Discover India's Rich Heritage and Culture

From ancient temples to vibrant festivals and diverse landscapes - explore when and how to visit this incredible subcontinent safely

India. Uttar Pradesh state. Agra. Taj Mahal. White marble mausoleum built by the Muslim Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Indian people visit the The Taj Mahal

India's Fascinating Destinations Await You

Experience iconic landmarks, vibrant festivals, and diverse cultural heritage

When to Explore India

The best time to visit India depends on your priorities

The best time to visit India depends on your priorities—affordability, favorable sightseeing weather, or experiencing cultural events. Here's a guide:

💰 Most Affordable Time

Late June to September (monsoon season) and April to June (summer) are less expensive periods. With fewer tourists, accommodation and tours cost less, especially in hot or rainy regions.

🌞 Best Weather for Sightseeing

From October to March, enjoy comfortable weather for sightseeing. The northern regions are cool, and the south has pleasant tropical climates, free from extreme heat or heavy rain.

🎭 Cultural Festivals and Events

Oct-Nov Diwali: Festival of Lights, celebrated in October or November with lights and fireworks
March Holi: Festival of Colors in March, with vibrant celebrations and joy
Jan 26 Republic Day: January 26th, a grand parade in New Delhi showcasing India's cultural heritage

📍 Travel Recommendations

For budget-conscious travelers, shoulder seasons like September and March offer cost-effective trips. Plan for winter months (October to March) for pleasant weather, or visit during festivals like Diwali or Holi for cultural vibrance.

THANJAVUR

Ancient temples and cultural heritage sites showcase India's rich architectural history

Stay Informed

Important travel tips and safety information for India

Traveling to India is an enriching experience, offering an array of sights, sounds, and flavors. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, here are some essential travel tips, safety advice, and areas to be cautious of:

🛡️ Travel Advisories and Safety

💊
Health Precautions: Consult with a travel clinic for necessary vaccinations and medications, considering India's risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and malaria. Always drink bottled or purified water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach ailments.
🚗
Transport Safety: Traffic can be chaotic, and road safety standards may differ from what you're used to. Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing apps, and be cautious when crossing streets.
💰
Scams: Be aware of common scams targeting tourists, such as inflated prices, fake tour guides, and gemstone or currency exchange fraud. Always negotiate prices in advance and use government-approved shops for significant purchases.

⚠️ Areas to Exercise Caution

📍
Border Regions: It's advisable to avoid areas close to the borders with Pakistan, China, and Bangladesh due to ongoing tensions and security issues. These areas can be prone to unrest and may require special permits for travel.
🌆
Certain Urban Areas: While cities like New Delhi and Mumbai are popular with tourists, they also have areas that are best avoided, especially after dark. Research and ask for local advice on which neighborhoods to steer clear of.
🏔️
Jammu and Kashmir: Due to political unrest and security concerns, some parts of this region are less safe for tourists. If visiting, stay informed about the current situation and consider guided tours for safety.

💡 General Tips

🎎
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
📶
Connectivity: While Wi-Fi is available in many urban areas, consider getting a local SIM card for better coverage, especially if traveling to more remote regions.
🛍️
Bargaining: Haggling is a common practice in markets and with street vendors. It's part of the shopping experience but do so respectfully.

🌍 Environmental Considerations

🌫️
Pollution: Air quality in major cities can be poor, especially during winter months. Those with respiratory conditions should take necessary precautions, such as wearing masks or avoiding outdoor activities on particularly bad days.

Ready for Your Indian Adventure? By staying informed and cautious, respecting local laws and customs, and preparing for India's unique travel environment, your visit can be a memorable and positive experience.

Join the Journey

Discover India's rich heritage and vibrant culture with our expertly crafted itineraries

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India - 24 July, 2024: Hawa Mahal palace facade features intricate lattice windows and pink sandstone arches, showcasing a iconic Indian heritage landmark and Mughal-inspired design in a vibrant city setting.

Experience the magnificent Hawa Mahal in Jaipur - a stunning example of India's architectural heritage

Golden Triangle in One Week

A one-week journey through India introduces you to the Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - offering a glimpse into India's rich heritage, majestic monuments, and vibrant street life.

