India

Things to Do in India

A guide to navigating India's diverse landscapes, historic monuments, and regional rail networks.

  • CapitalNew Delhi
  • CurrencyIndian Rupee (INR)
  • LanguageHindi, English
  • Time zoneUTC+05:30
  • Emergency112

Why visit India?

India is a vast peninsula bounded by the Himalayas in the north and the Indian Ocean in the south. Its sheer geographical scale yields an incredible diversity of landscapes, ranging from the arid Thar Desert to the tropical backwaters of Kerala. For travelers, navigating India requires a shift in tempo; it is a country where sensory stimulation is constant, and historic monuments from the Mughal, Rajput, and colonial eras stand side-by-side with rapidly modernizing tech hubs.

Organizing a trip to India often means choosing a specific region to explore rather than attempting to see the entire subcontinent in one go. The classic Golden Triangle route in the north introduces first-time visitors to the architectural wonders of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Meanwhile, South India offers a slower pace, characterized by ancient stone temples, spice plantations, and peaceful waterways. Whichever route you choose, understanding the local transport networks, particularly the extensive Indian Railways, is key to a smooth journey.

The Golden Triangle

Kerala's Backwaters

The Temples of Varanasi

The Forts of Rajasthan

The Western Ghats

Ancient Caves of Ajanta and Ellora

Popular regions

North India

North India

South India

South India

West India

West India

East and Northeast India

East and Northeast India

When to visit India

Based on average conditions in India.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature21°24°30°36°40°39°35°34°34°33°28°23°
Rain2d2d2d2d3d6d12d11d6d1d1d1d
CrowdsHighHighMedLowLowLowMedMedMedHighHighHigh
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to India

Recommended Duration

2 to 3 weeks

Best Time to Visit

October to March

First-Timer Route

The Golden Triangle + Udaipur

Daily Cost Expectation

Moderate

Getting around India

Indian Railways (Trains)

Auto-rickshaws and Cabs

Domestic Flights

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Budget

    $25 - $40 USD per day

  • Mid-range

    $60 - $120 USD per day

  • Luxury

    $250+ USD per day

Food & drinks

  • Thali (Platter of diverse regional dishes)₹150 - ₹400
  • Masala Dosa (Savory crepe with potato filling)₹80 - ₹150
  • Street Food (Samosas or Chaat)₹30 - ₹70
  • Butter Chicken with Naan₹350 - ₹600
  • Filter Coffee / Masala Chai₹15 - ₹50

Practical

  • Visa Requirements

  • Water and Hygiene

  • Dress Code

  • SIM Cards

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting India

How many days should I spend in India? +

For a first trip, spend 10 to 14 days focusing on a single region like the Golden Triangle and Rajasthan. To explore both the North and the South, you will need at least three to four weeks.

When is the best time to visit India? +

The best time is during the cool, dry winter season from October to March. Temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing, whereas the summer (April to June) is extremely hot, followed by the monsoon rains.

What is the classic route for first-time visitors? +

The Golden Triangle is the standard starter route. It begins in Delhi, moves to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, and ends in the historic city of Jaipur in Rajasthan.

Is India expensive to travel? +

India is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia. Street food, local transport, and budget guesthouses are exceptionally cheap, while mid-range boutique heritage hotels offer excellent value.

How do I get around India? +

Trains are ideal for long distances and offer a classic cultural experience. For shorter city hops, domestic flights are affordable and save significant travel time, while auto-rickshaws are perfect for short city commutes.

Can I drink the tap water in India? +

No, do not drink tap water in India. Always purchase sealed bottled water, use filtered water provided by reputable hotels, and avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it is made from purified.