Things To Do
in Hodal

Vibrant scenes of vendors, produce, colorful spices and daily life—best during morning and late-afternoon golden hours.

Open riverbanks and surrounding fields offer sunrise/sunset photography, migrating birds (seasonal) and rural landscapes.

Characterful portraits of cooks, lassi-making, and traditional rural food preparation—good for low-light evening shots.

Seasons like mustard bloom or wheat harvest present dramatic rural panoramas and working-farmer scenes.

A bustling daily market selling fresh vegetables, dairy and snacks—try fresh lassi, samosas and seasonal chaat from small vendors around the market.

Simple, hearty meals geared to travelers; best for dal-roti, parathas, and buttery breads. They also serve fresh milk products.

A traditional Namaste (hands pressed) is polite; a light handshake is increasingly common. Show respect to elders and use formal greetings when meeting older people.

Dress conservatively—cover shoulders and knees—especially when visiting religious sites or rural homes. Women may prefer long skirts/tunics and men should avoid sleeveless shirts in public.

Remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship, ask before photographing people (especially women), and avoid public displays of affection.

Local hospitality is warm; it’s customary to accept or at least sample food or tea when offered. Small gifts such as sweets are appreciated when visiting homes.

Tipping is casual: round up bills at small eateries, leave 5–10% at nicer restaurants if service is good, and tip hotel porters or drivers modestly. Street vendors do not expect tips but small change is appreciated.

Cash (Indian rupee) is the most widely accepted form of payment in Hodal; small shops and dhabas may be cash-only. UPI (mobile payments) is increasingly common and convenient if you have an Indian bank account; cards are accepted at some larger establishments in nearby towns. ATMs are available but withdraw cash in advance for rural excursions.

Very hot and dry; daytime temperatures frequently exceed 40°C in peak months. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening, carry water, sun protection and wear light cotton clothing.

Monsoon brings short heavy rains and greener landscapes—some dirt roads may become muddy and low-lying areas can flood temporarily. Expect higher humidity and occasional travel delays; bring a rain jacket and waterproof footwear.

Post-monsoon months are pleasant with cooler days and clear skies, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor photography. Agricultural fields are active after harvest, offering good countryside views.

Cool to chilly mornings with fog on some days and daytime temperatures cool but comfortable; heavy woolens recommended for early mornings and nights. This is a good time for markets and festivals; respiratory illnesses are more common—dress warmly.

Informal walks along the riverbank and floodplain—great for birdwatching, sunrise/sunset photography and gentle outdoor time close to town.

Trails around reservoirs and small wooded areas provide short hikes and picnic spots; distances make this a half-day trip from Hodal.

Protected green pockets and ridge trails on the fringes of Delhi offer walking trails, wildlife spotting and a different landscape within day-trip distance.

An Aravalli forest and sacred grove offering low-impact trails and a chance to experience one of the region’s important remnant woodlands—best visited with a local guide and as a day trip.

Vegetarian food is easy to find—many eateries serve pure veg thalis and regional vegetable dishes. Clarify use of ghee or butter if you need strictly vegan food; some sweets contain ghee or milk.

Vegan options are limited but possible—ask for food cooked without ghee, butter, yogurt or milk. Fresh fruit, some lentil dishes made without dairy, and roadside chana (chickpea) snacks can work.

Maize (makki) and millet (bajra) breads are naturally gluten-free; rice-based dishes are available. Always mention cross-contamination when eating at shared-kitchen dhabas.

Communicate allergies clearly (in Hindi if possible). Dairy is common in many dishes; fried street food may be cooked in shared oil—exercise caution.