India itinerary (7, 10 & 14 days)

India can feel like several countries in one. In a single trip you might see marble mausoleums, desert fortresses, riverbanks lined with pilgrims, and palm-fringed waterways. The distances are big, the experiences are varied, and having a plan helps you make sense of it all. 
However you travel, the key is setting a pace that lets you take it in rather than rushing through. Rough Guides’ local experts can help shape the route and handle the logistics so the trip feels seamless.

Best India itinerary at a glance

Most people plan their trip around 7, 10, or 14 days. A week usually means focusing on the Golden Triangle. With ten days you can travel further east to Varanasi. Two weeks gives time to link the north with the south, or to mix in wildlife reserves alongside historic sites. 

• 7 days in India: Golden Triangle – This classic route links Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. It is straightforward for first-time visitors who want to see the Taj Mahal, the Mughal capital of Agra, and Jaipur’s palaces and bazaars at an easy pace.
• 10 days in India: Golden Triangle and Varanasi – Adds the holy city of Varanasi to the route. A sunrise boat ride on the Ganges and evening ceremonies give a sense of the city’s spiritual life alongside its history.
• 14 days in India: Rajasthan and Kerala – Combines Rajasthan’s forts, palaces, and desert towns in the north with Kerala’s backwaters, tea plantations, and coastal towns in the south. It shows two very different sides of India in one trip.
• 14 days in India: Wildlife and monuments – Connects national parks such as Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Ranthambore with visits to Agra and Delhi. It works well if you want to spend time on safari and still see some of India’s most famous landmarks.
   

7 days in Golden Triangle itinerary

A week on the Golden Triangle is a straightforward way to see India’s most well-known cities. This India itinerary connects Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, giving you time in each without rushing. You’ll see major monuments, explore local traditions, and get a clear sense of India’s architectural history.

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport and transfer to your hotel in either New Delhi or Old Delhi. Keep the first day light. You’ll want to rest from the flight, then take a short walk in your neighborhood to get a sense of the city. Grab a snack from a street vendor or browse a local market, then sit down for a dinner of North Indian dishes at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 2: Delhi sightseeing

Spend the day exploring both sides of Delhi. Start at Qutub Minar, a 12th-century tower from the city’s earliest rulers, before continuing to Humayun’s Tomb, the Mughal mausoleum that inspired the Taj Mahal.

After, you can stop at Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, where a community kitchen feeds thousands daily, and the Lotus Temple, open to all visitors. Akshardham Temple highlights modern Hindu craftsmanship, while India Gate commemorates Indian soldiers from World War I. End the day with a tuk-tuk ride through Chandni Chowk, where spice stalls, silver shops, and old havelis line the lanes.

Insider tip: Remove shoes when entering religious sites, and cover your head if asked. Most places provide coverings at the entrance.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra

Travel time: about 4 hours by road

On day 3 of this 7 day India itinerary, you’ll head to Agra via the Yamuna Expressway, which cuts across farmland and small villages. The Gatimaan Express train is a faster option, reaching Agra in about two hours. If you take the road, you will see mustard, sugarcane, and wheat fields along the way.

On arrival, check in at your hotel before heading to Mehtab Bagh in the afternoon. This Mughal garden across the Yamuna River gives you a clear view of the Taj Mahal. In the evening, wander through Agra’s markets to see artisans practicing the craft of marble inlay, a tradition that dates back to the Taj itself. Later, sit down for Mughlai food at a local restaurant, trying rich curries, kebabs, or biryani.

Day 4: Agra sightseeing

Begin early at the Taj Mahal to see the marble shift colors in the morning light before the crowds arrive. Continue to Agra Fort, once the Mughal capital, where palaces and pavilions overlook the river and Taj beyond. After lunch, visit Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, known as the Baby Taj for its delicate marble work. Later, browse Agra’s markets for handicrafts like textiles and carvings.

