India Travel Guide

Country Overview

From the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas to the tropical shores bathed by the Indian Ocean, India is an intriguing mix of cultural traditions, spirituality, and lively festivals. Discover one of the world's oldest civilizations while admiring impressive forts, palaces, and the most beautiful monument to love ever made. Stroll along with its bazaars and sunbathe at its beaches; with landscapes and sceneries as varied as its world-famous cuisine, India will capture your heart from the first minute. Embark on a soul-stirring journey and return with memories that will linger for a lifetime.

Country at a Glance

• Capital: New Delhi
• Population: 1.35 billion
• Language: Hindi, English
• Currency: Indian rupee (INR)
• Time zone: UTC +5:30
• Electricity: 230 V / 50 Hz. Sockets: Types D and C
• Dialing code: +91

Best Time to Visit India

India experiences three seasons: winter, summer, and monsoon. The best time of the year to visit India is during the winter season, between late October and March when the country is cool (warmer in the south) and dry after the monsoon rains. November and December are the busiest months for tourism, although the Golden Triangle is best visited during October/November or February/March.

Next comes the summer season, which lasts until early June. Temperatures reach their peak, with intense heat in central and southern India, but it is the best season for visiting the northern regions.

From July to late September, the monsoon brings regular downpours that cause flooding in some lowland regions. Rains intersperse with sunny hot intervals, and the country gets very humid.

Top Places to Visit

Being such a big country, India has so many fascinating cities that choosing which ones to visit, when time is limited, can be difficult. The Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur) and Varanasi are a must in any itinerary, but the country has many other interesting cities, national parks, and beach destinations... In order to make things easier for you, we have picked some essential places that should be on your bucket list when you travel to India.

Delhi

The capital of India is a city with multiple personalities. Tour historic Old Delhi and modern New Delhi to discover the past and the present of the country through landmarks like Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple, or Humayun's Tomb, and explore its countless markets and bazaars.
Delhi City

Agra

Located 200 km south of Delhi, Agra is a major tourist destination with several amazing buildings from the Mughal Empire era, such as Fatehpur Sikri or Agra Fort. India's most famous monument, the breathtaking Taj Mahal, attracts millions of visitors every year.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the third corner of India's Golden Triangle, is the capital of the royal state of Rajasthan. Home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the fascinating Amber Fort and the Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory, the Pink City of India is also famous for its bustling bazaars and delicious food, and the magnificent City Palace.

Jaipur

Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the seven holy cities in Hinduism, is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. The spiritual capital of India is located at the banks of the river Ganges, where pilgrims come to wash away their sins through fascinating rituals and the Ganga Aarti ritual takes place every evening.

Kerala

The southernmost state on the west coast of India is home to an impressive network of brackish lagoons known as backwaters. This 600 km-long coastal strip is the perfect destination for those who want to relax at the beach and enjoy an authentic ayurvedic massage.

Amritsar

The largest urban area in the northwestern state of Punjab and an important hub of Sikh history and culture. Amritsar, a deeply spiritual city, is home to the spectacular Golden Temple, one of the most beautiful shrines in the country, located in the middle of a manmade lake.

Udaipur

Once called "the most romantic spot on the continent of India", this City of Lakes is one of the most sought-after destinations in the state of Rajasthan. Admire the stunning City Palace complex -still used today by the royal family-, located at the bank of Lake Pichola, and enjoy the sunset from the Monsoon Palace.

Jodhpur

Famous for the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort that overlooks the city from a rocky hill and for its characteristic blue houses -no wonder it's known as the Blue City-, Jodhpur has expanded outside its 16th-century city wall. Explore its charming markets and bazaars before visiting the Clock Tower or the Jaswant Thada cenotaph.

Jaisalmer

Called the Golden City because of the yellowish sandstone used in several temples, palaces, and the majestic Jaisalmer Fort. Encircled by 99 bastions, this extraordinary citadel that seems to rise from the sand of the Thar Desert makes Jaisalmer one of the main tourist destinations in Rajasthan.

Top Things to Do

Festivals play a key role in India's culture and identity, as well as spirituality and religious celebrations. Joining locals and celebrating their lively festivities, exploring amazing temples and heritage sites, and experiencing the country's millenary culture.

