Asia · 31 Places · Best October to March (cool and dry)
India is a vast and diverse South Asian nation offering ancient temples, vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and the majestic Himalayas. From the iconic Taj Mahal to spiritual Varanasi and tropical Kerala backwaters, India delivers unforgettable experiences across its 28 states and 8 union territories.
India is a vast and diverse South Asian nation offering ancient temples, vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and the majestic Himalayas. From the iconic Taj Mahal to spiritual Varanasi and tropical Kerala backwaters, India delivers unforgettable experiences across its 28 states and 8 union territories.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 31 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The world's most famous monument to love, this white marble mausoleum was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The intricate marble inlay work, symmetrical gardens, and reflecting pools create an ethereal experience, especially at sunrise.
This massive red sandstone fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The sprawling complex includes palaces, audience halls, and museums showcasing India's rich history and the struggle for independence.
The iconic Palace of Winds features 953 small windows (jharokhas) that allowed royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen. The pink sandstone facade is one of Jaipur's most photographed landmarks.
The holiest shrine of Sikhism, this stunning gold-plated temple sits in the middle of a sacred pool. The temple welcomes visitors of all faiths and serves free meals to over 100,000 people daily in the world's largest community kitchen.
This iconic 26-meter high arch monument was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. Located on the waterfront in Mumbai, it's the starting point for boat rides to Elephanta Caves.
This Indo-Saracenic palace is one of India's most magnificent royal residences, featuring intricate carvings, stained glass ceilings, and opulent halls. The palace is illuminated with nearly 100,000 lights on Sundays and holidays.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
This iconic heritage hotel overlooks the Gateway of India and Arabian Sea. Built in 1903, it combines old-world charm with modern luxury, featuring opulent suites, award-winning restaurants, and a world-class spa.
Check rates on Booking.comWell-located hotel in Varanasi offering clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The rooftop restaurant provides views of the Ganges and serves excellent Indian and continental cuisine.
Check rates on Booking.comClean, no-frills accommodation in Delhi's Paharganj area. Basic rooms with essential amenities, perfect for backpackers exploring Old Delhi and nearby attractions.
Check rates on Booking.comEvery room offers unobstructed views of the Taj Mahal from just 600 meters away. This luxury property features Mughal-inspired architecture, terraced lawns, fountains, and exceptional service in Agra.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Legendary restaurant at ITC Maurya serving rustic North-West Frontier cuisine. Famous for its dal bukhara and tandoori dishes, frequented by world leaders and celebrities since 1978.
Historic restaurant established in 1913 near Jama Masjid, famous for its mutton dishes and authentic Mughlai flavors. A must-visit for traditional Delhi cuisine.
Popular chain serving vegetarian Indian snacks, sweets, and meals. Great for trying chaat, samosas, and traditional sweets at budget prices.
Narrow lane in Old Delhi famous for paratha shops operating since the 1870s. Try various stuffed parathas from multiple small vendors.
Specialty coffee roaster with cafes serving single-origin Indian coffee. Modern minimalist design with excellent espresso-based drinks.
Award-winning restaurant reinventing Indian cuisine with global ingredients and innovative techniques. Set in a beautiful manor with exceptional presentation and service.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8-$15 (hostels, budget guesthouses) | $30-$50 (mid-range hotels, Airbnb) | $120-$300+ (luxury hotels, heritage properties, palace hotels) |
| Food (per day) | $8-$12 (street food, local restaurants, self-catering) | $18-$25 (mix of local and tourist restaurants, some cafes) | $50-$100 (fine dining, hotel restaurants, high-end cafes) |
| Transportation | $3-$5 (local buses, metro, auto-rickshaws) | $8-$12 (Uber/Ola, some auto-rickshaws, occasional trains) | $25-$80 (private car with driver, domestic flights) |
| Activities | $5-$8 (free temples, cheap entry fees, walking tours) | $15-$20 (paid attractions, guides, some experiences) | $50-$120 (private guides, exclusive experiences, spa treatments) |
| Daily total | $25-$40 | $60-$100 | $200-$500+ |
Register with your country's embassy or consulate upon arrival for emergency contact.
