Myths about India: what really prevents you from going

It is hard to find another country with as many enduring stereotypes as India. The image that has been shaped over decades has grown from movies, TV shows, and travel blogs. Today, myths about India not only distort reality but also repel tourists, hindering an objective perception. Let’s talk about them in more detail and tell you what the situation is really like in the country.

Myth 1. Starving beggars on every corner

Talks about poverty sound louder than actual assessments. According to official data from NITI Aayog, the poverty rate in India is projected to decrease to 14.9% by 2024. Beggars in metropolises are regulated by local authorities, and in tourist areas, by the police. Myths about India amplify the image of endless poverty, but it does not reflect the real dynamics.

In Mumbai, for example, beggars are not more common than in major cities in Latin America or Southeast Asia. So, the question “is it true that there are many starving beggars in India” has a straightforward answer: yes, poverty exists, but there is no massiveness or aggression in this process.

Myth 2. Crafty Indians always want to deceive

In Indian culture, the ability to bargain is equated with respect for the interlocutor. Tourist traps exist — as in any country with a high influx of foreigners. However, the claim of widespread deception is refuted by complaint statistics. According to the Indian Ministry of Tourism, less than 0.04% of complaints are related to fraud.

The phrase “crafty Indians” is a typical stereotype that does not reflect the real situation. Traders in Agra and Jaipur adjust prices based on demand. This is not deception but a market strategy. Myths about India replace cultural features with negative stereotypes.

Myth 3. Cockroaches in Indian hotels — stability

The country’s hotel industry offers over 2 million certified rooms. From five-star brands like Taj and Oberoi to clean and modern guesthouses, sanitary standards are maintained. Cockroaches in hotels are a thing of the 90s.

However, climate should not be ignored. In tropical regions, insects are more active, but civilized hotels regularly carry out disinfection. Myths about India do not reflect real changes in the level of service, which have become noticeable after 2015.

Myth 4. Cows on every beach in Goa

There is a clear distinction between places of worship and tourist zones in the state. Cows do not appear en masse on the beaches in Goa. In villages — yes, by the roads — possibly, on the promenade — extremely rarely.

Here, a cow is not just an animal but a cultural symbol. The state has brought resort infrastructure to a level familiar to European tourists. The government allocates a budget for shelters for sacred animals to prevent them from migrating to tourists. Myths about India exploit exoticism but do not explain the systemic regulatory measures.

Myth 5. India is chaos, dirt, and superstition

Stereotypes about the country often stem from contrasts: Western order versus Eastern diversity. Dirt is a result of infrastructure overload in metropolises, not systemic negligence. Private contractors maintain cleanliness in tourist areas.

Superstitions are part of traditional culture. It is not religious fanaticism but rather a part of the visual language: amulets on cars, garlands in temples, pujas in shops. Most Indians seamlessly combine these symbols with a high-tech way of life. According to the Nasscom report, the country ranks second globally in the number of IT specialists.

Myth 6. Insects everywhere, especially in food

Food courts in malls, hotel restaurants, Ayurvedic cafes — all operate according to FSSAI standards. Inspections are conducted quarterly, and in the last 3 years, less than 2% of serious violations have been found.

Myths about India regarding insects in food do not consider the scale of the country and the difference between street and official gastronomy. Like in any other country, it is advisable to choose verified places. A service with a rating above 4.5 on Google Maps or Zomato guarantees safety.

Myth 7. Everyone wants to deceive tourists for money

Objective fact: India is a country with the most affordable prices for services among popular Asian destinations. The average cost of a day in the country is $40–50, including accommodation, transport, and meals.

Deception occurs in high tourist flow areas — as in Egypt, Turkey, Italy. However, the number of such cases does not exceed global averages. Myths about India turn individual cases into generalizations, failing to show how financially transparent the country is with proper planning.

Why you should go to Goa and forget about myths about India

Beaches with Blue Flag certification, low crime rates, developed infrastructure for yoga and retreats. According to the Indian Ministry of Tourism, Goa annually welcomes over 2 million foreign tourists.

Why you should go to Goa is a question easily answered by facts: 300 sunny days a year, a mild climate, visa-free regime with an e-visa, affordable flights (from $380 round trip from Moscow), and a variety of beaches. Myths about India do not hinder Goa from remaining a leader among beach destinations in South Asia.

Stereotypes to leave at home

Before traveling to India, many rely on false perceptions formed decades ago. But the country is changing — infrastructure is improving, services are reaching new levels, and travelers are becoming more comfortable. It’s time to look at the country without distorted expectations.

Here are the key myths about India that do not stand up to scrutiny:

1. India is a country of total poverty. It is a rapidly developing economy with millions of middle-class representatives.
   
2. It is impossible for a tourist to avoid deception. With basic awareness, it is easy.
   
3. Widespread insects and dirt. Only in specific regions, with poor accommodation choices.
   
4. Indians are cunning and unreliable. They are hospitable and open, with a strong business acumen.
   
5. Temples everywhere. Urban administrations have organized the placement of temples in religious areas.
   
6. The sea is dirty. Most beaches are maintained by municipal services.
   
7. Money leaks. Budgets are controlled due to low prices and electronic payments.
   

These stereotypes are no longer relevant — India has long surpassed foreign clichés. A conscious approach to the itinerary, accommodation, and information turns the trip into a deep and comfortable journey.

Why you should not consider myths about India

Enduring myths about India distort reality and prevent seeing the country as it is. Notions of total poverty, widespread dirt, scams, and chaos are outdated and do not align with current facts. The Republic of India is not an extreme but a growing country with culture, service, and tourism potential.