See the Taj Mahal

Often considered the most beautiful monument in the world, this white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a memorial for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. In order to avoid the crowds and the midday heat, go either at sunrise or sunset, the best times to enjoy this fascinating wonder in all its splendor.

Taj Mahal

Old Delhi Walking Tour

There is no better way to experience the traditional Indian culture and lifestyle than taking a walking tour around the old capital of the Mughal Empire. Among many other landmarks, you will visit the famous Jama Masjid -one of the largest mosques in India- and the Chandni Chowk market, while enjoying Indian delicious street food.

Attend Local Festivals

India is a highly spiritual country full of amusing festivals. During Holi (Festival of Colors), Indians celebrate the beginning of the spring by throwing colored powder on each other. Diwali (Festival of Lights) is a five-day celebration full of fireworks, lanterns, and candles to commemorate the victory of good over evil. Plan your trip to coincide with a festival to get the most out of it.

Safari at Ranthambore National Park

The best place to spot the famous Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. In this huge park (1334 km2) in the state of Rajasthan, established in 1955 and named after the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, you will also have the chance to see leopards, bears, crocodiles, chitals, and many other amazing wild animals.

Sail the Kerala Backwaters in a Houseboat

One of the main attractions of the country, Kerala Backwaters is a 900-kilometer labyrinth where freshwater from the rivers meets the seawater from the Arabian Sea: canals, lagoons, and lakes that run parallel to the Malabar Coast. Overnight aboard a houseboat and you will be rewarded with incredibly beautiful sunset views.

Goa Beaches

India's smallest state has some of the finest beaches in Asia along its 100-km coastline. Whether you are looking for a party or you want to relax, Goa is the perfect destination: Hindu temples, flea markets, delicious seafood, water sports, and a multitude of sun-kissed beaches.

Explore Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Dag out soft rock by hand, these two stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be one of the highlights of your journey. Ellora has 34 Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves (dating as early as the 6th century) and Ajanta has 29, all Buddhist. The Kailasa Temple at Ellora, dedicated to Shiva will impress you with its life-size elephant sculptures.

India Dance Show

Originated in ancient times, India's traditional dances represent the culture of a particular region. Many cities throughout the country hold dance and musical performances, with dancers executing energetic martial-arts-like movements dressed in colorful costumes. Experience India's culture at its best in a traditional dance show.

Shopping

The huge variety of hand-made items and the cheap prices make it hard to resist shopping in India, where each region tends to specialize in particular products and crafts. You will find the best deals in Indian markets: make sure you visit Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi and Johari Bazaar in Jaipur, but do not buy on impulse. As you will see the same things several times, gain a sense of quality and learn how much things should cost. Bargaining is acceptable and expected.

Saris

A long-time favorite among female tourists, it is said that Indian women have worn these traditional dresses for more than five millennia. A long length of fabric that is worn wrapped around the body, pleated, and pinned over the shoulder; every state has its own special weaves and fabrics. Pashmina shawls are also very popular.

Tea

India is one of the largest tea producers in the world. Make sure you take home some Darjeeling tea -which comes from the hills of northeastern India- and an Indian special tea called chai, made of black tea and spices, and served with milk. There are many tea shops where you can sample and buy tea.

Jewelry

You can find an amazing variety of real and costume jewelry virtually everywhere in China: precious stones, gems, sapphires, and gold jewelry for very affordable prices, but always make sure the jewelry is hallmarked. Head to Jaipur if you are looking for gemstones.

Incense

Whether sticks or cones, India is the right place to pick up all sorts of scents. Nowhere else will you find such a huge variety, as most of the world's incense is made here. Sandalwood oil, often used in incense, acts as an air freshener, relieves anxiety, and lowers stress.

What to Eat

It is common for Indian restaurants in other countries to present dishes as part of a uniform cuisine, but this is absolutely not the case. Strongly influenced by religious and cultural practices, India has one of the world's most diverse cuisines, boasting a wide range of flavors and regional variations due to the different soil types, climate, and locally available ingredients. From street food stalls to luxury restaurants, you will enjoy an amazing assortment of dishes characterized by the diverse use of mouth-watering spices.