Day 5: Agra to Jaipur

Travel time: 5–6 hours by road

On the way to Jaipur, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s planned city later abandoned for lack of water. The courtyards, palaces, and Buland Darwaza gate remain impressive, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti still attracts pilgrims. From here, farmland gradually gives way to drier plains as you approach Jaipur. In the evening, wander the bazaars near Hawa Mahal and Johari Bazaar, then try Rajasthani classics like dal baati churma or laal maas for dinner.
 

Day 6: Jaipur sightseeing

Start at Amer Fort, perched above Maota Lake. Walk or take a jeep to the entrance, then explore the Sheesh Mahal, or Hall of Mirrors. Back in the city, pause at Hawa Mahal with its honeycomb of windows, then tour the City Palace, where the royal family still resides. Nearby, Jantar Mantar showcases 18th-century astronomical instruments that continue to track celestial movements. In the afternoon, visit artisan workshops and end at Jal Mahal, a palace rising from Man Sagar Lake.

Day 7: Departure (Jaipur to Delhi)

Travel time: 5–6 hours by road or 4.5 hours by train

On your final day, return to Delhi either by car or on the Shatabdi Express train, which includes meal service. A car allows for flexibility if you want to pause for last-minute shopping or a brief stop.

If you have free time in Jaipur in the morning, you can revisit the bazaars before leaving. Once in Delhi, head straight to the airport for your onward flight. Plan to arrive early, as security can be slow.
 

10 days in India itinerary

A 10-day itinerary through India’s major cities gives you a balanced introduction to the country. This route takes you from Delhi’s bustling bazaars to Varanasi’s riverside rituals, with time in Jaipur and Agra along the way. The pace leaves room to experience daily life while still covering the key landmarks.

Day 1: Delhi

Arrive in Delhi, where historic ruins and modern neighborhoods sit side by side. After landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport, make your way into the city and check in at your hotel. Most travelers keep the first evening simple with maybe a walk around a nearby market or a relaxed dinner close by. It’s a good way to ease into the rhythm of travel in India.

Day 2: Delhi sightseeing

Spend the day exploring both halves of Delhi. In New Delhi, visit Qutub Minar, a 12th-century minaret, then continue to Humayun’s Tomb, an early Mughal design that shaped the Taj Mahal. At Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, you can see the langar, a community kitchen where thousands are fed daily.

Pause at the Lotus Temple, known for its quiet gardens and striking architecture, before passing India Gate. Later, switch gears in Old Delhi: ride a tuk-tuk through Chandni Chowk’s crowded lanes and absorb the energy of the old city.
 

Day 3: Delhi to Jaipur

Travel time: 5–6 hours by road

The drive to Jaipur along National Highway 48 passes through parts of Rajasthan’s countryside. Hiring a driver is the most convenient way to travel, and it allows for meal stops at roadside dhabas. Comfortable buses run between the cities as well, while trains usually require connections.

On arrival in Jaipur you’ll notice the pink-painted architecture of the old quarter. In the evening, head to Choki Dhani on the city’s outskirts. It recreates a traditional Rajasthani village with mud-style huts, folk dance, music, crafts, and a thali dinner served on site.

Insider tip: Arrive early enough to see the cultural performances before dinner begins.

Day 4: Jaipur

Jaipur’s palaces and forts reflect its royal past. Begin at Amer Fort, overlooking Maota Lake, with mirrored halls and sweeping views of the Aravalli Hills. Back in the city, see Hawa Mahal, the honeycombed palace where royal women once watched parades, and explore the City Palace, which still houses the royal family alongside museums of textiles and weaponry.
 

Day 5: Jaipur

Start with Jantar Mantar, the 18th-century astronomical park where giant instruments still measure the movements of the sun and stars. A guide helps make sense of the science behind it. Later, stop at Jal Mahal, a palace that appears to float in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. In the afternoon, visit local workshops where artisans demonstrate weaving, rug making, and gemstone cutting. This is a fantastic chance to see crafts the region is known for.

Insider tip: Hire a guide at Jantar Mantar to better understand how the instruments work.

Day 6: Jaipur to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri

Travel time: 5–6 hours including Fatehpur Sikri visit

Break up the drive to Agra with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, once the Mughal capital. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 1500s, it was abandoned within two decades due to lack of water, but much of the city remains intact. 

