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India

Destination Guide India

India, a vast South Asian country, is as varied as it is vast, blending a multitude of cultures, languages, and landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-soaked beaches of the tropical south, India offers a tapeistry of vivid experiences and attractions.

Highlights & Must-See Attractions

North India

  • Delhi: The capital city, where ancient history meets urban hustle. Key sights include the majestic Red Fort, the historic India Gate, and the bustling Chandni Chowk market.
  • Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a monument to love built by Emperor Shah Jahan.
  • Varanasi: One of the world’s oldest cities, located on the banks of the Ganges River, where spiritual ceremonies and rituals can be observed.

Rajasthan

  • Jaipur: Known as the ‘Pink City’, famous for its royal palaces and vibrant bazaars.
  • Udaipur: The ‘City of Lakes’, renowned for its beautiful lakes and royal residences.
  • Jodhpur: The ‘Blue City’, known for its blue-painted houses and the mighty Mehrangarh Fort.

South India

  • Kerala: Known for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, and lush landscapes (See our dedicated Destination guide and sample itinerary)
  • Tamil Nadu: Home to ancient Dravidian temples and classical music and dance traditions.
  • Goa: Renowned for its beautiful beaches, Portuguese heritage, and vibrant nightlife.

Northeast India

  • Assam: Famous for its tea gardens and the Kaziranga National Park, home to the rare one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Sikkim: Offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

Jammu and Kashmir

  • Srinagar: Known for its stunning Dal Lake and traditional houseboats.
  • Leh-Ladakh: Offers stark landscapes and Buddhist monasteries perched in dramatic locations.

Our lesser-known favourites

  • Chhattisgarh: Explore the ancient caves and tribal villages, largely untouched by mainstream tourism.
  • Meghalaya: Known for its living root bridges and pristine natural beauty.
  • Kannur, Kerala: Offers quiet, unspoiled beaches and a glimpse of Theyyam, traditional ritualistic performances.

Did you know?

India is widely acknowledged as the birthplace of chess, originally known as ‘Chaturanga’. This ancient game, dating back to the 6th century AD, was initially a strategic board game simulating a battlefield.

India is the largest producer of spices in the world, contributing to about 75% of the global spice market. Indian cuisine is famous for its aromatic and diverse spice use, which is integral to its rich culinary traditions.

The Indian film industry, Bollywood, is one of the largest centers of film production in the world.

Food and Cuisine

  • North India: Known for its rich curries, flatbreads like naan and roti, and dishes like butter chicken.
  • South India: Famous for its use of rice, lentils, and dosas (rice pancakes) as staple foods.
  • West India: Includes a variety of seafood dishes, and the use of coconut and rice is prominent.

Literature and cinema

Literature: India has a rich literary heritage with authors like Rabindranath Tagore, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Cinema: Beyond Bollywood, India’s regional cinemas like Tamil (Kollywood) and Telugu (Tollywood) also produce significant contributions to Indian cinema.

Practical Information

  • Best Season to Visit: The ideal time to visit India depends on the region: October to March is best for the north and southwest during the dry, cool winter months. However, the monsoon season offers lush, beautiful landscapes and fewer tourists, providing a unique experience.
  • Temperature: Varies greatly from the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to the tropical warmth of southern beaches.
  • Visa Requirements: Most visitors will need to apply for an e-Visa in advance. Check the latest requirements based on your country of origin and make sure you use the official government website.

Getting ready for departure

  • Local Currency: Indian Rupee (INR).
  • Culture & Dress Code: India is diverse but conservative; modest dress is advised, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
  • Language: Hindi and English are the most widely spoken languages, among many others.
  • Electronics: India uses types C, D, and M plugs, 230 V.
  • Local emergency numbers: Police: 100; Ambulance: 102.

Before traveling to India, make sure to consult our Ultimate Packing List to prepare for a journey that spans the gamut from urban exploration to adventures in the wild. Handicrafts, spices, and textiles are fantastic souvenirs to bring back a piece of India’s colorful mosaic.