Ultimate Travel Guide to India: Tips, Itinerary & Things to Do
Planning a trip to India? Explore Delhi, Jaipur, Goa & more with our ultimate travel guide, safety tips, and top attractions.
India is one of the most incredible, but also most overwhelming places I have ever traveled to. I feel like that everyone should visit this massive country at least once in their lives. I traveled to India in March of 2017, on a group tour run by Contiki. I was able to visit the cities of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai, and Goa, and visit the Taj Mahal. I was also lucky enough to visit Ranthambore National Park to try and see tigers in the wild (I was sadly unsuccessful). Traveling to India is a bucket list for many travelers and tourists, and with good reason. This intense and wonderful country is a learning curve for any traveler, and a unique experience for everyone.
Quick Travel Guide to India
Hello in Hindi - 'namaste'
Power voltage: 220-240 V; Plugs C & D
Currency: Indian Rupee – approximately 60 rupees to 1 USD
ATMs: Widely available in cities, but cash shortages may occur during currency changes/crisis (research before you go)
Tipping: expected, locally known as backsheesh
Visa: Tourist E-Visa for most nationalities (always check your requirements)
Safety ranking (Global Peace Index): 115 out of 163 countries
Women Peace and Security Index: 131 out of 181 (0.607 of 1)
Climate: variety in regions, due to the vast size of India. Usually hot and tropical, except for regions to the North. Monsoons last from July to September
Best Time of Year for Travel: October–March for cooler temperatures and dry weather. Northern hill stations are ideal in spring and fall.
Dress Code & Cultural Notes: Modest dress is recommended, especially for owmen. Cover shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites. Use the right hand when eating or giving items.
Solo Travel Tips: India is rewarding but intense for solo travelers. Female travelers should dress conservatively and stay aware of surroundings. Guided tours help navigate safely.
Getting Around India: Trains are best for long distances. City travel: rickshaws, taxis, ride-hailing apps. Domestic flights save time on long routes.
Things That Surprise Travelers: India’s energy, colors, and friendliness. It can feel overwhelming, but the culture and landscapes are unforgettable.
India Travel Tips
Only drink bottled water. Don't brush your teeth with tap water either, use bottled water. This helps avoid getting sick, particularly for weaker immune systems. Make sure you bottle cap has not been tampered with before you buy water, especially from the streets.
Confirm a price before getting into a rickshaw. Stick to the price you agreed upon, and don't accept any other offers of tourist or sight seeing.
If you are a light sleeper, bring ear plugs. India is noisy. At all times of the day and night!
Top things to do and see in India
Visit the Taj Mahal - you cannot go to India and not see this world wonder!
Go in search of Tigers in India - Ranthambore National Park is a great place to do this
Experience Bollywood in Mumbai and explore one of India's largest cities
Hike up the mountains and view the incredible Amer Fort in Jaipur
Explore the Pink City of Jaipur
Wonder through the streets and palaces of Udaipur
Relax on the beach in Goa
Plan your Trip to India with these India Travel Guides:
