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How to Plan Your First Trip to India 2024/2025

The splendid Taj Mahal, magnificent palaces, colorful religious festivals, and delicious curries all showcase the unique and mysterious charm of India.

Planning a trip to India could be overwhelming due to the abundance of choices for destinations and the complexities of dealing with travel logistics. With this guide, we aim to help you make the most of your time and create your dream trip.

1. Where to Go in India
2. How Many Days to Spend
3. Top 2 Handpicked India Itineraries
4. How Much Does an India Trip Cost?
5. Special Accommodation Experiences in India
6. Best Times to Visit India
7. How to Get to and Around in India

1. Choose Where to Go

India is a vast country with so much to see. For a better understanding, we could divide it into tropical-landscape-filled South India and history-packed North India. According to our previous clients' choices, most of them prefer to visit North India first for its iconic architecture, such as the Taj Mahal.

North India

The Golden Triangle route (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur) serves as the natural starting point of most first visits in North India and even India in general. Following this route, you could discover chaotic Indian city life in its capital, Delhi, encounter the magnificence of the Taj Mahal in Agra, and explore majestic palaces and ancient forts in pink Jaipur.

Beyond the Golden Triangle, you could extend your trip to the following destinations:

For wildlife enthusiasts, you could take a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park . Hop in a jeep, venture into the jungle to see tigers, and sleep under the stars at a tented camp. The park is closed for safaris from July to September though, as it's the rainy season.
The Rajasthan region: If you'd like a heritage tour with a desert experience, don't miss this region. Starting from pink Jaipur, you would discover most-ornately-decorated Junagarh Fort in red Bikaner and take a camel safari in golden Jaisalmer. Then, enjoy a leisurely heritage walk with a family visit in blue Jodhpur and savor a private dinner at the palace on Jag Mandir Island in white Udaipur.
Varanasi: As the spiritual hub of India, Varanasi is a must for history buffs. Immerse yourself in the peaceful Ganges ambiance with a sunrise boat ride, walk along the riverside to explore the ghats and temples, and appreciate the impressive Ganga Aarti ceremony at night.

In addition to the above-mentioned cities, there are yet more hidden gems in the north, such as Amritsar for the Golden Temple and the border ceremony, Shimla for summer retreats and toy trains, and Khajuraho for less well-known temple complexes and their erotic sculptures.

South India

South India is characterized by backwaters, beaches, and colonial history. So, if you prefer a laid-back vacation, which may be particularly suitable for a family with teenagers, South India would offer a more relaxing vibe than visiting the highly-frequented historical gems of the north.

Among the popular destinations in South India, Mumbai is a gateway to learning about Indian culture. Meanwhile, Goa and Kerala are renowned for their relaxing beach destinations and backwaters. On the other hand, Tamil Nadu is a paradise for history lovers.

Mumbai: You could vividly experience the stark wealth disparity in Mumbai by contrasting Asia's largest slums with the high-rise downtown area. Also, discover the Indian film industry and watch a Bollywood dance show at Bollywood.
The Goa region: With picturesque beaches, Goa boasts rich water sports, yoga retreats, and a unique Portuguese colonial history. For those seeking more secluded beaches, head to the southern parts of the region.
The Kerala region: In Kerala, you could admire colonial-style buildings in Kochi, go on a trekking tour in Munnar, discover the spice plantation in Thekkady, cruise the backwaters in Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat, and indulge in some beach time and Ayurvedic rejuvenation in Kovalam.
The Tamil Nadu region: You could experience Tamil Nadu's metropolis, Chennai, admire the spectacular rock sculptures in Pondicherry, and discover iconic temples, such as the tallest temple, Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur, and the grandest Meenakshi Temple in Madurai.

Get some ideas about a classic South India tour : Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

2. Decide How Many Days to Stay

For first-time visits, you're advised to stay for at least 9 days to experience some of the best of India at a comfortable pace. For classic 9-day tours, you could choose to discover India's icons in the north, take a week to see the Golden Triangle cities (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur), and then allocate the remaining 2 days to Varanasi or a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park. Alternatively, if you prefer the south, you could focus on the Kerala region or Tamil Nadu.

A good amount of time for exploring India more deeply is 14 days. Following 1 week in the Golden Triangle, you could spend another week in Rajasthan (Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur) in North India. Or you could delve into the top two regions of South India: Kerala (7 days) and Tamil Nadu (7 days).

You could also gain a comprehensive overview of India from the Golden Triangle in the north (9 days) to Mumbai (2 days) and Goa (3 days) in the south. If you are ambitious and want to see the multiple facets of South Asia in one trip, you could also combine the Golden Triangle of India with neighboring Nepal and Bhutan .

If you have over 2 weeks to explore off-the-beaten-path routes , consider extending your trip by 3 to 7 days in the northernmost region of Ladakh (Leh, Pangong Tso, and the 'Valley of Flowers') for outdoor adventures and Tibetan culture. Additionally, you could opt for a wildlife safari for 5–9 days in Madhya Pradesh (Satpura, Pench, and Kanha) for a unique wildlife experience.

3. Our Top 2 Handpicked India Itineraries

We've thoughtfully crafted two itineraries for readers' inspiration: 9-Day India's Golden Triangle with Tiger Safari and 14-Day Classic Rajasthan Tour. Most of our clients take them as a starting point for customizing their own ideal India itinerary. If you have a different schedule or interests, feel free to contact us for a personalized itinerary .

India Itinerary 1: Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur in 9 Days

This tour is specially designed for first-timers, particularly for families with teenagers. Your 9-day adventure starts from the capital, Delhi, where you would experience a profusion of Indian city life. In Agra, known as the epitome of love, you could marvel at its grandest wonder, the Taj Mahal. Then, venture into Ranthambore National Park on a thrilling jeep safari to spot tigers. Finally, visit Jaipur to see the captivating historical palaces and forts of the Pink City.

For more exclusive experiences, you and your loved one(s) could traverse the lively markets via a rickshaw ride in Delhi, take a light walk around a local village with a high tea break, and create your own Indian cuisine with a local family in Jaipur.

If you are more interested in India's religious culture, you could consider replacing the tiger safari with Varanasi( See the itinerary accordingly ).

Here is a suggested itinerary:

Days 1–2: Delhi sightseeing
Days 3–4: Drive from Delhi to Agra, Agra sightseeing
Days 5–6: Drive from Agra to Ranthambore, Ranthambore jeep safari (only available from October to June)
Days 7–8: Drive to Jaipur, Jaipur sightseeing
Day 9: Drive back to Delhi

You could find more options on 9 days in India .

India Itinerary 2: 14-Day Golden Triangle and Rajasthan Highlights

This 14-day tour would take you beyond the Golden Triangle (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur) deep into Rajasthan, the 'Land of Kings'.

Starting your trip from the Golden Triangle cities, visit the interesting Karni Mata Temple ('sacred rat temple') in Bikaner, take a camel safari in the desert of Jaisalmer, wander around the blue city of Jodhpur, and unwind in laid-back Udaipur.

If you are looking for romantic experiences, you and your partner could visit the Taj Mahal in Indian attire in Agra, enjoy a candle-lit dinner like a king and queen in Amber Fort in Jaipur, and stay at a heritage palace hotel in Udaipur.

You can see the summary itinerary below:

Days 3–4: Agra highlights
Day 5: Jaipur sightseeing and cooking class experience
Days 6–7: Bikaner sightseeing with a heritage hotel experience
Days 8–9: Jaisalmer exploration with a camel safari
Days 10–11: Jodhpur sightseeing
Days 12–13: Udaipur tour with a boat ride experience
Day 14: Back to Delhi

Click here to get the full itinerary! You could also check out our 2-Week Luxury India Tour for more romantic choices and see more on 2 Weeks in India: The Best 4 India Itineraries for You!

4. Best Times to Visit India

For cool and dry weather, December to February is the best time to visit most of India , except for the far north areas, such as Ladakh. This is because the monsoon lasts from June to September and hot temperatures dominate from March to May across most of the country.

March, October, and November could be seen as middle-ground periods. During these periods, you could enjoy mostly warm and dry weather, and also benefit from more affordable prices than December to March. Besides, you would have chances to celebrate India's most important festivals with locals: join in the colorful powder fights during Holi (around March) and hang out at the festival markets during Diwali in October/November.

Celebrating with colorful festivals with us:

8-Day Diwali Festival in India's Golden Triangle Tour
10-Day Royal Rajasthan and Camel Festival Tour
11-Day India Holi Festival Tour

5. Consider Your Travel Budget

India is a large and diverse destination that offers different costs for traveling. The cost of travel in India depends on where you are going and what kinds of hotels you are going to stay at.

If you're looking for a hassle-free and comfortable trip in India, the daily cost is about US$200 to 250 per person per day for a private tour during the peak season (December to February). During the festival seasons (Holi in March, Diwali in November, and Christmas and New Year), prepare for even higher prices and avoid last-minute bookings.

If you're traveling in the low season (June to September), the price would decrease to 170 to 200 USD per person per day.

These prices include private transfers, private land tours with guides, 4/5-star hotels, and internal flights. You could see more price details from our two best-selling private tours.

9-Day India's Golden Triangle with Tiger Safari : from US$1,869 per person
14-Day Classic Rajasthan Tour : from US$2,459 per person

Check out more on our How Much Does a Trip to India Cost?

6. Special Accommodation Experiences in India

When traveling to North India, treat yourself to a special palace stay, which is especially recommended for a milestone celebration. You could easily find budget-friendly to luxury options in Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Surprise your loved one(s) with the sunset views of the Taj Mahal from The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra or enjoy a private lakeside candlelit dinner at The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur.

Wildlife enthusiasts, don't miss a luxury jungle camp experience in Ranthambore National Park . SUJÁN Sher Bagh, just outside the park, comes highly recommended. Stay at a luxury tented camp, enjoy a private dinner by a campfire, and immerse yourself in all the sights and sounds of nature with a rustic and old-world vibe.

If you are going to travel to South India, consider taking a private overnight backwaters houseboat in Alleppey , Kerala for exclusive and tranquil experiences. Cruise the waterways among green fields, palm trees, and quaint villages, and sit back with your partner to enjoy sunset drinks.

Contact us to customize your private India tour with more special stays within 24 hours! Or get some inspiration from How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

7. How to Get To and Around India

Getting to india.

The best way to get to India is by flight. There are direct flights from the main cities in the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and other countries to Delhi and Mumbai. It takes about 12–15 hours from America or Australia to India and 8–10 hours from Europe to India by air.

How to Get Around in India

Private transport is the main choice for city tours, especially when taking in some offbeat experiences and venturing into remote areas. Our door-to-door service offers the best flexibility and saves you from the hassles of navigating train stations with confusing signs and the hardship of being crammed into a small seat on a crowded bus.

The train is considered to be the most atmospheric and relaxing way to unveil authentic Indian life and scenery in a longer journey context. In India, you could use express trains or slower trains. Slower trains are not recommended due to their lack of privacy and hygiene. Meanwhile, booking train tickets online poses challenges for first-time visitors, given the complex registration process and ticket class selection.

So, if you're considering including a train journey in your private India tour, for hassle-free booking and to ensure your comfort, we recommend opting for express trains for short journeys, such as Delhi to Agra (about 2 hours), or exploring on all-inclusive luxury tourist trains , such as our 7-Day Maharajas' Express Luxury Train Tour .

Flights are highly recommended for long-distance travel. For example, from Delhi to Varanasi, flights just take 1½ hours, while the fastest trains require 8 hours and private transfers need 12 hours. For shorter distances, the check-in time, transfers from/to the airport, and possible delays could whittle away the time advantage.

Tour India with Us

As one of the leading tour companies in Asia, we have been providing travel services for more than 20 years to thousands of satisfied customers. To fulfill your South Asia travel dreams, let us know your requirements and interests for a tailor-made tour of India .

Here are some popular itineraries for your reference:

9-Day India Golden Triangle with Tiger Safari
12-Day India and Bhutan Tour
14-Day Family Holiday in India
14-Day Classic Rajasthan Tour

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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Our top India itineraries for first-time visitors

India: is there anywhere else in the world that offers such a dizzying array of culture, food, religions and landscapes? Home to over 1.3 billion people, 40 UNESCO sites and the planet’s biggest film industry, India offers unlimited adventure, whether you’re touring palaces in Rajasthan, hiking among Himalayan peaks or tiger-spotting in national parks.

An entire lifetime wouldn’t be long enough to discover all of India’s treasures, so how do you even begin to plan your first trip? This mammoth country – the seventh-largest on the planet – is best explored one region at a time and each offers a distinctly different experience from the next. So, start by perusing these top India itineraries for first-time visitors, there’s something for everyone.

The Golden Triangle and Rajasthan

Perfect for : history and culture hounds

You can’t go wrong with a classic Golden Triangle itinerary on your first trip to India. We offer both small group tour and tailormade options. This well-travelled route takes in Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, offering a mix of UNESCO-listed architectural gems, from palaces and forts to the grand jewel: the Taj Mahal. Encounter a whirl of modern Indian life set against a backdrop of colonial and Mughal history in Delhi , India’s frenetic capital. In the old portion of the city, the bazaars are an endless maze of spices, fabrics and street food. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a rickshaw tour or relish the quieter magic of Delhi by dawn to ease yourself into the chaos.

Next, wander the pink-hued streets of Jaipur. A tour of the city’s temples and havelis will give you an insight into this Rajput-era city, where secret archways lead to family-run havelis like Dera Mandawa . For many, Agra is the highlight of the Golden Triangle, home of India’s celebrated Taj Mahal. For unique views of Shah Jehan’s monument to love, take a countryside bike ride and stay at Oberoi Amarvilas , the closest hotel to this UNESCO wonder. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, there’s so much more of Agra to uncover, take a storytelling tour with a local to learn more.

If you want to extend your Golden Triangle trip, continue through magical Rajasthan’s deserts to Jodhpur. Painted a striking blue, Jodhpur is a haven for photographers and an artistic hotbed where you can meet tie dye gurus and visit the battlements and lakes of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort . Nearby Udaipur is the place to come for turreted palaces and glassy lakes, which lends the city a romantic feel. Stay at a royal abode, Taj Fateh Prakash Palace , and wake early to cycle through the city , witnessing daily life unfold.

Central India’s national parks

Perfect for: wildlife enthusiasts

If you’re looking for the real-life Jungle Book, tour central India’s national parks . A mecca for wildlife lovers, these protected areas are your best chance at spotting tigers, bears and a host of exotic animals on safari. Start at Pench National Park , thought to be the place that inspired Rudyard Kipling’s beloved tale of Mowgli and his animal companions. Stay at a luxury jungle camp or tree house in this pristine park, where you can spend your days on jeep safaris , traversing a land of towering teak trees and grassy plains, keeping an eye out for Bengal tigers, sloth bears and extremely rare black panthers – Shere Khan, Baloo and Bagheera brought to life.

Continue in Kanha , a huge national park set in the central hills of India. This is one of India’s oldest reserves, home to around 100 endangered Bengal tigers, along with everything from swamp deer to leopards and a host of colourful birds that you’ll spot on an eco-walk with a ranger . African-style safari lodges like Singinawa are the ideal base to explore from. Smaller but no less beautiful, Bandhavgarh and Panna parks also offer tiger-spotting opportunities. Once royal hunting grounds, their forests, rocky outcrops and grasslands are now sanctuaries for Indian wildlife. Highlights include dawn boat rides on Panna’s Ken River and tribal village tours in Bandhavgarh.

The Indian Himalayas

Perfect for : hikers and spiritual seekers

Enter a land of frozen peaks and Tibetan monasteries on a trip to the Indian Himalayas. The high-altitude region draws trekkers and religious pilgrims alike; it’s the domain of the Dalai Lama, where prayer flags flutter in the breeze and dinner consists of fat Tibetan momos. Meanwhile, the lower foothills are carved with emerald tea bushes belonging to plantations that have been passed through generations and hill stations accessed by puffing steam trains.

A journey to the western Himalayas begins in Amritsar, India’s Sikh heartland with its sacred Golden Temple and stirring colonial history, which you’ll discover on a locally-led tour . The route leads north to Dharamshala, the base of the exiled Tibetan government, where your days will be spent trekking to Himalayan villages , delving into Buddhist culture and visiting the Dalai Lama’s Tsuglagkhang temple complex. More monasteries await in Palampur and Pragpur, as well as the famed Masroor rock temples . Your last stop before Delhi is Shimla, the 19 th -century seat of the British Raj, where you can hike pine-scented trails and relax in a fairytale cottage at Jungle Lodge .

Darjeeling sits in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas , known for its tea plantations and UNESCO-listed steam train. Stay at Glenburn Tea Estate to learn how India’s national drink is produced and uncover Darjeeling’s history on a cultural tour . Spiral ever upwards to the hill towns of Pelling and Gangtok, where monks chant in monasteries, gold-topped stupas sit against snow-shrouded peaks and locals will invite you in for lunch . In the former trading post Kalimpong, loved for its Bhutanese monastery Thongsa Gompa, you can stay at a Himalayan spa resort before ending your voyage in Kolkata.

Southern India and the coast

Perfect for: relaxation and beaches

If it’s relaxation you’re after, a tour of India’s southern Kerala state will allow you to bask on golden sands, sip tea in hill stations and navigate Kerala’s lazy backwaters. You can do this whilst making friends on a small group tour or by travelling independently. Kochi is a great starting point, crowned the Queen of the Arabian Sea for its thriving spice trade, which left a cosmopolitan legacy of Portuguese, Dutch and Chinese heritage to unwrap in cooking classes and kathakali dance displays . Trail north to Munnar, Kerala’s highest tea region, where you can visit tea plantations by tuk tuk and check into the boutique getaway, Windermere Estate .

After visiting the spice farms of Thekaddy , head to Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala’s sleepy backwaters. Explore on traditional houseboats called kettuvallams, once used to transport produce and passengers along the labyrinthine waterways. Philipkutty’s Farm in the village of Kumarakom offers a taste of India’s famous hospitality and a chance to take in the views. Finally, that paradisiacal slice of sand can be found on Mararikulam’s near-deserted beaches and Marari Beach Resort , where your only obligation is to swing in a hammock under the palms. If you’re craving more sun-drenched chill time, an extension to the hippie haven Goa is a must, loved for its bohemian vibe and white-sand beaches lapped by the Arabian Sea.

To start planning your Indian holiday, call us on 0808 239 0555, contact one of our Asia experts or arrange a phone or video appointment .

Related itineraries…

India's genuine golden triangle, enchanting kerala, magical rajasthan, tibetan retreats and toy trains in the western himalayas, in search of the bengal tiger, tea, temples and tibetan culture in the eastern himalayas, related things to do…, tour old delhi by rickshaw, oberoi amarvilas: a window onto the taj mahal, tour the temples and havelis of old jaipur, meet a tie dye guru in jodhpur, tibetan culture and mountain life: the naddi village walk, glenburn tea estate: how a love story fashioned one of the world’s best hotels, a window into the dance drama of kathakali, spice village: eden found in thekkady, pench tree lodge: india’s wild tree houses, an eco-focused walk around the wilds of singinawa, exploring darjeeling’s many, many cultures, mayfair kalimpong: a hollywood hideaway, plan your holiday with alfred&.

Your journey will start with one of our UK team – someone like Malcolm, who's travelled extensively in India. They’ll shape your ideas into the trip of a lifetime. But they won't do it alone. They'll draw on the expertise of our contacts on the ground, connecting you to the people who'll make your holiday one you'll always remember.

Malcolm Holcroft

India Travel Expert for Alfred&

A wildlife and history fan, Malcolm Holcroft is drawn to India for its national parks and UNESCO-listed monuments. His Indian adventures include traversing the Golden Triangle, taking tiger-spotting safaris in Kanha and sipping beer in Mumbai’s historic cafés. Malcolm will never forget getting stuck behind a wedding party on his way to Jaipur, with revellers dancing to booming music in the streets.

Sharath Kumar

Kathakali Maestro

Sharath began learning the classical dance of bharatnatyam at the tender age of 5 and his kathakali journey began soon after. He has had the privilege of working with several great maestros and has competed in various festivals winning many prizes. He represented India in the World Youth Festival held in Havana in 1978 as India’s youngest cultural ambassador and has travelled the world performing to audiences including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and former American Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.

Ishwar Dewani

Tie dye guru

Ishwar Dewani is an expert in the art of Banhani, tie dye, in his hometown of Jodhpur. The tradition was passed down to Ishwar from his grandfather and he still follows their original techniques today, yet with additional colours and designs. Ishwar loves sharing his passion for tie dye through workshops and owns a small boutique store where he sells his colourful clothes.

Chandra Kala Purohit

Cook and host

Chandra Kala Purohit lives in Jodhpur with her husband Lalit, a former tour guide who loved to invite visitors in for tea – which is how the Blue House cooking classes began. An accomplished chef, Chandra learnt her skills from her mother and grandmother, later passing them down to her own daughter. Chandra loves hosting guests in her home and teaching them how to make authentic Rajasthani food.

Ritu Kalra, Founder of Old Delhi Rickshaw Tours

Founder of Old Delhi Rickshaw Tours, Alfred&'s partner in India

Growing up, Ritu Kalra would visit her grandparents’ Mughal-era haveli in Old Delhi and was fascinated by their stories of the city. After graduating from Delhi University, Ritu worked in the financial industry for many years before launching her passion project in 2010: When in India Tours. Ritu lives in Delhi with her husband and son and is a travel freak who loves cooking, yoga and showcasing her hometown to travellers.

