tips to travel to india

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I’ve never been to India. I know. Crazy, right? It’s not that I don’t want to go but life has just always gotten in the way. However, India is a place a lot of people visit and, since I can’t write about it, I want to bring in someone who can: my friend Mariellen Ward. She’d a travel writer who has been going to India since 2005 and runs the website Breathedreamgo . We’ve known each other since 2010. Today, she’s going to share some tips on how to visit India for first-time visitors.

I will never forget my first time visiting India. My first car trip in Delhi felt like a roller-coaster ride. Cars and trucks of every size, overloaded bicycles and motorcycles, and even the occasional bullock cart, seemed to be coming at me from every direction. No one was paying any attention to lanes or the rules of the road. Vehicles were driving the wrong way. I couldn’t make sense of what was happening.

I had heard about the “sensory overload” travelers feel in India, and now I was experiencing it. It was exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. And just a taste of things to come.

I spent six months crisscrossing the subcontinent on my first trip, back in 2005 and was often overwhelmed by the huge crowds, the foreign traditions, the perplexing bureaucracy, the mind-boggling complexity, and the bewildering culture shock.

These things combined make India a challenging — though very exciting and rewarding —destination.

However, if you read and follow these travel tips for first-time visitors, they could help smooth out some of the more disorienting bumps.

1. Slow down

It takes time and some know-how to successfully navigate in India. This is not a place for hurried travel. Don’t try and see as much as you can; that is not the right approach. It’s tiring to travel in India, and the object should be to experience it, not to check things off a list.

As a general rule, for every two weeks you are in India, pick one region. For a one-month trip, just pick two regions — say, two weeks in Rajasthan and two weeks in Kerala . You can even sit in one place and still not miss anything. No matter what, if you are in India, you will experience India.

2. Adjust your attitude

Likewise, accept that things will not go as planned. Cultivate the philosophy that things happen the way they are supposed to, not the way they are planned. This attitude can lead to the most marvelous adventures.

3. Be careful who you trust

Having said that it’s a good idea to be open, a healthy level of skepticism also comes in really handy in India. There are many con men there, especially in the travel and hospitality sector. They have a sixth sense for first-time visitors and will try and take advantage.

So, learn the prices by asking locals and other travelers before negotiating with auto-rickshaw drivers and market vendors. Don’t believe drivers — or random people you come across at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions — who tell you things such as your hotel burned down, or the train you want was canceled.

Often, an opportunity to make money off of you will spur creative tactics, and some of these scams can easily catch you off guard. Once, I was looking for a new iPhone case and the vendor showed me one and told me it was made by Apple. But a close look revealed four spelling mistakes in one short sentence engraved inside the case.

4. Practice safe travel

There are also anecdotal reports of women being molested, especially in busy, crowded places. Follow basic precautions and safe travel strategies, and use common sense in India.

Here are several safety travel tips (please read my top tips for women traveling in India for more details):

• Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch.
• Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels.
• Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only.
• Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location.
• Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage.
• Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363.

5. Try a small group tour

For your first time in India, try taking a small group or custom tour to help you get your feet wet. My company, India for Beginners , was founded to help women travel safely and well in India. We offer a few small group tours, but we specialize in creating custom tours and providing a high level of personal service, such as meeting travelers at the airport and assigning a tour manager who is available 24/7. We hold your hand in India!

6. Take the train

Taking a train in India is a great experience and should not be missed. However, you need some basic knowledge about the classes and the trains. You may not want to dive into sleeper class or general class immediately; I would recommend 2AC (second class with air conditioning) or CC (chair car). Or even 1AC (first class with air conditioning) or EC (executive chair car).

Shatabdi and Rajdhani trains are among the best in India, so try and book one of these. Overnight trains can be a problem because they don’t clean the toilets at night, so keep that in mind when you book.

7. Eat the food

India is one of the world’s great culinary destinations, and first-time visitors should not shy away from trying all the delicious cuisine on offer, even street food. Some of the famous Indian items you shouldn’t miss are masala chai, sweet lassi, biryani, pakoras, dosas, and sweets such as gulab jamun and kheer.

It’s hard to avoid getting sick in India, though, because you never know when a tainted item will cross your plate. It could be at a street stall or a five-star restaurant. However, you can reduce the chances of getting sick by following these basic rules:

• Drink filtered or bottled water only.
• Watch for undistilled water in ice or sauces.
• Avoid salad and other raw food unless you can peel it (such as an orange or banana).
• Eat only food that is freshly cooked.
• Look for busy stalls and restaurants with high turnover.

8. Get a local SIM card

Everything in India runs on WhatsApp, one-time password (OTP) verification, and text messages. Because of this, you need a local number. To do so, get a local SIM at the airport when you arrive. Still, you may have trouble paying for things online with a foreign credit card, as India requires OTP verification, and getting registered with Indian Railways so you buy train tickets online is nearly impossible.

9. Remember where you are

For example, unless you’re on the beach in Goa, it’s wise to wear modest clothing in India . Long, loose, and flowing are key for dressing for the climate and the culture.

It’s also best to be very respectful, especially with regard to the myriad religions. And be aware that genders relate differently in India, and overfriendliness can be misconstrued. Be polite, but with strangers, and especially those working in the hospitality sector, it’s usually best to dial back effusive friendliness.

10. Follow the seasons

Weather and the season matter in India. It’s incredibly hot almost everywhere in May and June, the monsoon season is July to August, and it’s surprisingly cold in north India in winter, December to February. Do some research and find out the best places to visit in India by season .

So, when it’s cold in north India, head down to tropical Kerala or Goa and hit the beach. In the heat of summer, check out Ladakh, a high desert plateau that sometimes seems otherworldly. Note: Fall is festival season, so you can experience Durga Puja in Kolkata, Diwali in Jaipur, or the Camel Fair in Pushkar.

11. Visit attractions in the morning

(However, this rule does not apply to shopping. Stores, and even restaurants, tend not to open until 10 or even 11 am. Urban Indians tend to do everything late. Breakfast and lunch are late, and dinner can be very late indeed.)

12. Head into the countryside

You can go trekking in the mountains, take a tiger safari , visit one of the many national parks, camp out overnight on a sand dune in Rajasthan, or take a boat cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

And don’t forget the rural areas. Most Indians still live in villages. It’s really worthwhile to meander through the quaint villages of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, or Uttarakhand.

India is not an easy place to travel. It’s not a relaxing vacation destination. It is, though, an experience — often a life-changing experience. Start by doing research, read books about India , watch movies about the country, learn about the cultures and various destinations, and get ready for a transformative travel experience.

Like many before you — from The Beatles to Steve Jobs to Elizabeth Gilbert — you may just fall in love with the place. As writer Rumer Godden said, “Once you have felt the dust of India, you will never be free of it.”

Mariellen Ward fell in love with India, with travel, and with travel blogging on her first trip to the country in 2005. She has spent more than seven years of the last 18 in India, and now lives there. Though Canadian by birth, Mariellen considers India to be her “soul culture.” With her travel blog, Breathedreamgo , she tries to encourage and help other female travelers to go after their dreams. And her custom tour company, India for Beginners , is dedicated to helping women travel safely and well in India.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

Protect Your Trip »

10 Things Every Traveler Must Know Before Visiting India

Simple tips to help you navigate the country without feeling overwhelmed.

Getty Images

Conducting plenty of research, obtaining a visa well in advance and packing conservative clothing are just a few steps you should take before your trip.

Beautiful, chaotic, colorful, inspiring ... India is a place unlike any other, offering an incredible contrast of sights, smells, sounds and tastes. It's a country that will undoubtedly get under your skin – one way or another. But as enthralling as it can be, it also can cause culture shock and can leave even the most seasoned of travelers overwhelmed. To keep your trip enlightening, not exhausting, keep these tips in mind when traveling to India's vibrant cities, breathtaking coastlines and enchanting countryside locations.

Research, Research, Research

India houses a diverse range of bustling destinations and can't-miss attractions – from majestic temples to striking natural landmarks to superlative beaches and lively cities. Instead of trying to see it all on one trip, pick one part of the country to focus on and get immersed in it. For a taste of classic India, head to the Golden Triangle, which touches three of the country's most famous destinations: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Or, spend time in India's southern states to explore stunning beaches along Goa's coast or visit Mumbai's vibrant city center. Alternatively, you can head to India's northern and central regions for some of the country's most fascinating religious relics and sites, like the marble temples of Rajasthan or the carved edifices of Khajuraho.  

Be Mindful of What You Eat

"Delhi belly" isn't just a myth, but a real ailment many visitors leave with after indulging in too many curries and street-side snacks. Although there's a high chance you'll experience some gastrointestinal discomfort while you visit, you can avoid serious illness (or spending your vacation holed up in your hotel) by staying mindful of everything you eat. Avoid most street food carts (as they often don't follow strict health codes), eat only peeled fruits and vegetables and try to eat food that's been only boiled or fried. And when it comes to water, don't drink from the tap and skip the ice.

Stay in a Reputable Hotel

This is especially true for first-timers, particularly those without extensive international travel under their belt. There's no denying India's great cities can be dangerous, so booking a stay in a hotel brand you know will take the stress out of visiting the bedazzling cities. The Grand Hyatt Mumbai and the Grand Hyatt Goa, for example, offer homey amenities, like elegant fine dining establishments, spacious rooms and an English-speaking staff.

Bring Your Camera

India is a street photographer's dream for a reason. There's so much to see and capture at any given moment. Your camera will showcase moments, experiences and encounters that you're too busy to notice, like a little boy picking up fruit at a street stall or an elderly woman looking up from a massive pile of saris. Plus, you'll leave with impressive photos to share stories of your incredible adventures when you return back home.

Enter With an Open Mind

Nothing can prepare you for the traffic of Mumbai or Delhi, where you'll dodge and weave past tuk tuks and minibuses or when you reach a stoplight and children approach your car, banging on the car windows for food and money. There's no way to equip yourself for everything you're going to see, feel or hear during your time, so brace yourself for the unexpected by traveling  with an open mind and taking everything as it comes.

Although some areas accept credit cards, the primary currency across India is cash – especially once you reach the more rural parts of India. To avoid extra hassles, bring plenty of cash for cabs and tuks tuks, for restaurants and markets and especially for shopping. Many of the city bazaars (bustling shopping centers) are a shopper's paradise, so don't skip picking up those Sri Lanka cinnamon sticks or that homespun elephant scarf due to a lack of funds.

Explore Outside the Cities

Home to more than a billion residents, India can certainly be described as crowded and bustling. However, the densest populations can be found in the big cities, offering some refuge for weary travelers in the countryside. Instead of spending your entire trip in a city, spend just a few days taking in urban areas before recharging your batteries along the backwaters of Kerala or getting lost in the expansive, rolling desert hills of Zanskar, where the only other people you'll see are farmers and nomads.

Obtaining a visa is a must. In fact, India requires U.S. citizens to have a visa before entering the country and most embassies require at least one month's notice to prepare one. However, if you're in a bind, you can apply for one online for a heftier fee. Just keep in mind that you'll have to wait in a different line once reaching the Indian airport if you come in with a e-visa. Prices vary, but usually stay around $60 to $70 for a short-term visa.

Dress Conservatively

India's culture, like many other Southeast Asian countries, is conservative-leaning, so plan ahead when you're packing your bags. Bring scarves and long pants for covering arms and legs when visiting religious sites, and opt for regular t-shirts in lieu of V-necks. Also, it's common to remove shoes when you enter someone's home or a temple, so bring socks if you'd prefer not to go barefoot.

Stay Cognizant of Your Surroundings

This rule of thumb applies to almost every city you visit, but is especially important when traveling abroad. Because of high poverty levels and the overcrowding in some of India's biggest cities, pickpocketing is a frequent occurrence. Avoid being a victim of theft by carrying small bags with a hearty zipper that can wrap around your shoulder, and don't put money, cell phones or keys in your pockets. If you have to walk late at night, walk with a companion, whether it's a guide, a friend or a family member. And always, stay calm. It's easy to get caught up in the chaos of it all, so let yourself have some moments of reflection before reacting.

Tags: Travel , India

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best luggage brands.

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

John Rodwan April 17, 2024

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

Best Alaska Tours

Lyn Mettler April 16, 2024

The Best Fredericksburg Wine Tours

The Best Personal Item Bags

Rachael Hood April 16, 2024

The 17 Best Costa Rica Tours

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

201 India Travel Tips: The FREE Beginners Guide (2024)

How to Survive Travel to India as a Beginner, What to Eat & Drink, Women-Specific Tips, Scams to Avoid & Everything Else You Need to Know

We’re Asher & Lyric.

We’ve traveled to India over 10 times during the past 10 years (that’s us pictured). It’s one of our favorite places on Earth – we absolutely love it!

Here’s the deal :

Tips for eating in India to avoid sickness:

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for eating Indian food safely.

1) Only eat freshly cooked food. This is the best way to avoid getting sick due to bacteria or a parasite. Cooking kills everything.

2) Don’t eat salads, juices or anything raw. Uncooked food will inevitably be washed with contaminated water which will make you go running for the toilet. If you’re a raw foodist, I recommend you change your diet while in India.

3) Eat exclusively from respectable restaurants that are busy. Also try the 4 and 5 star hotels if you want to be certain of amazingly delicious, safe food.

5) Probiotics and charcoal are amazing. Probiotics boost the good bacteria in your stomach, improve digestion and increase natural immunity. They are a must before traveling to India and especially during your travels. Charcoal tablets on the other hand are an incredibly effective way of stopping diarrhea and preventing dysentery. It quickly absorbs the toxins or pathogens that are causing the problem. As always, be sure to get advice form your doctor.

6) Avoid too much spicy food, especially chilli’s. Some spices are good but in my experience chilli’s act as a laxative which is probably something you don’t want.

7) Consider becoming a vegetarian while you’re there. India has the lowest meat consumption rates in the world (see graph below). The meat I’ve seen looks very unsafe, often hanging in the warm, open air with flies buzzing around. In fact, due to Hindu religious reasons, the state of Maharashtra has banned beef altogether. If you can, I recommend being a vegetarian while in India to reduce the chances of getting serious food poisoning.

8) Don’t overeat. It will weaken your digestion and immunity which makes you an easy target for bacteria. To help with my digestion and overall health I also take Organic Amla Berry tablets and another immunity boosting, ayurvedic herb called Bio-Immune .

10) Local’s restaurants offer all-you-can-eat meals for $1! Be wary of hygiene and only go to the best, busy restaurants you can find. Get advice from the locals.

11) Family home dining is a pleasure but take precautions. I’ve had the best food of my life at peoples homes. Again, it is important to be cautious and don’t drink tap water, only have cooked food. Also don’t eat too fast because they will keep piling the food on your plate and expect you to eat it and even force-feed you if you’re not careful! 🙂

– Doug Rexford , India travel expert & Himalayan monk with the Maharishi Purusha Program .

Read my full article for more details: 9 Tips for Eating in India as a Tourist Who Avoids Getting Sick Back to top

How to deal with water while traveling in India

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for drinking water in India.

13) Only drink bottled water. All the tap water in India is contaminated with pollutants and amoebas. By only drinking good bottled mineral water you will help avoid getting sick. The only brands I recommend are Bisleri, Kinley & Aquafina. Other brands are not trustworthy .

14) Stay well hydrated. India is typically hot and dry. Drink at least 2 liters (1/2 gallon) per day to stay healthy and strong.

15) If you’re trekking, bring a water filter. In rare cases where bottled water isn’t available such as while trekking, you’ll need a Katadyn Pocket Water Filter or at least a LifeStraw so that you can get safe water from flowing rivers. Boil it as well if possible and you can also use Iodine tablets to be extra safe.

17) Chai is great in the early morning. Chai is good for digestion because it has ginger and cardamom added. It should be safe to drink as long as you see them boiling it and you’re certain the cup is clean. Price should be no more than 10 rupees.

18) Coca-Cola can be a godsend. There’s a popular folklore that Coke kills bacteria and aids a disturbed stomach. This may or may not be true but it sure is nice to have a cold Coke on a hot afternoon in India!

19) Electrolytes are a must. If you get dysentery, electrolytes are a must for staying hydrated. I recommend bringing one box from home because otherwise they can be low quality and taste a bit nasty if bought in India.

20) Avoid ice in drinks. Since the ice is most likely created from a poor quality water source I advise you to not have any drinks with ice in it. If the drink such as Coke has been chilled in the fridge, that is of course fine.

22) Shower with care. Don’t open your mouth or eyes in the shower to help avoid the water getting in any unwanted orifice.

23) Bathe in holy rivers at your own risk. Taking a dip in the Ganges can be a magical experience but again, close your eyes and mouth and block your nose and ears to avoid getting too much water in the wrong hole.

– Matt Pelletier , travel blogger at Traveling Monkeys .

Read my full article for more details: 9 Tips for Safe Drinking Water in India – A Tourists Perspective Back to top

How to NOT get scammed or ripped off in India

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for avoiding scams in India.

25) Know that a “gift” can quickly turn into a sale. No matter what the “gift” is, be sure it is actually a gift before accepting it. Otherwise you can be quickly hit with a bill.

26) All shop keepers will try to rip you off. A simple way to minimize this is to only go to “fixed rate” shops, bring a local with you or you’ll need to quickly learn how to bargain like an Indian .

27) Don’t give money to beggars. This can attract an army of beggars after you and helps sustain their often drug-driven “profession”.

29) Learn to avoid fake “information offices”. The way to know is that everything looks dodgy, there are no computers (or not many), no proper desks and they tell you that all trains or hotels are fully booked out due to some “event”. This can be a front for the mafia so be careful and make sure it’s legit before following directions from them.

30) Children may want pens and beggars want milk. In both cases, they often have an arrangement with a shop to return the item for cash after you leave!

31) Trinket and gemstone scams. At any tourist location there are likely to be people touting trinkets and sometimes gemstones for sale. Unless you’re buying something as a souvenir don’t entertain their hype and always bargain them way down. The “gemstones” won’t have real value and can be a popular scam for unsuspecting tourists.

32) Watch out for people tampering with food or drink. Always check beverage bottle caps to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with and don’t accept food from strangers.

33) Be careful when exchanging money. ATM’s are the safest way to get cash because the machine won’t scam you. 🙂

35) Keep away from the mafia. If something is fishy then it probably is a scam or trap (sometimes organized by the mafia). Do your research and have your wits about you especially around train stations, popular tourist attractions (e.g Taj Mahal) and cheap hotels.

Also please note: I recently wrote an article explaining the 9 key reasons why you need to have good travel insurance for India .

36) Get experience with true local pricing. To do this, you’ll need to know what the locals would pay for the same product or service and then you’ll know how low the shop keeper, driver or hotel etc is willing to go. An Indian friend (or stranger) or guide can help you with this.

37) SIM cards for your cell phone might not work. It can be surprisingly difficult to get a SIM card in India and usually involves quite a lot of paper work. If you don’t fill out the paperwork correctly there is a good chance that you got scammed with a defunct or used SIM card. To avoid this, I recommend getting your SIM from an official office of the carrier such as Airtel or Idea.

38) Do your research before arriving at a particular place. Look up your destination on the Internet, study maps, get advice from other travelers and read the latest Lonely Planet guide book. This will help you get insider knowledge before you arrive, making you more prepared to deal with the possible onslaught of scams that await you.

Read my full article for more details: Biggest scams in India to watch out for

Also check out my article on doing business in India Back to top

A sample packing list for India travel

See our full India packing list for more tips on what to bring and what to wear when going on a trip to India.

1. Neck Wallet

I keep my money and credit cards in this pouch under my shirt so that I don’t have to have a wallet in my pocket. I have had beggars put their hand in my pocket and have found this small concealed passport pouch invaluable.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Charcoal tablets

They’re an incredibly effective way of stopping diarrhea and preventing dysentery (Delhi Belly). It quickly absorbs the toxins or pathogens that are causing the problem and keeps you strong. As always, be sure to get advice from your doctor.

3. Female Urination Device

Okay, don’t get weirded out by this one. India is a place with limited toilets and when you do find a toilet they are often absolutely disgusting. For guys this is not a problem because we can stand at the side of the road to pee but for women that’s not possible. This little device enables women to stand and pee with no mess and no embarrassment. My wife uses it and says it’s great.

4. Probiotics

They boost the good bacteria in your stomach, improve digestion and increase natural immunity. They are a must before traveling to India, especially during your travels and afterwards when you get home. They’re also generally good for all round digestive health, even when you’re not planning a trip to India.

5. India power adapter

After trying countless different brands, I decided to take matters into my own hands. My company, Hero Travel Supply, sources and sells these quality power adapters that are individually tested in the USA. Every order also comes with a corresponding free ebook which teaches you how to avoid frying your electronics in India. I wrote this comprehensive guide based on years of experience in dealing with the unpredictable, often surging power supply in India which can ruin your devices (I know because my $2000 Macbook got fried)!

6. Electrolytes

Electrolytes save lives on a daily basis. When someone has dysentery they get very dehydrated and these will save you. Even if you don’t get sick it is important to stay well hydrated in the hot, dry weather of India and these satchels can easily be added to your bottled water for an extra boost of hydration.

7. First aid kit

It’s inevitable that you’ll get a cut or scrape or some little thing that would need a first aid kit. The item I use most are band aids to help prevent infection in a wound.

8. Lifestraw

I generally only drink bottled water while traveling in India but occasionally it’s not available. In that case I bust out my LifeStraw filter which removes all bacteria, amoebas and other pollutants in the water. It’s only $20 and it doesn’t weigh much so it’s totally worth having for emergencies.

9. Travel Insurance

In India, you need to expect the unexpected. Having a travel insurance plan gives me the peace of mind to go on the adventure while knowing I have support if I get into an emergency or have all my belongings stolen! (This, unfortunately happened to a close friend. He had no insurance and so had to replace his belongings out of pocket). We recommend using TravelInsurance.com because you can compare policies from top companies and find the best option for you and your travel plans.

Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

10. Lonely Planet guide book

I highly recommend getting the latest India guide book before you go because it’s like a bible that gives all the insider tips of the most popular (and not so popular) locations around India.

11. FREE Step-By-Step Guide to India Travel

I have written a 39 page ebook with all my best tips for India Travel which you can download for free. I was compelled to write this ebook to help people learn how to survive, thrive and have a more enjoyable trip to India.

Check out my other packing lists!

– Anjuli Ayer , travel blogger at Traveling Monkeys .

Etiquette at Hindu temples

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for visiting Hindu temples.

40) Bring temple “offerings”. Whenever you go to a Hindu temple, be sure to get some flowers before entering. You can then offer these at the main statue as a sign of respect or in prayer.

41) Always remove your shoes at the entrance. The safest place to leave them is at the shop where you buy flowers because they have a vested interest in making sure no one steals them. Otherwise there is always an off chance someone will fancy your shoes or sandals, especially if they look nice or expensive.

42) Wear ear plugs. The temples in India can be extremely chaotic and noisy with bells, people yelling, babies screaming and guards pushing you through the lines. Wearing ear plugs helps dampen the sound and make it easier for you to enjoy the inner spiritual power that seems to pervade all temples in India.

44) Be inward and don’t get overwhelmed by the chaos. As I’ve mentioned, I recommend to be as inward as possible when visiting temples. Just be simple and quiet within yourself and you’ll have the best possible experience.

45) Get “special darshan” arranged at the temple office. Darshan means “receiving blessings from the divine”. Often the lines are so long at temples that you can be standing in the hot sun for hours before seeing the statue and then you’re quickly pushed out. If you go to the temple office and pay for “VIP” entry then you can skip the line and spend more time in front of the statue. It’s well worth it and won’t cost more than a few $5 to $10.

46) Have small change ready for donations. Many people will want your money at temples and it can be a bit overwhelming. If you feel to give something then have a wad of 10 rupee notes ready so that you don’t hurt your budget too quickly. 🙂

48) Stay at a hotel near the temple if you’re digging the vibes. I find that a hotel right outside the temple can be amazing because you’ll be in that “spiritual aura” 24/7 while you’re there and so the experience will be deeper and more long lasting. It also means you may be able to leave your valuables and shoes etc in your room which can be very convenient.

– Lyric Fergusson , singer-songwriter & author of French Kissing God .

Read my full article for more details: 11 Tips For Enjoying The Indian Temples Back to top  

How To Navigate Indian Airports

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for arriving at the airport and getting to you hotel safely.

50) Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. Things can often change at the last minute such as sudden traffic delays. Therefore, leave early and make sure you get multiple opinions of how long it takes to get to the airport.

52) Security screen your bags before going up to the check-in desk. If you don’t do this, you’ll be sent back and delay getting through security. Be sure to line up at the correct screening machine for your airline.

53) Make sure your bags don’t weigh too much! Domestic Indian flights have weight limits of 15kgs for checked bags and 7kgs for carry-on bags. All bags are strictly weighed and excess baggage fees are around $5 (300rs) per kilogram.

54) Get carry-on bag tags at check-in. Your bags will not be given the “stamp of approval” unless you have the tags attached to each carry-on item when going through security.

56) Don’t trust the airport food. In my opinion, most airports have food that isn’t safe to eat because it’s been sitting for too long. Instead, bring your food or only buy packaged food that you feel is okay.

57) You’ll probably have to ride on a bus to your plane. Find your gate and wait for your flight to be called and then you’ll line up to catch a bus over to your plane.

58) Have your ticket ready for getting off the plane. If your flight continues on after your destination, you’ll need to show your boarding pass to get off the plane.

59) Hire a pre-paid taxi for getting to your hotel from the airport. Inside the airport there are always pre-paid taxi stands available which will give you a fair price from a reputable driver. If you don’t do this you’ll swamped by a group of untrustworthy drivers screaming for your attention and asking too much for their service.

– Shivya Nath , award-winning Indian travel blogger at The Shooting Star .

Read my full article for more details: Navigating Indian airports – it’s harder than you think! Back to top  

Handling money in India

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for handling money in India.

61) You will need to carry cash. Credit cards are only accepted at larger businesses or hotels. Therefore you will always need to carry some cash so that you can pay for taxis, auto rickshaws, cheap hotels and your food etc. I keep all my large bills concealed under my clothing in my neck wallet .

62) Airports give poor currency exchange rates. Use an ATM instead or if that’s not possible only get a few thousand rupees exchanged at the airport because their rates are usually the worst in the whole country.

63) Use a Citibank ATM to withdraw more than 10,000rs at one time. As far as I know, all other ATMs across India will not let you withdraw more than $150 (10,000rs). With all the fees you may have in your home country this can be quite annoying and costly. Citibank allows you to withdraw whatever your daily maximum in your home country is e.g $500.

65) Conceal your money & passport under clothing: I have had pickpockets and beggars put their hand in my pocket looking for money. Since I keep my valuables on my chest, concealed under my clothing in a neck wallet , I’ve never had anything stolen.

66) Use PayPal or Western Union to send money to India. If for some reason you need to send money to an Indian from your home country, I recommend PayPal and if that doesn’t work then try Western Union.

Communication advice for tourists in India

68) Learn to understand the famous “head wobble”. This subtle gesture conveys a lot of meaning depending on the context and degree to which the head is wobbled. It can take some time to learn but when mastered it’s actually a very natural and enjoyable form of human communication.

69) Know that “yes” can mean “I don’t understand”. Sometimes a driver or shopkeeper may want to please you or simply won’t understand what you’re saying and so they will say “yes”. My friend who’s been working in India for 10 years says that he doesn’t take “yes” for an answer!

71) Memorize a few key phrases. I recommend learning a few words of the local language because it shows you have an interest in the culture. It will almost always be very well received and help you quickly make friends with the locals.

72) Have plenty of patience. It can be very frustrating when for example, someone says “yes” to every question you ask. Try to find someone who speaks better English and calmly sort through the miscommunication that may be occurring.

73) Be amused by funny communication rather than angered. You’ll have a much more enjoyable trip if you see the humor in it rather than getting angered and annoyed. These people are doing their best with a second or third language and so give them some compassion.

Read my full article for more details: Communication in India – learn the head wobble! Back to top  

Transportation throughout India

75) Indians drive on the left side of the road. Since the British influenced the first Indian cars they follow suit with driving on the left. Although, crazy driving often may lead to seeing cars, motorbikes and people on the wrong side of the road.

76) Ride a train at least once in your trip. Only travel in 2AC or first class and make sure you book your tickets early enough that they’re not sold out. Trains are the best way to travel long distances if you’re on a budget. Avoid the food they provide unless it’s been packaged.

77) Air travel is the most luxurious by far. If you can afford it, the most comfortable and obviously fastest way to get around is by plane. My favorite website for booking domestic Indian flights and trains is Cleartrip.com.

79) Traveling via an AC taxi is nice for shorter journeys if you can afford it. The car provides comfort with the windows up and the cool AC air but the zig-zagging can get a bit much if the trip is more than a couple of hours. If you value your life I recommend that you demand a working seat belt before you get in the car. Be persistent and they should be able to hook you up.

80) Auto rickshaw journeys are memorable to say the least! Auto rickshaw’s are great for short rides but I recommend ear plugs , sun glasses and a bandana or dust mask to avoid to much bombardment on the senses. Also it’s best to not ride one for more than 20 to 30 minutes or you’ll be exhausted.

81) As mentioned, try to avoid long journeys by road. The roads in India are wildly dangerous and often uncomfortably bumpy. If there is an option to get a plane, train or bus then I would take it instead. Otherwise you might get car sick or just really tired from all the insanity of weaving between head on traffic.

– Rachel Jones , popular India travel blogger at Hippie in Heels .

Read my full article for more details: Travel on Indian Trains, Planes, Buses, Cars & Auto Rickshaws Back to top  

Tips for better hotel experiences while traveling in India

83) It’s possible to stay at $2 “el cheapo” hotels. If you’re on a real tight budget and don’t mind about basic conditions: no pillow, no bed sheets, squat toilet and cold showers, then it’s totally possible to find a $2/night “hotel”. You may have to ask around but in every town outside of big cities you will be able find such accommodation. I recommend you be careful when staying at an Airbnb .

84) It’s also possible to stay at $500, 5 star palaces. If you’re wanting a luxury vacation then India also offers some of the best hotel experiences in the world.

85) Mid range hotels are a balanced blend of comfort and price. The hotels in the $40 to $70 range offer mostly Western standards e.g clean sheets, hot water and a normal toilet. For these kind of hotels and the 5 star palaces, I recommend doing research on TripAdvisor to get real opinions from other travelers.

87) Wear flip flops in the shower. The bathroom floors may not be the cleanest place and so I recommend you use flip flops to keep you feet hygenic. This is especially true in low budget hotels that usually don’t get cleaned properly.

88) Remember, only brush your teeth with bottled water. It’s easy to forget, especially if you stay at a fancy hotel but the water everywhere in India is questionable and brushing your teeth is no exception.

89) Cheaper hotels don’t provide towels. The $2 hotels definitely won’t give you a towel and the mid range hotels will probably give you an old towel that you won’t want to use. For this reason I bring a light weight travel towel just in case.

91) Tip your staff appropriately. Whenever you get room service of any kind at a hotel I recommend you tip between 10 and 20 rupees. If you’re staying at a more fancy hotel you may want to tip between 30 and 50 rupees. This should will help you get better service and more alert staff.

92) Squat toilets are common at budget hotels. These toilets are fine once you get used to squatting but it’s good to be aware of if you’d prefer not to use them. All mid-range and above hotels have normal Western toilets.

93) Watch out for smoking DDT at mid to high end hotels!! Unfortunately many mid to high end ($50 to $90/ night) hotels have a “mosquito management” practice where they have a pot of burning DDT that they carry through the corridors on a daily basis. The fumes of course get into your room and it can be unbearable. If you’re sensitive to this like me, you may want to call ahead before booking a hotel to see what they do for “mosquito management”. This practice probably won’t happen at cheap or 5 star hotels.

– Doug Rexford , India travel expert & Himalayan monk with the Maharishi Purusha Program .

Read my full article for more details: 10 tips to have the best hotel experience in India Back to top  

How to bargain like an Indian

95) Learn how to bargain like an Indian: I would say that Indian’s are the best negotiators or bargainers I have ever encountered. They are incredibly good at going for your emotions, very comfortable with numbers and know how to up sell until the cows come home. If you want good deals, this is an essential skill and in fact may help you with negotiation once you return to your home country.

96) Quickly learn how the bargaining process works. The main thing is start out real low and then immediately offer a little higher so that they know you want to bargain.

Here is a sample sequence:

I was in a clothing shop in a town called Bhopal. When I asked how much a certain sweater was, the owner said, “2000rs” (US $40). I instantly replied, “50rs”. He laughs and says, “no way”. I reply, “100rs”. He says, “1000rs”. I reply, “200rs”. He says, “800rs”. I reply, “300rs”. He says, “700rs”. At this point I say, “too much” and start to leave the shop. He freaks out and says, “500rs sir! this is best price, I have wife and baby at home”. While standing at the door of the shop I say “400rs is my best price” and start to move away. He comes running and says “okay, deal” with a slight grin on his face.

98) Know that “maximum retail price” is not the price tag. Most items that are packaged will have MRP written on it. This is the maximum retail price but it is always possible to bargain that price down but you definitely shouldn’t pay more than that price.

99) Shop around and compare prices. Before making large purchases and if you have the energy you can get better deals by comparing prices. Usually certain shops (such as jewelry) are grouped together making it easier to shop around.

100) Ask help from some local friends. If you befriend a local, they will likely get great joy helping you bargain down to rock bottom prices. Although, you may have to be out of sight so the shop owner doesn’t know what’s going on.

101) Have fun with it. The main thing is to not take things too seriously (especially since your savings may only be few dollars) and enjoy the process. Otherwise it can quickly get very emotionally and physically draining.

– Tim Ferriss , bestselling author of The 4-Hour Workweek .

Read my full article for more details: How to bargain like an Indian Back to top  

Pollution in India is the worst in the world

103) Piles of burning plastic are everywhere. As far as I can tell, there are no real waste management programs offered for household waste. Instead what happens is the plastic items are swept into a pile and then set on fire!

105) Exhaust fumes are asphyxiating. The large cities have an absurdly large number of vehicles all releasing toxic exhaust fumes.

106) Wear a gas mask or at least a bandana. If you have sensitive lungs, I highly recommend you bring a quality gas mask to overcome the asphyxiating pollution problem. A bandana will work somewhat but won’t be able to stop the fine particles such as exhaust fumes and burning plastic pollution.

107) Avoid the big cities like the plague. According to the World Health Organization , New Delhi is now the world’s most polluted city and is 2.5x more polluted than Beijing and a whopping 15x more polluted than Washington D.C. (as shown below). Therefore, I highly recommend you avoid big cities when traveling in India and be aware of this problem which is country wide.

Peggy O’Neill is a motivational & diversity keynote speaker who loves traveling to India and Nepal..

Advice specifically for women traveling in India

These tips were provided by my friend, Rohini Grace.

122) Speak up and just say, “no!” Usually, it’s not in our female nature to be aggressive or assertive, but when you show strength and confidence this tends to show people that you know what you are doing and you have less chance of being taken advantage of.

124) Plan ahead, and know exactly where you’re going. I cannot emphasize this enough. Talk to your friends who have been there, consult tour guides or groups, read Lonely Planet and research your destinations on the Internet beforehand.

125) Avoid going out after dark. I don’t recommend heading out on your own after dark unless you have a buddy or group to explore with. You will notice there are not many local women out after the early evening.

128) Seriously, put a ring on it. When locals find out you aren’t married, be prepared for a lot of (usually disapproving) feedback. I often wear a simple band around my finger just to keep unwanted questions and interest at bay. If you are already married then you’ve got it made. 🙂

– Rohini Grace , owner of a boutique India tour company, Goddess Travels .

Understanding the cultural differences between India & the Western world

Interesting facts about India

130) India has the second largest population in the world. According to the 2011 census it is now over 1.2 billion and growing incredibly fast. It is the 31st most densely populated nation with 991 people per square mile. Some sources say it’s the oldest continuous civilization on the planet.

131) India is the world’s largest democracy. It became independant of the British occupation in 1947 and is considered a “Federal parliamentary constitutional republic”.

132) There are over 17 languages. Sanskrit is the most ancient known language and is the mother of all the European languages. Luckily for us, English is spoken almost everywhere (making it the largest English speaking country in the world). The number of distinctly different languages highlights the fact that India is extremely culturally diverse and in many ways like a collection of countries rather than one country. Where ever you visit, it’s helpful to learn a few phrases of the local language.

133) The predominant religion is Hinduism at over 78%. Below is pie chart based off the 2011 census showing the spread of popular religions in India. Even though Christianity is only 2.5% there are over 30 million Christians in India!

134) India is home to the world’s largest religious pilgrimage site. Approximately 30,000 people visit Venkateshwar (The Vishnu Temple) in Tirupati everyday and there are 12,000 temple staff. What’s more is that annual donations exceed $100 million dollars!

136) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and per capita income. According to the International Money Fund the Indian GDP is $2.3 trillion which is the 7th largest worldwide, whereas per capita income is $1,800 annually which is the 141st in the world.

137) 100’s of millions of Indians live on less than $2/ day. 27% of the Indian population live below the poverty line while at the same time India also has the 4th highest number of billionaires at 90.

138) Cricket is by far the most popular sport. For those who don’t know, it’s similar to baseball and in almost every field you pass in India you’ll see kids (and adults) playing the sport.

Good cultural differences

140) The people are so genuine & friendly. I have met some of the most kind hearted and generous people I’ve ever known during my travels to India. Even though these people didn’t have much money, they welcomed me into their homes and spoiled me with the most delicious food ever.