Walk through courtyards and palaces like the Diwan-i-Khas is known for its carved central pillar, while the Panch Mahal rises in five layers that get smaller toward the top. The tomb of Salim Chishti is striking with its marble latticework. The red sandstone throughout reflects Akbar’s vision of grandeur and religious openness.
 

Day 7: Agra

Start early at the Taj Mahal, when the light is softer and the crowds smaller. Afterward, explore Agra Fort, the seat of Mughal power, with palaces, halls, and views back toward the Taj.

Later, visit the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula, sometimes called the Baby Taj, where the marble latticework and gardens influenced the Taj Mahal’s design. Its smaller scale lets you take in the details more easily.

Day 8: Agra to Varanasi

Travel time: 12–14 hours by overnight train or 1.5 hours by flight

Reaching Varanasi can be done by overnight train or a quick flight via Delhi. Trains like the Marudhar Express give you countryside views and a sleeper compartment, while flying is faster.

Once in Varanasi, visit Sarnath, where the Buddha gave his first sermon. The Dhamek Stupa still marks the site, and the museum nearby holds early Buddhist sculptures. In the evening, join the crowds at Dashashwamedh Ghat for the Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals with fire, bells, and chanting on the riverfront.
 

Day 9: Varanasi to Delhi

Travel time: 1.5 hours by flight or 12 hours by train

Before leaving, take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges. From the water you’ll see people bathing, praying, and performing rituals along the ghats. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and walk past Manikarnika Ghat, where cremation ceremonies take place. It’s one of the most powerful parts of the city, tied closely to Hindu beliefs about life and rebirth. Later, return to Delhi by flight or overnight train.

Insider tip: Be mindful of photography rules at temples and cremation areas, and always ask before taking pictures.

Day 10: Delhi departure

Spend your last morning in Delhi however you like. You might return to a neighborhood you missed earlier or do some shopping. Khan Market has modern boutiques and cafés, while Connaught Place mixes handicraft shops with colonial architecture. Leave plenty of time to reach the airport, as security and immigration can take longer than expected.

14 days in India itinerary

This two-week India itinerary moves from Kerala’s waterways and spice hills to Rajasthan’s palaces and monuments. The pacing gives you time to see the major landmarks and still slow down when it matters.

Day 1: Cochin

Begin in Cochin, a port shaped by centuries of trade. In Fort Kochi, narrow lanes wind between cafés, galleries, and warehouses turned into shops.

St. Francis CSI Church, dating back to 1503, is known as the oldest European church in India. Take a tuk-tuk through neighborhoods where drivers know the shortcuts, stopping at Dhobi Khana, the open-air laundry still run by families who have worked there for generations. The Mattancherry Palace shows murals from Hindu epics, and the Jewish Synagogue nearby reflects Cochin’s layered history. In the evening, watch a Kathakali performance where elaborate makeup and costume transform dancers into mythological figures.

Insider tip:  Buy Kathakali tickets earlier in the day and arrive about half an hour before the show to see the makeup preparation.

Day 2: Cochin to Munnar

Travel time: 4 hours

Leave the coast and climb into the Western Ghats, passing spice gardens and cardamom farms on the way. Munnar’s cooler climate and rolling tea hills are a sharp contrast to the lowlands.

A guided plantation walk, such as the Sevenmalai Trek, leads through fields of cardamom and tea with wide views across the slopes. At the Tata Tea Museum, historic equipment and displays show how the region became central to India’s tea industry.
 

Day 3: Munnar to Kumarakom

Travel time: 4.5 hours

The road descends past rubber plantations and villages before reaching the backwaters near Kumarakom. The bird sanctuary here is home to over 180 species, best seen in the late afternoon when flocks settle into the mangroves.

Walkways lead through reed beds and along Vembanad Lake, where canoes and houseboats glide past. A local guide can help identify birds and calls that are easy to miss.