1-2 Delhi

  • Activities: Explore Red Fort, rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, visit Jama Masjid, India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, and Lotus Temple.
  • Transport: Use Delhi Metro and taxis for convenient city travel.

3 Agra

  • Activities: Visit the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore Agra Fort and Baby Taj (Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb).
  • Transport: Early morning express train from Delhi (2 hours). Use taxis locally.

4-6 Jaipur & Return

  • Activities: Visit Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal. Shop in vibrant bazaars. Return to Delhi for departure.
  • Transport: Bus or train from Agra (4-6 hours). Return to Delhi by train (4-6 hours).

Travel Tips

Packing: Light cotton clothing, sunscreen, and hat essential.

Health: Stick to bottled water and ensure vaccinations.

Etiquette: Dress modestly at religious sites. Remove shoes.

This itinerary offers a glimpse into India's historical and cultural richness! 🕌🐘

India in Two Weeks

A two-week journey allows you to dive deeper into India's diverse landscapes, including the Golden Triangle, desert city of Jaisalmer, blue city of Jodhpur, romantic Udaipur, and bustling Mumbai.

1 Week 1: Golden Triangle and Rajasthan

Day 1-3: Delhi & Agra
  • Activities: Explore Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Humayun's Tomb. Visit Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
  • Transport: Metro and taxis in Delhi. Train to Agra (2-3 hours).
Day 4-5: Jaipur
  • Activities: Visit Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal. Shop in vibrant markets.
  • Transport: Train or bus from Agra (4-6 hours).
Day 6-7: Jaisalmer
  • Activities: Explore Jaisalmer Fort, visit Patwon Ki Haveli, enjoy camel safari in Thar Desert.
  • Transport: Fly or overnight train from Jaipur (12 hours).

2 Week 2: Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Mumbai

Day 8-9: Jodhpur
  • Activities: Visit Mehrangarh Fort, explore the blue city, see Jaswant Thada.
  • Transport: Bus or train from Jaisalmer (6 hours).
Day 10-11: Udaipur
  • Activities: City Palace, boat ride on Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon-ki-Bari gardens.
  • Transport: Bus or train from Jodhpur (4-6 hours).
Day 12-14: Mumbai
  • Activities: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, markets, Haji Ali Dargah, Juhu Beach.
  • Transport: Fly from Udaipur (1.5 hours). Use local trains and taxis.

Travel Tips

Packing: Light clothing for day, warmer layers for desert evenings.
Health: Stay hydrated, cautious with street food. Carry water purification.
Currency: Carry cash in smaller denominations. ATMs in larger cities.
Etiquette: Dress modestly. Ask permission before photos of people.

Experience India's incredible diversity from historic forts to vibrant cities! 🏛️✨

India in Three Weeks

A three-week journey offers immersive exploration of India's vast diversity, from vibrant Delhi to Kerala's backwaters, Tamil Nadu's temples, and Mumbai's cosmopolitan vibe.

1 Week 1: Delhi, Agra, and Rajasthan

Day 1-3: Delhi & Agra
  • Activities: Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Lotus Temple. Visit Taj Mahal at sunrise.
  • Transport: Metro and taxis. Train to Agra (2-3 hours).
Day 4-5: Jaipur
  • Activities: Explore Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal. Shopping in local markets.
  • Transport: Train or bus from Agra (4-5 hours).
Day 6-7: Jodhpur
  • Activities: Visit Mehrangarh Fort, explore blue city, see Jaswant Thada.
  • Transport: Train or bus from Jaipur (5-6 hours).

2 Week 2: Udaipur, Mumbai, and Kerala

Day 8-9: Udaipur
  • Activities: City Palace, boat ride on Lake Pichola, explore Jagdish Temple.
  • Transport: Bus or train from Jodhpur (4-6 hours).
Day 10-11: Mumbai
  • Activities: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, enjoy local cuisine.
  • Transport: Fly from Udaipur (1.5 hours).
Day 12-14: Kerala
  • Activities: Houseboat in Alleppey backwaters, tea gardens in Munnar, historic Fort Kochi.
  • Transport: Fly Mumbai to Kochi (2 hours). Local taxis/buses.

