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Phi Phi Island Thailand – 5 Breath-Taking Adventure Sports

Phi Phi Island Thailand – 5 Breath-Taking Adventure Sports

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Phi Phi Island, Thailand - 5 Breath-taking Adventure Sports

Are you a thrill-seeker and do you love the adrenaline rush in your body? If yes, then the Phi Phi Island Thailand can turn into your next dream-spot! This South-Asian archipelago is a group of six islands with some astonishing picturesque scenery and a chill hipster vibe. It’s the same island from Dicaprio’s movie, The Beach!
The bewitching turquoise waters, the lovely seascapes, the bonny golden beaches and impressive rock sites attract about 2 million tourists every year. You will undoubtedly love the sea gazing, sun-basking, amazing Thai massages but, there is a lot more to experience when it comes to the Phi-Phi.
These stunning islands, with its waters and rock sites, offer an exciting range of adventure sports that can thrill all your senses. Indeed, water sports are one of the best things to do on the phi-phi islands.

Phi Phi Island, Thailand

How to Reach Phi Phi Island Thailand? 

Phi-Phi Islands can be easily reached by ferry from Phuket. Ferries and speed boats from Phuket to Phi-Phi are very frequent. But, there are many organised tours from Bangkok and Phuket Phi-Phi which can be convenient. You need not worry much about the logistics as Phi Phi Island is well connected to the mainland. 

What are the best adventure sports activities on Phi Phi Island Thailand? 

Phi Phi Island, just like any popular island destination is extremely popular for water sports and adventure sports. However, there are certain adventure sports that make Phi Phi Island special. Let me enlighten you with my list below.

 

1. Rock Climbing on the Phi Phi Island Thailand

Phi Phi Islands offers multiple possibilities for this amazing sport.
The Islands have various impressive rock-climbing sites which include The Tonsai Tower, Hin Tak, and many more. The Tonsai Towers have always been the most engaging and popular of all.
The limestone cliffs in the Krabi province offer panoramic views that make it worth a visit. 
Professional companies like the Spider Monkey and Deaf Gecko offer proper guided activities and provide all necessary equipment for the climb. Their trained instructors make rock climbing on the Phi-Phi Islands easy and safe. The climbing sites and the routes are well maintained to avoid any kind of mishappenings. Some climbing companies offer night climbings to double your thrill and excitement. The full moon, the enchanting Phi Phi view and adventure-A perfect combo! Isn’t it?

Rock Climbing Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Rock Climbing Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

2. Cliff Jumping on the Phi Phi Island

This sport is for only the daring hearts. Jumping in the blue, from a height of more than 60 meters is surely not for the faint-hearted. Are you still not convinced? Watch this video and tell us what do you feel, excitement or fear or both! 

Cliff jumping is an exciting sport, thrilling enough to revive your soul. To fall freely into the arms of gravity is one of the most exhilarating experiences one can have.

There are many areas for cliff jumping on the Phi-Phi Islands. Are your adrenaline pumps not prepared? You can try cliff-jumping from smaller cliffs of 6 meters to 8 meters or the higher ones of 20 metres or more if you’re looking for a real escapade. Professional guidance and proper mentorship are some prerequisites before trying this hair-raising sport. Many tour agents can guide you for ensuring overall safety. 

Trials without proper guidance can cause terrible accidents as it’s one of the most daring adventure sports on the Phi-Phi Island


3. Snorkel with the Sharks 

Snorkeling with Sharks. Sounds adventurous, right? In the crystal clear water of the Phi Phi Island, it is a beautiful experience, but doing it around sharks can make it even more exciting. Phi Phi Island Thailand has some of the best snorkeling sites on the planet!

What is Snorkeling?

Snorkeling is a water sport that involves swimming on its surface with necessary equipment such as life jackets and swimming pipes.

What can be more fierce than floating with sharks? There are many shark points on the island that can offer you this opportunity. Hin Phae is the most popular where you can easily spot dozens of the blacktip sharks snorkeling around you. Popular clownfishes are also spotted here.

Snorkeling Phi Phi Island
Snorkeling, Phi Phi Island

4. Scuba Diving 

Who has not heard of Scuba Diving? Almost all beach destinations in Thailand offer scuba-diving, but the experience is somewhat different on the Phi-Phi Islands, Thailand. What makes Phi Phi Islands most popular is its marine culture and seascapes, which makes it a well-known site for scuba diving.Diving into the mysterious marine world is exhilarating, but at the same time, the relaxation it provides is incomparable.

The crystal clear waters, coral reefs, fishes, turtles, and a variety of other colourful marine creatures are a rejoice to the eyes. However, it must be done under complete professional guidance. It can be riskier for children below eight years of age. Hence, it’s preferable to avoid children from trying it. Some notable scuba diving locations in Phi Phi islands are the Bida Nay and Phi Phi Ley.

