In 2014 I wrote The Ultimate India Packing List for Women and kept it updated with any changes and my best recommendations. This is based off long-term travel with a full-sized backpack.
My fourth visit to India is different, and I'm only taking carry-on luggage. This includes my overhead piece plus my "personal item" which is my daily handbag.
This means no liquids over 100mL, no sharps and no over-packing! A minimalist, zero-waste dream because there's no room for anything I won't definitely need and I have to leave space I need to leave to bring back any goods I pick up along the way.
I have to buy and wear local clothes for my work which is kind of cheating, so if you can fit an extra 2 changes of clothes in - go for it!
Below is my full packing list for 5 weeks in North India.
NB: I'll be using my Dr Bronner's for face wash, body wash and hand washing.
Coconut oil. It costs $1.50/L so I'll pick some up as body moisturiser.
Insect repellant. I've chosen not to buy any this trip because I use coconut oil instead, but it's definitely available here more affordably than home, and you won't go over your liquids quota.