India Travel Tips: Smart Travel Guide Before Visiting India

 

ABOUT INDIA

India, one of the world's oldest civilizations, boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage that spans thousands of years. The country covers an area of 3,287,263 sq. km, stretching from the snow-capped peaks of the Great Himalayas in the north to the coastal plains in the south. It extends from the arid deserts of the west to the fertile deltas of the east and from the dry heat of the central plateau to the lush forests in the northeastern foothills. India measures approximately 3,214 km from north to south and about 2,933 km from east to west. The land frontier extends to about 15,200 km, while the total length of its coastline, including the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, is 7,516.6 km.

Geographical Features

• The Indian subcontinent is home to diverse geographical landscapes, including the Thar Desert, the Deccan Plateau, the fertile Indo-Gangetic Plain, and the Western and Eastern Ghats.

• The country is intersected by several major rivers, such as the Ganges, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, which sustain agriculture and biodiversity.

• India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories, with varied cultural and linguistic diversity across regions.

Population

India surpassed China in 2023 to become the most populous country in the world, with an estimated population of over 1.42 billion people. It is a young nation, with over 65% of its population under the age of 35. India is also one of the most linguistically diverse countries, with 22 officially recognized languages and over 1,600 dialects spoken.

Capital

New Delhi serves as the capital of India and is home to key government institutions, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence), the Parliament of India, and the Supreme Court. The city is a historical hub, housing UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar.

Time Zone

India follows Indian Standard Time (IST), which is GMT +5:30 hours. Unlike some other countries, India does not observe daylight saving time.

 

Climate and Weather

India has a diverse climate that varies significantly across regions. The country experiences four distinct seasons:

• Winter (December to February): Northern India sees cool to cold temperatures, while the southern regions remain relatively warm. Some parts of the Himalayas receive snowfall.

• Summer (March to June): Temperatures can rise significantly, often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in northern and central India, while coastal regions remain moderately warm.

• Monsoon (June to September): The southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall to most parts of India, replenishing rivers and agricultural lands.

• Post-Monsoon/Autumn (October to November): The retreating monsoon leads to moderate temperatures and clearer skies.

Best Time to Visit: October to March is considered the most favorable time for tourists due to pleasant weather conditions. However, those looking for off-season discounts and fewer crowds may prefer visiting between April and September, particularly in hill stations.

 

Religion and Cultural Diversity

India is a secular country with a vast array of religious practices and traditions. The major religions practiced in India are:

• Hinduism: 79.8% of the population follows Hinduism, making it the dominant religion. India is home to numerous sacred sites such as Varanasi, Rameswaram, and Kedarnath.

• Islam: 14.2% of the population practices Islam, making India one of the largest Muslim-populated countries in the world.

• Christianity: 2.3% of Indians are Christians, with significant communities in Kerala, Goa, and the northeastern states.

• Sikhism: 1.7% of the population follows Sikhism, with Punjab as its cultural and religious center.

• Buddhism: 0.7% of Indians practice Buddhism. India is the birthplace of Buddhism, with Bodh Gaya being one of the most significant pilgrimage sites.

• Jainism: 0.4% follow Jainism, known for its principles of non-violence and asceticism.

• Other Religions: 1% includes Parsis (Zoroastrians), Jews, Bahá'ís, and indigenous tribal religions.

India is also the birthplace of four major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, each contributing to the country's deep spiritual and philosophical traditions.

India’s diversity is reflected in its festivals, art, music, and cuisine. From the grandeur of Diwali and Holi to the fervor of Eid, Christmas, and Guru Nanak Jayanti, the nation thrives on cultural celebrations. With a rapidly growing economy, cutting-edge technology, and deep-rooted traditions, India continues to be a land of contrast, blending ancient heritage with modern progress.

INDIA TRAVEL TIPS

Visa Requirements

A visa is essential to enter India, and travelers must apply for one in advance. Things to do before travel to India include applying for an e-Visa on the Indian government website. Australian nationals, among others, can obtain an e-Visa, which should be applied for at least four days before the travel date. Approval generally takes 72 hours post-application.

Important: Guests' passports should have at least two blank pages and a minimum six-month validity from the date of arrival.

