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Famous Places to Explore in Hyderabad

A vibrant city with the imposing...

Raipur Tourist Places | Best Place to Visit

The stronghold of several erstwhile...

Declared as India's first UNESCO World...

Ananthagiri

The verdant Ananthagiri Hills is...

Located on the banks of River Godavari,...

Situated around 40 km from Raipur,...

Boasting the famous Chand Baori...

Albert Hall Museum

A magnificent building built in...

2023. The year of India’s G20...

One of the oldest civilisations in the world, India is a mosaic of multicultural experiences. With a rich heritage and myriad attractions, the country is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It covers an area of 32, 87,263 sq. km, extending from the snow-covered Himalayan heights to the tropical rain forests of the south. As the 7th largest country in the world, India stands apart from the rest of Asia, marked off as it is by mountains and the sea, which give the country a distinct geographical entity.

Fringed by the Great Himalayas in the north, it stretches southwards and at the Tropic of Cancer, tapers off into the Indian Ocean between the Bay of Bengal on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. As you travel the expanse of the country, you are greeted by diverse nuances of cuisines, faiths, arts, crafts, music, nature, lands, tribes, history and adventure sports. India has a mesmeric conflation of the old and the new. As the bustling old bazaars rub shoulders with swanky shopping malls, and majestic monuments accompany luxurious heritage hotels, the quintessential traveller can get the best of both worlds. Head to the mountains, enjoy a beach retreat or cruise through the golden Thar, India has options galore for all.

Popular in India

India is a home to the finest architectural heritage, serene ghats, spectacular landscapes and largest tiger reserve

Statue of Unity

It’s huge, almost gigantic! That is the first reaction most people have as they speed down the winding road leading to the towering Statue of Unity (SoU). A long bridge connects the mainland to the...

Most Famous

India is a remarkable tourist destination that offers a plethora of experiences to travellers. From the grandiose Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world, to opulent palaces and forts, India...

Museums In India

The glorious ancient history of India withits rich cultural heritage and a vibrant potpourri of traditions has beenimmortalised in various museums and galleries across the country. Frompre-historic...

Forts and Palaces

India is blessed with heritage riches and a regal lineage. Vestiges of Indian royalty can be felt in the various forts and palaces speckled across the country. From hill forts in Rajasthan to...

The Land of Gandhi

The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, is perfectly preserved in India. From various museums and memorials to Gandhiji's ashram, there are various stopovers in the country that...

It’s huge, almost gigantic! That is the first reaction most people...

India is a remarkable tourist destination that offers a plethora of...

The glorious ancient history of India withits rich cultural heritage...

India is blessed with heritage riches and a regal lineage. Vestiges...

The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, is perfectly...

Must Visit Destinations

From historical cities to natural splendours, come see the best of India

A lush carpet of rolling green, interrupted by low rises of mountains...

Shillong | Shillong Tourist Places

Colonial-era charm, a landscape of rolling green and pristine...

A coffer of coffee, cardamom and tea plantations, which envelope the...

Often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is a...

A quaint hill town, perched against the backdrop of Doddabetta (2,637...

Perched atop a rocky ridge, with snow-clad Dhauladhar mountains and...

A pristine green expanse ringed by the mist-shrouded Himalayas and a...

Places to Visit in Kavaratti

Exerting a magnetic pull over scuba divers, snorkellers and nature...

Explore before you visit

Dive deeper into India's rich culture and heritage

Khajuraho - Poetry in Unity

Ajanta Caves

Taj Mahal - Poetry of Love

Immersive experiences.

In the land of opulence, let loose and discover yourself

Popular Trips

Explore the best of India

48 hours in Bengaluru

48 hours in Chandigarh

48 Hours in Chennai

48 hours in Delhi

A ride to the port

A slice of serenity in Ahmedabad

A trip along the coast

By the Tungabhadra

Eastern vignettes

The neighbouring states of West Bengal and Odisha in the eastern part...

Going South

Explore the southern fringes of India as you travel along the coast,...

