Stomach Bug in India: What Travelers Need to Know

When you're exploring India, a stomach bug, a common illness caused by contaminated food or water, often called traveler's diarrhea. Also known as traveler's diarrhea, it's not a sign you did something wrong—it's one of the most frequent travel hiccups, especially in places with warm climates and bustling street food scenes. Most travelers will face it at least once, but knowing what to expect and how to prevent it makes all the difference.

India’s food culture is incredible—spicy curries, fresh naan, sizzling tandoori, and sweet chai—but it’s also where bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Giardia thrive if hygiene isn’t perfect. You don’t need to avoid street food entirely. In fact, the busiest stalls with high turnover and locals lining up are often the safest. The real risks come from raw salads washed in tap water, unpeeled fruit, ice in drinks, and dairy left out in the heat. A 2023 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research found that over 60% of traveler’s diarrhea cases in India were linked to water contamination, not the food itself. That means your water bottle matters as much as your plate.

Prevention is simple: stick to bottled or boiled water, skip the ice unless you know it’s made from purified water, and eat food that’s piping hot right off the stove. If you’re staying in a hotel, ask if they use filtered water for washing produce. Many do. Carry oral rehydration salts—they’re cheap, light, and lifesavers if you start feeling off. Probiotics don’t guarantee immunity, but many travelers swear by them as a daily shield. And if you do get sick? Don’t panic. Rest, hydrate, avoid dairy and spicy food for a day or two, and stick to plain rice, bananas, and toast. Most cases clear up in 24 to 48 hours. Antibiotics aren’t always needed—and shouldn’t be taken without a doctor’s advice.

The posts below cover everything you need to navigate India’s food scene safely—from what Americans can eat without risk, to how to pick safe street vendors, to the hidden rules of temple food and local hospitality. You’ll find real stories from travelers who got sick, learned fast, and kept going. This isn’t about fear. It’s about confidence. You don’t need to eat like a local to enjoy local food—you just need to know the small things that keep you well.