India – Destination Guide
India is a sensory explosion of color, culture, and contrast – where ancient temples and chaotic bazaars sit alongside palaces, beaches, and the Himalayas. With more than a billion people, dozens of languages, and centuries of history, India offers an experience like no other. Whether you’re chasing tigers in national parks, exploring sacred cities, or unwinding on a tropical beach – India is intense, unforgettable, and deeply rewarding.
🕌 Regions to Explore
🛕 Rajasthan
The land of maharajas, desert forts, and royal palaces.
- Wander through the Pink City of Jaipur
- Visit Udaipur’s lakes and whitewashed palaces
- Explore the golden sands of Jaisalmer and its desert camps
🧘♂️ Rishikesh & Varanasi
Sacred towns along the holy Ganges River.
- Join yoga or meditation retreats in Rishikesh
- Witness spiritual rituals (aarti) at sunrise and sunset in Varanasi
- Take a boat ride past ghats and cremation ceremonies
🏔️ Himachal Pradesh & Ladakh
India’s Himalayan north – perfect for adventure and serenity.
- Trek in the Parvati or Spiti valleys
- Visit remote monasteries and alpine lakes
- Explore Leh and the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh
🏝️ Goa & Kerala
Tropical southern escapes with beaches, backwaters, and spice plantations.
- Relax on Goa’s beaches or party in coastal villages
- Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey in a houseboat
- Explore tea plantations and Ayurvedic wellness retreats
🏙️ Delhi, Agra & Mumbai
Vibrant cities that blend ancient history with modern chaos.
- See the Taj Mahal in Agra
- Explore Delhi’s Red Fort, markets, and street food
- Experience Mumbai’s colonial architecture and Bollywood glam
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
October – March
- Pleasant weather across most regions
- Ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and festivals
- Avoid the heat and monsoon rains
✈️ Major Airports
- Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) – Delhi
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) – Mumbai
- Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) – Bangalore
- Cochin International Airport (COK) – For Kerala
- Goa International Airport (GOI) – For beach regions
🚙 Getting Around
- Trains are scenic and extensive – book via IRCTC or Cleartrip
- Domestic flights are cheap and save time across long distances
- Taxis and tuk-tuks common in cities – use Uber or Ola apps
- Private drivers are affordable for multi-day routes
📱 SIM Cards & eSIMs
- Main providers: Jio, Airtel, Vi
- Buy a SIM at the airport with passport and visa copy
- Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.
🛂 Visas
- Most nationalities require an e-Visa before arrival
- Apply online via the official government site: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Visa types include tourist, business, and medical
💬 Language
- Hindi and English are widely spoken
- Many regional languages depending on state – e.g., Tamil, Bengali, Punjabi
💰 Currency
- Indian Rupee (INR)
- ATMs are common, especially in cities
- Credit cards accepted in mid-range and upscale hotels/restaurants
🙏 Etiquette
- Dress modestly, especially at temples and in rural areas
- Remove shoes before entering homes and religious sites
- Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items
- Tipping is expected – 5–10% at restaurants, small tips for guides/drivers
🧷 Safety
- India is generally safe but can be overwhelming for first-timers
- Watch for common scams – especially in tourist hotspots
- Stick to bottled or filtered water
- Solo female travelers should take extra precautions, especially at night
🧳 Practical Info
- Electricity – Plug types C, D, and M; voltage: 230V / 50Hz
- Internet – 4G is widespread in cities and towns; hotel Wi-Fi is common
- Water – Not safe to drink from the tap; always use bottled or filtered water
- Vaccinations – Check if you need Hep A, Typhoid, or Japanese Encephalitis
- Travel insurance – Strongly recommended; include medical, cancellation, and theft
- Packing tip – Bring modest clothing, hand sanitiser, sunscreen, and power adaptors
📍 Why Visit India?
India is an emotional, spiritual, and visual journey – intense, surprising, and completely unique. From Himalayan peaks and sacred rivers to royal palaces and wild jungles, every day offers something unforgettable. Whether you’re here to find peace, adventure, or flavor – India delivers it all with a richness that lingers long after you leave.