141) Spirituality and religion thrives. Upon every street corner is some statue or place of worship. The history and power of the land is so strong and sometimes over powering and it is the mecca for mass yoga and meditation.

142) Indian’s try to offer amazing service. India is known for being a “service oriented culture” and everyone works hard to please. India has a lot of people and time on it’s hands making it possible to hire someone to do practically anything. Sometimes the quality of the service may not be ideal but the effort is almost always there.

144) The resourcefulness and ingenuity is mind blowing. While driving the streets you will find the most eye opening resourcefulness. From people carrying a bed frame or sheet of glass on the back of a motorcycle to a truck so over laden with goods that the driver can barely see out the front window. This no doubt stems from the poverty and need to survive.

145) India is a mostly peaceful nation. In fact, India has never invaded another country in at least 1000 years. Although India itself has been invaded countless times by other countries. Crime rate is lower than in the U.S and if you avoid big cities you will feel very safe.

146) Some of the best food in the world. It of course depends on your taste but the unbelievable diversity of flavors and textures, colors and presentation of the food can be a divine experience. Many dishes take hours upon hours to prepare and if you have a sweet tooth you won’t be disappointed.

Possibly uncomfortable cultural differences

147) Chaos is everywhere. Almost all road rules including red lights will be ignored. The streets are bustling with people, livestock and every kind of vehicle you can think of all tooting their horns. This can be quite a contrast from the quiet streets of the West. Furthermore, you may find it hard to locate your seat belt making it rather unsafe.

149) The caste system still exists. It’s composed of “priests” (Brahmins), “warriors” (Kshatriyas), “merchants” (Vaishyas) & “workers” (Shudras). Unfortunately this division seems to cause discrimination between the castes and can get confusing without knowing the ins and outs.

150) Most animals get abused, except for cows. Be it a dog, cat, chicken (meant for consumption), an ox (drawing a cart), animal abuse in India can be shocking and seems to be everywhere. It is a conundrum as to why this happens especially since India is the birthplace of the concept of Ahimsa or “non-violence”. The one animal that is largely exempt from this abuse is the cow because it holds particular importance in the Hindu religion. Although, you often see cows eating trash which is different kind of abuse.

151) Almost everyone will try to get your money. Since hundreds of millions of Indians are living on less than $2/day the struggle for survival is a real issue. The main thing is to have your wits about yourself and be compassionate but I advice you do not ever give money to beggars.

153) Lying or bending the truth. It may be due to communication difficulties, but it seems that often Indians don’t have a problem with lying. Whether it’s a taxi driver or a shop owner – there’s a good chance they will bend the truth or lie if it helps them make a sale. I suggest you try to get informed beforehand and ask the right questions, ones that can’t be simply answered by “yes”.

154) Expect to see spitting. A lot of men use chewing tobacco (known as “paan”) which means there can be a lot of spitting on the street. Many women also don’t have a problem spitting when they need to.

155) Littering and trash are ubiquitous across India. It is yet to be understood that littering is a bad thing and so the streets act as open trash cans. The trash then piles up and the solution is normally to set it (mostly plastic) on fire. This is why I always bring a dust mask to help me breathe!

Cultural Do’s & Don’ts

Below I’ve listed some of the most important points to remember to avoid cultural awkwardness.   156) DO be patient & have a sense of humor. 158) DO have an open heart & mind. 160) DO make friends with the locals. 162) DO wear Indian clothes at special occasions. 164) DO remove your shoes at peoples homes. 166) DO wash your hands & use hand sanitizer. 168) DO only use your right hand while eating. 170) DO learn to understand the “head wobble”. 172) DO try to pay if at restaurants with Indians. 174) DO know that 1 min means 5 to 10 mins. 176) DO be prepared to have your photo taken. 178) DO bring a small gift if you stay at a home. 180) DO touch the feet of someone you respect.

– J.D Viharini , author of guidebook: Enjoying India .

Back to top  

Why should you go to India?

183) Have the experience of a lifetime. India will blow your mind. You’ll see some of the most crazy sights of your life. It’ll be a sensory overload (mostly in a good way). If you’re open you’ll meet some of the nicest people on Earth and your heart will expand. Every time I go to India which is now 7 times, my life improves for the better and my mind gets broadened from the experience.

184) The history is mind blowing. India is quite possibly the oldest civilization in the world. Many of the famous monuments are ancient yet so beautiful. You can just feel the history in the land.

185) Indulge in the best food you’ve ever had. I have had by far some of the best food ever while traveling in India. The exquisite flavors and care with preparation are to die for. 🙂

187) Discover wonderful cultural diversity. There is an incredible mosaic of cultural differences that exist in peaceful unity in India. It’s a delightful experience to travel from far north India through central Maharashtra state down to the southern tip at Kanyakumari. The diversity of food, dress, customs, language and landscapes are limitless.

188) There are endless things to see. India is jam packed with sights and experiences that exist nowhere else. From the Himalayas around Uttar Kashi to the beaches of Kerala and from the Taj Mahal to the tiger reserve at Bandhavgarh you won’t be let down.

• 190) Diwali – Festival of lights . The biggest and most important holiday in the Hindu calendar. Watch out for loud fireworks, extra pollution and wild parties.
• 191) Holi – Festival of colors or festival of love . This one is where everyone throws colored powder on each other. Wear clothes you don’t mind ruining and enjoy the fun!
• 192) Durga Puja – Festival of Durga . The celebration of the victory of “good” over “evil”. It can be a great spiritual experience.
• 193) Onam – The harvest festival . Celebrated in the state of Kerala. Wear new clothes and admire the beautiful flower arrangements outside peoples homes.
• 194) Raksha Bandhan – Festival of love & protection between brothers and sisters . Tie a string around your sister or brothers wrist to show your love.
• 195) Maha Shivaratri – The great night of Lord Shiva . Celebrating the convergence or marriage of Shiva (silence) and Shakti (dynamism) which are two fundamental energies in the universe. It can be an incredibly powerful spiritual experience.
• 196) Christmas, Kerala style – Celebrating the birth of Jesus . In Kerala there are a lot of Christians and they have their own style of Christmas which can be quite fun to witness!

197) Relax and rejuvenate. India is an incredible place to be pampered, relax and just chill-out. The ancient Indian healthcare system known as Ayurveda offers amazing treatments including massage and other rejuvenation techniques. Find a health spa you like and you’ll unwind like never before.

198) Bargain until the cows come home. India naturally has amazing shopping opportunities not just because of the great prices but also because of the unique items that are available. There is good reason why the Dutch East India Trading Company made so many trips to India and this holds true to this day.

199) You’ll help their economy. Last but not least, going to India will help boost their economy of which tourism is a major part. Since there are so many people in India living below the poverty line it feels good to be able to help even if in a small way.

So, What’s The Bottom Line?

India truly is a remarkable place, but in order to enjoy it fully, you must be prepared.

I believe my tips will give you all you need. And, my free ebook is a handy way to bring all these tips with you on your trip.

Here’s one last dose of inspiration, from the wise words of Mark Twain. Even though it was written in 1899, he captures the essence of India perfectly!

Enjoy your India travel!

Get my FREE Step-By-Step Guide to India Travel

• Learn all my tips for safe India travel
• 39 page full color ebook
• Printable PDF
• Save yourself from getting sick in India

Asher Fergusson

317 comments.

Nice blog thanks for sharing. This blog is much helpful to the travelers and pilgrims from other countries.

Your site is good too – thanks!

Your website is so informative! I want to go to India someday and I could spend hours just reading everything you have to say about India. Do you have any advice for safely carrying around a camera like a small sony or canon? Is it a bad idea to take pictures in poor areas? Will I become a target for theft if people see my camera? Is it bad to take pictures of people without their permission? Also, I saw in your packing “don’t” list that it’s not a good idea to wear skirts. Why is that a don’t?

It’s a great post I’ve read in a while. I loved it so much and bookmarked it. Thank you for sharing such a nice post:) Fergusson!!

I AM GOING IN APRIl, started my research already!!! So glad I found this blog

Nice long list! But I disagree with #145. I live in Nepal, they were not so nice to us after the big quakes in 2015. Embargo. Heating/cooking/driving gas shortages.

Thank you Asher ! I am travelling to India soon and this blog is incredible – convenient to read and very very helpful !

Jai Guru Dev

Have a great trip!

Sir I think what you have mentioned is 1980 s India. I strongly disagree with your point regarding hotel. I am travelling in indin since last ten years & according to me all the tourist placing & major cities having good hotels with cleaniness & hygein.but how can you aspects hygein & cleaniness from the hotel if you want to pay just $2 per day.Even you can not buy budget lunch in $2 doller! If want good service you have go hotel which have 3 star more rating. In $2 you get only rooms not hotels like dharmshala(which is used for night stay by needy poor people ) According to my data about 75 hotels in any Indian cities are above 3 star. The rate are front $30 to 70 $ depends on city.

Hi Kristopher,

Thanks for taking the time to express your opinion.

In my experience as a Westerner in India, most hotels that cost less than US $50/ night are often not very clean. And especially $30/ night or less. My points about hygiene are definitely valid in 2015 and are not from the 1980s.

Hotels that range from $2 to $20/ night are a good choice for someone who is on a super low budget when traveling. I have stayed at many of these hotels and with my tips you can have a fine stay.

All the best,

I would have to agree with the above – a lot of the comments and tips are too severe or outdated – street food is okay to eat, just make it vegetarian – Indian people don’t always want to scam you – NO THEY DON’T. Water in Mumbai is 100 times better than it was, I drank terracotta filtered watered for two weeks while I was there and not one tummy issue. So many things here are true but many are way to severe to ring true today 🙂

• Pingback: How To Pack a Suitcase Like a Ninja – Tips From a Seasoned Traveler | Asher Fergusson

Thank you for putting together this great resource!!!

My pleasure! 🙂

Dear brother Asher I was moved to tears on seeing pictures and reading on Maharishi’s passing on. Thank you so much for the wealth of info you are sharing with the world and your experiences with Maharishi. May God Bless us all. JGD

I’m glad you liked it. JGD – Asher.

good blog you have.

Wonderful and interesting resource on India. Thank you so much for all your effort on this blog. I really appreciate it. While searching on India travel I found your site.

yes !! its all true , welcome i am here to help u.

hi. .I am belong to Himalaya part of India.. (uttarkashi ) which above mantion here…if you will come to visit this part and you will need a guide so please let me know. ..would be my pleasure to assist you..

and blog written amazingly. ..thanks Asher u r great.. n.. ur welcome to my place Gangotri (source of Ganges )

Thanks Rajneesh! 😉

This is great! Thanks for putting it together.

I’m glad it is useful 🙂

Yeah. I loved your blog. It gives a lot of information useful. I will follow your blog for a meaningful reading!!!

Thanks Dileep,

I’ve had a lot of fun writing it and it’s nice being able to help people who want to travel to India.

Travel india via indian railways check your train booking status with – www.pnr-status.info

Yes, the trains are great. I find http://cleartrip.com is the best site for booking them.

Spot your train also supports the information of arrival and departure of trains as well as the time by which they are late or early so that you can easily travel knowing the whole route of your train.

I went to India this year for 2 weeks. Prior to going, I read the articles in your blog, and I found them very helpful – especially the one with remember to take dental floss! I had a great trip and as I read your future articles, it brings back memories of my trip!

I’m so glad my tips helped you Anne-Marie! Yeah, I also can’t live without my dental floss 🙂

Yes it is rightly said that all the tap water in India is contaminated with pollutants and amoebas. Buy only drinking good bottled mineral water, but A recent test proves that bottled water too in the country is unsafe. 18 brands of bottled water were tested out of which 27% of them had high bromate content. Such toxic water can cause cancer and other health problems.Ensure you don’t fall prey to such toxic water. Know more on this topic at http://www.waterconsumer.org/water-news.php

I’m glad I came across your article before I leave on my trip. I love the 6th point. I’ve been in a lot of countries where people don’t willingly admit that they don’t understand you. Communication is key when you’re trying to understand something about a certain place or town. Thanks for the article!

Enjoy your travels! 🙂

The cover picture can be a little more ugly , a garbage pile from Mumbay Slum

balajiviswanathan.com ->

1.3 billion people don’t drink bottled water everyday , and most are healthy and intelligent and not permanently under diarrhea medication. India is not Delhi or seeing or understanding india completes with Lonley Planets “Golden Triangle ” tour. Before taking opinions from a non Indian blogger , ask where he stayed or visited All ( not just majority) sleeps at 2 dollar shacks and eat cheap street food and roam 2 -3 weeks at north and tell the world india is that this bla,bla,blah. I haven never seen a blog of a non Indian tourist who stayed at at least a 3 star Indian hotel on the full tour span., or travelled in 1st AC in Indian railways or know about or dined at midrange Indian restaurants .if anybody founds please put a link .

Also ask them where they gone , have they went to Shimla , Kullu,Manali , Munnar , Mysore , kochi,Bangalore,Ooty, Sringeri ,Trivandrum , kangra valley , dharamsala,palampur, khajjiar,chamba,dehradun,Missourians , nainital ?? The answer will be a big NO

These are small selection of amazing places in india

India is diverse with amazing places and beautiful people, have wonderful airports and good transport network. Don’t believe these shoestring budget bloggers …they don’t know anything about india ….

You get stomach upset in any place , not only the bacteria also different food types may also induce. Me and my family recovering from a massive diarrhea attack after eating a home made pizza from a Italian mama.

Here is my tip for india visit

1- follow Indian bloggers , they will show amazing pictures and places of india 2- get info directly from india tourism website 3- no country is safe for lonely female travelers , refer rape statistics we are at bottom 4-come after September , if before go to hill stations , as generally india is hot and humid , no 6 months dark winter , but bright always

Welcome to india

Hi Hemanth-ji,

Thanks for your input and tips.

I love India and have been there 7 times, lived in India for over 1.5 years and traveled all over the country. Here are a few of the places I’ve been: Kochi, Allahabad, Jabalpur, Brahmasthan of India, Trivandrum, Chennai, Delhi, Uttar Kashi, Kanyakumari, Madurai, Lucknow, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Bhopal, Ujjain, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Bhubaneshwar, Rameshwaram, Ahmednagar, Ellora, Mumbai, Tirupati, Sri Kalahasti and many, many more amazing places. I have also been in a lot of remote villages and other off the beaten trail locations (such as the high Himalayas) away from cities. I have stayed in every possible accommodation from 5 star palaces to mud brick huts.

I have been weddings, vedic yagyas, stayed in many family homes, attended Mahashivratri, Holi, Christmas in Kerala, and many other festivals. I know Sanskrit (including many stotrams by heart and Vishnusahasranam etc) and can speak some Hindi. I even majored in Maharishi Vedic Science at university for 4 years so I also know about Jyotish, Sthapatya Ved, Ayurveda, Yoga, Transcendental Meditation, Gandharva Veda, Ramayan, Mahabharat (Bhagavad Gita), Rik Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Ved and all the other vedas.

My tips here are written for the Western tourist based on all my experience and many other Western friends who have lived in India for over 10 years. As I explained many of my friends who went there without preparation got terribly sick and into all kinds of other trouble including a run in with the mafia etc.

It may be hard to understand how these tips make sense if you’ve grown up in India but for us Westerners it’s important to take a lot of precautions to have a safe and enjoyable pilgrimage to India.

Hope this helps.

You are right! Your observations and experiences is really valuable for people like us who were not born or lived there. It would of course different if someone who is a native of India will be the one to write a review. I thank you for this great effort- very informative.

Wow! Maybe we should FaceTime and chant Vishnu Sahasranamam together some time!

Haha – sounds good! 🙂

That is true. India being an amazing place, it will be terrible for foreigners. Local mafia, police, and government officials are little or no help to other visitors. It has broken my heart many times when I see tourists are getting ripped off. Still, it is an amazing place to see, experience and to fall in love with.

Hope, one day citizens of India will realize the importance of the soil and keep it clean.

As they always say, but one should experience from heart “Atithi devo bhava”.

Hey Hemanth, Can you point me in the direction of an Indian blogger, that writes about Bangalore? I’m going there to study next week 🙂 Best regards Caroline

Thank you AsherJi . I am a 46 year old south Indian lived in India for 28 years continuously, now visiting India every year once. I thank you for your interest on India and visiting my beautiful country, and your effort to encourage others to visit my country.

For others “Ji ” or “G” is a salutation, adding to end of your name is a way of showing respect, only in NORTH INDIA ! south Indians don’t use the term ,in fact we don’t like Hindi language ! , some of south Indian states waged war to central government against imposing Hindi as a must study language for students, thats INDIA !

We don’t speak a single language or there is one unified food type as can be called as Indian food. India does not speak Hindi as a typical westerner thinks, you can go around India with English rather Hindi.

All the food ,language, the customs you hear outside generally as “Indian” is of NORTH INDIA, so All “Indian Restaurants” outside India is in fact “NORTH INDIAN RESTAURANTS, nothing to do with my kind of south Indian food or of the people from north eastern, west or eastern part of India .

So a visitors perspective on India will always be area specific, it is like visiting Istanbul and making comments on whole of Europe.

Indians are some of the warmest, most genuine, humorous peoples ,India, that you see today is after thousands of years of slavery, looting ,rising and restructuring ,Like any other country, it has its plus and minuses ,we are coming up , kindly bear with us .

So after fixing Indian destination, research area specific information, like for my place KERALA we don’t have water scarcity, not much pollution there is plenty of water and water bodies in my home state. After re reading your advice to India I would like to add the following which I think would be of use for prospective Indian tourists.

1- What to bring, Not necessary to bring toilet paper and paper mask to India, all the listed items can be easily purchased in India, go to nearest “Medical Shop “which is pharmacy and buy all medications and first aids, nobody will cheat you, all the packaged products in India comes with a printed price “M.R.P” (maximum retail price) large supermarkets sells below the printed rates. Keep several passport size photos and passport copies with you, which will be useful during your India travel. Don’t wear a mask when you roam around, people look at you as non blending hypocrite, also don’t roam with your lonely planet guide book which make you an easy target for scamsters All Indian states have their own tourisum development corporation website with plenty of authentic reliable informations

i recommend to bring an iPad loaded with offline India maps , there are several maps available free online ,you can also keep google map offline , in that mark the toilets , and important place you wish to visit , these maps are when will show your current position and without any data roaming charge you can find placed easily Install India specific applications like IXIGO , Indian railway app etc

2-Mobiles phones in india India has the cheapest mobile call and data rates in the world, use it wisely , you can buy a sim card almost anywhere in India , the shop keeper require a photograph and a passport copy . The major private provider is “IDEA MOBILE “and the government one is “BSNL” My understanding is that if you do not use a prepaid Sim for more than 3 months everywhere in the world it will be de activated. Do not give your Sim card to anybody when you leave, you will be in trouble when you are back some time after, The person you trust may lose the sim card and may fall in to the hands of some anti social elements.

3-Money Exchange Don’t exchange money exchanger who comes to your hotel room, the rate may be very good but who knows a couple of 100 rupee notes are fake??? You will be in jail for the rest of your life, always exchange from BANKS only and keep receipt , yes State Bank Of India , it is everywhere even in Himalayas.

4-Travel We have super clean and efficient Metro train in major cities, make use of it search “Delhi Metro “ “Bangalore Metro” etc . And there is Hop on Hop off bus in Delhi, Auto (3 wheelers) are best and cheapest for short travel, and always travel in 2nd AC in trains . Purchase tickets online, there will be chaos at ticket counter in train stations (we are 1.3 billion people =160 times the population Of Switzerland or 4 Times US population)

5-Eating in India, Normally if you visited anywhere and fall sick or robbed, you immediately make a website and narrate it or put in lonely planet or tripadvisior, if it is otherwise that your journey is fine and wonderful you will share it with your immediate friends only, So don’t be scared with the online negative reports of any country it is just 5% of the fact. I went to Pisa (Italy ) very very scared, after reading the negative comments online and in travel blogs , stories like Africans waiting to snatch your purse and pick pocketers and shady characters waiting at train station etc , but my trip went wonderful and smooth ( yes I put it in Tripadvsor ) So most non native tourist comments on a country or a place will be 99% negative , just take it that way That’s why I am advising to read native Indian travel bloggers , there are plenty, search “top 10 Indian travel bloggers”. It is quite safe to eat generally in India very less die of food poison in India, not all foods are made with e-coli laden water, eateries make sure to provide good hygienic food or else they know they will be featured in Trip advisor with 100 negative comments, you must try Indian street food it is fantastic.

6- Water All restaurants will give you “hot water” free, or use bottled ones Perfectly ok to brush with tap water in KERALA

7-Hotels Please stay in 3 star hotels at least or in one who charge you at least 50 Euros per head per day, which will solve 90 percent of India travel related problems, like toilet paper, European toilet, towels, travel service, taxi , clean water , safe locker etc , no need to bring Pad lock or door stopper mosquito net etc All province \state governments run affordable and neat Motels or Hotels – for Kerala search for “KTDC hotels “ You are ready to pay for a smelly bunk bed in 12 bed hall in a Norway Hostel 50 Euros without any sheet or towel is isn’t it? Why you are not ready to pay here for a big spacious room 50 Euros? For long term affordable stay take spiritual route , India have plenty of “ Ashrama “ run by Hindu gurus , you will get cheap accommodation and food if you research and plan ahead of time .(try Art Of Living Foundation or amritapuri.org , all in south India )

8-Shopping Please don’t bargain that much, let them also make some money For nice cotton handmade dress and clothes look for “KHADI” centers The shops are called “Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan” search in google to see nearest locations You will get stitched Indian dress, no bargain all fixed price, salesmen are monthly salaried paid by government ,so may not be keen to sell you things .

9-Temples You will not be allowed very inside of most of Indian temples, You can enter temples managed by Archeological Society Of India or in Temples managed by some Prominent Gurus, you are allowed to up to a certain periphery only ,the inner sanctum is only for Hindus , the temple architecture is mesmerizing , in south it is with granite and in north it is mostly with Marble and sandstone

10-Communication Learn Indian head wobbling, there are plenty of you tube videos Everybody understands Basic English all over India, There will be fewer pleasantries like ‘please’ “sorry” “Thank you” etc; everything is in tone and gesture You can’t hear a rude “sorry”or loud “please” as in west, people are polite and mild Ask direction to students and teens they speak excellent English 9-Photography I don’t know, but please don’t take garbage and dirty toilets photos and put online (there is plenty already) Take beautiful pictures, Indian is colorful and vibrant. We have a public garbage and garbage processing issue, we are working on it

I hope I touched all the sections Asher G An undergraduate course in Ayurveda Medicine is a 5 year full time course; my uncle a ayurveda practitioner says in college you learn only 10% And to learn Vedas you must know Sanskrit, as 75% will be lost in translation, as we have 5 different “You”s to use in different kind of situation and age groups . Come back to India and learn more . Thank you

Thanks Hemanth ji 🙂

You have many good tips and great that you also have some Western perspective to share. Here are my replies to your points:

1) There are plenty of South Indian restaurants outside of India. I’ve incredible dosa, idly & uttapam etc in Australia and the UK.

2) Kerala has less pollution than other parts but in Trivandrum or other cities like Kochi it still can be strong for someone with sensitive lungs or who isn’t used to it.

3) Yes, you can buy toilet paper in India but depending on where you stay you may need it before you get a chance to find it at a shop. Some medications may not be available or will not be as high quality e.g the electrolytes I’ve bought in India taste horrible.

4) iPad is okay to bring but be very careful with the electricity while charging it. The Indian power supply can fluctuate from 50 volts to 300 volts and then go off all within a few minutes. I’ve had many electronics get fried.

5) Simcards are harder to get than you might think for a Westerner. In my last trip in February 2015 I wasn’t able to get one because they said it would take 10 days but I wasn’t in any one location for more than 4 days.

6) State Bank of India is good but will only let you take 10,000rs at a time. Citibank will let you take the limit of you local country.

7) Your points about the metro and buses within a city are good – thank you.

8) I agree most places you’ll be fine eating in India as long as you only eat cooked food and nothing raw. Although street food is just not worth the higher risks in my opinion.

9) Certain places I’m sure are fine for brushing teeth with tap water but how do we know? We’re not going to do a scientific analysis at each hotel we visit so it’s safer and simpler to just use bottled water and then not worry about it.

10) Agreed, 3 star hotels and up a good choice for many people but some travelers, especially young travelers like to stay at cheap places so that they can travel for a longer time without spending all their money. The tips I’ve given above for the cheap hotels are very important to make the stay more comfortable.

11) Agreed, it’s nice for locals to make some money but it’s also important that the prices don’t get too crazy. Also with large transactions such as a long taxi ride – it may be necessary to bargain so that you don’t get ripped off by a few thousand rupees.

The khadi stores are amazing. I’ve had some wonderful custom kurta’s made there that have lasted 6 years without a problem.

12) Most temples have allowed me into the inner sanctum. It’s only in some places in South India that you may not be allowed to even see the inner shrine such as at the Meenakshi temple in Madurai.

13) Definitely learn the “head wobble” – it’s a great communication help in India.

14) I know Sanskrit only for it’s sound value. It’s the primordial “language of nature” which has a lot of health benefits purely from recitation.

Thanks again for spending the time to give you input, Hemanth!

hi..ma’am. …whatever you wrote in your blog somehow that is reality of India.. but what to do.. corruption poverty and population is the big challenge of the country… let’s see what happened further, now we have good prime minister at this time but it’ll take some time. … but for visitors it’s interesting part of India. ..thats the real fun of India. .

Dear friends. Nice and inspirational knowledge for foreign tourists…i think to much…And of course it’s good. .. Keep righting…thanks to mr Asher Fergusson and many thanks to HEMANT…BLESSINGS..Tripathi

I lived outside India for nearly 25 years and living in India for the last 12 years and…… travelling here. I couldn’t agree more on your comprehensive- list, if I may – well thought out !

I guess Asher’s is more like this, I lived in New York city for 20 years and loved it, yet telling people travelling from here not to get shot or mugged in Central park or on the streets. So long the tips aren’t too ‘discouraging’, guess it’s ok.

Hello Hemanth- JI,

After attempting to comprehend your barely understandable grammar, I have several things to say when I see you trying to attack a Western Blogger who has been nothing but cordial and patient in his replies to the absurd disrespect you have posted on the website he has created in order to show the world what a fantastic place your home, India, is. In fact, I am married to an Indian, specifically an Indian from Kerala. Trivandrum to be exact. Before blasting your opinions and being as close minded as you have made yourself to be, remember there are three sides to every story. Yours, mine and the TRUTH. Mr. Fergusson has created his side, from a non-Indian point of view. Therefore, non-biased. Reading a blog from an “Indian Blogger” will show others India from a bias point of view, since they will most likely not be familiar with Western customs and what we may consider a “Culture Shock” however are “normal” for Indians. Therefore next time you want to insult using your narrow minded, insecure, and defensive comments, think twice. The internet allows the world to read comments such as yours and don’t be surprised if your opinion becomes the reason people start to dislike India rather than the contaminated water or pollution.

Sincerely, MDP

Great informations

hi, Asher-Ji , I am so impressed with your detailed and to the point realistic assessment about India . Please keep writing …your outlook is what i like .Because many of us do possess 🙂

thanks for loving Sanskrit and India

Thanks Abhishek ji!

I will keep writing about India and I can’t wait to come back in December!

First off, I want to say that overall this advice is awesome, but after having just spent 4 months in India and left yesterday, I’d like to add some perspective. I realize I do not have the same amount of experience as the author, but it’s always nice to have different perspectives.

1. While I agree that many people with a motive to make money from you will try to make as much as possible or rip you off (taxis, rickshaw drivers, some shop owners, guides/fake guides, etc), you shouldn’t be afraid or be closed off to everyone. Here’s why: most scams in india amount to nothing more than 1) being ask to pay too much for something or 2) being ask to pay for something that was given to you for free (advice/directions). For scam #1, the author provides great tips but in general, know what the price should be by asking an independent source and don’t be afraid to shop around as there are usually hordes of providers for any basic product or service. To avoid the 2nd type of scam, when someone approaches you and offers you something, make it clear to them that you won’t be paying them. Then when/if they ask you for money, it won’t be hard to blow them off. (Unless they genuinely deserve it for helping you out. Though most genuine, helpful people won’t ask for money unless they are desperate.)

In this way, you can still remain friendly and open towards people (which will give you the opportunity to meet great people and have special experiences), while avoiding scams.

I’m really stressing this because when you read advice like that given in the article, the tendency is to be closed off and suspicious of every person you meet. It’s easy to be angry and unhappy when you assume everyone is trying to rip you off and it will happen often enough that it will be easy to support those negative beliefs. But, if you have this attitude, you won’t have much fun and you won’t be able to trust people enough to have amazing experiences that only come when you let your guard down a little and give people a chance. There are some amazing shop owners, rickshaw drivers, and other Indians out there who will take care of you, treat you with respect, and sometimes go above and beyond what you expect from them. It’s these people and experiences that will make India special for you.

2. I have to disagree with the author’s advice on accommodation. Yes, if you want to only spend $2/night, you will be roughing it a bit. And yes, there are a wide range of options, all the way up to 5 star luxury. But, you don’t need to spend $40-$70/night to find a really nice, comfortable place to stay that has everything you might want (hot shower, western toilet, comfortable/clean bed, air con, balcony, view, safe location, etc). For about $8-15/night, you can find beautiful accommodation in many places. In most places, $5-8 will be enough money to get a comfortable, clean, safe place. We stayed in an amazing place in Dharamsala for $11 that rivaled the comfort level of our Canadian friends who were paying $75/night.

3. On temples. The author had a completely different experience with temples than I did. If you are coming to India for a spiritual experience, it is very possible to have one. I deepened both my yoga and meditation practice during my time in India. I had great experiences in ashrams, classes, and at meditation retreats, and when talking with individual people. In general, there are many opportunities to develop your spirituality.

That said, I found very little to be spiritual about the temples in India. In fact, I found them, especially the popular ones, to be anti-spiritual. When you arrive in a crowded temple you will most likely see crowds of people pushing at each other, yelling at each other, and engaging in all sorts of selfish/rude behavior just so they can perform a ritual. There may be some spiritual value to them in going through these rituals, but it doesn’t show by their actions. Not only that, but you can expect as a foreigner, that people will try to scam you out of money (even those holy men working at the temple). Also, if you go to a Kali temple, you can expect to watch hordes of people gather around as the holy men cut the heads off of baby goats. For me, this type of environment is not conducive to anything spiritual, which I view as an inward journey.

I’ll admit thought that while I did meditate a lot during my time in India, I never attempted to meditate at a hindu temple. I will try in the future based on the author’s recommendations, but I view meditation as an inward journey and most hindu temples are not good environments to withdraw and go inward.

Despite my generally negative opinion about the spiritual sanctity of the temples in India, I still think it’s worthwhile to visit them and I continued to do so throughout my time. They make for great opportunities to see important aspects of Hindu/Indian culture.

As with anything spiritual, I don’t discredit the author’s personal experiences. The fact that he had them means it may be possible for you You should go into your temple experiences with an open mind to find out for yourself. All I’m trying to say is lower your expectations about temples and if you want spiritual growth and don’t find it at the temples, seek it out elsewhere.

Thanks for your tips and the time you took to put this together. Many would have been helpful to me before my trip 🙂 No disrespect

Thanks for taking the time to share your perspective. I agree it’s really good getting multiple points of view since everyone experiences the world differently.

Here are my responses:

1) Your “ripoff/ scam” points are great. I agree with you 100%. I have had wonderful experiences with some auto rickshaw drivers, such as Anil in Ellora (he looked after my wife one afternoon and took her to all these amazing temples and was so sweet and let us choose our price for his services) and from other shop owners like Lal in Kovalam (he made me amazing custom underwear for fair prices).

I guess my article is attempting to educate people on what is possible to experience and to know what the different types of scams are so that you can avoid falling into the trap. At the same time I agree it is important to be open and like you say not “closed off” because there are so many Indians who are fair and don’t want to rip you off. I will add this point into that section.

Many of my friends who went to India unprepared were shocked by how much they got scammed and tricked and this turned them off from ever returning to India which I think is sad. So it’s good to be aware so you can avoid trouble but open at the same time to give people a chance.

2) I would love to know about these places you speak of. In my experience, it will be hard to find such accommodation in most cities and tourist towns but I’m sure it is possible if you look hard enough. What was the name of the place you stayed in Dharamsala? Can you give other examples?

3) With regard to the temples I agree they are crazy places that on the surface appear to be “anti-spiritual”. If you can go beyond that external chaos and settle down to the internal silence and peace then that’s when the magic happens. It really helps to have ear plugs and then you have to find a quiet corner where no one will bug you. Sit there with eyes closed for at least 20 to 30 minutes and meditate (I personally do Transcendental Meditation – TM). I sometimes end up being in temples for 2 to 3 hours at a time – it’s like going to another universe and so transformative.

My wife and I were just in India for the month of February this year and it was her first trip. She had more amazing spiritual experiences in the temples than me and can’t wait to go back. She also does TM.

Of course this may not happen for everyone and visiting the less crowded temples may help and like you say going to a meditation or yoga retreat can be an amazing way to tap into the spiritual power of India.

I’m glad you found the guide helpful and thanks again for adding your India tips.

Thanks for the reply.

As far as hotels are concerned, my girlfriend and I never paid more than $15 in our entire 4 months in India. In a few cases, we ended up with semi uncomfortable places, but most of the time, it was fine. Here are examples of what we received and for how much:

-Dharamsala: We actually stayed in Dharamkot, just up the hill from McCleod-Ganj, in a place called Raj Residency for 700 rupees. This was the best place we had in all of India and we stayed there after our 10 days in Vipassana. It was a huge, clean, well decorated room with a big comfy bed and a well-appointed private bath. The room had a balcony that looked over the valley (perfect view), and since the property was in the hills, we woke up to birds every morning instead of rickshaws 🙂

-Arambol, Goa: We stayed at the Zen Garden for 400 rupees (~$6.50) which was a 20 minute walk down the beach from the main town. We had our own private beach bungalow with private bath and porch. The bungalow was in a grove of palm trees and with the fan, was at the perfect temperature in the evenings for sleeping. We had a western style toilet, shower, mosquito net over the bed, fantastic restaurant with beach view (meals prices: 80-250 rupees), and were 1 minute walk to the beach.

-Hampi: We stayed at Goan Corner for 300 rupees (~$5). We had a basic private room with shared bath. Everything was clean and the place had a great vibe because it’s a popular spot for backpackers. We had hammocks, nice restaurant on site, motorcycle rental on site, and it was run by a really friendly family.

-Jaipur: We stayed at Chirtakatha for 800 rupees. http://www.chitrakatha.co.in/ This was an actual western style hotel. Super clean and safe. Nice staff. Rooftop restaurant. Price listed on the website is 1000 rupees but we were able to bargain when we arrived.

-Jodhpur: Cosy Guest House (550 rupees). We originally booked the room for 350, but upgraded to a nicer room and got a special price with some bargaining.

cosyguesthouse.com/

I could continue, but this should give you a general idea of the types of places we stayed at.

In general, you don’t need to pay more than 300-1000 rupees ($5-16) to find something safe and comfortable. In this price range, you don’t often get A/C, but we traveled in the beginning of the Indian summer (Feb-May) and not having A/C was a problem just a handful of times. Usually the rooms are cool enough in the evenings for sleeping, especially with a good fan.

As far as temples, I get what you are saying. Your experience is interesting to me and I’m looking forward to exploring it next time. But, for most people (especially those inexperienced with meditation), I can’t see the temples being optimal for a spiritual experience.

Thanks Scott!

Awesome tips on hotels – I’d like to try some of these! 🙂

The Dharamsala place sounds amazing. I’m guessing the pollution isn’t bad up there, right? That’s often a problem for me… I can’t breathe in places like Delhi or Chennai and I end up coughing all night! 🙁

Thanks again for your perspective on the temples. I forget that I’ve been meditating since I was 10 years (I’m now 29) and so I guess I’m quite experienced. I agree for a newbie, the busy temples may not be the best place to gain a spiritual experience but you never know. Still worth a visit regardless…

Namaste Asher. If you find yourself in Kolkata, do know that there are chai wallas on every corner! Plus, if you wish to visit a temple, avoid Kalighat. There are a lot of people who claim to be priests who will do pujas for you, but instead they make you have darshan from really far and try and squeeze 200 to 2000 rupees from you. Just firmly refuse and don’t give in to their taunts. One of them even threatened to sacrifice me to the goddess if I didn’t give him Rs. 1501 for chanting a simple two-line shloka.

Thanks for the tip, Maulin! 🙂

Yeah, the fake priests are a sad sight – which can give temple a bad name. It’s quite unfortunate! 🙁

I have some more comments –

1- Restaurants I disagree with you ,outside India if the restaurant name is “XXXXX Indian Restaurant ” it is a north Indian restaurant , a restaurant selling south Indian dishes will be named clearly “South Indian Restaurant” not just “Indian” compare to “Indian” restaurants there are very few, say 1 in 500 south Indian restaurants out side India ……one such south Indian chain you may see outside India is “SHARAVANABHAVAN” which always serve only south Indian “Pure Vegetarian” dishes .