Kayaking Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Scuba Diving, Phi Phi Island, Thailand

5. Kayaking on the Phi Phi Island 

If you want some ME-Time to plunge into your reveries while exploring the beauty of the Phi Phi, then kayaking can be a great sport to try. You can admire the deep limestone caves, the mesmerising sea caves, and the colourful coastlines on your kayak paddling it on your own. You may also hire a guide to paddle for you in case you are not comfortable doing it. There are no age restrictions or strict safety measures to be followed.

It’s an easy sport for everyone-the young and the elder. Kayaking is a lot of fun and can be tried in all seasons. Rowing through the emerald Waters, sunbathing, and feeling the fresh air against your skin helps you connect with nature in a whole new way. Late afternoon is the best time for kayaking here, as the view is lovely and there is less crowd. So, you can peacefully enjoy your kayak adventure all on your own!

Kayaking Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Kayaking Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

I am sure this blog post covers all-important adventure sports on the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand. Have you ever tried these adventure sports? Let us know about your experience in the comments below. 

Make sure to pin these Phi Phi Island Pinterest Templates 

Phi Phi Island Thailand
Phi Phi Island Thailand

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Travel Blogger @ My Nomadic Lifestyle - Sanya Singh

Sanya Singh

Sanya is a passionate writer who is dedicated to becoming a travel blogger. Known for beautifully curating her imagination into creative blogs, Sanya aspires to become a renowned blogger one day!

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Fantastic Things to do in Ladakh – Ladakh Itinerary

Fantastic Things to do in Ladakh – Ladakh Itinerary

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Fantastic Things to Do in Ladakh - Ladakh Itinerary

When it comes to travelling, India never fails to impress its visitors. Leh Ladakh is one such destination which can excite the traveller in you! Leh Ladakh is located in the Union Territory of Ladakh in north India. It is nestled between the Great Himalayas and Karakoram mountains, the tallest mountains in the world. Leh Ladakh undoubtedly tops the list of every Indian individual to wander around with friends (second only to the beaches of Goa), and it deserves the spot because it is simply unforgettable. I would like to introduce you to some fantastic things to do in Ladakh!

This blog will be posted with a Ladakh itinerary towards the end so you can plan your trip without the assistance of a travel agent.

Fantastic Things to Do In Ladakh 

You can’t ignore any of the Ladakh attractions which we have mentioned below. These places are unrealistically beautiful and I can bet that your Ladakh trip would be one of the best trips ever!

Nubra Valley Ladakh
Nubra Valley Ladakh

 

1. Visit the famous Pangong Lake 

Pangong Tso roughly translates to ‘high grassland lake.’  The highest saltwater lake in the world is indeed a sight to behold. At a distance of 185 kilometres from Leh, this lake is so clear that the pebbles at the bottom are visible. What’s more incredible is that the lake seems to change colour every half an hour or so, appearing to be bright blue, teal, green, or even shades of red at times. Camping at the bank of the lake for a night is an excellent experience, although chilly. A bonfire will make it perfect. For all the Bollywood lovers out there, Pangong Lake is also the place where the last scene of the popular Bollywood movie 3 Idiots was shot; thus, you can spot cute yellow scooters placed near the lake for your little photoshoot!

Fun Tip:  Try to stop your vehicle on your way from Leh to Pangong at a meadow to spot Himalayan marmots. You can find hundreds of those beaver-like animals running in and out of burrows.

Best things to do in Ladakh
Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Src: https://bit.ly/2LdvK2D

2. Understanding the mechanics of Alchi Dam, the highest dam on the planet

The Alchi Dam was built in 2006, and believe it or not, the most amazing thing about Alchi Dam is not the fact that it is the highest located dam in the world but that with a permit given by India’s Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) after checking your IDs at the entrance, you can explore the inside of that dam, accompanied by a guide who explains about this marvelous creation, and it’s functioning. 

This is extremely rare, considering that you are not allowed within a 1-kilometre radius of the dams in other Indian cities like Mumbai, or any major city that I know of. If you go in the afternoon, you may be lucky enough to see a full circle rainbow (aka Glory) too, which is formed by the dam’s water sprinkling over the whole area as droplets, allowing sunlight to pass through it, when the water is released. There is a popular monastery by the same name of Alchi, however, that’s for you to explore on your Ladakh Tour!

3. Enjoy the snow at Khardung La Pass 

One of the most memorable things to do in Ladakh is to visit the World’s Second-Highest Motorable Road at 5602 meters (18380 feet) above sea level (an addition to the long list of highest things ☺.) This road lies on the Silk Route, the trade route from the Indian subcontinent to the Middle East via which shawls, saffron, opium, tobacco, and silk were transported. It is now used to carry supplies to the Siachen Glaciers. During World War II, there was an attempt to transfer war material to China through this route. 
The drive through the snow-capped mountains is life-altering. When you reach up there, you can have a snowball fight, and if lady Fortune is in your favour, experience snowfall. Don’t forget to buy a delicious plate of momos from the Army’s canteen present at the top.

