India travel tips for first-timers: what to know

From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches in the south, there’s a world of difference packed into each of  India's 28 states. This is the kind of place that you will never fully explore in one trip. Whether this is your first visit or your fifth, here are our top India travel tips to help you make the most of your time.

When is the best time to visit India?

The best time to visit India is between October and March. This is when most parts of the country have pleasant temperatures and little rain, and it’s easier to get around.

It’s best to avoid the monsoon season (June-September) in most areas, though some people visit Kerala during this time to see the lush green landscape. If you’re planning to explore the Himalayas, the months from April to June are best for clearer views before the monsoon clouds arrive. For a more detailed look at the weather, see our guide to the best time to visit India.

Is India expensive?

India is generally affordable compared to many other countries, especially when compared to nearby neighbors like Thailand, Sri Lanka, or Nepal. With a little planning, you can travel in the country without spending too much. Looking at sample India itineraries can sometimes help visualize what a trip might look like, and what you'll need to budget for.

• Budget (₹1,500-3,000 / $18-36 per day): This budget gets you basic guesthouses, street food, and local transport. Hostels, meals from local roadside eateries (called dhabas), and using buses will stretch your budget even further.
• Mid-range (₹3,000-8,000 / $36-96 per day): This budget gives you more comfortable 3-star hotels, meals at good restaurants, and private transport between cities. Most travelers will fall into this range, balancing comfort and cost without going overboard.
• Luxury (₹8,000+ / $96+ per day): If you’re after a more luxurious experience, you can stay in 5-star hotels, enjoy fine dining, have a private driver, and take guided tours—all at prices lower than what you’d pay for similar experiences in Europe or North America.
   

Is India safe for travelers?

India’s generally safe, but it’s one of those places where you need to stay aware. Solo female travelers will want to dress modestly, especially in smaller towns or rural areas, and you should expect some staring if you're off the typical tourist trail. It’s best not to walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and when getting around, go with registered taxis or ride-hailing apps instead of random drivers. Additionally, tools like the Safetipin app can help assess the safety of specific areas based on factors like lighting and crowd presence

Like in any crowded place, petty theft can happen—keep your bag zipped and don’t flash your phone or cash around. Scams are common, especially around tourist hotspots (more on that below).

That said, plenty of people travel across India without problems. Locals are often quick to step in and help when something goes wrong.

India travel tip: The bigger safety risk in India tends to be road travel. Traffic is intense and accidents aren’t uncommon, so try to avoid overnight buses and book with reputable companies if you're doing long trips. 

Understanding India’s laws

For the most part, tourists don’t need to worry too much about legal stuff, but there are a Most laws in India are pretty straightforward for travelers, but there are a few things you should know going in. Religious sites often have dress codes—covered shoulders and legs are usually a safe bet—and behavior is expected to be respectful.
Some places have restrictions on what you can photograph, especially around airports, military sites, and certain temples. Pay attention to posted signs—security can be strict.

A few other things to know:

• Public displays of affection: Holding hands is fine, but kissing or getting too affectionate in public can lead to warnings or fines in more conservative areas.
• LGBTQ+ travelers: Same-sex relationships were decriminalized in 2018, but same-sex marriage isn’t legal, and public affection may draw attention—especially outside bigger cities.
• Alcohol: The drinking age varies by state—usually between 21 and 25. Some states don’t allow alcohol at all.
• Drones: If you want to bring a drone, you’ll need permission ahead of time from aviation authorities. Don’t fly anywhere near government buildings or airports.

Do you need a visa for India?

Most people do. Thankfully, India’s e-Visa system is pretty easy to use—you can apply online for tourist stays from 30 to 180 days, depending on where you’re from. It usually takes 3–5 business days to process, but don’t cut it close—apply at least a week before your trip.

Fees range from $25 to $80 USD depending on your nationality and length of stay. Just make sure you’re using the official site: indianvisaonline.gov.in. There are a lot of scammy third-party sites out there.

Staying longer

If you want to stay beyond the limits of a tourist visa, you’ll need a different type.