Rajeev Goyal

Co-founder of Delhi Photo Tour, Alfred&'s partner in India

A chef by profession, Rajeev Goyal co-founded Delhi Photo Tour in 2010, the first company of its kind in the city. Rajeev loves to share his passion for photography with guests, helping them capture unique images of everyday life in Delhi. Rajeev specialises in portrait photography and is an expert in framing, lighting and determining advanced shutter and lens settings.

Freephone an expert 01306 744 656 Open at 10am

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How to Prepare for your First Trip to India | india Travel Blog

This India travel blog is a guide to first time India for travellers – if it’s your first time visiting India and you’re not sure where to start, here’s some of what you can expect and how best to prepare for your trip to India!

This post contains compensated affiliate links. You can read our full disclosure here .

First Trip in India Travel Blog: A Complete Guide to Travel in India

I’d dreamed of travelling to India all my life.

I’d wake up from fitful sleep on flights to Asia whilst flying over the subcontinent. Not once, or twice—but every single time.

In 2015, back when I was on sabbatical from my corporate job in tourism (and pre-blogging days), the only country I knew I absolutely had to go to was India. It took me months after my first trip to India to write about it – not for want of enthusiasm – but for the daunting task of trying to put my first trip to India into words.

The sub-continent to me stood for a land of energy, mystery, spirituality, colour and love. I fantasised about riding around on trains and smelling the heat and energy of the place. Of seeing elephants and tigers, colourful saris, prayer ceremonies on the banks of the ganges, chaotic streets blocked by slow moving cows and so much more.

But beyond that, Incredible India has just always held an inexplicable draw for me. It has tugged at my heart strings . And I know I’m not the only one.

Six years on from that first time visit to India – and many subsequent solo trips to India, this is what I’ve learned. Over the last 6 years I’ve spent over 18 months travelling and staying in India. India has even become a part of me – and I’ve come to learn a little of what to expect travelling India and how to prepare for travel in India – whether it’s for the first or tenth time.

So grab a cup of something hot and keep reading to find out what you need to know to plan the trip to India you’ve always dreamed of.

India Travel Update 2022

After almost 2 years of closed borders to International tourism, India officially removed all travel restrictions and quarantine requirements for inbound travellers to India in March 2022. Regular scheduled international flights have now resumed, and tourist visas are being issued.

Prior to travelling to India, passengers are required to fill in a form via the Air Suvidha portal (check the latest instructions with your airline) in addition to any requirements put in place by your carrier. Travellers are advised to self-monitor their health on arrival in India for 14 days.

Since travel rules are subject to change, do (continue to) check with official sources for updates on Covid-19 travel protocols, such as your government’s travel advisory.

For how to plan a trip to India in the current time, find all my planning resources for India here .

First Time India: What to Expect.

The Average travel advice for India is full of cliches such as “expect the unexpected”, or even “prepare to lose yourself”. Unhelpful as they might sound, there’s a reason for these cliches. Over my journeys to India I’ve come to realise that life somehow seems much “larger” there – there’s the chaos, the bustle, the beauty, but also the sheer number of people somehow ensure, that whatever your opinions on what to expect from your first trip to India, you’ll never be quite right.

So here are my own versions of the cliches, based on this traveller’s experiences:

Boarding my flight from Bangkok to Delhi, I posted on my Facebook page “Ready for India… I think” one of my friends wrote back “You are never ready for India. But the good thing is, India is always ready for you!” .

I can’t think of anything more true. Nothing prepares you for the reality of India . It really is like no other place on earth.

READ MORE: How to Cope with Culture Shock in India

Leave your expectations on the plane . It’s one thing to read about India in books and see pictures. It’s another to be there. Prime example: the Taj Mahal (a must for any visitor, despite its overburdening popularity ). No matter how many pictures of the Taj Mahal we’ve all seen, there is nothing that prepares you for the actual beauty of the place. Glistening white in the morning sunshine, rising from the misty river banks behind. Just like the Taj, first time India is an experience best enjoyed without expectations and pre-judgements.

India will teach you patience. This is one of the few things you can be certain of. Getting frustrated when things don’t go to plan or you discovered you’ve been ripped off in some transaction does not serve us well. Understanding up front that ‘staring’ is not considered particularly rude by many, and that you may attract quite a few stares during your trip, will help keep your patience in tact too. In short—in a country where the lateness of trains is measured not by hours late but by quarter, half or full day late—adapting an open, go with the flow attitude makes travel in India a lot more enjoyable. Which brings me to my next point…

Psst… Want to avoid Delhi’s “famous” scams? Check out my survival guide to Delhi.

You have not experienced India until you’ve taken a train. Despite the recent growth in domestic airlines in India, 90% of India’s population travel from place to place by train. Passenger trains extend for up to half a kilometre long, run distances such as Mumbai to Kolkata (2,000 Kilometres, taking 1.5 days) and Indian Railways is the largest employers in the world.

Trains are relatively comfortable in India (providing they’re on time that is!) and often make the most convenient and interesting option for inter-city journeys. For more comfort go for 2 or 3 tier AC as opposed to the non AC option, and enjoy the opportunity to meet and talk to people—you’ll find that many Indians are happy to have an opportunity to converse in English and are curious to know more about you. Trains can fill up quickly so advance booking is recommended and booking can be a challenge—if you’re tight on time and need to get to specific places on a schedule it is well worth looking into using a travel agent to book trains, as trains do sell out. Trains are also a good option for solo female travellers .

Be prepared for dirt, pollution and poverty. Sadly, India’s population of 1.2 billion + has taken its toll on the country and its not uncommon to see piles of rotting garbage, cows happily eating plastic in the streets, and railway lines strewn with trash. It’s easy to point fingers at the people throwing trash, but the truth is waste (let alone recycling) infrastructure is not at all up to scratch in many parts of India, as well as there being an education problem about what to do with garbage. Don’t let this put you off a visit, but it is something to be prepared for. Do your bit by avoiding single use plastic on your trip to India – tips on how to do that in our responsible travel section below.

Poverty is prevalent in many places and is heartbreaking, and it’s also a complex issue. While wealthy Indians are undoubtedly getting richer and more numerous and the middle class is growing too, there is still a large section of society who do not have access to clean water or even toilets. Many of the rural poor flock to India’s megacities in search of work and opportunity, but they find harsh conditions and often the most vulnerable are recruited into begging rings, criminal gangs, and worse.

In most of India’s towns and cities you’ll see people on the streets in a desperate state, and railway stations are ground zero for professional beggars. Whether you decide to give is up to you, but know that most temples do offer free food to those in need and many involved in begging are addicted to drugs and alcohol.

We recommend supporting charities who aim to help with the various problems. I strongly advise against giving pens, sweets, money or anything else to begging children as it sets a precedent for other visitors, and the gifts they are given are often exchanged for money afterwards, amongst other problems.

Not everyone gets sick in India. For first time India, I’d just assumed I would get an upset stomach in India, and so was amazed that I managed a month there without incident. As did many of the other travellers I was with. My best tip—go vegetarian. India has such amazing food and a rich variety of dishes and menus catering to vegetarians that going veggie is a breeze. The best place to experience Indian Cuisine to its fullest (and at its most hygienic) is in an Indian home. Filtered water is plentiful, fine to drink and usually available free of charge (take your re-usable water bottle with you to reduce plastic waste). That said, swim in the Ganges at your peril…

You don’t have to go it alone. See our tours section below! India is not always the easiest place for travellers, but there are plenty of alternatives – from meeting up with other travellers in major tourist hubs in India, to joining an organised tour.

I used Intrepid Travel for my first trip to India and had an amazing experience. G Adventures , who I have also travelled with offer similar trips around India . Our transport and hotels were pre-booked, cutting hassle, and we got to see places that were off the beaten path as well as some of the top attractions in India such as Varanasi.

Or, search multiple tours to India on Tour Radar here!

How to Prepare for Travel to India

Here we need to remember that India is not just a country, it’s a sub-continent! To travel any distance in India and to see more than one area of the country you need time. We love to encourage slow travel wherever possible here on Soul Travel and in this India travel blog, and in our humble opinion there’s nothing quite like taking a train ride alongside locals, vs taking domestic flights and missing out on the beautiful Indian landscapes. Read on for how to do this!

Almost ready for India? Grab your Lonely Planet Guide to India here .

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Planning Your First Trip to India

The seventh largest country in the world, India occupies more than 3 million kilometres of landmass on the globe. That’s a lot of travelling. Assuming most first time visitors to India have 1-3 weeks to travel around, we recommend sticking with one area of the country.

Read all about how to plan your dream trip to India plus download your free planning timeline in this post!

Many first time visitors to India go for the Golden Triangle, which is made up of Agra, Delhi, and Jaipur, plus a bit of Rajasthan added on, time permitting. The reason is simple: Agra is home to the Taj Mahal and is just 3 hours from Delhi, Jaipur is home to stunning Mughal Arhitecture and palaces galore, and also within easy reach of Delhi too.

The fact that most travellers do just this, is the reason we suggest not to just to the Golden Triangle when visiting India first time. These are India’s most touristed (and to some extent over-touristed) destinations in India, and naturally are where you’ll find the tourist crowds. Because of the high level of (foreign) tourism to these areas, it’s also where you’ll find most hassle: partly from enthusiastic vendors who are used to cash-rich-time-poor tourists who aren’t used to bargaining, and partly from men who hope to catch a glimpse of less-than-well-covered skin. It’s not that I don’t like Delhi, Agra or Jaipur (ok well actually sorry Agra, I really don’t like you) , but in my view they aren’t the best places to kick off your first visit to India with: especially if travelling alone.

Where to Go on Your First Trip to India

This really depends on your preferences and interests, and what you want to experience on your travels to India. India’s North is diverse from the South in many ways – from architecture, to language, to food and landscapes.Those in search of mountains and trekking head north to the peaks of Himachal Pradesh and the Indian Himalayas in Ladakh . Beach lovers head south to Goa and Kerala , and Rajasthan is hard to beat when it comes to princely palaces and sheer impressiveness. Food and architecture connoisseurs are spoilt for choice as the whole country is awash with tasty thalis and faith-inspiring temples.

Spiritual seekers, yogis and would-be-gurus head to the life-changing cities of Rishikesh and Varanasi . When I planned my first trip to India I knew that I had to see Varanasi: one of the oldest cities in the world. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that Varanasi is quite unlike any other place on earth. This beautiful video gives something of a flavour:

You can read more about some of the top Pilgrimage sites in India here .

South India (usually taken as meaning Mumbai and below) is seen as having a more relaxed, easy going vibe, less conservative than the north, and so is often taken as a better option for solo female travellers to India. The reality though is a bit more complicated than that. Laid back Buddhist-influenced Ladakh in the far north of India is every bit as safe as Kerala for women, where more conservative areas still exist. While in some ways the differences between North and South India may be blurred the differences in landscape could not be more stark. While the south is home to swaying palms, heavy monsoons and lush, thick green grasses and rice paddies, the north is a sandy bowl, exposed to extreme heat each summer. If you like to get truly off the beaten path then East and North East India may be just the thing for you.

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Your India Packing List – Our Recommendations

First things first: Don’t pack too much! 1) You’ll want to leave enough space in your bag to buy all the pretty colourful things…. and 2) Travel in India (especially if you’re doing it independently) involves a lot of moving around, a fair amount of getting in and out of transport – not to mention various modes of transport. You won’t want to be carrying your bathroom cabinet around. If in doubt? Leave it at home!

Packing for India

The most important thing: Travel Insurance . Don’t leave home without it! Get a quote with World Nomads (who I use) here .

Clothing for Women – sorry guys, you can pretty much wear what you want – see more on the what to wear section below.

Loose fitting, sleeved shirts or tunics – We love these ones for women . Avoid solid white as the dust will spoil it easily – patterns disguise dirt better! Cotton or linen shirts/t-shirts are fine.
2-3 Light Scarves – useful for draping over your head / chest – go as colourful as you like! And don’t take too many as you’re sure to buy some there
Loose fitting linen/cotton pants for women
Closed slip on/off shoes similar to VANS / TOMS (that you don’t mind getting dirty!) are ideal as you’ll likely want to protect your feet while travelling & walking around cities, and a pair of flip-flips for hanging out in, too. If you’re planning on trekking, bring good trekking shoes.
Ladies – Tampons are available in the big cities, but not beyond and are expensive. It’s better to avoid use of sanitary napkins due to inadequate waste disposal and the plastic waste they create. We recommend using non-polluting protection such as a menstrual cup , washable pads , or period underwear .
Try to bring plastic-free, organic/chemical free soap and shampoo bars , as often waste goes straight into the water.

READ MORE: WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA FOR TRAVELLERS

Electronics

India’s power sockets are a fun mix – and are mostly 3 round pin (however you may find some type C (European 2 round pin) and British style 3 square pin. So a multi way travel adaptor (or 3) is a must. Or look for type D adaptors .
Make sure to bring a power bank for long bus, launch and train journeys

Staying Healthy in India

First off – not everyone gets sick in India!
A first aid kit is highly recommended for India – bring disinfectant liquid, cream, plasters, broad spectrum antibiotics, mosquito repellant, sunscreen and meds for stomach upsets. In case you do need medical help, the major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore have world-class medical facilities.
Travel Insurance! A must for India – don’t leave home without it. I use World Nomads and recommend them. Read my full guide to travel insurance for India here !
Water filtration / purification equipment & water bottle as tap water is not safe to drink in India (but commonly available filtered (RO) water is fine – I have drunk it for many months) – Check out my Steripen and favourite water bottle for travel in India here .

What to Wear for Travel in India

This is much more for the ladies – lads get off lightly and in general men will not have to make many adjustments to normal clothing.

Bear in mind that it can get cold in the North of India – the whole of India is not always hot! In Delhi and the North temperatures regularly get down into single figures, and a coat might even be necessary – it gets cold at night or out of the sun. The south of India is generally warm-hot and humid the year round.

Many people prefer to stick with closed shoes for travel around cities in India – as streets are not that clean. After some time though, you may decide that constantly tying and un-tying shoes to enter houses and temples is a pain and revert to your sandals/flip flops. Forget any idea of high heels unless you’re going to be mingling with the who’s who in the big cities 😉 .

Read my full India Packing List here !

What to Wear in India for Male Travellers

You’ll see the vast majority of Indian men in t-shirt and jeans, shirt and jeans, or work-shirt and smart trousers. That’s about the variation. Kurta Pyjama / Salwaar Kameez is all but reserved for formal occasions or worn in some rural societies, and is not needed for visitors. Shorts are becoming more common in India but long trousers are still the norm. Avoid walking around top-less and you won’t offend anybody!

What to Wear in India for Female Travellers

As a female traveller, covering up makes a huge difference to how you may be approached: in general always cover your shoulders and knees. You don’t need to wear Indian dress unless you want to, in which case buying a few beautiful Kurtas (tunic tops) may prove hard to resist!

A few do’s and don’ts for what to wear in India for women:

Take a light cotton scarf or two – these are really useful to drape across your chest/shoulders or your head if you’re getting unwanted attention! I’ve used scarves to hide myself on buses and places where I wanted to be inconspicuous! You’ll find plenty of beautiful of scarves to buy though so don’t take too many.. 😉
Wear light weight, long trousers – showing “leg” is not really the done thing in India (unless you’re on the beach in Goa or in a trendy Mumbai nightclub that is).
Cover your shoulders – as above, 90% of ladies cover their shoulders. Cleavage or any hint of chest is a no-no.
In general, in the cosmopolitan areas of Mumbai and Bangalore you can be more relaxed (the same does not apply for Delhi), and the more rural and remote you go the more conservative you need to be with your dress. If going off the beaten track local clothing is great to fit in!
The above applies for all women but the more obviously “un-Indian” you look (think blonde hair) the more you’ll need to make an effort, sadly – as eyes will already by naturally curious.

Safe travel for women in India is a topic of its own right, but i’ve found a couple of things particularly helpful: getting a mobile phone with a local number has been great for checking my location and avoiding “detours” in rickshaws from enterprising drivers. A book is a great decoy for avoiding eye contact from would-be-romeo’s. It’s worth noting that meaningless chit chat with strange men is not the norm in Indian society, and engaging in conversations with young strangers can be taken as a sign of “interest”.

READ MORE: The Best Places in India for Solo Female Travellers

Local Transport: How to Get Around in India.

Domestic Flights. Given the size of India, it’s perhaps no surprise that India’s domestic flight network is booming and becoming increasingly popular. We’re not fans of flying and frankly think that any other means of transport is more interesting (as well as being more carbon friendly), but we also recognise that there are times when one needs to fly.

Of the domestic operators, Jet Airways was our favourite but alas went into liquidation. Indigo is no-frills but usually efficient, and Vistara (owned by Taj) has great service. These are two of our favourites; on the other hand we usually try to avoid Air India who have a habit of getting delayed…

Note that it is possible to get to most places by train instead of flying – you just need time. There are popular routes that many choose to fly on – such as Mumbai to Goa – where the train ride only takes 8 hours and takes you through beautiful, lush scenery.

If you plan to fly in India be aware that the baggage limit is often 15kg (so less than international flights) and remember to bring the debit/credit card you used to make the flight booking with you to check in as airlines will ask to see it.

Trains. Indian Railways is a huge part of the infrastructure of India (as well as the third largest employer in the world) and to travel to India without taking a train is to miss India completely. Booking tickets can be a time-consuming process / require a little patience so if you’re in a hurry and want to book your tickets from abroad, we suggest using a travel agent.

For all you need to know about train travel in India, read this post . Some of our favourite journeys to date have been: Mumbai – Pune (get the early morning train for full effect of sun rising over the mountains); Delhi – Kolkata and the Rajdhani (express trains); Kochin – Goa and Ajmer – Udaipur in Rajasthan. Read my best Indian train journeys guide here .

Buses. Buses and even pick-ups and mini-vans form a key part of local transport infrastructure and are the best option for getting to and from smaller towns that don’t have railway access. These are a mix between state-run buses and private buses. Depending on the state you are in, you can search for that state’s “State Road Transport” or buses: For example “Kerala State Road Transport Corporation” runs in Kerala, known as the KSRTC will get you bus schedules and information.

There are also plenty of over-night sleeper buses on longer distance routes – these tend to all be AC, and many travellers prefer to opt for Volvo buses which are considered high-end and safer. We prefer travelling by train for overnight journeys as we find it more comfortable, but buses are easier to book than trains and can be a good option if trains are sold out.

Should I Travel Alone to India?

This is an important question, as it determines to some extent the type of experience you will have. Particularly for (solo) female travellers. On my first trip to India, I travelled as part of an Intrepid Travel tour group. I had an amazing time. I got to experience plenty of India (their style of tours include travel on trains and other local transport, eating with local families, and plenty of cultural activities) so I felt that in many ways I got the best of both worlds.

On my subsequent trips to India, however, I’ve travelled without tours or groups, and for significant amounts of time by myself.

So Should you Travel to India Solo for the First Time?

It really depends on you. India is a beautiful country filled with many kind, compassionate and generous people.

On my first solo trip to India I was definitely nervous. I was reassured by the fact that i’d already been to India and so knew a little of what to expect. I’d been warned away from travelling India for the first time solo, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. Unfortunately there’s a huge amount of negative press around solo female travel in India – and an equally large number of naysayers to solo female travel there – which can put a damper on any intrepedista’s plans.

To thrive in India as a solo (especially female) traveller, you need:

A good level of confidence and guts (or fake it til you make it – what I did!)
Some experience of travelling in developing countries is helpful
To have your wits about you – or do as in India and rely on intuition
To be willing to adapt to local customs – which may mean not going out after dark, putting up with men talking over you, covering up / dressing conservatively – to name but a few things. Even if you do not agree with such customs, measures such as covering up and towing the line are essential in some parts of India.
To be willing to keep an open mind
To be willing to deal with stares, many a chat-up line, and possibly the odd grope. It doesn’t mean you have to “put up” with them – you can react as you please! But these things *can* happen and should not ruin your trip.

As a solo or independent traveller you get to run your own schedule, move at your own pace and have plenty of conversations with new friends over chai. Enough said.

With a group or on a tour, you have less freedom but more feeling of security, ready-made friends, and in the case of a tour most of the pain of organising things is done… leaving you to enjoy your holiday.

If you’re not sure where to head as a solo female traveller in India, we recommend starting in South India (which is more relaxed) and working your way north.

READ NOW: A Complete Guide to Solo Female Travel in India

Recommended India Tour Itineraries

If you’d prefer to experience India with some travel companions, and/or have some of the organising work done for you, a group tour of India is a great option. Group tours in India are generally good value for money, provide a good level of comfort (depending on the trip), and are a great introduction to India travel. Choosing the best India tour itinerary for you depends on your budget, how much time you have, and your preferred travel style.

We have travelled with G Adventures ourselves, and have heard very positive reviews of their India trips from fellow travellers. Plus we love that they have a whole India by rail category ! #bucketlist.

Here is one of our favourite itineraries of India:

Mysteries of India – Two Weeks, Rajasthan, National Geographic Journeys by G Adventures

For a Great Rajasthan Experience

This is a classic India tour itinerary that covers quintessential Rajasthan (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer) plus an opportunity to get off the beaten track and experience local culture in Rajasthani villages too. The trip is run by G Adventures under the National Geographic Journeys label which means upgraded accommodations, authentic local experiences, and guaranteed adventure . I bumped into a group on this trip during my stay at Chandelao Garh homestay and both the group and tour guide were amazing. The trip visits two G Adventures Planeterra not for profit projects and includes meals with local families and overnights at homestays for a more local, responsible experience.

