What to Wear in India as a Female Tourist (Style Guide & Packing List)
Are you preparing for an amazing vacation in India?
Navigating India’s intricate cultures, rich histories, and diverse landscapes is an experience like no other.
I visited the subcontinent of India for two weeks in September, and it was the most eclectic and culture-stocking country I’ve ever been to.
One of the most crucial preparations for a trip to India is deciding what to wear, especially for female travelers. I remember spending months leading up to my trip researching what to wear while traveling in India.
Dressing respectfully while keeping a hint of your personal style can be a delicate balance. This post will help you choose the perfect wardrobe for your India adventure!
Summary
Style Tips for Your Trip to India:
India’s fashion standards are deeply rooted in tradition and modesty. Here are some style tips to keep you chic and culturally respectful:
- Don the Bright Colors of India. India is known for its vibrant color palette; you’ll blend right in by wearing bright, fun hues. Not only does it show your appreciation for local customs, but it also makes for great photos against the diverse backdrops of India.
- Accessorize! Accessorizing can add a personal touch to your outfits.
- Choose Sensible Footwear. India’s streets and alleyways can be unpaved and unpredictable, so ditch the high heels in favor of comfortable sandals, flats, or sneakers. Your feet will thank you.
- Layer Up for Any Weather. India’s climates are as varied as its cuisine, so dressing in layers ensures you’re prepared for any possibilities. Light clothing that breathes is perfect for combating the heat while layering it with a light rain jacket is perfect for when an unexpected downpour occurs!
- Dress Like You Normally Do, While Erring on the Side of Conservative. While India is slowly becoming more liberal, modest dressing is still recommended—but it’s different from other conservative countries. For example, many salwar suits display bearbacks, midriffs, and shoulders. But it’s a big no-no for cleavage and showing off your legs above the knees.
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Guidelines for Deciding on What to Wear in India:
- Opt for natural fabrics: They breathe better and are less prone to odors.
- Avoid clothing with offensive messages or provocative imagery: This is basic good etiquette anywhere you travel.
- Consider the local culture for each area you visit: The dress code could be rather different in Rajasthan compared to a seaside town in Kerala.
- Keep comfort in mind: Indian cities can involve a lot of walking, so your choice of footwear and clothing should keep you comfortable throughout the day..
Pro Tip: Don’t bring anything you don’t want ruined while on your trip to India. In many Asian countries, including India, your clothes get ravaged when you have them washed in your hotel or laundry mat. I honestly have no idea why, but every time I got my clothes laundered, they felt starchy, and the color faded each time.
What Should Female Tourists Wear in India?
The dress code for female travelers in India can vary. What you can wear largely depends on your location and planned activities.
Here’s a rundown of some common questions I often get when deciding what to wear in India:
Is it okay for tourists to wear salwar suits and sarees?
In certain parts of India, wearing a salwar suit or saree as a female tourist is not only acceptable but can also be the ideal way to immerse in the local culture, particularly if attending a traditional event or festival. These garments are comfortable, beautiful, and come in various styles to suit any occasion.
Is it okay to wear shorts in India?
Shorts are not commonly worn by Indian women in public, especially outside beach areas or major cities where a more cosmopolitan attitude prevails. That said, you’re likely to have more leeway in tourist hotspots. For example, here’s a picture of me wearing shorts in Ranthambore National Park.
Is it okay to wear leggings in India?
Yes. But you know how there’s a difference between leggings and a T-shirt and leggings and a sports bra? Lean toward the former. Leggings are totally acceptable if dressed with a bit of common sense. In India, you will frequently see women wearing leggings, but they will be wearing long, loose-fitting shirts to cover their bums and womanly curves.
Can I wear sleeveless tops in India?
The short answer is yes. Sleeveless tops are generally acceptable in big cities like Delhi and Mumbai and beach cities like Goa or Kerala. If you’re visiting religious sites or smaller towns where more traditional dress is expected, throw on a scarf or cardigan.
Is it okay to wear crop tops in India?
Believe it or not, crop tops are widely accepted in many parts of India. I personally liked pairing my crop tops with high-waisted palazzo pants, but you’ll also see them paired with high-waisted jeans, maxi skirts, and sarees.
What should I wear when doing yoga in India?
When practicing yoga, comfort takes precedence. Pack breathable athletic wear with good stretch for those early morning asanas. For tops, I went with my trusty sports bra with either a comfy tank top or a t-shirt over it. For the bottoms, I wore either leggings or harem pants with a lot of stretch.
Palazzo pants are fine, too; just keep in mind they will ride up your legs in some poses!
Dressing for the Season: India’s Varied Climates
India’s weather can be as unpredictable as it is enjoyable, so it’s crucial to pack with the current season in mind. Here are some tips for dressing in India’s extremes:
What to Wear in India During Summer
Summers can be scorching, so pack airy fabrics like cotton and linen to keep cool. Loose, flowy dresses and breathable tops are ideal for managing the heat. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses for those intense rays.
What to Wear in India During Winter
Winters in India’s northern regions can be quite chilly, so layer up with warm sweaters and shawls. If you’re venturing into the snow-capped Himalayas, pack thermals. A rain jacket is also essential for the monsoon season.
Packing List for Your Trip to India:
Basic Essentials:
- Baggy Trousers, Palazzo Pants, or Harlem Pants: These are perfect for traveling and exploring, offering both comfort and style.
- T-Shirts and Tank Tops: Essential for layering and enduring the Indian sun.
- Flowy Dresses: A go-to for both comfort and cultural appropriateness.
- Sweater: For chilly evenings or high-altitude locations.
- Long-Sleeved Thin Top or Cover-Up: To throw on when visiting religious sites or as the sun sets.
- Athletic Wear for Yoga: Comfortable, moisture-wicking materials are ideal for morning or evening sessions.
- Shawls: A versatile addition to your wardrobe, use it as a scarf, head wrap, or to cover your shoulders.
- Sandals and Flip Flops: Easy to slip on for temple visits and sandy beaches.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sneakers: For long days of sightseeing and exploration.
Navigating the Monsoon: Rain Gear
- Rain Jacket: A lightweight, packable rain jacket is a non-negotiable item, especially if your trip aligns with the monsoon season.
- Umbrella or Poncho: Stay dry during those unexpected downpours.
Heading to the Beaches? Don’t Forget These Essentials:
If your itinerary includes the sun-drenched shores of Goa or Kerala, here’s what you should pack:
- Swimsuit: High-waisted bikini bottoms or a one-piece swimsuit are more culturally acceptable. But if you’re in Goa, don’t sweat it. It’s a tourist hot spot, so you’ll see various types of bathing suits and bikinis.
- Cover-Up: A long sarong or tunic to wear over your swimsuit.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the intense Indian sun.
- Hats and Sunglasses: Keep those UV rays at bay.
India is a treasure trove of experiences, and your attire should complement these adventures. By using some common sense and utilizing this packing list, you’ll be ready to enjoy this incredible country in
style. While fashion choices can be a form of expression, they should also show respect for the local culture.
With the right clothes in your suitcase, you’ll blend in with the vibrant streets of India, all while feeling your best. Safe travels and happy packing!
Reina Conboy
I am a full-time traveling registered nurse, fitness enthusiast, and plant-based nutrition expert. Every morning I wake up intending to bring awareness of the importance of health and spiritual wellness, especially to the traveling community. This blog is designed to bring you travel and health advice while sprinkling in some fun life stories.
