An enormous country with a population of over 1.4 billion people, India is a colorful land with landscapes as diverse as the towering Himalayas to the jungle reserves in the north, the world’s biggest mangrove forests, and the tranquil palm-fringed beaches of Kerala. You could spend a year exploring India and still miss half of it.
Named for its pink buildings, Jaipur is renowned for its splendid palaces and historic forts. Stroll through the opulent City Palace, explore the majestic Amber Fort, and marvel at the Hawa Mahal’s intricate architecture. Enjoy unique shopping experiences in the bustling bazaars. Look out for traditional textiles, jewelry, and crafts.
One of the world’s most iconic monuments, the marbled Taj Mahal in Agra is a monument to love built by emperor Shah Jahan for his cherished wife. Often described as a "teardrop on the cheek of time,” the monument’s breathtaking beauty and the love story behind its creation make visiting an unforgettable experience.
Explore India’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. India has over 100 national parks where you can find Bengal tigers in the jungles of Ranthambore or Kanha. The latter was the setting of Rudyard Kipling’s “Jungle Book”. Photograph elephants, leopards, single-horn rhinos, Asiatic lions, and hundreds of bird species in India’s many diverse landscapes. Often parks are close to historic sites and traditional villages allowing you to combine culture and wildlife experiences.
India can overwhelm and enchant in equal measure. Here, every corner reveals something new and unexpected. This is a country with a history that spans thousands of years, as reflected in its ancient cities, fortresses, and temples. Rajasthan, with its opulent palaces and formidable forts, offers a glimpse into India’s royal past. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur are filled with architectural marvels and busy markets.
India’s natural beauty is as diverse as its culture. In the north, the Himalayas boast some of Earth’s most spectacular landscapes, great for hiking, mountaineering, and spiritual retreats. The dramatic mountain scenery, Buddhist monasteries, and unique culture of Ladakh, known as the "Land of High Passes," are legendary. Kerala’s backwaters provide a serene escape, with its network of canals, rivers, and lakes, best explored from traditional houseboats, surrounded by lush tea plantations.
For many travelers, India’s spiritual heritage is a major attraction. Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, is a Hindu sacred site. Experiencing an evening aarti (a Hindu ritual) on the ghats of the Ganges River is a deeply moving experience.
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," a center for yoga, meditation, and spiritual learning. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, the holiest site for Sikhs, is a serene retreat with a community kitchen serving free meals to thousands daily, embodying the spirit of service and devotion.
Visit sacred sites like Varanasi, the holy city on the banks of the Ganges, or Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment. Encounter deep spiritual experiences, and rituals, and a chance to learn about India’s religious traditions.
Savor India’s spicy cuisine. Each region has its distinct flavors and dishes. Enjoy street food and learn how to cook traditional Indian meals.
Expect a relatively conservative culture in India so the dress code tends to run along similar lines. Wear pants or mid-length skirts and dresses. Knees and shoulders should be covered in the more conservative rural areas.
Temperatures may vary extensively depending on the area you visit and the time of year. It is very hot and wet in much of the country between April and October, so most visitors arrive from November to March when the weather is more comfortable.
Choose light and airy clothes, a light jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Pack something smart for fine dining and theater visits. A bathing suit, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen will serve you for beach visits and around the pool.
A lightweight scarf always comes in handy to cover your head and shoulders in temples and visits to other more conservative spaces.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, the vibrant Pink City of Jaipur, and the spiritual city of Varanasi and Rishikesh are essential stops. Explore Kerala's tranquil backwaters, the wildlife of Ranthambore National Park, and Goa's pristine beaches. For adventure, visit the Himalayan beauty of Ladakh, and for history, discover the ancient ruins of Hampi and the romantic lakes of Udaipur.
All travelers need a visa to enter India. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after you depart India. You can usually get an e-visa within three days of applying.
India’s currency is the Indian rupee, one of the world’s oldest continuously used currencies. The Indian rupee is a closed currency so you can’t exchange your currency to the Indian rupee until you’re in the country. There are ATMs in all major cities and at the airport. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are widely accepted by most Indian businesses.
Ensure that your normal vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, and Diphtheria vaccinations are also advised.