Check dates, rates and more information for this itinerary here !

You can find many more India group tour itineraries here or read my Guide to the best group tours around India in this post .

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India Travel FAQ’s

Is travel to india safe.

One of the common questions I get from family, friends, colleagues and even bloggers. To quote my favourite part of the UK Foreign Office (state dept) travel advice section for India:

“Over 940,000 British nationals visited India in 2017. Most visits are trouble-free.”

That said, India is not Bali, it’s not Spain, and it’s definitely not Florida. Unless you’re coming to India on a fully escorted tour (and even then) you need to prepare for travel to India . That means reading up in advance, being organised with your planning if you only have a short time in India, learning a bit about the culture and customs, and being prepared to adapt your expectations and behaviour (including what you wear) accordingly.

If you’re travelling to India as a solo female, we strongly urge you to read this post to determine if solo female travel in India is for you, and how to go about it.

Most Indians are incredibly warm hearted, generous, and will go out of their way to look after guests. I can’t count the number of times I’ve been taken in and looked after by kind hearted locals in India.

India has a bad reputation for travel, but it’s not really deserved. Read our tips, prepare yourself and come and give India a go. India favours those who persevere and keep an open mind!

In our (biased) opinion, the worst thing you’re likely to experience in India is getting ripped off (consider it good practice for your haggling skills) and some unwanted attention for women. Considering the HUGE pluses of travel to India: We say: Go!

Disclaimer: These are just our opinions after many trips to and living in India. If you want something more official, head to your government’s travel advisory. (Yuk – seriously, just do your research and book your flights!)

Do I need a Visa to Visit India?

Probably, yes. Most nationalities do. Check and apply on the official Government of India website here .

E-visas are gradually replacing paper visas, even for longer lengths of validity now. If you want to use an agency, I recommend I VISA, but be careful about using agencies in general as there are many fake websites and scams. Use this link for 5% off .

When is the Best Time to Visit India?

The best time to visit depends on where you plan to go. Winter is overall the best time to visit weather-wise for north/central India. March – May is the best time to visit the hills of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and May – September is the best time to visit Ladakh in the himalayas. There is some benefit to travelling India during monsoon (July – September) to benefit from fewer crowds and lower prices.

How Much does Travel in India Cost?

At the budget end of the spectrum you can get by in India on around 1500 – 2000 Rupees (20-27 USD) per day if you’re staying in hostels and eating simple street food / thalis. That won’t get you far in the cities though (especially Mumbai and Delhi) where hotel prices are high. Inflation in India is currently at 5% and prices are on the up. Visiting lots of monuments will push your budget.

Mid range can be anything from 2500 – 5000 Rupees per day where you can stay in mid range hotels, pay for private guided tours at monuments and travel in air conditioned train classes or by taxi.

On the Luxury End , the sky is the limit! Luxury hotels go from anything from $100 per night to rooms at the Taj lake palace which are around $900 per night. If you want to live like a king / queen in India, bring deep pockets and all the red carpets shall be rolled out, or board one of India’s fine luxury trains.

Where are the Best Places to Visit in India?

There are many answers to that question, so I’ve put together a list with some ideas month – by – month over here . Some of my favourite places in India include:

– Ladakh (Himalayas) – Kerala – Karnataka – Maharashtra – North East India

Further Resources for Travel in India

This site contains a lot of India travel blogs about different places to explore and things to do in India.

Safety tips for solo female travellers in India
Our Comprehensive guides to beautiful Goa , Rajasthan , Kerala , Mumbai and Delhi .
Everything you ever wanted to know (or didn’t) about train travel in India
Have spiritual growth / a spot of yoga in mind? Read more about Rishikesh , India’s yoga capital.
We use Lonely Planet travel guides and love that they include sustainable suggestions. Get the latest India guides here .
Check out our complete guide to what to wear in India here .
Stock up on books to get your Indian Odyssey started. How about Shantaram , Passage to India or Midnight’s Children ?

“The Indians are the Italians of Asia. It can be said, certainly, with equal justice, that the Italians are the Indians of Europe, but you do understand me, I think. There is so much Italian in the Indians, and so much Indians in the Italians. They are both people of the Madonna – they demand a goddess, even if the religion does not provide one. Every man in both countries is a singer when he is happy, and every woman is a dancer when she walks to the shop at the corner. For them, food is music inside the body, and music is food inside the heart. The Language of India and the language of Italy, they make every man a poet, and make something beautiful from every banalite. They are nations where love – amore, pyaar – makes a cavalier of a Borsalino on a street corner, and makes a princess of a peasant girl, if only for the second that her eyes meet yours.” Gregory David Roberts, Shantaram

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Soul Travel India

Passionate about all things India travel - journeys of transformation and discovery, local experiences, and getting under the skin of India.

India Tours & Vacations

Travellers looking at a shrine carving with their guide in Delhi, India

There’s probably no other country on the planet that blazes its way into your memory like India.

Years later, you can still hear the morning calls of the chai wallahs; see smoke curling over the Ganges during a golden Varanasi sunrise , and smell the rich aromas of simmering curry. A lot of India tours rush from highlight to highlight, ticking them off in a blur of temples and tikka. But not us. Our India holidays are more about spotting Bengal tigers in Ranthambhore or Panna National Park, hanging with nomads in Jaisalmer, meeting the holy men of Pushkar, or hunting down the best street eats. This isn’t just the India you see on postcards. This is India as it is. Raw, bizarre and totally addictive.

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India at a glance, capital city.

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1.408 billion

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Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about India

Best time to visit india.

Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March. During the coolest months (December-January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night. The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.

Learn more about the best time to visit India

Culture and customs

India is one of the world’s oldest civilizations with a culture steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. Religion also plays a massive role in everyday life with 80% of the population practicing Hinduism while the remaining 20% is divided into Muslim (India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population), Christian, Sikhism and Buddhist populations.

At its core, India remains a deeply conservative nation; however, it has been touched by rapid modernization and Western influences in recent years. Some families still adhere to a traditional structure (especially in more rural areas) with generations living under the same roof, the eldest male at the head of the family and arranged marriages. But this is becoming less and less popular, particularly in larger cities, where Western ideas and societal shifts heavily influence the culture due to things like Bollywood films.

While some behavioral standards remain the same (public displays of affection are still taboo), it’s important to keep in mind that with more than one billion people speaking over 122 languages across 28 states and seven territories, it’s impossible to describe one unified culture for the entire nations and the character of India’s people can vary greatly from city to city.

Witness India's multi-faceted culture firsthand on a Delhi to Goa adventure - 15 days

Top places to visit in India

Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular and soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed! Wander around Agra on our 3 day Taj Mahal Extension or on our 15 day Real Kathmandu to Delhi tour.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. You'll undoubtedly fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cozy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell. Get lost in the beauty of Udaipur on our 15 day Rajasthan Experience or on our 15 day Classic Rajasthan tour.

3. Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquillity of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India). Go wildlife spotting on our 14 day Premium India in Depth tour or on our 10 day Northern India Family Holiday.

4. Kerala Backwaters

Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis deep within India's colorful chaos. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf. Explore the Kerala Backwaters on our 13 day Premium South India tour or on our 13 day Classic South India tour.

5. Varanasi

Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell. Experience Varanasi's holiness on our 4 day Varanasi Homestay Extension , on our 11 day India Getaway or on our 11 day Real North India adventure.

This holy desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town. Embark on a pilgrimage on our 22 day North India Revealed tour or on our 15 day Cycle Rajasthan tour.

Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewelry. Snack your way through Mumbai on our 15 day India Real Food Adventure .

8. Dharamsala

The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple. Soak up the Tibetan culture on our 13 day Mountains & Mystics of India tour.

9. Rishikesh

Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples. Meditate in Rishikesh on our 19 day Best of India tour.

Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavors!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook. Experience Goa on our 37 day Iconic India tour or on our 16 day South India Revealed tour.

The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city its 'Pink City' nickname. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewelry, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal. Marvel at Jaipur's pink-hued streets on our 8 day India's Golden Triangle tour or on our 12 day India Women's Expedition.

Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family. Explore Mysore on our 15 day Southern India tour.

Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side. Experience the chaos of Delhi on our 15 day Delhi to Kathmandu tour or on our 9 day North India Highlights tour.

14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambiance before sleeping in a comfy permanent tent under the stars. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure. Soak into the sand on our 16 day Real Rajasthan tour or on our 11 day Rajasthan Adventure .

Food and drink

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating. Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Indian food is one of the world's most favored cuisines, and travelers will be in for a real treat when visiting India. Relying heavily on spices and vegetables, vegetarians will be delighted with the multitude of meat-free dishes available and visitors will be able to notice marked differences in the cuisines of each region.

Geography and environment

India shares land borders with Bangladesh , China , Pakistan, Nepal , Myanmar and Bhutan , and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains - the Himalayas of the north, the deserts and plains of the west, the fertile waterways of the south and the hills and forests of the east. Development is occurring at a rapid pace, with India's large, sprawling cities consisting of everything from five star hotels to shanty towns, and with modern malls and cinemas sitting comfortably alongside bazaars and street food vendors. A trip through India will reveal a diverse range of landscapes, villages, cities and environments.

History and government

Early history.

Humans have inhabited India for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilizations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Empires rose and fell over the centuries, with the wealthy Mughal Dynasty ruling most of India by 1600. At the same time, different European nations started showing an interest in India after being brought to the area for trade. The Portuguese, Dutch, British and French all had vested interests in India, with the British East India Company being given the rights to trade in India in 1617. The 1857 rebellion and War of Independence culminated in the decline of Mughal rule and were considered the first movements against the British Raj's heavy-handed rule of the country.

Recent history

By the 1920s, India's independence movement had grown considerably with Mohandas Gandhi leading mass movements based on passive resistance and non-cooperation against the British Raj. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence in 1947. More recently, India has seen dramatic societal changes mainly due to modernization and globalization. A new wave of prosperity has seen the rise of the middle class, with men and women entering into new work roles in telecommunications, manufacturing and business. India's large cities are dealing with the mass migration of rural citizens, who are moving to the city to seek better employment, education and opportunities for their children.

Top 10 sensory experiences of India

1. potent pleasures.

Breathe in the intoxicating aroma of fresh spices while wandering through the bustling markets of India. Cardamom, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices of the subcontinent and aren't hard to find - the fresh scent envelopes markets across the country.

2. Fiery flavours

Treat your tastebuds to the spicy flavors of India with a traditional aromatic curry. Indulge in the heady mix of coconut milk, chili, ginger, ghee and spices, then cool down by sipping on a refreshing Lassi - the perfect antidote to the unrelenting heat of an Indian curry.

3. Colourful chaos

Experience the urban cacophony of Delhi - a unique collision of cultures, cattle and people. Hear the rumble of cars, trucks and buses, the frantic calls of street vendors and hawkers, the sizzle of food and the rustic ring of a cow's bell in this unforgettable and irrepressible city.

4. In the pink

Admire the dazzling pink hues of Jaipur. Watch the historic palaces, forts, temples and monuments of the 'Pink City' be bathed in a dusky pink glow as the golden sun sets over the dramatic Aravalli Range.

5. Rat race

Walk barefoot through the Karni Mata Temple as thousands of rats scamper across the marble floor. Just felt a furry rodent scurry over your feet? Fear not - it's a sign of good luck in this unique rat-worshipping temple.

6. Instant karma

Experience the multi-sensory wonder of an Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. Hear the clanging of bells, watch the luminous glow of fire, smell wafts of pungent incense and hear rousing devotional songs and mantras. Be immersed in the fire and prayer of this Hindu ritual and be changed forever.

7. Gorgeous Goa

Sit beachside in Goa and gaze into the sublime beauty of the ocean. Take a moment to kick back and soak up the clear skies and deep blue sea of this exotic island. Watch the sun's rays shimmer on the horizon and bask in the golden glow of this balmy retreat.

8. Silky sophistication

For a slice of extravagance, feel the soft, luxurious touch of traditional Indian silk. Made in a variety of vibrant colors and perfect for making everything from saris to prayer mats and decorative hangings to upholstery, the inimitable feel of finely crafted silk is a simple pleasure in life.

9. Answered prayers

Hear the flutter of prayer flags as they flap in the wind near the isolated monasteries of Dharamsala. In a stark environment of rugged, mountainous landscapes, quietness permeates the air, except for the unique sound of prayer flags collecting prayers and sending them to the heavens above.

10. Big screen brilliance

Be treated to a feast for the senses at a bombastic Bollywood movie screening. Covet the glamorous costumes, marvel at the energetic choreography and delight in the lively music. Revel in the razzle-dazzle of the whole spectacle and be swept away by the irresistible charm of India's triumphant cinematic phenomenon.

India's fragrant bazaars, modern boutiques and village markets are brimming with wares harnessing centuries of artistic traditions. With talented artisans and top quality items at low prices, India is a shopper's paradise. It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in India

From big, chunky ornate silver earrings to vibrant bangles and bold statement rings, India's silversmiths and jewelry makers ensure there are lots of pieces to choose from in the bazaars and shops.

2. Wraps, scarves and shawls

Whether you're looking for pricey pashmina, luxurious silk or colorful cotton, India has a huge variety of materials to wrap yourself in.

If you're lucky enough to be able to bring tea into your home country, then pick up some of the world's finest tea from the Darjeeling, Assam or Nilgiri regions.

Indian cotton sheets, embroidered bedspreads and colorful cushion covers can be picked up in bazaars at a fraction of the price paid elsewhere.

Many shops are open between 9 am and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, though hours can vary at bazaars. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Festivals and events in India

Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervor of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are:

Holi (Festival of Colour)

Take a whole lot of colored powder and water, add thousands of happy people not afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty and you have Holi – a technicolor Hindu celebration that marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations take place across India in either February or March.

Diwali (Festival of Lights)

India’s biggest festival – meaning ‘rows of lighted lamps’, people decorate their homes with colorful lights, candles are lit and firework displays take place across the country. The celebrations are particularly spectacular in Varanasi, where illuminated candles and earthen lamps are floated down the Ganges River as fireworks light up the sky. This five-day festival takes place every October or November.

Gujarat Kite Festival

Large, colorful and unusual kites flood the skies of Gujarat each January to commemorate the start of summer and the beginning of harvest. Purchase your own at Patang Bazaar, a famous kite market, or just watch the others dance through the sky.

Mumbai Ganesh Festival

The birth of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is celebrated for 10-days each August or September in cities across India, but Mumbai takes it to another level. An incredible energy can be felt throughout the city as people pack the streets for a massive party and an elaborate statue of Ganesh is paraded around.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Thousands of camels (and their owners dressed in their finest garb) descend upon Rajasthan's Pushkar for the annual camel fair. Camels are traded and raced, acrobats and performers entertain crowds at a nearby fair, while finely dressed males and bejeweled females take the chance to let their hair down.

Learn more about festivals in India

India travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is it safe to travel to India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes, but it's generally a safe country for travelers and many people enjoy their time without any problems.

Is it safe for women to travel in India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes but most travellers enjoy their time in India without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveler should keep in mind when traveling through India to minimize their chances of running into any trouble.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, all foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 22/06/2023

Is tipping customary in India?

While traveling through India, on a tour or otherwise, it’s expected one would tip porters, drivers, restaurant staff and other service workers given the low wages they earn.

What is the internet access like in India?

Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India tour.

If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your tour begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travelers. You’ll need to a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable given the competition.

Can I use my cell phone while in India?

Yes, you’ll be able to use your cell phone while on an India tour, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

India’s unit of currency is the rupee:

Cup of tea = INR 7-10
Small bottle of beer = INR 150-350
Meal at a local restaurant (thali, masala dosa or similar) = INR 100-200
Meal in a tourist restaurant = INR 350-600

Can I drink the tap water in India?

India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now – let your inner child rejoice!

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Credit cards are being accepted in an increasing number of cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels in India, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. That said, cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.

What is ATM access like in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Mastercard are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

What is the weather like in India?

The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December–February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March–May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.

What public holidays are celebrated in India?

India has different classifications of holidays because of the multitude of faiths in the country. There are compulsory holidays and then various others chosen by government offices within each state. The following are the compulsory ‘gazetted holidays’ taken by government offices across India:

26 Jan: Republic Day
Feb/Mar: Maha Shivaratri*
Mar/Apr: Rama Navami*
Apr: Mahavir Jayanti*
Mar/Apr: Good Friday*
May: Buddha’s Birthday*
May: Eid ul-Fitr (end of Ramadan)*
Jul/Aug: Eid ul-Adha*
15 Aug: Independence Day
Aug/Sep: Janmashtami*
Aug/Sep: Islamic New Year*
Sep/Oct: Dussehra*
Oct: Birth of the Prophet Mohammed*
2 Oct: Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday
Oct/Nov: Diwali*
Nov: Guru Nanak Jayanti*
25 Dec: Christmas Day

* Please note, India public holidays may vary.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The majority of Indian society is still conservative, and while most travelers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in more remote towns and villages which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples (and couples of all other sexual orientations) as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

Is India accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in India

What you decide to pack and wear in India will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The weather across India usually follows the monsoon cycle, so it’s quite easy to plan what to pack when it comes to rain, but temperatures will vary quite a bit from the north to the south.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to: Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to: Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to: US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

How will I be traveling around India?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in India, you may find yourself traveling by Jeep.

Safari through jungles and national parks aboard a jeep, which is ideal for conquering the difficult terrain and offers supreme wildlife viewing opportunities.

Cruising the waterways of India is a revealing, inspiring experience. Whether it’s the iconic Ganges or peaceful Kerala backwaters, seeing India from the water is a must.

Traveling by train is one of the great experiences of India. It's a system which looks like chaos, but it works - and well.

Use the efficient metro to get around the sights and suburbs of Delhi.

Zip around the big cities of India by auto rickshaw.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in India you may find yourself staying in a homestay.

Make new friends, feast on authentic home cooking and receive kind hospitality while staying with friendly families in India.

With walks, wildlife spotting and adventure sports nearby, staying in a jungle resort is the perfect way to see another side of India.

From ex-royal palaces to historic hill stations and converted forts, India is full of heritage properties that have been turned into comfortable accommodation with an old-world touch.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to India support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to India directly support our foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life.

Positive Change for Marine Life

Positive Change for Marine Life nurtures ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives. Donations help them expand and implement vital programs in India that empower local communities, support sustainable fishing practices, restore marine habitats and drive policy change. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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"I'll show you how to navigate the buzzing cities of India, and go beyond to find soul-stirring temples, beautiful mountains and irresistible food."

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Navigate the busy streets of Old Delhi on a rickshaw ride

The nation's capital rings to the sounds of car horns, chai stalls and the chatter of its 29 million inhabitants. Shuffle into an open-air rickshaw and ride through the streets of the Old Delhi, admiring traditional Havelis and stopping for a famous mango or pomegranate frozen kulfi to cool off in the summer.

Gaze at the sun-kissed Taj Mahal in Agra

Take a journey to Agra and be stirred by the ultimate symbol of fairy-tale architecture. Inlaid with precious gemstones, this ivory marble palace was originally commissioned by an emperor as a tomb for his wife, standing as a symbol of love and opulence since 1653.

Spot tigers in Ranthambore National Park

Clamber into the back of an open-top safari car and spot leopards, marsh crocodiles, hyenas and Bengal tigers wandering their natural habitat. Sprawling over almost 300km 2 , the Ranthambore National Park is also home to a 10th-century fort, giant banyan trees and many lakes.

Experience royal Rajasthan

Enthralling cities interrupt the inhospitable desert in Rajasthan, India's largest state. Home to around 30 royal palaces including the floating lake palace of Udaipur and the iconic peach palace of Hawa Mahal, you will be swept up by the regal heritage found in this part of India.

Visit one of the Bollywood studios in Mumbai

Take a journey into the metropolis of Mumbai to uncover the prestigious culture of the Indian film industry. Without knowing a word of Hindi or a single Bollywood film, you will be captivated by this passionate industry. Be guided past the homes of megastars and catch a glimpse behind the scenes as the cameras roll.

Our top 5 things to do in India

Let Trafalgar guide your India vacation through a majestic tapestry of landmarks and experience. From the Taj Mahal to the tiger parks of Rajasthan, these are just some of the soul-stirring moments waiting when you travel with us.

National Museum

India vacation tours get under the skin of the country's culture with a trip to the National Museum of New Delhi. Roam the halls and take in elaborate jewellery, ancient manuscripts and traditional miniature paintings on cloth. From the prehistoric to the modern, this expansive Indian museum is a must-visit.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

The King Shivaji museum, or CSMVS, is a pride of Mumbai showcasing around 50,000 exhibitions within an impressive Indo-gothic building. After taking in archaeology, art and natural history, spend time in the tranquil, flower-filled gardens that contrast the bustle of Mumbai.

City Palace

Taking almost 400 years to be built, the City Palace of Udaipur is an architectural masterpiece beside Lake Pichola. Enter the museum section of the palace complex via the royal courtyard, allowing plenty of time to immerse in the artefacts of India's distant past.

Best museums in India

Step off the streets and find a moment of quiet in a spellbinding museum. Here are just a few of the places we will visit in India to peel back the many layers of culture.

A thin fried bread mentioned in 12th-century Sanskrit scriptures, paratha is part of India's cultural heritage. Try it stuffed with spinach, fenugreek and the cheese of paneer, or take it on its own for lapping up the leftover gravy from a delectable curry.