3 Week 3: Tamil Nadu and Return

Day 15-16: Madurai
  • Activities: Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal.
  • Transport: Train or bus from Kochi (6-8 hours).
Day 17-18: Chennai
  • Activities: Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, experience Tamil culture.
  • Transport: Train (7-8 hours) or flight (1 hour).
Day 19-21: Delhi
  • Activities: Last-minute shopping for souvenirs, culinary delights, prepare for departure.
  • Transport: Fly Chennai to Delhi (2.5 hours).

Travel Tips

Packing: Climate varies dramatically. Pack light clothing plus warm layers.
Health: Bottled water only. Avoid street food if sensitive. Carry medications.
Safety: Keep belongings secure in crowds. Use registered taxis.
Culture: Respect local customs. Dress modestly. Remove shoes at temples.

This comprehensive journey offers deep immersion into India's incredible diversity and rich cultural heritage! 🇮🇳🌟

Ready for Your Indian Adventure?

From the Taj Mahal to Kerala's backwaters - India awaits your discovery!

Discover India

Your Ultimate Indian Adventure

From stunning monuments to vibrant festivals, diverse landscapes to hidden gems - explore the best destinations across India

India. Uttar Pradesh state. Agra. Taj Mahal. White marble mausoleum built by the Muslim Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Indian people visit the The Taj Mahal

🕌 The majestic Taj Mahal - one of the Seven Wonders of the World and India's most iconic landmark. Start your Indian journey at this timeless symbol of love, then explore 31 more incredible destinations across this diverse subcontinent.

Taj Mahal

1-2 Days

Activities: Visit Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore Agra Fort, visit Baby Taj

Accommodation: Heritage hotels, luxury resorts

Specialties: Petha, Mughlai cuisine

Mumbai

2-3 Days

Activities: Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Marine Drive

Accommodation: Luxury hotels, boutique hostels

Specialties: Vada Pav, Bombay Sandwich

Jaipur

2-3 Days

Activities: Explore Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal

Accommodation: Palace hotels, boutique guesthouses

Specialties: Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas

Goa

3-5 Days

Activities: Beach relaxation, Old Goa churches, water sports

Accommodation: Beach resorts, budget stays, luxury villas

Specialties: Goan seafood, Feni

New Delhi

1-2 Days

Activities: Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Lodhi Gardens

Accommodation: Business hotels, heritage stays

Specialties: Butter Chicken, Chaat, Kebabs

Kerala

3-4 Days

Activities: Backwaters cruise, Munnar tea gardens, Varkala Beach

Accommodation: Houseboats, eco-resorts

Specialties: Appam with stew, fish curry

Manali

3-4 Days

Activities: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Himalayan trekking

Accommodation: Mountain lodges, boutique hotels

Specialties: Himachali Dham, Madra

Rishikesh

2-3 Days

Activities: Yoga on the Ganges, Lakshman Jhula, white water rafting

Accommodation: Ashrams, riverside camps

Specialties: Pahadi dishes, Aloo Ke Gutke

Darjeeling

2-3 Days

Activities: Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill sunrise, tea plantations

Accommodation: Tea estate resorts, cozy homestays

Specialties: Darjeeling tea, Momos

Leh-Ladakh

4-5 Days

Activities: Buddhist monasteries, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake

Accommodation: Guesthouses, tent camps

Specialties: Momos, Thukpa

Andaman Islands

5-7 Days

Activities: Scuba diving, Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail

