Planning a trip to India can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With its vast diversity of cultures, landscapes, and experiences, India offers something for every type of traveler.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started on planning your adventure, from picking the best time to visit to understanding the local customs.
When to Visit India
The high season and the most popular time to visit is october- march.
During the rest of the year, the rainy monsoon season and/or hot summers require planning around more specific destinations.
Visa Requirements
Most travelers will need a visa to be settled before arrival, and the easiest option is the e-Visa issued online for various time periods. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/
The official Indian website can sometimes have issues with file uploads, but third-party services can handle the process for a small fee.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions
There are no mandatory vaccinations for visiting India, but you can consult your doctor for any specific recommendations before your trip.
Most shelf medication will be available in india under different names, so packing your usual brand may be more convenient.
Budget Planning
India accommodates all types of travelers.
- Budget travelers: $15–$30 per day.
- Mid-range travelers: $35–$70 per day.
- Luxury travelers: $150+ per day.
Costs vary depending on the region, with cities and tourist spots typically being more expensive than rural areas.
Where should I visit in India?
The key to planning your ideal trip is first knowing what attracts you to experience in india. Then researching and adjusting your itinerary to the places you found interesting
Whether you want to explore ancient temples and UNESCO sites, spot wildlife in sanctuaries, relax in beach resorts, or seek spiritual retreats in ashrams and yoga schools, India has it all. be sure to adjust your plan according to the weather, as different regions are best visited at different times of the year.
Northern Region: Himalayan Mountains & Spirituality
Home to snow-capped peaks and spiritual hubs like Dharamshala, Manali Kasol,kashmir, and Leh, this region is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Explore Tibetan monasteries, trek through the valleys, or unwind in serene mountain towns.
Northern Plains: Cultural Capitals and Ancient History
The aladdin part of India. From The majestic Taj Mahal in Agra, Rajasthan’s royal palaces and forts, or the rich culture inVaranasi The plains are a must-see.
Northeast India: Untouched Beauty and Tribal Culture
Places like Sikkim and Meghalaya are perfect for those looking to step off the beaten path and explore a different kind of india. The Northeast is India’s most unexplored gem, With wild jungles and welcoming culture.
Southern Region: Beaches and Backwaters
The South offers tropical beaches, lush backwaters, and a relaxed pace of life. Visit Goa for its beaches, Kerala for its serene backwaters, and Tamil Nadu for its cultural richness. Perfect for unwinding or diving into history.
Transportation Options
India offers a variety of transportation options:
- Domestic Flights: Many domestic airports connect major cities.
- Trains: Affordable and popular, with sleeper options for overnight journeys.prior Booking is needed for at least 1 week in advance. Best land transportations for long distances!
- Buses: Sleeper buses are available for long-distance travel alongside seated public buses. Use the redbud app.
- Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws: Common for short and long distances, with Uber available in most cities.
- Scooter Rentals: Convenient in smaller towns.
Booking can be done through the many travel agents every destination has or independently online.
Handling Money and Payments
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR), with approximately 1 USD equaling 80-85 INR.
Cash is the primary method of payment, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available but may not always work for foreign cards, so stack up on cash when you find a working one. Carrying US dollars and euros can be useful for exchanges in case of backup.
Tip: Some travel agents and big shop owners can provide cash using your card for a commission fee (around 3%). This service has saved me in the past when ATMs wouldnt read my card. ask around in the tourist shops for this option.
Accommodation Choices
India offers a range of accommodations:
- Hostels: Ideal for budget travelers.
- Guesthouses/Homestays: Provide personal experiences at affordable rates.
- Hotels: From budget to luxury 5-star options.
- Resorts: Offer a premium experience at lower prices compared to other countries.
Booking wise, i usually use booking.com. Most places welcome walk in’s, then the prices might also be negotiable. If you have time and energy, i always recommend walking around and searching for rooms physically, except for big holidays when it gets crowded- then prior booking is more advisable.
Cultural Considerations
India has rich cultural diversity, and being mindful of local customs helps make your trip smoother:
- Dress modestly at religious sites and rural areas.
- Be mindful about when to Remove your shoes, mostly before entering temples or homes.
- Be cautious about wearing flashy jewelry.
- Always ask permission before photographing people.
- Be ready to get stared at! It’s not necessarily a negative thing in Indian culture.
Safety and Scams
While India is generally safe, it’s important to stay alert. Here are some common scams to watch out for:
- Taxi and Rickshaw Scams: Agree on a fare or insist on using the meter. Use government-approved taxi stands with fixed prices. The price per kilometers for taxies in india is only 20-35 rupees, depending on the terrain, so dont get extremely overcharged
- Heritage Site Pricing: Foreigners often pay more at heritage sites, which is a common practice, not a scam! Carry a student card for discounts.
- Business Opportunities from Strangers: Be cautious when strangers or shopkeepers offer business opportunities or “deals,” such as buying gemstones. Always be skeptical and research before making purchases.
- Don’t trust anyone who calls you “my friend”!
Useful Apps and Resources
Here are a few apps that can make your trip easier:
- Zomato/Swiggy: For discovering restaurants and ordering food.
- Uber/Ola: For reliable ridesharing.
- RedBus: To book bus tickets easily.
- Party Hunt: For finding events and nightlife.
Food Selections
India is amazing for foodies who like to try new things and enjoy well spiced food. One of the most common Indian meals is called thali and would usually include some form of cooked legumes, vegetables or cheese dish, and rice or indian bread.
Eating in an Indian restaurant can also be a cultural experience by itself, and also save a lot of money since Western food is more expensive (and not always available outside tourist centers)
Restaurants are often divided into vegetarian (VEG) and non-vegetarian (NON-VEG). and you’ll notice small color-coded markers on every restaurant entry sign and menu:
- Green Dot: Vegetarian (This includes milk products but excludes eggs).
- Red Dot: Non-vegetarian (May include meat, fish, and eggs).