Summary-Outside India : “Indian restaurant” = Serves North Indian Chicken,Mutton,Veg Dishes sometimes few south Indian dishes . “South Indian Restaurant ” Serve South Indian Veg Dishes ONLY

2-Sim Cards It should not take 10 days ! , check the shops who are authorized to sell simcards ,the guy at the shop may be giving wrong info , all mobile shops you see on street sells just “recharge coupons ” get & pass authentic info , check the location of shops sells new sim cards here .

ideacellular.com

3-Electrolytes

The pharmacists at “Medical Shop” may not be familiar with the term ” Electrolytes “, ask for “ORS packet ” he will show you at least 10 brands with different flavors , Electral,Enerzal etc . in India the best thing is that all things comes in tiny packaging also , you can by 10 gram coconut oil in small plastic bottle , 5 gram Colgate tooth paste in a small sache, a one time use shampo sache, 20 Gram bath soap etc ,very convenient for travelers ,and all dirt cheap!

4-Electricity Please don’t generalize ,since the target audience of your blog is a non Indians who never been to any part of India. it all depend on the place one stay ,a 2$ a night shack taps electricity from nearby power line by throwing and hooking cables to it , so there will be heavy fluctuations if there is wind !, my brother’s 1st generation iPad is working fine till now in India, Apple sells 500K iPhones in India in every 4 months ( Economic times report ) yes electricity is not as consistent as in a developed nations , but it is quite safe to charge all your gadgets .

5- Temples I will not allow you in any of my temples 🙂 in south India ….. ha ha ha Generally Hindu temples does not allow non Hindu tourists strictly followed in South and in high profile temples in North. Mrs.Indira Gandhi (late Indian prime minister ) was not allowed to enter the temple of Lord Jagannath at Puri because she had married a Parsi (those who follows Zoroastrian Religion ) The non Hindu restriction is because the inner Sanctrum is supposed to be the holiest place in the temple architecture. There are certain rituals which a Hindu generally follows when he visits a temple, like not eating meat, taking bath etc. Probably, these things cannot be expected from a non-believer that is why he/she is restricted from entering the Sanctum. There are temple privately owned/on private ground, or publicly owned (ie, by the government). If it’s privately owned ( by Gurus Or God-man) then the owner has full jurisdiction , normally an orthodox Hindu like me will not go such noisy touristy temples . See some temples inside here dinamalar.com

thank you for reading

Hi Hemanth ji,

Thank you again for taking the time to share your thoughts. 🙂

1) I’m not disagreeing with you on the point about North vs South Indian restaurants – clearly there are not as many South Indian restaurants outside of India. My point is that it’s possible to find good authentic South Indian food all over the world. For example, there’s a great chain of South Indian restaurants in London, the US and around the world called “Woodlands”. Here is the London one’s website http://www.woodlandsrestaurant.co.uk/

2) Simcard access varies widely across the country and the government regularly changes the regulations. Even if you go to an official place that says they “sells new simcards here” and you follow their procedure giving your address & photo etc they may take sometime before approving it and then they can cancel the service without warning. People have told me that this tightness is to help counter terrorist activity but it seems a bit silly making it so difficult for tourists.

3) Yes, the medical shops or chemists carry all kinds of medicines and toiletries. My point is that the quality may not be the same as similar items bought in one’s home country and so if you’re particular about a brand then bring it from home. With that said it’s nice to be able to fall back on the medical shops in an emergency.

4) It is definitely not “quite safe to charge all your gadgets” in India, even at more classy hotels and homes the electricity can be very unreliable. As I’ve explained earlier, I have had an iPod, iMac and many Canon batteries get fried and the same has happened to friends. Even 5 star hotels occasionally can have power outages where they have to switch to generators.

5) In my experience, most Hindu temples do allow us tourists in if we are dressed correctly. Here is a list of some of the Hindu temples I’ve been in the inner sanctum without any questions (some of which are in South India):

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati, Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Tirupati Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain Harsiddhi Temple, Ujjain Grishneshwar Temple, Ellora Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple, Thiruvananthapuram Srikalahasti Temple, Srikalahasti Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi Maa Vindhyavasini Devi Temple, Vindhyachal Hanumangarhi, Ayodhya Vishwanath Temple, Uttar Kashi Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram Devi Kanya Kumari Temple, Kanyakumari and many, many more

The only place where I wasn’t allowed in the inner sanctum (unless I had “documents proving I was a Hindu”) was at the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai.

With regards to SIMcards…I found out too late that one can get a free tourist SIM card upon arrival at major airports . Virtually impossible once in the country. I’m only in India for a short time, so no big deal. But, if I had read it in Asher’s guide, I would have known to ask upon landing in Mumbai. . Having a great time here in Bhubaneswar. Heading toPuri and Konark tomorrow

Asher! You da pro! Brilliant, perceptive insights, clearly written, and highlighted with beautiful photos. You’ve covered practically everything with concise, essential advice worth many $1000s for any adventuresome pilgrims. Your love of India is obvious. Well done!

Thanks Doug!

It was a labor of love! 🙂

Dear Asher, I live in Bangalore near INFOSYS campus for the last 4 years , I never experienced any major power related issues ,nor my gadgets damaged due to power spike , only precaution I take is unplug the gadgets when there is thunder storm and lighting . And your info about entry to Indian temples may mislead the first time visitors. Advised to check Lonely Planet or Trip Advisor forum, for entry related info in south Indian temples. Every temple in Kerala is off-limits for non Hindus, there are generally signs up saying non-Hindus are not allowed in (mostly in Malayalam Script), Kerala seems to be the state in India where they are least open to having foreigners inside the Hindu temples, if you are non Hindu and enter the temple you are violating applicable rules, there won’t be much policing in most temple as it is a sacred place, no armed bouncers , so if nobody stops you at entrance don’t believe that you have the right for entry. Please respect the rules. Here is the Trivandrum Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple Web Site padmanabha.org/

It clearly says “Entry is restricted to those who profess the Hindu religion” This temple treasury hold sacks of diamonds and gold coins as well as golden idols, Estimation of its worth is not yet finished, but it thought to be around US$20 billion. Due to unearthing of treasure now there is heavy security now in this temple.

Hi Hariya ji,

Thank you for sharing your experience.

That’s great to hear about the Bangalore power supply. I’m sure it’s improving everywhere in India all the time. As a tourist visiting many places (often remote places) all in one trip, I think it’s important to be careful everywhere because it’s hard to know what the electricity will be like. And, like I’ve explained I’ve lost $1000’s of equipment before I learned how to take precautions. I now only bring a cheap PC laptop when I travel to India rather than my expensive Macbook and then I charge my other devices via USB through the laptop. I haven’t had a problem since doing this but I also never leave it plugged in when I’m away from my room or I see the light flickering.

Yeah, I agree Kerala seems to be the most strict with foreign tourists entering temples. Thanks for the added info.

This list is just so comprehensive, and clearly informed by years of experience travelling through India, which I have to say looks like a pretty daunting place to be! Thanks so much for sharing!

Glad to help! 🙂

please remove the word survival from it

Hi Shailendra,

I can see your point but for Westerners going to India on their first trip I think “survival” is an accurate word for the title of the guide.

No offense is meant by it.

– for drinking coconut water, you do not need a straw… ask the vendor to cut a deep groove on the side and drink straight out of the shell… I do that all the time … its nicer and a fun way to drink the water

– do not ever ever give money to beggars and children. the babies are kidnapped, drugged and made to go to sleep. there is a mafia behind the begging. all of that money goes to gangs. its hard … but you will get used to it.

– i strongly disagree with street food recommendations. all said and done the street food is not only cheap but guaranteed to be freshly cooked often in front of you. in contrast you know nothing about the food in four star and five star restaurants. the cooking kills the bacteria and germs. also, don’t be quick/harsh to judge hygiene by the environs of the stall/food carts. a personal judgement for approaching a right stall will develop in about a few days . some street carts are more crowded than others. in places like khao gallis(food streets) the food turnover is high and always fresh at the very least. acclimatise your taste buds and stomachs. do it steps if possible. spicy foods outright will affect you and hurt you especially if you never had spicy food before. give yourself atleast a couple of weeks with safer and blander varieties of Indian foods before jumping into traditional foods. Indian dal rice/dal kitchidi is safest and easily available foods to start out. you can start off bland and gradually grow to accept hot spiciness. stick to vegetarian and avoid meats. its not the food but water that can make you sick. be careful with water you drink, go for coke or pepsi if available. when in a new place the common rule is always head for the ones which are relatively crowded. miss out the street foods and you will miss out on a huge part of the cultural experience.

luv it, hate it … but you can never ignore India … 🙂 but why do some people luv and it and others hate it. if you dig in a bit deeper that’s because of expectations of the travellers themselves.

India is not an ideal place for short relaxing two week trips . in two weeks you will be in a cultural shock, mentally and emotionally drained and you are going to go back with feelings of frustration and negativity. backpackers on the other hand come in with fairly low expectations and mentally prepared to rough it out over a longer period of time. these people often go back with positives and light up the torch of their luv for India online.

India is best experienced at a very slow and an easy pace and very unsuitable for travellers with rushed itineraries. i will recommended it for backpackers and travellers with a longer and relaxed itineraries.

i’m an Indian by the way … and these are my personal opinions ….and i know my conclusions are broad and sweeping ones …. u may want to take it with a pinch of red chilli powder … or salt … whichever is available … 🙂

Hi Sandeep,

Thank you for the taking the time to add your thoughts! 🙂

1) Your method of drinking coconuts in India sounds interesting – the only thing I would be concerned with is the sanitization of the outside of the coconut?…

2) I agree for sure you should never ever give money to beggars – it fuels their “business”.

3) You make some great points about street food which make sense to me. Some people will never have trouble with Indian street food especially if they are smart about it like you’ve explained. I’ve personally made a conscious choice to simply avoid the street food (except for chai) for many reasons based on years of experience. The other thing that is often very difficult for a Westerner to digest is deep fried food which seems to be a common form of street food.

4) I agree, you should try to go to India for 1 month at a time minimum in order to fully get used to the culture and enjoy a more relaxing itinerary.

Thanks again for your contribution to my blog.

🙂 … hmmm asher… with regards to the coconut water … ask the vendor to cut a groove on the edge of rim opening … not on the side … and then tip the contents into ur mouth … well … just like u were to drink wine or beer … the shell is ur glass … well actually u don’t even need a groove… jus use the shell as ur glass and be done …. now this may seem a bit less erudite to the sophisticated western tourist … but it is my way of drinking the water …the cave man style … and its more fun … 😀

these days the vendors are more tourist savvy and i have often seen them draw out a fresh straw from a sealed pack. but yea … coconut water is nature’s own packed electrolyte and there is plenty available in India so go ahead have more coconut water.

there are three kinds of coconuts that the vendor sells pani wala (water coconut), halka malai (light coconut cream) and malai wala (coconut cream)

the water coconuts have more water and water is a bit salty and acts as a rejuvenating electrolyte. this is what i usually go for when i’m thirsty and need energy. the halka malai(light cream) is good too. the water is sweeter. after ur done drinking the water u hand over the shell back to the vendor who fashions out a small scrapper out of a piece of coconut shell and then uses that to scrape the cream sticking to the inner part of the shell. that is very nice and tasty. if the vendor forgets remind him to do that. the malai wala(thick cream) coconut has the sweetest tasting water and nice bits of coconut. i personally avoid this variety. the coconuts chunks are best enjoyed with jaggery which is available cheap in grocery stores. and another point to note is that these varieties are usually known differently in different parts of India … for eg Kerala down in south probably has different terms for the coconut varieties. Kerala grows some of the best coconuts in the country.

ok … i’m finally done here. never thought i would end up writing an exposition on coconuts … i never even knew i knew so much … 😀 😀

Thanks for sharing your detailed coconut water knowledge Sandeep ji!!

Namaste Asher Jee..

I agree with you. Just saw your tips for the people traveling to India are commendable and there is nothing wrong. Being an Indian, i firmly believe these thing persist.

Best regards for future…

Thanks Davendra ji!

Hello Asher,

I agree with you that you should set your expectations from the start. Be prepared. This way you will enjoy India while taking care of yourself at the same time.

Great Tips you have collected here, thanks for sharing.

Cheers, Pankaj

Thanks Pankaj ji!

Vey nice useful post, India is amazing if you are ready to admit it as it is. I was little bit afraid to visit India as it is absolutely diferrs from other countries I have been to before, but now I could say that if you are still in doubt, just go there!

Yes, I agree. It’s good to be prepared but then the only way to know what’s really like is to go there and experience it for yourself 🙂

This article is just amazing!! I’m travelling to India in December and after reading your post, I can’t help but wish its December already! will share with you my experience once I come back.

Thanks Joy!

Have a great trip and I’d love to hear your experiences when you get back. 🙂

Great Site! So many excellent tips! I’ve taken a pilgrimage to Mother India almost every year since 1970. Please check out our Pilgrims Guide at www.vanamaliashram.org . Mataji Vanamali is a Sagittarius… always on the go…always sharing her blessings in her writings…If you are not familiar with her writing, Please check out Sri Krishna Lila, Sri Hanuma Lila, Sri Devi Lila…. Also check out The Transformational Therapy/ Energy As Medicine Workshop That I will be offering in Tiru this January at www.weare1.us, Blessings, Arvind

That ashram looks interesting and Mataji seems really sweet 🙂

Thanks for sharing,

I’m so happy to find your article. I have read it a few times and I love it all! I’m traveling to India with my daughter next week. We are excited and nerveuos at the same time but with all your recommendations, I feel more prepared. Thank you so much for such a great tool and please, keep writing!

Thanks Yrama!

Your encouragement keeps me going! My writing is definitely a labor of love and feels so good to help fellow travelers 🙂

Enjoy your trip!

My 16 year old son has the opportunity to go to the Golden Triangle next May 24th for 9 days with a school tour. I could also go as a chaperone. He and I are both very interested and we have traveled quite a bit. However, it is supposed to be 90-105 the whole time. Is ot worth going in that heat taking buses etc? Or would it be better to go at a different time? Thanks, Julie

I personally think that it will be too hot for it to be worth it. The latest I have ever stayed in India was April 15th and it was already too hot for me then. I’m from Australia and can handle pretty hot temperatures but the heat in India without AC can be dangerous for Westerners. I recommend you travel to India from November through February for the best experience.

Hope this helps,

India is definitely worth a visit but be VERY wary of both scammers and any potential assistance required from a law firm. I was scammed of nearly $3,000 by Ganesh Prasad Nautiyal, an Indian tour guide, for a tour of Bhutan he did not deliver. The law firm I engaged in the fight for justice and to stop others being scammed, Ashok Gupta and Co, gave me stress, just kept asking for money and still produced no result after THREE summonses were issued. Just before I left Australia for India, I asked the Indian taxi driver for some tips about his country. He gave me just one: Trust no-one. I have learnt the hard way that, sadly, he was right.

Thanks for sharing your experience and sorry it was not a good one! 🙁

One thing that I always do is not pay for a service upfront (where ever possible). This forces the vendor to deliver the service before running off with your money.

I agree that you should “trust no-one” at least at first and definitely always be super cautious with large sums of money.

Great articles about India from everybody. I am an Indian bought up in the west mostly and I have been to India 3 times in the past 25 years & spent at least 2 months at a time there. First time was certainly a culture shock and I wanted to get back onto the plane! but given time to understand its diversity & culture made me more of an understanding person. Yes there are scams, uncleanliness, pushing etc.. but still when you look at the western way of life it is kind of ‘camouflaged’ and hidden. The Indian life is open & roar it always fascinates me to compare and at times I do not know where I lie between the two. I still take the precautions of the western bloggers for added security but have found subtle changes in 25 years. Like I say it is an extremely interesting experience and for me a life changer in my thinking and thoughts.

Thanks for your perspective!

I see what you mean about feeling like you are between the two. I feel so at home in India that sometimes I forget I am a Westerner 🙂

Great tips for travelling in India. India is a great destination for tourists. There are importance tips! rishiajaydas.org/

Thanks Rishi! 🙂

Hi and thank you for 201 wonderful tips.

We are soon traveling to India from Norway, have been invited of some lokals from Chennai. I off course want to bring a gift, but I have not got a clue. Do you have a tip nr 202 for me? What to bring?

I would bring something unique to Norway that isn’t very expensive but is special to you. For example some kind of small food item that would be a novelty in India. Or maybe some nice postcards or a picture of you in Norway in a small frame. Or even a nice new $1 note or small coin from your home country can be a cherished gift.

I’m sure you’ll think of something.

Also be ready for the pollution and chaos of Chennai – it’s a busy place with narrow streets.

Nice travel tips!! Nina -> You can bring pick up some chocolates or perfumes which will work in most cases. I have a blog at http://giftsforindia.com about gifts ideas for India. It has more ideas.

I had experience working in Mumbai last year. Although India can be initially overwhelming for someone coming from a Western nation, with a little time to acclimatise, it can be one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences of your life. I loved the Mumbai second hand markets around Mutton Street, where I found vintage Bollywood posters. The people I met there were warm and generous of spirit. So much so that I made this short film: https://vimeo.com/151162654

Loved your short! It gave a glimpse into Mumbai. You must have an awesome camera – the quality is beautiful!

Nice vid, Dan!

Downloaded your ebook. Thanks. Will be visiting India in November for two weeks. Obviously, never been there, but figured it would be fun visit such a place. I’ll just go wherever the wind takes me. Again, thanks.

That’s awesome Ben!

I’ve done that a few times in India and ended up having the most amazing time meeting the locals and going all kind of unplannable adventures 🙂

Dear Asher, Greetings of the day !

I am really impressed with the effort taken by you to organize the website pages with the required details.And the of piece of support by words needed for any traveller. I was planning to write a blog about Travel to india and reached to your website. About me – you can visit my page. I wanted to ask your permission to use your web information in my blog page to offer the travel in India to my students who visit Rishikesh or Other part of India. I am part of Yoga and Meditation School and acknowledged that the details embedded in your posts are really useful for travellers.

For any questions or if you wish to share any info which you wish to highlight in my blog page. Do share me – [email protected]

Hi Sarvottam ji

Thank you. Yes, you can quote parts of my website on your website but please link back to the source articles on my site.

Thanks and good luck with your school!

Thank you for all the information. I am married to an Indian. But he moved to America when he was 4 years old. We are going back alone for the first time soon. I will be honest, I am scared to death. But the information I got here made me feel a little better. I am sure it will be weird for them to see a white girl married to an Indian boy. Any more advice?

I would ignore the starring that you will inevitably get. Don’t worry if you turn heads just be proud and stand strong. It doesn’t seem to be rude to stare in India. You will find it can be overwhelming at times but the main thing is to just ignore it and you’ll have a great time.

Hi Asher Your post is really very good . Mostly all where in many post or blog i read same things what tourist write about india. I lived in india and planning traveling all tourist place in my country without takeing money (its a chalenge) for write my experience. And want add some more point of views what foreigner or many indian travelers may be not write about India. I have some ideas and want write all that very soon. I send you message here because may be in future i need to copy paste your some views in my website or blog when i started then. I hope you give me permission to copy paste some things

Hi Amit ji,

You can copy and paste sections of my website but please link back to me as the source.

hi Asher Thanks to give my permission. when i create my site and copy-paste some text then i send you link

Hello Asher

So far I have only read your ’17 things to pack for India and what NOT to take’ article as my Internet Connection has been down. I’m going on a tour of South India for three weeks next Saturday with Exodus Travel and thank goodness I’m now up and running again, so I shall be able to read the e-book you sent me and everything else on here.

I have a question about the camera you recommended, the Canon PowerShot SX410 (there’s also the SX400 but I read that the 410 is meant to be the better one). It is presently half-price in Argos and the reviews on their website are good. However the reviews on the Amazon website, which you give as a link, are pretty bad, so I’m not sure what to do. Apart from my old SLR camera (but not DSLR, so consequently you pay a lot nowadays when you get the film developed), I have been using a Fuji Finepix 10 compact camera when on holiday. However these old cameras take XD memory cards rather than SD ones, which are not easily obtainable, and it doesn’t have much of a zoom and, while I’m buying cards, I could be putting the money towards this Canon bridge. (I would buy a DSLR but don’t have time to do the research on it or learn it before I go, which is why I’m interested in this much cheaper bridge camera for this trip.)

BUT on the Amazon website people are saying that it doesn’t have a viewfinder, the pictures taken on full zoom are blurry and that images are not sharp. One person says you need to go to a camera shop and get a polariser if you’re going to use it on a sunny day and another to save your money and look elsewhere. I don’t have a viewfinder on mine and do indeed find it annoying just to see my reflection in the screen rather than the image I want to take, even though the pictures, surprisingly, usually seem to turn out quite well.

I think you must have used this camera and liked it or you wouldn’t suggest it, so I’d like your take on this please. It’s cheap enough at £119 (or £99.99 for the SX400), so I was planning to buy it until I saw the reviews on Amazon. Strange that they’re so different on Argos. I need to get something very quickly and could buy this one at Argos early next week. Also it sounds as though it’s easy to use. I don’t want to miss being able to photograph wonderful scenes and people in India, so would think in the circumstances it would be worth going for. I would love to hear what you think? And thank you. Also thank you for all the information which I’m looking forward to reading this weekend. Anna

Yes, I have used that camera and liked it. I prefer my DSLR Canon 60D nowadays but for a point and shoot, that Canon Powershot camera does the trick. Almost all the pictures on this blog post https://www.asherfergusson.com/2010/07/experience-maharishis-funeral-cremation-allahabad-india-2008/ were taken with that camera.

Have a wonderful trip!

Great post!! very effective guide for travellers. I also want to add tips for selecting the budget hotel. To know more visit : http://www.katriyahotel.com/blog/budget-hotel-in-hyderabad/

Thank you Shanti.

Good Asher, you described India very well. Really loved your blog.

amazing amazing resource you’re written here. Thank you so much for sharing it with us. Your tips are really well thought out and written.

Thanks Jay!

It was a labor of love 🙂

Thanks Santhosh ji! 🙂

You’re awesome, thank you so much for this information 🙂 this will help me have the trip of my life :).

Such positivity and light and so great that you share this information and your experiences.

A wonderful Resource.

Namaste Dayna

Thank you Dayna – it’s so nice to be able to help fellow travelers have a trip of a lifetime! 😀

As an Indian I have shared some of my tips while travelling in an Indian train…and how to make that a beautiful experience. http://solotravellerindia.blogspot.com/2016/03/tips-for-beautiful-indian-train-journey.html

Hi Milind ji,

Your link is broken 🙁

Wow. You have covered all the points very beautifully. As an Indian living in South India, if I need to add any points, I can do very little. Hats Off!

And wishes for a happy and safe trip to India!

Hi Sampath,

Thanks for your encouragement – it’s nice to be endorsed by an local! 😉

It was great to read a very detailed guide to travel in India from a different point of view. Being an Indian in India, reading the post was eye opening to me. Thank you for such a detailed description.

Thank you – I’m glad you got something from my site! It’s been a labor of love 🙂

To all travellers. I did a e-visa application in decmeber 2015. I was charged twice and it is impossible to have a refund. At the helpdesk I am asked to make an email with my credit card voucher, and when I make an email with all the proofs, they ask me to call the callcenter. But no refund is done since then (we are now 5 months later !). And no help from the local Ambassy in Brussels. Does someone had te same problem in the past ? And how was it solved ?

Sorry you had this experience. Indian bureaucracy can be a nightmare. Unfortunately I don’t know if you will be able to resolve it at this points… 🙁

Wonderful article!! Precise compilation of tips to travel in India. I wrote an article for motorcyclists preparing for long trips in Inda. Do leave your feedback 🙂

http://www.budgetyatri.com/2016/04/travel-tip-for-staying-healthy-on-the-road-while-travelling.html

Hi, Asher! Brilliantly captured advice! As a travel writer and inter-cultural adviser for expats relocating to India I could relate to it perfectly. Most of it is spot on. It would be good to connect further. Cheers! Bindu

Glad you liked it and think that it’s accurate. Feel free to contact me if you want to connect.

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this! I’ve travelled extensively, but you just never know what you might have missed when you’re in a new country. You answered pretty much every question I had, including whether I should’ve shook hands when I arrived (I didn’t, just to be safe) and what sort of mark up I should expect when bargaining. When they start at 2000, I’m scared I’ll offend if I counter with 50, so you’ve put my mind at ease. Thanks!

Great! I hope you get some good deals – Indian’s are the best negotiators on the planet! If they smile after the transaction then you know they still made money 😉

well explained, liked it as I am planning my first trip to India at the end of this year. Cheers

every country got scammer. nothing special about India, Singapore is the worse.

I am planning to go India, but I was hit by a stroke 2 weeks before my trip to Kashmir. Indian Airline did refund me some money. Now I could not walk much. I got a budget to a walk, for only 1/2 hour a day. After that I am tired and my legs are loose.

Hey! Really great job with collecting and putting all together! Many many pieces of advice esp on food and water etc are However I would like to give separate opinion on “comments and responses” front. While going through all of them I would need to say that I started having an impression that some comments – responses sound like comparing and bragging on who lived longer where or who travelled more places and paid less/more for hotel with or without toilet paper. Who learned more sanscrit or visited cheaper places after meditation. Seems after 10 days of sitting boy we want to talk That is true anyway just why would one want to prove another something different anyway. Everyone has their own experience finding toilet paper after all

Good points 😉

oh sh….sorry…the smiley faces did not appear in my previous message (smile) where they had to be…oh well…let them disappear. I also wanted to say that advice about mafia existing in India is very helpful. I really did not suspect about that. Thanks

Yes, it’s important to be aware that the mafia does exist in India and to have your wits about you especially in big cities such as Delhi and Mumbai.

what a lovely post it is… I am glad with some of them points are listed in the points. I like this post very much…

This is really great site, it will surely be helpful for the ones who are planning to visit India, really nice.

Hi, my friend and I have been travelling India for the past 5 days. So far we have visited Delhi and are currently on our second night in Agra. Since being in Agra, for both evening meals we have ordered curry and have felt very ‘spaced out’ after eating this, exactly the feeling you would get if you were high or had taken truffles (lasts about an hour) At first we thought we had been spiked after the first night as the empty restaurant seemed a little dodgy. However after eating a different meal at our 5 star hotel the following night, we had the exact same feeling. Do you know anything that would cause this or have any advice? Thank! (It’s only happened in Agra so far, all meals in Delhi were completely fine)

Hi Katherine,

I’m guessing it might be MSG or some other kind of food additive. My wife has experienced a similar thing at a Thai restaurant in the US and said it sounds exactly like what you’re describing. I believe some people are allergic to MSG and that’s what causes the “space” or “high” experience.

Hope this helps and have fun on your trip!

Thanks for this lovely article, very informative info & beautifully written, great 🙂

Thank you Nasir! 😀

India also have many cultures around it based on the places, I think you are visited around north india places. The south culture will varied from that.

Hi Sangeetha,

I have spend many months in South India. You’re right it is very different from North India but my tips above definitely still apply.

Hi!!! I read your advices and every post… I enjoyed a lot, and i wish you write some more 🙂

Dear Travellers, Namaskar !!

Saying namaskar is our culture because we see god in a human beings. India is very beautiful country with so much things to know, above things are so true and well explained. But, when you hire travel agency for your trip to india then you don’t have eto worry about these things becuase we take care of your needs.

Do not hesitate to travel india, and it will be my pleasure to recommend you all here. It’s our website (www.splendidvacationsindia.com) anyone wants to visit india do let us know. We offer best to best services with deligence and honesty 🙂 🙂

What a great blog! We (a family of 4) are in our way to india on Monday 9/5/2016 and can’t wait to be there… Thank you from Tokyo for all the great information.

Antonio Tokyo

Thanks Antonio!

Thanks you for sharing such wonderful safety tips to survive in India please keep it updating.

Your site is amazing. thanks for the great travel tips. cheers!

Namaste Asher Ji I am still laughing remembering the points you mentioned: 1. They over feed you when you are a guest by saying you don’t eat much, look at your health, how weak are you, take some more. 2. 1minute expands to 5-10 minutes always, it’s kind of ritual here. It’s so honest and it’s so true. Such detailings you have noticed, it shows how much India is in your blood now. I wish you keep enjoying being a part of India . Keep traveling, keep spreading love, wisdom and useful information. Love and Peace Kuldeep

Thanks Kuldeep ji!

Glad you got a kick out of my writing 😀

Thanks for all your help and advice! I’m off to Nagpur in a few weeks but can’t seem to get a straight answer on what us ladies should wear!

The trip revolves around a Buddhist retreat and won’t be visiting any other religious places.

I’ve heard shorts past the knee are ok then shorts that are 2/3″ above the ankle are ok and that the ankles must be covered so trousers are needed…. What do I need to wear?!

I have shorts that are past the knee but only one pair of thin trousers so may need to go shopping!!

I think the simplest and best thing is to buy some local punjabi’s when you get there. Here is what they look like .

It is fine to wear flip flops (thongs) as footwear and I don’t think your ankles need to be covered. Just make sure your not wearing anything too revealing.

Have a great time!

Hey! First off thank you so much for your super informative blog and tips. Reall really good stuff.

At your invitation, I am going to write you with a question:

I’m in India and got open cuts (from running off into the bushes and climbing on rocks) that I’m not sure how best to clean.

First off, not sure what kind of things could be there at the initial moment of the cutting, and second off, washing an open cut in Indian tap water doesn’t sound like a good idea. I did it anyway since I couldnt figure out an alternative and wanted to take a shower.

Any idea what kind of diseases I just put myself at risk for? Any tips on how to best take care of it? (Rinse in purified water maybe?)

I put disinfectant on it and covered in ointment (cuts are on feet and hands).

I know you’re not a doctor but cuts aren’t unusual so I’m just curious how you’ve dealt with things like this in the past.

Sorry to hear you got cuts! I would definitely make sure your wounds are well disinfected with something good like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol. Then I would keep them covered in bandaids to prevent further foreign bodies entering. Another trick may be surprising is to use honey on the wounds after you’ve disinfected them.

Hope this helps! And this proves another good reason to bring a travel first aid kit .

Rajasthan is the best place to visit in India. It it is the only place in India that is very famous for its Culture , Visiting Palaces and Foreigner Tourist. You can here visit Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ranakpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Udaipur. This is the best state for the Wildlife Tours also. Golden triangle tour with Ranthambore Tour Packages are the best option to visit here.

Amazing work, Asher.

Being an Indian, this is the most comprehensive list I have ever seen for travelling to India.

You have very well put out all the points which will be helpful for anyone travelling to India for the first time and even for those who are from there (like me!)

People visiting any country have a better, un-biased view of things than it’s residents! And I loved your style of writing!

Thank you Amandeep! I’m glad you like my writing 🙂

Hi Asher Fergusson, I am glad to know that you have travelled whopping 7 times uptill now. Understandably, you are in a much better position to write a detailed article about the tips to travel in India. I agree on all the points especially when it comes to drinking bottled water which you should purchase from a busy and main hotel shop. Similarly, bargaining is another attributive factor where majority of Indians are quite best at and as a traveller, you have to master the skills . Lastly, trains being the most obvious transport is slow when compared to other developed countries and you have to start at a slow pace, and soon you will get familiar with the traditions, which you rightly spoke about as well. Overall, Indians take things at their own pace, meaning unlike U.S where people are busy literally 24*7, here you can see people passing their evenings strolling or at the street shops munching some thing or the other.

Being a research writer, I have also written a post on Top reasons to visit India here http://socialchaal.com/2016/09/28/top-10-reasons-to-visit-india/

Thanks for adding your perspective Afzal. 🙂

I have no word to express my filling even I couldn’t recognise the time while reading this article. Seriously I loved the way you express your journey through India.

// beautiful flower arrangements outside peoples homes // Its called “pookkalam” 🙂

And onam is the biggest celebration in kerala celebrated by all the keralites irrespective of religion, cast, social status etc…

Thanks for the addition Neeraj! 🙂

Asher (and all):

My wife and I will be visiting Mumbai for 5-6 days for the first time in a couple of weeks, staying near the U.S. Consulate. I’ve read the Lonely Planet and have a good idea what to do, but does anyone have any recommendations for places to see and things to do?

We’re a reasonably active couple in our mid-thirties from the east coast of the USA – we’ve traveled to Europe and South America, and when we like to see a lot and especially get up to a place where we have views (climbing up steps to towers, etc).

Thanks in advance for any insight!

One place that may be somewhat off the beaten path that is cool is the deity, Mahalakshmi who resides at a seaside temple in Breach Candy, South Mumbai, 2 km north of Babulnath. These are the Deities who many believe to be responsible for Mumbai’s great wealth and prominence. A temple has been here for thousands of years, but the present temple is from the 18th century. The murthi appeared on the beach, and was duly installed. Circumambulation of the mandir includes many other shrines and seaside meditation sites. 6am-Noon, 4:30-8:30pm. Crowded on weekends.

HI ASHER I AM COMING TO KERALA LATE NEXT YEAR, CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT THE SITUATION IS REGARDING ALCOHOL, I UNDERSTAND THAT ONLY 5 STAR HOTELS NOW HAVE A LICENCE TO SELL ALCOHOL, IS THIS TRUE? I EAGERLY AWAIT YOUR REPLY, REGARDS JOHN.

I think you are right that it is only 5 star hotels able to sell alcohol in the state of Kerala now. See here for more details http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-35192246

India’s Supreme Court has upheld Kerala state’s decision to ban the sale and consumption of alcohol in bars.

The court rejected a petition by bar owners to overturn the ban, which restricts liquor sales and consumption to bars in five-star hotels.

The southern state wants to shut bars in a move towards total prohibition within 10 years. Kerala has India’s highest per capita alcohol consumption at more than eight litres per person yearly.

The national annual average for alcohol consumption is estimated to be about 5.7 litres per person.

The government wants to make the southern state free from alcohol in the next 10 years to “protect youth from destroying their lives”.

Its a very complete list and guide..so useful no wonder it bcome popular post thank u for sharing

My pleasure. 😀

Dear Asher,

I am currently planning my first ever visit to India.

During my initial research into planning my trip I felt rather nervous and overwhelmed about what to ‘expect’.

Now, after reading many of your posts and your fabulous free e-book, I am most excited and very much looking forward to ‘expecting the unexpected’, with an open, caring and respectful mind.

Although India is a country that has fascinated me for many years, and I realise that nothing can describe one’s experience better than experiencing it oneself (by ‘being’ there), I’d like to thank you most gratefully for creating this post and for sharing your tips and experiences.

I’d also like to thank all of the above people for sharing their comments too on your post.

“Thank you.”

Kind Regards, Dean

Thanks Dean!

It is really encouraging to get feedback like yours. It inspires me to keep on writing and sharing everything I know about India travel.

“Thanks” understates my respect for your single-India-info-source effort. I read thru your entire e-book and all comments of substance just to validate what I have learned in 20 years of solo world travel and to pick up what I didn’t know. Ironically, at 76 I think I am winding down on the ‘hard’ travel. Again, Thanks. Solowild

Thanks Solowild! 🙂

Asher, great job. Heading off to India for my first time in June and so looking forward to it. You have answered a lot of my questions here. Andy

I’m glad you found my writing useful. Let me know if you have any questions.

I am trying to book a tour of india and found a great deal but how can I check if this company is legitimate ?? Is there some sort of checking system?? There are some reviews online (videos on you tube) of guests but wonder fi there was a tourist athority in india to check and be sure I am sending money to a genuine travel company Cheers and thanks for the info…

I am not aware of a checking system except for Googling reviews of a company but they can be faked. The tour company I recommend and trust is Intrepid .

Thanks for the excellent information. I am 2-3 x/year in India for the next 5 years- I am excited and nervous at the same time being a late 40 yr old guy travelling on my own. Your info was great

Change your Old India Rupees Note to

U.S Dollar at an Affordable Rate,

with-out Paying any Tax. Contact Us

Today for more Details.+917829609573

or email [email protected]

Its always fun to read your post. Well those tips are helpful. If you need any help in India mail us.

Hi Asher, Your information is really clear and useful – it’s really going to help us in our upcoming visit to India. I have a quick query which I’d appreciate your opinion on. We are staying in a couple of homestays in India and the first one in Delhi has said that he’s got a special ‘reverse osmosis’ system in the water in his home which saves his guests the expense of buying drinking water. I’ve done some googling but I don’t feel I’ve come up with a definitive answer as to whether it’s worth risking or not. I appreciate that it could cause offence so I wondered if you’d come across this and could offer any advice? Many thanks.

We are traveling in December with our family. There are 12 of us from 10 years to 81 years. We are staying in mostly luxury hotels. What advice do you have for us?? We are going to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodpur, Mumbai, Kerala.

Do we need mosquito netting? In Kerala on houseboat?? Toilet Tissue? Shampoo? etc. Shower shoes??

Lots of questions, but I don’t want to take stuff we don’t need

Dear Jacquie Boynton , Defiantly Dec is the perfect month to travel any part of India, In Kerala houseboat you will get the Toilet Tissue and shampoo but I suggest you must carry your personal brand shampoo. shower shoes hmmm you will not get any hotel also not in houseboat. You can get the disposable slippers at the hotel room that is for sure because you have chosen the luxury hotels. Feel Free to ask any question Happy to help you [email protected]

Nice tips to travel all over india.

This piece of writing is really a good one it helps new web viewers, who are wishing for blogging.

Hi Asher, Your dedication and zeal all through your journey is inspiring many like me who actually starts feeling jealous of you. :p On a serious note, you have shown that there is a “life” beyond our comfort zones as well. 🙂 Thanks for sharing

Great info Asher, thank you. I have one question. I am planning a trip for my 17yr old son and I to Delhi. The only time I can make it for 8 days is in June. How bad would the temperatures or monsoon season be at that time?

I personally think it might be too hot to go then because it would regularly be over 100 degrees. The monsoon doesn’t normally hit Delhi until later in June.