• Employment visa: You’ll need a job lined up with a company based in India.
• Business visa: You’ll need to show an ongoing business relationship in the country.
• Student visa: You’ll need proof you’ve been accepted to an Indian school or university.

Tourist visas can sometimes be extended, but you’ll have to go through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in a major city. Approval isn’t guaranteed, and the process can take time, so it’s better to plan ahead if you know you want to stay longer.

Cultural etiquette to know of before visiting India?

One thing you’ll probably notice right away is the head wobble—that side-to-side nod that’s hard to read at first. It can mean “yes,” “I hear you,” or “okay,” depending on how it’s used. It’s easy to misinterpret as disagreement, but in most cases, it’s a positive or neutral gesture. You’ll get used to it quickly.

When it comes to etiquette in India, small things matter. Take your shoes off when entering someone’s home or a temple—if you see shoes by the door or a rack outside, that’s your cue. Dressing modestly is expected, especially in temples or smaller towns. 

India travel tip: People don’t usually show physical affection in public, and handshakes aren’t always the norm, especially between men and women.

How to stay healthy while traveling in India

Staying healthy in India mostly comes down to being smart about food and water. You’ll also want a basic medical kit with things like rehydration salts, anti-diarrheal meds, and anything you normally take. Hand sanitizer is your best friend here—use it often, especially before you eat  (see our India travel health tips). 

Pharmacies and medical care

You’ll find excellent healthcare in India’s major cities, with private hospitals that rival Western standards and English-speaking doctors. Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are particularly well-equipped. Rural areas, though, might only have basic facilities. 

Pharmacies are easy to find just about everywhere, and you can get most medications over the counter for a fraction of the price you’d pay at home. 

Apollo and MedPlus are two reliable chains. For anything serious, you may need to get to a major city—or even fly out to somewhere like Singapore or Thailand. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is a smart move

Are there any vaccinations needed for India?

You don’t need any vaccines to enter India, but there are a few you might want to get before your trip, depending on where you’re going and how long you’ll be there.

Commonly recommended:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus-diphtheria
• Japanese Encephalitis (if you’ll be in rural areas during monsoon season)
• Rabies (for longer trips or time spent around animals)
• Malaria prevention (depends on the region—check with a doctor)

Food and water safety

“Delhi belly” is real, but it’s usually avoidable with a little care. The general rule is: peel it, boil it, cook it, or skip it. Street food isn’t off-limits, just be selective—look for stalls where the food is cooked right in front of you and there’s a steady line of customers. 

Avoid pre-cut fruit, raw vegetables, and salads. Keep bottled water with you or use a purifier, and always double-check bottle seals. Drinks like chai and lassi are usually fine since they’re freshly made and served hot or cold from clean setups. When picking a place to eat, somewhere busy with locals is usually a good sign. 

And if your gut tells you a place isn’t clean, trust it. If you do get sick, it often passes in a day or two with rest and hydration.
 

Is India a good destination for families?

Yes, India with kids can be great—if you plan it right. Kids tend to get a lot of attention from locals, which can lead to fun interactions and make it easier to connect with people.

There’s a lot to do together—safaris to look for tigers or elephants, cooking classes, learning traditional crafts like block printing, or even trying a Bollywood dance class. Just keep in mind that the noise, crowds, and general sensory overload can be a bit much, especially for younger kids. And travel distances between places are often long, so it’s usually better to stick to one region and take your time.

Where to stay and getting around

Some of the easier places to travel with kids are Goa (for beach time), Kerala (for slow-paced houseboat trips), Rajasthan (for old forts and palaces), and the national parks if you’re interested in wildlife.

Travel takes some planning. Flights are the fastest way to get between regions, and hiring a car with a driver is a common and relatively affordable way to get around more locally. It makes travel a lot smoother, especially with kids. Train rides can also be memorable—some of the mountain routes use old-fashioned toy trains that are slow but scenic and fun.

Inside cities, pre-booked taxis or ride apps are the way to go. Public transport isn’t always ideal with little kids, especially if you’re juggling bags or trying to keep everyone together. Delays happen, so snacks, water, and a few distractions go a long way.

Essentials for parents

A little prep can save you a lot of stress. Bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wipes—they’re not always available in public bathrooms. A small medical kit is a good idea too: kids' meds, rehydration salts, something for motion sickness, and any antibiotics or prescriptions you might need.