Day 4: Kumarakom wellness day

Pause here for a slower day. Try an Ayurvedic massage or herbal oil treatment, often paired with meditation or breathing exercises. In nearby villages, craftspeople work with coir and coconut husks, while fishermen on the lake use traditional nets. Taking time to rest here helps balance the pace of the trip.

Insider tip: Schedule treatments for late morning, avoid heavy meals beforehand, and keep water with you.

Day 5: Kumarakom to Alleppey

Travel time: 1 hour

A short drive takes you to Alleppey, where you board a kettuvallam houseboat made of wood and coir rope. As the boat drifts along canals lined with coconut groves and rice fields, you’ll see farmers, fishermen, and schoolchildren along the banks. Meals are cooked onboard, often featuring freshly caught fish, while the passing scenery sets the rhythm of the day.

Day 6: Alleppey to Udaipur

Travel time: 6 hours including layover

Return to Cochin for your flight to Udaipur via Mumbai. The contrast is immediate: Kerala’s waterways give way to Rajasthan’s desert terrain and lakeside palaces.
 

Day 7: Udaipur

Udaipur is shaped by its lakes and royal legacy. The City Palace Museum is the highlight, with mirrored halls, frescoes, and artifacts from the Mewar dynasty. Sahelion-ki-Bari, a garden built for royal women, has fountains and marble pavilions that provide shaded corners.

Jagdish Temple dominates the old city with carvings that depict Hindu myths. End the day with a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, when palaces are reflected in the water. Nearby markets sell textiles, jewelry, and other crafts tied to Rajasthan’s traditions.

Insider tip: Buy City Palace tickets online to save time. A photography pass costs extra but grants access to areas normally closed to visitors.

Day 8: Udaipur

Spend the morning in a cooking class, learning dishes such as dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi while hearing about the role of spices in desert cooking.

After enjoying the meal you’ve prepared, visit Bagore ki Haveli in the evening, where folk dance, music, and puppetry bring Rajasthani culture into an intimate courtyard setting.

Insider tip:  Ask your cooking instructor about spice markets. Many know suppliers who sell the best spices which make for great souvenirs. 
 

Day 9: Udaipur to Jaipur

Travel time: 1.5 hours by flight

Fly to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital, where the old city is painted in terracotta pink. Explore Johari Bazaar, known for gemstones and Kundan jewelry, or Bapu Bazaar, crowded with textiles and leather goods.

In workshops around the city, artisans demonstrate block printing, pottery, and stone cutting. For a quick snack, try a pyaaz kachori or a lassi from a street stall.

Day 10: Jaipur to Ranthambore

Spend the morning at Jaipur’s landmarks. Amber Fort overlooks Maota Lake with mirrored halls and marble courtyards. The City Palace houses royal artifacts, while Hawa Mahal’s lattice windows once allowed royal women to watch street life unseen.

Jantar Mantar’s 18th-century astronomical instruments still track the stars with surprising accuracy. In the afternoon, drive about 3.5 hours to Ranthambore National Park, passing villages and farmland along the way.

Insider tip: Visit Jantar Mantar with a guide, as their explanations make the instruments easier to grasp.
 

Day 11: Ranthambore wildlife safari

Begin with a morning safari, when tigers and other wildlife are most active. Alongside tigers, the park is home to leopards, deer, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species.

Guides track footprints and listen for calls to locate animals while explaining their behavior. Afternoon safaris often explore a different zone of the park, offering a varied view of the landscape. Ranthambore Fort, a 10th-century stronghold overlooking the forest, adds a layer of history to the visit.

Insider tip:  Book more than one safari in advance, each zone has its own terrain and wildlife sightings.

Day 12: Ranthambore to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri

Travel time: 5 hours

Drive toward Agra with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s short-lived capital in the 1500s. Despite being abandoned for lack of water, its palaces, mosques, and courtyards remain remarkably preserved. Highlights include the Buland Darwaza gate, Jodha Bai’s palace, and the five-tiered Panch Mahal. Guides here bring the brief history of the city to life. Continue on to Agra afterward.

Day 13: Agra to Delhi

Start early at the Taj Mahal to see the marble glowing in the morning light before the crowds arrive. Then explore Agra Fort, once the Mughal capital, where palaces and gardens remain inside the red sandstone walls.