Note: Khardung La Pass remains closed from mid-September till mid-May, so plan your trip accordingly!

Khardung La Pass
Khardung La Pass, Highest Motorable Road in the World

4. Explore the Hemis Monastery 

Ladakh or in fact, the Himalayan mountains are popular for their incredible monasteries. Out of the several monasteries that Ladakh has to offer, Hemis is the most impressive. Built before the 11th century, this monastery, due to its hidden location behind the mountains, is the only one that has never been plundered, making it the wealthiest monastery in India. The near life-sized murals of fierce deities on walls, elegant composite pillars, metal sculptures, and protruding balconies are admirable. A room whose walls depict the life of Buddha painted in chronological order shouldn’t be missed.
Other monasteries that you might want to visit are Lamayuru Monastery (oldest in Ladakh) and Thiksey Monastery (largest).

Fantastic Things to do in Ladakh
Thiskey Monastery Ladakh

5. River Raft at the Confluence of Indus and Zanskar River: 

Who could imagine that you could possibly enjoy a watersport at one of the highest points of India? At the confluence, the mixture of the bluish Zanskar with the greenish Indus creates an enchanting landscape. One of the many things to do in Ladakh is to set out on a river rafting adventure in the Confluence from the Alchi Monastery. Rafting route here is one of the roughest in India. The cost is about 1500 INR per person. It would be advisable to take the shorter rafting route as it is safer. Just make sure the weather conditions are decent to avoid mishaps. 

Other tourist attractions nearby are the Hall of Fame(museum/ war memorial with weapons, history exhibits and souvenir shop run by the Indian Army), Guru Pathar Sahib Gurudwara (pilgrim spot) and the Magnetic Hill (which creates an optical illusion of objects rolling uphill when they are in fact rolling downhill).

Rivers in ladakh
Rivers in ladakh

6. Enjoy the company of Ladakh’s unique fauna:

Besides being a kaleidoscope of colorful landscape and captivating monasteries, Ladakh is home to an impressive variety of animals. From spotting Himalayan marmots to being spellbound looking at the wild horses running on grasslands, looking out for animals is one of the interesting things to do in Ladakh, which makes the place all the more picturesque. You can visit the Nubra Valley to hitch a ride on a Bactrian Camel (double-humped camel) and get to pet a yak near Pangong. 

Spoiler Alert: I will be discussing how I attempted to plant a mango tree in Ladakh in my next post. Stay Tuned! 

 

Weather in Ladakh 

The weather in Ladakh is quite harsh. It has an average annual temperature of 5.2 degrees Celsius, with the hottest month being July and the coldest January, when the temperature is around -9 degrees Celsius and the annual rainfall of 103 mm. October is the driest month with 3 mm of rainfall and August is the wettest with 16 mm. Make sure to pack ample of woolen clothes and other winterwear, since this is going to be chillier than your idle Swiss Holiday!

7-Day Ladakh Itinerary  

This is a perfect itinerary to explore everything in the charming terrains of Ladakh. Your itinerary will look something like this:

Day 1: Arrive into ladakh

This will be your first day. Ladakh is notoriously known for lack of Oxygen Supply due to high altitude. Let your lungs adapt to the climate and do not indulge in any strenuous activities. So all I can advise you to do is to rest!

Day 2: Proceed to Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass

Nubra Valley is one of the most picturesque regions in India. Let Ladakh welcome you with one of its gems. A drive or a camel ride via Khardung La Pass cannot make it better!

Day 3: Spend the evenings at one of the markets

Your Ladakh Trip is incomplete without purchasing any souvenirs. Explore the markets at your own pace. We recommend you to visit the Tibetan Market for some amazing Buddhist themed wares.

Day 4: River Rafting

Spend your fourth-day river rafting on the confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers. It is a mesmerising experience. Spend the rest of your day visiting Guru Pathat Sahib Gurudwara, Magnetic Hill and Ladakh Hall of Fame.

Day 5: Pangong Lake

You cannot miss Pangong Lake. You must dedicate one full day for this natural marvel! Have packed lunch, photograph nature, and have a quick bite at the army cafeteria. During winters, you can also try ice hockey and ice skating.

Day 6: Visit some of the best Buddhist monasteries in India

Ladakh is known for some of the best Buddhist Monasteries in India, with breathtaking views and a culture of inner peace. I recommend you to visit, Hemis Monastery, Thiskey Monastery and Shanti Stupa.

Day 7: Alchi Village

Admire the rich and unique Ladakhi culture at Alchi Village. You can buy some more souvenirs. Then, head over to Alchi Dam, about which we have already praised above. End your day at the Alchi Monastery.