Himalayan Odyssey

This 15-day trip across north India will not only take you to noted...

On Buddha’s Footsteps

This two-week-long trip takes you across four Indian states to sites...

Rhododendrons and Red Pandas

This trip takes you through the cultural heritage of a metropolis...

The best of Bengal and Sikkim

This one-of-a-kind trip will allow you to see, explore, immerse and...

Celebrate With Us

As you travel through the country, be a part of our festivals and feasts

Tue, June 20, 2023

International Day of Yoga

Wed, June 21, 2023

Sao Joao Feast of St John the Baptist

Sat, June 24, 2023

Hemis Festival

Wed, June 28- Thu, June 29, 2023

Eid-ul-Zuha

Thu, June 29- Fri, June 30, 2023

Champakulam Boat Race

Mon, July 3, 2023

An insight to the incredible experiences in India

Indian Monsoon Getaways

Incredible India

Rain-Rain please stay

Caravan Trip of MP: Your little home on wheels

4 quick weekend getaways from the 4 metros

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Places You Need To Visit In India

Monuments Of New Delhi

First-time travelers to India would likely end up in its capital, New Delhi. The flamboyant lifestyle of this city is likely to derail tourists from sticking to their itinerary.

Many of the world’s architectures can be attributed to love and the Taj Mahal is one of them. Mumtaz Mahal’s last request from her husband, Shah Jahan, before she died after the delivery of her 14th child, was to have a mausoleum built in her name.

Havelock Island

Havelock Island is the largest of its kind in Ritchie’s Archipelago. It makes the perfect location for eco-tourism. Havelock Island now sees more visitors because of its great beaches, snorkeling, scuba diving opportunities and casual atmosphere.

Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves dates back to the second century BC. They became isolated around 1819 which has helped to preserve some of their paintings. The preserved murals have everything from sailing ships to the animal-filled forest and city streets.

Brahmaputra River

Tourists who are seeking companionship with nature will find Brahmaputra River provides them with a burst of excitement. Brahmaputra is one of the major rivers in northeast India. Its origin can be traced to Tibet.

Ranakpur Temple

India is famous for having an array of temples, but Ranakpur Temple really stands out. Its fame stems from its art and architectural creativity. The origin of Ranakpur can be traced back to the 15 th century and it took half a century to erect.

India Tourist Office is a tourist guide website for those traveling to India. Our primary goal is to provide a guide and relevant information that will assist tourists planning to visit India. We also provide information on the lesser-known areas that will make a great vacation spot for those traveling to India. Tourism has been identified as one of the major sectors that contribute as much as 9 percent to the national GDP of India. Encouraging tourism to India is not only doing the economy a favor but helping to foster unity in the world. Encouraging tourism is also a way of helping people to take a break from their busy schedule to relax which is generally good for maintaining optimal health.

Little Asians – the premiering series in adults-only genre. The highest quality of video entertainment with unique girls coming from oriental counties of Asia. Their bodies are fragile, their look is innocent but their minds are depraved with a lot of filth.

GenderX Films – are you ready to get into the transgender world and their idea of having fun time? Watch this Zero Tolerance series and find out why all out entertainment provided by trans girls is in huge demand these days!

Gaycest – prepare for a shocking experience in the step family fantasies genre. This time, it’s guys only and they develop unpredictable crushes on other step family members. Sounds unreal? Yes, it does. But trust us, they do go ahead with making these crushes very real. And Gaycest series present them all.

PAWG – the finest white butts in action. Watch those world famous PAWGs which stands for phat ass white girls. It can’t get better than this when it comes to roundest and fattest backs!

Asshole Fever – get ready for your daily fix of the backdoor fun. This series has been around for ages and it continues bringing you the best European teens with their inner cravings for the second hole entertainment!

Upclose – when your casual love making scenario goes very personal. Watch both partners indulged in real chemistry on the set! This is the newest series of Adult Time Network and it’s really as sensual as it gets!

