India is color, chaos, temples, palaces, chai on every corner and the Taj Mahal looking exactly as good as it does in pictures. It’s also busy, dusty and a lot for your senses, in the best way.
So this is a pack-modest-and-breathable trip: loose clothes that cover, shoes you can slip off at temples and a solid little health kit.
We built this list for our India for Holi trip and our Deep End of India trip, but it works for any trip to northern India.
India weather: what to expect
Our trips run in the cooler months, which is the best time to go.
March is warm and dry. Days are usually in the 80s to low 90s °F (high 20s to low 30s °C), and evenings are pleasant.
November is lovely. Days are warm, often in the 70s to low 80s °F (20s °C), and mornings and evenings are cool, especially in Rishikesh. Delhi can be hazy and smoggy this time of year.
Translation: breathable clothes, one warm layer and something to cover your nose and mouth on smoggy days.
What to wear
For everyday exploring
India is conservative, and modest clothes really do help you feel more comfortable and get less attention.
- Loose, breathable pants
- Long tunics, kurtas or tops that cover your shoulders and hips
- Midi or maxi skirts and dresses with sleeves
- A big scarf or dupatta (cover-up, sun shade and temple scarf)
- A light cardigan or jacket for cool evenings and air-conditioned rides
Bonus: shopping for kurtas in Jaipur or Delhi is half the fun, so leave some room.
For temples
Cover your shoulders and knees, and bring a scarf for your hair in Sikh temples and some Hindu temples. You’ll take your shoes off a lot, so socks are your friend on hot or dusty floors.
For Holi
On our Holi trip, you’ll throw color. Wear white or light clothes you’re happy to never wear again, and rub coconut oil on your skin and hair beforehand so the color washes out more easily. Sunglasses help protect your eyes, and keep your phone in a zip bag.
For Rishikesh and the ashram day
On our Deep End of India trip, bring comfortable, loose clothes you can sit and move in, and a warm layer for cool mornings by the Ganges.
Shoes: bring two pairs
- Everyday: comfortable sneakers or walking shoes for long days and uneven streets.
- Easy on, easy off: sandals or slip-ons for temples, hotels and hot days.
Pack a pair of socks in your daypack for temple floors.
Health and toiletries
- Stomach meds, rehydration salts and probiotics if you take them
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes (you will use them constantly)
- A face mask for dusty or smoggy days
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Pain relievers, band-aids and blister care
- Tissues or a little toilet paper
- Your preferred period products
- Prescription meds in their original packaging, plus extra days
Talk to your doctor or a travel clinic about vaccines before you go. Travel insurance is required for this trip.
Electronics, documents and money
- Universal adapter (India uses Type C, D and M plugs, 230V)
- A power bank for long days
- Extra storage for photos
Most nationalities need a visa for India, and the e-visa takes time, so apply well before you go. Bring your passport with at least six months of validity.
Cards work in hotels and bigger shops. Markets, tips and small purchases need cash in rupees. Bring a debit card for ATMs and a backup card stored separately.
What to leave at home
- Shorts, crop tops and anything tight or see-through
- Expensive jewelry
- Too many outfits (you will want to buy clothes there)
- A hair dryer or high-voltage styling tools
FAQ: packing for India
How modest do I really need to dress?
Cover your shoulders, chest and knees, and keep clothes loose. You’ll feel more comfortable and get far less attention.
Can I wear leggings?
Yes, with a long tunic or kurta that covers your hips. That’s how lots of Indian women wear them.
What should I wear for Holi?
Old white or light-colored clothes you don’t mind ruining, sunglasses, and coconut oil on your skin and hair.
Do I need hiking boots?
No. Comfortable sneakers and a pair of sandals cover everything.
What luggage should I bring?
A rolling suitcase or a soft duffel both work. We take domestic flights, so check the baggage allowance and leave room for shopping.
Is laundry available?
Yes, at most hotels, and it’s usually fast and cheap. Use it often and pack less.
The bottom line
Pack loose, modest layers, a scarf and a good health kit, and leave room in your bag for kurtas. India will do the rest.
Want to go? See our India for Holi trip, our Deep End of India trip, or browse all our upcoming trips.