Day 8: Departure

Make sure to pin these Ladakh Pinterest Templates 

Best Things to do in Ladakh
Best Things to do in Ladakh

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Siya Gupta

Siya Gupta is a 17 year old student living in Mumbai. Writing and travelling are two of her numerous interests. When she is not swamped with studies, you can find her debating, reading and dancing.

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You can’t miss the Old Bridge of Mostar – 5 Incredible things to do in Mostar

You can’t miss the Old Bridge of Mostar – 5 Incredible things to do in Mostar

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You can't miss the Old Bridge of Mostar - 5 Incredible things to do in Mostar

Disrupted by a history of intense conflicts and disharmonising revolutions, the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina has had a dreadful past, with stories filled with violence, bloodshed, and misery. Apart from the heartbreaking and disorienting vibe in its air, this country does offer its tourists something pristine, something unique, and something that will leave you spellbound for your entire trip. I am talking about the quaint medieval city of Mostar! Located some 130 km from the Bosnian capital Sarajevo, you can reach Mostar buy an ultra-scenic train ride. The real deal starts when one arrives in Mostar, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. Geographically speaking, the whole touristy town is clustered around the iconic, super-enchanting Old Bridge of Mostar, aka Stari Most. 

Nonetheless, the city is beautifully layered on the steep banks of the Neretva River. This city is unique in every aspect providing an ultimate sensory experience. You can smell locally cooked Cevapi, experience the gruesome sight of bullet-ridden Bosnian buildings while feeling the riverside breeze, taste the ridiculously cheap gelatos as you hear the sound of professional divers plunging into blues of Neretva. Let me introduce you to this Bosnian city in detail.

Mostar on Map
Mostar on the Map of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Things to do in Mostar
Mostar As Seen From My Hostel

 

The Old Bridge of Mostar

Mostar, what today is all because of its Old Bridge, which is colloquially known as ‘Stari Most’.  As the central attraction, every tourist who visits Mostar frequents the Old Bride! The Ottomans gracefully constructed the Old Bridge in Mostar in the 16th century. It bears a rich Islamic look, the old bridge is an attention magnet in the town, or wait, let me call it a city since it’s the 5th largest in the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Stari Most had been proudly standing until the year 1993, when the Bosnian civil war took a toll on the entire country, destroying the bridge into ruins. Today, Mostar’s old bridge has been reconstructed to exact precision, gifting the city its medieval charm back. 

 

Fun Fact: Bosnia and Herzegovina is the only country in the world with 3 heads of states, with each representing their population groups, namely Croats, Serbs and Bosnians. 

The Old Bridge of Mostar
The Old Bridge of Mostar (Stari Most)

 

5 Incredible Things to do in Mostar

The Old Bridge of Mostar is the most popular place. However, the city is not limited to just one attraction. It is a stunning weekend getaway from bustling Sarajevo or over-exploited Dubrovnik. In fact, there are many day trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar which cover all chief attractions and highlights. Here is a list of other amazing things to do and see in Mostar: 

 

1. Enjoy the vibe at Old Town Mostar 

Very few places as welcoming as the Old Town, Mostar. It is also called čaršija; I would still prefer to call it Old Town and so would you. It is the place where I had the relished the best gelato, devoured my favourite fettuccine and cherished one of the most beautiful sceneries. The Old Town of Mostar is a dramatic ottoman market, leaving no opportunity to disappoint the tourists. Bargain with friendly handicraft vendors, glide along the slippery cobbled streets, explore every narrow street and savour the best local Cevapi!

The Old Town of Mostar rests along the Neretva River, on both ends of the Stari Most. The old Turkish architecture helps creating a beautiful vibe in the city of Mostar. 

 

Old Town Mostar
The Bazaar at the Old Town of Mostar

2. Enjoy Mostar at Night 

Night sky turns Mostar into a fantasyland! The gloomy skies which reflect the moonlight on the cobbled pathways, hide the hustle and bustle of the daytime. The fading light from the watchtowers and restaurants make it a delight to walk in the Old Town of Mostar at night. Although you will find the shops and the bazaars closed, the silence speaks everything. The area is a delight to walk in, especially with your loved ones. Make sure to have dinner, at one of the restaurant terraces! The Old Bridge lights up impressively too. A word of caution – be aware of the pickpockets who are quite frequent in the Mostar.  

 

The Old Bridge of Mostar
The Guard Towers alongside the Stari Most
Mostar at Night
Old Town Mostar at Night

3. Hang Out at One of the Terraced Restaurants in Mostar

Mostar’s restaurants are fantastic and offer a great view of the old town and the Stari Most. It was a magical experience to eat Italian and Bosnian fusion delicacies in the silence of the night amidst the empowering reflections of Mostar’s Old Bride in the blue waters of Neretva. I dined at the restaurant Kulluk, which had a fantastic terrace side location with views to Stari Most. The food was scrumptious to the core! I would definitely recommend this place.  