Varan Bhaat Diva

Popular along the sunny coastline of Goa, Varan Bhaat Diva is Indian comfort food of peas, beans, rice and many spices. Often given to those who are exhausted or sick, you will feel soothed by the warmth and turmeric in this family favorite.

Chicken cafreal

Inspired by the dishes brought from Portugal during colonial times, the herb coated chicken legs of cafreal will cement your infatuation with Indian cuisine. Shallow fried and often served with potato and wedges of citrus fruit, India tour packages aren't complete until cafreal is served.

Best food in India

Despite the many famous dishes that have journeyed far from the lands of India, this country still has culinary delights that will rouse your tastebuds. From warm bread to fragrant curries, we'll guide you through the secrets of this spicy land.

What to pack for India

A few good books

The Indian rail network chuffs for 65,000 kilometres around India. A geographically large company with relatively slow transport systems, a few books can keep you entertained between admiring scenery.

Light and modest clothing

Though India does get cooler than most expect, many parts of the year are intensely hot. Pack sheer, light clothing that covers you right to the ankles, wrists and neck so that you can respectfully visit religious sites without sweltering.

Medication for stomach upsets

Though our India group tours will see you largely protected from unsanitary food or water, it is still handy to keep a supply of medication on hand. Charcoal tablets can be taken daily as a preventive measure to ensure any nasties are quickly expelled from your system.

Water purification devices

The purification of water has come a long way in recent years. Make your way to a specialist travel shop to discuss bottles, gadgets and tablets that will ensure you stay hydrated without falling ill.

Wet wipes and hand sanitiser

True to its reputation, India can be a hot and messy place. Pack wet wipes and hand sanitiser to ensure you feel fresh when you're on the go.

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Mysteries of India

About this tour.

From the iconic tigers of Ranthambore to the legendary Taj Mahal, step into a world of captivating mysteries and vibrant color. Explore Old Delhi on an exhilarating city tour, weaving through the streets on a rickshaw. Join a local family for an unforgettable home-hosted dinner. Walk on the wild side in Ranthambore National Park and seek out its most popular residents: Bengal tigers. Stand in awe before the Taj Mahal in the early morning. Ignite your spirit during the holy Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi. Welcome to India - a perfect synthesis of nature, vitality, spirituality, and regal legacy.

Your Tour Includes

7 Handpicked Accommodations
2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

Your tour at a glance.

13 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Explorations

On Tour Air

Customize your tour.

$1,049.00 pp

Optional Excursions

Starting at $20.00

Activity Level

Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

On tour air included.

The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Watch for tigers in the wild during game drives in Ranthambore National Park.

Cruise the waters of the famous River Ganges.

Explore the majestic Amber Fort and vibrant Jaipur, the “Pink City.”

Behold the Taj Mahal at sunrise.

Cultural Experiences:

Travel to Khajuraho on an exciting train journey.

Venture through the main streets and back roads of Old Delhi via rickshaw.

Marvel at the illuminated Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Culinary Inclusions:

Learn the secrets to preparing incredible Indian food at a home-hosted dinner.

Home-Hosted Dinner
Ranthambore National Park
Choice on Tour: Dastkar Ranthambore Visit or Time at Leisure
Abhaneri Stepwell
Chandela Temple Complex
Ganga Aarti Ceremony

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Pre and Post Tour Extensions

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Tour Extensions

"Begin your exploration with a pre-tour Dubai extension. See one of the world’s fastest growing and most intriguing cities. With its many famous man-made structures, Dubai is a must-see destination for any traveler. Enjoy magnificent views of the world famous Burj Al Arab hotel. See the Jumeirah Mosque and Dubai Creek. View the Al Bastakia old wind-towered houses built by wealthy merchants. Stop at Al Fahidi Fort, now the Dubai Museum. Travel by abra, a traditional water taxi. Embark on an exciting desert safari and ride aboard 4x4 vehicles over rolling sand dunes through the Dubai desert. Your other option is to book a pre night stay? Hosted You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

Overnight Flight
Your tour begins with an overnight flight to Dubai.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Tour Begins
Arrive in Dubai, one of the world’s most exciting destinations. Your day is at leisure to relax or explore this dynamic and cosmopolitan city independently. As one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is considered the shopping capital of the Middle East. With its many world-famous man-made structures built in recent years, Dubai is a must-see destination for any traveler and will surely be an experience you will always remember.
Today, take a private 4x4 vehicle for a light dune drive through the desert. Later in the morning, stop at a flamingo hide where you’ll see wild flamingos mingle in their sanctuary. Then, visit the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood where a local guide will take you on a walking tour to see the sites. Along the way, stop at the coffee museum before heading to Sheikh Mohammad Cultural Centre of Understanding (SMCCU). While visiting SMCCU, enjoy a cultural Arabic lunch followed by a Q & A session hosted by a local. The rest of the day is yours at leisure.
This morning, visit the Dubai Museum – located in the oldest existing building in Dubai – then head to the Al Shindagha Museum located on the waterfront. After, venture across the creek in a private Abra and visit the Spice and Gold Souk to get a closer look at local life and culture found in Dubai. Next, make photo stops at two of Dubai's landmark buildings – the Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Mosque. This afternoon, take an optional tour to visit Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building.
Dubai - Delhi, India
Board your flight to Delhi.

Continue your tour with a 5-night extension in Nepal. Here, you’ll spend time with an expert local guide as you wander through the beloved Thamel neighborhood and visit 2 UNESCO sites over the next few days. Speak with a local Everest climber, get a taste of the local flavors, visit the living incarnation of a goddess – Kumari, see a Buddhist monastery, and explore famous temples like Nyatapola. To celebrate the end of your adventures in Nepal, sit down with a local family for a delicious home-hosted meal. Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

Varanasi - Delhi
After your return to Delhi, bid farewell to your fellow travelers who are returning home. This evening you will overnight in Delhi before getting a fresh start on your Nepalese adventure tomorrow morning.
Delhi - Kathmandu, Nepal
Step into a world of dynamic locals and bustling streets as you feel the energy of Kathmandu – Nepal’s vibrant capital that will ensnare the senses. With an expert local guide, discover the beloved Thamel neighborhood, mingling amongst locals and mountain climbers alike. Perhaps you’ll chat with a street vendor or pop into an inviting shop, perusing the goods for the perfect souvenir. End your day with a discussion with a local Everest climber. Finally, get a taste of the local flavors and enjoy dinner in a nearby restaurant.
Perhaps you will take an early morning optional flightseeing tour of iconic Mount Everest, getting an up-close look at the world’s highest peak. Today, stand in awe before Swaymabhunath, the Buddhist temple that is home to holy monkeys. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Patan Darbar Square (UNESCO), a famous temple complex that was restored after the devastating earthquake of 2015. Make your way through the square and visit with Kumari, a local girl who is worshipped as the living incarnation of a goddess. Attend a private audience with the revered girl in her temple and take part in a blessing ceremony. Later, spend time at Bodhnath Stupa, an iconic Himalayan temple.
Kathmandu - Panauti - Dhulikhel - Kathmandu
Today, travel to Panauti, the gateway to the Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery. After we arrive in Panauti, embark on a moderate one-hour hike, enjoying the views of the mountains before arriving at this Buddhist monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Nepal. With a history connected to the legend of the Sacrifice for the Tigress, the monastery is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Buddhists and Hindus today. Here, we will meet with the high Lama and partake in an offering ceremony. After your experience at the monastery, continue to a local restaurant for lunch and then transfer to Kathmandu where the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy.
Kathmandu - Bhaktapur - Kathmandu
Travel to Bhaktapur today, the former stronghold of the Malla Dynasty. Having remained virtually unchanged since the 17th century, Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square received the title of UNESCO historical site and is one of the most intact ancient cities in Nepal. See famous temples such as the Nyatapola Temple and stroll through the city’s narrow streets to explore its many historical sites. After a guided visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to Kathmandu. This evening, join a local family for a home-hosted meal and celebrate the end of your adventure in the Himalayan nation of Nepal.
Kathmandu - Delhi - Extension Ends
Today, board your flight to Delhi where a room has been reserved for you to freshen up before your flight home.

Hotel-The Suryaa New Delhi

Climb aboard your tuk tuk and travel to impressive Itmad-ud-Daula, a Mughal mausoleum. This is the first mausoleum made completely of marble, the same kind that was used for the Taj Mahal. This monument may be smaller than the Taj Mahal, but it is just as remarkable. The tomb is often described as a “draft” of the world-famous Taj Mahal and has been nicknamed "Baby Taj." Continue on to behold the mysteriously beautiful Taj Mahal at sunset. Stop at Mahtab Bagh – the “Moonlight Garden” on the banks of the Yamuna River opposite the Taj Mahal – for a picture perfect view of the ornate white structure surrounded by the vibrant colors of the setting sun and see for yourself why it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Conclude your evening with dinner at a nearby local restaurant.

Venture to the amazing vantage point of Ranthambore Fort, a fortress atop a hill within a prominent tiger reserve. Hike up the steps of the 10th-century fort enclosed by a magnificent stone wall. Explore its elaborate ruins, including palaces, monuments, and temples. See the daily rituals that take place today at the famous Trinetra Ganesha Temple, dedicated to the beloved elephant god. Enjoy a traditional tea or coffee with cookies during your exploration. And don’t forget a good pair of binoculars – the view of Ranthambore National Park from atop the fort practically puts you eye-to-eye with soaring eagles.

Accommodations

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Pre Night: The Suryaa New Delhi From $100 per night

The Suryaa New Delhi

Radisson jaipur city center, grand mercure agra.

Nights 9-10

Radisson Jass Hotel Khajuraho

Radisson hotel varanasi.

Nights 12-13

Lemon Tree Premier, Delhi Airport

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24 Best Places to Visit in India on Your First Trip in 2024 | India’s Top Tourist Destinations Guide

Categories Asia , India

India is a huge country so when it comes to planning a trip to India , especially your first trip to India , you may be lost as to where to go in India and where the best places to visit in India are!

Although there are so many places to visit in India , not all of them are places for tourists to visit in India , a lot of Indian cities and towns do not have tourism infrastructure so it’s good to know exactly where to travel as a tourist in India!

Based on that and my extensive travels around India, here are 24 best places to visit in India on your first trip to India because they are places set up for tourism in India ! This list gives you a mix of famous cities in Rajasthan, mountain towns in Northern India and beach villages in South India so you can work out what you want from a trip to India and plan your India itinerary accordingly.

Best Places to Visit in India

Best time to visit India

Before we get into this India travel blog, it’s worth thinking about the best time to visit India as the country get’s very hot and wet in the middle of the year. November to March are the best times to visit both North & South India .

South India will be warmer than North India in the winter months of December and January, Delhi and further North actually get cold in these months but are still enjoyable to visit with the right clothing.

Outside these months, you can still visit but you’ll find that the heat and humidity will be much higher, especially as you go further South.

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

Best Places to Visit in North India

Mumbai is such a different city to other cities in Northern India, it’s much more cosmopolitan and modern and it has a great vibe around it, not to mention that it’s really safe, so it’s perfect for first-time travellers to India. In fact, I really recommend that you start your trip in Mumbai rather than Delhi like I did , especially if you are a bit worried about visiting India as it is not as intense.

Things to do in Mumbai:

In Mumbai, you can visit the Gateway of India, get an insight into Asia’s biggest slum , enjoy the sunset on the beach with locals, go on a street food tour, eat in the famous Shantaram Cafe, and you can do all of this by using Uber which is a very popular and easy way of getting around Mumbai, or by taking the local train which is easy to use and very cheap.

Mumbai Travel Tip: I’m not saying don’t get a train in rush hour but what I will say is that if you do, be prepared to get sweaty and have a local experience!

Related Post: A Full Guide to Colaba – The Best Area to Stay in Mumbai!

best places to visit in India, sunrise at gateway of India Mumbai

2. Jaisalmer

If you need a break from the big cities of Northern India, Jaisalmer is a good place to visit for backpackers in India and a unique place to visit in India due to it being located in the Thar Desert and Jaisalmer Fort is not only open for visitors but the Old City is located inside the Fort!

Things to do in Jaisalmer:

Aside from exploring Jaisalmer Fort, the best thing about visiting Jaisalmer is the Desert Tours which give you the chance to explore the Thar Desert, sleep under the stars and wake up to a Desert sunrise.

Book now and Explore the Desert in Style with Luxury Overnight Camping in Jaisalmer in Thar desert

Jaisalmer Travel Tip: If you want to go out on a camel you can (just be sure to question and check they are being looked after well), but if a camel tour in Jaisalmer isn’t for you, you can still do a 4X4 desert trip which will get you into the desert a bit quicker and will be less painful!

best places to visit in India, Jaisalmer Fort

Pushkar is a backpackers dream, it’s small and chilled with good healthy international food, juice shops, really good shopping for cheap prices, many different places to watch the sunset and although it is very popular with Indian Tourists as a holiday destination in India because of the Holy Lake and its Temples, it’s a place that you will definitely bump into other travellers in.

Things to do in Pushkar:

There are so many sunset spots in Pushkar you’ll need to be there for 3 nights to see them all. Make sure you get blessed by Pushkar Lake but don’t get ripped off. Enjoy the healthy food , do some yoga and meditation, and if you like to smoke some special stuff, you’ll likely find it here in Pushkar!

Pushkar Travel Tip: Pushkar is a purely Vegetarian town with no eggs and no alcohol either which some people won’t mind but others will!

Related Post: 14 Things To Do in Pushkar.

best places to visit in India, View of Pushkar from Pap Mochani Temple

Can you go to India and not see the Taj Mahal? Well, I have written about that in more detail in this post , but to give you a quick answer – no, I don’t think you can unless it’s seriously out of your way (like you’re travelling to South India and not North India) but if you’re visiting places in Northern India, you need to visit Agra !

Agra is only a 2 hour journey away from Delhi by train so it’s really accessible and if you did only want to spend 1 day in Agra or do a day visit from Delhi to Agra logistically it is possible but it will be a long day so I suggest staying at least one night in Agra.

Things to do in Agra:

Of course, seeing the Taj Mahal is the top tourist attraction in Agra but there are more things to do in Agra like seeing Agra Fort, the Baby Taj and there are a few cool sunset spots in Agra too!

Take a journey through time and explore the architectural gems of Agra with a city tour that includes visits to the Taj Mahal, Mausoleum, and Agra Fort.

Agra Travel Tip: The Taj Mahal is closed on Friday’s so do not plan your trip there then!

Related Post: 7 Ways to See The Taj Mahal Without Going Inside the Taj Mahal!

best places to visit in India, Taj Mahal at Sunrise

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

5. Varanasi

A city like no other in the world, Varanasi is the city where life meets death, where death is celebrated, where bodies are burnt in full view of people to see and to top it off it’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and one of the best places to visit in North India .

Things to do in Varanasi:

Make sure you take a sunrise boat trip out on the Ganges and witness both the morning and evening aarti on the side of the river Ganges, and a visit to the burning ghat is a must-do in Varanasi. Varanasi is not all old, there are some nice cafes in Varanasi, especially near Assi Ghat which is also a good place to stay, and a very famous Lassi Shop – Blue Lassi Shop.

Book now and discover the history and heritage of Varanasi with these tour that takes you to the city’s ancient sites.

Varanasi Travel Tip: If you can, try to go to Varanasi at the end of your India trip or visit once you have been to a few other places in India because it can be quite intense it will be even more so if Varanasi is one of the first or second places in India you visit.

Related Post: 2 Day Itinerary for Varanasi | Things To Do!

boat trip on River Ganges Varanasi | best places to visit in India

6. Rishikesh

Another one of the best places for backpackers to visit in India is Rishikesh because it’s a backpackers dream! Rishikesh is the home of yoga with yoga being offered in many places during the morning and evening, and it has been famous for travellers since The Beatles stayed in an Ashram there in the ’60s, which you can still visit today !

Things to do in Rishikesh:

Rishikesh is full of amazing places to eat offering Indian Food as well as high-quality international food and plenty of Vegetarian and Vegan options.

It has Waterfalls, Temples, the River Ganges to walk along, massage places, and Rishikesh offers an array of courses like Yoga, Chakra Healing, Tantra and if you fancy taking yourself off to an Ashram for a week, Rishikesh has plenty of Ashrams in and around it.

Cleanse that negative energy away and book the Yoga Retreat in India at Abhayaranya Yoga Ashram

Rishikesh Travel Tip: Days roll into each other in Rishikesh, especially if you fancy doing a course, some serious yoga, or serious chilling, so be sure to plan a good few days there.

Related Post: A Travel Guide to Rishikesh – Yoga, Cafes, Accommodation, Things To Do!

Rishkiesh River Ganges and mountains | best places to visit in India

7. Amritsar

In order to see the state and the rich culture of Punjab , and try the food of Punjab, you need to visit Amritsar.

Things to do in Amritsar:

The Golden Temple is the most popular tourist attraction in Amritsar because it’s the most important Sikh Temple in India, and in the world, this along with going to the Wagah Border which is the border of India and Pakistan.

Punjab is known for its food so join a street food tour too and learn some history about the India and Pakistan divide at the partition museum.

Indulge in the local culture of Amritsar with these tours that takes you to the city’s best top sight attractions

Amritsar Travel Tip: 2 days maximum is enough time to spend in Amritsar.

Related Post: Tips for Visiting Amritsar’s Golden Temple and the Wagah Border Ceremony!

Golden Temple and Lake | best places to visit in India

8. Kumbhalgarh

This is a good place to visit in the Indian Countryside if you need some quietness and want to see a different side to India to the cities! You will need to hire a car and a driver to get here but it’s easy to get to as it’s between Jodphur and Udaipur and it’s the place to visit in India for quietness!

Things to do in Kumbhalgarh:

Going on a jeep safari is the most popular thing to do in Kumbhalgarh, I saw a bear on my safari! Kumbhalgarh has the biggest Fort in India and its wall is the second-longest in the world with the Great Wall of China beating it!

There are many resorts to stay in here, I stayed in the Shahpura Kumbhal Resort which I recommend, some are luxury so if you want a more luxurious break in India, this is the place to do it, but there are also more budget-friendly places .

Kumbhalgarh Travel Tip: Hire a driver to take you there rather than relying on the public bus.

Related Post: Shahpura Kumbhal Villas in Kumbhalgarh Review!

swimming pool and mountains at Shahpura Kumbhal | best places to visit in India

9. Calcutta

Calcutta or Kolkata as it’s also known as is not visited by most backpackers on their trip around India but it is a really unique Indian city rich in History and Culture . Plus, if you are coming from South East Asia or going to South East Asia after India, because of its Eastern Location in India, it’s a good place to fly out of India from.

Things to do in Calcutta:

Calcutta is a city that feels like it’s been held back in time and the best way to see Calcutta is to appreciate its architecture at places like Victoria Memorial , the Indian Museum and Dakshineswar And Kalighat Temple . Another popular thing to do close to Calcutta is to visit the Sundarban National Park which sits in Bangladesh mainly but also slightly in India.

Explore Kolkata’s Best Sights with a Private Tour and Book here!

Calcutta Travel Tip: If you fancy travelling to North East India which has a lot to offer and you want to do something more adventurous on your first trip to India, Calcutta is a good base to do this from.

Calcutta Building | best places to visit in India

10. Dharamshala

Located at the base of the Himalayan mountains in the state of Himachal Pradesh is the area called Dharamshala, and this is a must-visit for backpackers to India because it’s a total haven from the big main cities in India like Agra, Varanasi, Delhi, and the big cities of Rajasthan like Jaipur and Jodphur that are most visited by travellers to India .

Things to do in Dharamshala:

Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot and Bhagsu make up the Dharamshala area. Dharamkot is quite a hippy area full of yoga, healing and ecstatic dance classes and a good place to stay if you like a super chilled out vibe.

Mcleod Ganj is a good place to base yourself too as the town is small but there are plenty of restaurants and places to stay there, it has a big Tibetan Influence and is now the home of the Dalai Lama.

In Mcleod Ganj, you can visit the Dalai Lama Temple and Tibet Museum and you may even see the Dalai Lama like I did if you’re lucky! Being up here feels like you’re in a totally different Country!

Dharamshala Travel Tip: Dharamshala gets cold in the winter so you want to visit from April to October. Although note that it also gets the monsoon season in the summer months!

Related Post: Top Things To Do in Dharamshala, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamkot & Bhagsu!

Mountain view from Dharamkot | best places to visit in India

If you want adventure sports in India , Manali is another one of the popular places to visit in Himachal Pradesh and is perfect for travellers with a hippy feel to it, similar to Dharamkot and it is one of the best places to visit in India in winter .

Things to do in Manali:

Manali is the place to go hiking in India , paragliding and white water rafting, but it’s also a place to chill. There are a lot of cafes in Manali Old Town which is where I recommend staying instead of the new town. Manali is a very popular place to visit in India for Israeli travellers because it’s so relaxed.. and you can smoke there too!

Manali Travel Tip: Manali also gets very cold in the winter and gets a lot of snow. You can visit Manali in winter and take part in the snow activities which are popular with Indian tourists but be prepared for snow!

For a huge adventure, there’s route to cycle from Manali to Leh !

HELP WITH YOUR INDIA ITINERARY

I’ve spent many months travelling India in the last few years visiting over 50 places around the country, here are my recommended itinerary posts for India to help you plan your trip!

2 WEEK INDIA ITINERARY, PERFECT FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP!

2 WEEK SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY – GOA & KERELA

1 MONTH NORTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

1 MONTH SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

2 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY IN THE NORTH & SOUTH

MY 4 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY!