 

Airports & Baggage Allowance

• Domestic Flights: Check-in time is two hours before departure.

• International Flights: Check-in time is three hours before departure.

• Baggage Allowance:

1. Domestic flights: 15 kg (check-in baggage) + 7 kg (cabin baggage) per person.

2. Extra weight incurs additional charges, payable directly to the airline.

 

Internet & Connectivity

While many hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi, connectivity may be limited in remote areas. Things to know before traveling to India include getting a local SIM card on arrival at the airport or booking a smartphone in advance with features such as:

• Preloaded local apps for maps, restaurants, and travel tips.

• Unlimited 3G/4G/5G internet and domestic calls.

• Free incoming calls (both domestic and international).

 

Clothing & Weather-Based Dressing Advice

India is modern yet traditional in various regions. Tips for visiting India include dressing modestly, especially in religious places like temples, mosques, and pilgrimage sites. Carry a stole/shawl to cover up when required.

• Summer (April to June): Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay cool.

• Monsoon (July to September): Pack a raincoat/umbrella and waterproof shoes.

• Winter (October to March): Carry warm clothing if visiting North India, as temperatures can drop significantly.

 

Hygiene, Food & Water Safety

• Drink only bottled or boiled water. Avoid tap water, ice cubes, and fountain drinks.

• Luxury tours India often include filtered water in five-star hotels.

• Freshly cooked food is the safest option; avoid street food unless from a hygienic and reputable vendor.

• Avoid raw salads or fruit juices from roadside vendors due to the possibility of contamination.

• Always carry hand sanitizer, paper soap, and toilet paper, as they may not be available in public places.

 

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is customary and forms part of earnings in tourism-dependent professions. Best India travel guide recommendations for tipping:

• Drivers: USD 10 (INR 800) per day.

• Waiters: USD 2 (INR 150) or 5-10% of the bill.

• Guides: USD 8-25 (INR 700-2000), depending on the expertise.

• Bellboys: USD 4 (INR 300).

 

Currency Exchange & Payments

The official currency is Indian Rupee (INR). Best tour guide in India suggests the following for money exchange:

• Exchange money only at banks or authorized exchange bureaus.

• Avoid unauthorized money changers, as it is illegal and risky.

• Most hotels, major stores, and airports exchange USD, EUR, GBP, and AUD.

• Carry some cash when traveling to remote locations, as ATMs may be scarce.

• Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but small vendors may not accept them.

 

Train Travel in India

Experiencing India's railway network is a highlight of any journey. India tour guide tips for train travel include:

• Beware of pickpockets while boarding and alighting.

• Do not accept food from strangers.

• Keep valuables secure, as crowded compartments can be targets for theft.

• Wait for our representative at the platform after deboarding.

 

Women Travelers’ Safety in India

While India is generally safe, private tour guide India experts recommend:

• Dressing modestly to avoid unwanted attention.

• Avoiding isolated places after dark.

• Using verified taxis or app-based transport.

• Staying in reputable hotels with good reviews.

• Being confident and aware of your surroundings.

 

Public Toilets & Hygiene

• Toilets in hotels and fine restaurants are generally clean.

• Public restrooms and highway toilets may not be hygienic.

• Train toilets are clean at the start of a journey but may become unclean later.

• Always carry hand sanitizer and tissues.

 

Learn Basic Hindi Phrases

Learning some local words enhances interactions with locals. Some useful phrases include:

• Namaste (Hello)

• Dhanyavaad (Thank you)

• Kitna hai? (How much is this?)

• Madad karein (Please help)

• Mujhe yahan jaana hai (I need to go here)

 

Luxury & Pilgrimage Tours in India

India is a paradise for luxury and religious tourism. Luxury tours India offer personalized experiences, including five-star heritage stays, guided historical walks, and curated culinary journeys. Pilgrimage tours India cover sacred sites such as:

• Varanasi – The spiritual capital of India.

• Rishikesh & Haridwar – Yoga and Hindu pilgrimage hubs.

• Golden Temple, Amritsar – The holiest Sikh shrine.

• Bodh Gaya – A sacred Buddhist site.

• Tirupati, Rameswaram, and Madurai – Major South Indian temples.