 

Terraced Restaurants in Mostar
Terraced Restaurants in Mostar

4. Let the impressive Austro-Hungarian Architecture of Mostar Confuse you

Yes for real, Mostar is predominantly an Ottoman city, but let me inform you that it is surprising to see the equally appealing Austro-Hungarian influence in the city. Just beside the Old Town of Mostar on the west bank of the Neverta lies a large neighbourhood with post-medieval European architecture, mainly Austro-Hungarian. There are many high-end cafes clustered, welcoming you for a youthful sip of their iconic Bosnia Coffee or as the locals say bosanska kahva! I paid a visit to the   Metropolitan Cafeteria, and believe me their beverages were exceptional! However, besides a couple, I am not a big fan of cafes in Mostar. Keep reading to know why!

 

Best things to do in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzgovina
Spanish Square Mostar

5. Admire the Bridge Divers at the Stari Most (The Old Bridge of Mostar) 

Well, you must have heard all the praise about the Stari Most, but have I informed you about the unique sporty culture surrounding this monument? A group of professional divers (probably high on their adrenaline) showcase their skills by diving from the bridge into the Neretva, plunging into the icy cold waters from a height as high as 20 meters! What a laudable sight it is seeing these young men testing the extent of human endeavour. Tourists can try it too, but mind me, you are better off bargaining at the souvenir shops nearby! 

 

Hotels and Hostels in Mostar 

Like any other touristy region, even Mostar has numerous hotels and hostels. I enjoyed my stay at the hostel cum hotel StarMo and it can be noteworthy to include this place while planning your Mostar Trip! StarMo is a newly built ultramodern property featuring sparkling clean, and satisfying interiors. The location is pitch-perfect (if you do not mind a little walk uphill after having loads of Cevapi). Nonetheless, I would like to appreciate the service and the ambience at this property. 

You can also find other properties below. 

 

These were some most noteworthy places in Mostar. I had also been to Spanish Square and Mepa shopping mall. The quality of this shopping mall truly impressed me. 

 

StarMo Hostel Mostar
Hostel StarMo, Mostar

The Bottom Line 

Keeping aside all the impressive stuff, it is crucial to address this issue. I have a complaint for Mostar or in general the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ugly cigarette culture startles me! Every second step, you come across a typical Bosnian café where it is permitted to smoke indoors actively. Well, for me, active smoking is out of the question, I am not a big fan of passive smoking too! I failed to find a single café where I had a ‘no smoking’ board. In the shopping mall, there were regulations against smoking, but it was surprising to see how cafes overlooked those regulations and people were found to be conveniently smoking on a no smoking sign! 

Again, smoking is highly detrimental to your health, no matter how deeply it is infused in your culture, still, strictly refrain from it! 

 

 

Make sure to pin these Mostar Pinterest Templates 

5 incredible things to do in Mostar
5 incredible things to do in Mostar

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Travel Blogger @ My Nomadic Lifestyle - Amish Agarwal

Amish Agarwal

Amish is a Media Student in the Netherlands. His passion lies in curating amazing travel content, developing websites, and graphic designing. The best of all, he a part-time traveller with trips to over 25 countries!

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7 Mind-Blowing Culture Shock Examples From India!

7 Mind-Blowing Culture Shock Examples From India!

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7 Mind Blowing Culture Shock Examples from India You Must Know!

India, housing more than 1.3 billion people, is well known for its ethnic diversity. Each Indian state represents its social & cultural niche. This 8000-year-old civilization has a rich heritage as it is home to distinct races and religions. With its rich and intriguing history, splendid monuments, and geographical uniqueness, it is the queen’s crown in the heart of Asia. India has its discrete identity, whether we’re talking about its culture, artforms, cuisines, spices, dance, music, landscapes, or whatsoever. It looks like India is famous for tourism since it provides a wholesome of almost everything. Whether you are looking for mountain spots, beaches, a desert safari, adventure sports, or some eye-catching monuments, it’s all here! Undoubtedly, India can offer a great travelling experience, but at the same time, it can also impress you with a mindblowing set of Culture Shock Examples examples!

Thanks to these cultural shocks, for some immigrants, it is a challenge to live in India. 

 

1.Chaos, Cacophony & Stray Animals in India

When mentioning culture shock examples from India, the first thing that comes to my mind is the chaos and the cacophony on the bustling Indian streets. Stepping out in the open for the first time can be an awful and horrendous experience for travellers hailing from Western countries. 

Furthermore, the most unexpected thing an outsider will get to see on the roads are stray dogs, chickens, cats, and even cows. Yes, you read it right! People in India worship cows, and it cannot get crazier. In India, you can’t escape the vivid types of sounds which includes an over symphonious horn from the truck, the unique sounds by the vegetable vendors in lieu to attract more customers, and even the noise from the whistling cooking pans (also known as cookers) which are unique to India. I dare you to visit a typical street bazaar; the vivid noises are continuously going to hit your eardrums and wear out your auditory cortex.

