The Short Answer
Never drink tap water in India. Even in 5-star hotels, use bottled water or Reverse Osmosis (RO) filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth. The safest bet for travelers is branded mineral water like Bisleri, Kinley, or Aquafina. Check the seal before opening.
What is "RO Water"?
You will hear this everywhere in India. RO stands for Reverse Osmosis. It is a filtration system used in almost every middle-class Indian home and restaurant. It removes heavy metals, bacteria, and viruses.
Is RO water safe? Yes, generally. If you are visiting a friend's home or a good restaurant, "Regular RO Water" is safe to drink. However, for short trips, sticking to sealed bottles eliminates any risk of a dirty filter.
Branded Bottled Water: Check the Seal
Not all bottled water is the same. Stick to major national brands:
- Bisleri (Green label, the most common)
- Kinley (Coca-Cola brand)
- Aquafina (Pepsi brand)
- Himalayan / Vedica (Natural spring water, more expensive)
Ice in Drinks: The Grey Area
"No ice, please" is a common traveler phrase. In street stalls or small cafes, skip the ice. It might be made from tap water. in high-end bars, hotels (like Taj, Oberoi), or chains like Starbucks, the ice is made from filtered water and is safe.