India

Plan your trip to India

India is a vast subcontinent of 28 states and 8 union territories spanning deserts, jungles, mountains, beaches, and ancient temples—offering everything from spiritual pilgrimages to adventure sports. First-time visitors can experience Mughal architecture, colonial hill stations, backwater houseboats, and some of the world's most vibrant cities, all within vastly different climates and cultures. A single trip typically covers one or two regions, as distances are large and travel between them takes significant time.

Getting there & around

Major international airports serve Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai; domestic flights connect all major cities and are often faster than trains for long distances. The Indian railway network is extensive and affordable, with options from budget to luxury trains; road travel requires either hiring a driver or renting a car with a valid international driving permit. Most travelers combine flights between regions with trains or hired cars within them.

How long to stay

Plan 10–14 days minimum to experience one region deeply (e.g., Rajasthan or Kerala) or two regions with time for transit and acclimatization. Longer trips of 3+ weeks allow meaningful exploration across three diverse regions without exhausting travel days.

When to go

October to March is peak season across most of India, with cool dry weather ideal for sightseeing; avoid April–June (extreme heat) and July–September (monsoon rains), though Kerala's monsoon is a unique draw. Winter months suit the north; coastal regions and south India are pleasant year-round but less crowded after March.

Suggested itinerary

1. Arrive Delhi, explore Old Delhi — Land in Delhi and head to Old Delhi to walk through the chaotic bazaars of Chandni Chowk, visit the Red Fort, and see Jama Masjid. Settle into your hotel and eat street food as the sun sets.
2. Delhi's monuments and museums — Visit New Delhi's grand architecture—India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Humayun's Tomb—and explore the National Museum or a local market like Connaught Place. Rest and prepare for onward travel.
3. Fly to Jaipur, City Palace and bazaars — Fly or train to Jaipur (4–5 hours). Explore the geometric City Palace, the pink-hued old town, and the Jantar Mantar observatory before wandering bazaars for textiles and jewelry.
4. Day trip to Amber Fort — Drive 30 minutes to Amber Fort, climbing to the palace via steps or jeep to see intricate inlay work, courtyards, and sweeping views over Jaipur's valley. Return to the city for an evening bazaar walk.
5. Jaipur to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri — Travel 4 hours to Agra, stopping at the abandoned red-stone city of Fatehpur Sikri en route. Check into Agra and rest before the Taj Mahal visit.
6. Taj Mahal and Agra Fort at dawn — Wake early to enter Taj Mahal at sunrise, watching the marble change color with the light. Spend the afternoon at the red sandstone Agra Fort and the local bazaar.
7. Travel to Varanasi — Catch a flight or overnight train to Varanasi (10–12 hours by train, 1 hour by flight). Arrive and take an evening boat ride on the Ganges to watch pilgrims bathe and see the illuminated ghats.
8. Varanasi ghats and temples — Rise before dawn for a second Ganges boat ride, then explore the dense alleyways, ancient temples like Kashi Vishwanath, and the chaotic energy of this sacred city. Watch evening aarti (fire ceremony) at the ghats.
9. Fly south to Kerala, arrive in Kochi — Fly to Kochi (Cochin) in Kerala, a coastal port city blending Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences. Walk through the old town, visit the spice markets, and see the traditional Chinese fishing nets.
10. Backwaters and village life — Take a long-tail boat through Kerala's backwaters, gliding past coconut plantations, fishing villages, and lagoons. Enjoy fresh seafood and a slower pace than the north.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do I need for India?

A meaningful first trip requires 10–14 days to explore one or two regions without constant travel; 3+ weeks allows you to see three distinct areas (north, central, south) with less rushing. Trips under a week work only if you focus on a single city like Delhi or Mumbai.

Is it safe to travel in India as a solo woman?

India is visited safely by many solo female travelers, though petty theft and occasional harassment occur in crowded areas; avoid traveling alone late at night, dress conservatively in non-touristy areas, and use registered taxis or apps like Uber. Stick to well-trodden routes (Rajasthan, Kerala, Varanasi), travel with tour groups if desired, and trust your instincts.

What is the cheapest month to visit India?

May to August is cheapest due to extreme heat and monsoon rains, with prices dropping 30–50% on hotels and tours; however, many attractions close, roads flood, and heat can exceed 45°C (113°F) in the north. For the best value with decent weather, visit in September–October when monsoon ends and crowds haven't yet arrived for peak season.

Do I need a visa for India?

Most foreign nationals require a visa; tourist e-visas (valid 30 days) can be obtained online quickly and cost $25 USD for US citizens, with varying rates by nationality. Alternatively, you can apply for a paper visa at an Indian embassy (takes 2–4 weeks) or get a visa on arrival at major airports, though this is less reliable.

Is food safety a concern when traveling in India?

Tap water is unsafe to drink; use bottled water and avoid ice in drinks, though street food in busy stalls is often safer than quiet restaurants because high turnover means fresher ingredients. Traveler's diarrhea is common in the first few days as your stomach adjusts; eating cooked hot meals at established eateries and peeling fruits yourself reduces risk.