Accommodation: Beach resorts, eco-stays

Specialties: Fresh seafood, coconut-based delicacies

Sikkim

2-3 Days

Activities: Tsomgo Lake Trek, Rumtek Monastery, Yumthang Valley

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, mountain lodges

Specialties: Thenthuk, Gundruk soup

Shillong

2-3 Days

Activities: Living Root Bridges, Shillong Peak, local music scene

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, eco-lodges

Specialties: Jadoh, Tungrymbai, Khasi cuisine

Varanasi

2 Days

Activities: Ganga Aarti, sunrise boat ride, old city lanes

Accommodation: Riverside guesthouses, heritage hotels

Specialties: Kachori Sabzi, Banarasi Paan

Udaipur

2-3 Days

Activities: City Palace, Lake Pichola boat ride, Sajjangarh Palace

Accommodation: Lake hotels, heritage havelis

Specialties: Rajasthani Thali, Jalebi

Pondicherry

2-3 Days

Activities: French Quarter walk, Paradise Beach, Auroville

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, beach stays

Specialties: French-inspired cuisine, seafood

Hampi, Karnataka

2-3 Days

Activities: Vijayanagara ruins, Matanga Hill, coracle ride

Accommodation: Heritage lodges, budget stays

Specialties: Kharabath, Jolad Roti

Mysore, Karnataka

1-2 Days

Activities: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Mysore Zoo

Accommodation: Luxury hotels, guesthouses

Specialties: Mysore Pak, Ragi Mudde

Munnar, Kerala

2-3 Days

Activities: Tea plantations, trekking, Western Ghats nature

Accommodation: Mountain resorts, eco-lodges

Specialties: Kerala Sadya, cardamom dishes

Pushkar, Rajasthan

2-3 Days

Activities: Camel Fair, Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake

Accommodation: Boutique stays, heritage guesthouses

Specialties: Malpua, Dal Baati Churma

Amritsar, Punjab

1-2 Days

Activities: Golden Temple, Wagah Border ceremony, Jallianwala Bagh

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, temple guesthouses

Specialties: Amritsari Kulcha, Butter Chicken

Gangtok, Sikkim

2-3 Days

Activities: Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, local markets

Accommodation: Cozy homestays, boutique resorts

Specialties: Thukpa, Momos, bamboo shoot curry

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

2-3 Days

Activities: Matrimandir, spiritual community, nearby beaches

Accommodation: Eco-villages, retreats

Specialties: Vegan and organic cuisine, South Indian coffee

Ranthambore, Rajasthan

1-2 Days

Activities: Tiger safari, Ranthambore Fort

Accommodation: Jungle lodges, wildlife resorts

Specialties: Rajasthani Thali, homemade pickles

Kolkata

2-3 Tage

Aktivitäten: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Hooghly River Bootsfahrt

Unterkunft: Boutique-Hotels, gemütliche Gästehäuser

Spezialitäten: Rosogolla, Kathi Rolls, Macher Jhol

Jaisalmer

2-3 Tage

Aktivitäten: Jaisalmer Fort, Thar Wüste Dünen-Bashing, Kamel-Safari

Unterkunft: Wüstencamps, Heritage-Hotels

Spezialitäten: Ghevar, Ker Sangri

Kaziranga

2-3 Tage

Aktivitäten: Nashorn-Safari, Brahmaputra Bootsfahrt, Tee-Plantagen

Unterkunft: Dschungel-Lodges, Ökotourismus-Resorts

Spezialitäten: Assam-Tee, Khaar-Gerichte

Ajanta & Ellora

1-2 Tage

Aktivitäten: Erkunde Felshöhlen mit Skulpturen und Gemälden

Unterkunft: Nahe gelegene Gästehäuser, Budget-Hotels

Spezialitäten: Maharashtrian Thali, Puran Poli

Coorg

2-3 Tage

Aktivitäten: Kaffeeplantagen, Abbey Falls, Trekking durch grüne Hügel

Unterkunft: Homestays, Öko-Resorts

Spezialitäten: Coorgi Pandi Curry, Kaffee

Dharamshala

3-4 Tage

Aktivitäten: Dalai Lama Tempel, Triund Hill Trek, Bhagsu Wasserfall

Unterkunft: Berglodges, Budget-Gästehäuser

Spezialitäten: Tibetische Momos, Thukpa, Kräutertees

Spiti Valley

4-5 Tage

Aktivitäten: Himalaya-Trekking, Key Kloster, Tal-Kultur

Unterkunft: Homestays, Gästehäuser, Öko-Resorts

Spezialitäten: Thukpa, Butter-Tee, Gerste-Gerichte

Kutch

2-3 Tage

Aktivitäten: White Rann of Kutch, Kutch Museum, Rann Utsav Festival

Unterkunft: Zelt-Städte, Boutique-Resorts

Spezialitäten: Kutchi Dabeli, Bajra Rotla, Khichdi

Ready for Your India Adventure?

Discover the incredible diversity of India - from majestic mountains to tropical beaches, from spiritual temples to vibrant cities.

32+ Destinations
All Budgets
Unforgettable Experiences
Deep Dive Travel Guide

Exploring India

Unearth Hidden Tales and Discover India's Lesser-Known Treasures

Exploring India through its less-trodden paths offers an enriching experience that delves deep into the country's rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and history. A four-week journey is ideal to appreciate the diversity and depth of India's lesser-known gems while allowing for meaningful interactions and immersive experiences.

