India is a land of diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences. While most tourists stick to the usual sightseeing spots, those who truly want to experience India like a local need to go beyond the obvious. From staying in homestays to exploring hidden markets, here are 11 unique ways to immerse yourself in the heart of India.
1. Stay in a Homestay Instead of a Hotel
One of the best ways to experience India like a local is by staying in a homestay. Unlike hotels, homestays allow you to live with a local family, eat home-cooked meals, and learn about their way of life. Popular destinations with excellent homestay options include Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
2. Travel by Train and Local Transport
Skip the flights and luxury cars. Take a train journey to witness India’s incredible landscapes and vibrant train culture. Traveling in a sleeper class or a general coach will help you experience India like a local while interacting with people from all walks of life. Buses, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws are also great ways to explore cities.
3. Eat at Local Dhabas and Street Stalls
Ditch fancy restaurants and savor authentic Indian flavors at roadside dhabas and street food stalls. Whether it’s a vada pav in Mumbai, golgappas in Delhi, or idlis in Chennai, these culinary delights let you experience India like a local through taste.
4. Explore Traditional Markets Instead of Malls
Shopping at local markets is a great way to support artisans and small businesses. Visit places like Jaipur’s Johari Bazaar, Kolkata’s New Market, and Delhi’s Chandni Chowk to buy handicrafts, textiles, and spices while soaking in the local vibe.
5. Celebrate Festivals with Locals
Nothing brings out India’s true spirit like its festivals. Join in the celebrations of Holi in Mathura, Diwali in Varanasi, or Pongal in Tamil Nadu to experience India like a local and understand the deep-rooted traditions that make the country so vibrant.
6. Take a Village Tour
Many organizations offer rural tourism experiences where you can stay in villages and witness traditional lifestyles. Places like Spiti Valley, Rajasthan’s Bishnoi village, and Kerala’s backwater villages provide an authentic way to experience India like a local.
7. Learn a Regional Art or Craft
India is home to various traditional arts like Madhubani painting, Kathak dance, and block printing. Enrolling in a short workshop not only helps preserve these art forms but also lets you engage with local artisans directly.
8. Join a Walking Tour
Walking tours, especially those led by locals, offer an in-depth look into a city’s history and culture. Whether it’s Old Delhi’s heritage walk or Mumbai’s Dharavi tour, these guided experiences allow you to see the city from a different perspective.
9. Volunteer for a Social Cause
Giving back to the community is a fulfilling way to experience India like a local. Many NGOs and organizations allow travelers to volunteer in education, wildlife conservation, or rural development, providing a deeper connection to the country.
10. Stay in Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Stays
Eco-lodges, farm stays, and sustainable resorts offer a great way to travel responsibly while staying close to nature. These stays promote local culture, organic farming, and responsible tourism, ensuring you leave a positive impact.
11. Take a Cooking Class
Indian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and learning how to cook local dishes from a native chef is an experience you’ll cherish forever. From masala chai to biryani, a cooking class can help you recreate India’s magic in your own kitchen.
By following these tips, you can go beyond typical tourist activities and experience India like a local in a meaningful way. Whether it’s through food, transport, or cultural immersion, each experience will bring you closer to the heart of this incredible country.