Food-wise, stick to freshly cooked meals at places that look clean and busy. Only drink bottled water, even for brushing teeth.

The sun and heat can be intense, so pack sunscreen, bug spray, lightweight long-sleeved clothes, and hats. If you’re visiting during monsoon season, quick-dry clothes and waterproof shoes are your best bet.

And finally, one of the best tips for traveling in India with kids is to bring a few comfort items from home—familiar snacks, a favorite toy, or something small from their routine—can help your kids settle in more easily. India can feel like a lot at first, but with a bit of preparation, it’s a trip that sticks with you.
 

What are the best places to visit in India?

India is home to 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 121 languages, and the largest spice market in the world. Its living traditions include dance forms that have been passed down for over 2,000 years, alongside groundbreaking mathematics that introduced the concept of zero. Here's a list of a few key places, but for a better look see our guide to the best places to visit in India.

Cities

India is home to more iconic cities than we could ever possibly hope to list here. Underground metro systems now weave through neighborhoods that are thousands of years old, while rooftop observatories, dating back to the 1700s, continue to track celestial movements with precision.

• Delhi (Dilli): Delhi feels like a few cities in one. In Old Delhi, you’ll wind through narrow lanes past Mughal forts, spice stalls, and crowded markets. Head into New Delhi and it’s quieter, with colonial buildings and wider roads. In the evening, Hauz Khas Village is a nice spot for food, drinks, and a walk by the ruins.
• Mumbai (Bombay): Mumbai never really slows down. It's a mix of busy streets, colonial landmarks, and beachside vendors frying snacks. Early mornings are worth it—Crawford Market and Sassoon Docks are best early.
• Varanasi (Kashi): Varanasi sits right on the Ganges, where people pray, bathe, and cremate their loved ones. The evening Aarti ceremony is moving—lots of fire, chanting, and people watching. The alleys are confusing but full of temples and traditional silk workshops if you’re curious about local craft. 
   

Beaches and islands

With 4,600 miles (7,500 kilometers) of coastline to explore, good beaches in India aren't hard to come by. Here is where you'll find some of the best beaches in India.

• Goa: Goa’s coastline changes depending on where you are. Up north, it’s busier—beach shacks, cafés, and markets around places like Anjuna and Baga. Down south, Palolem and Agonda are quieter and better for slow walks and laid-back evenings. See our guide to the best beaches in Goa.
• Andaman Islands: It takes a little more effort to get to the Andamans, but once you’re there, it’s calm and tropical. Havelock Island is popular for a reason—good beaches, easy swimming. Neil Island is smaller and slower-paced. Snorkeling and diving are solid around both.
• Lakshadweep: Lakshadweep is harder to reach and usually less crowded. You’ll need a permit, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for quiet beaches and clean water. Bangaram and Kadmat are good picks for swimming and diving. The culture here is shaped by local Muslim communities and feels different from the mainland.

Nature and adventure

India sits on three tectonic plates, which makes for dramatic landscapes like Spiti Valley, a cold desert where fossilized seabeds are found at 15,000 feet (4,572 meters) above sea level. The living root bridges of Meghalaya, grown over generations from trained tree roots, span rainforest rivers. In Karnataka, the Krishna River mysteriously disappears underground, only to reappear miles away.

• Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand): If you’re hoping to spot wildlife, this park is one of the better-known places for tigers. The land is forest to riverbanks, and you’ll likely see elephants, deer, and lots of birds. April to June usually gives you the best chances.
• Valley of Flowers National Park (Uttarakhand): This high-altitude valley lights up with wildflowers in July and August. The hike from Ghangaria isn’t long, and you’re surrounded by mountain views most of the way. It’s also close to Hemkund Sahib if you want to keep trekking.
• Kaziranga National Park (Assam): Kaziranga has a strong chance of rhino sightings—most of the world’s one-horned rhinos live here. It’s also home to water buffalo, deer, and sometimes tigers. Each part of the park feels different. The Western Range is a good place to start.
• Ladakh (Jammu & Kashmir): Ladakh is dry, remote, and full of dramatic mountain views. You’ll see prayer flags, old monasteries, and high-altitude lakes. The culture leans toward Tibetan Buddhism.
   

