How to Reach Bellary & Get Around

Any behavior on beaches depends on location - Goa's touristy beaches are more permissive; local beaches in Kerala or Tamil Nadu are very conservative.

Ayurvedic treatments vary regionally - Kerala has authentic traditional Ayurveda; other states have varying quality. Research credentials carefully everywhere.

Prolonged hugging attracts negative attention - Brief goodbye hugs at airports might be tolerated, but sustained embracing will draw crowds and criticism.

State pride runs deep everywhere - Never denigrate someone's home state. "Which state is better" debates are contentious and best avoided.

Regional political parties dominate - DMK/AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, TMC in Bengal. National politics play out differently in each state.

Arm-in-arm is borderline acceptable in cities - Linking arms (especially when one person needs support) is somewhat tolerated in progressive urban areas.

Verbal harassment is frequent - People may make comments, cat-call, or express disapproval verbally, especially toward Indian couples.

Use state road transport apps - Each state has an official bus app with better local routes than private aggregators. Download all relevant ones.

Lying down together in parks is forbidden - Couples lying on grass together, even fully clothed, will face harassment from police or moral vigilantes.

Staring is the most common response - Expect to become a spectacle. May openly stare at couples showing affection, which can be uncomfortable.

Transport hubs as bases save money - Stay in Guwahati to explore all Northeast states; base in Bangalore for South India day trips.

Vegetarianism varies by state - Over 60% in Rajasthan and Gujarat; less than 2% in coastal Kerala and Northeastern states. Plan meals accordingly.

Arms around waist or shoulders is provocative - This level of physical intimacy is seen as sexual and inappropriate in public spaces.