From the fort, you’ll have views across the Yamuna River toward the Taj. Stop at Itimad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, often called the Baby Taj, for its delicate marble latticework. In the afternoon, drive 3.5 hours back to Delhi, passing villages and farmland along the way.

Insider tip: Arrive at the Taj Mahal about half an hour before the gates open for the best light and thinner crowds.

Day 14: Delhi

Delhi tells its history through contrasting neighborhoods. In Old Delhi, Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India, and a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk reveals the city’s oldest market in action.

The Red Fort nearby was home to Mughal emperors for centuries. In New Delhi, see India Gate, Raj Ghat, and Humayun’s Tomb, an early Mughal design that influenced the Taj Mahal. For a quiet break, walk among the tombs and trees of Lodhi Gardens before heading to the airport.
 

Personalize your India travel itinerary

Planning a trip to India can feel overwhelming, and that is where Rough Guides’ local experts make a real difference.They build routes around what matters most to you, whether that is temples, food, wildlife, or a mix of regions. They also handle the practical details like bookings, transport, and guides, so you do not have to juggle it on the ground.

Our experts are locals and know the area inside and out. If trains are delayed or plans change, there is support available around the clock. It means you can focus on the experience itself, knowing the logistics are taken care of. If you’re curious about what a personalized trip might look like for you, reach out us. 

Other India travel itineraries

India is huge, and no single trip can cover it all. The good news is you don’t have to try. You can plan around what excites you most, whether that be wildlife, food, temples, or mountains, and keep the pace comfortable. Here are more ideas for your India itinerary.

Best India wildlife itinerary

This two-week route takes you through central India’s national parks with a focus on tiger habitats. You’ll travel between safari landscapes, historic sites, and areas where conservation work is making a difference.

• Days 1 & 2: Delhi
  • Start in Delhi with guided walks through the old city. Visit the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk market, then stop at Raj Ghat before taking an overnight train into central India.
• Days 3 to 6: Bandhavgarh tiger territory
  • Bandhavgarh National Park is known for having a high density of tigers, so several drives give you a good chance to see them. Leopards, sloth bears, and deer also live here, and between safaris you can walk through sal forests or visit nearby villages.
• Days 7 & 8: Kanha Conservation
  • Kanha is the stronghold of the barasingha, or swamp deer, which was saved from extinction here. Morning drives focus on predators such as tigers and wild dogs, while afternoons are ideal for birdwatching in the forest. The landscapes also inspired Kipling’s Jungle Book.
• Days 9 to 11: Agra
  • Travel north to Agra to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset. You’ll also explore the Red Fort and make a side trip to Fatehpur Sikri, the short-lived Mughal capital with well-preserved courtyards and palaces.
• Days 12 to 14: Ranthambore
  • End in Ranthambore National Park, where ruins stand inside the reserve. Safari drives and a climb to the hilltop fort round out the trip before returning to Delhi for your last night.
     

Best Rajasthan itinerary

This two-week Rajasthan itinerary takes you through the main cities, smaller towns, and desert communities, starting in Delhi and finishing in Udaipur. Along the way, you’ll stay in heritage properties, visit temples, and get a feel for everyday life across the region.

• Days 1 & 2: Delhi
  • In Old Delhi, the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk throw you straight into narrow lanes and busy markets. New Delhi feels completely different, with India Gate, the Presidential Palace, and the UNESCO-listed Qutb Minar showing its colonial and historic layers.
• Days 3 & 4: Agra
  • The Taj Mahal is worth seeing more than once, especially at sunrise or from across the river at dusk. Agra Fort adds to the story with palaces, gardens, and red sandstone walls that still dominate the city.
• Days 5 & 6: Jaipur's pink city
  • Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal are Jaipur’s most striking landmarks, while the City Palace museum and Jantar Mantar show the city’s royal and scientific past. The bazaars are packed with textiles, jewelry, and crafts that make the city so well known.
• Days 7 & 8: Pushkar
  • Pushkar centers around its lake, one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimage sites, with the Brahma Temple at its heart. Evening aarti ceremonies bring devotion to the water’s edge, while the town’s markets and desert setting keep it grounded.
• Days 9 & 10: Desert life in Khimsar and Jodhpur
  • From Khimsar you can head into desert villages, meeting communities who still live by traditional practices. In Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort overlooks the blue-painted houses and gives sweeping views across the Thar Desert.
• Days 11 & 12: Deogarh
  • Deogarh slows the pace with vintage train rides through the hills and walks around small lakes. Staying in restored heritage houses makes a comfortable base for exploring nearby villages.
• Days 13 to 15: Udaipur
  • Udaipur’s lakes connect the city, best experienced with a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola. The City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Sahelion-ki-Bari gardens round out the trip before departure.