24 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA!

Jaipur is the Pink City of India and is part of the Golden Triangle (along with Agra and Delhi). Jaipur is truly rich in Rajasthan History and Culture and therefore it is pretty much always on the first time to India itinerary.

Things to do in Jaipur:

There are so many places to visit in Jaipur and things to do in Jaipur from Forts, Palaces, Iconic Buildings and Temples, not to mention all of the amazing Street Food that is on offer and I recommend doing a street food tour in Jaipur .

There is a cinema in Jaipur called the Rajmandir and it’s such a good place to visit as a tourist because it’s a beautiful art deco building and Indian people watching films is so funny! They shout and laugh loud and it makes for a real unique and local experience in India!

Jaipur Travel Tip: In my opinion, the best way to enjoy Jaipur is not trying to do it all!

Related Post: The Best Way To See Jaipur – The Pink City of India!

Hawal Mahal pink building in Jaipur | best places to visit in India

13. Udaipur

The Pink City of Jaipur and the Blue City of Jodhpur often get the spotlight of the best places to visit in Rajasthan , especially Jaipur because it’s part of the Golden Triangle (along with Delhi and Agra), and although they are good cities to visit in Northern India, they are very big and busy!

Udaipur on the other hand, also known as the White City of India , is much smaller and the centre of the tourist area in Udaipur is totally walkable which is the dream after being in so many Indian Cities where taxis and tuk-tuks are needed to get around because the traffic is so crazy!

Things to do in Udaipur:

In Udaipur, you can visit Temples and the famous Palace which is very impressive but you can also take courses in Yoga, Art, Cooking and so much more which makes it a great place to relax for a few days and learn something new.

Udaipur Travel Tip: There are 2 sides to Udaipur where you can stay, the area that appears to be more on an island is the quieter side than the main side.

Related Post: Tips for Visiting Udaipur’s City Palace & Doing a Boat Trip Around Lake Pichola!

Udaipur city from river boat trip | best places to visit in India

14. Jodhpur

Jodhpur is the Blue City of India and one of the top tourist attractions in Rajasthan . It’s another city that is full of culture but it is also very big and busy!

Things to do in Jodhpur:

Mehrangarh Fort is the star of Jodphur as it’s located up on a hill and the city is based around it. Mehrangarh Fort is worth going inside and visiting but the best way to see it is to go on the Flying Fox zipline in Mehrangarh Fort.

Because Jodphur is so busy I suggest making full use of the rooftop restaurants to enjoy the city views and quietness from.

Jodphur Travel Tip: Be warned now that not all of the city is blue , it’s mainly the old part of the city that is blue which is only small and quite dirty, so adjust expectations of a total blue city now !

Related Post: 6 Of The Best Way’s to See Jodhpur aka The Blue City of India!

sunset over jodhpur blue city | best places to visit in India

15. Salawas

Salawas is a village in Rajasthan, not too far from Jodphur and I recommend going here because you’ll get the best homestay experience in India by staying at Chhotaram Prajapat Homestay . I stayed here and loved it, I’ve recommended it to 3 sets of friends and they loved it too.

Things to do in Salawas:

As well as experiencing village life in the homestay the family can take you out on a village safari to see different animals, more villages and some handicraft factories. There’s also a really good sunset spot nearby. The main reason for visiting the homestay though is to totally chill out!!

Homestay Travel Tip: Make sure you book in advance as they do book up quickly.

Related Post: Incredible Homestay Experience in Rajasthan at Chhotaram Prajapat’s Homestay!

Jodhpur mut hut homestay | best places to visit in India

You really cannot visit North India and not visit Delhi. I suggest not visiting Delhi as your first place in India if you can or at least if you are worried about visiting India and even more so if you’re alone or haven’t been to many places in Asia before.

Delhi is huge, it’s loud, it’s chaotic, it’s hot most of the year, but it does offer tourists to India a lot!

Things to do in Delhi:

Delhi is full of famous and iconic monuments, temples and forts like the Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, the Lotus Temple, Hauz Kha s and Humayan’s Tomb.

Aside from seeing these iconic places in Delhi, I really recommend you join a tour like a street food tour or a cycling tour, these are on offer in Old Delhi and they are the best way to see Old Delhi as being with a guide makes all of the difference and will help you enjoy Delhi!

I also recommend trying to see South Delhi which is much more residential and chilled!

Delhi Travel Tip: You will probably know of Old Delhi and images you have in your mind of Delhi are probably from Old Delhi but it’s important to know that there’s much more to Delhi than Old Delhi!

Related Post: 10 Delhi Travel Tips to See & Enjoy Delhi as a Tourist! & Where to Stay in Delhi. Best Hotels & Hostels for all Budgets!

sunset in Old Delhi with Traffic | best places to visit in India

Best Places to Visit in South India

A lot of tourists visit India just to visit Goa and I don’t blame them! Goa has some of the best beaches in the world and it’s seriously chill, and cheap compared to many other beach destinations in Asia .

Things to do in Goa:

Goa is a state in India and there are so many Goa Beaches so the best way to see Goa is to beach hop spending a few days in a different beach village and town working your way up and down the coast! Yoga is also very popular in Goa, I did a one week yoga holiday which I loved and it’s a good place to meet fellow travellers.

If you like to party, Goa is the best place to party in India (and only place, really!), but not all of the beaches are party places in India!

Goa Travel Tip: Goa is huge with so many beaches! You can’t just visit Goa, so do some research into the best beaches in Goa first and work out which ones suit you best as some are best for families, to party, for Brits, for Russians, etc.

Related Post: The Best Beaches in Goa for Foreigners.

Palolem Beach with blue sky Goa | best places to visit in India

18. Alleppey

If you want to see the famous Backwaters of Kerala, and you should if you’re visiting South India and Kerala, then you have to visit Alleppey to see them!

Things to do in Alleppey:

To be honest there are not many things to do in Alleppey aside from seeing the backwaters of Kerala in one day or one night too if you want to get a houseboat. I recommend staying here for one night and one day maximum.

Alleppey Travel Tip: There are many different types of boat trips from houseboats to kayaking trips so make sure you look into the different options to get the best one for you and our budget.

Related Post: Cruising the Backwaters of Kerala from Alleppey!

backwaters of kerala | best places to visit in India

Munnar is home of the tea plantations in Kerala and is another must-visit place in South India and a popular place to visit in Kerala because of its tea, mountains and quietness.

Things to do in Munnar:

Hiking in Munnar is the best way to see the tea plantations, you can also visit the tea museum. Keep a lookout for wild elephants here too as they can often be seen close to the roads around Munnar.

Munnar Travel Tip: I suggest staying in accommodation in the countryside and not in the town of Munnar as it’s not a particularly nice town for tourism in South India.

Related Post: Hiking in the Tea Plantations of Munnar!

hiking in munnar tea plantations | best places to visit in India

20. Thekkady

If you want to see wild Elephants in India, this is the place to come because in Thekkady National Park there are Elephants roaming around.

Things to do in Thekkady:

Trekking is generally what you come here to do. I did a big day trek to see Elephants and although it’s not guaranteed you’ll see them, I did, and it is very likely! There are easier tours that include bamboo rafting as well as a bit of trekking to see the Elephants too.

Take a Break from the City and Enjoy Thekkady’s Natural Beauty with a Lunch – Book now!

Thekkady Travel Tip: You only need 1-2 days here maximum as there isn’t much else to do.

Related Post: 8 South India Travel Tips | Things To Know BEFORE Visiting South India!

wild elephants in Thekkady National Park | best places to visit in India

21. Varkala

Varkala is a super chill beach town in Kerala and it’s pretty similar to the beaches and beach towns of Goa and is one of the best tourist destinations in India .

Things to do in Varkala:

Surfing is popular here so if you want to Surf in India, Varkala is the place to visit. Yoga is also very popular and aside from Rishkiesh in North India it’s the place to visit in India for Yoga alongside Goa in South India.

Varkala has some great cafes with good food and nice shops and generally is a place you visit to chill.

Varkala Travel Tip: Stay in accommodation close to the cliffside to be in a good location as Varkala has a local town too but this isn’t where tourists visit.

best places to visit in India, Varkala Beach Cliffside

22. Madurai

Madurai is not usually on many travellers South India itinerary and that’s why I really liked it. It’s a city rich in culture and the people of Tamil Nadu are very proud of their city and is one of the unique places to visit in India .

Things to do in Madurai:

The Sri Meenakshi Temple is the focal point of the city, this Temple is a big and colourful Hindu Temple in the Tamil Nadu style. The best way to see and understand Tamil Nadu is to go on a walking tour with Story Trails which is what I did and I learned so much about the city and about Hinduism.

Madurai Travel Tip: I found there wasn’t much accommodation in Madurai but don’t let that put you off visiting, I did find a good hostel there and you only need 1-2 days.

Related Post: What To Do in Madurai, Tamil Nadu in Just One Day!

best places to visit in India, Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

23. Pondicherry

This former French Colonial Town located on the East Coast of India should be on your South India itinerary as it’s a totally unique place to visit in India. The architecture and food is like nowhere else in India and you often have to question where you are!

Things to do in Pondicherry:

The idea of visiting Pondicherry is to take it slow. I’d recommend lots of cafe breaks enjoying the European food on offer which is a treat once you’ve been in India for a while. I also took a Story Trails walking tour here which I enjoyed to learn more about the history of how the French and British influenced this city.

The other popular thing to do in Pondicherry is to visit Auroville which is an experimental community and township. You can visit on a day trip but if you are really interested in this place you can stay for a few days too!

Pondicherry Travel Tip: White Town is the tourist part of Pondicherry to stay in so make sure you stay here, not the local town.

Related Post: 10 Things To Do in Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu! & Visiting Auroville on a Day Trip from Pondicherry.

best places to visit in India, yellow building and green streets of pondicherry

24. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

In neither North or South India and closer to Thailand are the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that are actually part of India and are the best tourist destinations in India .

If you want to see some beaches that will rival those of the Maldives, fly into Port Blair and check out the Andaman Islands! Flights run mainly from Chennai and Calcutta to Port Blair.

Andaman Islands Travel Tip: I have heard that the wifi here isn’t very good so there is more accommodation on the islands than there is online!

best places to visit in India, white sand beach on Andaman islands

I hope my list of best places to visit in India has helped you!

Now you know where to go in India, have a look at my other posts to help you plan your trip!
2 Week India Itinerary For Your First Trip To India!
Golden Triangle India Itinerary for 1 Week in India!
2 Month India Itinerary Visiting North & South India!
10 Delhi Travel Tips to See & Enjoy Delhi as a Tourist!
How To Get a Sim Card in India as a Tourist!
ALL MY INDIA BLOG POSTS.

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Thursday 21st of November 2019

I've been talking to my bff about going to India. Her husband is from a suburb of Delhi and she hasn't been there yet. This post helped me kind of figure out what's doable from Delhi.

Thanks for the post!

TheWanderingQuinn

Saturday 30th of November 2019

That's so good to hear Heather, I hope you make it to India soon! I have some more posts about Delhi too as it can be quite an intense city! :)

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A Portrait of India

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Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Multiple-night stays at three hotels ranked among the 15 "World's Best" hotels by the readers of Travel + Leisure – The Oberoi Udaivilas, The Oberoi Rajvilas and The Oberoi Amarvilas (where you'll have Taj Mahal views from your room)

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

On-Tour Air included (5 flights)

Two nights in Jaipur, highlighted by a visit to the Amber Fort and a Maharajah evening featuring dinner and entertainment

A boat ride on the River Ganges, providing an opportunity to experience revered cultural traditions centuries old in Varanasi

Exclusive insider visit to a chef's private home in Kerala and a cooking demonstration for an authentic taste of daily life

Houseboat and river cruises, and a martial arts demo

Kathakali dance performance in tropical southern India

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Experiences of a lifetime

Live like a maharajah at some of the world's top-rated hotels – including a two-night stay at the award-winning The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, featuring views of the Taj Mahal, and three nights in Udaipur at The Oberoi Udaivilas...

Udaipur's markets by rickshaw, a rickshaw ride to explore udaipur's colorful local markets.

In Udaipur, an auto-rickshaw ride around the city's bustling spice and vegetable markets offers insights into everyday life in India's "City of Lakes." As you roam the markets, you'll see local women in brightly colored saris sitting among the stalls, surrounded by baskets brimming with their fresh produce, and a colorful array of curries and spices.

Lunch aboard a Kerala houseboat

Enjoy a luxury houseboat luncheon cruise in kerala.

Southern India's Kerala region has often been referred to as the "Venice of the East" for the lovely, palm-fringed canals found throughout its small coastal villages. Hop aboard a traditional thatched-roof riceboat-turned-luxury houseboat for a luncheon cruise through these scenic waterways, en route to Kumarakom in Lake Vembanad.

Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

The royal treatment in udaipur.

In Udaipur – a city renowned for its palaces and Rajasthan-era grandeur – the palatial Oberoi Udaivilas embodies the opulence and romance of a royal era on the shores of Lake Pichola, projecting an ambiance of regal splendor. In accommodations like these, it's natural to feel like royalty.

On this trip the contrast between the northern desert cities and the lush tropical settings of the south is amazing.

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The leela palace new delhi.

New Delhi, India

Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Varanasi, India

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Agra, India

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

Jaipur, India

Nights 8-10

The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Udaipur, India

Nights 11-12

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

Kochi, Kerala, India

Nights 13-14

Kumarakom Lake Resort

Kumarakom, India

Nights 15-17

The Oberoi, Mumbai

Mumbai (Bombay), India

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

All U.S. citizens require a valid passport to enter India, and that passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. (Please note that although adult passports are valid for a full ten years, children's passports require renewal every five years.) Your passport must also contain at least two blank visa pages . If you are a United States citizen and do not have a valid passport, please contact the closest U.S. passport agency or consult the U.S. State Department web site for detailed information on how to obtain or renew your passport at: www.travel.state.gov.

Tauck must provide our ground operator with each guests' passport info 60 days prior to departure.

A visa is required to travel to India and they cannot be processed more than 90 days prior to departure. The visa fees are not included in the tour cost.

There is an option of e-visa which is multiple entry and valid for one year from date of approval. Guests can apply no more than 90 days in advance from proposed date of travel for a visa that is valid for 30 days of visiting. The evisa website link is: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa .

Tauck has collaborated with VisaCentral in the US to assist our guests with processing and issuing their travel documents. If a guest opts to work with VisaCentral, their services are available online at www.visacentral.com/tauck . To speak directly with VisaCentral Customer Service, please call 844-860-7199 (toll-free in the US) or email [email protected].

Please Note: While Tauck has an affiliation with VisaCentral for processing visas, you are not required to process your visa through VisaCentral, and you may elect to choose other visa services or work directly through the appropriate consulates or embassies.

Regardless of which visa service company you chose (or if you opt to work directly with the appropriate consulate or embassy), your visa application will require a summary of your Tauck itinerary. Please email [email protected] to request your itinerary summary, which we will be happy to provide.

Please Note: Because a visa is an official document, Tauck cannot apply for a visa on your behalf, and we are very limited regarding the assistance we're able to provide. If you require help, we recommend working with a reputable visa service company as they can provide the highest level of assistance.

Non-U.S. citizens should check with the Indian Embassy or Consulate to determine necessary travel documents.

We strongly recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

Tour Name and Departure Date
Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
Traveler's Address(es)
Email Address*
Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Booking Information

Deposit Information

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking. Your deposit is $1,000 .

Final Payment

Final Payment is due to Tauck 90 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

Trip Cancellation – If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
Trip Interruption – If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
Travel Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.
Baggage / Personal Effects Protection – Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services – Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $799 per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $1000 per person

89-8 days before departure = $1500 per person

7-1 days before departure = $2000 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour

Due to strictly enforced weight restrictions on the on-tour flights, luggage weight per person must not exceed 50 lbs (23 kg) and you are permitted only one piece of checked luggage. Luggage exceeding the allowable weight is subject to excess baggage charges that can result in a considerable additional expense.

Regulations within most airports require that customers handle their own luggage through customs.

On one occasion you will be required to pack an overnight bag during your India sojourn. The first such occasion will be for your one night trip to Varanasi from Delhi on day 4 of your itinerary. You will be reunited with your checked luggage upon your arrival in Agra on day 5.

To help in your packing, we are pleased to provide you with a special Tauck duffel bag. If you reside in the mainland United States, the duffel bag will be sent to your home and should arrive approximately two weeks prior to your departure for India. If you reside outside of the continental U.S., you will receive your from your Tauck Director while on tour. Packing an overnight bag on these occasions will ensure the safe and timely arrival of your luggage at your next destination, and we appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

In addition to the Tauck duffel which will be your checked piece of luggage for these overnights, you will be allowed to bring ONE piece of carry-on luggage aboard your intra-tour flights weighing no more than 15 pounds (7 kg) and with maximum dimensions of 21" x 13.75" x 10" (55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm).

Checked Luggage – General

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Public toilet facilities are rare. You are encouraged to take every opportunity to use a clean toilet in places such as hotels and restaurants. Most hotels catering to an international clientele provide western style restroom facilities.

.Always keep mosquito repellent with you and be sure to pay special attention to mosquito protection between dusk and dawn.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here . You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

Your journey to the subcontinent is very active and includes five on-tour flights. You should be in good health and able to walk moderate distances over varied terrain. Various modes of transportation will be used to highlight different aspects of India's culture and geography, including airplane, train, motor coach and houseboat.

There is a significant amount of walking on this journey; however, the pace of the itinerary has been carefully planned to intersperse sightseeing with leisurely days to ensure you have a most enjoyable time.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey. Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues. The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Due to the ancient nature of several of the sites you will visit during your sojourn in India, stairs and walkways are sometimes dark, uneven, steep and/or slippery.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Airline Disinsection

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click here for more information.

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches. Hotels in India do not always have designated non-smoking rooms, but your preference will be forwarded to the hotels and every effort will be made to accommodate your request, although it cannot be guaranteed.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list here.

The climate in India varies depending on the location and time of travel. In northern India, the weather during the late fall and winter months of October through March is dry with temperatures averaging 45 °F (7 °C) in the early morning and evening, and 70 to 75 °F (21 to 24 °C) during the day. However, as you travel south to Mumbai and then Cochin, temperatures rise, with daytime temperatures averaging 75 to 80 °F (24 to 27 °C) in Mumbai to 90 °F (32 °C) in Cochin.

India is known for its rainy season, when monsoons make headlines. However, from October through March – the best time to travel – no more than one inch of rain per month on average falls on the cities we visit.

To determine current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

When packing for travel to India, we suggest you select a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. In India, delicate fabrics do not stand up well to laundering facilities except at deluxe hotels. Plain cotton or cotton and synthetic blend clothing is the most practical and is the coolest in summer. It is best to avoid synthetic fabrics that do not "breathe". A hat with a wide brim will help protect you from the harsh sun. During the fall season, a collapsible umbrella comes in handy. During the winter months, sweaters and light jackets are necessary.

For the welcome and farewell dinners, we recommend resort wear to suit a tropical climate.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack:

Resort wear
A sports jacket for men for fine dining options
Skirt below the knee
Loose slacks
Short and long-sleeved shirts and blouses
Light sweater
Light waterproof jacket
Wide-brimmed hat
A pair of sturdy, yet comfortable, pre-worn walking shoes for uneven terrain
A pair of easily removable shoes or sandals for entering temples and shrines
Collapsible umbrella
Toiletries, sundries, tissues
Pre-moistened towelettes
Handkerchiefs
Antibacterial lotion
Medication for allergies/aspirin/upset stomach/diarrhea
Insect repellent
Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
Camera, film, memory cards, chargers, batteries and other photography accessories
Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

Please refer to the Necessary Gear website at www.necessarygear.com as one option available to you for renting and purchasing apparel, PPEs, and other items appropriate for your journey.

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India Itineraries

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India’s simply too vast and too complex to explore in a single trip. It makes more sense to focus on one, two or perhaps three regions, depending on your time frame. The following India itineraries showcase both the classic attractions and less well-known gems of six distinct areas, from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the sweltering tropical backwaters of Kerala.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for India, created by local experts

13 days / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Recommended India itineraries

India, a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories, offers an array of experiences, from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of Kerala in the south.

Our local travel expert, Ravi, says, ' India is not just a destination; it's a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. With our tailor-made trips, you get more than just a holiday; you embark on a journey curated just for you. '

If you are planning your travel to India, use these itineraries created by our travel experts as a starting point for inspiration.

Looking for an India itinerary by duration? 10 days - 14 days

India Itinerary 1 - The Golden Triangle - 1 week

No other region of India packs in as many awe-inspiring monuments as the so-called “Golden Triangle” connecting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Allow at least a week to complete the circuit, with a diversion south to the tiger reserve at Ranthambore if you’ve time to spare.

Delhi - Start out at Shah Jahan’s mighty Red Fort in the Mughal Old City, then work your way south through the medieval monuments of the southern suburbs.
Agra - Cross the Yamuna River by boat in the early morning for an unforgettable view of the Taj just after sunrise, then spend the rest of the day ticking off the city’s other Mughal splendours.
Fatehpur Sikri - Overnight at a guesthouse below the deserted capital of emperor Akbar to see its deep red sandstone architecture at its most ethereal, in the diffuse light of dusk and dawn.
Keoladeo National Park - Bicycle safaris along the dirt tracks and banks that crisscross this teeming bird reserve offer a perfect antidote to the noise and traffic of India’s northern cities.
Jaipur - Approach the ochre-walled palace of Amber Fort on elephant back, before spending a day in the textile and gemstone bazaars of the Rajasthani capital – a riot of quintessentially Indian colour.
Shekhawati - Set on the fringes of the Thar Desert, the painted havelis (walled mansions) in the market towns of this once rich area make the ideal stopover on the journey back to Delhi.