The only consolation of that time is that the pollution levels are usually quite a bit less because there are not as many cooking or harvesting fires going.

Hi Asher! Thanks for all this great info! I’m a solo female traveler and leave next week. I start my travels at my best friend’s wedding in Mumbai for a week and when I bid them farewell I’m off for a 10 day journey to 5 cities by myself. I would not have considered street food to be unclean and I probably would have accidentally brushed with tap (I did that in Africa on accident) I got really sick in Africa after eating street food and I never even thought about it. I wish I had taken charcoal and pro-biotics (Thanks for the links I just put in my order for 2 day shipping)

I travel alone often and it is really great to get detailed insite, although I don’t usually have too much anxiety, I love being overly informed. Thanks also for the airport tips as I am on a short schedule and only taking flights between Mumbai-Goa-Varanasi-Delhi

Also found the female advise helpful and with long road trips between Delhi/Jaipur/Agra I will now be more prepared. Also thanks on the specific brands of water tips!

Really can’t say enough thanks. I’ll say hello again when I return 🙂 Blessings and Namaste.

I’m so glad to be of service. Thanks for the encouraging feedback!

Have a fantastic trip!

When they ask for your address do they want where you’re staying in India? Or your address back home? I’m just going to travel around for a few months so I don’t really know where I’ll be. Do you think that will be a problem? Can I just use my hotel in Delhi as my address in India?

They want your address in India. Yes, use your Delhi hotel address.

PS I’m talking about buying a SIM card…

Hi Asher, first of all thank you for putting this really comprehensive guide together! This is really amazing and I can really tell how much you enjoy your time in India. Also the photos are stunning!

Thanks Therie! 🙂

I am a big fan and I really like this so I will share (once I get a Gmail)

Good Day Asher, Thanks so much for the details, I feel better prepared. We’re going to Delhi in Dec for a friend’s wedding and our son has asthma. Our local friend will be taking us to the ‘street market’ and we’re looking forward to seeing a few local sites. Should we get a mask for him? where? Or do we bring one with us? Would him wearing a mask attract unwanted attention? or should we just limit our time outside? Thanks in advance, Stephen

Hi Stephen,

Delhi is one of the most polluted cities in the world. I don’t have asthma but I have difficulty breathing there. So I would definitely avoid too much going outside.

With that said this is the mask I would recommend and I would get it before you go https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=NE9S7KDYNBB3TB74KW44&linkCode=ll1&tag=1331-ipl-20&linkId=ecef99e7bcd97a412d66516266c706c9 I don’t think it would draw too much extra attention.

Good Day Asher, We have returned from India, the air quality was indeed horrible. We brought ‘Cambridge Masks’ with us, prevented breathing discomfort for us all and enjoyed the wonderful wedding. Thanks for your blog, it was key to our preparation. Regards, Stephen

Adapter problem is the main problem in India for the foreigners because adaptors used in India are different than other countries. So it is better to use your own extension. Drink bottle water, don’t eat street food because sometimes it may unhygienic.

Yes, here are the adapters my company sells https://www.amazon.com/Premium-India-Power-Adapter-Grounded/dp/B01MAX1PDT?tag=1331-ipl-20

Lots of great tips to survive this country alone, all while having a great time!

These tips are useful and helpful for us .foreigners can have a lot of fun in India.there are green hills ,green fields and beaches in India , I would recommend to visit to kasoli ,manali these places.

I love the beaches in Kerala – they’re so relaxing and dreamy! 🙂

Couldn’t have written it better. As an Indian, I can understand how overwhelming traveling in the country is, especially when you are stared at But truth be told, I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. Feels nice to have people appreciate your culture and accept it for all it’s faults Thank you for sharing this. Stay blessed. Malvika.

Thanks Malvika! 🙂

Wow killer tips on India., Good stuff. We spent 4 weeks in India on a whirlwind itinerary visiting 6 different regions yet only really scratching the surface of this complex and diverse country.

Loved your photos! And glad you like my tips 🙂

Wow, thank you very much for the effort. Going to India in a couple weeks so that is really helpful. Especially the tips for not getting scammed are awesome since I´m quite good at getting ripped off.

Haha – I’m so glad you’ve found it useful! It makes my day to get comments like this 😀

Memorize those scams and you will minimize the chances of falling for them!

Correct, we all Learn from mistakes. lol!

Thank you so much Asher, your tips is super useful for prepare my India trip.^=^

My pleasure, Kunlada!

Hi Asher Your Experience with India Tour help other foreigners too and it is really great and valuable information to all tourists or foreigners. It’s glad to know you are appreciated other country’s culture. Stay Blessed and Keep Visiting India.

I think this is one of the best-written posts about India – with almost everything being covered. India overwhelms an outsider at first, but slowly but surely draws travelers around the world 🙂 The best way to experience India is to be open minded!

Thanks Reshma! Yes, India will teach you to be open minded if you’re not already! 🙂

Thank you so much for this useful information. This is one of the best tips and reviews I had read for India. Again thanks.

My pleasure, Reza!

I’m glad you found it useful 🙂

Internet access. How is internet in the cities, such as Rishikesh? My partner relies on his internet connection to work. Can you find hostels or rent a house with strong and fast internet in Rishikesh? Thanks

Internet varies widely across India and even within a city.

Most accommodations offer wifi but it can be very slow. If you want to get reliable fast Internet, the best bet is a 4G Dongle like this http://www.airtel.in/4g/index#!plans-and-devices/on-the-go

Have a great trip!!

India is many things to many people. Keep an open mind when you get there and take each day as it comes. Having an itinerary is important because the country is too big with thousands of tourist attractions.

Hi Asher, I have 3 American friends whom I met while on journey to NeyYork and I finally persuaded them to come to India after 4 years of being in touch. They liked coconut water and spicy food and local transport especially tonga Your post is indeed a total reflection of the extent of awesomeness which they have encountered in their journey to India

Hi Asher, thanks for all the awesome info. Quick question (well, depends… :). My friend & I are off to India for a month in Feb-March, flying into Delhi. I want to see Varanasi, he wants to see turquoise waters and we both want to do some hiking and see the hill stations, probably in Kerala. Any beach suggestions for pretty landscape & less crowds? Would like to avoid Goa! Cheers & continued happy travels!

I’ve heard great things about Varkala. It is quite crowded but it’s very beautiful. There might be some less popular beaches nearby there too.

I wanted to express thanks for creating this site! I was just googling “what to eat in India” and your site popped up! It was a pleasant surprise since I think we have some Fairfield friends in common.

Leaving for my second trip to India this week and your site reminded me of a few things I need to pack!

Best, Genevieve

Hi Genevieve!

Thanks! I’m glad you found my site helpful! 🙂

And yes, I think we have a lot of friends in common. I know Heather H. and Austin A. quite well. I love how small the Internet makes the world.

Have a wonderful time in India!!

Thank you Asher for the wealth of information. I’m leaving next week for New Delhi and this endeavor of yours has helped tremendously.

One question: I’d like to hire a driver who might also serve as a tour guide for the 2 weeks I’m there. Do you have any ideas?

Once again, thanks for your splendid work!

Namaste, Leo

Excellent blog. There are so many places to travel in India. Foreigners can have a lot of fun in India. There are green hills, green fields in India.You have sharewd in detail. Its really appreciable.

Just came across this site and want to tell you how informative it is. My husband and I will be leaving for India the end of October with a small tour group and basically visiting the golden triangle region Delphi,Agra and Jaipur for a few days then off to Nepal for a few more. Question: What is your opinion / requirement On immunization. Should We be taking malaria pills before leaving, hepetitus A and B vaccines. Don’t mind being vaccinated for hepetitus but don’t really want to take malaria medication. I hear you need to take before and after a trip and it can also make you sick.

Excellent tips and its one of the most comprehensive lists i have read in a while! Thanks Asher

Im going to india with my boyfiend for three weeks in January and after reading this I AM SO EXCITED. I wish we had longer to visit!

In India there is many temples and cultural tourist places,these are very different and wonderful from another. every one like tourist places in India and wants to take a lot of fun in these places in India.

I think this post is sufficient for new visitors in India. Thank you so much for all your effort on this blog. I really appreciate it. While searching on India travel I found your site.

The Post has been written incredibly with lots of pictures. Thanks for writing on India.

Thank you Asher for all the invaluable information. I am months away from visiting India and your guide will be my compass for preparation. Just one comment, I am 74, US resident and the travel insurance company you mentioned (and I found the same about most others) has a cutoff at 69 yrs. As I am sure a good percentage of your readers are seniors you may consider to present information aimed at them. I have found Allianze here as one place where seemingly there is no age limit. Cheers, Joseph

I’ve heard some people mention that. I’m sorry World Nomads doesn’t cover your age group. I will look into Allianz.

We really enjoy all the usefull tips on your site; they’re highly appreciated. We started following usefull travel tips since we have booked flights to Delhi this Winter 2017 travelling two adults and our three 14-11-8 year children. We’ve booked camel safari in Jaisalmer, Thar desert but all train tickets are sold out and the domestic flight is quite expensive (INR 124.000/five persons) but the only option still avaliable.

Alternatively we have looked at Pushkar desert that is easier to reach.

Do you have any knowledge of the difference between the two desert areas – would Jailsalmer be worth the difference in cost and travel time?

Hope to hear from you, and greetings from Denmark

Regards Valdemar

Hi Valdemar,

Sounds like a great trip you’ve got planned!

I don’t have experience in the difference between those two deserts. Although, I’ve found that if you can minimize travel time within India it’s always a good thing and saving the money is a bonus too! 🙂

Have a wonderful time!

Excellent article with so many useful tips about India. I am so happy that i stumbled upon to this blog. I have not seen a comprehensive India Travel Guide blog post like this before. Thank you for sharing it!

Thanks Serhat.

thanks for sharing about india, it will help people who visit india first time. once again thanks author to share interesting info about india and india’s culture.

Great tips Asher!

I’ve been to India before but that was back in 2005! I’m going to India again next year, so some of your updated tips will come in handy as many things have changed.

Thanks for writing and sharing it!

Excellent – let me know how your trip goes! 🙂

Am looking for advice on hiring a driver/car for a longer distance. Specifically from Jaipur to Tordi Sagar, and then Tordi Sagar to Pushkar.

I always ask at my hotel for the person they recommend and I’ve almost always ended up with great drivers.

Hello, thanks for the great blog! Very helpful, the link to your travel adapter given in the PDF book says that it is not compaitable in India? Is this the incorrect link? Many thanks

Thanks! Yeah, I am currently out of stock of the India adapter so for some reason Amazon is forwarding any links to my International adapter which is not compatible with India. I know it’s confusing!

The India adapter will be back in stock within the next day or so.

Hello, thank you for such a lovely blog. I am very good friends with some Indian men I work with who invited my husband and me to visit their hometown outside of Mumbai. We would be guests in one of their mothers’ house.

I am so excited to explore the beautiful colors, tastes, and sounds of India and meet his warm and friendly family.

My concern is that I am chronically ill and I rely on my husband very much. I am so worried about not being able to touch him or hold his hand in public when I need assistance and going through the airline queues alone etc.

I do not look sick. But I suffer from severe chronic pain and weakness and other health problems. Some days I cannot get out of bed and I am worried my hosts will think I am disrespectful because I actually look fairly fit.

I am also terrified of the unclean water and I have extremely uncommon food intolerances (all grains of any kind, potatoes, eggplant, dairy, soy and a few more) I am so worried about offending my hostess if I cannot eat something. Also, I am asthmatic and concerned about pollution and not being able to find a hospital if I get sick.

As an unlucky aside…. I am left handed… oh well.

Anyway, I have always wanted to go to India. I want to meet my friend’s family, learn about the culture, appreciate the food and history. If I don’t go now, I may never get another chance.

I was so excited about the invitation but sometimes I feel too sick to leave my house let alone my country.

How can I make preparations for my health without offending my friends by implying their country is unclean?

I want to travel but I am way too sick to risk food poisoning or eat something I am allergic to because I don’t want to mortify my friend’s mother.

Hi Jessica,

I am so sorry to hear about your health challenges – it sounds very hard. 🙁

To be totally honest, I don’t think it’s a good idea to go to India with these challenges you mention. India is a wild place and I don’t think you would have a good time based on what you’ve said.

If you really want to go I would consult your doctor for professional advice.

thank you for this great blog. i am looking for information about the best way to connect to the internet while traveling through india. (for work purposes, not just skype, email, google maps. i want to be sure that i can upload/download large files). i am considering getting a trabug phone, but wondering if i will be able to connect my macbook air to that wifi. i’ve been looking into services that deliver the wifi device to you in the US, but i am having a hard time finding if they work in india. any advice would be much appreciated!

I would use a USB 4G Wifi dongle that you can get in India. Here is some info from Airtel https://www.airtel.in/4g/index#!plans-and-devices/on-the-go

The challenge may be in getting the device as a foreigner. If you have any business colleagues in India – I would ask them to see if they can get it setup for you and then they could send it to your hotel if you won’t see them in person.

Thanks for the great info- i have only just begun to look at India today and this is probably all the info i need! Only been on the computer for an hour! I do have one question though.. where the hell do you start? I have in mind going by myself, or maybe with a friend if i can persuade them.. but India is so big, that i have no idea where to begin.

Id be looking to go for around 3 weeks, and travel to 3/4 different hotels. Any tips?

It totally depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, spirituality or healthcare it would take you do different parts of India. So I recommend thinking of what you want to get out of the trip and then going from there.

With that said I highly recommend going with a friend or joining a tour group if it’s your first trip. You can check Intrepid Tours to see the different options they have.

Another tip I have is to not try do too much in one trip. I rarely spend less than 3 or 4 days in any one location. That way I can really enjoy the place without getting too overwhelmed or tired from traveling between locations.

Lastly, since the pollution can be horrendous in the big cities, I try to avoid them and instead go to smaller places that aren’t as bad.

Hi Asher, I’m on my way to India and l was wondering what the update on SIM cards are for Oct 2019. When l get off the plane, l hope to find a sim vendor. Do you know a good one? Thank you muchly for your great post. Being a little older and going by myself (two days before l join the tour group), l had much anxiety until l fell onto your blog, and l read EVERYTHING! I no longer have nightmares. 😉 Kindest regards, Lorelie

Just wanted to say thank you for the tips. We are heading to tour the golden triangle in a few weeks time and I’ve just bought most of the items you recommend to pack.

Really comprehensive tips for any traveler. I’ve made use of some of them in my travels too. Thanks!

Hi Asher, Thanks for all your helpful points, I am traveling alone as a woman and would like to know the following : what clothes should I take with me as the weather in March looks really hot, can I take a suitcase with food that I am happy to eat including bottles of water, you mentioned that its important to wear a wedding ring if you dont is it a big issues, which tour company do you suggest as I found a company who offers solo trips with a dedicated driver for the week. Modesty seems to be important so you suggest a shawl do I travel with that all the time ? lastly where do you suggest we keep phones , passport etc while going on the tours.

Thanks for you amazing guidance Karen

Your blog is very helpful for all traveler. I search on google for travelling tips and i got the your blog. I read it and i am happy with your tips because your tips are very useful. Thanks for sharing the great information. Good Luck!

Excellently written tips, in a world where information needs to punchy or it’s skipped I found myself read the entirety of it. 🙂

Me and my partner wish to travel to Goa but also visit some poorer places away from the beaten track and buy children shoes and food etc, we wanted to do something selfless for her 30th instead of self indulgence. You say don’t give children money is this culturally not acceptable or does trouble come this in terms of countless children lining up?. It is something we plan to do so we would like to know how to hit the ground running.

Nicely compiled list. Traveling to india can be challenging but ultimately hugely rewarding. Travel to india should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So many different cultures, festivals, languages, food. Such diversity is hard to find anywhere else in the world. A place to use your five senses to the fullest 😉

The post is worth for the people who plan to visit India for the first time. All the point discussed above in the post are somewhere true and useful to have a memorable visit to India. But apart from these points I want to introduce one more point if you consider: The Online Coupons in India for Booking flight & Hotels, online shopping, wallets promo codes, and even more. Today people, in India use online coupons for saving more money on shopping and using web services. Their are some genuine coupon sites like SavioPlus, Coupon Raja, etc. which are useful for saving extra money.

I will travel to India on 11th August, the destinations will be Bangalore, Mumbai, New Delhi and Agra, I will stay in 5 stars hotels during my journey since I will travel alone! Your blog has been really helpful, thanks for sharing!!

I am travelling to India in December. I will be doing a 20-day group tour of Northern India, using mostly buses and overnight trains. I am finding it hard to decide on what bag is should take on the trip for my luggage. I am stuck between a backpack (one I’ve taken on many hiking trails) and a heavy-duty duffel bag with a long strap to put over my shoulder.

If you have any suggestions, that would be greatly appreciated.

A great collection of tips to take care while traveling to India. Currently, living in UK and planning to visit in January 2019. I’ll more happy if you share what special precautions should I take during my visit?

India is the perfect example of colorful world. You will find both good and bad here. The thumb rule is to be aware of the country vibes. Your post says it all.

come to pakistan once 🙂

Great content. Here all information’s are very useful to everyone. Thanks for all these information.

good help to others get this link through http://www.indigo-air.net get good servce and hoapitality

I really like your post, it has some interesting and useful points. Are you currently dealing with a malicious program called 9oogle?

Thank you so much for sharing a great information. I appreciate your time and effort in your work. Keep posting…

India is nice country to visit. We are heartly welcomes all foreigners to visit out country..

Collection of good information and tips for foreign tourist in India. This information will be very helpful for them to travel healthy and safe in India. For tourist places in India with detail information, recommendations and tips of that tourist place you can also visit on the website https://www.touristbug.in/.

Thanks for your blog….very informative and spot on with your advice. Probably the best thing my wife and I took to India though is something that seldom gets mentioned, and that’s a surge protector.

My wife needs to plug in a cpap machine at night. Our surge protector not only keeps this costly machine safe from India’s wonky power, but provides a 5′ cord which is handy in foreign hotel rooms. Even handier though is that it also gives us numerous USB ports to charge our devices overnight as well as a second Nth American outlet.

The model we chose fits in a little bag about 8″ x 5″ x 2″ and, being virtually a plastic box with a cord attached, weighs less than 1/2 a pound. With one of these along, you can even get away traveling with less wall adaptors.

Thanks again for your informative blogs.

I really appreciate your hard work. The blog is highly informative & I will certainly share this link to to those travelers who are planning to visit India.

Great, piece of Knowledge. Really interesting about India.

Amazing information! When I visit India, I will keep these tips in my mind.

Great advice! Sounds very scary but I’m sure if you stay near touristy spots you’ll encounter less of this.

Grt job!I find your article very informative and interesting.keep posting.

There are many tips to follow for foreigners travelling to india. Do not get fooled by local people

Great and informative article. Contact India Trotter if anyone wants a luxury and safe trip to India.

The details you have described in this blog is so useful for the traveler who wants to explore India in a unique way. I think this blog covered satisfy the necessities of each traveler, whether they want to explore India cultural or natural beauty. Thanks for sharing

Hello, I like a blog is the best trip to travel India Famous culture Temples is nice. Thank you for share us

Let me share this article on my personal facebook, because I found the sharing information quite detailed and useful. In the near future, I have a similar travel plan, so I will consult to go for easy and most convenient.

Wow, what an exhaustive list. Loved how you categorized the sections making it easier for readers to go through the list.

Well! huge informative post! Interesting to read this blog

Packers and Movers Ahmedabad | Movers and Packers Service Provider in India DSR Logistics is India’s Fastest Growing Best Packers and movers Company, Household Shifting,Packing and Moving Services and Commercial Transportation Services in India, Mumbai, Jaipur, Surat, Rajkot, Noida, Hyderabad, Pune.

Great Book. What facilities are there to do laundry. Do the hotels provide such service?

Other Bacillus Probiotics like SC208, SL307, SC109 are well known for its clinical efficacy in several human conditions.

More Details: https://www.synergialifesciences.com/other-bacillus-probiotics.html

Mbbs in Russia | Study Mbbs in Russia | Mbbs Admission in Russia Process and Fee Structure 2019 MBBS IN Russia – Study MBBS in Russia in Lowest fee structure, admission process for MBBS in Russia in 2019, MBBS in Russia for Indian students, best English Medium MBBS universities in Russia with hostel & canteen.

I like your tips, all tips are good. I love to read it. it is good for all the persons who are not from India.

MBBS in Ukraine – Study MBBS in Ukraine at lowest fee, Best MBBS university in Ukraine, Admission process and fee structure 2019 for Indian students, Study MBBS in Ukraine Eligibility. MBBS in Ukraine, mbbs in ukraine, Study MBBS in Ukraine, Study MBBS in Ukraine in 2019, MBBS admission Abroad in Ukraine consultants in India, Best MBBS university in Ukraine, Medical Colleges in Ukraine fees structure, Medical education in Ukraine for Indians, MCI recognised Medical Universities in Ukraine, Eligibility to study MBBS in Ukraine in 2019

I think your exploration is waste and you didn’t have wide experience. If every things are polluted in India in the sense how we peoples are living here.

such a nice and inspirational knowledge for foreign tourist and this blog is very helpful for tourist, i refer your blog to our friends and family members..

Lviv National Medical University – Mbbs Admission in Ukraine, Fee Structure 2019 Lviv National Medical University (LNMU) is one in all the oldest and largest medical academic establishments in Ukrayina. Study in Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Mbbs Admission & Fee Structure 2019. Lviv National Medical University, Lviv National Medical University Ranking & Review, Study in Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Mbbs Admission, Fee Structure

Awesome Info to share keep doing this kind of things

Now a days dental tourism is the most popular things to visit India.

I really like your post, it has some interesting and useful points for tourist. Contact PACIFIC TOUR INDIA if anyone wants a luxury and safe trip to India.

Awesome Article. Contact Pacific Tour India for luxury and safe tours

Great tips Asher, very detailed pieces of information. Impressed to see that you have even covered the smallest points of concerns. If you are planning your next visit to India, you can contact us at https://www.shivoydmc.com/. We are a destination management company based in Bangalore.

Thank you, your advice is very good, it really helped me a lot, good luck on your next trips!

Nice blog. I really like it. Thanks for sharing this blog with us.

Great information – glad I discovered your stuff. Ordered some things on your Amazon links. Question – Are you allowed to take ANY rupees into the country? I am able to get them in Texas but have heard everything from “it’s forbidden to bring any amount in and you could be arrested if you do” to “You can bring in under 25,000 Rs if you don’t want to declare it, but if you bring more you have to declare it.” I called three different Indian consulates and got three completely different answers. What’s your experience? I’m not looking to bring in heaps of money, just trying to avoid waiting in line at a currency counter at the airport just so I can buy a bottled water and catch a cab. Also worried about going to ATMs (what if they eat my card – it’s happened!).

I read that Lyric is paleo. I have to eat paleo for my autoimmune conditions or I am miserable! How can I do this in India? I am planning on bringing jerky and some snacks but I am traveling with my husband on university business and I know there will be some times when I would like to join in on the meals. Thank you! Nancy

It is very nice blog. About us : Char Dham Package, Chardham Package is top 4 Dham travel agency in Haridwar which deal with best price and good quality providing to their customers

good information site and nice posts on this page

Best Travel Bags is a Brand for women which is specialized in providing varied bags,simple but utility, classical but fashionable bags. Providing material, elaborate craftsmanship and multi purpose design is the most pursuit of Mammon. Every bags, clutches you will receive has been through hundreds of procedures to ensure its excellent.If you are a bags, wallet, bags, Best Travel Bags will definitely be your first choice. More info click link https://besttravelbag.com/best-travel-bags-for-women/

I have been to India many many times and I still got a few tips from your amazing post. You guys really know how to write an insightful post. It was very inspiring. I think my favourite point was Coca-Cola can be a godsend and I would agree with this point wholeheartedly. I look forward to reading more of your posts and thankyou.

Really your post is very useful for who wants travel to India. Few information I got after reading this post. Keep posting such great informative blogs.

Comments are closed.

How to Plan Your Dream Trip to India + Planning Checklist

Planning a trip to India is not a small task (but yes it’s worth it!). In a world of turn-up-and-go travel, India is one of the outliers, where “just go” is a little more difficult to do. In this guide to how to plan a trip to India, I’ll walk you step by step through India trip planning – whether it’s your first time to India or you’re heading back for more.

This post may contain compensated affiliate links. More info in our  disclosure   here.

How to Plan a Trip To India – Your Complete Guide

Planning a trip to India is where the magic begins – and it’s just as well, as in our experience of both living in India and travelling around India, at least some level of India trip planning before you set off is needed – much more so than for other Asian countries.

Why the need to plan a trip to India in advance?

India has unique ways of doing things, and if you’re a foreigner planning your first time in India, then it can be frustrating (at best) trying to navigate Indian bureaucracy and systems (or lack thereof) while your allotted trip time steadily trickles away.

The question of how to travel around India is not straightforward – it is a sub-continent, after all.

It’s also important to prepare your trip to India in advance for other reasons. You’ll want to learn about Indian culture so that you can get more out of your trip to India, perhaps learn some Hindi , find out which India itinerary is best for you, work out which places to visit (that can be huge distances apart).

There are also many opportunities to support sustainable tourism in India on your trip too, which a little planning will make it much easier to do.

I also recommend reading up on safe travel in India (especially for women) and which scams to look out for. Unfortunately, un-prepared first time travellers to India make easy targets for scamsters on arrival in Delhi and other cities – but a little preparation can save you from a lot of hassle and being yet another scam victim.

Not least, by spending time to plan your trip to India ahead of time, you’ll get far more out of the experience. Whether this is your first time to India and you’re planning a 2 weeks in India itinerary, or you’ll be spending months in India, planning will help you relax and enjoy all of the magic that India has in store for you.

In this travel to India blog I’ll walk you through the most important things to know when you start to plan a trip in India, as well as how to prepare for the best India experience. Let’s get started!

Current Status of Travel to India (2022)

The information below is provided with the intention of helping readers plan future trips to India but is subject to change without notice. Please cross-check with official sources such as your government’s travel advisory. (Last updated October 2022).

In March 2020 as a response to the declaration of the Covid-19 pandemic by the WHO, the Indian Government rolled out an India travel ban which stopped travel to India for touristic purposes and saw all tourist visas suspended (as well as many travellers stranded in India).

As of 2021, India re-opened its borders for tourism, and in 2022 international travel to India has pretty much returned to normal. There are very few covid measures in place now in India – with the exception of wearing masks on flights, and in general travel has returned to how it was pre-pandemic.

Tourism visas for India are now being re-issued – see my guide to India e-visas here – and borders are fully open.

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR BRITS & CANADIANS – Please note that if you’re travelling to India on a British or Canadian passport , you are NOT currently able to get an E-Visa, and you need to allow a LOT of extra time to apply for a regular paper/sticker visa and attend an in-person appointment at your nearest Indian High Commission / VFS processing centre.

At the time of writing, India requires either proof of full Covid 19 vaccination (2 shots) and/or a PCR test taken within the last 72 hours for entry to India. You will need to upload relevant proof via the Air Suvidha portal – more information here . The requirements vary per country, so please check information for your specific situation carefully.

During the Covid-19 Pandemic and lockdowns, unimaginable numbers of people working in and relying on tourism to earn a living struggled to make ends meet. Throughout this India travel blog on Soul Travel India my focus is on promoting organisations that have a positive impact on communities in India, and we recommend that travellers to India support sustainable and local tourism initiatives wherever they can.

When to Visit India

One of the first steps to plan India trip is to decide when is best to visit India for you. There are 3 main seasons – although like everything, as our global climate changes, these seasons are becoming blurred and sometimes temperamental. So, pack a sweater and waterproof just in case!

• High Season – Winter – October to February. India’s winter falls between October/November and February and this is the most popular time to visit India. Expect warm – cool days (except for in the far north and mountains of India where it is positively wintery and/or inaccessible). Popular festival Divali occurs (Oct/Nov). Book ahead as this is peak season, especially over Christmas, New Year and Divali. Best time to go if you want good weather.
• Off Season – Summer – Late March to June. Most of India becomes unbearably hot and dry, starting from mid/end of March depending on the year. Many come for Holi (Feb/March) which marks the beginning of Spring. But between the end of March and June it’s really too hot for sightseeing unless you’re heading to the hill stations and mountains of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. Avoid from late march on unless you’re heading to the hills.
• Shoulder Season – Monsoon – July to September. Much of India gets periodic deluges for monsoon which starts in late June and ends in September or October depending on the year and where you are in India. This can be a great time to explore parts of India with fewer crowds – not all regions of India get lots of rain (Rajasthan and the north get relatively little), but travelling during monsoon requires patience and can go wrong. Best time to go if you want to avoid crowds and don’t mind getting wet and/or delayed. Ideal time for trekking in Ladakh.

Some of the best times to go are shoulders of seasons – I personally love October and late February / early March as they see fewer visitors and often good weather in between seasons. Plus if you want to see places with differing climates, one of these periods is likely to be the best time to travel.

Where to Visit in India

There are many different India itineraries – whether you’re looking for a 2 week India itinerary, 3 week India itinerary or backpacking India route. Where’s best for you will depend on your interests, budget, travel style and more. We don’t believe in sending everyone on the same old regular cookie-cutter travel itinerary India has because there’s so much more to India than that!

Some tips when planning your own India travel itinerary:

• Everyone tends to head to north India for their first trip to India (Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra, etc) but there’s more to India than this. The south of India is actually much easier going and has better food (we’re biased on that!)and a better place to start, especially for solo female travellers to India.
• Travel distances in India can be long. Don’t try to fit too much in.
• Allow a day on arrival to rest and adjust – it’s easier to deal with the culture shock after a few hours of sleep.
• If you don’t want to plan everything in advance, my advice is to at least book your first night in a new place , especially for female travellers . You don’t want to arrive in a new place looking lost and scrambling to find somewhere to stay as this is where it’s easy to fall for scams.

Not sure where to visit in India? Take our free quiz here to find out which itinerary for India is right for you!

Popular India Itinerary Options

Especially if it’s your first time India, people often wonder which of the many India itineraries is right for them. Whatever you choose, know this: It’s just not possible to see ‘India’ in one visit. What you will get, though, if you plan right, is the perfect taste of India that’ll leave you wanting more on your next visit.

India Golden Triangle

The most popular and our least favourite of all typical India itineraries is the Golden Triangle route of Delhi – Agra – Jaipur. So named because of the geographic position of these 3 cities to each other, and for the fact that they are home to some of India’s greatest treasures: The Taj Mahal (Agra), Delhi’s treasure trove of history and culture, and the UNESCO listed “pink city” of Jaipur.

While these are absolutely places that anyone visiting India should include on their itinerary, the reason this is one of our least favourite itineraries is because it’s also where you’ll find most of India’s scamsters that pray on tourists, as well as most of the bus-loads of tourists.

The location of the Golden Triangle is also in some of India’s most polluted, heavily populated and industrial areas which means that the culture shock is dialled up a notch – not necessarily the best welcome to India.

So, how to ‘do’ the Golden Triangle right?

We understand that most people planning their first trip to India want to see the Golden Triangle, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. Here’s what we suggest:

• Don’t just see the Golden Triangle. Make time to stop in other places, such as smaller towns, stay at a homestay or go to one or two less touristy places.
• Don’t go to the Golden Triangle first . Start in another part of India (we highly recommend south India), or fly in to Mumbai (much easier going) and work your way north. Finish up at the Golden Triangle once you’ve found your India legs.
• If you’re short on time, take a tour (or plan it yourself) that shows you the Golden Triangle plus other places.

This one is one of my favourite Golden Triangle tours .

Pin to share on Pinterest!

Other North India Itineraries

There are plenty of alternative options for exploring north India beyond the Golden Triangle. Here are a few suggestions:

• Rajasthan Itinerary – Easy to combine with the Golden Triangle, it’s possible to spend over a month exploring the cities, deserts and village camps in Rajasthan, India’s most kingly state, staying in palaces fit for a king or humble backpacker guesthouses with views of forts to boot. Make sure you check distances when planning travel as distances as big!
• Delhi to Kolkata – Follow the plains of India along the Ganges travelling from Delhi to Agra, historic Lucknow, magical Varanasi before arriving in India’s 3rd biggest but oh-so-charming and surprisingly tourist-free city of Kolkata – gateway to the bay of Bengal and where India’s literati hang out, with some of the country’s best food, too. (Aside – if you are a solo female traveller on your first visit to India, you may find it better to buddy-up if you want to do this itinerary, as Uttar Pradesh, the state that it mostly runs through, is not known for its liberal attitudes towards women and can be tough going).
• Tiger Parks & Magic of Central India – If you feel called by India’s incredible biodiversity and wildlife then you won’t want to miss the tiger reserves and national parks of central India spanning Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Break up the game drives by visiting beautiful Orchha and to gape at the “Karma Sutra” temples in Khajuraho.
• The Mighty Mountains of North India – If spiritual India is calling, (or you love beautiful mountain views and trekking) consider heading north from Delhi to Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. The further north you go, the more remote it gets and the more stunning the views. Explore the historic hill stations of Shimla and Dharamshala or stay a while in Rishikesh before heading to Gangotri in search of the source of the Ganges. Plan plenty of time in the mountains, as the roads are as windy as routes are indirect. NB The mountains get snow-laden in winter, so Feb – May is best for this region, or May-Sept for Ladakh.

South India Itineraries

South India offers some of the best trips to India and is well worth considering for your India travel route. In fact, in our view, south India is a far more leisurely entry point into India than the north. The lush south offers amazing foods, verdant green fields and rice paddies, beautiful beaches and stunning temples. Did we mention the food?

Culturally, architecturally and even when it comes to weather, the south is very different to the north of India. If you want a more laid back trip, south is definitely best. Here are some of our favourites:

• Mumbai to Goa – Say hi Bollywood in Mumbai before heading down the beautiful Maharashtrian coast towards India’s smallest state, Goa. Delight yourself with caves and hill stations along the way or pay a visit to the bustling student city of Pune before winding up on Goa’s beaches.
• Bangalore to Goa – Explore beautiful and off-beat Karnataka, one of India’s most lush states taking in coastal towns such as Udupi and Gokarna, clamber over rocks at the ruined temples of Hampi and gaze in awe at Mysore Palace.
• Kerala & Tamil Nadu – The southern tip of India, these states are a world away from the north of India. Watch life on the Kerala backwaters pass you by, soak up the French vibes of Pondicherry, or take a mountain railway up to one of the hill stations for a cup of freshly-picked tea.

India Planning Timeline

There are lots of moving parts to any India trip – and even if you’re someone who likes to plan as little as possible, there are a few things you’re going to have to plan up front for your India trip, especially if you want a low-stress experience.

Here are some of the key things to plan ahead:

6 Months Before Your Trip to India

• Research seasons, when to go to India and itinerary ideas
• Join my India travel planning facebook group here !
• Check weather for the time of year of your trip for where you want to visit in India
• Start researching flights, make sure you’re subscribed to your favourite airlines for sales
• Book your tour if you want to take a multi-day group tour or guided trip

3 Months Before Your Trip to India

• Plan out your rough itinerary day-by-day
• Apply for your visa if you’re not eligible for an e-visa (currently includes British & Canadian nationals)
• Book arrival accommodation & first night(s) in new places
• Book tiger safaris / national park safaris (these get booked up)
• Book your main train journeys (these also get very booked up)
• Book domestic flights

1 Month Before Your Trip to India

• Book your airport pickup via your hotel / use Sakha Cabs (highly recommended for female travellers or if you’re arriving in Delhi at night)
• Apply for your E-Visa (28 days prior)
• Get vaccinations / prescription medicines needed for travel to India (check your government’s travel health website).

These timings are just guidance and you can switch them around to suit your own planning preferences, however note that some things, such as railway tickets, are not open for booking more than 120 days out.

If you only book one thing for India (apart from your flights and visas!) make it your arrival accommodation and pre-arranged airport pickup . It just helps so much to have a smooth landing.

Money & Cost of Travelling to India

Budgeting for your trip to india.

One of the key aspects of how to plan a trip to India is budgeting. One thing to note when planning a trip to India for beginners is that there’s unfortunately a lot of old and outdated information out there about how much it costs to travel to India.

Unfortunately, the days of travelling India on $10 or $20 a day are gone, even for a hardcore backpacking through India trip.

Another important thing to note is that the costs of travel in India vary widely depending on where you are travelling. Hotel prices have steadily crept up in Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Bangalore over the last few years – meaning finding a room on a budget can be a tall order. Overall, across India inflation is a real problem and prices are changing rapidly. So check when budgeting for the real time rates of accommodations in different locations around India.

A more realistic estimate for travelling India on a budget is a minimum of 3,000 Rupees ($41 USD) for a solo traveller, or 4,000 INR per couple per day, towards the bottom end of the comfort range. This is broken down as (per day):

• Basic private room in a guest house / homestay / cheap hotel: 1500 Rupees (note for cities like Mumbai and Delhi you may need to pay upwards of 2000 or be prepared to share a dorm)
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: 1000 Rupees per day (the cost of food varies hugely in India. Get simple street-side thalis for 60 rupees to meals upwards of 500 rupees in restaurants)
• Public Transport and Admission to sites, anything else: 500 Rupees per day.

As you can see, this is basic travel, and you won’t have much to play with on that budget.