Historic and religious sites

India is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring architectural feats. The country's historic and religious sites reflect over 5,000 years of continuous civilization, and visiting them is one of the best things to do in India.

• Taj Mahal (Agra): You’ve probably seen a million photos of the Taj, but seeing it in person is different. The scale, the symmetry, the changing light throughout the day—it’s all part of what makes it special. It gets busy, but if you go at sunrise, it’s a bit quieter and the light is softer. A good move is to head to Mehtab Bagh across the river in the evening—the view from there is great, and you won’t be packed in with a crowd.
• Khajuraho Temples (Madhya Pradesh): These temples are known for their carvings—some of them erotic, most of them just incredibly detailed. It’s a full look at daily life, spirituality, and mythology from centuries ago. The Western Group is where the most intricate temples are, like Kandariya Mahadeva. If you’re around in February, the dance festival is worth catching.
• Golden Temple (Amritsar): There’s something peaceful about the Golden Temple, even when it’s busy. Anyone can visit, and meals are shared at the langar, the community kitchen. At night, the temple reflects in the water, and things quiet down a bit.
• Ajanta and Ellora Caves (Maharashtra): These caves are full of carvings, paintings, and stone temples that have held up over time. Ajanta is mostly Buddhist; Ellora mixes Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist influences. If you go midday, there’s more natural light to see the details.
   

How long to spend in India?

If it’s your first time, try to give yourself a 10- to 14-day India itinerary. That’s usually enough time to explore one part of the country—like the north or the south—without feeling rushed. You’ll have space to actually enjoy a few places instead of just moving from one to the next.

A popular route in the north is the Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. In the south, Kerala’s a good option for nature, food, and temples. In both cases, three to four stops is plenty. Any more and you’ll end up spending a lot of your trip in transit.

What’s the best way to plan an India itinerary?

How to plan a trip to India? If you’re trying to put together your itinerary and feeling stuck, start with a rough list of things you’d really like to see or do. Don’t worry about building the perfect route right away—just pick a few top priorities and then look at how far apart they are. That’ll help you figure out what’s realistic. You can fill in the gaps as you go. 

Consider a region to focus on

Different parts of India feel totally different, so where you go makes a big difference. Northern India has historic forts and big cities. The south is more laid-back, with coastal towns, hills, and temples. In the west you’ll find desert towns and a mix of architecture, and in the east, smaller cities and more rural areas. Sticking to one region tends to be more rewarding than trying to cross the whole country in one go.

Factor in travel time

Getting around India takes a bit of planning. Flights are the fastest way to get between cities, and prices are usually good if you book early. Trains take longer but are a big part of the experience—you’ll see more of the landscape and meet people along the way.

If you’re staying within one area, hiring a car and driver can make things a lot easier. It’s affordable and gives you more control over your schedule.  

India travel tip: If you want to see as many areas as possible, it might be worth contacting an India travel expert.

Can I drive in India?

You technically can, but most visitors don’t—and for good reason. Getting around India can be tricky; roads can be unpredictable, signage isn’t always in English, and traffic works on rules that aren’t written down anywhere. Add in left-side driving, and it gets stressful fast.

If you’re determined to try it, pick somewhere quieter like Kerala or Himachal Pradesh. Otherwise, hiring a driver makes more sense. You’ll still have the freedom to stop where you want, but without the stress of figuring out directions or dealing with chaotic roads.

Book essentials first

Try to book your international flight around three or four months in advance. Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are the main entry points, and airlines like Emirates, Qatar, and Etihad tend to have good routes. Air India flies direct from several major cities too. Inside the country, IndiGo and Vistara are generally reliable and have wide coverage.

If you can, plan to fly into one city and out of another. It’ll save you from having to backtrack. Shoulder seasons—like September to October or February to March—can also mean lower prices and fewer crowds.