Property Sex – real estate deals made the American way. Watch this famous series for its approach to the sales business. Female realtors are doing everything they can to convince clients. Bending over in this line of work is something you do daily!

Doctor Tapes – what happens behind closed door of some doctor’s offices. See fantasy interpretation of gay doctor stories in this exclusive of Say Uncle Network. Young twinks in hands of experienced docs who have nothing but their pleasure as #1 priority.

Evil Angel – presenting the very best when it comes to the real filthy stuff. Several directors with their naughty visions and dirty minds under one studio. Years of experience and yet so much more to show. See what’s hot these days in daily updates videos.

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UK to India travel restrictions: entry requirements explained

The e-visa has now been reinstated for uk passport holders travelling to india.

T he beaches of Goa, palaces of Rajasthan and slopes of the Himalayas reopened to foreign travellers in winter 2021. But for British travellers, the reopening hasn’t been smooth. The e-visa system introduced in 2014 was paused during the pandemic, and while it was reinstated when borders reopened, UK passport holders were not eligible to use it. Instead, travellers had to provide and present a paper visa. Fortunately, as of December 5, India’s visa policy has changed to allow UK nationals to use the e-visa service for travelling to India as well. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan (Getty Images)

Can I travel to India now?

Yes. However, any visas issued before October 2021 are no longer valid, so you’ll need to apply for a new one. For UK passport holders, the process of applying for a tourist visa has at least been simplified as it is now possible to apply for an e-visa again (see below).

Additionally, British citizens of Pakistani origin must apply for an Indian visa on a Pakistan passport, or prove that this has been renounced or cancelled. The process may take seven or eight weeks more.

If you’re a OCI or PIO cardholder, you don’t need a visa to enter India.

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How do I apply for an Indian e-visa?

Applications for the Indian e-visa must be submitted online using the Indian government’s dedicated website .

For the tourist visa, you’ll need to apply at least four days and up to 120 days before you travel. Visas are valid for 30 days, a year or five years.

The application form will require details such as your level of education, religion, and your parents’ nationality.

You’ll also need to submit a passport-style photo with a maximum file size of 1MB, as well as a scan of your passport.

How much does an e-visa cost?

The cost of the e-visa for tourists depends on the country you’re travelling from and varies depending on the time of year you’re planning to travel to India.

For the 30-day e-visa, the fee is US$10 for entry from April to June and US$25 for entry from July to March. The one-year and five-year e-visas cost US$40 and US$80 respectively.

How long does it take to get an e-visa?

The e-visa takes up to 72 hours to process, although you may receive it more quickly than that. If you haven’t received your e-visa after 72 hours, you’re advised to contact the visa service.

What are the travel restrictions?

India has scrapped the requirement for incoming travellers to show proof of vaccination or PCR test results on arrival. However, you will have to go through thermal screening on arrival and, if symptomatic, you may be isolated and taken to a medical facility. You will also need to follow local advice when on the ground.

Most states in India are loosening restrictions related to Covid, though you should still expect to wear face masks in public places.

Is it safe to travel to India?

For most parts of India, there is no UK Foreign Office advice to avoid travel — the only areas to which all travel is advised against are the majority of contested Jammu and Kashmir, and right by the border with Pakistan, except the crossing at Wagah with its popular daily closing ceremony. It also currently advises against all but essential travel to the state of Manipur, except the state capital Imphal and the Meiti Valley areas.

The FCDO has given countrywide warnings about the risk of terrorism; for context, the threat level described for India is the same as that for France . India is a large and complex country, so the list of safety advice is a long one. It’s worth reading up on the specific regions you plan to travel to and being aware of any political disturbances.

• Do I have to wear a face mask on a plane?

Where should I go when I’m there?

Trying to take in a cross-section of India in one trip is a real challenge: the country is almost 2,000 miles from the north to its southern tip, from high-altitude glaciers to swaying coconut palms. Most visitors prefer to focus on one of a number of traditional circuits, or combine two on a longer itinerary of two or three weeks. The most popular route is a loop of Delhi, Agra (home to the Taj Mahal) and cities in Rajasthan such as Jaipur and Udaipur on a more culturally focused tour. If beaches and lusher landscapes are holiday essentials, Kerala is the star of southern India.