Women should avoid traveling alone at night; use women-only compartments on trains and metros.
Keep valuables, passports, and cash in a money belt or hotel safe; avoid displaying expensive jewelry.
Only use prepaid registered taxis, Ola, or Uber — avoid unmarked vehicles or touts at airports.
Drink only sealed bottled water; avoid ice in drinks and raw salads from street stalls.
Be vigilant in crowded tourist sites like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort for pickpockets and bag snatchers.
Research required vaccinations (typhoid, hepatitis A/B, rabies) and carry antimalarial medication for rural areas.
Respect local dress codes; cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples, mosques, and shrines.
Beware of common scams: gem investment schemes, fake tour operators, and closed-monument diversions.
Air quality in Delhi can reach hazardous levels October to February; carry an N95 mask.
Carry a paper copy of your visa, passport, and travel insurance details in case of theft.
Negotiate auto-rickshaw and taxi fares before boarding or insist on the meter to avoid overcharging.
India is a generally safe country for tourists but requires vigilance and preparation. Crime against tourists is mostly opportunistic theft and scams rather than violent crime. Women travelers face additional challenges around street harassment, particularly in North India's smaller cities and towns. Emergency services: police at 100, medical at 102 (ambulance) or 108 (in some states).
The best time to visit India is October to March (cool and dry). India's vast geography creates dramatically different climatic zones — from the alpine cold of the Himalayas to the tropical heat of Kerala and the desert aridity of Rajasthan. The Indian subcontinent
e-Visa available online for tourist, business, and medical purposes. Multiple-entry tourist visa valid up to 10 years with maximum 180-day stay per visit. Passport must have 6 months validity from arrival date. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR) (INR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in India: Hindi, English, Bengali. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in India include Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Hawa Mahal, Golden Temple, and Gateway of India. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
Each region has its own character — coastal, alpine, vineyard, capital. Pick a starting point.
Delhi, India's sprawling capital territory, is a city where ancient monuments stand beside ultramodern malls and Mughal gardens shadow gleaming corporate towers. As one of the world's most populous cities, Delhi offers an intoxicating blend of history spanning 3,000 years, from Iron Age settlements to British colonial architecture. The city serves as the political, cultural, and commercial heart of India, drawing millions of visitors annually to its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant street food scene, and legendary bazaars.
Goa is India's smallest state by area but one of its most vibrant, famous for its stunning Arabian Sea coastline, Portuguese colonial heritage, and a unique fusion of Indian and European culture. From the party beaches of Baga and Anjuna in the north to the tranquil coves of Palolem and Agonda in the south, Goa offers something for every traveler.
Kerala, known as 'God's Own Country,' is a lush tropical state on India's southwest Malabar Coast, celebrated for its serene backwaters, verdant tea plantations, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. It is one of the most literate and developed states in India, offering a unique blend of Ayurvedic traditions, diverse wildlife, and vibrant festivals.
Maharashtra is India's second-most populous state and a powerhouse of culture, history, and natural beauty. Home to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, ancient UNESCO World Heritage cave complexes at Ajanta and Ellora, majestic Sahyadri mountain forts, and pristine Konkan coastline beaches, Maharashtra offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences for every type of traveler.
Rajasthan, India's largest state by area, is a land of vibrant colors, majestic forts, and royal palaces that transport visitors back to an era of Maharajas and ancient trade routes. From the pink-hued city of Jaipur to the blue alleys of Jodhpur and the shimmering lakes of Udaipur, Rajasthan offers an unparalleled tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. The Thar Desert in the west and the Aravalli mountain range create dramatic landscapes that make Rajasthan one of India's most photogenic and culturally rich destinations.
Tamil Nadu is a southern Indian state renowned for its Dravidian temples, classical dance, and rich cultural heritage spanning over 2,000 years. From the ancient Chola temples of Thanjavur to the pristine beaches of Kanyakumari, the state offers an unparalleled blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