Indian cuisine has several staples: long-grain white rice is the most popular (there are countless regional varieties and it is more used in the south than in the north, where dishes are usually paired with bread), but also atta (whole wheat flour) and a wide array of pulses such as lentils, pigeon peas, mung beans, chickpeas...

There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Chicken and mutton tend to be, for religious reasons (cows are sacred to Hindus), the most commonly consumed meats, and delicious fish and seafood can be found in the coastal regions.

Some of the Most Popular Dishes in Indian Cuisine Are

Butter chicken:

A traditional dish that originated in the northern state of Punjab. Boneless chicken pieces marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices, and served in a mildly spiced tomato gravy.

Tandoori chicken:

Roasted chicken meat marinated in yogurt and spices. It gets its name from the tandoor oven also used to make naan (Indian flatbread).

Rogan Josh:

An Indian classic from the Kashmir region. Slow-cooked lamb in a creamy tomato-based sauce.

Biryani:

Rice with a blend of spices that can include any kind of meat or vegetables.

Chole:

Chickpeas cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a special blend of spices. A tasty vegetarian choice.

Samosas:

Deep-fried pastry with different fillings, usually mashed potatoes and peas. One of the most recognizable Indian snacks.

Naan:

This puffy flatbread is a staple that can go with almost any other dish.

Masala Chai:

Milky black tea, sweetened and spiced. A delicious mixture of water and milk boiled together with whole species.

Dinner is considered the main meal of the day. You will surely be provided with cutlery in the restaurants of most hotels you will stay at but, traditionally, most people in India eat with their (right) hands.

It is not safe to drink tap water in India, but bottled mineral water is readily available in hotels and restaurants.

Getting Around

Most flights from abroad land in either Delhi or Mumbai, although it is also possible to fly to other cities like Chennai or Bangalore. Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is one of the busiest in South Asia, and there are numerous nonstop services from and to North America, Europe, and Australia.

For domestic travel, the best way to cover long distances -for example, flying from any city in the Golden Triangle to Varanasi, Kerala, or Goa- is by air. Several low-cost airlines operate in the country, and domestic flights are very affordable. Since check-in and preboarding procedures are extremely rigorous in India, make sure you arrive at the airports with plenty of time in advance.

India has one of the world's largest railway networks. Trains are inexpensive but tend to fill up early; if traveling by rail, avoid trains that are not air-conditioned. The best way to get around and travel short to medium distances is to have your own vehicle and a driver who knows the roads. Make sure the hired car is licensed to travel to other states.

For local transport within cities, agree on the price beforehand if there is not a fixed fare, whether for taxis or rickshaws.

Dressing

Except for the mountainous northern region, most parts of the country are tropical and warm, even in the winter, so you should pack loose-fitting light clothing. Cotton and linen are probably the best choices. But don´t forget to bring a light raincoat or poncho if you are traveling during the monsoon season.

If you are visiting a small town or village, you should dress more modestly than under Western standards. Always keep in mind that India is a conservative country. In order to avoid raising eyebrows, leave at home your tank/crop tops, very short shorts, miniskirts, and anything revealing, or use them just at beach destinations. Do not overpack; clothes are very cheap in India, so you can buy whatever you need once you get there.

When visiting temples and religious sites, visitors should always wear long trousers or skirts. Shoulders (or even hair) should be covered -shawls can usually be rented at the entrance-, and shoes and hats/caps must be removed before entering. Couples should even avoid holding hands.

Accommodation

Indians themselves love to travel within their country, that is why the accommodation offer is large and covers the whole range, from budget hostels with shared bathrooms to historic palaces or picturesque houseboats. It is usually not necessary to book in advance unless you are traveling during the high season (budget travelers frequently just arrive at a destination and walk around to find a place). At other times, many hotels offer significant discounts. Keep in mind that some hotels close during the monsoon season.

Homestays are a good option for those who want to experience ordinary Indian life, but they are usually far from the main tourist hubs. Heritage properties have proliferated in recent years, mostly in the state of Rajasthan. Old forts and palaces were converted into upscale accommodation for delivering an authentic Indian experience.