Other popular regions and themes to focus on include spotting tigers and other wildlife in central Madhya Pradesh, or riding mountain railways and sipping tea in the foothills of the Himalayas. You don’t have to journey to remote regions to get off the well-furrowed track: though cinematic Mumbai and spiritual Varanasi are tourism mainstays, even a city with the heritage of Kolkata is somewhat overlooked by non-Indians, as are significant states such as Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. If you’re prepared to travel away from major hubs, you’ll get to places that tug at notions of what “India” is: Nagaland with its tribal cultures, Sikkim on the borders of Tibet, and the distant and jungle-clad Andaman Islands.

• The best festivals in India • The best places to visit in India

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Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in India

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

These services provide support in English, Hindi and additional languages.

You can also download the 112 India mobile app which can track your location to support response in an emergency.

Indian Ministry of Tourism Helpline

Telephone: 1800 11 1363

The tourism helpline provides:

• advice on reputable sites and services
• the option to make a complaint about a company

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO provides guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in India
• dealing with a death in India
• being arrested in India
• getting help if you’re a victim of rape or sexual assault abroad or victim of rape or sexual assault in India
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• If you are in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Find more support for British nationals abroad .

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

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If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate, or high commission .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

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The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks

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Can I travel to India from the UK? Entry requirements, Covid tests and quarantine rules explained

Uk nationals arriving in india must quarantine for 10 days and take three pcr tests under new rules that mirror the restrictions faced by indian nationals entering the uk.

A tit-for-tat travel row between London and Delhi over the recognition of vaccines administered in India means that quarantine-free holidays to India are off the cards for UK visitors.

As of Monday 4 October, UK nationals arriving in India must quarantine for 10 days and take three PCR tests under new rules that mirror the restrictions faced by Indian nationals entering the UK.

What are the current travel rules to India?

As of Monday 4 October, travellers from the UK arriving in India, irrespective of vaccine status, must do the following.

Pre-departure

• Submit a self-declaration form online at newdelhiairport.in .
• Upload a negative PCR result from a test conducted within 72 hours prior to boarding.

On arrival in India

• Take a PCR test at the airport (at traveller’s own cost)
• Take a PCR test on day eight (at traveller’s own cost)
• Abide by a mandatory quarantine at home or at the destination address for 10 days after arrival

On return arrival to the UK

India was removed from the UK’s red list on Sunday 8 August, meaning that UK residents vaccinated in the UK do not need to self isolate on return to Britain.

• A single PCR test on or before day two following arrival in the UK is required. PCR tests are due to be scrapped in favour of the faster, cheaper antigen tests by the end month.

Why did India impose its new restrictions on UK arrivals?

The regulations come in response to the Government’s refusal to recognise the vaccination status of anyone vaccinated in India – a decision believed to have been made due to concerns over the country’s vaccine certification system.

Britain’s policy means that Indian nationals arriving in the UK are treated as unvaccinated and must therefore quarantine for 10 days, take a PCR test before departure, another test on or before day two, and a further test on day eight.

The Indian government has retaliated with identical restrictions.

Why does the UK not recognise vaccinations administered in India, and could this change?

Alex Ellis, British High Commissioner to India, has said that the UK government does not have a problem with Covishield, the Indian-made version of AstraZeneca’s Vaxzevria jab, but with Indian vaccination certificates.

“We’re clear Covishield is not a problem,” Mr Ellis said. “We have been having detailed technical discussions regarding certification, with the builders of the CoWIN app and the NHS app, about both apps.

“They’re happening at a rapid pace, to ensure that both countries mutually recognise the vaccine certificates issued by each other”.

Following India’s decision to impose reciprocal measures, the British High Commission spokesperson in India said that the UK is “continuing to engage” with India “to expand UK recognition of vaccine certification”.

