Safety guidelines for students in india
Travel prepared. Practice consciously. Stay safe.
Whether you are coming to India for your first yoga teacher training or returning for a deeper practice, it's important to travel with awareness and a bit of street smarts. India can be a life-changing, beautiful, and humbling place, but it's also complex.
1. Traveling solo or as a "foreigner"
Arrive during daylight hours whenever possible. It makes navigating a new place much easier and safer.
Dress modestly. In most areas, it's respectful and safer to cover your shoulders, chest, and knees, even in hot weather.
Keep your valuables discreet. Use a crossbody bag, avoid flashy items, and carry copies of important documents.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away. You don’t owe anyone your time or politeness if you feel uncomfortable.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or rural areas. Use cabs or verified rides instead.
Purchase a local SIM card with data capabilities. Having Google Maps, WhatsApp, and a working phone number is a game-changer.
2. In case of emergency
National numbers
National Emergency
112
Local Police
100
Ambulance
102 / 108
Women's Helpline
1091
VIDYA Support
If you booked through us and need help:
namaste@vidyayoga.co
We will assist you however we can.
We also recommend
Save your embassy’s contact info
Keep emergency cash hidden in luggage
Share full itinerary with someone at home
3. Verified transport & accommodations
What VIDYA schools provide
Clear arrival instructions
Verified taxi services or pre-booked pickups
Safe accommodations near the center
Recommended transport apps
Uber & ola
Available in big cities
GoaMiles
Specifically for Goa
Prepaid airport taxis
Official airport counters only
Always remember
Avoid rides from strangers or unmarked vehicles
Share your live location with a friend while in transit
4. Cultural etiquette and red flags
Yoga is sacred in india, but so is respect.
Be mindful of:
Shoes off before entering any yoga hall, home, or temple
No selfies in temples or during ceremonies unless permitted
Public displays of affection are often frowned upon
Use your right hand when offering or receiving anything
Red flags
Teachers who discourage questions
Authentic teachers welcome curiosity
Unwilling to share credentials
Legitimate schools are transparent about lineage
Cash payments without receipts
All payments should be documented
Over-promising results
"Become a guru in 10 days" is unrealistic
5. Traveling as a woman in india
India is filled with warmth, hospitality, and sisterhood, but it's also a country where women travelers may experience a different kind of visibility. Most of the time, that visibility is harmless curiosity, but it's good to be prepared.
Things to keep in mind
Dress intentionally
Loose, breathable clothing that covers chest, legs, and shoulders. A scarf or dupatta is a powerful travel accessory.
Stay assertive
A firm "No," confident posture, and avoiding excessive eye contact can go a long way.
Use women-only options
She Cab, Ola Women, Uber Safe, or women's train compartments when available.
Trust women-led spaces
Many offer more comfortable, community-driven environments and are often safer.
Solo doesn't mean alone
Share your itinerary
Keep someone back home informed of your plans
Drop live location
When taking cabs or autorickshaws
Trust your gut
If something doesn’t feel right, change the plan!
Say no to photos
Some people may ask for selfies; it's okay to decline or politely walk away.
Need a safe place to land?
If you're unsure about a school, town, or journey, message us at namaste@vidyayoga.co. We'll always point you toward verified, respectful places where your practice (and presence) are valued.
Before you fly
Get travel insurance that covers medical and cancellations
Pack basic meds and hygiene supplies (yes, including toilet paper)
Download offline maps, WhatsApp, and Translate
Research your destination and accommodation
Inform your bank about international travel
Arrive with an open heart but a clear mind.
One last note
India will challenge and change you in all the best ways. But safety should never be something you compromise on. When in doubt, ask. We're here.
Need help or want to double-check something?
Write to us:
namaste@vidyayoga.co