Best Kerala itinerary

Kerala’s southwestern coast brings together mountains, waterways, and long stretches of beach. During this India itinerary,you’ll walk tea estates, explore a wildlife reserve, spend nights on a traditional houseboat, try Ayurvedic treatments, and finish with time in Cochin.

• Days 1 to 3: Cochin Gateway to Munnar Hills
  • Start in Cochin before heading up to the hill station of Munnar, where the air is cooler and the hillsides are green with tea. You can hike through cardamom and coffee estates in Sevenmalai, take in hillside views, and visit the Tata Tea Museum to see how production works.
• Days 4 & 5: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Travel inland to Periyar National Park in the Western Ghats. Guided walks may bring you close to elephants or hornbills, and you’ll also have the chance to tour spice plantations and learn how pepper, cardamom, vanilla, and coffee are grown.
• Days 6 & 7: Kumarakom to Alleppey
  • Spend time in village communities before boarding a kettuvallam, Kerala’s traditional houseboat. Two days on the backwaters means gliding past canals and lagoons, watching life along the banks, and eating fresh meals prepared on board.
• Days 8 & 9: Marari Beach
  • Slow down at Marari Beach, where you can book an Ayurvedic massage or simply rest by the water. The coastline is lined with fishing villages, and evenings end with sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
• Days 10 & 11: Cochin
  • Return to Fort Kochi for Kerala’s cultural highlights. Visit India’s oldest European church, walk through Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, browse spice markets by tuk-tuk, and see a Kathakali dance performance before departure.
     

India travel itineraries FAQ

Here’s some of the most common questions we get from our readers when planning an India itinerary.

How many days are enough for India?

For a first trip, around two to two-and-a-half weeks (14–18 days) works well. That gives you time to see more than one region without feeling like you are rushing. You also get a chance to ease into the pace of daily life and the food, which can take some adjustment.

With that much time you could cover the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) and add on Kerala’s backwaters, Varanasi’s riverfront, or Rajasthan’s desert cities like Udaipur and Jodhpur. Each area feels different in food, culture, and architecture.

Travel in India is easier when you slow down. Delays happen, and the unplanned moments often turn into highlights, whether it is a parade in the street or a sunrise by the river.

If you only have a week, keep to one region such as the Golden Triangle, Kerala, or Rajasthan. A trip shorter than that does not leave much time to enjoy it.

What is the best time to visit India?

The most comfortable season is October through March when the weather is cooler and dry. November to February is the busiest time, with daytime temperatures in the north around 65–75°F (18–24°C). The south stays warmer year-round.

April to June can be very hot, with many areas above 105°F (40°C). Hill stations such as Shimla or Munnar stay much cooler at that time. From July to September, the monsoon brings heavy rain, green landscapes, and fewer visitors, though flooding and travel delays are common.

If you want to travel for a festival, Diwali is usually in October or November, Holi is in March, and Kerala’s Onam festival is in August or September. Hotels book up quickly during these times and prices rise. In December and January, fog in the north often delays flights and trains, so it helps to plan some buffer time.
 

How do you get around India?

Getting around India will depend on your trip.