EU nations including Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Greece, Ireland, Spain and Estonia have all confirmed that they will recognise vaccines authorised in India.

Iceland and Switzerland have also agreed to do the same.

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India Travel Guide

India is a vast and diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery, wildlife and a wide range of experiences to offer.

India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. The country has a population of over 1.2 billion people, its capital is Delhi and there are 22 major languages in India and over 700 dialects. 

The country is the birthplace of major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Ever since ancient times people would journey to India from afar to trade for spices, the country is still the leading producer and it continues to influence the culinary landscape worldwide. India is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites and architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, which offers a glimpse to the mighty Mughal Empire.

Many westerners in the 1960s and 1970s travelled to India on the famous hippie trail seeking adventure, spiritualism and enlightenment. Even to this day, India has retained its mysticism and intrigues many people to visit. 

We've outlined some general information that may be helpful to you when planning your next holiday to India .

Time Zone & Currency

The entire country is in the same time zone and is 5.5 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The currency in India is the Rupee.

Weather in India

The weather is mainly hot most of the year, with regional variations. Weather is coolest from around the end of November to early March, with fresh mornings and evenings and mostly sunny days.

Reading For Your Trip To India

The White Tiger by Arivand Adiga 

A Passage to India by E. M. Forester 

The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling 

Best time to go to India

We suggest visiting from October to April, as the temperatures are usually mild with little rain, the ideal conditions for sightseeing. Monsoon rains occur in most regions between June and early October. 

Book your India holiday

Top Tourist Attractions In India

One of the new 7 Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum in the Indian city of Agra. The Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan commissioned this iconic building to house the tomb of his favourite wife.

The Amber Fort is a magnificent historical fortress located near Jaipur, in India. The fort has a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.

Goa Beaches

Goa's pristine beaches are renowned for their golden sands and laid back atmosphere, a perfect place for relaxation. 

Ranthambore National Park

A former hunting ground for the Maharajas, it's now a renowned wildlife sanctuary and one of the country's premier tiger reserves. 

What is India's Golden Triangle?

The Golden Triangle is an iconic tourist route which takes in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, it's a great way to see some of the top sights of India. 

Top Things to do in India

From taking a rickshaw ride though the vibrant streets of Delhi to seeing a classical Indian dance performance of Kathakali, there's plenty to experience in this colourful country.

Food and drink in India

The food in India is just as colourful as its history. Dishes are rich, varied and brought to life by the use of herbs and spices. Every cook has their own ‘garam masala’ spice mix. Food is an important part of the culture and the cuisine varies across the regions. In the north of India there is a focus on meaty dishes and kebabs, while the southern regions favour vegetable curries and dosas (filled rice-flour pancakes). Most hotels provide varied buffets, with a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Tea fans will enjoy a cup of Chai; a sweet, milky tea drink, fragrant with fresh cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and pepper. Kingfisher beer can be a refreshing accompaniment for spicy food.

India Travel Guide FAQs

Can you give a brief history of india.

One of the oldest religions that can be traced back thousands of years, Hinduism is believed to have been founded in northwest India. Various dynasties ruled different parts of India, like the Cholas in the south and the Delhi Sultanate in the north, but the most famous was the Mughal Empire (1526-1857) which also encompassed modern day Pakistan, Bangladesh and parts of Afghanistan.  Founded by Babur who had a policy for religious tolerance and integration, which his decedents followed suit. They were also great patrons for art and literature. The legacy of the Mughal can still be seen today with their exquisite architecture like the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, and the Red Fort in Delhi. The Colonial Era (1600-1947) saw various European countries like Portugal, The Netherlands and France establishing trading posts. Eventually the British East India Company gained significant control and the British colonial rule began in the mid 18th century.  An uprising took place, the Indian Rebellion of 1857, but this was suppressed and the British monarchy took over from the East India Company in 1858. Eventually i n 1947 India gained independence from Britain mostly due to the successful non-violent campaign led by Mahatma Gandhi. Today India is a popular travel destination full of cultural and historical gems. 