India Itinerary 2 - Around the "Land of Kings" - 1 month

You’ll need at least a month to really do justice to India’s dazzling desert state, Rajasthan, or three weeks at a pinch.

Jaipur - The Pink City, with its hectic streets and flamboyant Rajput architecture, is a real baptism of fire.
Ranthambore - If sighting a tiger is a priority, aim to spend at least a couple of nights at a camp near this world-famous reserve.
Pushkar - Ringed by the white domes and sacred ghats of Hindu shrines, Pushkar makes a perfect base for leisurely desert walks and souvenir hunts.
Udaipur - Dine by candlelight on a haveli rooftop for the ultimate view of the Sisodia maharanas’ fairytale palaces.
Jodhpur - Rajasthan’s most spectacular medieval fortress, Mehrangarh, towers above the warren-like old city painted a hundred shades of sky blue.
Jaisalmer - A long trip across the Thar is rewarded by the sublime vision of Jai Sigh’s yellow-stone citadel floating above the sand flats.
Bikaner - Quirky architecture and a temple where thousands of rats run free are two vestiges of this city’s former prominence on the trans-Thar caravan route.
Nawalgarh - After a succession of big cities, this small town on the fringes of the desert makes an enjoyable base for trips to nearby forts and havelis.

Taj Mahal, India

India Itinerary 3 - The Deep South - 3 weeks

The Deep South offers dramatic landscapes and world-class monuments. You’ll need at least three weeks to cover this route comfortably, or two at a rushed pace with your own transport.

Chennai - The old colonial hub of Fort St George is the standout sight of the Tamil capital, but there’s also a wealth of succulent southern cuisine on offer.
Mamallapuram - Sculpted by the Pallava kings, Mamallapuram holds a tempting combination of ancient stonework and breezy tropical beaches.
Puducherry - Soak up the lingering Gallic ambience of France’s former colony on the Coromandel Coast, ideally from the confines of a heritage hotel.
Thanjavur - The mighty Brihadishwara Temple and collection of Chola bronzes in the town’s art gallery make Thanjavur the perfect springboard for the Kaveri Delta region.
Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) - Gaze from the summit of Trichy’s exotic rock fort across the Kaveri River to the largest temple complex in India.
Madurai - The shrine of the Fish-Eyed Goddess is Tamil Nadu’s greatest living monument, renowned for its multicoloured, deity-encrusted gateway towers.
Periyar - Scale the Western Ghat range to enter Kerala’s Cardamom Hills, where the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers the chance to sight elephants.
Alappuzha - This former colonial trading port provides the entry point for trips into the surrounding backwater region of Kuttanad – a watery world like no other in Asia.
Fort Cochin - The heritage hotels, arty cafés and funky boutiques of Kerala’s historic harbour town are the ideal end point for a tour of India’s far south.

India Itinerary 4 - Himalayan odyssey - 2-3 weeks

Experience the contrasting landscapes of the world’s greatest mountain range with this two- to three-week journey from the northern plains to the fringes of the Tibetan Plateau and idyllic Vale of Kashmir.

Shimla - Trundle on the toy train from Kalka through the foothills to this quintessentially Raj-era hill station.
Manali - Lush forests of deodar cedars, apple orchards and giant, ice-dusted summits flank the hill resort of Manali, in the Kullu Valley – starting point of the trans-Himalayan highway.
Leh - A breathless, two-day journey across a vast desert of scree and dizzying passes brings you to the capital of Ladakh, marooned in the high Indus Valley.
The Ladakhi lakes - Charter a jeep for the trip southeast to the hypnotically beautiful altitude lakes of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri.
Kargil - Fairytale Buddhist monasteries and stupendous mountain scenery characterize the long haul to the mid-point on the journey to Kashmir.
Srinagar - Laze on the deck of a houseboat sipping spiced tea while the shadows lengthen on the surrounding mountainsides and shikara canoes filled with fruit and flowers paddle past.

India Itinerary 5 - Rhododendrons and red pandas - 10 days

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the launch pad for this classic trip through the tea estates around Darjeeling to Sikkim, a beautiful, predominantly Buddhist region in the lap of the Himalayas. You could cover the route in a fortnight; with an additional week, consider a multistage trek into the high country further north.

Kolkata - Join the flood of commuters crossing the Howrah Bridge, admire the spectacular monuments of the British Empire and discover one of India’s tastiest regional cuisines.
Darjeeling - Amazing views of distant Kanchenjunga, a quaint Raj-era vibe and the famous Toy Train ride up from the plains account for the perennial appeal of India’s principal tea hub.
Rumtek - A quiet alternative to nearby Gangtok (the Sikkimese capital), Rumtek is also the site of a spectacular Buddhist monastery.
Maenam Sanctuary - Tackle the lung-stretching, 1000m ascent of Maenam mountain from Ravangla town for a tantalizing panoramic view of the snow peaks to the north.
Pemayangtse - The poster boy for northeast Himalayan monasteries, Pemayangtse offers the added bonus of spectacular vistas of Kanchenjunga.
Varshey Rhododendron Sanctuary - Travellers with a botanical bent shouldn’t miss the chance to trek through this tract of pristine rhododendron forest, home to red pandas and black bears.

India Itinerary 6 - The Deccan Trail - 3 weeks

Despite its extraordinary wealth of historic monuments, the Deccan region of central India sees comparatively few visitors. The rewards for those who do make it are considerable: a succession of astonishing temple sites, crumbling tombs, mosques and deserted capitals spanning sixteen centuries of civilization. Allow at least three weeks for this unforgettable trip.

Hyderabad - The convoluted ruins of medieval Golconda, on the outskirts of the city, followed by a climb of the Charminar (“Four Minarets”) mosque and a slap-up Hyderabadi feast are the perfect preamble for what lies ahead.
Bidar - Resembling a town on the Central Asian Silk Route, Bidar’s rambling fort-palace, madrasa, tombs and metal workshops recall this region’s medieval Persian roots.
Vijayapura (Bijapur) - For three centuries, Bijapur served as the capital of the Deccan. An unparalleled crop of monuments survive from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, including India’s largest domed tomb, the mighty Gol Gumbaz.
Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal - The Deccan’s ancient Hindu heyday is represented by this trio of wonderful sites – a feast of enigmatic rock-cut caves, monkey-infested temples and tumbledown forts – in the middle of nowhere.
Hampi - Rent a bicycle to explore the expansive, beautifully carved remains of medieval India’s most splendid city, set amid a dreamy landscape of banana groves and boulder hills.
Gokarna - This compact pilgrimage town on the Konkan coast holds plenty of traditional atmosphere, and a crop of gorgeous beaches around the headland to the south.
Goa - For a self-indulgent spell soaking up the rays and surf of the Konkan, Goa’s hard to beat. Aim for one of the less-developed resorts such as Agonda or Patnem in the south of the state.
Travelling across central India from Mumbai on the Arabian Sea to Puri on the Bay of Bengal gives you the chance to see some of the country’s most compelling attractions, relax by the beach, and then fly out from Kolkata. Realistically, you’ll need a month for this route, though it could be done in three weeks at a canter.
Mumbai - Dynamic and exhilarating, this vast megalopolis bombards the senses with the extremes of urban India, and is an excellent place to sample some of the country’s finest dining.
Aurangabad - A superb base from which to visit the breathtaking cave sculptures and carvings at Ellora and Ajanta. Check out, too, the city’s own “false Taj”, the Bibi-ka-Maqbara.
Khajuraho - Hidden away in India’s very centre, this medieval temple complex is decorated with the most eye-popping array of erotica you’ll find on any religious building anywhere.
Lucknow - Visit the now-ruined Residency in the capital of Uttar Pradesh, where a besieged British contingent famously held out for five months during the 1857 uprising. Don’t leave without sampling the city’s succulent dum pukht cuisine.
Varanasi - The spiritual capital of India, and one of the oldest cities on earth, where you can see bathing and cremations by the sacred River Ganges, and watch the kids fly their kites from your terrace while monkeys scurry around the rooftops.
Bodhgaya - The Buddha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a bodhi tree at Bodhgaya, one of a trio of sacred Buddhist sites within easy striking distance of Varanasi.
Puri - Home of the famous annual Jagannath “Car Festival” (Rath Yatra), Puri is also a low-key beach resort, popular with Indian families and Western backpackers, and an excellent place to recharge your batteries.

The Rough Guides to India and related travel guides

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Woman at Taj Mahal, Agra, India © SasinTipchai/Shutterstock

written by Andy Turner

updated 15.12.2023

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Historical Tours & Trips in India

Step back in time and learn the secrets of ancient times on a historical tour of India. With 726 adventures, you're sure to visit the best historical places packed full of stories from days long ago.

250+ Historical tour packages in India with 2,927 reviews

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5 Days Historical Golden Triangle Tour of India(ALL INCLUSIVE)

I participated in the 5-day Historical Golden Triangle Tour of India and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived in New Delhi, I was greeted with warm hospitality and excellent service from the tour company. The tour took us through the three most iconic cities of India - Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Our knowledgeable guide provided us with in-depth historical and cultural information at each location, making the journey even more enriching. In Delhi, we visited iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar. The city is a perfect blend of old and new, and the bustling streets and colorful markets were a feast for the senses. Next, we headed to Agra to witness the majestic Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. The beauty of this monument left me in awe and I was grateful to have the opportunity to see it in person. The tour also included a visit to the Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, both of which were equally impressive. The last leg of the tour took us to Jaipur, also known as the 'Pink City'. The city was a delightful mix of stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. The highlight of Jaipur was visiting the magnificent Amber Fort and the City Palace, both of which showcased the rich history and grandeur of the Rajput era. Throughout the tour, we stayed in comfortable and luxurious accommodations and the meals were delicious and authentic. The tour was truly all-inclusive, as all entrance fees, transportation, and meals were included in the package. Overall, this 5-day Historical Golden Triangle Tour of India was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I was able to see some of the most iconic and breathtaking sights of India while learning about its rich history and culture. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore the beauty of India in a short amount of time. The professionalism and expertise of the tour company made the journey smooth and enjoyable. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!

10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

6 Days Luxurious Historical Golden Triangle Tour(ALL INCLUSIVE)

During the tour, we had a number of local tour guides and all were professional and were immensely well informed. We had only one driver from the beginning of the tour till the end and he too was well informed, energetic and professional. Indeed we had very good rooms at each cities with delicious breakfast. It was a pleasant to work with travelcon and Hemendra siggh, the owner of the company.

In-depth Cultural

5 Days Private Golden Triangle India tour from New Delhi

Fabulous selections of sights to see each day. We upgraded one step for hotels and all had great rooms n staff. Super food buffets n dinners selection for on our own were great. Most guides were very formative and helpful. Our driver Danish really made the trip enjoyable. We would go on another TourRadar in the future.

Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Heritage Tour of India

$India\'s Top Selling Golden Triangle India Tour w/ Meals and Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour$

India's Top Selling Golden Triangle India Tour w/ Meals and Sunrise Taj Mahal

Great tour , tour guides are excellent learned a lot about the Golden triangle. Our driver Mr Pushpendra who was with us for the whole tour was great, on time pick up and drove us safely to and from the hotels and back to the airport. I would highly recommend this tour for first timers in India specially if you wanted to learn about culture and history

$India\'s Bestseller - 5 Day Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra & Jaipur (Guaranteed Departure) Tour$

India's Bestseller - 5 Day Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra & Jaipur (Guaranteed Departure)

I was a little anxious about this tour as I was a solo female traveler and had read some reviews of not so great experiences. I want to say I had the best time and everything was fantastic! In Delhi I had Alvina as a tour guide and she was knowledgeable and helpful. In Agra I had Ahmit as a tour guide and I have to say he really knew the history as well, especially about the Taj Mahal which was an amazing experience. The last tour guide I had in Jaipur was Bhawani, he was super friendly and knowledgeable as well. The fees to the monuments are not included but it does say that when you book it. I already knew I would have to tip each guide and the driver as it is the culture here to do that but they were all appreciative about it and it was well deserving. I saw some reviews about being taken to the different shops but once again you don't have to buy anything and if you want to skip them you can ask your guide and there is no issues. Hotels were great especially the last one in Jaipur, it was a homestay with great hospitality. Last but not least thankyou to my driver Arvind! He made everything so smooth and comfortable. I can't express how much he made the trip so much better with his kindness and knowledge. Thankyou so much Arvind!

Rajasthan and Varanasi: Bike Tours & the Taj Mahal

An amazing experience, our guide was great and I would definitely book a tour with g adventures again!

Colorful India with Taj Mahal & Rajasthan

Eine super organisierte Tour in jeder Hinsicht. Gute nette freundliche hilfsbereite Fahrer, tolle Hotels, super Sightseeing Programm mit guten Guides.

Luxury 3 Day Golden Triangle With 5 star Hotel

We just completed a GREAT three-day Golden Triangle tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. First, I have to say our driver, Khan, must have gotten his amazing driving skills in another world! He navigated the most difficult roads and situations with ease, making sure we were comfortable and safe the whole time. When visiting a new place, this is so important! He also pointed out a lot of sites and gave us additional points on Indian cultural, all is great English. The daily tour guides did an excellent job too. Each one had an incredible amount of historical, cultural, and societal knowledge and was happy to share with us. It’s was a fast trip, but we saw and learned a lot. I highly recommend this trip to anyone interested in seeing a slice on Indian life and learning about Indian culture.

The Famous Incredible Golden Triangle Tour of India

We, 4 people with a family, visited Incredible Golden Triangle for 7 days Delhi Agra and Jaipur tour in September of this year. It was a pleasure to work with World Travel Experiences. Everyone, including guides, driver and Rituraj, has worked hard to provide the best and most memorable experience possible, and we have always been there. They thought of everything and left nothing behind them. I would definitely recommend them without any doubtful!

Golden Triangle Tour with Taj Nature Walks Agra 5 nights/ 6 days All inclusive

I recently had the pleasure of taking the Golden Triangle Tour with Taj Nature Walks Agra 5 nights/ 6 days. It was truly an amazing experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking to explore India. The tour began in Delhi where we visited all the major monuments and historical sites. We then proceeded to Agra, where we were able to see the Taj Mahal and other famous sites. The tour ended in Jaipur, where we visited the forts and palaces of the city. The highlight of this tour was the Taj Nature Walks Agra. It was an absolute pleasure taking in the beauty of the Taj Mahal from different angles and seeing the local wildlife up close. The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the area and gave us a very insightful tour. They were also very friendly and accommodating. The accommodations during the tour were also great. We stayed in some of the best hotels in the area, and the food was delicious. Overall, I had an incredible experience taking the Golden Triangle Tour with Taj Nature Walks Agra 5 nights/ 6 days. It was a great way to explore India and get a better understanding of its culture and history. Highly recommended!

5 Multi Days Guided Golden Tour of India

Travelled with my sister. An excellent tour with the flexibility and time to see all the major sites. We had an outstanding private car driver (Mr karan) who was happy to give us the flexibility needed to Stop and see all the major sites. All tour guides (specialist for each city/site) were very knowledgeable, informative and essential to understand the reasons and history behind each site visited. A great tour with excellent accommodation, good food stops and comfort levels as you travel the many kilometre of the golden triangle. It was great that we were not pushed to visit shops which is often the case tourradar and i would strongly recommend this tour in view of the excellent efficient service and flexible way to see the major sites.

$India\'s Most popular Golden Triangle Tour with Taj Mahal Sunrise view & Mathura All inclusive Tour$

India's Most popular Golden Triangle Tour with Taj Mahal Sunrise view & Mathura All inclusive

India's most popular Golden Triangle Tour with a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise and a trip to Mathura. The experience was incredible! The tour was all-inclusive and included three nights and four days of sightseeing. The first day we visited the iconic Taj Mahal, and the sunrise view was breathtaking. We also had a guided tour of the mausoleum and the surrounding complex. The next day we headed to Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri before heading to Mathura. There we visited the famous temples of Lord Krishna and were able to take part in some of the religious ceremonies. We even had the opportunity to take a boat ride on the sacred River Yamuna. On the final day of the tour, we visited the Red Fort in Delhi and the Qutub Minar before heading back to our hotel. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to experience the beauty and culture of India. Thanks India and thanks Real Viaggi India Team.

Golden Triangle Tour with Goa

My 2nd trip to India with World travel Experiences. These guys are so good at all the arrangements. They consider and understand what the clients need, and make customizations in the itinerary. I've always appreciated their hard work and the attention they give to every detail. Hotels, food, guide and travel has always been a pleasure if I'm traveling with WTX. Good work guys, happy to travel with you always.

Golden Triangle, Supersaver

overall very good informative guides good destinations accommodation good but room for improvement

What people love about Historical Tours in India

It was Budget Tour for Everyone.We are so happy with the 5 Days Historical Golden Triangle Tour of India and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived in Delhi, I was greeted by the friendly and knowledgeable tour guide who made me feel right at home. The tour covered the three iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, also known as the Golden Triangle. Each city had its own unique charm and history, making the tour a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure. One of the highlights of the tour was visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra. Words cannot describe the beauty and grandeur of this iconic monument. The tour guide shared fascinating facts and stories about the Taj Mahal, making the experience even more enriching. In Delhi, I was able to explore the bustling streets of Old Delhi and visit popular landmarks such as the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. The city has a vibrant energy and the tour allowed me to immerse myself in its culture and traditions. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, was a visual treat with its stunning architecture and colorful markets. The visit to the majestic Amber Fort was a highlight of the tour, with its intricate designs and breathtaking views of the city. The accommodations throughout the tour were top-notch and the food was delicious. I also appreciated that the tour was all-inclusive, so I didn't have to worry about any additional expenses. I recommend the 5 Days Historical Golden Triangle Tour of India to anyone looking to experience the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. The tour was well-organized, informative, and truly an unforgettable journey. I can't wait to visit India again and explore more of its wonders.

Have a experiencing the 6 Days Luxurious Historical Golden Triangle Tour and it was truly a luxurious and unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived in Delhi, I was greeted with warm hospitality and impeccable service. The tour took us through the three iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, also known as the Golden Triangle. Each city had its own unique charm and I was amazed by the rich history and culture that I was able to experience. The first stop on the tour was Delhi, where we visited the iconic Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Humayun's Tomb. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and gave us a thorough understanding of the history behind each monument. We also visited the bustling markets of Old Delhi, where we got a taste of the local culture and tried some delicious street food. Next, we traveled to Agra to see the magnificent Taj Mahal. It was truly a sight to behold and I was left speechless by its beauty. We also visited the Agra Fort, which had stunning architecture and gave us a glimpse into the Mughal era. The final stop on the tour was the pink city of Jaipur. We stayed at a luxurious hotel and were treated like royalty. The city itself was a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and majestic palaces. We visited the Amber Fort and were amazed by its grandeur. The tour also included a visit to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar, which were both equally impressive. Throughout the tour, we were treated to delicious meals at some of the best restaurants in each city. The accommodations were top-notch and I felt pampered and well taken care of at all times. Overall, I cannot recommend this tour enough. It was the perfect combination of luxury and history and I left with a deeper appreciation for the culture and heritage of India. The tour was well-organized, the guides were knowledgeable and friendly, and the sights were breathtaking. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a truly luxurious and immersive experience in India's Golden Triangle.

Well organised and great guides - different guide in each city

Regions in India

Northern India (596)
Rajasthan (396)
Golden Triangle (216)
Southern India (73)
Karnataka (22)
Western India (19)
Eastern India (17)
Maharashtra (13)
West Bengal (12)
Tamil Nadu (11)
Uttarakhand (9)
Himachal Pradesh (6)
Ranthambore National Park (6)
Kashmir (5)
Gujarat (5)

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First Timer Tour

First Timers Tour India

Are you visiting India for the first time ? Then you must know that a first time visit to India is almost a challenge. It is because India is a vast country with diversities in terms of its climate & geography, culture & heritage, appearance & attire, language and religion. It has something to offer to everyone according to their interests.

To discover the best of India you need to rely on a travel company with years of experience rather than guide books. You can rely on us as we hold expertise in providing well versed local guides, having vast knowledge of every nook and corner of Indian destinations that will further help you in exploring the hidden treasure of India, making you feel comfortable during your first time tour in the country. We provide skilled drivers during the tour for your safety and comfortable traveling. First time visitors can choose to visit among the popular and enchanting destinations in India. Among all the Golden Triangle Tour of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is highly recommended.

We have a range of exquisitely crafted tour packages for the first timers to discover India in the best possible way. The itineraries of these packages provide opportunities to observe the lifestyle of local people and their custom and to see the major attractions of India. We ensure seamless services and impeccable hospitality making your excursion in India cherished and memorable.

