About India
India is a vast and diverse South Asian nation offering ancient temples, vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and the majestic Himalayas. From the iconic Taj Mahal to spiritual Varanasi and tropical Kerala backwaters, India delivers unforgettable experiences across its 28 states and 8 union territories.
Quick Overview
Capital: New Delhi
Largest City: Mumbai
Population: 1.44 billion
Languages: Hindi, English, Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil, Urdu, Gujarati
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone: UTC+5:30 (India Standard Time)
Explore India by Topic
Best Places to Visit in India
Discover the top 31 must-see destinations in India, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Taj Mahal
The world's most famous monument to love, this white marble mausoleum was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The...
Red Fort
This massive red sandstone fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The sprawling complex includes palaces, audience halls, and...
Hawa Mahal
The iconic Palace of Winds features 953 small windows (jharokhas) that allowed royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen. The pink sandstone facade...
Golden Temple
The holiest shrine of Sikhism, this stunning gold-plated temple sits in the middle of a sacred pool. The temple welcomes visitors of all faiths and...
Gateway of India
This iconic 26-meter high arch monument was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. Located on the waterfront...
Mysore Palace
This Indo-Saracenic palace is one of India's most magnificent royal residences, featuring intricate carvings, stained glass ceilings, and opulent halls. The palace is illuminated with...
Amber Fort
This hilltop fort palace showcases a stunning blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture with its ornate mirror work, intricate frescoes, and sprawling courtyards. The elephant...
Qutub Minar
This 73-meter tall victory tower is the tallest brick minaret in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex includes ancient ruins, the...
Recommended Itineraries for India
Plan your perfect India trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day India Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in India, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic India
- Days 1-2: India city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate India
- Days 1-3: India comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to India, departure
Where to Stay in India
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, India offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($25-$40)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($60-$100)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($200-$500+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Taj Mahal Palace
This iconic heritage hotel overlooks the Gateway of India and Arabian Sea. Built in 1903, it combines old-world charm with...
Hotel Surya
Well-located hotel in Varanasi offering clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The rooftop restaurant provides views of the Ganges and...
Smyle Inn
Clean, no-frills accommodation in Delhi's Paharganj area. Basic rooms with essential amenities, perfect for backpackers exploring Old Delhi and nearby...
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Every room offers unobstructed views of the Taj Mahal from just 600 meters away. This luxury property features Mughal-inspired architecture,...
Where to Eat in India
Discover the culinary delights of India, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Bukhara
Legendary restaurant at ITC Maurya serving rustic North-West Frontier cuisine. Famous for its dal bukhara and tandoori dishes, frequented by...
Karim's
Historic restaurant established in 1913 near Jama Masjid, famous for its mutton dishes and authentic Mughlai flavors. A must-visit for...
Haldiram's
Popular chain serving vegetarian Indian snacks, sweets, and meals. Great for trying chaat, samosas, and traditional sweets at budget prices.
Paranthe Wali Gali
Narrow lane in Old Delhi famous for paratha shops operating since the 1870s. Try various stuffed parathas from multiple small...
Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters
Specialty coffee roaster with cafes serving single-origin Indian coffee. Modern minimalist design with excellent espresso-based drinks.
Indian Accent
Award-winning restaurant reinventing Indian cuisine with global ingredients and innovative techniques. Set in a beautiful manor with exceptional presentation and...
Getting Around India
Budget Breakdown for India
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8-$15 (hostels, budget guesthouses) | $30-$50 (mid-range hotels, Airbnb) | $120-$300+ (luxury hotels, heritage properties, palace hotels) |
| Food (per day) | $8-$12 (street food, local restaurants, self-catering) | $18-$25 (mix of local and tourist restaurants, some cafes) | $50-$100 (fine dining, hotel restaurants, high-end cafes) |
| Transportation | $3-$5 (local buses, metro, auto-rickshaws) | $8-$12 (Uber/Ola, some auto-rickshaws, occasional trains) | $25-$80 (private car with driver, domestic flights) |
| Activities | $5-$8 (free temples, cheap entry fees, walking tours) | $15-$20 (paid attractions, guides, some experiences) | $50-$120 (private guides, exclusive experiences, spa treatments) |
| Daily Total | $25-$40 | $60-$100 | $200-$500+ |
Best Time to Visit India
Best Season: October to March (cool and dry)
Peak Season: October to March (cool and dry)
Avoid: April to September (hot and monsoon season)
Essential Travel Tips for India
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal security precautions in most of India. Avoid Jammu and Kashmir (except Union Territory administration areas), Manipur, and areas near the Pakistan border. The UK Foreign Office and US State Department advise against non-essential travel to certain northeastern states and border regions.
Register with your country's embassy or consulate upon arrival for emergency contact.
Women should avoid traveling alone at night; use women-only compartments on trains and metros.
Keep valuables, passports, and cash in a money belt or hotel safe; avoid displaying expensive jewelry.
Only use prepaid registered taxis, Ola, or Uber — avoid unmarked vehicles or touts at airports.
Drink only sealed bottled water; avoid ice in drinks and raw salads from street stalls.
Be vigilant in crowded tourist sites like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort for pickpockets and bag snatchers.
Research required vaccinations (typhoid, hepatitis A/B, rabies) and carry antimalarial medication for rural areas.
Respect local dress codes; cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples, mosques, and shrines.
Beware of common scams: gem investment schemes, fake tour operators, and closed-monument diversions.
Air quality in Delhi can reach hazardous levels October to February; carry an N95 mask.
Carry a paper copy of your visa, passport, and travel insurance details in case of theft.
Negotiate auto-rickshaw and taxi fares before boarding or insist on the meter to avoid overcharging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit India?
The best time to visit India is October to March (cool and dry). April to September (hot and monsoon season) may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for India?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for India for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in India?
For a comprehensive India experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is India expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $25-$40 per day, mid-range $60-$100, and luxury $200-$500+.