Do I need a holiday visa for India?

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. The visa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival in India. E-visa applicants can apply online 120 days before the date of travel. Once completed, you must print your E-visa and carry a copy with you.

Is India safe?

The places visited on your itinerary are generally safe and our guides will always keep an eye out for you. However, in any large city there can be opportunists and pickpockets. It is wise to be vigilant, especially at busy tourist attractions, and always take good care of your personal belongings. Make use of the safe at your hotel, and carry a photocopy of your passport when out and about. Always take extra care when using public transport.

What kind of plugs / sockets are used in India?

In India the power sockets are of type C, D and M. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. To avoid any issues upon arrival we always recommend travelling with a universal adapteras this will be able to work in any country you visit.

What should I pack for my trip to India?

Wear loose-fitting and lightweight clothing, be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. India has a relatively relaxed dress code, however, care should be taken not to give offence by wearing clothing which may be considered revealing, especially when visiting religious sites. It's polite to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship, so make sure you bring ones that are comfortable and easily removable.  We recommend you carry your own loo paper and hand sanitiser as some public toilets will lack basic facilities. 

Useful Links

• For up-to-date information regarding entry into India please see: www.gov.uk
• Official India Tourism Board: Incredible India!

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National Conference of  State Tourism Secretaries

Ministry of Tourism, Government of India participated in World Travel Market (WTM) 2023, London from 6 - 8 November 2023.

PATA Travel Mart 2023

Statue of Unity- Gujarat

Somnath Temple, Gujarat

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• Monthly Summary for the Month of February, 2024.
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The Ministry of Tourism is running a scheme under which National Tourism Awards are given to Travel Agents and Tour Operators including best Adventure Tour Operator, best Domestic Tour Operator, most Innovative Tour Operator ,Best Mice Operator, Tourist Transport Operator, best Hotels in the different categories, Outstanding performers in Publishing, etc. Awards are also given to the meritorious students of the institutes of Hotel Management and Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management.

Upcoming events

DGQI Documents

Other documents.

Guidelines on procedure on Parliamentary matters

Compliance of order of the Hon'ble Supreme Court in the matter of Shri Anuj Goyal vs UOI & Ors

Best Practices for Information Technology Security

Statement containing brief Activities of the Ministry of Tourism, 

For Hiring of Manpower Agency

Period 2014-2015

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What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.

Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

Whether it’s getting a feel for our vibrant cultural cities, embarking on a coastal adventure, or discovering locations made famous by film and TV, it’s time to experience Britain differently.

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Explore different

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We’re spilling the tea on the hottest experiences – and it’s not just a good old brew that we’re mad about.

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Grab your tickets, or a spot by a screen, and join the atmosphere of brilliant British sport.

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Day trips from London

Britain packs a punch when it comes to the eclectic range of destinations within close proximity to London.

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How to see Britain differently

From gastronomic adventures to eco-friendly stays, there’s always more to explore on Britain’s shores.

VisitBritain - The official tourism website of Great Britain

Providing you with inspirational activities and experiences, from those in the know.

Your guidance and information about travelling to Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Helping the travel industry showcase the best of Britain.

Cultural hotspots

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

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World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

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Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

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Pushing the boundaries of art and culture and a heart that beats through its people.

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An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

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Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

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Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

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Imagine a country where ancient castles guard mysterious lochs and emerald glens, and where the local spirit is as warm as the welcome.

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Delve into a world of dragons, renowned choirs, championship rugby, and some of the most spellbinding scenery Britain has to offer.

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Get swept up in a world of ancient myths and modern-day legends, from the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones to the vibrant buzz of Belfast.

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What are you looking for?

Travellers from India made 21.8 million outbound visits in 2019, with a total international tourism expenditure of US$22.9 billion.

In 2022, the UK welcomed 516,484 visits from India. During the travellers’ visits, their total expenditure was £764.32 million, with an average spend of £1,480 per person.