3 Itinerary Found Select Destination Cochin Jaipur Kovalam Trivandrum Udaipur Kumarakom Alleppey Idukki Munnar Jodhpur

6 Days Golden Triangle Tour for First Timer - Khajuraho, Varanasi and Goa Tour

6 Days - Golden Triangle (Delhi - Agra- Jaipur)

Delhi - Agra - Jaipur (Khajuraho - Varanasi) (Goa)

Visit Delhi Historical Places and markets
See historical monuments of Jaipur
Visit Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
See the temples of Khajuraho
Enjoy Grand Aarti Ceremony, Temples, Ghats - Varanasi
Enjoy Beaches, Markets, Adventure, Nightlife - Goa

9 Nights Kerala Backwaters First Time Tour

9 Days - Kerala Backwaters First Time Tour

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Visit Dutch of Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Bolgatty - Cochin
See Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Tea Plantation - Munnar
Experience the wildlife at Periyar National Park
Enjoy the cruise backwaters in Periyar Lake
Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake
See Alleppey Beach, Kuttanad

Introduction to Indian Culture, Culture of India

16 Days - Introduction to Indian Culture

Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Udaipur - Mumbai - Cochin - Kumarakom - Kovalam - Trivandrum

Visit Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar - Delhi
See Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb - Agra
Visit Fatehpur Sikri enroute to Jaipur
See Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace - Jaipur
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The 15 most spectacular places to visit in India

Dec 11, 2023 • 14 min read

India’s astonishing variety of sights has to be seen to be believed. Travelers have devoted lifetimes to exploring the famous places and forgotten corners of this incredible country, driven onwards by the certainty that there’s always more to see.

Mughal palaces, towering Hindu temples, mountain monasteries, lost kingdoms, cultured cities, and genteel hill stations in the foothills of the Himalayas all jostle for attention in a country that is proudly shaking off the legacy of colonialism and repositioning itself as a global superpower. With such incredible diversity on offer, there’s just one question – where do you start?

Well, our advice is to not take on too much during a single visit. Pick an area – the tropical south perhaps, or the northern plains, or the mountain valleys of the Himalayas – and give yourself time to pause and soak up the atmosphere as you work through your must-see list .

Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed a mind-expanding and exhilarating blast of color, soul-soaring splendor, earth-shaking history and moments of pure serenity. Equal parts magic and mayhem, this mix is what makes traveling to India such an intense and addictive experience.

While this was no easy list to compile, we’re proud to present our pick of the ten best places to visit in India.

1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Best for romantics and fans of Mughal history

At the top of everyone’s bucket list, the Taj Mahal is as glorious as people imagine it would be – a magnificent monument to lost love, executed in pearl-white marble. Views of the world’s most beautiful building framed by a Mughal archway or floating above the misty Yamuna River will be one of the defining moments of any trip to India.

But there’s more to the former Mughal capital than the Taj. Add on a couple of days so you can visit the architecturally stunning tomb of Emperor Akbar , his rose-red sandstone former capital at Fatehpur Sikri and sprawling Agra Fort , one of India’s most epic fortifications. Thronged by millions of visitors, Agra is not always relaxing, but it’s eternally fascinating.

Close-up of a boatman holding oars on the Ganga River at night, Varanasi, India

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Best for intense spirituality

There are few places as beguiling and bewitching as the sacred Hindu city of Varanasi . Millennia-old death rituals play out daily at the cremation ghats that line the bank of the sacred River Ganges, while the maze-like alleyways of the nearby old town reveal dizzying surprises at every turn. We defy anyone to visit without experiencing some internal soul-searching about their place in the universe.

Be ready for some challenges. The hard-edged realities of life and death and the inequalities that continue to cause hardship for many in India are obvious on the streets of the world’s oldest living city. But there are also moments of gentleness – rise at dawn and wander the ghats (riverside steps) and you’ll see Varanasi at its most spiritual, with its attention focused on the sacred river, before the tourist bustle changes the mood.

Planning tip: The best way to appreciate Varanasi’s famous ghats is from a rowboat. Boatmen offer their services from first light at boat stations along the west bank of the Ganges, providing views of a riverfront that has changed only superficially in seven centuries.

3. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Best for urban explorers and Bollywood hopefuls

Mumbai is the perfect place to take the pulse of modern India. The most densely populated city in the subcontinent is home to Bollywood film stars, enterprising market vendors, bankers and executives rushing to work in offices, and fishing families who can trace their origins back to the days when this mighty metropolis was just a humble village.

To understand more about the disparities of life in contemporary Mumbai, take a socially responsible tour through the city’s huge and disadvantaged Dharavi district with Reality Tours & Travel ; 80% of the profits go back to social projects providing opportunities for those left behind by Mumbai’s push for success.

The city’s can’t-miss excursion is the boat trip to the 1500-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed rock-cut temples of Elephanta Island , but fantastic street food is the city’s great leveler. Don’t leave without sampling Mumbai's signature snack, bhel poori – puffed rice and fried dough with lentils, onions, herbs and savory chutneys, best sampled on the beach at Chowpatty or Juhu.

Detour: With time to spare in Mumbai, head to the northern suburbs, where Sanjay Gandhi National Park protects a sprawl of dry forest, home to leopards, deer, monkeys and serene Buddhist cave temples.

View of Thikse Monastery and prayer rocks in Ladakh India

Best for an extraordinary taste of Tibet

In the far northwest of India, sheltered from the monsoon by the rain shadow of the Himalayas, the former Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh is culturally and geographically closer to western Tibet than anywhere in India. In this high-altitude moonscape, towering Tibetan monasteries melt into a landscape of barren rock and wind-sculpted hoodoos (don’t miss fabulous Hemis and Thiksey on the road linking Ladakh to Himachal Pradesh ).

Most visitors start in the atmospheric capital, Leh , before roaming to neighboring valleys for homestay treks and trips to view turquoise salt lakes and colorful masked dances at ancient monasteries. Ladakh wasn't touched by China’s Cultural Revolution, so this is perhaps the closest independent travelers can come to experiencing the original culture of Tibet.

Planning tip: Getting to Ladakh is half the fun. Flights run to Leh even in the depths of winter, but the most enjoyable way in is overland, by road from either Srinagar in Kashmir or Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Buses and shared 4WDs run as long as the passes are open from June to the end of September, or you can tackle the route on a rented Enfield motorcycle.

5. Kolkata, West Bengal

Best for culture vultures

The capital of colonial British India until 1911, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is India’s third-biggest metropolis and the country's intellectual and artistic capital. Spend a few days exploring the energetic bazaars, cultured museums and British-era landmarks, and you’ll soon fall in love with Kolkata’s irrepressible energy.

To really get to know Kolkata, sign up for a Bengali cooking course and visit the revered temple at Kalighat , where the goddess Kali is appeased with sacrifices. With more time to spare, book an overnight wildlife-watching tour to the nearby Sundarbans Tiger Reserve , a legendary stalking ground for royal Bengal tigers.

Planning tip: Try to time your visit to coincide with the festival of Durga Puja in September or October, when vividly colorful effigies of the goddess are displayed in pandals (ceremonial tents) all over the city.

6. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Best for desert drama

The desert state of Rajasthan shows India at its most romantic and soft-filtered. Expect a mirage of camel caravans, ornate palaces, mighty forts, turbaned traders and intense colors, set against a backdrop of shifting desert sands. It’s unbelievably photogenic, but also firmly on the tourist map, so expect to share the experience with a crowd.

The pink-sandstone monuments of Jaipur , the ice-white lakeside palaces of Udaipur , and views of blue-hued Jodhpur from its lofty fort are all stunning experiences, but the city that delivers the biggest jolt to the senses is Jaisalmer , seeming sculpted from the living rock of the desert.

Its tangled lanes, towering fortress and beautifully ornate haveli (traditional houses) could have been plucked from the pages of One Thousand and One Nights , and the surrounding desert is the evocative setting for overnight camel safaris.

Planning tip: While it is possible to stay inside the fortified city, visitor numbers are having an impact on Jaisalmer’s historic heart. We recommend staying outside the walls instead – there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses within strolling distance of the fort.

A traditional rice barge on the backwaters of Kerala (between Alappuzha and Kollam)

7. The Kerala Backwaters

Best for lovers of slow travel

After the dusty, densely populated northern plains, tropical South India offers a lusher, more laid-back travel experience. The quintessential trip here is a slow-paced canal cruise through the emerald-green backwaters of Kerala , a 900-mile network of languid, coconut-fringed waterways, offering views of an ever-changing tableaux of South Indian life.

Hire a traditional houseboat in Alappuzha for a multiday trip, then settle in for a succulent Keralan seafood curry prepared by your personal chef as the sunset blushes over shimmering waters and silhouetted palm fronds. Post-cruise, it’s just a short hop up the coast to historic Kochi (Cochin) , with its cantilevered fishing nets and Kathakali dance theaters.

8. Bodhgaya, Bihar

Best for budding Buddhists

As the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism (plus countless smaller faiths), India is defined by sacred geography. Even here, however, few places resonate more powerfully than the Bodhi tree where Prince Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment to become the Buddha (Awakened One).

The town that has grown up around this sacred spot is home to dozens of Tibetan and Southeast Asian–style temples and monasteries, with a busy program of Buddhist teachings and courses. It’s the ideal destination for any spiritual explorer.

To get a feel for Bodhgaya ’s rhythms, come early to the Mahabodhi complex and settle in beside chanting Tibetan pilgrims to meditate on the nature of impermanence. Travel experiences don’t get much more profound than this.

Planning tip: Bodhgaya is just one stop on the so-called "Buddhist circuit," taking in key locations from the life of the historical Buddha. Local buses run to nearby Rajgir, the site of one of the first Buddhist monasteries, and Nalanda's ancient Buddhist university complex.

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Best for a premium cup of tea with a view

Fanned by the cool breezes of the eastern Himalayas, surrounded by manicured tea estates and basking in front of epic Himalayan views, Darjeeling is easy to fall for.

For a perfect day, watch the dawn break over 8586m (20,169ft) Kangchenjunga, learn the difference between first-flush and white teas on a plantation tour, linger over an afternoon cuppa at the Windamere Hotel , then learn about the Tibetan experience at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre .

The classiest way to arrive is via the nostalgic, narrow-gauge toy train ; book tickets in advance and check to see if the steam service is running (the diesel train follows the same route, but has less charm). Don’t miss the Buddhist gompas (monasteries) dotted around the city. Below Darjeeling on the fringes of Ghum, historic Yiga Choeling Gompa has a special magic.

Planning tip: Darjeeling isn’t the only interesting stop in the area. Shared 4WDs buzz from Darjeeling to Kalimpong , another historic township with colorful Buddhist monasteries, Himalayan views and pretty flower nurseries.

Virupaksha temple view from Hemakuta hill at sunset in Hampi, Karnataka

10. Hampi, Karnataka

Best for a full immersion in history

Between the 14th and 16th centuries CE, the capital of the Vijayanagar empire at Hampi was home to half a million people, but this ancient metropolis was almost completely abandoned, leaving 3700 stone monuments scattered across a surreal plain of boulders.

This is a place to linger, strolling between the boulders to find carved masonry, forgotten shrines and the handsome remains of some of South India’s most dramatic stone temples.

Glance up as you wander and you’ll see rock climbers tackling bouldering routes using chisel marks made by ancient masons. Rent a motorcycle or scooter and you can roam further afield, taking in the hilltop temple marking the spot where the monkey god Hanuman first met Lord Rama.

Planning tip: Hampi is a short bus ride from the town of Hosapete – get here by overnight train from Goa’s beaches, historic Hyderabad or the cosmopolitan southern city of Bengaluru .

11. Arunachal Pradesh

Best for stepping off the map

Tucked away near Bangladesh, the eight Northeast States – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim – are India’s wild frontier. Until the 1990s, this region of rugged mountain valleys was mostly off-limits to foreigners, and visitor numbers are still small – people who travel here earn the right to call themselves proper explorers.

Sikkim is the most famous destination in the Northeast States, but we’d encourage you east towards the forested foothills and jagged mountains of Arunachal Pradesh , where tribal communities follow a diverse range of traditional belief systems, from the Buddhist Monpa people of Tawang to the animist Apatani people of the Ziro valley.

Planning tip: Travel takes a bit of effort in Arunachal Pradesh; you’ll need to apply for a permit to enter the state, and local transport is patchy. By far the easiest way to explore is with a chartered 4WD and driver (easily arranged in Guwahati in Assam).

Women sitting beside the sacred tank at Amritsar's Golden Temple

12. Amritsar, Punjab

Best for experiencing the power of devotion

India has pilgrimage destinations to spare, but few come close to the vibrant energy of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The most sacred site for the Sikh religion is a gleaming jewel box, floating in a mirror-like sacred pool, thronged day and night by an unbelievable mass of pilgrims. You don’t have to be spiritually inclined to feel its powerful rhythms.

Joining devotees at the Sri Harmandir Sahib – the gold-paneled shrine at the heart of the complex – is incredibly moving. Staying overnight in the pilgrims' hostels that flank the temple compound only adds to the intensity. A donation is much appreciated for accommodation if possible, though pilgrims of all means will be accommodated if space is available. You can also sit down for meals at the temple langar (kitchen), which provides cost-free nourishment to a staggering 100,000 people per day (again, a donation is appreciated if you have the means).

Planning tip: Don’t limit your explorations to the Golden Temple – the surrounding bazaars buzz with energy and atmosphere, with vendors selling everything from embroidered chappals (sliders) to brass and polished steel pots and pans.

13. Mysuru (Mysore), Karnataka

Best for feeling like a Maharaja

The atmospheric South Indian city of Mysuru has multiple charms: towering temples, one of India’s most evocative marketplaces, and the almost impossibly extravagant crib that is Mysuru Palace , the ancestral home of the Wadiyar maharajas. No building conjures up the extravagant lives of India’s royal rulers quite so vividly – every room is a fantasy, every ornament an heirloom.

Around the palace are busy bazaars, rewarding museums and a string of Hindu temples in the classic Dravidian (Southern Indian) architectural style. Devote several days to wandering the streets, hiking up to the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hill and feasting on fiery vegetarian thalis (plate meals) in Mysuru’s restaurants.

A large tiger walking over rocks in Bandhavgarh National Park

14. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Best for tiger encounters

The national parks of Madhya Pradesh are some of the best places on the planet to get close to royal Bengal tigers. Seeing one of these striped superstars loping out of the jungle will stay with you for a lifetime – as well as leaving you heartbroken at the thought of how few tigers still survive in the wild.

Everyone has their favorite tiger reserve, but we rate Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve near Jabalpur for the density of wildlife in its central Tala range. Around 70 tigers roam these dry forests, alongside leopards, monkeys, deer and gaur – India’s gigantic wild buffalo. There’s a high likelihood of sightings if you devote several days to 4WD safaris (elephant safaris should be avoided as riding can be harmful to these vulnerable animals).

Planning tip: The best time to see tigers is first thing in the morning – safaris start at 5:30am to catch tigers before they stake out a shady spot in the undergrowth to sleep through the heat of the day.

15. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Best for religious splendor

South India's Hindu temples are a joyous celebration of the divine, decorated inside and out with vividly colorful depictions of deities and supernatural beings, both fearsome and sublime. In the southern city of Madurai , the towering gopurams (gateway towers) of the Meenakshi Amman Temple provide a three-dimensional guide to the main deities of the Hindu pantheon.

The current temple was constructed in the 17th century, but the site has been sacred to Meenakshi, the queen of the Pandya kingdom and an incarnation of the goddess Parvati, for at least 2000 years. Come early in the morning to watch sunrise bring the temple to life, then pop to the nearest branch of Murugan Idli Shop for some of the south’s best idli (steamed rice and lentil cakes).

Detour: A short bus or train ride from Madurai, Tiruchirappalli – aka Trichy – is another top spot for temple enthusiasts. The looming Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the world’s largest Hindu shrines, covering 155 acres (63 hectares) and topped by 21 deity-encrusted towers. More temples crown the rocky outcrop at the heart of the city, offering epic views over the rooftops.

This article was first published Mar 20, 2022 and updated Dec 11, 2023.

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India, the architect of many firsts in SENA countries

With a win in the second Test against South Africa, India became the first Asian team to win a Test in Cape Town

Historically, India are the first Asian team to win for the first time in most of the iconic SENA country venues (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia), just like Cape Town. Apart from South Africa, they have series wins in all the other countries. In fact, they are the only Asian country to win a series in three of the four countries.

Series win in New Zealand, 1968

The 1968 tour to New Zealand was India's first tour of the country. In their first match itself, they went on to register a win. Interestingly, the win in the first Test was also their first away Test win. Before that, India had played 43 away Tests with 29 losses and 14 draws.

Though they lost the second Test, India won the other two and won the four-match series with a 3-1 timeline. Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi became the first Indian captain to win an away Test and a series. Erapalli Prasanna was the star of the series with 24 wickets, the highest. Bishan Singh Bedi was next on the list with 16.

With the bat, Ajit Wadekar managed 328 runs at an average of 46.85. Farookh Engineer and Rusi Surti had 321 runs each, averaging 40.1 and 45.85, respectively.

Pakistan, in 1965 were the first Asian team to tour New Zealand. But the three-match series ended in a draw (0-0). When India won the series in 1968, they became the first Asian team to win a series in a non-subcontinent nation. However, Pakistan won their next tour to New Zealand in 1973.

Series win in England, 1971

In the previous six tours to England before 1971, India had played 19 Tests without a win. They had lost 15 and drew four. Led by Wadekar, India drew the first two matches.

In the third, India fell short by 71 runs as they folded for 284. With a handy lead, England were in the driver's seat. However, the Indian spin trio, BS Chandrashekar, S Venkataraghavan, and Bedi, had different plans.

John Jamerson was dismissed via a run-out by BS Chandrashekhar at the score of 23, the first wicket. Then Chandra dismissed John Edrich for a five-ball duck & Keith Fletcher for a golden duck. The Indian spin trio pounced on them like hungry tigers to skittle England for 101. Chandrashekar was the hero with 6/38.

With 174 as the target, India lost their openers Sunil Gavaskar (0) and Ashok Mankad (11) cheaply. They were two down for 37 before skipper Wadekar and Dilip Sardesai steadied the ship and saw through the day (fourth).

But India lost Wadekar on their overnight score of 76 on Day 5. However, handy contributions by Gundappa Vishwanath (33), Sardesai (40), and Engineer (28*) helped India win the third Test.

The Indian spin trio ended up as the leading wicket-takers of the series. Chandra and Venkat led the list with 13, and Bedi had 11. They registered their first win and their first series win in England. After India, Pakistan were the next Asian team to win in England in 1987.

Series win in Australia, 2018/19

India made history on their 12th tour to Australia. India had lost eight series and drawn three since their first tour in 1947/48 till the 2014/15 series.

They came close to achieving this feat in the 1977/78 tour. Despite losing the first two Tests, they bounced back with a win in the next two to level the series. However, they agonizingly fell short by 47 runs chasing 493.

However, things were different in the 2018/19 series. They started with a win, lost the second, and won the third Test on Boxing Day (Tests on 26th December). India drew the Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground and won the series 2-1. Virat Kohli became the first Asian captain to achieve this feat.

With 521 runs at an average of 74.4, Cheteshwar Pujara was the shining star with the bat. Jasprit Bumrah, the leading wicket-taker of the series, was the hero for India with the ball as he bagged 21 wickets. Till now, India are the only Asian team to win a series in Australia, twice to be precise.

Few other firsts achieved by India in Tests

Though India have not won a series in South Africa, they have been the only team to beat the Proteas in a few of their fortresses.

-At SuperSport Park, Centurion, South Africa have lost only three Tests out of 29. Among the three, India in 2021 was one of them, alongside England in 2000 and Australia in 2014.

-India are the only Asian team to beat South Africa at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. They won a Test in 2006 and 2018.

-In the seventh attempt, India won a Test at the Newlands, Cape Town. Sri Lanka and Pakistan, in four attempts each, have lost all.

Similar to their feats in South Africa, India are the first Asian team to win a Test at the Adelaide Oval (Mts - 13, Won - 2, Lost - 8, Draw - 3). Pakistan, in five attempts, have lost two and drawn three.

-India are the only Asian team to win a Test at the Gabba, Brisbane (2021). Pakistan have played six Tests, losing five, and Sri Lanka have played three, losing two.

-In 1977, India became the first Asian team to win a Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

-India are the only team to win a Test at the old Perth Stadium (WACA). Pakistan (5) and Sri Lanka (2) lost all their games at this venue.

Notable mentions: India were the only Asian team to win a series in West Indies from 1953 till 2008. Their first series win came in 1971 when the West Indies were a force to reckon with.

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Professional pickleball signs first international deal, looks to grow the sport in India

Pickleball, America's fastest-growing sport, is looking to India to continue its growth.
The United Pickleball Association announced events starting in 2025 in India.
Major League Pickleball will also begin selling franchises in India.

America's fastest-growing sport , pickleball, is going after a new frontier: India.

The United Pickleball Association and Global Sports announced a deal on Thursday to bring the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball to the world's most populous country.

It's the first international deal and major announcement for the United Pickleball Association, which was created after a merger between Major League Pickleball and the Professional Pickleball Association last February.

The PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball retained their own distinct brands after the merger. The PPA Tour features an individual bracket-style tour, while MLP is a team-based format.

Terms of the deal were not available.

"The PPA Tour India and MLP India will create a pathway for players to compete on pickleball's biggest stage and reach the top of the sport. With the partnership of Global Sports, we will elevate the game and introduce it to millions of new fans," said Connor Pardoe, founder and CEO of the PPA Tour.

As part of the partnership, the PPA Tour will make an official tour stop in India next February. The Indian Open event will be the debut PPA Tour event in Asia and is expected to bring players from all over the world to participate.

The deal will also launch PPA Tour India, offering ranking points to players at events around the country.

Major League Pickleball, the team-based league, will hold a competition in India featuring a mix of players from India, as well as MLP and PPA Tour professionals.

