13 Countries Where Travel Shaming Might Surprise You

4. India: Dress and Demeanor Matter

India’s cultural and regional diversity is vast, and so are its expectations around behavior. While urban centers are cosmopolitan, many regions—especially religious or rural ones—hold to conservative values around clothing, modesty, and interaction. Wearing revealing clothing at a temple, speaking dismissively of local customs, or refusing to remove shoes in sacred spaces can lead to visible disapproval. In a culture where respect and hospitality are paramount, returning the gesture is non-negotiable.