Discover visitor behaviour, travel trade insights, detailed data visualisations for this market – and more. The statistics in this market report are collated from a range of sources such as the Office for National Statistics (ONS), as well as sponsored questions and our own research. For further details, see How we source this information .

Visitor characteristics

In 2022, there were almost more than twice as many male than female visitors from India. Two-in-three visits were made by Indian residents aged 25-54 years old.

33% of holiday visitors (excluding British expats) are making a repeat visit to Britain (within ten years).

Just over half of the visits from India to Britain are made by people who reside in the Maharashtra and Delhi states.

86% of departing Indians (excluding British expats) say they are ‘extremely likely’ to recommend Britain for a visit, above the 82% average across all markets.

Popular activities for this market

Dining in a restaurant.

Sightseeing of famous buildings and monuments.

Going shopping.

Explore the inbound data in full

Use our visualisations to see data from this market in greater depth and clarity. Compare annual statistics, and filter by age group, gender, trip duration and more. Includes seasonality, trip purpose and regional spread of visitors to UK destinations. This data is based on the International Passenger Survey, conducted by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Please click on the button below and select the country you are interested in.

Perceptions of Britain in the Indian market

Those in India have a generally positive view of Britain. According to the 2022 Anholt Nation Brands Index, they ranked Britain fifth for its nation brand among 60 nations overall, fourth for ‘culture’ and fifth for ‘people’.

For Indian respondents, the cultural products or services they most expect to be produced in Britain are ‘films’, ‘museums’ and ‘modern design’.

Indian respondents expect that a trip to Britain would be ‘exciting’ and ‘educational’.

Global context

Top-level statistics relating to the population, GDP, tourism expenditure and popular destinations for this market. For greater detail on inbound tourism flows from this market to the UK, see our data visualisations .

Key demographic and economic data

Caring for visitors.

Family is extremely important in Indian life. Visitors will often ask for family suites or interconnecting rooms.

The use of the ‘Namaste’, a greeting with folded hands, is usually appreciated among Indian guests. It is best to wait for your guest to extend their first to shake it.

Many Indians are vegetarian and teetotallers, and it is vital that a good variety of vegetarian options are made available on menus.

Leisure visitors from India are less likely than those from the average market to use a credit card while in Britain.

Whilst many visitors from India speak good English, some may have issues understanding slang or accents.

The leisure and travel trade

The travel trade changes slowly in India. It still plays a pivotal role in booking outbound travel while online booking is mainly popular for domestic travel. Digital sources are used mostly for travel inspiration and destination information.

Brochures are planned and produced in December or January. Discussions should ideally begin one year in advance, but can still occur in October or November as last-minute itinerary changes are common.

Telephone contact and face-to-face interaction is appreciated, as well as the provision of brochures.

Access to Britain from India

The key routes and transport modes that connect this market with the UK.

Of all the airlines operating the India to Britain route in 2023, British Airways and Air India served the most departing seats, with a combined share of 71%.

In 2023, the routes connecting Delhi and Mumbai to London Heathrow served the most departing seats, with a combined share of 72%.

The highest rate of flight departures in 2023 are set to take place in October to December.

In 2023, seat capacity for the full year is set to exceed pre-COVID levels (2019) by 34%.

The current reduced Air Passenger Duty for visitors departing Britain for India is £87.

Further resources

India market profile 2021, india market snapshot.pdf, india aviation profile, india covid-19 travel sentiment, where visitors from india to the uk reside in their own country, how indian travellers use social media on holidays compared with travellers from other countries, indian visa research, perceived barriers to exploring britain beyond london for indian visitors, how we source this information.

We work with a number of data sources to provide a rich and insightful picture of our key inbound source markets. This includes, but is not limited to, data provided by Oxford Economics, the UNWTO, Apex, Anholt-Ipsos Nation Brands Index and from our own surveys and ad-hoc research. The largest share of the data come from the International Passenger Survey (IPS) by the ONS.