Between cities

The rail network is huge and connects most destinations. You can take budget overnight sleepers or more comfortable air-conditioned trains. Flying is often quicker and reasonably priced with airlines like IndiGo or SpiceJet, but trains give you a stronger sense of the country and can save you a night of accommodation. Long-distance buses range from basic government services to comfortable air-conditioned coaches.

Within cities

Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common for short distances. Always ask for the meter or agree on the fare before the ride. Uber and Ola work in big cities, and metros in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata are clean and reliable. Local buses are cheap but harder to use without the language. At airports and railway stations, pre-paid taxi stands save you from bargaining.

Driving in India

Most visitors who want a car hire a driver, which usually costs about ₹2,500–4,000 ($30–50) per day. This avoids the stress of navigation and traffic. Driving yourself is possible with an international license, but traffic is unpredictable, cows have right of way, and constant honking is part of the flow. Road conditions vary from modern highways to rough stretches with potholes.

How does the Indian train reservation system work and what are the different classes?

Trains have several classes. AC First Class has private cabins. AC 2-Tier and AC 3-Tier are shared but air-conditioned. Sleeper Class is the cheapest long-distance option without AC and is very popular with locals.

You can book tickets on the IRCTC website or app, though it can be slow. Tatkal tickets go on sale one day before departure at higher prices and are good for last-minute travel. Waitlisted tickets often clear, and RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) ensures at least a seat or shared berth. Major stations have a Foreign Tourist Quota desk if you cannot find tickets online.

Trains are often delayed, so the “Where is My Train” app is useful. Bring toilet paper, sanitizer, and snacks, though the chai and samosas on board are worth trying.

How much does a trip to India cost?

India is generally affordable compared to many countries in Asia. Prices are higher than in Nepal but lower than in Thailand.

• Budget ($50–85 / ₹4,000–7,000 per day): Dorms or basic guesthouses, street food, and second-class trains.
• Mid-range ($85-180 / ₹7,000-15,000 per day): Comfortable guesthouses or heritage hotels, restaurant dining, air-conditioned trains, and taxis.
• Luxury ($180+ / ₹15,000+ per day): Palace hotels, five-star resorts, private drivers, and experiences like yoga sessions or cooking classes.

What are important cultural customs to be aware of?

You’ll notice pretty quickly that respect in India shows up in small daily gestures. Shoes come off before temples, homes, and sometimes even shops, so wear something you can slip in and out of easily. People use their right hand for eating, passing money, or giving things, and while no one is going to scold you if you forget, it’s worth trying to follow.

Clothing is another big one. You’ll get less unwanted attention if you dress modestly, especially women. In touristy areas people are used to all kinds of outfits, but once you leave the main cities it really helps to cover shoulders and knees.

You will see the famous head wobble everywhere. It usually means yes, but sometimes it just means “I hear you.” You get the hang of it once you have seen it a few times. Touching someone’s head or pointing your feet at people is frowned on, but these are easy to avoid.

Always ask before taking photos of people or religious sites.

What's the difference between government-approved and private tour operators?

Government-approved agencies are recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and meet certain safety and training standards. They are usually reliable but can be less flexible. Private agencies range from well-run boutique companies to unprofessional operators working informally.

Approval does not always mean better quality. Some private operators without government backing run excellent trips, while some approved ones are more average. Checking reviews online is more useful than relying on the official stamp.

Watch out for requests for full payment upfront, vague itineraries, or prices that look unrealistically low. Established private companies with several years of experience usually provide a good balance of reliability and creativity.
 

Will I have language barriers?

English is widely spoken in cities, hotels, and tourist areas, though accents vary. In smaller towns and rural areas, English is less common. Hindi works well in the north but is less useful in the south where local languages dominate.

Download Google Translate with offline packs for the areas you will visit. Tamil helps in Chennai, Bengali in Kolkata, Malayalam in Kerala, and so on. People are generally patient if you struggle, and many will step in to help.

Menus in tourist areas often have English, but at street stalls pointing is sometimes the easiest option.

Want a trip built around your interests? Rough Guides’ local travel experts handle it all: bookings, guides, transfers, and more. They’re available any time during your travels, so you can relax and enjoy. Learn more about our tailor made trips.