United Pickleball Association said the group also plans to hold an open process to sell MLP franchises, with the goal of launching a full 12-team season in 2025-26.

Franchises are expected to cost in the seven-figure range, according to sources.

In September, Major League Pickleball announced its expansion into Australia .

The APP Tour, which represents both amateurs and seniors, has also been active in bringing the sport overseas to India, the United Kingdom, Spain and Sweden.

Global Sports, which was at the forefront of bringing pickleball to India, operates courts and organizes tournaments in India.

"Pickleball in India has grown by leaps in the last couple of years, and this will give existing players a platform to compete at the highest level," said Shashank Khaitan, partner at Global Sports.

A pickleball paddle and balls at the pickleball courts in Tropical Park on March 23, 2023, in Miami. (Jose A. Iglesias/El Nuevo Herald/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

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Newborn giraffe tries to take first steps on wobbly legs. Internet hearts it

A captivating video of a baby giraffe taking its first steps after its birth thrilled wildlife enthusiasts when the clip was posted by latest sightings on youtube. the footage was captured by johan van zyl from a south african tour-based operator, wild eye..

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A baby giraffe's birth and its first steps were captured on video, mesmerising people
The video was captured by a South African tour operator, who witnessed the event
The video has received around two lakh views since it was posted online

An incredible video of a newborn giraffe trying to take its first steps on wobbly legs has left wildlife enthusiasts with a broad smile. Johan Van Zyl from Wild Eye (South African-based tour operator) had the privilege of witnessing this extraordinary event. He shared the remarkable footage and story with Latest Sightings, who further posted it on their YouTube channel.

"While out on the drive, we spotted a female giraffe and we could instantly tell that something was different about her. Her body language and movement were not normal. As we approached, we discovered that she was in the process of giving birth — something that is not often seen, let alone caught on camera," Johan said.

With bated breath, Johan and his team observed from a respectful distance, understanding the delicate nature of the moment. Female giraffes are particularly vulnerable during childbirth and unable to defend themselves. Hence, minimising stress is crucial for the safety of both the mother and the newborn.

Describing the event, Johan said, "The process took around 45 minutes to an hour and we were able to witness the entire birth. First, the newborn's legs emerged from the mother, and bit by bit, the rest of the body became visible. As it came to an end, we could see the relief on the mother's face, and with a loud thump out came this tiny newborn giraffe."

It is important to note that giraffes give birth standing up, and as seen in the video, the calf's 6-foot drop to the ground may seem daunting. However, this process aids in its first breath and circulation.

Yet, it poses another challenge for the mother, who must remain vigilant against potential predators alerted by the afterbirth scent.

"We watched as the little one struggled to take to its feet, wobbling and falling over. This was incredibly cute and heartwarming for everyone to see. New life had been witnessed, and it was amazing to see how active the little calf was from the get-go," Johan remarked. He further said that the mother tenderly nudged and encouraged her offspring.

"After all the failed attempts, the calf eventually stood on its own. Being born with long legs and a long neck is no easy task. But it managed to eventually stand with some care from its mother," he added.

Witnessing its tentative first steps filled onlookers with joy and wonder.

"As the calf took its first tentative strides, we knew it was time to retreat, granting the mother and baby the solitude they deserved," Johan shared. "Respecting their space is essential during such critical moments, ensuring their well-being above all else," he said.

With hearts brimming with gratitude, Johan and his team departed, leaving behind a scene of newfound life and resilience in the untamed wilderness.

Since being shared online, the video has got around two lakh views. Wildlife enthusiasts have expressed their thoughts in the comments section of the post.

"I am so pleased to see how a baby is born," a user said. "Whoever captured this is so lucky," another said.

"How wonderful life is. Amazing how fast they stand up and automatically know how and where to nurse. Wow," another comment read. Published By: Ashmita Saha Published On: May 1, 2024 READ | Lioness teaches her 4 cubs to climb a tree in South Africa. Watch adorable video

India first phase election updates: Modi seeks third term in mammoth vote

Vote pits ruling coalition led by PM Narendra Modi’s BJP against Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, led by the Congress party.

This live page is now closed. You can continue to follow our coverage of India’s election here .

Ballots have closed in the first of the seven phases of India’s weeks-long general election.
The first phase included 166 million eligible voters in 102 constituencies across 21 states and union territories.
The polls are primarily pitting the National Democratic Alliance led by two-time Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) against the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, spearheaded by the main opposition party, Indian National Congress.
Voters will be electing representatives for the 543 seats of the Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of parliament. The party or coalition that secures a majority will form the next government.
Some 969 million registered voters are eligible to participate in the world’s largest democratic exercise over seven weeks. The results will be announced on June 4.

That’s a wrap from us

This live page is now closed. Thank you for joining us.

To read more about India’s mammoth national election, you can access our explainer here . You can also read our report on Modi and his BJP’s chances of winning in a key southern Indian state here .

Please check our home page for all the latest news.

Strife-torn Manipur votes in big numbers despite fears of violence

Voters in the violence-hit northeastern state of Manipur turned out in large numbers to vote in the shadow of ethnic clashes that killed at least 220 people within a year.

The state has been roiled by fighting between the majority Meitei and the Kuki-Zo communities since May. There were scattered incidents of violence on Friday despite heavy security.

Although election campaign meetings were held behind closed doors because of fears of violence in the state of 3.6 million people, there was 68 percent voter turnout by 5pm (11:30 GMT), when polling stations closed.

“We expect the turnout to go up a little. Overall, people turned up and came out to vote,” Pradeep Jha, Manipur’s chief election officer, said earlier in the day.

Here’s what happened today

We will be closing this live page soon. Here’s a recap of today’s events:

Voting in the first phase of India’s general election took place in 102 constituencies across 21 states as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third term.
The seven-phase election involves nearly a billion eligible voters in the largest democratic exercise in the world. Votes will be counted on June 4.
India’s Election Commission said there was nearly a 60 percent turnout in the first phase of the election as of 5pm (11:30 GMT).
Voting in some areas of the northeastern state of Manipur, which has been hit by ethnic riots, was disrupted after allegations of irregularities, Indian media reported.
A paramilitary security officer in Bijapur district of the central state of Chhattisgarh was injured in an “accidental” explosion, reports quoting the police said.
The next phase of the vote will be held on April 26 with 89 parliamentary seats up for grabs across 13 states.

Why Modi is eyeing a third term

If Modi wins, he will be only the second Indian leader to retain power for a third term after Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first prime minister.

The BJP controls much of Hindi-speaking northern and central India but is now trying to gain a foothold in the east and south. Its toughest challenge is in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, where voting was held for its 39 seats on Friday.

Modi’s two terms have seen civil liberties in India come under attack as he implements what critics say are discriminatory policies. Peaceful protests have been crushed with force. A once free and diverse media are threatened, violence is on the rise against the Muslim minority and government agencies have arrested opposition politicians in alleged corruption cases.

“Any party that comes back for a third term and with a brute majority is a scary prospect for democracy,” said Arati Jerath, a political commentator.

Modi government ‘controlled Muslims’ in district hit by 2013 riots

Muzaffarnagar district in northern Uttar Pradesh state saw deadly riots a decade ago, but religious divisions still influenced voters in an election in which Hindu nationalism is a key theme.

Clashes broke out here in 2013 after two Hindus stabbed a Muslim youth to death, accusing him of sexually harassing their sister. They were later beaten to death by a Muslim mob, which caused riots that killed about 65 people, mostly Muslims, and displaced thousands.

Violence has not returned to the sugarcane belt, but political divisions remain.

Modi’s government has “controlled Muslims”, said Ramesh Chand, a Hindu biscuit baker in Kairana city near Muzaffarnagar.

In Jaula village, sugarcane farmer Mohammed Irfan, 50, said Modi’s “high-handedness against Muslims” as well as unemployment and inflation were major reasons for him voting for the opposition Samajwadi Party.

#WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Voting for the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections concludes in Muzaffarnagar. pic.twitter.com/T7zxd7pOU0 — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024

Poll panel says 60 percent voter turnout till 5pm

India’s election commission says there was nearly 60 percent turnout in the parliamentary election as of 5pm (11:30 GMT), the Press Trust of India news agency reports.

Ballots are about to close in the first of the seven phases of the weeks-long general election.

In the multiphase 2019 polls, the national voting average was 67 percent.

West Bengal records 77.57% voter turnout till 5pm, the highest amongst the State/UTs voting in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls today. pic.twitter.com/uOFl9vuUJ0 — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024

How is the government formed?

Photos: Voters head to polls in West Bengal

A woman from the Toto tribe leaves a polling station after casting her vote during the first phase of general election, in Alipurduar district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, April 19, 2024.

Gap between BJP, opposition not ‘necessarily unsurmountable’

Surveys show a big gap between Modi’s BJP and the opposition in this election, but it was not “necessarily unsurmountable”, says political analyst Sandeep Shastri of research firm Lokniti Network.

“Many voters say that we take our decision on who to vote for during campaigning and many say we do it closer to the day of voting,” he said.

“So there is also scope for campaigning to impact the nature of the verdict.”

But some BJP insiders and analysts say the party is worried about complacency or overconfidence among voters and party members, and needs to draw more people to vote.

BJP politician to Al Jazeera: ‘Opposition in disarray’

BJP spokesman Mohan Krishna says his party will sweep the election, winning 400 of 543 seats.

“The opposition is in disarray,” he told Al Jazeera. “The welfare schemes … a corruptionless government,” led by Modi has given “immense satisfaction as well as confidence to the people”.

Krishna said allegations of backsliding of democracy under Modi were “absolutely rubbish”.

“Democracy and the constitution are held high by the BJP and we have proved that … in the last 10 years,” he said.

Voters boycott election in Bihar village: Report

Residents in the village of Nehuta in Bihar state’s Aurangabad district are boycotting the vote over development issues, the Press Trust of India news agency reports.

Bihar, located in the east, is one of the poorest and least developed states in the country. But with 40 parliamentary seats, it’s also a politically crucial state, currently governed by a BJP-led coalition.

VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Residents of Nehuta village in Aurangabad, Bihar, boycott polling over development issues. #LSPolls2024WithPTI #LokSabhaElections2024 (Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvqRQz ) pic.twitter.com/jfjGzq69H4 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 19, 2024

Who rules the states that vote in the first phase?

Tamil Nadu is governed by an alliance led by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, one of the main opposition parties
Modi’s BJP rules in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Assam, Manipur, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh
The BJP is also in power through alliances in Maharashtra, Bihar, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim and Puducherry
Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are federally governed with no democratically elected government
Indian-administered Kashmir is also ruled from New Delhi, with no state elections since the Modi government scrapped its special status in 2019
West Bengal is governed by the All India Trinamool Congress Party, a part of the opposition’s INDIA alliance
A coalition of six regional parties, the Zoram People’s Movement, governs Mizoram

Key constituencies voting in the first phase

Here’s a brief list of some of the most important among 102 constituencies voting on Friday:

Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh: The epicentre of anti-Muslim riots in 2013 that some observers believe helped the BJP win big in India’s most populous state in 2014 (72 out of 80 seats). The constituency, and its neighbouring seats, have a significant Muslim population, but the BJP’s ability to consolidate Hindu votes helped it win in 2014 and 2019.

Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Modi’s BJP has traditionally struggled to break through the southern state of Tamil Nadu , where it won zero out of the 39 seats in 2019. This time, the party is betting on a rising star, the party’s state leader K Annamalai, to deliver an unlikely win from Coimbatore.

Nagpur, Maharashtra: Federal transport minister Nitin Gadkari – a senior BJP leader who some political analysts view as a potential challenger to Modi – is contesting from Nagpur, a city famous for its oranges. Nagpur is also the headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the Hindu majoritarian umbrella group that is the ideological mentor of the BJP.

Manipur: Both of the northeastern state’s two seats are voting in the first phase on April 19, and in part in the second phase on April 26. The elections are being held in the backdrop of ethnic strife that has effectively fractured Manipur between its plains – where the majority Meitei community predominantly lives – and the hills – where the Kuki community lives. More than 200 people have been killed in clashes since last May between the two communities, with many blaming the state’s BJP government for a biased role and for its failure to stop the violence. Will it pay a political price?

Voting in Chhattisgarh state ‘always a challenge’

Holding elections in Chhattisgarh state’s Bastar is an immense logistical and security challenge, with dense forests providing ample cover for Maoist rebels, say officials.

“Setting up polling stations and conducting voting in a peaceful manner has always been a challenge because of left-wing extremism,” the state’s chief electoral officer Reena Kangale told AFP news agency.

“Much of the area is also mined, so access is a problem without loss of life and limb.”

In recent days, hundreds of security personnel have been searching for improvised explosives on new roads deep inside dense forests to protect polling officials.

Ajay Dikshit, 57, a government school principal seconded to election duty, said his family had pressed him to turn down the assignment.

“I am government employee and I can’t refuse an order,” he said before voting day, while awaiting a helicopter ride to his post. “I just hope that everything works out well.”

The Indian village where all polling officers are women

The officers at a polling station in Chedema village in the tiny mountain state of Nagaland are all women.

The Northern Angami constituency is Nagaland’s first to be solely managed by women polling officers. It was the idea of Kumar Ramnikant, the administrative head of Kohima district, in hopes of breaking job stereotypes.

“If our country needs proper develop then there should be equal contribution from both halves,” Ramnikant said. “Empowerment should not only be at the top level, it should be at the bottom level also. It should be at all layers for real empowerment.”

“Women are more systematic. They take every sentence seriously whereas men have an easy attitude,” said Zhoto Khamo, an officer who has supervised many elections.

Manipur’s BJP CM inflamed conflict: Assam Rifles report on ethnic violence

Reporting from Kangpokpi/Imphal

For nearly a year now, the majority Meitei and the mainly Christian Kuki-Zo communities in India’s northeastern state of Manipur have been locked in what is arguably the country’s longest running ethnic conflict in the 21st century.

The conflict has killed at least 219 people, injured 1,100 others and displaced 60,000. It has also revived an array of armed groups, sweeping up men and boys as recruits from both communities.

An assessment of the violence by Assam Rifles – the federal government’s paramilitary force – puts part of the blame on the state government, headed by Chief Minister N Biren Singh, a member of Modi’s Hindu nationalist BJP and his “political authoritarianism and ambition”.

The report is significant because Modi in his election campaign speeches asserted that the federal government’s timely intervention had led to a “marked improvement in the situation” in Manipur.

Polling stopped in some Manipur seats after ‘ruckus’: Report

Voting in some areas of Manipur’s capital Imphal has been halted, Indian news agency ANI reports.

“Polling stopped at 5 Thongju, 31 Khongman Zone in Imphal after some women alleged irregularities and created a ruckus,” ANI said in a post on X.

For nearly a year, the northeastern state bordering Myanmar has been gripped in what is arguably the country’s longest-running ethnic conflict between the majority Meitei and the Kuki-Zo communities.

The conflict has killed more than 200 people and displaced tens of thousands as Modi’s government faced criticism for failing to control the violence in the state governed by his BJP party.

#WATCH | Manipur: Polling stopped at 5 Thongju, 31 Khongman Zone in Imphal after some women alleged irregularities and created a ruckus. The polling officer closed the polling booth: Imphal East DC #LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/OvkLOp7wBp — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024

When will the results be announced?

Publication of exit-poll data while an election is in progress is illegal under Indian law, so any indication of which way the vote is trending will only come after the last phase of voting concludes on June 1.

Formal ballot counting begins three days later on June 4, though the use of electronic voting machines means tallying will be quick. Results should be announced on the same day.

The party with a simple majority of 273 or more seats in the lower house is invited to form a government with its choice of prime minister. If no single party reaches that mark, India’s president will ask the leading party to try to put together a coalition.

Previously, that has led to days – and sometimes weeks – of intense horse-trading and negotiations between parties to cobble together a working majority.

Four Indian states also holding assembly elections

While Indians are voting in a crucial parliamentary election, voters in four states are also participating in legislative polls over the next few weeks.

Andhra Pradesh in the south, neighbouring Odisha, and Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh in the northeast will pick new state assemblies alongside the Lok Sabha election.

Of these, all the 60 assembly constituencies in Arunachal Pradesh and 32 in Sikkim are voting on Friday, while the other two states will also hold a second phase of state polls.

Many Hindus voting for Modi and ‘civilisational glory’

Elderly Hindu monk Ram Bhakt, 96, is braving searing heat as he hobbles through the narrow lanes of Haridwar, one of India’s holiest cities in the Himalayas, to vote for Modi and his faith.

“I am voting for India’s civilisational glory,” said the wizened nonagenarian, clad in a simple saffron robe and resting his weight on a wooden walking stick, his wrinkled forehead smeared with vermilion and ash.

“Under Modi, our country has become what we sages had always hoped for,” he told the AFP news agency.

Shiv Shankar Giri, a young man serving in a Hindu monastic order in Haridwar, said he had cast his vote for “the one who had brought Ram”, the Hindu god.

Earlier this year, Modi inaugurated a grand Ram temple, built near the site in Ayodhya, another holy town in Uttar Pradesh state, where a 16th-century mosque was demolished by a Hindu mob in 1992.

“We are all voting for the person who has made Hinduism strong,” said the 28-year-old. “We are voting for Modi.”

Modi ‘doesn’t believe in democracy’: Academic

As Modi seeks a third straight term, India’s opposition parties and critics have repeatedly warned that the Hindu nationalist prime minister has turned increasingly illiberal.

“Modi has a very authoritarian mindset,” Christophe Jaffrelot, a political scientist, told the Associated Press.

“He doesn’t believe in democracy. He doesn’t believe in parliamentarianism,” said Jaffrelot, who has previously written about Modi and the Hindu right.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi displays the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) symbol, lotus, during a road show while campaigning for national elections, in Chennai, India

Modi insists India’s commitment to democracy is unchanged.

“India is not only fulfilling the aspirations of its 1.4 billion people, but is also providing hope to the world that democracy delivers and empowers,” he told a Summit for Democracy meeting in New Delhi last month.

40 percent voter turnout till 1pm local time: Reports

The average turnout recorded across 102 seats voting on Friday was nearly 40 percent at 1pm local time (07:30 GMT), media reports said.

Almost zero voting was recorded across six districts in the northeastern state of Nagaland after a prominent local organisation declared a “public emergency” and asked the locals to boycott the vote, India’s NDTV website reported.

The Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation is demanding a separate administration with more financial autonomy, the report said.

Clashes between rival political groups were also reported from some constituencies in the eastern West Bengal state.

#LokSabhaElections2024 | Voter turnout till 1 pm for phase 1 of polling: Lakshadweep records the lowest – 29.91% Tripura records the highest – 53.04% pic.twitter.com/Pd03IigQ0K — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024

How dubious YouTube ‘news’ channels are boosting Modi in election

Reporting from Mumbai

India, with more than 460 million users, is YouTube’s largest market, with four out of five internet users in India consuming its content.

As more and more Indians get their news from YouTube, what is on offer is not always news. Some of the most popular YouTube channels in India are offering a smattering of disinformation and Islamophobia, often cheerleading PM Modi and his BJP while targeting its critics and opposition leaders.

What makes these channels unique is that they claim to be “news” channels, ostensibly presenting fact-based reportage. But the reality is different.

Read the full story here .

‘We exist’: A Himayalan hamlet, forgotten by Indian democracy

Reporting from Totopara, India

As India votes, Jiten Toto from Totopara in West Bengal state says he has little hope that anything will change in a tiny corner of the country whose unique residents feel they have long been forgotten by the world’s largest democracy.

One of the smallest tribes in the world, the total Toto population is estimated at about 1,670 people with nearly 75 percent of them eligible to vote.

Many Totos say their small numbers and remote geography mean that politicians have repeatedly ignored their concerns.

“Not much has been done for our development. We still face poor roads and pathetic health services,” says Jiten. “No political leader after the poll has ever come here to take stock of our situation.”

You can read more of this story here .

Jiten Toto, with his bamboo stick, outside his house in Totopara, a tiny hamlet nestled in the lower Himalayas of West Bengal, India [Gurvinder Singh/Al Jazeera]

What do Lakshadweep voters, caught in India-Maldives spat, want?

In December, a diplomatic crisis erupted between India and the Maldives when Modi visited the Indian Ocean island of Lakshadweep and released a video, inviting tourists.

The Maldives, South Asia’s smallest nation and a tourist paradise, perceived the visit as an Indian attempt to woo tourists away from its resorts. Some Maldives ministers used coarse language against Modi on social media, causing a dispute.

But back in Lakshadweep, voters do not want their islands caught up in a tussle between two countries. They have more fundamental questions for their government – and for Modi.

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India's six-week long elections started today

Nearly a billion people start going to the polls in India Friday, as the worlds largest democracy starts its mammoth election.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

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Bangladesh Cricket : Tigers
222 likes, 2 comments - bangladeshtigers on April 30, 2024: "India Women's Team Tour of Bangladesh 2024 | 2nd T20i Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first Details : https://www.tiger...". Bangladesh Cricket : Tigers | India Women's Team Tour of Bangladesh 2024 | 2nd T20i Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first Details 👉 ...
India first phase election updates: Modi seeks third term in mammoth
This live page is now closed. You can continue to follow our coverage of India's election here.. Ballots have closed in the first of the seven phases of India's weeks-long general election ...
India's six-week long elections started today : NPR
MARY LOUISE KELLY, HOST: Today marks the start of India's elections. Just the start because this is the world's biggest democracy - nearly a billion voters are eligible to cast their ballots over ...