Prices vary as well for “mid-range” travel as there are no consistent standards. Broadly speaking, for a comfortable trip around India, we suggest budgeting between 6,000 ($82) – 8,000 ($110) Rupees per day for a solo traveller or up to 10,000 ($137) per day for a couple. This is broken down as (per day):

• Mid Range Accommodation 3,000+ Rupees
• Meals in restaurants 2000+ Rupees
• Day Tour 1000+ Rupees
• Admission to sites & short hop taxis/public transport 1000+ Rupees

Just as it’s easy to travel relatively cheaply in India, there is also a great range of luxury options, especially in Kerala and Rajasthan which are home to some amazing luxury resorts and hotels to stay at. The sky is really the limit with these options and costs vary widely.

Here are some sample costs (you’ll notice some high ticket items are quoted in USD in India, usually because they are marketed at foreign tourists – you’ll do better if you negotiate in local currency).

• 1 night Stay at Taj Hotel Lake Palace, Udaipur: $700++
• 1 night Stay in a 5* hotel: 15,000 INR ($205)
• Air Balloon Ride in Jaipur: $200++
• Private driver for a week around Rajasthan in a Toyota Innova: 35,000 INR ($478)
• Meal in a high-end restaurant with drinks for two: 5,000 INR ($68)

Whatever level of budget you are travelling to India on, make sure you have access to a contingency budget or credit card if you need it.

Money Matters for your Trip to India

Although things are changing, India is predominantly a cash economy, and cash-less payment systems such as PayTM are unavailable to foreign visitors without an Indian bank account. It’s important to have some cash on you at all times.

Typically payments at higher end hotels, restaurants and shops can be made with foreign credit cards, but budget and lower-end places will want cash. American Express and Diners cards are not widely accepted.

Here are some of the money essentials to know for travel in India:

• If you can get Rupees, take a modest amount out and try to get small denomination notes (100s, 50’s, 500’s) – see why below.
• If you can’t get Rupees, don’t worry. You can get them in India on arrival at the airport.
• The only places you’re likely to find international Credit or Debit cards accepted are at large upscale hotels (5*) or upscale restaurants, or large travel agents. Everyone else will want cash, from rickshaw drivers to hotels to shops.
• The best way to get cash is to either use your Debit card at ATM’s (we have good experiences at State Bank (SBI) Atm’s or Axis Bank ATM’s. If you’re worried about if your card will work, try to find a cash withdrawal machine inside a bank.
• ATM’s in small towns can run out of cash. Don’t get stuck. Stock up before leaving a large city and keep your cash in different places to be on the safe side.
• Try to get change at large restaurants/hotels/shops as small shops and rickshaw drivers will often claim “sorry no change” (even when they do have it. 100, 50, 20 and 10 rupee notes are useful so always try to hold on to a few. Everyone will claim they have no change, but stand your ground at larger places and say you don’t have change. Don’t try to pay a rickshaw driver with a 2000 Rupee note. It’s asking for trouble and may cause an awkward situation.
• If you’re not sure if your ATM/Debit card will work in India, you could look at getting a Transferwise pre-paid card . It’ll also help reduce your transaction fees and exchange fees while travelling in India.
• You can charge Uber rides to your credit card if using the Uber app but watch the exchange fees from your credit card company – it’s generally better to pay cash.
• ALWAYS CHECK YOUR CHANGE. Unfortunately a common arrival in Delhi scam is to try and short-change tourists. Our readers have even caught the Airtel booth inside Delhi airport at it. Count your change in front of the vendor and don’t leave until you are happy.
• Fake currency is a problem with higher bills. Tripsavvy has a good article on how to spot it here .

Getting Around in India

Think of a mode of transport and India has it. Planes, trains, automobiles and, er.. camels. As a rule of thumb, the more you pay, the quicker you’ll get to where you want to be, but equally, the more you pay the less interesting your journey will be ;-).

The least interesting way of travelling India. There are several companies running domestic flights around India and a record number of Indians are taking to the skies. Useful for long distances such as Delhi – Kochi. Airlines include Indigo (recommended), the luxury carrier Vistara (recommended) Spice Jet (not great) and Air India (least recommended). My recommendations are based on reputation for punctuality and general reliability.

• Make sure you have the credit card you booked your flight with to check in. Some airlines may refuse you boarding without it.
• Baggage allowances are generally less than international flight – around 15kg. Check carefully before packing!
• In winter flights can get delayed by fog and in monsoon by heavy rains. Factor in extra time.

Now we’re talking :-). You can’t come to India and not experience an Indian train ride. Even if it’s just one. Many of the stories of Indian train journeys (including my own) come from long train journeys, with many new friends made. You can also take a day train if you’re not sure if you’re up for a sleeper , the Gaatiman Express from Delhi to Agra is super efficient and comfortable in Chair Car Class. Also worth a mention is the Mumbai to Goa Jan Shatabdi Express which arrives in Madgaon in time for a mid-afternoon fish curry.

• Indian Railways has up to 9 classes of travel. Nine . Read my g uide to train travel to work out what’s best for you. Generally we recommend AC2, AC3 and Chair Car on daytime trains.
• Train travel in India has it’s challenges – the main one being booking tickets. Read our guide above, or to do it the easy way, use site 12go.asia to book your tickets easily from abroad.
• You need to book train travel in advance. Trains sell out. With 25 million people travelling by train per day in India you can imagine why.

Buses come in a range of shapes and sizes with Volvo buses being the top quality and recommended for when you are travelling between cities. There are plenty of night buses in India and I recommend taking the train over these as the train is much more comfortable (you can get up and walk, use the toilet etc). However, they’re a useful option when trains are full or there’s no railway to where you want to be.

• AC vs Non-AC – usually there will be a choice between AC and non-ac busses – Non AC are suitable for short distances only in winter, and are usually older buses. AC recommended.
• Redbus.in is the best app for checking buses and booking if you want to book buses in advance – but there’s less need to book buses in advance like there is with trains.

Taxis & Rickshaws

A range of vehicles fall under this category! There are regular Taxis in major cities although these have fallen in popularity as ride hailing apps Uber and OLA (the Indian version, who are great).

UBER & OLA – Just open up your app, order and get in. OLA has the added bonus of being able to hail a rickshaw. There is also Uber intercity which you can use for longer transfers. If Uber drivers try to negotiate on price / message you and ask you where you are going, choose another one instead.

Taxis – ‘Regular’ taxis are available in most cities, and you can find ‘pre-paid’ taxis which are a little costlier but have the advantage of being pre-paid at the booth so avoid you being overcharged. Usually found at train stations or airports. Don’t give the paper slip to the driver until he drops you at your destination.

(Auto) Rickshaws & Cycle Rickshaws – Almost omnipresent is the tuktuk (so named after the tuk-king sound of it’s compressed natural gas engine), also known as an Auto or Auto rickshaw. These are great for getting around cities but you’ll usually have to negotiate before getting in. Unfortunately many rickshaw drivers refuse to use the meter for tourists and will add on extra. In a few places you can still find cycle rickshaws which are considerably harder work for their pullers so please be kind to them and don’t sit in one with your luggage. Also negotiate.

Private Car & Driver

If all of the above sounds like far too much like hard work, you can hire a car and driver for parts of your trip. This is handy if you’re exploring one state, say Rajasthan. Or you can just hire one for a day. As a starting point, ask your hotels for driver recommendations.

Now you know what to think about when planning your trip to India, it’s time to make your itinerary and decide how you want to experience India!

Need an extra helping hand? Jump into our free India Travel Community on Facebook and ask away!

Are you planning a trip to India for 2022 or beyond?

More Resources for Planning your Trip to India:

• What to pack for India – read our India packing guide here
• The best India group tours – comparison of some of the top tours and tips
• Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in India – read all my tips here

Save this for later on Pinterest!

Soul Travel India

Passionate about all things India travel - journeys of transformation and discovery, local experiences, and getting under the skin of India.

Copyright Soul Travel India 2022, All rights reserved. This website uses compensated affiliate links. 

How to Get an Indian Visa

India's Visa Types, Explained

Applying for an E-Visa

India's Climate & Seasons

Monsoon in India

Your Essential Packing List

Things to Buy Before You Go

What to Pack for Monsoon

The Best India Guidebooks

How to Save on Your India Trip

The Top Destinations in India

The Most Iconic Sights in India

Which Region Is Right for You?

India's Top Historical Destinations

Romantic Indian Destinations

India's Top Hill Stations

India's Top National Parks

The Best Beaches in India

India's Best Backpacker Spots

India's Most Spiritual Destinations

The Best Luxury Spas in India

India Off the Beaten Path

India for Adventure Travelers

Where to Experience Rural India

The Top Things to Do in India

Palaces & Forts in India

India's Best Surfing Beaches

Volunteer on a Budget in India

7 Cool Sound & Light Shows

India's Most Popular Festivals

India's Best Bike Tours

See India by Motorcycle

India's Top Tribal Tours

Offbeat Tours to Take in India

India's Best Homestays

Palace Hotels in India

India's Coolest Treehouse Hotels

Top Wildlife & Jungle Lodges

The Best Hostels in India

Best Budget Hotels in India

Transport in India: An Overview

India's Major Airports

India's Best Airlines

Domestic Airlines in India

Hiring a Car & Driver in India

Your Intro to Indian Railways

Travel Classes on Indian Trains

How to Reserve a Train Ticket

How to Find & Board Your Train

Tips for Train Travel in India

India's Scenic Toy Trains

12 Indian Etiquette Don'ts

The Top 10 Indian Stereotypes

Tipping in India

What Does the Head Shake Mean?

9 Challenges You'll Face in India

How to Avoid Culture Shock

Top 5 Monsoon Health Concerns

Voltage Information for India

How to Use Your Cell Phone

How to Say Hello in Hindi

Often Misunderstood Hindi Terms

Hindi Language Books

Most Common Indian Scams

How to Handle Begging in India

How to Spot Fake Indian Currency

What to Buy in India

How to Buy a Sari in India

How to Bargain at Indian Markets

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

There's no country quite like India. And, no country evokes such an extreme range of emotions as India. Love it one moment, hate the next—one thing is undeniable, India is unforgettable! This deeply diverse and fascinating country is colorful, bold, raw, and often noisy. There's a story around every corner, an incredible sense of possibility and aliveness, and never a dull moment. India offers something for everyone, whether you're interested in historical monuments , culture, food, mountains , beaches , wellness , or adventure . Just go with an open mind. Our comprehensive India guide will help you plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The main tourist season extends from October until March—this is when the weather is coolest. However, you'll prefer warmer temperatures if you're going far north to destinations such as Ladakh , Spiti , and Kashmir . April to September is the tourist season there. Avoid visiting India during the monsoon season unless you like rain or want to get an Ayurvedic treatment . Read more about India's climate .
• Language: 22 major Indian languages are formally recognized   . Of these, Hindi is most widely-spoken, particularly in North India. The Indian government uses both Hindi and English for official purposes   . English is also prevalent in cities and tourist areas.
• Currency: Indian rupee (INR). Currently, 1 USD = 74 INR.
• Getting Around: Most tourists hire a car and driver to travel from place to place in India. Self-drive rentals are relatively uncommon due to the poor condition of roads and the frequent disregard for road rules in India. App-based cab services such as Uber operate in cities. Domestic flights are plentiful and convenient, and the network has been expanded to cover many regional destinations. Indian Railways is an inexpensive option for long-distance travel. Buses go all over India and are cheap but lacking in comfort.
• Travel Tips: If you're a female who's traveling solo in India for the first time, you'll encounter fewer hassles in south India than in the north. Tamil Nadu is an excellent place to start your trip. Indian Railways has special foreign tourist quotas on popular trains, which you'll find useful if the trains are otherwise fully booked.

Things to Do

India's forts and palaces are a big draw. The well-trodden "Golden Triangle" tourist circuit (incorporating Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal , and Jaipur ) attracts most first-time tourists to India, commonly with Varanasi thrown in. Those without time constraints typically head to other top destinations in Rajasthan , and the Golden Temple in Amritsar . Further south, Kerala and Goa are popular states. Nature-lovers shouldn't pass up seeing India's national parks and the opportunity to spot some of the country's famous wildlife . If you'd like to get off the beaten track , consider exploring rural India .

• Take a walking tour to really immerse yourself in a destination.
• Spend a day or two relaxing on a houseboat along the Kerala backwaters.
• Go on a camel safari in the desert (there are non-touristy options!).
• Admire South Indian temple architecture .

Our detailed guide to India's attractions , guide to tourist sites by region in India , and list of 20 diverse things to do in India have more trip ideas.

What to Eat and Drink

What you may know of Indian food from restaurants outside India is actually a tiny snapshot of the country's cuisine, and mostly that of the north. There's so much more to Indian food than butter chicken and chicken tikka masala! In fact, every state in India has its own distinctive type of cuisine. This traveler's guide to Indian food by region has more information. India is also renowned for its street food (there are dedicated food tours in many cities), thalis (platters that come with an assortment of dishes), and sweet desserts . Gastronomes will be interested in the contemporary modern Indian cuisine at fine dining restaurants in cities such as Mumbai and Delhi.

Visitors are often surprised to discover that wine is produced in India. The main winery region is Nashik in Maharashtra (about three hours from Mumbai). There are some decent vineyards not far from Bangalore in Karnataka too. What's more, India has a growing craft beer scene! If classy cocktail bars are more your thing, you'll find them in cosmopolitan Mumbai and Delhi . Those who like to try different alcohol types should keep an eye out for locally produced drinks, including feni (cashew fruit liquor) in Goa and toddy (palm wine) in south India. India's tribes also make their own potent indigenous brews such as rice beer and mahua (from fermented mahua flowers). In terms of non-alcoholic drinks— lassi (yogurt shake), masala chai (milky spiced tea), and refreshing nimbu pani (lemon water) are quintessentially Indian.

Read more about India's historic restaurants , the top restaurants in Delhi , and Mumbai's best brewpubs. And, of course, try eating the local way —with your hand—the food tastes much better, honestly!

Where to Stay

India has accommodations to suit all travel styles, from budget to ultra-luxurious. If you're new to India, homestays are recommended as you'll be able to benefit from the host's local knowledge, eat home-cooked food, and get personalized service. In other words, you'll be well looked after and have a soft landing! Nowadays, there are world-class backpacker hostels all over India too, which makes it easier for travelers to meet other people. In Rajasthan, authentic palace hotels are a highlight. Alternatively, the growing number of restored boutique heritage hotels provide a more affordable option for atmospheric accommodations. It's even possible to go glamping in India !

Check out our pick of the top wildlife and jungle lodges in India , best beach huts in Goa , and secluded Himalayan getaways .

Getting There

All visitors need a visa for India, except citizens of neighboring Nepal and Bhutan  . Most people are eligible to get an electronic E-Visa for tourism, business, and medical purposes.

India's two main airports are in Delhi and Mumbai. Tourists usually fly into Delhi airport if they're traveling around north India . The airport is large, modern, and well-connected to the city center by the Delhi Metro Airport Express train . Goa has an international airport that receives charter flights from Europe and the United Kingdom during peak season.

Find out more about the visa requirements for India and major international airports in India ,

Culture and Customs

Tourists usually experience culture shock when visiting India because the customs and lifestyle are unlike western countries. Even the ubiquitous Indian head wobble is likely to confuse! Therefore, you should learn as much as you can about India before you arrive. Start with these things not to do in India , stereotypes about India , and what to expect when you arrive in India.

Numerous issues, such as scams , do make India a challenging country to travel in at times. Be prepared to deal with beggars (ideally, don't give them money), firmly ward off touts, and agree on prices before a service is provided.

There's a perception that India is unsafe . You definitely shouldn't let your guard down, but if you practice common sense, nothing untoward should happen to you (apart from staring or sexual harassment).

Tourists need to keep in mind that India is a conservative country, and this includes dress standards. It's respectful to keep your shoulders and legs covered. There is some leeway in major cities and Goa, though. Here's a suggested packing list for India.

Bargaining, or haggling, is expected at markets in India and is quite an art form. Here's how to go about it . Tipping isn't compulsory in India. Sometimes a service charge will automatically be added to the bill. If not, a tip of 10-15 percent is adequate if you wish. Do flag down the waiter to get the bill when you're ready.

Money Saving Tips

• Don't accept the first price quoted. Prices are often negotiable, and vendors routinely charge foreigners more than Indians.
• Travel during the summer and monsoon low season, from March to September, to save on accommodations.
• It can be possible to get great deals on hotels by walking in and negotiating the rate. However, it's best to book your accommodations in advance for places you're not familiar with to avoid being preyed upon by touts.
• Stay in cheaper accommodations to pay lower Goods and Services Tax (GST). For example, there's no GST on room rates below 1,000 rupees ($15) per night, but it jumps to 12 percent on room rates above 1,000 rupees per night, and further increases to 18 percent on room rates above 7,500 rupees ($100) per night.  
• Avoid fancy restaurants and restaurants in hotels, and eat simple Indian meals like the locals. A thali costs only a few dollars and is really filling for lunch.
• Sikh gurdwaras (places of worship) provide free langar (food) for everyone, and it's super tasty.
• Temples, festivals, art galleries, and parks such as Lodhi Garden in Delhi are free to enjoy.

Discover more ways to save money on your India trip and the top free things to do in India .

Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Official Language.

Government of India, Know India.

Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, General Policy Guidelines Relating to Indian Visa , 2018.

Government of India, Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, GST Update , October 2019, page 16.

15 Easy Ways to Save Money on Your India Trip

Trips to Delhi: A Complete Guide

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

16 Best Tourist Destinations in India

Guide to the Best Budget Hotels in India

Your Trip to Udaipur: The Complete Guide

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

India Travel: Issues to Know at Top Tourist Places

Your Trip to Kolkata: The Complete Guide

What is a Homestay in India and Why Stay at One?

Bangalore Guide: Planning Your Trip

6 Romantic Hotels and Honeymoon Places in India

13 Exceptional Homestays in India

Palolem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

One Week in Delhi: The Perfect Itinerary

The 14 Best Beaches in India

15 Vital India Travel Tips for First Time Visitors

If you’re headed to India for the first time you might be wondering what to expect from the world’s most populous country. So here we will go through 11 vital India travel tips for first-time visitors to prepare you for the culture shock and ensure that you have an awesome trip! 

India is a beautiful and fascinating country. There are over 100 unique languages and dozens of microcultures within its borders. You can find some of the most instantly recognizable landmarks in the world in India, as well as wild jungles, epic deserts, and some of the most beautiful alpine regions in the world. There is really something for everyone in India. 

But India can be a real culture shock if you’ve never been there before, even if you’ve been to other developing countries. While Indians are some of the most hospitable people in the world, the rampant poverty and some of the local customs can be overwhelming to westerners. This article will help you adequately prepare for your first trip to India.  

#1) Attempting to drive is not worth it – take a taxi

#2) prepare to see extreme poverty, #3) expect to see a lot of garbage due to lack of waste management, #4) be aware that animals are always on the road, #5) be careful with street food (if you don’t want to get sick), #6) someone will want a photo with you, #7) they don’t really use toilet paper, #8) prepare for bone in your curry, #9) prices are negotiable, #10) travel documentation is needed to enter an airport, #11) be prepared to go through security everywhere , #12) 5-star hotels can be pretty damn cheap, #13) english is prevalent , #14) follow basic safety precautions , #15) don’t forget your tourist visa, india travel tips – faqs.

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which means that should you purchase something or get a quote through them I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep the site running with up to date information. I do not represent World Nomads, Booking.com, or GetYourGuide. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy the product mentioned in this article.

While I’ve never lived in India, having married into a big Indian family has led me there dozens of times for weeks on end. And while sure, I’ve done Delhi and Mumbai and the Taj Mahal and all that, I’ve spent most of my time in lesser-known places that tourists hardly set foot in. Places where you can go days without seeing another white person.

My relationship with India gives me a lens that not many people get to see through. These India travel tips are meant for westerners who will be visiting India for the first time, but can also be useful to non-western folks who are not from south Asia.  

What this post is not is a full guide to India or any location within the country. If you’re wondering where I recommend going in India, on top of the standard Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), I love Goa and Amritsar . There are so many fascinating places in India, though, so it’s hard to choose a favorite!  

Lastly, before you head to India, I recommend purchasing travel insurance so that you’re protected for the unexpected. We use World Nomads and had a good experience the one time we unfortunately had to actually use it. World Nomads provides coverage to travelers in over 100 countries. You can search for a coverage plan using the link below.

Alright, let’s get to it now. Here are my top travel tips for first time visitors to India!

It’s highly advised not to attempt driving in India. Even if you are from Southeast Asia or Africa I still don’t recommend it. Indian roads are a whole different ball game.  

All the rules of the road you know don’t apply to Indian roads. Organized chaos is the best way to describe it. The first time you see a busy Indian intersection will blow your mind. But somehow everything works out and everyone eventually gets through. 

If you try to drive like in a western country you will never get anywhere. And I mean that literally. You will not be able to move your car forward following western rules of driving. You have to be aggressive in India. So for your own safety, it’s advised not to drive.

Instead, take tuktuks, taxis, Uber, or Ola . They are remarkably cheap and plentiful. Just be prepared to sit in the cab for a while, as getting from Point A to Point B in an Indian city can take an eternity.

Let’s start with the poverty you will see when you travel around India. While I could write the same thing to prepare a European for their first trip to the USA, poverty in India is on a different scale. 

Hundreds of millions of people live in extreme poverty and income inequality is widespread. While the haves live like kings, the have-nots live in slums, many without running water and access to basic supplies. 

The conditions of many people living on the street can be difficult to stomach the first time you see it. If you’ve never been to a developing nation before, it will be a shock. 

If you are Caucasian, you will likely be approached by beggars on the street as they’ll assume you are rich. It’s okay to give them a few rupees. One image that always sticks with me is a young mother with two small children picking up 10 rupee bills (about $0.15 USD) as they fell to the ground during the blessings of my brother-in-law’s wedding. 

During this ceremony people “make it rain” over the bride and groom with small bank notes. The woman scampering through the dancing wedding party to pick up the bills broke my heart. 

I have never been inside one of the slum neighborhoods but they are everywhere in large cities and small villages alike. While slum tours of Mumbai are now a real thing, I don’t recommend this. In my opinion the poor living conditions of less fortunate people should not be for your entertainment. 

But should you wish to visit, there are many tours that will take you and you show around the slums. The tours are usually a half-day and are less than $20 USD.

A result of the rampant poverty we just discussed, proper disposal of waste and recycling is nonexistent in the poorer neighborhoods. You will see garbage and plastic bottles littered on the side of the road. Even in the wealthier neighborhoods this can still happen. 

You will also often see burning piles of garbage as you walk the streets of Indian cities. With nowhere to dump the garbage, the piles are often set on fire to burn away. The garbage on the side of the road can be very upsetting, especially to anyone who considers themselves an environmentalist. 

In wealthier neighborhoods this is not really an issue. And garbage won’t be on fire outside your 5-star hotel. But it won’t take a long walk from that hotel to end up on a poor street without waste management. 

You probably know this by now, but cows are sacred in India. They also roam the cities freely, like stray dogs. However, unlike stray dogs, they like to chill on the road. Like, literally in the middle of the road.

It’s a pretty common sight in Indian cities to be heading down a road and have to move over to the shoulder to pass a sitting cow or a group of cows. The cows don’t care about you. You just have to avoid them. Luckily you won’t be driving (more on that later), but good to be prepared for anyways.

You will often see water buffalo in the road as well. Pigs and camels on the road are a less frequent site but can be seen sometimes. Drivers are used to it though, so it’s not really a cause for concern. And if you’re in Jaipur, you might encounter a few elephants walking down the road. No big deal.

India has no doubt some of the best street food in the world . It’s literally everywhere and it’s usually delicious. But the thing is that street food is often made by people who don’t have access to clean water, so when you try it you’re taking a chance with catching something that will leave your stomach feeling like it’s tearing itself apart. The infamous Delhi Belly.

Now am I saying that if you eat some street food you’re definitely going to get sick? Absolutely not. Chances are you’ll be fine. But it’s a risk you will have to analyze for yourself and decide whether or not it’s worth it for you to try street food.

The street food in India is dirt cheap, and if you’re traveling on a budget it is by far the cheapest way to feed yourself. But if you’re not on a super strict budget I’d advise against street food, as I don’t feel it’s worth the risk. It’s up to you in the end, and if you do choose to eat street food be sure to use these tips for avoiding getting sick . 

Being asked to pose for a photo with a random stranger might seem odd, but it happens all the time in India for Caucasians. If you are a tall white person, you will get even more requests. I can’t be sure if the same will happen for people of other races and ethnicities, but white people be prepared. 

This won’t happen in places like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur or Agra where tourists are a regular sight, but if you’re anywhere else be prepared to be approached. While you might find it annoying, just be courteous and if you prefer not to pose for a photo with this random stranger politely tell them you’d rather not. 

The only explanation for this my wife has is that some people just want to show their friends that they hang out with white people. If you find yourself in a small town or village outside of a city, it’s very likely that you will be the first white person that some of the children have ever seen.

If you’re staying at a personal residence in India you might notice there is no toilet paper in the bathroom. You might think they’re out, but actually that’s how it’s supposed to be. There is a bucket and a hose instead. I’ll let you use your imagination there. 

Don’t worry though, every hotel and most bathrooms in restaurants or office buildings or other public places will have toilet paper available along with the hose. If you’re going for a wedding (as many westerners do for their first India trip) and staying at someone’s house, just be sure to request they have toilet paper on hand if you’re not comfortable using the hose and bucket technique.

If you’re a fan of Indian food at Indian restaurants in western countries, you might get a shock when your butter chicken comes with bones all in the chicken. This is how curries with meat are made in India. The chicken or goat (mutton) is chopped up without removing bones and cooked in the curry. 

They say keeping the meat on the bones makes it more flavorful. If you’re not used to it though, it can be quite a challenge to eat an Indian curry avoiding the bones. You’ll have to get a bit messy, as it’s nearly impossible to eat with a fork or spoon. The locals make eating with your hands look like a piece of cake. It gets me every time though. 

Most decent restaurants will offer a boneless chicken option that will cost extra. However, If you’re going to a wedding or some other event, you’re just gonna have to deal with the bones in your curry or stick to vegetarian options.  

Speaking of vegetarian options, India is heaven for vegetarians. Many Indians are vegetarians, and most curry options are vegetarian. If you’ve never thought about ordering vegetarian food, India is the perfect place to try.

As with many Asian and African countries, price tags are not to be taken literally. Excluding things like hotels, menu prices at restaurants, and public transport fare, just about everything is negotiable in India. Haggling is common and literally everyone does it.  

Some of the more common things to haggle on are items at any shop, taxi fare, tour prices, and any service provided by a company or individual. You might choose not to haggle though, especially if you’re well-off financially, knowing just how little the sellers and providers make.

One unique thing about India is when you’re going to the airport for your flight, you need to show your flight confirmation to an Army guy with an M-16 just to get into the airport. So be sure to have either a printed flight confirmation or be able to show it on your phone. A screenshot is acceptable as you probably won’t have mobile data or wifi. 

Without your flight confirmation you can’t enter the airport (so no seeing off your family and friends, you’ll have to waive goodbye to them from outside). I’ve seen something similar in Nairobi , but every airport in India requires flight confirmation for entrance.

As a result of the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack , security was ramped up throughout the country. Places where large crowds can gather will have metal detectors. It’s like if you’ve ever gone into a federal building in Washington DC where you have to go through the metal detectors, but for places you’d never expect to go through security in your home country. 

Some examples of places you’ll have to go through metal detectors are: hotels, malls, subway stations, and movie theaters.  

If you’ve never stayed in a fancy hotel before, India is the perfect place to pop your cherry. Really nice hotels in India can be surprisingly affordable, especially in the smaller cities. 

If you’re in Delhi or Mumbai, you can reasonably expect to pay $200-$300 USD for a brand like JW Marriott , Four Seasons , or the Taj Mahal . Other not as top-of-the-line 5-star hotels will usually be under $200. 

By the time you get to places like Lucknow and Amritsar and other smaller cities, you can start to find 5-star hotel prices in the $100-200 range. Even in tourist-heavy places like Agra and Jaipur you still have many 5-star options under $200 per night, like the Jaipur Marriott Hotel or the Grand Mercure Agra .  

It’s also important to note here that hotel brands that you might not associate with “5-star” are actually 5-star in India. The best example of this is the Courtyard by Marriott. While in the US, Courtyard is usually a side-of-the-interstate hotel, in India it’s a super nice 5 star property. My brother-in-law got married at the Courtyard by Marriott in Bhopal. It was really fancy! 

Some other examples of this would be Hyatt Place, Radisson, and Holiday Inn, all of which offer numerous 5-star options throughout India. Sure beats a run down Motel 6 in New Jersey that starts at $199/night! 

One of the nice things for westerners about traveling around India is that English is prevalent among the Indian population. As a former British colony, English was mandated and it’s still taught in schools. If you want a Bollywood movie, you’ll often hear random sentences in English here and there. 

Now, not everyone in India speaks English, of course. The less educated a person is, the less likely they are to speak English. But pretty much anyone with a university degree will speak English fluently. Plus anyone who works in hospitality and most signs are in Hindi and English.

You can get by visiting India without speaking a word of Hindi, so long as you speak English. 

While India is overall a pretty safe country, it does have its share of violent crime. Murder and assault are not common, but it does happen. Solo female travelers should avoid walking alone at night on streets that are not busy and lighted.

If you follow basic safety precautions that you would follow in any major city around the world, you should be fine. There is far less violent crime than the United States.  

My wife has in fact been robbed at a park in Raipur after dark and her Samsung phone was stolen. The lesson there was don’t walk around unlit places at night. As a westerner, you stand out more, so it’s even more important to follow the basic precautions. 

India has visa-free travel for only three countries. So unless you’re from Nepal, Bhutan, or the Maldives, you need a tourist visa. Japanese and South Korean citizens can get a visa on arrival, but everyone else will have to apply ahead of time. 

Most people will be able to apply for their tourist visa online, as India allows e-visas for 166 countries; just not China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and countries it doesn’t have diplomatic relations with like Algeria, Chad, and some other African nations. 

The process for applying for a tourist visa is constantly changing so consult the Indian e-Visa website for the latest information. You’ll need some unusual information like father’s place of birth, but most of it is pretty standard. Just be sure to follow their guidelines for the uploaded photo to the t, as you’ll be rejected if you don’t. 

You can apply for a 30-day visa, a 1-year visa, or a 5-year visa. The price varies depending on the length, of course, and your nationality. Most visitors opt for the 30-day visa, which currently – as of the end of 2023 – runs $25 for a US citizen. It used to be over $100, so it’s been greatly reduced in recent years.  

Is tipping expected in India?

Moderate tipping is common in India, but not necessarily expected. Most food transactions are done with cash, and it’s customary to leave 10% if you received good service. This is often done in the form of leaving a 100 rupee bill on the table when you leave. 

Do I need malaria tablets for India?

Malaria is prevalent in India in most cities and other areas under about 2000m (6560 ft) elevation. There is no mandate to take malaria tablets, but if you’re worried about catching the virus then it doesn’t hurt to get a prescription for them before your trip. I don’t personally take them for India unless I’m going outside the major cities, but for your first trip it might be a good idea.  

What vaccinations do I need for India?

No vaccinations are required to enter India, but it’s good to be up to date on your TDAP, typhoid, yellow fever, Hepatitis A & B, and polio before your trip. Consult the CDC website for the latest information.

What are the safety tips for traveling in India?

While India has its share of issues with violent crime, it’s a safe country overall and assaults are not common. Follow basic precautions such as not walking alone at night unless the area is busy and well lit and you will likely be fine.  

Is India friendly to tourists?

Indians are very friendly to tourists. They are very welcoming and hospitable. Service at Indian hotels and upscale restaurants is second to none. If you want to feel like royalty, a visit to India will do the trick!

Now that we’ve gone through the top 15 India travel tips for first time visitors you should be prepared for your trip. India is a beautiful country and the people are truly warm and welcoming. As long as you are prepared for some of the main cultural differences you will face you will have a great time!

Chris Heckmann

The most epic australian road trip itinerary, the inca trail trek to machu picchu – how to plan and book, you may also like, 27 pros and cons of living in washington..., is english spoken in the netherlands why the..., 25 useful amsterdam travel tips for first time..., the only irish guinness stew recipe you need, dutch food culture and eating in the netherlands, an authentic hungarian goulash recipe, your complete guide to visiting the golden temple..., how the dutch got their amazing surnames, 7 big reasons why goa should be your....

[…] The Mosque. Photo courtesy of Around the World with Me. […]

[…] be approached by endless people begging you to buy something or give them money. If it’s your first time visiting India, this can be pretty overwhelming. Do your best to ignore and do not speak back to them. Sadly, this […]

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Work With Me
• Netherlands
• Turks and Caicos
• United States
• New Zealand
• Netherlands Travel
• Custom Travel Planning
• Top 10 Lists
• Dutch Culture
• Indian Culture

Travel Genes

Endless Discoveries

India Travel Guide – 25 Smart Things to Know Before Going to India

Chaotic, Inspiring, Intoxicating, Crazy, Wonderful, Incredible, Beautiful, Overwhelming, and Fantastic. India is all these things, and more. I always say – India changes you for better or worse ! India is everything and more all at once. It’s an explosion that involves all five senses be it the bright colorful clothes, the cows which are more important than you on the roads, the marigold flowers or the many smells of Indian cuisine.

India Travel Guide

How to travel india safely, smartly – india travel tips for beginners.

India For First Timers – What To Expect When Travelling to India – Scams to Avoid – Where to Eat & Drink – Where to Go – How to Blend & Things to know before Going to India

How can you possibly prepare yourself for the ultimate travel adventure that is India? Start with our India Travel Guide below for how to travel India safely, smarty first time!

1. Length of India Travel

So how long should be your first trip to India? If you ask me – a lifetime, only if you got one to spare. Is if not; at least two weeks or a month would be ideal to make the most of the best places you visit.

What I always suggest to guests of my boutique Homestay – The Hideout Agra is to spend at least two nights to the each place you plan to visit because the longer you stay in the city, the more you are able to be comfortable with the locals and they are the ones who can give you the hot insider tips which you will not be able to find in any guide books written on the internet or purchase through the bookstore. This India travel guide is a small attempt to cover the most important aspects of your India travel.

The ugly truth is that the full India cannot be experienced in just two weeks or two months or possibly with two years. First time as I suggest is to stick to the North – the land of the deserts, palaces and mountains where you can have your first Indian experience which can be both challenging and pleasing.

Have a look on:  14 Best reasons Why You should visit India Now

Also check out: 14 Best Seller Books That will Inspire The Trip to India

4 Weeks in India : Recap of Personalized India luxury Tour

2. How to Stay Safe during India Travel

The most important advice I give is don’t even think of drinking tap water even if it is filtered because you just don’t want to test your stomach abilities. Avoid eating ice, drinking fresh fruit juices right from the street and salads. Street food is ok only if it is prepared hot and right in front of you. We have a saying in India which we normally advise to my guest – If you can boil it, peel it or cook it then you can eat it, else forget it! However, don’t be too strict about brushing your teeth with normal tap water. There’s absolutely no harm in it.

Also find out: The Secret to Solo Female Travel in India

3. Get Health Insurance

It doesn’t matter whether you are fit and healthy you should not travel to India without a comprehensive health insurance and make sure your vaccinations are all up-to-date and you are having a basic medical kit which includes probiotics plus some general antibiotics prescribed by your GP, some mild pain killers and hand sanitizers.

4. The Language

India is a land of more than 22 local languages but most of the people speak English at many places because it’s one of the language which is taught in schools in India so you won’t have many issues if you are having some basic English speaking skills. However you can learn a little local lingo in Hindi which will help you surely in your travels.

5. Best Time to Visit India

India is seasonal in part because of the monsoons and the heat storms which are not always easy to travel. The months specially around April to August are incredibly hot or wet depending on which part of India you are visiting and are best to be avoided. The Northern India including Delhi, Agra and Jaipur can get very cold in the winter so you need to bring warm clothing like jackets, boots and gloves if you are coming in December and January. The mountains close up in the peak of winter because the roads are impossible to drive on. Travelling to Himalayas in November to February is best avoided.

Check out my other post – Best Places to Visit in India by Month

6. What to Pack for India

For India, like anywhere else I always say – “ Less is more! “. However here is my take on what all you should bring for India:  Ultimate India Packing List of 100 Travel Essentials for Every Activity in India

7. How to Stay Safe on Roads in India

You can travel India alone and be safe although it is not always a cakewalk. It can be really tough and a huge part of travelling in India is actually being mentally prepared. So you need to open your mind to accept that things are going to go wrong sometimes and taxis or someone might scam you any day.

Another most important thing is be kind but not over friendly with the people you meet in your daily life while you are travelling in India. You might find it strange that in the culture it is not common for women to smile and chat with stranger but if you are too nice it will put off the wrong Idea as if you are trying to give signals for a possible tinder date in the evening to the opposite sex.

Also read: Practical Tips on Solo Female Travel in India

8. Travel Arrangements

Try to get hotel pickup and drop setup from your hotel or Homestay that you are staying from train stations or bus stops. Mostly hotels will give it for free or for a very fair cost. There is a high chance that you will get ripped off if you try to book a cab yourself to the hotel or while going to the train station. Best option nowadays is to use Uber or Ola (which is equivalent to the uber in India) and they are available in most of the cities at most of the times.

If you tell the driver your hotel name and they say it’s not there anymore, burndown or fully booked up there are actually trying to scam you to go to another hotel of their choice. They do so because they get commissions from other hotel and that is the biggest reason to lie to you.

Most important tip – don’t ever let the driver bring a friend or a relative while travelling with you.