1

North India

Culture and History

  • Amritsar: Begin with the spiritual heart of Sikhism at the Golden Temple. Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and partake in the Langar (community kitchen).
  • Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj: Explore the home of the Tibetan government-in-exile. Engage in Tibetan culture, visit monasteries, and take part in meditation sessions.
  • Spiti Valley: A hidden gem with stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries like Key Monastery, and a culture blending Indian and Tibetan traditions. Spiti Valley offers solitude compared to Ladakh.
2

West India

Desert and Coastal Life

  • Kutch, Gujarat: Experience the Great Rann of Kutch, a salt marsh in the Thar Desert. Visit artisan villages for unique handicrafts.
  • Gokarna, Karnataka: A quieter alternative to Goa, with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Ideal for yoga, meditation, and the coastal vibe.
  • Hampi, Karnataka: While gaining popularity, Hampi's ancient ruins allow exploration away from crowds. Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
3

South India

Nature and Heritage

  • Wayanad, Kerala: Lush landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and ancient petroglyphs in the Edakkal Caves offer a mix of nature and history.
  • Chettinad, Tamil Nadu: Known for its culinary heritage and stunning Chettinad mansions. Explore markets and try a cooking class.
  • Pondicherry: A French colonial settlement with a unique Franco-Tamil culture. Visit Auroville, an experimental township focused on unity and sustainability.
4

East & Northeast India

Unexplored Beauty

  • Shillong & Cherrapunji, Meghalaya: Discover the root bridges, live amidst clouds, and explore caves in one of the wettest places on Earth.
  • Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: Home to the Tawang Monastery and stunning mountain landscapes. The region's culture reflects Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. Explore its unique ecosystem on a boat safari.

Essential Travel Tips

Transportation

Domestic flights connect cities, but trains or buses offer scenic views. For remote areas, hire a car with a driver.

Accommodation

Stay in homestays, heritage hotels, and eco-lodges for authentic experiences and to support local communities.

Culinary Exploration

Try local specialties in each region, such as Coorgi pork, seafood in Gokarna, Tibetan dishes in Spiti Valley, and Khasi food in Meghalaya.

Seasonal Considerations

The best time to visit most places is from October to March for cooler weather. Spiti Valley is best visited from June to September.

Taj Mahal in sunrise light, Agra, India

Travel Budget for India

Incredible diversity from palaces to Himalayas

Budget Travel

Accommodation

Budget accommodations such as hostels and budget hotels can range from €5 to €15 per night.

Meals

Eating at local eateries, street food, or inexpensive restaurants can cost between €2 to €5 per meal.

Transportation

Local public transportation and occasional short-distance train or bus rides can total around €3 to €7 per day.

Activities

Free or low-cost attractions, like temples and markets, with minimal entry fees, might add up to €1 to €5.

Total Daily Cost: €11 - €32

Mid-Range Travel

Accommodation

Mid-range hotels or guesthouses can range from €20 to €50 per night.

Meals

Dining at mid-range restaurants or enjoying a wider variety of dishes can cost between €5 to €15 per meal.

Transportation

Renting a car with a driver for day trips or longer intercity train rides can total around €10 to €30 per day.

Activities

Entry fees for more popular attractions, guided tours, and occasional special experiences might add up to €5 to €20.

Total Daily Cost: €40 - €115

Luxury Travel

Accommodation

Luxury hotels or resorts can start from €100 and can go upwards of €300 or more per night.

Meals

Fine dining experiences or meals at high-end restaurants can cost between €20 to €60 per meal.

Transportation

Private drivers, luxury trains, or internal flights for quicker travel between cities can total around €30 to €100 per day.

Activities

Private tours, spa treatments, and exclusive experiences like private boat rides or cultural performances might add up to €20 to €100.

Total Daily Cost: €170 - €560+

Planning Tips for India

These estimates provide a general guideline for planning your budget. India's diversity means you can tailor your travel experience extensively, from exploring the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene landscapes of the Himalayas. It's also wise to factor in additional costs such as visa fees, travel insurance, and any shopping or souvenirs. Prices in tourist hotspots like Goa, Rajasthan, and Kerala may be higher, especially during peak season.