As a result, in India, the traffic rules are the thing of the past; it’s not offensive to ceaselessly blow horns, and animals are welcomed in almost any corner. Therefore, before you head on for a tour to India, prepare yourself, enjoy the noise, appreciate the vibe and have fun with the locals, because I am sure you are going to miss this in your home country!

Culture Shock Examples From India
Indians share a special bond with cows – Owing to a large Hindu Population
Culture Shock Examples From India
Chaotic Indian Streets

2. Indian Clothes – The Indian way of dressing 

Just like the Kimono in Japan and ripped jeans in the United States, Indians, too, have their set of attire. In contrast to other Western countries, Indians still stick to their traditional attire. Except for some urbanised cities and towns, in many parts of India, almost all women prefer being draped in traditional clothing.

You will see women wrapped in Sarees, sometimes also with heavy bangles and jewels, even if there is scorching heat in the summer months. Honestly, the summer bikini culture has not impressed India. Even in the poshest areas of the hipster beach state of Goa, traditional attires are very common. Basically, as a woman, one needs to be covered in cloth, no matter what the season is! This is a sign of dignity in Indian culture. So, if you’re visiting some of the traditional Indian towns and you don’t want to breach the etiquette, or else prepare yourself to face some scornful eyes of the locals. 

Indian Dressing Style
An Indian Man in Traditional clothes – Kurta and Lungi

3. Stark Income Inequality 

India holds two worlds within its distinct boundaries, and both are entirely contrasting. One is a luxurious wealthy community while the other suffers from extreme poverty with limited to no hygiene facilities! On one side, you can’t stop relishing the ethnic richness, the striking landscapes, and the diverse culture of this incredible nation; on the other hand; you also cannot neglect the staggering heights of pollution and the poverty in the country.

Walking down the roads of Delhi or Mumbai, the two biggest cosmopolitan cities of India, you can have a clear glimpse of this unusual divide between both cultures. You will see magnificent skyscrapers facing the filthy and shabby slums, the resplendent shopping malls set up along the shoddy bustling bazaars, the same road filled with luxurious cars and also tattered rickshaws and beggars all over. Should we call this the nature of coexistence?

Culture Shock Examples From India
Income Inequality in India – Slums of Mumbai

image source: https://qz.com/india/1396785/drone-photos-capture-the-staggering-inequality-in-mumbai/

4. Indian Toilets

If you’re visiting India for the first time, the Indian Toilets can turn out to be an uninviting cultural shock. In many places, you’re going to find Indian style toilets consisting of a deep hole surrounded by slabs to rest your feet on. You can compare it to the Japanese style toilets. Moreover, you’re not going to find tissue-rolls in any of the toilets. Don’t worry, Indian toilets are well equipped with water sprays! A  water spray, comically known as ‘Bum Gun’ in various South Asian and Middle Eastern countries, is an essential sanitary tool! Rest, I won’t discuss, just experience it on your next trip, because ‘When in India, do as the Indians do!’ Likewise, be ready to use some of the most annoying washrooms on the planet if you decide to travel by Indian trains. 

Nonetheless, for a sigh of relief, high-end hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls are now being supplied with toilet paper to cater to the demand of Westerners. 

5. The Indian People

The next culture shock example from India that can come up to you in are the Indians themselves. They are very cordial, hospitable, and welcoming people. They’ll be genuinely curious and interested in your culture and lifestyle. You will be treated much like a celebrity gaining a lot of extra attention; people asking you to pose for selfies and they may load you with a lot of undesired interrogation. In the beginning, you may find it weird and uncomfortable, but you need to know that it’s just a friendly approach from their side. Be prepared to be welcomed with flower garlands at airports, hotels, or restaurants.

Also, privacy and personal space are not something Indians care much about, but don’t blame it all on them; it’s a country with 1.3 billion people!

The Indian culture is all about togetherness, expansive families, and the common phrase they adhere to, ‘Unity in Diversity.’ You better adjust according to the whims and fancies of Indians!

Indian People and their culture
Indian Children

6. Spirituality in India

Our list of culture shock examples from India is incomplete without mentioning about spirituality! We can discuss endlessly when it comes to the nature of Indian Spirituality. India is already known for its spiritual and religious side, with a large majority of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, and various communities of Christians and Jews. Every avenue (or chowk as they say in India) has one small religious shrine. Various colonies with Islamic flags add color to streets, while predominantly Catholic areas such as Goa and Pondicherry have their Indo-Western charm. The Indians see God in everything. You may see Indians worshipping trees, stones, animals, rivers, and doing different rituals around them. 