Also Read: How to Beat Jet Lag while coming to India

9. How to Budget for India

Although, India is cheap but it is not free for everything. You could choose to spend 1000 rupees a day for everything or you could spend 10,000 rupees a day. So you need to really think about your budget planning for your trip to India.

Avoid going to cities in the peak season like landing up in December in January and Goa can actually burn to big hole in your pocket because prices are sooo high and it’s not really the enjoyable time you get with so many people in such a small area.

10. What to Eat in India

The number one thing travelers coming to India want to taste out are Indian curries but it’s very difficult to make out the differences between the red and the green and the many color of curries which are available. Truth is curries are gravy like dishes made in hundreds of varieties depending upon region.

Second choice is Palak Paneer which is actually the spinach and cottage cheese – not like the cottage cheese you have in America like the cubes of the cheese but it’s very tasty and its veggies favorite but be careful from where you eat it because during the rainy season this spinach is not always properly cleaned and it can give you Delhi belly or Jaipur belly etc.

I have made a comprehensive list of 52 Best Indian Dishes to try While You’re in India

On a side note it is good to let your stomach acclimatize for a few days before you launch into some spicy street food feast.

Many travelers become completely vegetarian while there in India and it’s definitely not a bad idea as a small piece of meat can do more harm than an under-cooked vegetable. Also India is mostly vegetarian so the country offers perhaps the world’s most fabulous choice of vegetarian cuisine. But you can surely find some of the best non-vegetarian cuisine here as well.

11. Where to Eat in India

While in the north part of India Butter Chicken is the favorite dish to taste and so is the Chicken Tikka. But these are actually North Indian Mughlai cuisine which are best cooked only in North India so if you are going to order it in South India or West of India you will not get the same taste for which they are famous of.

The south of India is famous for more healthy vegetarian curries with less cream and most of the food items are cooked here in coconut oil. Don’t forget to try the Masala Dosa while you are in South of India.

Seafood in India is best while on the coast weather in Goa, Kerala or on the eastern side of India in Kolkata. Don’t forget to try the fish curry rice or prawn curry rice as well as fried prawns. In Kolkata you can also try The Prawn Cocktail.

Also read: Top 10 Must Try Bengali Food while You’e in Kolkata

Don’t be afraid of eating Street foods. Egg puffs, Egg rolls, Chicken rolls and many others will make you drool. There are number of food walks in almost every city which you can join and have an ultimate taste. Check out our most popular Food Walking tour of Agra run by me: Agra Food Walk – Explore Agra by Mouth

If you’re looking for a typical American food or the Mexican food I am sorry to disappoint you as you won’t get the real. Everything is more Indianized, however if you really want something Western then you can go for a sizzler which will be meat and veggies on a hot plate.

If you want to have a bit of everything then you should go for a Thali . The plate is an assortment of curry, rice, bread, pickle, chickpea, mix vegetables, yoghurt, desert and similar stuff depending on the local region.

The most common and the most favorite drinks in India are Salt or Sweet Lime soda, Chai which is actually the milk tea and Lassi which is yougurt mixed with fruits. Lassi is the yummiest refreshing drink you can have and acts as probiotic too keeping you safe from Delhi Belly.

12. What all to See in India

I always say try not to have huge expectations on seeing and doing everything you want. Transportation between the cities and city attractions takes longer than you will guess and then you might have to cut some places of your itinerary. So try not to stress because less is more in India. Do keep in mind it is the experience that matters not just checking things off a list and the journey in India as a whole is a crazy experience.

Also Read: Top 20 Must see India Destinations That You Should See

Do Check: Dental Tourism Holidays in India – Dental Implants, Smile Makeover in Agra

13. Go Slow

Many people try to put too much in their itinerary is do in India and as a result they burnout. To get the best from your trip is to concentrate on a few places rather than trying to take off as many as possible. Trust me over this if you spend a few days in one spot you will be less stressed, you’ll get gain a deeper understanding of where you are, who do you meet and your exchanges with friendly locals will make some of the most memorable moments of your trip.

14. Stay Calm

In spite of the beauty that India offers, it is also in-famous for touts, scams, fake tour guides and many other hassles. There are some ways in which you can reduce the chances of being overcharged or ripped off but for sure you will have some encounters with scammers during your trip. So keep your head cool and remember that deals that sounds too good to be true usually are.

Specially be careful of taxi and rickshaw drivers who insist on taking you to specific hotels, shops or travel agencies as the cost of the commissions they will earn will be added to your bill.

The most important advice I give for any India first timer is to try to remain calm no matter what. It’s very easy to get frustrated but take a deep breath and move on. That is the way to enjoy your time here.

Do check out: How Not to get Scammed or Ripped-off in India

15. The Perfect Route – Where to Go in India

Before you decide on the itinerary please think about what interest you, what you like doing and how much time you have and then you can tailor your trip accordingly because India gives you a lot of options and you’ll never have the time to see it all on one trip.

Also Read: How to survive Your First Trip to India

For first timers, the best selling Indian tour is all-time classic Golden Triangle. If you are running short of time then this is a fantastic introduction to three of India’s top destinations Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

You should be starting in Delhi to see the sites such as Humayun’s tomb, Qutub minar before hitting Agra and watching the sunrise at Taj Mahal later followed by Agra fort and Fatehpur Sikri . You can explore the pink city of Jaipur and the fort at Amber before returning to Delhi to fly back home. Also, you can combine

Read my brief guide on : How to do India’s Golden Triangle 

Also read: The Complete Insiders Guide to visiting Taj Mahal with 25 Secret Tips

If you are spiritual by nature and temples fascinate you , it’s easy find them everywhere in India but especially in North and Central India there will be too much options to choose from. From Golden Temple in Amritsar to erotic temples of Khajuraho , Konark Sun Temple and milky white marble Jain temples of Rajasthan and Gujarat – you will have plenty of choices.

Temples of the South India are totally different in architecture as compared to the North but they are stunning examples Like Hampi, Madurai and cave temples of Ajanta and Ellora near Mumbai.

For beaches and waterways – you can enjoy some of the India’s finest beaches in down south. Whether it is in Mumbai or the many beaches of Goa you can take a pick from Arambol, Vagator and Palolem which are the top spots in Goa.

If you want to see what Goa was 50 years ago then you should head on to Varkala and Kovalam in Kerala which are the black sand beaches. In Kerala you can also hire houseboats in the calm backwaters.

Check my guide on 12 Best Non-Touristy Virgin Beaches in India

Wildlife Safari – Your best chance of spotting a tiger is in the many national parks of Madhya Pradesh or Rajasthan like Ranthambore but there are many national reserves all over India where you can track many exotic wildlife as Lions, wild asses, Rhinos and wild Elephants. For the bird watchers, Bharatpur Rajasthan is famous for its migratory birds.

For the real spiritual sentiments Varanasi is the best possible option with its ancient funeral ghats where Hindus perform the last rites beside the sacred river Ganges. Pushkar in Rajasthan or Golden Temple in Amritsar are also such pilgrimage towns.

For yoga and meditation classes you can find it everywhere right from the Delhi to the ashrams of Rishikesh. And for the Buddha way of life the best option is Mcleodganj in Dharamshala which is also the home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile.

For the Love Birds – do check out Top 10 Most romantic Honeymoon Destinations in India

16. Do in India as Indians do – How to Blend in India

Most of the India is still conservative when it comes to the dressing standards. Tourist spots like mosque, temple or any other holy places require you to dress modestly by covering your head with a scarf and taking off shoes before entering. The more you blend with the locals in dressing sense, the more un-wanted attention you will avoid except when you’re in cosmopolitan places like Mumbai & Goa.

17. Explore Like a Local

It’s great to do touristy things – otherwise you’d have never explored the world-class museums or owned those gorgeous souvenirs that you picked up from different places. But it’s equally important to keep a couple of days aside to roam around like a local. You’ll get a chance to blend with the locals if you walk where they actually live and eat at cafes and restaurants frequented by them.

Go Beyond Taj Mahal: 10 Things to do in Agra After Visiting Taj Mahal

18. Get a SIM card for your unlocked phone

Being able to use your phone as you travel in India will make things so much easier. The many things you can do are like looking at the directions on Google maps, read reviews or even book and Uber taxi.

19. Religious Scams to Avoid

In many of the temples and mosques you may be pressured to make a donation or to buy a sacred offering. Most travelers feel pressured into doing this as they don’t want to be disrespectful of the local religion however there is no compulsion. If it looks like the price is very high it’s probably not a real spiritual offering but just way of getting some money out of your pockets.

20. Get Medical Help

I have seen some travelers even if they are ill they ignore the problems and hope they get better with time because they are too scared to go to a local pharmacy or a local doctor. However you will discover that not only the Indian pharmacies are cheap and friendly also often, you will be able to get antibiotics or any other pills you need without prescription.

21. The Indian Head Wiggle

Many times during your trip in India you will notice that locals have a certain way of wagging their head back and forth in response to a question. This nod is not the same as a nod up and down for YES or not from side to side for NO. I know it’s a gesture that doesn’t exist in the West so it can be a little confusing. The Indian head movement can have a lot of meanings depending on the context that is used in but most of the times when the person is trying to properly understand your query the head is used to show that he is trying to understand everything you say to him.

22. The Art of Bargaining

Haggling is a natural part of shopping in India but the important thing to remember is that it is not a battle but a friendly negotiation. No matter which part of India you are the vendor will probably quote price which is quite high and he is expecting you to give a counter offer that is lower so that you can go back and forth and reach a price that suits both of you. It’s good to start your price 50% lower that what is asked and slowly go up to the point when you are comfortable.

23. The Fake Ticket Offices

In big cities like Delhi and Mumbai you will find fake train ticket officials standing outside stations and tourist information offices. They might try to scam you by selling you fake train tickets that are useless when you actually start your journey. That is why it is a good idea to have a phone with the Indian sim card so that you can look up the company online in find out whether or not they are legitimate.

24. The Indian standard time

Don’t expect things to happen on time because in India the things happen on Indian Standard Time. It’s a part of the normal daily life and we always jokingly say to our guests – “In India everybody is in hurry always but nobody is on time.”

25. Just Do It

The truth is India travel will definitely be much more challenging than travelling in other countries. At times you may find yourself overwhelmed and exhausted, so be prepared for this. However the experience of visiting India is absolutely worth it. As I always say India changes you for better or worse.

Hope this India travel guide answers most of your questions and will make your travels in India smooth.

Bon Voyage! See You in Agra, India.

How To Avoid Swine Flu While Traveling India

12 Best Virgin Beaches in India To Look Out For

Agra Travel Guide – The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Agra Travel

6 Reasons Why You Should Hit The Beach More Often

• 1 (888) 414-6804 (USA & Canada)
• +91-99274-65808
• [email protected]

India is now open for International Travelers

Guidelines for international travelers (updated feb., 2023).

• Effective February 2023, mandatory self-declaration form on Air Suvidha for international arriving passengers has been discontinued. So, no self-declaration needs to be completed by international tourists from any country arriving in India.
• RT-PCR Covid Test NOT required for traveling in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan
• To Travel to India Covid Vaccination also NOT required.
• The use of masks on flights is mandatory. Masks are not required anywhere else in India

India Travel Guide: 16 Tips When Preparing for Your First Trip to India

Before you embark on a trip through India, and to ensure you get the most out of it, it is important to do extensive and detailed planning. The following are 16 useful tips you should keep in mind when planning your first trip to India.

  India Travel Guide: 16 Tips When Preparing for Your First Trip to India

① General Safety Tips While Out Exploring ② Dealing with Strangers ③ Dealing with Beggars ④ Gay and Lesbian Rights ⑤ Public Smoking and Consumption of Liquor ⑥ Cycle Rickshaws and Tuk-Tuks ⑦ Tear Through the Confusion and Scams ⑧ Entering Places of Worship ⑨ Traditional Dining Etiquette ⑩ Tips for Photography Enthusiasts ⑪ Learn a Bit of the Local Language – Hindi ⑫ What Can You Bring Along to India (Free Allowance)? ⑬ Travel India for Reasons beyond Sightseeing ⑭ Leave Your Western Standards Behind ⑮ Vacation India Believes in Responsible Travel ⑯ Always Remain in Touch with Us

① General Safety Tips While Out Exploring

Dress to feel comfortable and to blend in. Avoid looking like a tourist. Remember, there are many expats in India, so a foreign face is nothing new. And millions of foreign tourists visit India every year. If you’re lost, approach a uniformed policeman to ask for directions; they are everywhere in urban the areas. You can also approach a passer-by and people in the shops to ask for directions. People are quite friendly in India. ✔ Avoid dimly lit and sparsely populated areas after hours. At night walk in a group or with at least one fellow traveler ✔ A small digital camera that can be slipped back safely into your pocket after use is ideal. If you have to use DSLRs, secure them in your bag safely after use, rather than letting them dangle around your neck ✔ Leave all your valuables such as extra cash, travel documents and jewelry back in the hotel’s safe deposit box ✔Pickpockets will always notice you. To stay safe wear your backpack kangaroo style in front. Have your purse hanging from your neck behind the bag with the opening facing your tummy. This will make it impossible for any pickpocket to reach your valuables ✔ Write down the name and address of the hotel in a note pad. If you find it difficult to communicate with a taxi driver, you can simply show him the address. Or just pick a visiting card from the hotel’s reception ✔ Finally, take it slow and spend time in each location. Everything in this country has a history. India is as much about its people as it is about the magnificent monuments; so communicate with people when presented with an opportunity ✔ Politeness is a western trait but it doesn’t always work the same way in India, especially with the less educated like waiters, bell boys, drivers and porters. In other words, being overly friendly with them might be perceived to be an “invitation.” Unfortunately, such men consider western women to be more “available” than Indian women, so be confident and stern in your communication (never rude).

A foreign tourist poses with two Indian women dressed in traditional Indian saris at the Taj Mahal Complex in Agra

② Dealing with Strangers

There’s nothing like striking a chord with a local and being invited to their home for lunch or tea. India is a society where several generations live under the same roof. You might find this fascinating and another aspect that’ll not escape you is the warmth displayed towards you. The majority of Indians believes in “Atithi Devobhava”, (A guest is equivalent to God).

Remember, not all invitations are the same. You are better off being invited for dinner or lunch by a well-educated couple or woman, then a man. If you manage to strike up a conversation with a fellow passenger during your flight and are then invited for dinner, grab the opportunity.

However, if you get an invite on the bus or the local train, politely refuse, unless the woman or the couple inviting you seems well educated and from the upper class of society.

Steer completely away from accepting food and drinks while traveling, especially during train travel. Such food or snacks might be laced with sedatives with the intention to rob you when you’re asleep.

A foreign woman showing a sadhu a picture on her camera. A significant percentage of foreign tourists visit the city of Varanasi to visit its characteristic ghats on the River Ganges and for its proximity to the famous Buddhist site of Sarnath. Photo by Samrat35

③ Dealing with Beggars

Beggars can make your heart melt and at the same time be quite annoying when they refuse to leave you alone. The Indian government is trying to curb begging through rehabilitation, so you’re better off not being too generous with your wallet. Don’t get involved in a conversation about an individual’s background. There are non-governmental organizations in India that are dedicated to such work. If you really feel you must do something, you may give them some sweets, chocolates or fruits. We recommend that you refrain from giving money to beggars.

A sadhu reads the newspaper on one of the ghats in Varanasi. Sadhus are wandering holy men who have renounced worldly possessions and lead a life of meditation and celibacy. A few beggars and sadhus are also waiting to receive money or food from the pilgrims visiting the holy Ganges River. Photo by Yavuz Sariyildiz’s

④ Gay and Lesbian Rights

Same-sex relationships are not widely accepted in India, although there is a changing perception in urban India. Rural India, however, still views such relationships with disdain. The government regulations too are not favorable towards same-sex relationships.

⑤ Public Smoking and Consumption of Liquor

Smoking and consuming alcohol in public places are strictly prohibited according to recent regulations and is punishable by law. Although you might find a few locals flouting this law, we urge you to adhere to it and refrain from such acts. In many 4- and 5-star hotels and in many upscale restaurants there is a designated area for smoking.

A Hindu sadhu with typical long beard and matted hair smokes his hash clay pipe. He is one of India’s many wandering holy men, attending the Kumbha Mela Festival in Prayagraj. Photo by Nila Newsom

⑥ Cycle Rickshaws and Tuk-Tuks

Your trip to India is incomplete without a photograph on a cycle rickshaw and tuk-tuk. However, keep in mind that the drivers of these vehicles might try to overcharge you. Make use of these modes of transport with the aid of your tour guide to remain safe and only use them for a special experience and for short distances. Please ask your guide or your adviser at Vacation India to arrange a cycle rickshaw or tuk -tuk ride so that you can enjoy the ride without the inconvenience of any haggling and overcharging!

A family in an auto rickshaw smiles at the camera. India is the world’s largest manufacturer of these three-wheeled motorized vehicles. Photo by Dana Ward. All Vacation India tour packages include all sightseeing and transfers. However, if you would like to venture downtown or to an old bazaar in the city afterwards, the best way is to hire a tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are small and can comfortably make their way through the narrow busy streets of Indian cities. They are silent and eco-friendly and run on gas. Average fare is approximately 20 rupees per kilometer (around 1 dollar for 3.5 kilometers), so it’s cheap. When you hire a tuk-tuk in front of your hotel or in the street and don’t know how much it will cost, just ask at the hotel reception or your guide. If you don’t like to haggle, the best way is to download the Ola app on your smartphone to book a cab or tuk-tuk. You can even book bike rides through the Ola app 🙂

Our clients from Switzerland and their driver posing happily with our company banner during their South India Tour

⑦ Tear Through the Confusion and Scams

Confusion can reign as things aren’t always organized in India. For instance, to visit the Taj Mahal one needs a ticket. One would expect the ticket counter to be close to the Taj Mahal itself. But contrary to belief, the booth is in the exact opposite direction. So, it’s quite a long walk away. At Vacation India, we take care of all your entrance fees to monuments. The service of English-speaking local guides is also included. These guides will take care of buying the monument tickets for you. You just need to keep your camera ready to capture the incredible sights of India! At many monuments our experienced guides buy monument tickets online in advance to avoid standing in long queues at ticket counters. Popular tourist attractions are also places where scammers thrive. So, be wary of anyone who is over-friendly. Shouts like “Hey friend” and “Where are you from?” are best ignored. During visits to monuments in India, you may be approached to pose with local tourists for a photograph. If you’re uncomfortable, politely yet sternly decline the request.

Trash is found all over in the cities. Vacation India completely rejects such behavior and requests travelers to not contribute to such irresponsible behavior.

Cows walking in busy roads, people sleeping on pavements and under bridges, temples and mosques that seem to be right in the middle of the road are quite common. Smile at the amazing confusion and enjoy the chaos, you are in India!

Visitors from another part of India take pictures of their female family members with a foreign tourist at the Jahangiri Palace in Fort Agra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s top tourist destinations. Until 17th century it served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Photo by Don Mammoser

⑧ Entering Places of Worship

Indians are very particular when it comes to religion. It is vital that you dress in non-revealing attire when you visit a mosque or a temple. Smoking, joking around, cuddling and speaking in a loud voice are prohibited. You will have to enter the temples bare footed. In many temples you enter wearing socks only. Your accompanying guide will advise you accordingly.

Women need to cover their heads with a shawl or scarf when entering a Hindu temple. Inside a gurudwara (Sikh temple), both men and women must cover their heads. Jains practice complete nonviolence, so when entering a Jain temple, you need to be without any leather items on you, including wallets and belts. Photography is not allowed in some Hindu temples. Please check with your guide before entering any place of worship!

Thousands of pilgrims of all religions and walks of life visit the Sri Harmandir Sahib or Golden Temple in Amritsar every year. Photo by Rafal Cichawa

Visitors at the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah on the bank of river Yamuna in Agra. The first Mughal structure built entirely of white marble, it is often referred to as the Baby Taj, Photo by Don Mamoser

⑨ Traditional Dining Etiquette

Whether you use cutlery or your hands when eating in hotel restaurants is your choice. Most Indian meals includes curry and bread, which is why most Indians use their hands when eating. For rice and other dishes people use cutlery. In South India , people also eat rice with their hands, even in 5-star hotels; it is part of their culture. However, if you’ve been invited for lunch or dinner by an Indian family you need to follow certain rules of etiquette. Wash your hands before sitting down at the dining table. Eat only with your right hand as the left is considered dirty and used only for chores such as removing your shoes, etc. Leave your shoes outside the house. It’s considered civil to bring along sweets, fruits, or flowers as a gift.

People admiring the Jal Mahal, or Water Palace in the middle of Lake Man Sagar in Jaipur, India. When the lake is full, four of its five levels are submerged. Built in red sandstone, it is a mixture of Mughal and Rajput styles. Photo by Don Mamoser

⑩ Tips for Photography Enthusiasts

Most temples and religious places prohibit photography inside, although you may photograph these buildings from the outside. If in doubt, ask before taking pictures. If you wish to take a picture with locals, they may be quite happy to pose with you but ask permission first, especially when it comes to women. Check if there is a board that says, “Photography is prohibited.” Cameras are allowed free of charge in most of the monuments in India. Although some monuments do charge a small fee to allow photography. Your accompanying guide will advise you on this matter. Tripods are not allowed in most of the monuments without prior permission.

Camel traders in traditional dress watch over their animals at the annual Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan. The festival is one of India’s largest livestock fairs with thousands of international and local visitors. Photo by Devon Stephens

Indian ladies, in traditional dress and jewelry pose happily for a picture taken by a tourist during the famous Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan – Photo by Avid Creative Inc

⑪ Learn a Bit of the Local Language – Hindi

Hundreds of languages are spoken in India but the most widely spoken language, at least in the northern and western part of India is Hindi. Other languages widely spoken are: Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Oriya, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu but these are region-specific. Here are a few words of Hindi that will help you blend in!

↳ Namaste (num-uh-stare): Hello/goodbye ↳ Shukriya (shu-kree-yar): Thank you ↳ Aap kaise hai (arp-kays-air-hay): How are you? ↳ Ji ha (gee-haar): Yes ↳ Ji nahi (gee-nay-hee): No ↳ Kahaan hai? (car-har-hair): Where is the…? ↳ Acha (uch-are): Okay, or I understand ↳ Ruko! (rroo-core): Stop ↳ Chai (cch-eye): Tea ↳ Pani (par-knee): Water ↳ Lakh (lack): One hundred thousand ↳ Crore (craw): Ten million ↳ Mai (may): Me ↳ Mera (may-ra): Mine ↳ Aapka (aap car): Yours ↳ Kaun (car-aun): Who ↳ Kapra (cap-ra): Cloth ↳ Khana (kha-na): Food  

Phrases that You Might Find Useful

↳ Aap kaise hai: How are you? ↳ Mai thik hu: I am fine ↳ Aap se milkar khusi hui: Nice to meet you ↳ Aap kaun hai: Who are you? ↳ Aap ka naam kya hai: What’s your name? ↳ Mera naam hai ___: My name is ___ ↳ Aap kaha se hai: Where are you from? ↳ Mai ____ se hu: I’m from ____ ↳ Station kaha hai: Where’s the station? ↳ Bus stand kaha hai: Where is the bus stand? ↳ Toilet kaha hai: Where is the toilet? ↳ Kya aap meri madad kar sakte hai: Can you help me? ↳ Ye kya hai: What’s this? ↳ Mujhe ye kharidna hai: I want to buy this ↳ Ye kitnay ka hai: How much is this? ↳ Daam kum karo: Lower the price

Signs in Hindi and English guide passengers at the Shimla railway station in northern India. India’s railway system has been in operation since 1853. Photo by PjhPix

⑫ What Can You Bring Along to India (Free Allowance)?

A tourist who comes to the country for the sole purpose of recreation, sports, touring, health, pilgrimages of a religious nature, business, study, and family visits is allowed the following:

↳ Up to 100 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 125g tobacco ↳ Up to 2 liters of liquor or wine ↳ Personal jewelry ↳ One camera and up to 20 rolls of film ↳ One video camera with accessories; no more than 12 cassettes ↳ A pair of binoculars ↳ Camping equipment, including one tent ↳ Professional equipment  

Bringing Currency

You can bring any amount of any currency into India; however, you’ll have to declare it if you are bringing more than US$ 5,000. If the total value of bank notes, travelers’ checks, etc., comes to more than 10,000 USD, you’ll have to declare it.

A Hindu saint teaching western tourists a yoga pose and meditation on the bank of the River Ganges in the holy city of Varanasi

⑬ Travel India for Reasons Other Than Only Sightseeing

This is perhaps the most valuable tip that we can give you. India is a land of immense diversity when it comes to culture, rituals, religion, clothing and landscape. Here you can experience the friendliness and genuine hospitality of the locals and, of course, the vibrant traditional markets. The cuisine promises to be like nothing you’ve ever experienced in the world. From street food to the Taj Mahal , there is history etched into everything you see and experience in India.

Observe the many different religious festivities that are deeply embedded in the history and culture of the country. Holi (Color Festival) and Diwali (Light Festival) are especially breathtaking. The Ganesh and Durga festivals will open your mind to the enthusiasm and inner joy de vivre of the people, palpable in every corner of the country.

The people of India are easy to talk to. They are not really concerned with privacy, so you must be prepared to be asked some personal questions.

It’s an adventure that goes beyond physical challenges. You’ll love the cultural shock that awaits you and marvel at the ancient architecture and technical skills of the masons that each ancient monument exhibits. The sweet aroma of spices, and tea & coffee will fill your senses at every turn. Experience the country firsthand to understand why it’s called “Incredible India”.

Be confident that if you face any problems, you can contact your personal travel expert and let him/her know. We will be more than happy to help you as far as possible.

Pilgrims from other parts of India in colorful traditional sarees posing with a tourist in the temple of Sri Ranganathaswamy in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, South India. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the biggest temple complexes in the world

⑭ Leave Your Western Standards Behind

You are probably used to a particular way of living that includes maintaining high standards of hygiene, privacy, timeliness, and service. However, India is different, even chaotic regarding all of these. You might find the prying eyes of the locals quite daunting and the public transport that’s never on time irritating. Hotels in remote areas that have only one dish on the menu available and the general standard of cleanliness may be quite a shock. Prepare yourself beforehand and be aware of the fact that you not home, but in India, and you’ll be much more relaxed and comfortable exploring the country, ignoring her faults and rather focus on her magic and enchanting nature.

A group of tourists take pictures from a boat on the Ganges River in Varanasi from where they have the best views of the city

⑮ Vacation India Believes in Responsible Travel

At the core of our operations is the resolve to bring you the best of what India has to offer while keeping you safe at all times. Another cause that is close to our heart at Vacation India is the impact of tourism on nature. We believe in grass-roots travel as that’s where the real India dwells. To achieve this, we network with local communities, individuals and businesses so that local economies gain through tourism. This brings a positive, welcoming attitude towards tourists and minimizes any adverse cultural impact. Nature is another aspect we are sensible and concerned about. We urge you to bring rechargeable batteries and plug adapters. Minimize the use of plastic and make use of biodegradable detergents and soaps as far as possible.

A woman sits among large baskets filled with flower strings which she sells at the KR Market in the heart of Bangalore . Photo by Markus Gebauer

⑯ Always Remain in Touch with Us

You can always reach our 24/7 emergency line at +91 99274 65808. You can also email us at any time. So, keep your smartphone charged. If you find that you are “out of range,” try an internet café. Alternatively, you can buy a prepaid phone connection for your travels in India and a cheap handset for about $20. The call charges in India are among the lowest in the world.If you have any more question about India and it’s culture, you can email us at [email protected]

India Travel Guide and Tips

TRAVEL GUIDE TO INDIA’S WILDLIFE IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND TIPS

India Travel Tips to Keep You Safe and Your Exploration of India a Joyful Experience

Guide And Tips to Shopping in India

Share this post, you may also like.

Related Tours

© ALL CONTENT COPYRIGHT UNDER DIGITAL MILLENNIUM COPYRIGHT ACT (DMCA)

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - PHOTOGRAPHS AND WRITTEN CONTENT CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT OUR PERMISSION.

Cookie Settings

India travel tips for first-time visitors

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• india-ten-tips-for-first-time-travellers

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 06.11.2020

There's no denying that travelling to India can be a major culture shock, especially on your first visit. It's a huge and bewildering country, with many different cultures and customs. The cities roar with traffic and bustle with activity non-stop. So how to prepare for this assault on the senses? Here are our essential India travel tips for newbies to help you get to grips with this fascinating country. For more tips, itinerary suggestions and more, take a look at the new edition of the Rough Guide to India .

1. Avoid burnout

2. get out of the city, 3. watch what you eat and drink.

• 4. Don't be too precious about your personal space

5. Dress appropriately

6. watch your feet and hands, 7. remember that indian time is relative, 8. stay safe, 9. be prepared for noise, 10. avoid deals that seem too good to be true, tailor-made travel itineraries for india, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Tailor-made trips for   India

By far the most common complaint reported by first-time visitors to India is fatigue - simply trying to do too much in too little time. India is vast, colourful and addictive, but have realistic expectations about how much you can see. An extensive trip to one particular area can deliver far more than a whistlestop tour of the whole country. And remember, India isn't going anywhere – you can return time and time again.

A perfect way to relax in India is by visiting one of India's beautiful beaches .

Houseboat on Kerala backwaters, India © Monisha Malli Sridharan/Shutterstock

Though perhaps a cliché, the only way to get a true sense of India is to visit smaller villages . The real benefit is that it'll get you out of the sprawling and vastly overpopulated cities. Once you've cleared your head, say with a trip to the mountains or into the slower-moving land of Kerala in the south, you'll be far better placed to enjoy the famous hospitality of the Indian urbanites.

While planning your first trip to India - check our list of the best things to do in this destination.

Perhaps the most important India travel tip for first-timers! A dodgy stomach is pretty common on your first trip to India. There are ways to avoid though. Stay on bottled water and avoid salads or ice – these are often the cause of stomach upsets. You don't have to rule out street food completely, but try to stick to peeled fresh fruit and foods that have been either boiled or fried.

4. Don't be too precious about your personal space

Personal space isn't really a popular concept in India. You will be squished on public transport and squashed in lifts. People will ask seemingly intrusive personal questions that you may find intimidating. Remember that this is a wholly different culture and the questions are merely indicative of the locals' polite interest in you.

Traditional sari costume © Szefei/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Be aware that India has a relatively modest culture. Covering arms and legs is a simple step toward respecting this. Indians are forgiving of those who aren't familiar with their customs, but you can quickly make a good impression by, for instance, removing your shoes before entering someone's home. This is particularly important when entering a sacred space, like a temple. At temples, you should also keep shoulders covered and make sure dresses and shorts reach your knees. Also, if you see shoes outside a shop, it's a sign to remove your own.

The Rough Guides to India and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Feet are considered to be unclean in India, so if you touch something with your feet it's appropriate to swiftly apologize. Similarly, eating or passing objects with your left hand is considered unpleasant (Indians use their left hand for wiping after using the toilet). If unsure of local customs, keep an eye out for what others do and imitate.

You may well find yourself waiting half an hour in India when you expected to wait five minutes. Traffic and other interruptions can mean that getting around can take a lot longer than expected. One of our most indispensable India travel tips? Build in plenty of room for unexpected waits. Also, try and run any errands or shopping trips in the morning – many government offices and shops close in the afternoon for lunch.

While "don't go down dark streets alone" might seem a bit obvious, there are plenty of straightforward ways to avoid subtle dangers in India. Of course, carrying huge quantities of cash isn't a good idea anywhere. In crowded Indian cities, pickpocketing is a very present problem. Equally, haggling at a market can, at times, become an unpleasant, heated exchange. If you do find yourself in an exchange that's heating up, try to stay calm. Be pleasant but firm, and don't allow yourself to be irritated.

On the river Ganges in Varanasi © D'July/Shutterstock

Cars, motorbikes, throngs of people, street hawkers and more – Indian cities are noisy. One way of ensuring you can have a bit of personal space, albeit in your head, is to have earphones with you to shut out some of the surrounding din. The sheer clamour of an Indian city can be overwhelming at times.

Government-run shops are the easiest way to avoid running foul of scams, but simple rules can help you elsewhere. Consider paying for things with cash to avoid card cloning scams. This may save you a lot of unnecessary trouble later in your journey. You should also pay particular attention if you're arranging to have things sent home by post. Unfortunately, it's not unknown for shops to take your payment and send worthless items instead.

Read all of our India travel tips and ready to book a trip? Get in touch! We work with local experts in the country who can plan and book a fully customised itinerary .

Top image: Panorama of Agra city, India with Taj Mahal in the background © pzAxe/Shutterstock

• Authentic Experiences
• Travel Tips

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for India

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to India

• Mumbai, India
• Culture and Etiquette in India
• How to get a visa to India
• Eating and drinking in India
• How to get to India
• Getting around India: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health India
• Maharashtra, India
• Shopping tips for India
• Travel Tips India for planning and on the go
• Sports and Outdoor activities in India
• Best time to visit India

Find even more inspiration for 66 here

Ready to travel and discover india, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Itineraries
• Travel advice

Global Gallivanting

My complete step by step guide to planning a trip to india.

My Guide to Planning a Trip to India

Incredible India is possibly the most exciting, diverse and life changing place to travel in the world! But India is a country that challenges and frustrates a visitor almost as much as it delights, enchants and rewards which makes planning a trip to India no simple task.

For many people travelling in India is a highlight of all their travels and they return again and again but, for some, they find the culture shock of their first trip to India is quite overwhelming. Many travellers have a love/ hate relationship with India , especially the first time, it gets easier once you get used to India and know what to expect!

The right preparation can go a long way to making sure your first trip to India is memorable for all the right reasons. I’ve spent over 10 years traveling all around this fascinating country and here’s my guide to help you plan a trip to India.

If you want expert help with planning your Indian adventure then contact India Someday . They are expert India trip planners and can help with all aspects of traveling India from creating the perfect itinerary based on your specific dates, interests and needs to booking accommodation and transport and taking all the hassle out of trip planning.

India Someday are perfect if you want some assistance with planning your trip to India but don’t want to take a group tour. Check out my experience traveling with India Someday and quote GLOBALGALLIVANTING5 to get 5% off the trip planning fee.

So Here’s How To Plan A Trip to India!

Step1: start researching the best places to visit in india and make a rough travel route.

Many people prefer to stay flexible and not to over plan their itinerary for their trip to India. Most of the time I travel this way, India is not a good place to attempt a rushed itinerary and I do not like to have a fixed itinerary because you never know if you will want to change your plans, love somewhere and want to stay longer, or hate somewhere and want to leave or be inspired by other travellers to visit somewhere that you have never even heard about before.

But this is such a vast and diverse country and traveling here can be challenging so it’s a good idea to at least research when and where you want to visit and try to plan a rough route around the main attractions that you want to see to avoid wasting time.

Check out my suggestions for the perfect India Itinerary to get started and see the Top 5 places in India that you’d be crazy to miss.

Step 2: Research the best time to travel to India

India really is a huge sub continent and as such the weather changes considerably depending on where you go. Generally speaking for most areas the best time to visit India is in the winter from November to March  as cooler temperatures make traveling more pleasant.

From March things starts to get pretty hot, the heat and humidity of April and May do not make for a pleasant travel experience and the monsoon rains come from June –September.

However, if you plan to travel in the far North or Himalayan regions winter would be too cold – contrary to popular belief it is not always hot in India and it does snow! If you wanted to visit areas like Leh and Ladakh the best time to do this is in the Summer.

Check out this useful infographic by Tripzuki that easily shows where to go and when! Check out the pros and cons of visiting Goa in monsoon and where to travel in July and August to avoid the worst of the rains.

Step 3: Decide which places you want to visit in India and make an itinerary

One of the best things about traveling in India is the amazing diversity in this sub continent – from snow capped Himalayan mountains to tropical beaches, from languid backwaters to chaotic cites and desert forts.

There sure is a lot to see in India but my top tip for traveling India is to take it slow ! India is not a place to rush around and trying to see too much will end up in a stressed instead of enjoyable trip. If you have less than 1 month in India then I would concentrate on one area.

Think about what you are interested in – whether it is history, forts and palaces or nature, wildlife, temples or beaches, food or nightlife. India really does have it all but it would take a lifetime to fit it all in that’s why many people spend numerous trips for months at a time exploring India. But if you are short on time then you have to decide.

Like This? Pin Me! 

For first time visitors I usually recommend to go South first – get acclimatized to India in laid back Kerala or Goa before tackling the big sights and chaotic cities in the North.

The Golden Triangle is a popular first time route that encompasses the big sights in the capital Delhi, Agra (home to the Taj Mahal) and the pink city of Jaipur. If you have more time then exploring more of Rajasthan – India’s most flamboyant state and the fascinating holy city of Varanasi on the river Ganges are essential Indian experiences.

For more suggestions check out my Perfect First Time in India Itinerary .   and the Top 5 places in India you really can’t miss .

If you want to take a group tour then take a look at the best routes and tours of India I recommend.

Step $: Work out a budget for your trip to India

Traveling in India is so affordable and it is still one of the cheapest places to travel in the world ! You could backpack around India for very little money and most backpackers and budget travellers here can travel comfortably and easily on a budget of $20 – $30 per day . Although, as India is modernising there are now many options to travel in more comfort with world class luxury hotels and Western brands giving travellers the temptation to splurge.

See more about how much it costs to travel around India  and the average daily budget for backpacking India. 

