Avoid Stomach Upset in India: Tips to Stay Healthy on Your Trip
When you’re exploring India, the last thing you want is a stomach upset, a common travel issue caused by unfamiliar bacteria, water, or food handling. Also known as traveler’s diarrhea, it’s not a sign you’re doing something wrong—it’s just something most first-timers face unless they know the simple rules. The good news? You can avoid it almost entirely with a few smart choices.
Most cases come from three things: water, street food, and hygiene. Tap water in India isn’t safe to drink, even in big cities. Bottled water is cheap and widely available, but always check the seal. Ice in drinks? Skip it unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water. Street food gets a bad rap, but it’s also where the best flavors are. The trick isn’t to avoid it—it’s to pick the right stalls. Look for busy ones. High turnover means fresh food. If locals are lining up, you’re in the right spot. Watch how the vendor handles money and food—no bare hands touching both. And always go for food that’s cooked fresh and served hot.
Some foods are safer than others. Roti, rice, and boiled vegetables are low-risk. Avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruits, and dairy left out in the heat. Yogurt is fine if it’s sealed and refrigerated. If you’re in a place like Rishikesh or Goa, you’ll see plenty of cafes catering to tourists—they often use filtered water and follow better hygiene. That’s your sweet spot for trying new dishes without risk. Don’t forget hand sanitizer. Use it before eating, even if you’re just grabbing a snack from a market. Your stomach will thank you.
India’s food culture is rich, bold, and unforgettable. You don’t need to eat like a local to enjoy it—you just need to eat smart. The posts below give you real, practical advice from travelers who’ve been sick, learned the hard way, and now know exactly what works. From what to order in Delhi’s street markets to how to handle digestive issues on the road, you’ll find clear, no-fluff tips that actually help. No guesswork. Just what to do—and what to skip—to keep your trip on track.