Accommodation in India is easy to find once you know your route. Big cities have international chains, but in smaller places, you’ll come across heritage stays (like old havelis or palaces), guesthouses, and family-run guesthouses
 

How to slow travel in India

On of the best tips for traveling to India is that it makes the most sense when you take it slow. Instead of cramming a bunch of places into one trip, think about spending a few weeks in just one spot. 

Getting around by train works well for longer trips. India’s rail system is huge, and overnight sleeper trains are cheap and surprisingly social. You’ll meet people, share snacks, and wake up somewhere totally new. If you're sticking around for a while, you might look into volunteering with a local NGO or signing up for something hands-on—like a yoga course in Rishikesh, learning a regional cooking style, or taking a classical dance class in Kerala.

In the north, especially around the Himalayas, there are plenty of long-distance walking routes. They’re a great way to get into quieter, rural areas that you wouldn’t normally pass through. It’s slow, but it gives you space to really notice where you are. 

Local experiences

Tradition in India isn’t saved for special occasions—it’s just part of everyday life. If you stay in one place for a bit, you’ll naturally come across ways to join in.

In Rajasthan, for example, you can spend a few days in a village learning block printing. Families there still carve wooden blocks by hand and use natural dyes to make patterned textiles. Some villages around Jaipur and Jodhpur run workshops through social enterprises like Dhonk and Sambhali Trust, where you’ll actually make things alongside the people who’ve been doing it for generations.

In Kerala, you can sit in on a Kathakali performance—but the best part often happens before the show. Arrive early, and you can watch the performers apply their elaborate makeup while they explain the meaning behind their movements and characters. If you're near Thrissur, the Kerala Kalamandalam runs day programs where you can learn more about this and other classical arts in a school setting, not a tourist venue.

Varanasi is another place where slowing down helps. Join a local family for their early-morning rituals by the Ganges, or head out in the evening to light a diya as the sun goes down. Groups like Varanasi Walks connect visitors with people who are actually part of these traditions—not just putting on a show for tourists.  
 

How to handle money and payments in India

Money works a bit differently depending on where you are. In cities, digital payments are common—most shops, cafes, and even street stalls use UPI apps like Google Pay or PhonePe. But in rural areas, it's still mostly cash. It’s a good idea to keep both on hand.

ATMs are easy to find in cities and big towns, but they can be hit-or-miss in smaller places. If you're heading somewhere more remote, take out enough beforehand just in case. Larger hotels and restaurants usually take international cards, but local transport, small guesthouses, and markets will want cash.

India travel tip: Always carry small bills—₹10 to ₹100 is good. You’ll need them for snacks, rickshaws, tips, and anytime someone claims they don’t have change (which happens a lot).

What are the most common scams?

Scams in India tend to follow a pattern, especially in places with a lot of tourists. One to watch out for is fake “tourist information” centers. They often look legit—some even have signs—but they’re just trying to steer you toward expensive tours, drivers, or shops where they earn a commission. If you’re unsure, check the official tourism website or ask your embassy for a list of verified offices.

At big tourist sites, you might meet self-appointed “guides” who say the attraction is closed—for cleaning, for prayer, for renovations—and then suggest taking you somewhere else instead. Usually it’s a shop or showroom that pays them to bring in visitors. Most places aren’t actually closed, so double-check at the official entrance or ticket counter.

Markets are another spot to stay alert. You’ll hear a lot of claims about “real silk” or “pure pashmina,” but not all of it is authentic. One simple test: rub the fabric. Real silk gets warm with friction, while synthetics stay cool.

Keep your eyes out at temples as well. Some people will put a tikka on your forehead or tie a thread around your wrist and then ask for money. If that’s not something you want, just keep your hands to yourself and walk past them. If you do want a blessing or a guide, look for someone with a government-issued ID badge.
 

How to travel responsibly and ethically in India?

Traveling responsibly in India isn’t just about being polite—it’s about making choices that support local communities and don’t cause harm. One way to do that is by staying in places that are part of community-based tourism. In states like Kerala and Meghalaya, there are homestay networks where local families host visitors. Your money stays in the community and helps people directly.

Photography can be sensitive in some places. If you’re at a religious event or visiting tribal regions, always ask before taking someone’s picture. If they say no, just move on—don’t try to convince them.