Step 5: Get your vaccinations for traveling in India

One of the biggest worries people have when visiting India is about getting sick.  You should visit your doctor to check if you need any vaccinations and get professional health advice before traveling to India. Don’t leave this to the last minute, go about 6 – 8 weeks before traveling because some of the vaccinations require a course of treatment spanning several weeks. The NHS Fit for Travel website has good information about recommended vaccinations as well as health and safety tips for India.

Most travellers make sure all their usual jabs are up to date and get vaccinated for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus and Typhoid. Vaccines for Cholera, Diphtheria,  Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies are also recommended. If your doctor cannot provide all of these then you can visit a private specialised travel health clinic like Nomad Travel Health Clinic. 

Stock up on a DEET based insect repellent to protect against malaria and dengue fever. In most areas of India the risk of Malaria is low, apart from areas in the North East , see a map of Malaria affected areas here . Many travellers decide that the risk of Malaria is not high enough to warrant the side effects and costs of antimalarial tablets. Talk to your GP or a specialised health clinic and seek professional medical advice about what vaccinations are required and are suitable for you.

Spicy food and lapse hygiene practices do mean that unfortunately many travellers to India do experience a bit of ‘ Delhi Belly ’ but most of the time rest and ride through it and you will feel better in a few days (another reason to take it slow)

To avoid getting sick never drink tap water, always drink bottled water and avoid ice. Also be careful with salads, fruit and uncooked food and be really careful with street food too. Many travellers also stick to eating vegetarian food of which there is a huge and delicious variety here. I find it useful to drink pro biotic yoghurts to help build up the good bacteria in my immune system and also take anti diarrhoea tablets and antibiotics like ciproflaxin with you.

See more Tips to avoid getting sick in India 

Step 6: Apply for a Tourist Visa for India

All visitors require a visa to visit India, apart from citizens of Bhutan and Nepal. So applying for your visa is a super essentail step in planning to travel to India!

As of Feb 2019 citizens from 161 countries can now apply online for tourist, business and medical E-Visas valid for upto 1 year meaning it’s now easier than every before to get a visa for India! Horay! 🙂  Read this post with all the information on how to apply for an E-Visa for India.  

Why is this not one of the first things I recommend for you to prepare? Well, bear in mind that the visa is valid from the date of issue not the date of arrival in India, so you need to plan where and when you will travel in India before applying for your visa to make sure it doesn’t expire before your trip!

You can apply for an E Visa to India on the government website here , but there’s still quite a lot of paperwork and the fee is non refundable even if your visa is rejected. To save time and hassle its easier and quicker to use a company like iVisa .  

Step 7: Book your flights to India!

Once you’ve got your Indian visa you can finalise your travel plans, book your flights to India, get excited and let the countdown begin!

I always search for the best deals on Skyscanner   because you can search for the whole month and for all airports in India as being flexible will allow you to take advantage of the best deals and cheapest prices. Expedia are also good for booking cheap flights and hotels. It’s often cheaper to get an indirect flight and maybe you could even explore a new destination like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat or Istanbul on your stop over!

My preferred airlines to fly to India are Jet Airways, Qatar and British Airways as these airlines offer the best prices, service and quickest route to India from the UK. If I’m flying to Mumbai or Delhi I usually go direct with Jet Airways and I like getting in the mood for my India trip catching up on all the Bollywood movies and having Indian food on the plane.  Air India are often a little cheaper but Jet are much better. Virgin also fly direct from London to Delhi and Mumbai and are also good.

For flying to Goa , you can get direct flights and package holidays from the UK with Thomson  and Thomas Cook in the tourist season. Otherwise you’ll have to change in Mumbai, Delhi or the Middle East. I usually go with Jet Airways (changing in Mumbai or Delhi) or   Qatar from UK to Goa as the service, food and entertainment are really good, you get a whopping 45kg luggage allowance with Qatar and they have the quickest and most hassle free connection (changing from a domestic to international flight in Mumbai sometimes requires you to leave the airport and travel to the other airport which is annoying)   Oman Air  are also a good choice, the prices are often cheaper but the layover in Muscat is longer and the planes aren’t quite as comfortable.

If you are short on time and plan to take domestic flights within India you can find cheaper deals the further in advance you book. Jet Airways and Indigo and Air Asia are the best for domestic flights. You can sometimes find some cheap deals with Indigo and Air Asia but still flying is far more expensive than taking the train, but unlike trains flights do not often get fully booked so flights are good for last minute travel. Again, check Skyscanner whole month to find the best deal.

Step 8: Book your train tickets

India is vast and traveling large distances take a long time. The best way to travel India is using the wide reaching and great value for money Indian railways network.

But in the world’s most populous country seats sell out fast and trains are often booked up weeks or even months ahead . It’s a good idea to book your train tickets in advance, especially if you are on a short trip or tight itinerary, to ensure that your travels go as smoothly as possible.

Booking train tickets for Indian Railways can seem confusing at first but with Clear Trip  it is possible for foreigners to book train tickets online before arriving in India. If you don’t manage to book trains in advance you can visit major stations a few days before travel to try and get a ticket from the Tourist or Taktal (emergency) Quota.

Failing that you can always take the bus but taking the train is so much more comfortable and an essential Indian experience.

Find out more about Indian railways and how to book train tickets in my Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in India

Update 2018! You can now book Indian trains and buses quickly and easily on 12Go.Asia !

Step 9: Book your first few nights accommodation.

It’s usually quite easy to travel around India, turn up and find budget accommodation as you go in most places. Allowing for the spontaneity and flexibility is all part of the adventure in India but I would recommend that you at least book the first couple of nights accommodation.  Especially if arriving in Delhi and if your flight arrives late at night you might also want to request an airport transfer to your hotel to avoid hassle and potential scams when you first arrive.

I like to use Booking.com because the price is good, you don’t have to pay in advance, if plans change it is usually easy to cancel the reservation and only people who have booked that hotel through Booking.com can leave a review so you can trust the reviews. You can get an app on your phone so you can search and book easily as you travel.

After the first few days, as long as you are not too fussy, you should not have problems finding suitable accommodation when you arrive in a new town. The advantage of doing this is that you can look around the area, inspect a few properties and meet the staff and negotiate the price and actually many of the very cheap accommodation options in India are still not available to book online.

However, I would advise pre booking accommodation during festivals and busy times like Christmas and New Year in Goa or the Pushkar Camel Fair or other festivals when accommodation may become fully booked.

Step 10: Apply for an International Driving License

Hiring a scooter, moped or motorbike is cheap and easy in India and is an especially popular way to get around in places like Goa although first time visitors may find the Indian traffic a bit too chaotic for their liking!  Most guest houses will be able to either rent you a motorbike or know someone that can and most of the time its a pretty casual affair. Expect to pay about 200 – 300 rupees a day for a scooter, more for an iconic Royal Enfield or less if you negotiate a longer term rental.

An international driving permit (the 1949 version)  is required to ride a motorbike in India, you can get this from the Post Office before you leave for only £5.50 and it is valid for a year. Police often stop tourists to check if they have the international driving permit and fine then if they don’t –  and be aware that the international permit is only valid when accompanied by your normal driving license so you need to carry both with you.

It is unusual to rent a car without a driver in India, although this is often very affordable if you do not wish to tackle the Indian traffic yourself!

See more and apply for an International Driving License here and see more Tips for riding a motorbike in India here.

Step 11: Don’t forget to take out travel insurance

Anything could happen when your traveling whether in developed countries or developing ones. It’s just not worth the risk to gamble with your health and, increasingly so, expensive possessions.

Most insurance companies require that you take out a travel insurance policy before you leave home, check the small print of several policies to find the one that offers the best deal for the amount covered, length of your trip, the activities that you plan on doing and the excess that you are willing to pay if you need to claim.

If you have forgotten to take out insurance before you leave the only exception I know is World Nomads Travel Insurance. They also offer great cover and customer service. It’s not worth taking the risk both with your health and as travellers take increasing amounts of technology and valuables on the road with them you will want to be covered for those expensive cameras and smart phones and laptops too.

I use World Nomads because they offer the best coverage and custom service plus you can get cover or extend cover even if you are already traveling whereas most other insurers only cover you if you have not yet left your home country. You can get a quote for World Nomads Travel Insurance here and see more tips about travel insurance in India in this post.

Step 12: Decide what to pack for a trip to India

Packing for India and deciding what to wear can be really confusing for first time visitors, especially for women. When packing for India, it’s important to take into account the country’s conservative dress standards and it is possible to cover up without over heating.

Loose and lightweight clothing is the best option and remember that pretty much anything you could ever need is available to buy in India, often for a lower price than at home and don’t over pack – you can always buy more, it’s easy to get laundry done and it’s a real drag carrying a heavy bag.

• Clothing: Bring loose, light fitting long tops and baggy pants or have fun shopping for colourful India clothes, kurta and salwar kamez – a more practical day to day option that a full length sari. Comfortable, good quality flip flops or sandals and light weight trainers are essential and also bring a fleece for over zealous air conditioning or cold winter nights.
• Gadgets: If you only bring one gadget make it your smart phone as it does everything. Get your phone unlocked so that when you arrive you can get an Indian sim card. Obtaining an Indian sim card is not the simplest process but it well worth it as it will make your travels in India a lot easier, and, as a solo female traveller, I would not be without one. See here  How to get a Sim Card in India .  The easiest way to get connected is hiring a smartphone and Indian sim card from Trabug
• Other essential items include ear plugs, an eye mask, hand sanitizer, pocket tissues, a small padlock and flash light, a sleeping sheet and pillow and some medicines and toiletries (for example tampons can still be hard to find) are useful although if you forget all these can be found in India. The Indian adapters are very different from US, Europe or other parts of Asia and difficult to find at home. It’s usually quite easy to find ones once you get here but they are usually pretty bad quality. If you want to get prepared you could order an  Indian Travel Adapter on Amazon beforehand.

Money Matters:  You can’t change currency to Indian rupees outside the country but it is easy to get once you arrive in India, a money changer or an ATM is never far away. Notify your bank that you will be traveling to India to avoid your card being blocked.

See more in   My Essential India Packing List for Women backpacking India . I also have lots of tips for what to wear in India in this post.

Step 13: Mentally prepare yourself and familarize yourself with India’s culture

Although nothing can really prepare you for traveling in India reading up and learning as much as you can will certainly help prepare you for the culture shock and sensory overload of visiting India for the first time. The Lonely Planet India Travel Guides provide some information on the history and culture of India but getting a book like CultureShock! India    offers a more detailed explanation of India’s diverse and complex culture.

India is not so much a place you go to ‘see’ but a place you go to feel with all your senses – the smells, sights, sounds, tastes, colours and everything else can feel a bit chaotic and overwhelming at first but this is all part of the excitement and despite how crazy India seems at first take it slow and you will get used to it.

When you arrive remember to be patient and open minded, expect the unexpected, take it slow and try not to get stressed out or frustrated by the little things.  The Indian people are amazingly welcoming and hospitable although sadly first time travellers to India can be target for many common scams and general annoyances. But with a little research and reading up on the common scams you should soon be able to spot these a mile off and avoid them.

See How to Avoid the Scams and Survive your first time in Delhi and also check out t he sorts of common scams and how you can avoid them!

I hope this blog has helped you plan your trip to India! Whilst it’s good to be prepared also come with an open mind, open heart and expect the unexpected! Get ready for the ride of your life! Traveling in India can be the most amazing and life changing experience!

Read more India blogs to prepare for your trip to India:

• 5 Common mistakes most first time travellers in India make 
• How to get an Indian Visa (for UK citizens)
• My Top 10 tips for first time travellers in India
• My Tips for Women Traveling in India

Want more India travel tips and stories?

Sign up to the FREE newsletter and discover Incredible India with me!

Backpacking Venice on a Budget: How to see Venice for €50 a day

Typical costs and budget tips for backpacking in india.

Related posts

Packing for southeast asia, 10 tips for riding a motorbike in india (and surviving to tell the tale), life lessons from traveling in india, 66 comments.

Thank you for the tips! Your posts about India are all super useful and cover all the subjects! I’m pinning them and I will definitely remember them when planning my trip to India.

This is such a beautiful and informative post for anyone planning to travel to India. I am not able to recall if I have across with so much information in one post and that too first hand information. You are an inspiration to new travel bloggers like me. This is the kind of information that the travellers are looking for from the bloggers. Keep up the good work. All the very best to you.

Hi Shailender! Thank you so much! That’s so nice to hear and I hope that my articles can make it easier to people to find the information they are looking for about traveling in India. Good luck with your blog too – it looks fab so keep up the good work 🙂

Being an Indian, I can say this amazing list one can follow to start a trip to India. Skyscanner works for me the best for flight as well. Regarding insurance is must as after my Rickshaw Run accident( Head to my blog ) to read about it , I realized as Indian I need it too :)..Hope India create memories for travellers.. Btw have you seen my blog ever? Do drop your two cents there.

I know you wrote this post around 6 months ago but I just want to say that I’ve been on your blog reading up on so much information about travelling India for the past few hours now and I can’t tell you enough how appreciative I am of how helpful, clear, understanding and user-friendly all of your advice is. Keep up the good work!

I’m currently on a Gap Year and looking to begin a 5-6 month trip round India (starting in the South) in 6-8 weeks time.

Hi Dominic, I’m so glad my posts have helped you and wow it’s so lovely to hear that you have enjoyed my blog so much. Good job for starting your Indian adventure in the South! 🙂 I hope you have a really great trip and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any more questions when preparing for your travels to India. So happy I could help! 🙂

When I came across this page, the first thing I liked was the way India was written on the heading and the 2nd, the way the blog post was written. Very informative and apt.

Thanks. IndiaVivid

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it and hope the post is useful 🙂

i always thought you never prepare for India – rather india prepares you for the best 🙂

Yes nothing can ever prepare you fully but I think good planning and research goes along way to having a smooth trip! 🙂

yeah i know ,but you got my point like spot on about ”Nothing can really prepare you thoroughly for India” 😉

Brendon Ferns 🙂

Putting this on my event page for my yoga retreat

Great! Thanks, glad you found it useful 🙂

Hi anna myself and my husband are looking into a retirement in goa , we are both fifty this year is it to early to start thinking about it and what is our first step. We have not been to goa but have a big passion of the asin culture.

Hi Nicky and Mark, thanks for getting in touch! Retiring in Goa sounds great, perhaps you could come on holiday first for a few weeks to see how you like it and start making plans from there. Good luck! 🙂

So informative! Absolutely agree with your tips.I particularly loved the map, its loaded with information on where to travel and when to travel that is going to help tourists. However, I don’t totally agree with traveling as per the season or weather part. You never know what wonderful experience awaits you until you break the path. We absolutely loved it when we went to Ooty (a hill station in south india) during the monsoons, because we loved the clouds, the rains that went on and off, and the absolute and marvelous greenery that surrounded us because of the monsoons. Checkout the full story @ http://revolvingcompass.com/wp/romancing-ooty-monsoons/ We plan to visit Goa in monsoons to enjoy the thunderstorm and the hovering black clouds over the beach. We had been to Mysore in July and it was so comfortable because it was cloudy. At times the monsoons are welcome 🙂

Hi Neha, Thanks for commenting and glad you liked the tips. I wrote it with western tourists like myself in mind, we generally are very disappointed to fly half way round the world for the weather to be rainy, cloudy or cold as that is what we are escaping from at home and also the intense Indian summer heat might also be too much for many western tourists but I agree with you that the monsoons are certainly interesting but I wouldn’t especially come to India in monsoon time – I can stay at home if I want rain! Thanks for your thoughts though, perhaps others will enjoy monsoon weather more than me!

Thank you SO much for this article. So so useful.

Hi Sarah. So glad that it helped! Hope you have a great time in India! Happy Travels 🙂

Hello Guys… Nice blog.. Good job.. Thank you so much for the information. It’s a great post…I love travelling and want to travel all over the world. Explore new places, adventurous things and many more. And photographs are just amazing. Keep writing !!!

Thanks for stopping by – I hope you get to travel the world soon!

Happy Travels 🙂

Very nice post. I liked your post and blog so much. I have read all the post of your blog. India is rich in culture, traditions, heritage buildings, temples, forts and palaces. Famous Indian Monuments includes Old Churches of Goa , Taj Mahal, Qutab Minar of Delhi, Charminar, Red fort and Jantar mantar, these are also few most visited Heritage Sites in India. India is well known for its tourist spots like Kerala’s backwaters, Ladakh for its scenic beauty, Beaches of Goa, culture of Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kashmir – Heaven on earth, Darjeeling- visitor’s paradise.

Hi Ademar, thanks so much, glad you liked the blog. I agree with you, there are so many amazing places and things to see in India! 🙂

Hi Anna, Im planning to travel to India, Uttra Pradesh in august..

Hey Kasturi – Thanks for stopping by. Hope you ave a good trip 🙂

Hi Anna, thank you for the great tips! I will be traveling to India in October and am trying to collect as much information I can before I go.

Hi Chris, so glad you found it useful! Hope you have a great time in India! 🙂

Amazingly explained the facts! It’ll be immensely helpful for the foreigners who want to visit the Incredible India and take back home a everlasting memory. Trip to India often don’t cost more as you can easily get budget-friendly hotels or resorts with all the modern amenities to enjoy. However, before traveling, you must do your home work and research about the places thoroughly that you want to explore. Anyways, thanks a lot for this insightful article.

Thanks, glad you liked the post. Yes, India can be a very budget friendly country to visit

Thankyou so much for your information and advice….I want to go October for 3 months…but as you say the hardest part is booking the ticket. Reading this has made me believe I can do it. (Solo traveller f51)

Hi Pauline! Yes, it’s can be nerve wracking to make the leap but I find that things usually come together once you start. “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” If you are feeling nervous about traveling alone then maybe book a group tour for the first few days or a backpacker hostel where you can met other travellers. Let me know if you decide to go and how you get on or if you need any more tips 🙂

Thank you for the article. I have one question have you seen a snake while visiting? I have heard venomous snakes are popular in India.

Thanks, I’ve only seen snakes in monsoon. I’ve never heard of any friends or travellers being hurt by snakes in India – I don’t think you need to worry about snakes 🙂

I love travelling and want to travel all over the world specially in my own country.Thank you very much for your great useful information and advice.No doubt India is rich in culture, traditions, heritage buildings, temples and palaces.It’s really a great post

Thanks! Glad you liked the post! Theres so many amazing things to see in India 🙂

i am from india and i want to tell you that if you are adventure lover then you must visit rishikesh

India is beautiful country. I am searching on google India travel trip information and i found this much useful blog. I read your blog. You share the perfect information on India travel trip. Thanks you so much.

Anna, I throughly enjoyed your story. My travels have all been similar to yours but not in the way you have traveled. I was in the USAF for 30 years which gave me the opportunity to see and do things in foreign countries. After retirement from the Air Force and my wife, I have continued to travel. People always ask me why do I travel so much. Your article has given me the answer to that. Thank you. I am 95 now and in Oct I am taking one of my daughter’s to India. I have been to India 2 times before – Calcutta and Delhi – but missed the Taj. I’ll write again. Jack

Hi Jack! Great to hear you liked my blog! 🙂 Being in the USAF must have been very interesting and enabled you to travel alot! Great to hear you are taking your daughters to India – hope you have a great time!

The given information is really helpful, what I really like about the post is I can find every and what i need to plan for the trip.

Thanks for sharing the useful and unique blog post, it is really awesome, Your information very effective for the new and old visitor. Thanks Again

Thanks, Dud, you know the first time I have read a travels blog, where I found someone has shared a good and original experience about my country, I think you understand why I am saying. If you came here again visit Mathura, Rishikesh, Agra, Rajgir in Bihar and there are things in India. I tell you after the visit you will get more better experience because I know my India is incredible and traditions country. We always well come our guest. Thanks Again

“Atithi Dew Bhaw”

Thanks so much Shaurya 🙂

very good information. thanks for your help.

very good information. thanks for your help. looking forward to apply this info in my travel.

This was a really interesting post, thanks for sharing your travel experience…

This is such a useful post. I’d love for visit India! I agree about doing the research for volunteering, you have to be so careful.

Hello Anna, Thanks for your great combination and excellent guideline for traveling in the Indian subcontinent. Here I am getting a complete guideline to travel India. I gain a lot of knowledge before traveling India from your share.

Thanks! Glad you liked the article and found it useful for your next trip. Happy Travels 🙂

Thanks Anna for sharing these lovely trips. I am planning to explore India in the month of October. Your tips help me how I am planning a trip.

This blog was so impressive I have got all my require information to visit the places to India. The tourist destination you mention in your blog was so good. I have get the knowledge about various parts of India. The historical places and national parks you mentioned was so beautiful. The pictures was also appreciable.

This blog was so impressive I have got all my required information to visit the places to India. The tourist destination you mention in your blog was so good. I have got knowledge of various parts of India. The historical places and national parks you mentioned was so beautiful. The pictures were also appreciable.

Thanks so much 🙂

Hi Anna, that was really informative stuff I have read. Thank you so much for sharing. As I am from India, I would like to ask you What is that one thing you really like about India? Keep inspiring.

Thanks Sweta! Glad you liked it! There’s so many things I like about it I would be here for a lifetime trying to write them all down haha!

Here’s 21 things I really like about India! 🙂 https://www.global-gallivanting.com/reasons-i-love-india/ 🙂

I would love to go there. Keep sharing!!

Great information and explain everything properly. Thanks for sharing a nice article.

As an Indian I agree with most of the points written in this blog, specially the point “when you should travel in India”. Budget travelers should keep in mind, winters are also the peak season in most of the tourist spots in India, so they should be prepared for accommodation before their visit.

This article will be really an inspiration for travelers who want to visit India. Thank You Anna for such a beautiful article.

Thanks Souren – coming from an Indian thats a great compliment. I’m really glad you found my blog useful 🙂

wow your post is really perfect for person travelling to India like me.. Will look for your other post also.. It is really informative and there is so much stuff to look at… Thanks for sharing this information..

Nice post author. Thank you. Keep it up.

i was planning for a family trip there, and luckily found this amazing informational guide… thanks a lot as this guide will help me for my family travel trip… briefly explained travel guide…!! Amazing guide and amazing travel blog too

[…] India if monsoon time is the only time you can take a holiday. Most travellers to India try to plan their trip to avoid the monsoon and the best time to visit most of from November – March when the weather […]

[…] Read More: The Complete Step by Step Guide to Planning your First Trip to India […]

[…] to visit in India that it would take a lifetime to see them all and sometimes the hardest part of planning a trip to India is narrowing down where to go and deciding which places in India you simply can’t […]

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

India Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth India travel guide ?

We’ve got all your Indian travel information covered!

India is a vibrant and beautiful country that has become a travel hotspot in recent years.

From historic Hindu temples to the emerging metropolises of Mumbai and Delhi, there’s a lot to explore in this country of nearly 1.4 billion people.

There’s so much to see beyond the top attractions like the Taj Mahal and beaches of Goa — but don’t miss those, either!

For instance, the southern state of Kerala offers lush mountain vistas perfect for cycling and hiking. Moreover, the town of Bundi in Rajasthan offers much-needed peace, particularly for solo female travelers .

Of course, there are so many flavors to sample throughout the country from classic chai to curries of all kinds.

There is a lot to consider when planning a trip to India, from safety concerns to medial preparations (check the CDC’s website for vaccine and medication recommendations).

Thankfully, you can apply for a visa to visit India without setting foot in an embassy. Just apply for your visa online with the Indian government a few days ahead of your trip. Keep reading to learn more about visa requirements.

And on that note, let’s dive into the India traveling guide.

Note: This guide to India travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

What would you add to this India travel guide?

Use this India travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Best Destinations In India

Here is where to go when traveling in India .

5 Must-Visit Places To Experience The Best Of India

Traveling Northern India: 12 Experiences Beyond The Temples & Taj Mahal

10 Reasons Why Kerala Should Be Your Next Trip

India Adventures

Love hiking, cycling, and active adventures? Don’t miss:

Dzükou Valley Trek: Your Ultimate Guide To India’s Famous Hike

South India Travel Guides: Kerala

Traveling India and spending time in Kerala? These guides can help!

An Organic Farmstay Experience In Kerala, India

Houseboating Through Kerala’s Backwaters

Cycling The “Scotland Of Asia” To An Organic Farm In Kerala, India

Cycling Kerala’s Cardamom Trail

Ascending Tall Peaks & The World’s Highest Organic Tea Garden In Kerala

Why Kerala’s Silent Valley Is One Of The World’s Best National Parks

Cycling Kerala’s Culturally-Immersive Canal Route

South India Travels In Goa

Check out these guides and tips for travel to India when you’re visiting Goa.

Great Goa: Yoga, Dolphins & A Dose Of Clarity On Palolem Beach

A Disappointing Spice Farm Day Trip In Goa (& What To Do Instead)

Tips For Northern India Travel

Check out these northern India travel itineraries .

India’s Unique Karni Mata Temple Is Devoted To Worshipping Rats

10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Delhi, India

How To Get High (Legally) In Varanasi, India

The Secret To Finding Peace In India Can Be Found In Bundi

Exploring Northern India Through Food

10 Amazing Places For A Solo Trip From Delhi, India

Tips For India Travel

These tips for travel in India can help you plan the perfect trip.

Ayurverdic Massage In India: Not For The Modest

10 Reasons Why You Need To Visit India

5 Amazing Ways You Can Explore India’s Spiritual Side

9 Essential Travel Tips For Southern India

20 Unforgettable Solo Female Travel Destinations In India

India Travel Stories

Enjoy these travel stories about India .

How India Broke Me (& Why I’m Thankful For It)

That Time I Was Charged By An Elephant In India

12 India Travel Stories From The Crazy To The Inspiring

Asia Travel Tips

This Asia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip.

24 Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia

Top India Tours

Check out these fun tours in India from my affiliate partner, Viator:

• South Mumbai Walking Tour: Markets and Mumbadevi Temple
• Wildlife Safari & Off-Roading at Jhalana Safari Park from Jaipur
• Taj Mahal Sunrise Same Day by Car from Delhi

India Travel Insurance

No Asia travel guide would be complete without discussing safety.

When visiting India — or anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Bonus: It’s quick to obtain! I’ve even purchased mine right from the cab to the airport from home.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

India Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in India!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Renting A Car In India

Need a rental car for your India trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

India Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling India.

Q: Is India safe for travel?

India is a fairly safe place for travelers but you should practice extra vigilance during your trip, particularly in cities. Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching is fairly common, so be sure to pay close attention to your belongings and keep your valuables in a safe location to avoid pickpockets .

Travelers have also had their drinks and food spiked in hotels, restaurants and bars, particularly in smaller establishments. Never leave your drink unattended, don’t accept food or drinks from strangers and above all, trust your gut.

Sexual harassment of women is unfortunately quite common in India, for both locals and travelers. For tourists, this mostly consists of staring and unwanted attention. It’s important to do your research on the locations you’re planning on visiting and transportation methods, as sexual harassment is more prevalent in some areas than others. Generally speaking, it’s best to dress modestly and avoid going out alone at night.

Finally, some areas of India, particularly Jammu and Kashmir, are prone to violence and conflict. Be sure to do your research on current issues in the country while planning your trip.

Q: Is India cheap to visit?

India is known as one of the least expensive travel destinations in the world, so your money can go far here! Upfront costs like roundtrip flights will likely be your biggest expense depending on your departure city. Once you’re in India, food, transportation, and accommodations are very inexpensive. Even higher-end travelers can expect to pay about 100 USD per day in the country.

Q: Does India have visa-free travel countries?

The only people who do not need a visa to travel to India are citizens of Nepal and Bhutan . Otherwise, all travelers from outside of India will need a visa to visit the country. How much you pay for your visa depends on your country of origin, but you can easily apply for a visa online on the Indian government’s website .

It’s recommended to view your country’s India International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements — including visa information — for foreign citizens. You can also contact the Embassy of India.

Q: Do I need a visa for travel to India from the USA?

Yes. Nearly all international visitors to India require a visa and this includes visitors from the USA. A tourist visa will let you visit the country for 10 years for a stay of up to 180 days and will set you back about 150 USD.

Q: When is the best time to visit India?

The best time to visit India is outside of the monsoon season, generally between October and late April. During this time, the climate is typically drier and more pleasant, though temperatures can dip during December. Also, be aware of Hindu festivals, like Diwali and Holi, and Muslim holidays like Ramadan, as these can affect the number of crowds you’ll encounter in certain areas.

Q: What are the best vacation spots in India?

If you’re looking for vacation ideas in India, a few of the best places to visit include Kerala for nature, Goa for beaches, Varanasi for the rich and visible history, and Madhya Pradesh for the incredible temples.

Love hiking? The Dzükou Valley Trek in the Indian state of Nagaland is truly unforgettable!

Traveling to Asia alone ? There are also many great solo trips for women in India , like Bir, Manali, and Rishikesh.

These are just a few of many great cities, states, and areas to visit when traveling throughout India.

Enjoyed this India travel guide? Pin it for later!

Everything you need to pack for a trip to India

To step off the train in Jaipur after a long morning’s journey from Delhi, I inch my way closer to the exit packed with passengers trying to dismount and board all at once. Carrying a 50L backpack, as well as small daypack strapped to the front of my chest, makes maneuvering through the crowd of women in bright silk saris and men in freshly pressed pants a challenge.

On the platform – awash with the smells of rosewater perfume, deep-fried snacks and burning brush in the distance – is when I really start to sweat under the unforgiving midday sun and the weight of all my belongings sinks into my shoulders. I consider that perhaps I didn’t need four pairs of shoes or as many tops as I packed.

After two months in India – 5 weeks spent backpacking Rajasthan and 3 weeks as part of Intrepid’s South India Revealed trip – I confess: I over-packed.

If you want to pack efficiently for India, throw out all the rules you usually follow. Here’s what you really need for a comfortable trip through the subcontinent.

My Intrepid group at Mysore Palace

During peak fall and winter season, temps in Rajasthan hover between 30-35 degrees Celsius and there’s little rain. The south, especially the coast, is thick with humidity and temperatures sway more wildly reaching mid 30s during the day and dropping to as low as mid 20s after dark. In summer the the north of India, especially the western desert can top 45 and the south is drenched from monsoons.

READ MORE: THE MAGIC OF MOVING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE IN INDIA

Long sleeves to beat the heat

It seems counter-intuitive, but lightweight, long sleeves do a better job of protecting from the sun and heat than short sleeves or tank tops. Throw a button-down shirt in your backpack, too. It’s easy to pull it on over a t-shirt or tank top before entering temples.

Loose fitting and breathable clothing

Leave the skinny jeans at home. It’s far more comfortable to wear long skirts, loose-fitting pants, and airy t-shirts.

Want to go shopping? Kurtas for men and women (tunics that range from calf-length to shorter mid-thigh versions) are extremely easy to find, ultra affordable, and comfortable.

Breathable clothing for coconut-buying

You’ll see plenty of women all over the country wearing a range of colors and styles over leggings, and most men donning over jeans or khakis. For women, I highly recommend bringing breathable running/yoga leggings to wear under long t-shirts or tunics.

Additional packing tips from Ashish Verma, Intrepid Travel’s Contracting Manager in India:

Ear plugs in noisy cities are a must-pack. A torch and a microfiber travel towel are also a good idea.

Dress modestly

Long skirts or pants along with modest tops will blend in far more, and are required when visiting temples. Remember, both men and women need to cover shoulders and knees. In addition, if you are visiting a Jain temple, no leather is allowed.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES IN INDIA

Dressing respectfulyl in Bijaipur

Actually, bring two. There will be times when you’ll want to drape it around your shoulders and arms to enter temples and other times when it comes in handy as a wrap for cool nights, or even to loosely put over your face during tuk-tuk rides in dust or smog.

SUBSCRIBE TO INTREPID’S NEWSLETTER FOR TRAVEL DEALS, GIVEAWAYS, STORIES & TIPS

Comfortable shoes

Roads are dirty, cow dung is everywhere in crowded cities and you’ll likely be climbing stone ruins at some point. Dark-colored sneakers are the most practical and comfortable. Throw in a pair of sturdy flip-flops or Birkenstocks for shorter walks or coastal towns or days when there are temple visits. (For temple visits, you need to remove shoes before entering.)

If you go to India and don’t ride the train , you’re doing it wrong. It’s a memorable and social experience, but one that requires a little bit of pre-planning. Bring a small bag of toiletries, toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and snacks.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OVERNIGHT TRAINS IN INDIA

Electronics

Bring a portable charger, especially for long bus rides. Extra camera batteries, as it’s much harder to find them in India than it is back home. And don’t forget a plug adapter and even an extra phone charging cord. It was so hot on my trip I had one partially melt in the sun.

Depending on the area and time of year, mosquitoes can range from slight nuisance to serious problems.

Bug spray is a necessity when outdoors!

Apply liberally as the smog often masks the intensity of the sun.

Dry shampoo

Manage expectations and India is delightful. There’s not always hot water at all times of the day. Even if the water is warm, there might not be enough for a full hair wash. Dry shampoo is your best beauty friend.

Always consult your travel doctor before a trip to ensure you have the right vaccines and any necessary emergency medication or asthma inhalers. In addition, bring over-the-counter remedies for Delhi belly, headaches, cold medication, and rehydration powder in case of dehydration.

READ MORE: HOW TO AVOID DELHI BELLY IN INDIA

One of the best tips I ever got from a travel pro was to carry Vicks VapoRub to help with congestion resulting from poor air quality and to smear a tiny patch under your nose in times of potent odors (think the side streets of Varanasi).

Sensory overload in Varanasi

Or three. When not zig-zagging through ancient ruins or grand palaces, there will be downtime on buses and trains. A good book is a welcome companion.

My fellow passengers chuckled, but I always carry a few snacks like biscuits or chips and a sturdy spork to ensure I have clean utensils if a sudden street food craving comes on.

READ MORE: 10 QUESTIONS WITH ONE OF INTREPID’S AMAZING LOCAL LEADERS, ANKITA

Water bottle

Plastic is a problem all over the world, and you’ll especially notice it in trash heaps in India. There are several locations and hotels where you can refill a water bottle – your guide will let you know the safest source for drinking water.

Keeping hydrated with chai

The ultimate packing list:

After reassessing my trip, here’s what I’d highly recommend in terms of quantity of clothing – keep in mind you can do laundry during the trip.

• 1 long skirt (to cover knees)
• 1 maxi dress
• 1 pair loose or khaki pants (2-3 pairs for men in lieu of skirts/dresses)
• 1 long-sleeve, cotton button-down shirt
• 2 tunics (bought in India— 1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)
• 1-2 pairs quick-dry leggings/yoga pants
• 5 pairs underwear
• 5 pairs quick-dry socks
• 2 bras (1 sports bra, 1 regular)
• 2 scarves (or buy them in India)
• 1 hoodie or lightweight sweater
• 1 bathing suit
• 1 pair sneakers
• 1 pair flip flops or walking sandals
• 1 pair shorts (only if you are in the south and plan on spending time on the beach)

Now you’ve got the gear, it’s adventure time. Check out Intrepid’s range of small group tours in India.

(Group photos courtesy of Kristin Amico. All others courtesy of Intrepid Travel.)

Feeling inspired?

Kristin Amico

In early 2017 I quit my full-time job, gave up my Boston apartment, sold most of my belongings, and bought a one-way ticket overseas. I'm currently spending a year living nomadically and eating my way across Europe and Asia. My food and travel writing has appeared on Intrepid Travel, Fodor's, Paste Magazine, and The Kitchn. Follow my adventure on Instagram @Kristinamico.

You might also like

5 reasons to visit sri lanka in the..., why 2024 is the best year to see..., 6 unique experiences you can have in el..., from delhi to udaipur, here are the five..., cinque terre vs amalfi coast: which destination to..., love at first bite: 10 famous sandwiches from..., galapagos or madagascar which unique destination should be..., central vs south america: how to plan your..., 4 reasons you should take a road trip..., lessons learned on intrepid’s sabah adventure, travelling to chile here’s the best time to....

India Travel Guide

Your ultimate india travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in india. great for first-time and returning travelers..

We used to think that until we went to India we could never truly call ourselves world travelers. Why would we think this?

Well, India is overwhelming, to say the least. It’s a difficult travel that stirs all of your emotions. You will witness extreme poverty, yet extreme wealth. You will also witness suffering and sadness yet experience overwhelming kindness and warmth.

But make sure you keep an eye out for Scams too, there are a lot of  Travel Scams in India .

We spent three months in India traveling up the country on local trains and buses in every class. We loved it, we hated it and it has stuck with us forever.

We felt that if you could travel independently in India, you can travel anywhere and now we feel that we can truly call ourselves world travelers.  This India  travel guide  will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

• Arunachal Pradesh
• Hampi Ruins

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about India

• Power voltage is: 220-240 V; Plugs C & D
• Currency: The Indian Rupee – approximately 60 rupees to 1 USD
• ATMs can be found everywhere
• SIM Cards are easy to buy for your unlocked smartphones. Data is cheap and fast but you will have to get a different SIM card for each state.
• Tipping is expected in India, everyone expects backsheesh for everything.