Culture Shock Examples From India
A Hindu Man during an ongoing ritual in Varanasi

Hinduism, which is followed by more than 70% of the Indian population, has its roots in India. There are more than a thousand deities in Hinduism with millions of temples and shrines all over the country. You must get off your footwear before entering any of them. Not doing so can get you in trouble!
Hinduism is the mother of many sub-religions, such as Jainism and Sikhism. Visit the famous Golden Temple in Amritsar to see the largest communal kitchen on the planet, serving more than 100000 people at no cost every single day, all in the name of God! This is how dominant spiritual culture in India can get! 

Many people in India have a lot of faith in the occult and the supernatural. We get to see many such practitioners called the tantrics, in cities like Varanasi, Mayang, etc.

Golden Temple Amritsar - Indian Culture
Golden Temple in India, Amritsar
Islamic Namaaz at the popular Jama Masjid in Delhi

7.Indian Food


Indian cuisine is as colourful as its culture. Typically it is loaded with spices, but mild variants are available throughout the country.  Each state has its own set of signature dishes. From deserts such as Rasgulla and Mishti Doi in Bengal to authentic curries of the North. Wait, you can’t ignore the lip-smacking street-food of Mumbai and the much popular seafood from Kerala. There is a large variety, but it is this diversity that unities the entire country. 

Many have a misconception that all Indians are vegetarians. Let me tell you, 70% of Indians love meat. There are hundreds of scrumptious meaty dishes you can munch on. The famous Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Chicken, and aromatic Fish Curries, all originated from India. 

As far as the culture shock is concerned, initially,  the westerners may find some food items to be very spicy.  Many tourists have to deal with minor stomach issues in the initial days of their Indian trip, but eventually, they end up loving those flavours.

Did you know that the popular Indian Desert called Jalebi is widely eaten in Egypt? To know more, read my experience with Egyptian food here.

Culture Shock Examples From India
Popular Indian Desert – Jalebi
Culture Shock Examples From India
Indian Comfort Food – Chicken Tikka Masala

I am sure your home country might have its own list of culture shock examples. Comment below about them!
I hope this list helps you cope up with the quirky side of this incredible country. India is enchanting and undoubtedly an amazing place to visit, but these are a few things that can make your journey a little unpleasant if you are not aware enough. So, do keep them in mind before you plan a trip to this holy and beautiful land.

Make sure to pin these Indian Culture Shock Examples Templates below!

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Travel Blogger @ My Nomadic Lifestyle - Sanya Singh

Sanya Singh

Sanya is a passionate writer who is dedicated to becoming a travel blogger. Known for beautifully curating her imagination into creative blogs, Sanya aspires to become a renowned blogger one day!

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My Bizzare Flight Experience! – Ukraine International Airlines Review

My Bizzare Flight Experience! – Ukraine International Airlines Review

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This Bizzare thing Actually Happened On my Flight! - Ukraine International Airlines Review

I always tend to take the off-beaten path, I get to discover the unknown, unravel mysteries and experience magic. This holds true until I decided to take an off-beaten flight experience. Yes, I planned a journey from Amsterdam to New Delhi aboard Europe’s worst-rated full-service carrier. I am talking about ‘Ukraine International Airlines!’ (UIA). Indeed this was a journey through the times, not less than a roller coaster ride, filled with nostalgia, adjourned with a fascination of the less ordinary, and teeming with frustration over missing all the wondrous luxuries. I am sure you will enjoy my Ukraine International Airlines Review! 

I am writing this review as I sit in a massive and old metallic vessel, 10000 meters above the Ukrainian countryside. The dated Boeing 767-300 is transporting me. The captain looks to be too generous in announcing about the flight information, where he told how we would be flying over Ukraine, Albania, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and finally India. I can hear the roar of the old engines fitted in the B767, while something which I hear quite less in my frequent flights aboard B777-200.  Let me narrate the experience so far:

Boarding and Seating

After sitting on the overused and worn-out seats, the flight crew made some generic announcements about the journey. Undoubtedly it was a somewhat chaotic boarding in the overbooked flight where Ukraine International Airlines leaves a dent in its first chance to impress me. Nonetheless, I am easy to convince, and the history geek in me jumped with nostalgia, after seeing the rectangle windows, segmented walls, interiors stained in hues between white brown and cream.

The rectangular overhead bins and the grooved ceiling told a similar tale. For a few moments, I believed to have been transported in the 90s, when plane travel was a flashy affair! The presence of personal TV screens was the last thing we would have expected. It was a delight seeing CRT monitors the hanging above our heads. Above all, The constant chit-chat of the crowd suggested a consensual discontent over the interiors.

Ukraine International Airlines Interior Boeing 767
Ukraine International Airlines Interior, Boeing 767
Ukraine International Airlines Interior, Boeing 767

 

And then this happened on my flight…

Finally, the plane started taxiing for the take-off. Boy, I am serious! I am not out my mind, neither am I dreaming. I got to witness a real power outage on an airplane. We are in a new decade, things like Corona have started to exist, and entrepreneurs are proposing hyper loops and the circular runways. A power cut was the last thing that I would have ever imagined on an airplane.

