Deeply spiritual, highly majestic, and overwhelmingly frenetic, India is a country that has no comparison. Home to a whopping 32 World Heritage sites, India weaves Himalayan hikes, stunning architecture, colonial heritage, religious harmony, and culinary diversity into one fascinating destination. Unsurprisingly, the iconic Taj Mahal tops nearly all India itineraries, as do the ancient forts and palaces of Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi—the cities that comprise the Golden Triangle. Stray from the beaten path, and you'll see that India offers a wealth of wonders: Varanasi, split by the revered Ganges River, is considered one of the most fascinating places on earth; the white-sand beaches of Goa continue to allure free-spirited travelers; in Kerala, glistening backwaters and emerald tea plantations abound; and in Rajasthan, fairy-tale palaces are juxtaposed with rare wildlife. Multiday tours are a safe and hassle-free way to travel around India, with almost all covering the highlights of the Golden Triangle. Meanwhile, full-day sightseeing tours of Mumbai mean you can experience the madness and magic of the city even if you're short on time. Time your visit to India with one of the country's numerous Hindu celebrations for an unforgettable cultural experience—top picks include Holi festival, known as the Festival of Colors; and Diwali, when the country erupts into fireworks and candlelight.
With its vast array of climates, India is a year-round destination, but not every region is ideal in every season. Popular to visit areas in North India are at their most comfortable from late September until March, when the weather is at its coolest and driest. And parts of Northern India can get chillingly cold in the winter, particularly in the Himalayan foothill states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
India has one of the world’s largest train networks, and if you have the time, traveling by train is the best way to explore the country. Do note that the higher-elevation areas in India’s northernmost states are only accessible by taxi or car. If you prefer flying, there are plenty of budget carriers connecting India’s cities, and traveling by plane is generally quick and easy. Major cities have lots of local transportation options, from cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) to taxis.
You’ll find a variety of climates in India, from snowy mountains to dry deserts, tropical jungles, and seemingly everything in between. It’s always wise to pack a few warm layers, especially if you’re visiting the northern reaches of the country. On the same token, a few lightweight long-sleeve shirts are a good idea both for keeping you warm on cool evenings and for protecting you from the heat of the sun on hotter days.
Local Currency Indian Rupee (₹) | Time Zone IST (UTC +5) | Country Code +91 | Language(s) Gujarati | Attractions 335 | Tours 13,959 | Reviews 114,950 |
India is best known for its architectural and historic attractions, including the Taj Mahal, the country’s best-known sight. India is also well-known for its wide range of cultural sights, from the palaces and forts of Rajasthan to the ancient temples found across South India.
...MoreWhile three weeks to a month is ideal for a trip to India, you’ll need at least 10 days to even scratch the surface. With such little time, you’re best off confining yourself to one region. The Golden Triangle, which encompasses Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra—home of the Taj Mahal—is the best option.
...MoreIndia’s three best-known tourist attractions are the Taj Mahal in Agra and the cities of Jaipur and Delhi, which are collectively known as the Golden Triangle. Other equally worthwhile tourist attractions include the Kerala backwaters in South India, the vibrant city of Mumbai, and the Portuguese-influenced coastal state of Goa.
...MoreMust-see attractions in India include the Taj Mahal, the colorful desert state of Rajasthan, and the cities of Mumbai and Delhi. If you’re a fan of yoga, head to Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. Beach lovers will want to make a beeline to Goa to soak up the sun.
...MoreIndia has a huge variety of foods worth trying, from rich Mughlai cuisine dominated by meaty stews to lighter South Indian fare such as crepe-like dosas and steamed rice and lentil cakes known as idlis. Don’t miss the street food, but go with a local to help you identify the safest spots to eat.
...MoreYes, India is generally a safe country. Violent crime against tourists remains low, though scams and overcharging are common. The biggest safety risks relate to health, as food- and water-borne illness is common—it’s important to eat in hygienic spots and drink only bottled or filtered water.
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