India Travel Guide
Everything you need to know before your trip to India.
About India
India is the world's most populous country and its seventh-largest by area — a subcontinent of 28 states and 8 union territories, more than 20 official languages and thousands of years of continuous history. Within one trip you can stand beneath the Himalayas, wander through Mughal monuments, cruise tropical backwaters and relax on palm-lined beaches.
India is home to more than 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Taj Mahal, the forts of Rajasthan, the temples of Khajuraho and Hampi, and the Western Ghats.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
- October – March (peak season): pleasant, dry weather across most of India — ideal for Rajasthan, the Golden Triangle, Kerala and Goa.
- April – June (summer): hot on the plains; the best time for Himalayan hill stations, Ladakh and Kashmir.
- July – September (monsoon): lush green landscapes, great for Ayurveda in Kerala and the rain-shadow region of Ladakh.
Visa Information
Most visitors need a visa to enter India. Citizens of many countries can apply online for an e-Visa (tourist, business or medical) before travel. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and have two blank pages.
Visa rules change from time to time — always check the latest requirements on the official Government of India visa website before you book. Our team is happy to guide you through the process.
Currency & Money
The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR, ₹). ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, and international credit cards are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants and shops. Carry some cash for markets, small eateries, tips and rural areas.
Exchange money at banks, authorised money changers or your hotel, and keep the receipts.
Customs & Etiquette
- Greet people with a "Namaste" — palms pressed together.
- Dress modestly, especially at religious sites; cover shoulders and knees.
- Remove your shoes before entering temples, mosques and many homes.
- Use your right hand for eating and for giving or receiving things.
- Always ask before photographing people, and respect "no photography" signs.
Health & Safety
- Drink bottled or filtered water and avoid ice from unknown sources.
- Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations before you travel.
- Carry sunscreen, insect repellent and a basic medical kit.
- Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Our 24x7 helpline is available to every guest throughout the trip.
Festivals Calendar
- Holi (Feb/Mar) — the festival of colours, celebrated across North India.
- Hemis Festival (Jun/Jul) — masked dances at Ladakh's largest monastery.
- Onam (Aug/Sep) — Kerala's harvest festival with snake-boat races.
- Durga Puja (Sep/Oct) — spectacular celebrations in Kolkata.
- Diwali (Oct/Nov) — the festival of lights.
- Pushkar Camel Fair (Oct/Nov) — camel trading, music and rituals in Rajasthan.
- Hornbill Festival (Dec) — the tribal cultures of Nagaland.
Festival dates follow the lunar calendar and change each year — ask us for exact dates.
Food & Cuisine
Indian food changes every few hundred kilometres: rich curries and tandoori breads in the north, dosas and coconut-based dishes in the south, fish and sweets in Bengal and the spicy cuisine of Rajasthan. Vegetarian travellers are spoilt for choice.
Let us know about allergies or dietary needs — hotels and restaurants on our tours are happy to adjust spice levels.
Packing Tips
- Light, breathable cotton clothing plus a scarf or shawl for temple visits.
- Warm layers for winter evenings in the north and for hill stations.
- Comfortable walking shoes that slip on and off easily.
- A universal power adapter (India uses Type C, D and M sockets, 230V).
Getting Around
India has an extensive network of domestic flights, one of the world's largest railway systems and good highways connecting major cities. On our tours you travel by private air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, combined with trains and flights for longer distances.
Shopping in India
Look out for hand-woven silks and pashminas, block-printed textiles, carpets, marble inlay from Agra, gemstones from Jaipur, spices from Kerala and tea from Darjeeling and Assam. Bargaining is normal at markets but not in fixed-price shops.
Useful Phrases (Hindi)
- Namaste — Hello
- Dhanyavaad / Shukriya — Thank you
- Haan / Nahin — Yes / No
- Kitne ka hai? — How much is it?
- Paani — Water
- Bahut accha! — Very good!