India is the seventh largest country in the world and is also one of the world’s most beautiful countries, and if it’s not already on your bucket list, it definitely should be.
Many first time visitors to India choose to go for the Golden Triangle, which is made up of Agra, Delhi, and Jaipur or a Rajasthan itinerary, which takes you from Delhi to Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Agra and the Taj Mahal on a journey through the mythical cities of northern India, which I think is such a fantastic introduction to India, or Mumbai.
Here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to India!
The Taj Mahal
When to go to India
Contents
First things first, the main deciding factor regarding your trip should be when to go. November to March is ideal, as the temperature is more pleasant than April-October, when India is at its hottest.
To see Indian culture at its best and for a truly unforgettable experience, why not plan a trip to incredible India during one of the many fabulous and distinct festivals that are held throughout the year. They are a fantastic time to visit as each festival has a colourful story and various rituals attached to them.
Visas for India
You will require an Indian Visa to visit India, (with the exception of citizens of Bhutan and Nepal who do not need a visa). It is essential that you apply for your visa in advance before planning to travel to India.
The visa application process to enter India for a holiday is pretty simple and inexpensive. Around 113 nationalities can apply for an e-visa.
Your passport also needs to be valid for six months from your time of arrival and have at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
Where to Go in India
India’s North is so different from the South in a multitude of ways, ranging from the architecture and language to food and landscapes.
If you like more mountainous regions we recommend heading north to the peaks of Himachal Pradesh and the Indian Himalayas in Ladakh.
If you are a beach lover, we recommend heading south to Kerala. Kerala has a charm and gentleness unlike anywhere else in India. Here you can be as relaxed or as energetic as you wish. This is where you’ll find a combination of beaches and backwaters, as well as some delicious coconut and chilli fish curries to indulge on!
How to Get Around in India
Rickshaws and Ubers
Rickshaws and Ubers are the easiest ways to travel within a city in India, with both being frequent and inexpensive.
Domestic Flights
If you want to hop between cities, the fastest way is through domestic flights. Be aware of luggage restrictions though.
Trains
The Indian Railway is a huge part of the infrastructure of India and we recommend experiencing a rail journey at least once.
Buses
Buses are a great option for getting to and from smaller towns that don’t have railway access.
There are also plenty of overnight sleeper buses on longer distance routes which have air-conditioning.
Food to try
Old Delhi is a great place to get stuck into street food, with chaat (a savoury potato-based snack) a good starter if you’re just finding your feet.
Lassi (a fruity yoghurt drink) is o tasty and refreshing and I recommend getting either a mango or strawberry lassi without ice to avoid drinking tap water.
Dal is a lentil dish sometimes served in little metal pots. It’s filling, delicious and wholesome and really sets you up for the day.
The seafood in Kerala is sublime. Make sure you try a prawn biryani or a marinated fish masala curry if you’re heading down south.
You can buy alcohol in most large Indian cities and towns. Beer, wine and spirits are served at most restaurants and hotels.
Currency
The currency used in India is Rupees and these cannot be purchased or obtained outside of India and also cannot be changed back outside of India, so make sure you don’t take out more than you need, or remember to change it back before you leave India.
Have plenty of small change for tips but as much as possible try to use a credit card for the best exchange rate.
Accommodation
Beautiful accommodation
Accommodation in India ranges from budget to ultimate luxury with so many options, such as staying in hostels, havelis and home stays to luxury five star opulent hotels. There is something to suit every budget.
You can even stay in a Maharaja’s Palace if you desire and live it up like royalty!
Check out accommodation in this link
Useful words and phrases
Namaste- Hello
Acha- good
Acha na-he- not good
Tike hay- right, yeah or say ha/ haji -yes
Kitna rupia- how much?
Krupiyah- please & shukriyah- thank you
Ek bottle Pani dedo- give me 1 bottle water
Want to know if the water is clean, ask “yay pani sof hay?”
1, 2, 3, 4, 5- ek, do, teen, cha, panch
How to book
For a country as diverse as India I highly recommend booking an itinerary made by a reputed travel company specifically for India holidays as if you try and do it yourself it can be quite difficult.
They can also advise on any extensions or add ons to your trip!
Check out flights here
Check out my top recommendations for hotels here
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