Things to See and Do in India

• Go Bouldering in Hampi  – Hampi was one of our favourite destinations. We spent well over a week, in Hampi exploring it’s incredible ruins, surrounded by millions of boulders. Some so big that you can do a proper climb on them.
• BackWaters of Alleppy  – A boat tour of the Backwaters in Alleppy is a wonderful, relaxing experience. You can hire your own personal boat and putter through amazing culture and scenery.
• Holi Festival  – the most colourful and uplifting festival you will ever visit will be Holi in India. Get ready to be covered in powder and liquid as you dance through the streets.
• Practice Yoga  – If you have ever wanted to study yoga, India is the place to do it.
• Ayurvedic Massage  – Sign up for a month and really delve into the culture.
• Pakistan Border Ceremony – This is the best moment you’ll see in India. Each night at the Pakistan Border in Punjab a great spectacle happens as the changing of the guards put on a show.
• The Golden Temple   – Move over Taj Mahal the Golden Temple of Amritsar is the most incredible temple of India in our opinion.
• Udaipur  – Everyone will recognize Udaipur from the white hotel in the middle of the lake. Remember Octopussy? That’s the lake I’m talking about.
• Rajasthan is your gateway to the Thar Desert for a  camel safari . The Blue, Pink and Gold Cities aka Jodhpur, Jaipur and Jaisalmer are also located here and not to be missed.

India Travel Guides

• Udaipur – Things to do in The Most Romantic City in India
• India Train Travel
• 7 Best Hill Stations Near Delhi to Experience True India
• Arunachal Pradesh, India – 5 Experiences You Will Love
• 6 Reasons why you should visit North East India
• Solo Travel in India – Tips from a Local

Accommodation

Budget  – Budget hotels in India provide free Wi-Fi, airport transport, and clean family rooms. They start at $14 per night.

Mid Range  – Most of the mid-range hotels offer free breakfast, 24/7 room service, a television, and a balcony too. They cost up to $130 per night.

High End  – High-end hotels start at around $400 per night and may include a private gym, pool, and lounge.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and  VRBO   for the best deals on accommodation in India.

• Alu Gobi  – It is a dry vegetable dish, cooked with potatoes, cauliflower, and Indian spices. The addition of turmeric powder makes it yellow. It is one of the most popular dishes ordered in restaurants. 
• Rogan Josh  – It is a staple of Kashmiri cuisine brought by the Mughals. It is a brilliant red that comes from the dried Kashmiri chilies. Lamb cooked with gravy is a must eat if you are a lamb lover.
• Samosas  – These are deep-fried or baked pastry types with savory fillings such as flavored potatoes, chicken, beef, onions, or peas. Samosas are common street food, and people eat them as a mid-day snack. 
• Malai Kofta  – Malai means “cream.” It is cooked in a creamy gravy that is made of tomatoes and cashew nuts. It’s an alternative for a vegetarian dish. 
• Tandoori Chicken  – This is a prevalent North India dish and is prepared with roasted chicken, yogurt, and spices. It is cooked in a clay oven that is known as a tandoor hence its name. The dish goes well with basmati rice and Naan.
• Beef Vindaloo  – This is a curry dish popular in the Goa region. A vindaloo paste can be a blend of chilies with coriander, cumin, and other authentic spices. It is a spicy dish, but many restaurants minimize the spice by reducing the number of chilies.
• Masala Chai  – Masala chai is a worldwide popular beverage originally made in India. It is traditionally made by brewing black tea with a mixture of herbs and spices. It is now even sold in teabag form.

The Best Ways to Get Around India

Getting to india:.

Flights:  There are direct flights available from Pakistan, China, Iran, Iraq and other countries too. The major airports in India are Indira Gandhi International Airport, Chennai International Airport, and Mumbai International Airport.

You can check for the best flights to India on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Train is the best way to get around India. India Rail has an extensive system that goes to every corner of the country. It is cheap, and you can book 2nd or 1st class seats for a very comfortable ride. But it can be confusing, read our full post on Navigating India Rail here.

Buses : Local buses are found in India, but you may want to travel in a group for safety.

Taxis / Uber : Uber cabs are found in India almost 24/7. They have a base fare of 47 Indian rupees.

Car Rental:  Car rentals in India start from $22 per day. You can also compare  prices here .

When to go To India

India is a big country and when packing you should take into consideration where you are going. The South is hot all year long so you can get away with packing light.

In Delhi, it gets very cold. We were there in January and temperatures hit zero.

Where to Stay in India

• Lakeside Chalet, Mumbai – Marriott Executive Apartments  – This is a luxurious accommodation in the city of Mumbai. These are clean apartments with free internet services and a full-sized kitchen in each room.
• Hilton Mumbai International Airport  – This is only 5 minutes away from the domestic terminal at Mumbai Airport. It is the top hotel choice for business travelers who don’t want to travel far away from the airport. They provide a private pool, bottled water, free breakfast, and other VIP facilities.
• The Leela Mumbai  – This is one of the finest and luxurious hotels in Mumbai, India. The hotel is surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of waterfalls and gardens and only 5 minutes away from Chatrapati Shivaji Airport.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for India

In the desert it can fall to zero at night and the Himalayas is downright cold. Take this into consideration when packing. Here are a few essential items we recommend having on hand for India. For a full list see  13 Essential Items & 5 we wish we Had for India   and  Travel Gear, did we need it all?

• Pacsafe –  Train travel in India can be nerve-racking, especially if you have to keep an eye on your bags. Lock them to your bunk with a package and you’ll sleep safe and sound.
• Combination Padlock  – The same can be said for a padlock. It’s always good to give things an extra lock up when traveling in India
• Headlamps –  We found our headlamps invaluable. It’s amazing how often you are walking in the dark in India
• Ear Plugs –  India is loud. You’ll have a better night sleep if you wear earplugs. Check out  10 things that will ruin your sleep in India
• Wet Ones –  India is a dirty place, there’s no denying it. Have some handy wet naps to wash up in a snap
• Sarongs  – I think I have sarongs in every packing list. From covering up when visiting temples, being used as a towel or keeping cool on a hot night.

Note:  Women, be sure to dress modestly, India is mainly Hindu and has one of the largest Muslim populations at 177 million. Be respectful of the culture. Buying clothes in India is a great way to blend with the locals and be more comfortable. 

See our packing tips:  packing tips

India Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

India Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about India  click here.

24 Best Indian Dishes To Try in India or In An Indian Restaurant

Holi India – Celebrate the Festival of Colors

28 Facts About India That You Probably Never Knew About

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

I Traveled Through Southern India for 2 Weeks Without Checking a Bag — These 14 Products Made It a Breeze

These travel essentials come recommended by someone who has been traveling to Asia for 15 years.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

For the last 15 years (with a brief exception for the COVID-19 pandemic), my family and I have celebrated Christmas and New Year’s abroad in Africa or Asia. From Madagascar, Indonesia, and Tanzania to Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore, I’ve gotten used to spending two weeks during the holidays in warm, muggy climates, swapping coats and boots for sandals and flowy dresses .

This year, my family and I spent two weeks bouncing around India’s southwestern state of Kerala, nicknamed “God’s own country” for the richness of its natural beauty . From misty mountain towns and river-framed cities to urban metropolises and the roaring sandy coast of the Arabian Sea, the a trip filled with constant movement and changing climates, requiring gear, accessories, and clothing that could accommodate everything (think: versatile travel bags , one-and-done outfits , and more). 

And, as someone who is prone to overpacking, I wanted to challenge myself to only bring a carry-on suitcase and a personal item in an effort to travel light — a skill that I have yet to master since becoming a travel writer. These are the 14 travel essentials that topped my packing list, and ensured that my whirlwind ,two-week trip was smooth and effortless – even with just a carry-on. 

R. Vivimos Women’s Long-sleeve Midi Dress

I had three requirements when packing my wardrobe for my trip: stylish, breathable, and modest. These Amazon long-sleeved bohemian-style dresses (thankfully) satisfied them all. As someone just under 5 feet, 1 inches, I was initially worried that the length and oversized style would dwarf my small frame, but I was pleasantly surprised when they only came up to mid-shin. I purchased three styles and colors, and wore them while exploring the city of Kochi and the mountain town of Munnar. 

Despite being long-sleeved, they were breathable and comfortable, and they helped me survive the oppressive Indian heat with optimal sun coverage. The dress comes in 35 different color and print variations that can be worn during the summer, fall, or spring, so it’s a versatile wardrobe staple for any traveler. 

Topbag Family Passport Holder 

I’m a triple citizen of Italy, Ireland, and the United States, and, as an anxious flier, I always travel with all three of my passports, just in case. That’s why I use this family passport holder to safely secure my three passports and other important documents in one easy-to-reach place. 

It can hold up to six passports, which is convenient for families or friends traveling together. The passport holder also comes with a cash pocket and six card slots, which I use to stash away my other forms of identification, bills, loose change, past flight tickets, and my Italian SIM card for when I return home to Rome. But that’s not all: it also has a strap that you can wear around your wrist and a back pocket large enough to fit an iPhone, so you can have all of your major belongings on you in one place (and it doubles as a secure sling bag if you're not a fan of big purses). It helps make the chaos of traveling just a little more organized. 

Prite Corduroy Tote Bag

I collect tote bags, especially for when I travel, so when I received this large, olive-green corduroy one for Christmas, it was a match made in tote heaven. It has a zippered closure that I appreciated for keeping my valuable items from tumbling out. And, for those who love pockets – well, you’re in luck: The tote has a large outside pocket that can close magnetically, two interior slip pockets, and one ample interior zippered pocket which I used to secure my wallet, passports, and keys.

I carried this tote around with me everywhere during my trip, and was able to fit my passports, sunglasses, Kindle Fire, lip balms, earphones, chargers, mints, a 32-ounce HydroJug tumbler, and deodorant, all with plenty of room to spare. The large 18-inch by 15-inch by 4-inch tote is made with durable corduroy and is sturdy enough to carry heavier items like books and laptops, which is what I’ve been using it for since my trip. 

VibiVenezia Women's Timeless Rosso Velvet Slippers

Vibivenezia

Friulane, or furlane, are popular Venetian velvet slippers that date as far back as the 19th century. They’re a staple in every Italian woman’s closet and add a pop of color and playful elegance to any outfit, which is why I wear mine all the time when I travel. They’re also very comfortable, especially since I had my favorite cobbler in Rome add another layer of rubber to the soles for extra cushioning.

I love the burst of color that they give my outfits, and my orange pair paired especially well with one of the long-sleeved dresses that I purchased for my trip in shades of yellow and orange. I buy most of my friulane from small boutiques when I’m home in Italy, but VibiVenezia is a popular Italian brand that offers the slippers in a literal rainbow of colors and styles. No need to worry – they ship to the United States, so you can wear a small piece of Italy on your feet, too.

HydroJug 32-ounce Tumbler 

I’m especially horrible at remembering to drink water during long flights, which is likely why I always feel like a wretched, dried husk after traveling. I’ve gotten better at hydrating myself since purchasing a mini, 32-ounce HydroJug tumbler. I usually fill it using water fountains at the airport to ensure that I have enough to keep my body happy while up in the air. This was especially important during my many long flights to India, and even more so upon arriving, as my family and I had to be careful of the drinking water we consumed. 

The hotels we stayed at provided bottles of purified drinking water, which I used to fill up my HydroJug while we were out exploring. This not only ensured that I was staying hydrated in the unforgiving heat, but also that I was consuming safe drinking water. HydroJugs come with the option to purchase a sleeve and strap that can be worn around your person for a hands-free experience, which is especially useful for trips where you’re moving around a lot. 

Asia Palomba

Longbida Women's Cropped Denim Jacket

While the majority of my trip called for a summer wardrobe, there was one occasion that required slightly warmer attire. My family and I spent two days in Munnar, a mountain town nestled between sprawling emerald-green tea plantations and lush forests. The higher altitude was pleasantly chilly, especially at night and in the early morning. Although it was a welcome respite from the heat, I needed to stay warm, and my cropped, faded denim jacket did just the trick.

Although mine can technically be classified as “vintage,” as it was passed down to me from my mother, I found this affordable version at Amazon that comes in 16 different colors and patterns and is easy to pack (or wear on a plane if you're trying to save luggage space). 

Havaianas Mini Bag

I spent a week soaking up some much-needed vitamin D rays in the coastal town of Kovalam, and this water-resistant Havaianas mini bag was wrapped around my wrist every day. Made with durable silicone, this small, colorful bag is a staple of mine for any beach outing. I mostly use it to safely store my iPhone from sand and water, but it’s also doubled as a no-frills purse for my wallets, keys, and lip balms. It was gifted to me by my Brazilian friend nearly a decade ago, and it’s accompanied me all over the world, from Greece and Sardinia to Thailand and Indonesia – and it still looks brand new.

Sun Bum Lip Balm SPF 30 3-pack 

As someone who is unfortunately prone to lip blisters after prolonged exposure to the sun, I always have SPF lip balms on deck. Sun Bum’s lip balms have recently become a favorite of mine, not just for their high protection, but also for their tropical flavors that release a burst of summer whenever I twist off their caps. Each gluten-free and vegan lip balm is packed with aloe vera, cocoa butter, and vitamin E, so they roll on super smooth and keep my lips soft and hydrated throughout the day. 

I bought this three-pack ahead of my trip, and almost used them all down to the nub. Part of my excessive use may have been because of how nice they smelled (and tasted), but regardless, I was relieved that my laying in the sun like a lizard didn’t result in any sun blisters. 

Anrabess Women’s Loose Spaghetti Strap Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits are one of my favorite go-to summer outfits for a breathable, comfortable, and stylish look. I have a bordeaux-colored one that I purchased years ago from Urban Outfitters that I wear to near tatters every summer for these reasons. I, of course, brought this jumpsuit on my trip with me and paired it with black lace-up sandals for more formal events such as New Year’s Eve. For most of my trip, however, flip-flops were my standard footwear. 

While the exact jumpsuit I own can’t be found online anymore, there is this affordable Amazon option that has more than 2,000 five-star ratings. Available in 25 colors and patterns with sizes ranging from S to 2XL, it's an especially versatile and traveler-loved staple that I’m looking into trying myself once summer comes around.

Miady Dual USB Portable Chargers 2-pack

These pocket-sized dual USB chargers have been a boon during my travels, and my trip through India was no exception. There were a couple of days when my family and I spent hours traveling between cities, so these portable chargers helped juice up our phones throughout the day. I’ve also used them to power up other devices such as my Kindle Fire and iPad, so it's an especially helpful travel essential to always have on you.

Available in a variety of colors, each charger has two USB ports that can charge two devices at the same time, so they’re useful for traveling with friends and family. But don’t just take it from me — these durable, slim portable chargers have over 75,000 five-star ratings at Amazon.

Tessan Universal Travel Adapter

Any frequent flier knows the value of a good travel adapter, and this Amazon one is one of my favorites. The plug works in over 150 countries, from Italy and Dubai to China and New Zealand — so you know that you’ll always be covered no matter how far you travel. It also comes with four USB ports that can charge up to five devices at a time. Because of its versatility, I was able to easily share it with members of my family, which significantly cut down the amount of arguments over outlets that we had during our trip. Compact and lightweight, it can easily fit into any carry-on or personal item, which is why it’s always one of the travel essentials I pack first.

Twelve South AirFly Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

I can never sleep on airplanes, so watching movies is one of the best ways for me to pass the long hours. The earphones they hand out on the airplanes have always bothered my ears, not to mention the subpar audio quality they provide that makes watching anything a frustrating experience. That’s why I was intrigued when I came across this traveler-loved, pocket-sized bluetooth audio transmitter . The Airfly device seamlessly connects your wireless earphones to the airplane’s seatback television (and can also be used to connect to tablets, hotel gym TVs, etc.), which has vastly improved my international flight experience. 

The many flights and hours it took to reach India literally flew by (pun intended) because of this small but mighty device. I currently have the device that can only connect one pair of headphones, but I’m looking into purchasing the dual AirFly version for when I travel with my partner.

Béis The Mini Weekender Bag

This Mini Weekender has quickly become my favorite carry-on for international trips since I received it for Christmas. Durable, compact, and sleek, it’s perfect for maximizing your limited packing space when only traveling with carry-on items — there’s a reason why it’s universally loved by flight attendants . 

It especially came in handy when returning from India, as it was able to hold the majority of the souvenirs that I had purchased during my two weeks there. Its structured bottom shoe compartment, which is trimmed with stylish vegan leather, was useful for holding all of my sandals, slippers, and flip-flops, which freed up much-needed space in my carry-on suitcase. I have trips to Ireland, Italy, Portugal, and Morocco planned within the next few months, and I’m looking into using compression packing cubes to maximize the Mini Weekender’s potential.

Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Sunglasses

The Ray-Ban classic aviators have been my go-to pair of sunglasses since I was 13, so it should come as no surprise that they came to India with me. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and stylish — and, not to mention, great at shielding my eyes from the harsh sunlight. I have the gold-tinted shades that I chose to match my coloring and the gold jewelry that I always wear (us Italians really do love our gold).

Based on my experience, Ray-Ban sunglasses are worth the investment. I’ve had my pair for the last 13 years, and aside from a few small nicks, they still look brand new. But for those who don’t want to splurge, there’s this affordable Amazon-loved pair from the brand Pro Acme that’ll give you that same "Top Gun" feel.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

16 Tips To Book Affordable USA To India Flights

F lying in a plane is the quickest way to travel, but it can be pricey. Sometimes, it costs a lot of money and can be tough on your wallet. However, flying is usually the easiest option when you really need to go somewhere fast. Booking USA to India flights is a bit like learning a new skill. If you want to fly without spending too much money, you must pick up some tricks. Here are the best 16 tips for finding cheap flights from the USA to India.

• Try To Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates

If you can be a little flexible when you travel, try looking at flights for dates that are just a day or two earlier or later than your original plan. You might find a cheaper option that’s very close to your previous intended travel dates.

• Go For Incognito Mode

When you search for flights while you’re signed in, the system might start showing you notifications and higher prices. This happens because the prices can go up if you keep searching for the same thing. To avoid this, try using the private browsing mode (incognito mode) when you’re looking for cheap flights to India from USA.

• Join Frequent Flyer Programs

When you book USA to India flights , you can benefit from loyalty programs. Sign up for these programs with airlines to earn points and rewards. Every time you fly with them or use their services, you gather points. Later on, you can use these points to get discounts on flight tickets or other per

• Consider Where You Want to Go

Here’s the best trick to find cheap flights, especially if you want to discover new places. Use a search engine to find attractions that are budget-friendly & plan your travel around that. It helps you visit your favourite places without spending too much, which is perfect for satisfying your desire to explore.

• Get Help from Travel Agents

Think about using travel agents or agencies when you’re booking your flight to India. These are people who are really good at finding the best travel choices for you. They have access to special deals that you might not come across on your own.

• Snag Student and Senior Citizen Discounts

Some airlines give discounts to students and senior citizens on air ticket prices. Even though these discounts might not be huge, usually around 8-10%, they can still save you some money. If you’re travelling with your children or parents, you can also check if there are extra discounts available.

• Delete Your Cookies

Cookies are bits of data that remember what you’ve searched for online. Travel companies and airlines use this info to decide on prices. Deleting your cookies means you’re starting again from scratch, so you won’t see higher prices based on your past searches.

• Compare Flight Prices Before You Buy

Make sure to look at prices from different airlines before you make a decision. Once you’ve looked at all of them, you can pick the flight tickets that fit your budget the best and help you save big.

• Consider Budget or Local Airlines

Sometimes, local airlines don’t show up when you search online, especially for places that aren’t as well-known or far away. Spend some time searching for these local airlines on Google. When you find them, check for good deals so you can book flights without paying too much.

• Opt For Non-Refundable Air Tickets 

Usually, tickets you can’t get your money back for are cheaper than the ones you can. If you’re sure about when and where you’re travelling, it’s smart to choose non-refundable air tickets. That way, you can save some cash on your flight.

• Consider Booking Connecting Flights

If you have more time, think about booking a flight with layovers. It can be a cheaper choice. Search engines let you choose flights with a certain number of stops. Consider booking them and enjoy big savings. 

• Sign Up For Fare Alert Notifications 

When you’re looking at different airline websites, make sure to set up alerts for prices. These alerts will tell you when there are good deals available before they’re gone. Also, follow budget airlines on social media. They often share new deals and offers, so you’ll always know what’s happening.

• Use Special Debit & Credit Cards Offers

Some offers are made just for people who use debit or credit cards. For example, if you have a card from a certain bank, search for a flight ticket with that bank’s name on Google. You’ll probably find a page on the bank’s website or flight booking sites with special codes for more discounts.

• Use A Digital Wallet For Extra Discounts

If you have money in a digital wallet, you can use it to get an extra discount when you buy your flight tickets to India. This can help you save even more on your travel costs and spend that money to explore new things during your trip.

•  Reserve Your Plane Tickets Early

Try to book your flight tickets between 30 to 90 days before your trip. A study found that the cheapest prices for flights were usually available around 57 days before you fly. They checked prices for different flights inside the country and saw a trend.

• Choose To Take Red-Eye Flights

Think about taking flights at strange hours if it works for your trip. Flights late at night or red-eye flights can sometimes cost less. This could be a good idea for people travelling alone who don’t have a specific time they need to get to their destination.

While you’re planning, remember these tips for getting the best flight deals mentioned above. That way, you can enjoy every moment of your journey without stressing about ticket prices.

When you’re getting ready for a trip, one important thing to think about is your flight tickets. That’s where MyTicketsToIndia can help – they know a lot about travel and can help you find good deals on affordable flight tickets.

Email ID: [email protected]

Telephone: +1-585-910-2929

Organisation: My Tickets To India

Website: https://www.myticketstoindia.com/

Blog: https://www.myticketstoindia.com/blog

Travel News: https://www.myticketstoindia.com/travel-news/

Location: Aagman Relan MBR, 3422 Old Capitol Trail Suite 700 Wilmington, DE 19808 – United States

India on a budget: 14 ways to get the best experience for less

Dec 20, 2023 • 11 min read

From buying street food to traveling around on the cheap, these top tips can help your money go further in India © Bhupi / Getty Images

India is heaven for budget travelers. Few places on earth offer quite so many rewarding travel experiences for such a pocket friendly price, particularly if you travel in cheaper classes on buses and trains and stay in budget hotels or hostels.

When planning a budget trip to India , remember that cost and comfort are closely linked. Traveling in unreserved train carriages can be extremely cheap, but seats are hard benches, there’s no air-conditioning and carriages can be overcrowded. It’s better to think of things in terms of value – paying more to travel in an air-con or sleeper-class train carriage will bring much more comfort, at a price that is probably still less than you’d pay for a similar service elsewhere. 

One of the best things about travel in India is how much control you have over your budget. If funds are tight, you can save on accommodation by skipping air-conditioning, an en-suite bathroom or a view. If cities are burning through your budget, just head to the countryside for more manageable prices. Plenty of travelers scrimp and save on some stages of their trip to allow for splurges such as lavish banquet meals and stays in the former palaces of maharajas.  

However you like to travel, here are our top tips for getting the best out of India on a budget.

Travel at the cheapest time of year

When planning a trip to India, always consider the places you want to visit and what the weather will be like when you get here. The cooler, dry winter from November to March is the most expensive and popular time to visit , coinciding with the best weather for sightseeing. The rainy monsoon season from June to September sees smaller crowds and lower prices through most of the country, except in places like  Ladakh , where the peak season coincides with the months when snow recedes from the mountain passes.   

April is often the cheapest time to find flights, but the temperature can soar above 32°C (90°F) in popular destinations such as Rajasthan , Tamil Nadu , Kerala  and Goa , making travel uncomfortable. Note that many beach resorts close during the rainy season, while some mountain areas are impassable in winter, as snow blocks roads through the mountains. 

Plan around festivals 

Always keep an eye on the festival calendar . Major festivals – like Durga Puja in Bengal – can see vast movements of people, sending prices for accommodation and transport rocketing skywards. The Indian government has a calendar of the year's gazetted government holidays , but local religious festivals can also draw huge crowds. If you are specifically traveling to see a festival, book well ahead to secure transport and accommodation for a reasonable price.

Travel overnight to save on accommodation

One of the smartest ways to save money is to travel by overnight sleeper train, saving the cost of a hotel without eating into your precious sightseeing time. First class is comfortable but expensive, and you’ll be cocooned away from other travelers; traveling in air-con two-tier or three-tier carriages, or fan-cooled sleeper carriages is much cheaper.

On premium trains such as the Duronto, Shatabdi and Rajdhani services, the cost of dinner and breakfast is included in the price of a ticket. On other services, you can buy inexpensive packed meals and snacks from vendors on board or on station platforms. 

Traveling by night bus will also save you the cost of a hotel room, but many services have loud music or DVD movie screenings, and some drivers take advantage of the quieter roads to drive dangerously fast.

Book ahead for trains at busy times

It might sound obvious, but the further in advance you make reservations the less you’ll pay for your train ticket. Reservations for Indian Railways open 120 days before departure, and seats in desirable classes can fill up fast, pushing late-bookers into more expensive (or unreserved and less comfortable) seats. The easiest way to reserve seats is via online booking sites such as 12GoAsia ; if you’re already in India, book in person at the station. 

Consider the type of train you travel on too. Seats on newer Duronto and Vande Bharat trains cost more than the equivalent seat on other trains as these services are faster and stop at fewer stations. Express and Mail trains are slower and stop frequently, with fewer on-board services, but much lower fares. For a full guide to India’s train classes and types, check in with the Man in Seat 61 .

Go off the beaten track

If you travel to any of India’s megacities – particularly Mumbai – you’ll pay premium prices for rooms, food and drinks. It’s worth considering alternative, less-visited hubs, where similar travel experiences can be had for lower prices. Hyderabad , for example, is home to some of the country’s best biryani restaurants, bazaars, museums and Islamic architecture, but the cost of living is significantly lower than in Mumbai or Delhi (unless you stay in the city’s lavish Falaknuma Palace hotel ).   

Instead of visiting the crowded temples at Ellora and Ajanta in Maharashtra , consider exploring the monuments at Hampi , Badami and Aihole in Karnataka, which see fewer tourists on package tours and offer cheaper accommodation nearby. Instead of battling for a quiet spot on Goa’s packed beaches, think about visiting Tamil Nadu’s Puducherry with its promenades, surfing and beach yoga.

Check into one of India’s appealing hostels

Budget accommodations are easy to find in India. Plenty of budget hotels and guesthouses can be booked via websites such as MakeMyTrip and Agoda , but big cities can still be pricey and staying in the cheapest hotels can sometimes mean compromising on comfort, hygiene and, on some occasions, security. For a happy balance between low prices and comfortable facilities, seek out India’s new wave of hostels, where bargain beds come with bonus opportunities to plug into the traveler grapevine. 

Offering comfy mixed dorms, female-only dorms and private rooms, the Zostel hostel group has opened properties across the country, from Jaipur and Delhi to Aurangabad and Alleppey, with a bed costing from as little as Rs 600 a night with a shared bathroom, free wi-fi and breakfast included. The Hosteller is another expanding chain, with hostels from Agra to Udaipur.

Ask for a discount

Many hotels in India offer seasonal prices, with significant discounts available at quieter times of year. If you’re traveling in the off-season, it’s always worth asking at reception to see if there’s a discount on offer, whether this means a bargain price or a tempting saving on a superior class of room. This also applies at five-star properties – most offer dynamic pricing on room rates through their websites. You may get an even bigger saving by asking on the day at the reception; try early in the evening, when staff may accept a lower price to fill remaining empty rooms. 

Haggle (just don’t overdo it)

Part of the fun of trawling India’s mesmerizing markets and bazaars is negotiating with vendors to score a good price. Haggling is a normal part of life for locals as well as foreigners, but remember that it’s not a battle. The first price quoted may be too high, so counter with a lower offer and see how the vendor responds – with some give and take, you should reach a price you can both agree on. 

Haggling should never be a confrontational process. If the seller’s final price is still too high, politely decline and try another vendor. There’s little point haggling over small amounts of money; you might pay slightly more than the going rate, but vendors are often poorly paid, and that extra Rs 20 could make a big difference to someone with a family to feed.

Agree a fare before you set off

If you can’t find a prepaid taxi stand, you’ll need to agree on a fare with the driver. While most taxis and autorickshaws have meters, drivers are sometimes reluctant to use them, so negotiate a fare or clarify that you'll pay "by the meter" before the journey starts. For cycle rickshaws, you’ll always have to agree on a fare, but remember that rickshaw-walas are poorly paid for a physically demanding job – paying a few rupees more than the going rate likely won’t make a big difference to your budget, but it will give a driver something extra to take home.

Purify your own water 

While bottles of water may seem cheap, your water bill will soon mount up if you reach for a fresh bottle every time you feel thirsty (you’ll also create a LOT of unnecessary plastic waste). India’s tap water is not safe to drink, but most hotels will let you fill your water bottle from their purified water supply for free. Alternatively,  you can purify water as you go using a travel water filter or chlorine purification tablets. If you go trekking, purifying water as you go will save both weight and waste, helping to keep the mountains free from plastic rubbish.

Share a car and driver for maximum freedom

Hiring a car or 4WD with a driver for the day (or for multiple days) can be a great way to get off the beaten path in India and see the places in between the famous stops. Split between several people, it can also work out cheaper than joining an organized tour. Ask other travelers at budget hotels, hostels and popular cafes and restaurants to see if anyone wants to join you on a trip, then discuss an itinerary. Drivers and vehicles can be found at taxi and 4WD stands in many towns; many drivers’ collectives display printed lists of prices for local excursions.   

Feast on street food

Food varies wildly from one state to another in India and the best way to get a feel for the local specialties is to eat on the streets. It’s also a great way to keep a lid on costs. Seek out street food vendors in bazaars, office districts and around transport hubs, and you'll find budget friendly options like freshly stuffed pani puri (filled crispy dough balls) and deep-fried pakoras (vegetable fritters). 

Vendors with long lines of eager diners can usually be relied upon for hygiene and quality. If you feel nervous about eating street food, seek out vegetarian dishes, as there’s less chance of picking up a bug. Treats cooked at high heat and made on demand, such as vada pav (batter-fried potato balls served in a bun) and dosas (rice and lentil pancakes), are usually a safe option. Don’t be afraid to ask around for street food recommendations; locals are more than happy to point visitors towards their favorite roaming food carts and hole-in-the-wall vendors.

Reduce your costs when using local transport 

The same advice applies to local transport. When traveling from the airport into the city, ask if anyone wants to share a ride at the baggage carousel. To save money while exploring downtown, rideshares are increasingly popular in major cities, and you’ll have the added bonus of knowing that you’re paying the going rate, rather than an elevated "tourist price." Rideshares can be summoned via the Uber, Ola, Lyft and Bla Bla Car apps.  

Another good way to save is to use dedicated prepaid stands for taxis and autorickshaws at airports and train and bus stations. There’ll normally be a desk or booth where you can book a ride for a fixed rate – staff will give you a receipt with the registration number of your vehicle, which you then hand over to the driver.

Save money on calls and browsing

Few countries have favorable roaming deals with India, so the cost of using your home phone for texts, calls and getting online can soon mount up. Stay in touch for less by buying a local prepaid SIM card from a local mobile phone company such as Jio , Airtel or Vi . Most companies offer data packages, so you browse on the move as well as make calls. Make sure your phone isn’t locked to your home network, or pick up an inexpensive phone locally. 

If you’re flying into a major city such as Delhi or Mumbai , you can buy a SIM card at the airport. Alternatively, buy a local SIM from a phone shop – you’ll need a couple of passport photographs, a local address and the contact details of someone who can vouch for you (which the phone office may be able to provide). It’s a slow and sometimes bureaucratic process, and you may need to wait up to 24 hours for your SIM to be activated. However, it does make transport and online bookings (including train tickets) considerably easier.  

Daily costs

• Hostel room: from ₹400
• Room in a budget hotel: ₹500 to ₹1500
• Short autorickshaw ride: from ₹100
• Half-day bus ride: around ₹500
• Cost of a vegetarian thali meal: from ₹100
• Dinner in an upmarket restaurant: from ₹1500
• Bottle of beer: around ₹150
• Average daily cost: ₹3000 to ₹30,000

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2023

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Feb 22, 2024 • 5 min read

The Maldives is not a cheap place to visit, but there are ways to make your money stretch further. Here are our top budget tips.

Jan 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 8 min read

Aug 16, 2022 • 7 min read

Mar 28, 2022 • 7 min read

Feb 10, 2020 • 8 min read

Jan 29, 2020 • 9 min read

Oct 28, 2019 • 19 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 13 min read

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top music concerts worth travelling for in 2024: The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, and more

TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Created : Apr 17, 2024, 00:00 IST

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that 2024 promises an exceptional lineup of concerts that invite enthusiasts to plan unforgettable journeys. With anticipation building, music lovers are eager to pack their bags and experience some of the most highly anticipated and iconic performances spanning various genres and destinations worldwide. You can still make plans to take part in some of these concerts, which are worth travelling for this year.

If you are also a music lover, bookmark this, and book your tickets now.

Rod Stewart

During an interview with People Magazine in 2023, Stewart talked about his One final tour, expressing, "I believe this will mark the final opportunity to delve into the rock 'n' roll world as I aim to transition to swing music and the Great American SongBook." So, if you are his fan, don't miss your chance to witness the live performance of this Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and legendary Grammy winner.

Before concluding his long standing Las Vegas residency this summer, he will entertain audiences across the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Tour: 2024 Tour (February to August)

Olivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo is heading out on a tour to promote her second studio album, "GUTS." This tour will feature shows across North America and Europe, with additional performances by The Breeders, Chappell Roan, Remi Wolf, and PinkPantheress as opening acts.

Tour: Guts World Tour: (February – August 2024)

The Rolling Stones

Fans both in the city and beyond are buzzing with anticipation for The Rolling Stones' highly anticipated concert in Houston. Set to unfold at one of the city's premier music venues, this long-awaited event guarantees a night filled with unforgettable rock 'n' roll tunes and iconic performances. The band's Houston show is anticipated to be a standout moment of their tour, as enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to see Mick Jagger, Charlie Watts, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood gracing the stage once more.

Tour: The Hackney Diamonds Tour (April 28 to July)

Nikki Minaj

Known for her flamboyant outfits and rapid-fire rap anthems, this hip-hop sensation is set to head on a tour spanning coast to coast and across the Atlantic to Europe. Expect an electrifying spectacle featuring fresh singles from her fifth album, "Pink Friday 2," alongside a plethora of chart-topping hits like Super Bass, Anaconda, and Starships.

Tour: Pink Friday 2 World Tour (March - June)

Coldplay's live performances are celebrated for their infectious enthusiasm and sense of unity, largely due to frontman Chris Martin's charm and charisma. Each song, ranging from heartfelt ballads to exhilarating sing-alongs, is delivered with sincere emotion, which instantly creates a connection with fans that is unparalleled.

At their Lyon concert, attendees can anticipate a thoughtfully crafted playlist that will showcase the band's vast catalogue, seamlessly blending fan favourites with fresh tracks from their forthcoming album.

Tour date: June 22 - 25

Jonas Brothers

Currently on their 12th concert tour, The Jonas Brothers, consisting of Kevin Jonas, Nick Jonas, and Joe Jonas, will travel through three continents. This tour will feature songs from five distinct albums, such as Happiness Begins, The Album, and A Little Bit Longer.

Tour: The Tour (August 2023 - June 2024)

Visual Stories

Scenic train journeys in Indian hill destinations

10 cities in India struggling with overtourism

Swiss summers: 10 fun-filled experiences to have in Switzerland

10 best adventure sports in India and where to experience them

10 busiest airports in the world; Delhi Airport also in the list

Ram Navmi special: 8 Ram temples to visit in India

IPL fever in Ahmedabad: Take out time for these unique experiences

Google’s top 10 summer-perfect destinations for 2024

7 stunning waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh

India's most offbeat hill stations for cool summer getaways

Join Us On Facebook Close

Poll of the day, which of these is one of earth's oldest geographical feature, comments (0).

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration, trending stories.

World’s most terrifying attractions: Reserved only for the brave hearts!

• Vietnam: Understanding the wonders of the great Mekong River Delta

• Jim Corbett National Park: The historical capital of the tiger kingdom

Journey through the enigmatic Pinnacles, one of the world's weirdest landscapes

UP: Sky glass walk, like Lord Rama's bow and arrow, to open in Chitrakoot

World Heritage Day 2024: India’s 5 remarkable sites that draw millions every year

Doha’s Hamad International Airport crowned as the best airport in the world

Pilgrimage destinations in India for the summer

From around the web, popular galleries.

8 coolest hill stations in India accessible via direct flights!

Follow us on

Latest news.

• Saudi Arabia: Deserts around Mecca and Medina are turning green due to heavy rainfall

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that 2024 promises an exceptional lineup of concerts that invite enthusiasts to plan unforgettable journeys. With anticipation building, music lovers are eager to pa...

Musk to meet Modi in India; sources say announcement on investment likely

• Medium Text

• Company Tata Motors Ltd Follow
• Company Tesla Inc Follow

Stay up to date with the latest news, trends and innovations that are driving the global automotive industry with the Reuters Auto File newsletter. Sign up here.

Reporting by Aditya Kalra and Aditi Shah; additional reporting by Aftab Ahmed ,Shivangi Acharya and Urvi Dugar; editing by Jason Neely, Mark Potter and Maju Samuel

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Aditya Kalra is the Company News Editor for Reuters in India, overseeing business coverage and reporting stories on some of the world's biggest companies. He joined Reuters in 2008 and has in recent years written stories on challenges and strategies of a wide array of companies -- from Amazon, Google and Walmart to Xiaomi, Starbucks and Reliance. He also extensively works on deeply-reported and investigative business stories.

Business Chevron

Netflix to stop reporting subscriber tally as streaming wars cool

Netflix on Thursday unexpectedly announced that it will stop reporting subscriber numbers each quarter, a decision seen as a sign that years of customer gains in the streaming wars are coming to an end.