India is home to over one billion people and its cities are crowded, crazy, chaotic and often downright confusing!

But for those travelling to India on their gap year or career break, immersing yourself in the crowd is the best way to truly experience the country and its people.

Lonely Planet’s Soumya Rao suggests ‘5 great ways to join the crowds in India’, which include attending a Rajnikanth movie opening, going to a free concert in Bangalore and pandal-hopping during the Bengal festival of Durga Puja.

Another suggestion is to attend a cricket match. In a country where cricketers are idolised you are bound to find excitement here, as well as a good measure of random Mexican waves, name-calling and chanting!

While in Mumbai, there is no better way to get up close and personal with the Indian people than to ride one of its notorious railways. While this is the cheapest way to get around the city, the trains are always jam-packed full of locals with many more hanging off the side, so be prepared to rub shoulders and stand on feet!

Read the full article here.

Volunteer work is another great way to immerse yourself in Indian communities. Find out what volunteer programmes Inspire offers in India.