Amid all the commotion, distress, and anxiety, when the plane was in its wee hours, happily strolling along the tarmac, god forbid, it was all black! The large screens atop displaying random maps, the flickering lights in different shades of white, and the loud noise of the engines, all had ceased to exist, at least for a few seconds. This was followed by a light chuckle by 250 passengers, altogether sounding like a mockery to this mismanaged dated metallic capsule.


Take off – Story continued…Live review as I was typing this blog while experiencing everything. 

I had lost all the hopes of having being lifted by this ancient aircraft, especially after the power outage and the constant vibration of the machinery beneath the cabin. Yes, it roared louder on the runway, it took a long run, but it is in air. Nothing special, nothing extraordinary. Just like any other aircraft, it is in air, waving proudly at Kyiv. Within a few minutes, it attained an altitude of 10000 meters.

The captain looks to be generous in announcing about the flight information, where he told how we would be flying over Ukraine, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and finally India. Soon, the cabin crew takes rounds of the cabin, instructing every passenger to wait for the seat-belt sign to turn off before they can start breathing again. The next hour was uneventful with passengers taking turns to the lavatory and bumping me on the aisle seat.


Meal Review on Ukraine International Airlines

There is a meal service, which is notoriously slow and tardy. Indeed, I anticipate meals on a 7-hour long flight. It was inevitable that I would not get a meal cooked by a Michelin starred chef, so I had to convince my taste-buds for a bland pasta or pre-heated vegetables in some curry. The crew serves two options, one being chicken and the other being Vegetarian.

I had pre-selected my meal option as a Vegetarian. In hunger, I see the food cart coming nearer to me by every inch. It was my turn, finally! But the stewardess bluntly informs me that vegetarian meals are over and all they have is chicken. They placed the meal tray with usual airplane meal accompaniments such as a stale piece of bread, some butter, lettuce, and a muffin. The beverage options were limited to apple and tomato juice. There were no free alcoholic options available.

Do Not Miss My Egypt Air Review – Click here to read it.

The airline also sells certain moderately priced food items such as wraps, sandwiches, and protein bars. With limited vegetarian options available. I expected that Ukraine International Airlines would compensate for my displeasure over lack of complementary food with one of the vegetarian items which they otherwise had in store. But to my dismay, none of this happened. To avoid any unnecessary arguments, I decided to bear the gruelling stomach for the next 5 hours.
The pre-landing meal was a small wrap that tasted just fine. It was a relief from eating nothing to eating something. The overall meal service onboard Ukraine International Airlines is exceptionally awful.

Aeroplane Food Emirates
The food which I expected from a full-service carrier, but never got! This photograph was taken on my return flight via emirates.
Ukraine International Airlines – b737


Cabin Service on Ukraine International Airlines

The disorganised meal service hints towards the inhospitable nature of the crew. Undoubtedly, I tried to limit my interactions. I couldn’t afford more misery in an already mismanaged flight. But, to my surprise, besides the meal mishap, the crew were just normal throughout the flight. General duties were fulfilled but none went out of their way to assist passengers with their needs. Yes, now I realised the difference between a Motel and a Marriott!


Kiev Boryspil Airport
Interiors of Kiev Boryspil International Airport


Kiev Boryspil International Airport  – The Hub

The best part about my journey would be Kiev Boryspil Airport. It is more than average at its best. Being a mid-sized airport, it has one linear terminal building with all essential facilities under the roof. The Italian restaurant didn’t fail to impress me and occupied much of my layover. The gates had comfortable seating arrangements; in fact, one of the comfiest I have ever seen in an airport. However, the wifi was a big disappointment, as it was unorganised throughout the terminal, as my phone had to reconnect multiple times. Overall, the airport was quite good, compared to other European ones where I have had terrible experiences.

In conclusion, Ukraine International Airlines is like the Ryan Air of full-cost airlines with highly limited services. I can either classify it as a premium low-cost national carrier or full-service rip-off. It depends on how you see. To be frank, I really liked the ancient charm in the cabin, but the service was disappointing considering UIA is a full-service carrier. The airport was actually decent, and the price I paid for this ticket was ridiculously low around 250$! But yeah, the airline does deserve the title for Europe’s worst-rated full-service carrier!
We would love to hear your Ukraine International Airlines Review. Please us know in the comments below!

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Ukraine International Airlines Review
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Travel Blogger @ My Nomadic Lifestyle - Amish Agarwal

Amish Agarwal

Amish is a Media Student in the Netherlands. His passion lies in curating amazing travel content, developing websites, and graphic designing. The best of all, he a part-time traveller with trips to over 25 countries!

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