You’ll likely come across children asking for money. It’s really hard to ignore, but giving cash directly often feeds into larger systems of exploitation. Instead, you can donate to groups like Salaam Baalak Trust or Butterflies, which work with children long-term—through education, shelter, and counseling.

When it comes to India wildlife, stick with tour operators that follow conservation rules. Keep your distance from animals, don’t touch or feed them, and report anything that feels off—especially if it involves elephants or other animals used for rides or photos.
 

What food should I try in India?

Food in India changes a lot depending on where you are.  Some food tips for traveling in India: the north leans into wheat, rich gravies, and Mughal-style cooking. Down south, it's mostly rice, coconut, and curry leaves. The west mixes coastal seafood with inland ingredients like millet and legumes, while the east leans into mustard oil and river fish. 

Each region has its own way of using spices, so flavors shift as you move around. Also, the idea of "curry" as one dish doesn’t really apply here—it’s more about different gravies and masalas. And if you’re vegetarian, you’ll have a lot to choose from—India does plant-based meals really well.

• Masala Dosa, Karnataka: This is a big, crispy rice-and-lentil crepe filled with spiced mashed potatoes. It’s usually served with coconut chutney and sambar, which is a tangy lentil soup. In Bangalore, places like MTR or Vidyarthi Bhavan make dosas that are a little darker and crispier than what you might find elsewhere.
• Hyderabadi Biryani, Telangana: This biryani stands out because the rice and meat are cooked together in a sealed pot.. Goat is the usual choice, but you’ll also find chicken or mutton versions. Paradise and Shadab in Hyderabad’s Old City are well-known spots for this.
• Pani Puri (Golgappa), Mumbai: You’ll find these everywhere, especially from street vendors. They’re hollow, crispy balls filled with spicy mashed potatoes or chickpeas, then dunked in cold tamarind-mint water. It’s a quick one-bite snack with crunch, spice, tang, and sweetness all at once.
• Rogan Josh, Kashmir: This is a slow-cooked lamb dish with a deep red gravy made from Kashmiri chilies. It’s aromatic and rich, but not super spicy. The flavor comes from spices like fennel and ginger instead of heat. Some traditional versions use cockscomb flower for the red color. Ahdoos in Srinagar is known for sticking to the old-school method.
• Chole Bhature, Punjab: This is a filling combo of spicy chickpeas and deep-fried bread. The bread is fermented, so it gets big and airy, perfect for scooping up the chole. You’ll usually get some pickled vegetables or raw onions on the side to cut through the richness.

Do I need a SIM card in India? How do I stay connected?

If you want to stay connected while traveling around India, getting a local SIM card is usually the easiest and most cost-effective way. Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone are the big providers, and you can usually pick one up at the airport or at shops in most cities. Just know it’s not instant—you’ll need a copy of your passport, a passport photo, and you’ll have to fill out some paperwork. Activation can take anywhere from an hour to a full day.

If you're only in India for a short time or want to avoid the paperwork, eSIMs like Airalo or Nomad are a decent option. They’re more expensive, and only work with some phone models, but they’re quick and easy to set up before you even land.

WiFi is hit or miss. You'll usually find decent connections in nicer hotels and cafés, but it can be patchy elsewhere. Some cities have free public WiFi, but it’s not always secure, so using a VPN is a smart move.

Dressing modestly in India

In India, dressing modestly isn’t just something to think about for temples—it’s useful day to day, especially outside big cities or touristy areas. 

For women, clothes that cover your shoulders, chest, and knees tend to draw less attention and help you feel more at ease. Loose-fitting clothes also work better in the heat. Men should skip sleeveless tops and short shorts if they’re headed to more conservative regions. 

It’s not just about what you wear, either. Public displays of affection—like kissing or even holding hands—can feel out of place in many areas, unless you’re in a bigger, more cosmopolitan city. 

Don’t try to see everything (you can’t)

India is huge, and each part of it feels different—different food, languages, scenery, even pace of life. It’s easy to underestimate how long it takes to get from one place to another, or how tiring it can be to travel long distances back-to-back. 

Instead of trying to cram in too many places, pick one or two nearby regions and take your time. You’ll get more out of your trip by slowing down.