India is a vast country with different customs in different parts of the country. You may find the metros more liberal and cosmopolitan, whereas in the hinter land you may come across various unusual customs preserved over thousands of years. You may also find that, in general, the attitude to life is very different from that in the western world.

An irresisteble magnet for visitors through the ages, where people are friendly and are known for hospitality. India continues to lay the red carpet for tourist from all over the world.  Nevertheless, certain situations may arise where deviating from the accepted customs will be considered as a sign of disrespect. These are the situations you need to know about.

• Always remove your shoes before entering a holy place - a temple, gurudwara or a mosque. Gurudwaras (Sikh temples) will also require you to cover your head. A good rule is to  dress conservatively while visiting a place of worship.

• Feet and the left hand are considered impure so do not touch any holy object with these. It is also considered impolite to give, take or point at anything with the left hand.

• Refrain from using the left hand incase you are required to eat with your fingers at any place.

• Public show of affection is generally disapproved, more so in smaller cities and villages.

• Avoid wearing clothes that bare your arms and legs - in the small cities and villages in particular. Metros are fairly permissive in this particular respect.

• Pay attention to instructions written on notice boards at holy places. These will inform you of what items may be inappropriate e.g. 'leather objects not allowed', 'cameras not allowed', 'menstruating women not allowed' and so on.

• Tipping is customary, though not mandatory. At restaurants, the usual rule of 10 per cent of the bill amount applies.

• Bargaining for a lesser price is a fairly common practice, especially at local bazaars and for fare with rickshaw and auto drivers(if not paying by meter reading). However, recognised and larger shops and departmental stores usually charge fixed prices.