Travel Tips
India
Palaces, spiritual cities, Himalayan foothills and superb regional food make India intense and unforgettable.
- Capital
- New Delhi
- Currency
- Indian rupee (INR)
- Language
- Hindi, English and many regional languages
- Best overall
- October to March
- Emergency
- 112
- Electricity
- 230V, plug types C, D and M
Most visitors need a visa, and e-visas are available for many nationalities. Use only the official Indian government e-visa site. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
October to March is cooler and drier for most regions. April to June is very hot, and the monsoon lasts roughly June to September. The Himalayas are best in summer.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Taj Mahal
The white marble monument in Agra. Go at sunrise. It is closed on Fridays.
Jaipur
The Pink City, with palaces and Amber Fort.
Varanasi
A sacred city of riverside ghats and rituals.
Kerala
Backwaters, tea hills and a relaxed coast.
Delhi
Mughal monuments, markets and a great food scene.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 3 Delhi
- Days 4 to 5 Agra and the Taj Mahal
- Days 6 to 8 Jaipur
- Days 9 to 10 Varanasi
- Days 11 to 14 Kerala, by air
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Trains are an experience, but book early. Fly for long distances.
- Use ride apps such as Uber and Ola where you can, or agree on taxi fares in advance.
Not sure how to get between places?
- UPI is widely used by locals, though visitors usually rely on cash and cards. Carry small notes.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Biryani: fragrant spiced rice.
- Thali: a mixed platter of regional dishes.
- Masala dosa: a crisp filled crepe from the south.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Drink sealed or filtered water, and be careful with raw food.
- Dress modestly, cover up at religious sites, and remove your shoes where asked. Women travelers should check current safety guidance.
Planning a trip to India?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.