Visit our About the International Passenger Survey page for more information on how the data is collected and analysed. 

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See the latest market data for Bahrain – including traveller visits and spend, length of stay, behaviours and preferences.

See the latest market data for Israel – including traveller visits and spend, length of stay, behaviours and preferences.

See the latest market data for Kuwait – including traveller visits and spend, length of stay, behaviours and preferences

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Everything you need to inspire your clients. Discover new products, experiences and itinerary ideas – plus useful resources and the latest market insights.

Reach new customers and increase your profitability. Drive sales with our tools, events and training, find out about quality assessment and get expert guidance from the England Business Advice Hub.

Build sustainable and valuable growth. Learn about England’s new destination management structure, find expert advice, and boost your proposition with our training and toolkits.

Access resources for business events to support your business development and event strategy. Discover England, Scotland and Wales' business event offering for your next conference, incentive, exhibition or event.

Discover our media centres, image and video library and latest press releases, plus contacts for our corporate and consumer press teams.

Studying tourism at school, college or university? We’ve gathered essential resources and data for students of tourism, plus information about our internships.

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India seeks UK carbon tax exemption in free trade deal talks

Exclusive: India seeking to use approach of UK election as bargaining chip and any exemption would be controversial

India is demanding an exemption from the UK’s planned carbon tax as part of negotiations aiming to finalise a free trade deal before the UK election.

India’s negotiating team have spent this week in London in a surprise set of talks to try to overcome the remaining hurdles to an agreement.

Rishi Sunak is eager to get the trade deal over the line and had hoped to clinch it last month.

India has used the limited time Sunak has left before a general election as a bargaining chip. A UK government official said Indian negotiators were “saying they have five years to plan ahead, this government has five months”.

The talks are taking place as India’s six-week general election campaign, starting on Friday, is about to get under way. Opinion polls in India suggest Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata party will win for the third time running. UK polling, meanwhile, suggests Sunak’s Conservative party is on course for a defeat.

India’s commerce minister said on Monday that there were “very few pending issues” and that a deal was close to being finalised.

The UK government official, who has been briefed on progress in the talks, said India was asking to be exempted from the UK’s planned carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) on the basis that it is a developing country.

India had raised concerns about the application of a CBAM – a planned tax on the import of carbon-intensive goods such as steel, glass and fertiliser – at an earlier stage in the talks. The tax would affect Indian steelmakers looking to export to the UK.

Any decision to exempt India from a carbon tax would be controversial. The plans are designed to reduce emissions and support UK steel producers by levelling the playing field with countries that have a lower or no carbon levy.

The discussions this week continue the 14th formal round of negotiations between the UK and India. The round was declared closed last month before India’s election campaign, but a second UK government official said it was kept open at India’s request.

The discussions this week, which involve India’s chief trade negotiator, have been kept under wraps in the UK but made it into the Indian press.

India has also been asking for more concessions on visas for Indian workers and a social security agreement, both longstanding issues in the negotiations. The talks in London are due to conclude on Friday but may continue remotely next week.

Before the talks on Monday, India’s commerce secretary, Sunil Barthwal, told the media: “A team is going to the UK this week. There are very few pending issues left in the negotiation. A couple of key priority issues to seal the deal are being ironed out to have a balanced outcome.”

India is a notoriously tough negotiator on trade. Last month its government signed a £79bn trade deal with the European Free Trade Association, a bloc made up of Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, 16 years after talks began.

The UK and India launched trade negotiations in January 2022 while Boris Johnson was prime minister. Johnson said he wanted the deal to be “done by Diwali” in October 2022, but that deadline has been overshot by 18 months.

A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson said: “The UK and India continue to work towards an ambitious trade deal that works for both countries. While we don’t comment on the details of live negotiations, there are no plans to change our immigration policy to achieve this free trade agreement. The business and trade secretary has always been clear she will only sign a deal that is fair, balanced and ultimately in the best interests of the British people and the economy.”

• Trade policy

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