What to expect when traveling to India
India is a land of contrasts, where ancient and modern worlds collide. A visitor to India can expect to find an astonishingly diverse country, with an array of cultures, religions, landscapes and experiences. India is a place where it’s possible to visit temples and forts dating back thousands of years, as well as experience the hustle and bustle of some of the world’s most densely populated cities. From its snow-capped Himalayan peaks to its sun-drenched beaches, India has something for everyone.
If you are thinking about traveling to India, then this is the ultimate beginners guide for you! We will take you through everything you need to know before embarking on your journey, including what to expect, what visas to get and how much money to bring with you. We also provide a list of the top 25 tourist attractions in India that everyone should visit!
The culture: What to know before traveling to India
India is a country rich in culture and tradition. There are many things to know before traveling to India to make sure you have the best experience possible.
Here are six important tips to keep in mind:
- Be respectful of India’s religious customs and beliefs. Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs each have their own distinct religious holidays and customs that should be respected.
- Dress conservatively when traveling in India. Women should avoid wearing shorts or skirts above the knee, and men should avoid wearing tank tops or shorts.
- Learn a few phrases in Hindi before your trip. This will help you communicate with locals and get by easier while traveling around the country.
- Beware of scams! There are many scams targeting tourists in India, so be aware of what to watch out for and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
- Take precautions against malaria and dengue fever. Malaria is a very common disease in India, especially in the southern states, and requires no vaccination to prevent. Dengue fever is less widespread, but also requires no vaccination for prevention.
- If you are traveling to India during the monsoon season, be aware of flooding and landslides. These can be deadly.
The people: What to know before traveling to India
India is a country that is rich in culture and history. If you are planning on traveling to India, there are some things you should know before you go. The people of India are very hospitable and welcoming, but they can also be very direct. Be prepared for someone to ask you where you are from or what your religion is. It is also important to be aware that India is a very diverse country, with many different languages and dialects spoken throughout the country.
The food: What to know before traveling to India
If you’re traveling to India, there are a few things you should know about the food. First of all, Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, with dishes from all over the country. You’ll find everything from spicy curries to sweet desserts. There are also a number of popular Indian dishes that you may be familiar with, such as chicken tikka masala and naan bread.
Indian food is also very spicy. If you’re not used to spicy food, be prepared for your mouth to burn when you eat it. In addition, Indian food is often served with rice or naan bread. So if you’re not a fan of rice or carbs, you may want to order something else instead.
Finally, don’t be afraid to try new foods while in India. There are plenty of delicious dishes waiting for you to discover them.
The climate: What to know before traveling to India
It is important to be aware of the climate before traveling to India. The country is large with a diverse landscape, so the weather can vary greatly depending on which region you are visiting. Generally, the north is cooler and more humid than the south. The hottest months are April and May, while December through February is the coolest time of year. Be sure to pack clothing for a variety of weather conditions, and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature.
How should I prepare for a trip to India?
India is a country that can be both overwhelming and enchanting for first-time visitors. With a population of over 1.4 billion, it’s the second most populous country in the world. India also has a diverse landscape that ranges from the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the beaches of Kerala in the south, and everything in between.
Make sure you’re familiar with the culture and customs before you go. India is not like the United States or Europe – there are many things that are done differently here, and if you’re not prepared for it, you may find yourself feeling lost and confused. Do some research on the internet or read a book about India before you go so that you’ll know what to expect.
If you’re planning a trip to India, here are some tips to help make your journey smoother:
- Plan your trip well in advance. India is a big country with lots of different attractions, so it’s best to have a plan before you go. Decide which areas you want to visit and research how to get there.
- Book your accommodation and transportation ahead of time. Most of the major cities have several hotels and guesthouses that offer good value for money. You can either book a hotel online or you can stay at one of the guesthouses in India.
- Ensure that you prepare your documents and bring them along. A list of required documents is available here when traveling to India.
- Get a visa before you go. India is a big country and even if you’re familiar with the area, it’s always a good idea to be sure you have the correct documentation. There are several consulates in the U.S. and U.K. that can provide you with all the information and help you need to make sure your trip is a success.
- Make sure you get vaccinated ahead of time. Do a check of the recommended vaccinations and medications and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip for any necessary vaccines or medications.
What do I need to know before Travelling to India?
Travelling to India can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it is important to do your research before you go. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- The currency in India is the Indian rupee (INR). You will need cash in addition to your foreign currency.
- In India, the national emergency number is 112. This number can be dialed from any phone, including cell phones, and will connect you with emergency services. The number is toll-free, so you don’t have to worry about being charged for calling it. 112 can be used to report a crime, find medical help, or get emergency assistance of any kind.
- There are many different languages spoken in India, so be sure to know at least one of them. The Indian Constitution has specified Hindi and English to be the two official languages of communication for the government. Hindi is the most commonly spoken language.
- Visa and passport requirements for Indian tourists vary. Check with the Indian Embassy in your country for specific information about visa requirements
- Travel to India is subject to a number of unique health risks and precautions, so be sure to read up on what you can do to stay healthy during your trip.
- If you’re thinking about taking a trip to India in the next few months, there are a few things to keep in mind. October is the best time of year to visit, largely because temperatures are mild and there’s not as much rainfall as later in the year. March is also a good time to go, but it can be quite hot and humid. If you’re looking to avoid summer crowds, try visiting between November and February.
- India is a vast country with many people and a variety of transportation options. From train to bus to metro to cab, there are plenty of ways to get around. If you’re looking for a comfortable way to travel, choose the mode of transportation that suits your needs best.
- Popular international airports in India are Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Kolkata (CCU), Chennai (MAA), Hyderabad (HYD), and Bengaluru (BLR).
India Must See: What Are The Top Tourist Attractions In India
India is a country filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s also a place where tourists can find some of the top tourist attractions in the world. Here are India’s most popular tourist attractions.
Monuments & Memorial
- Taj Mahal
- Gateway of India
- India Gate
- Qutub Minar
- Charminar
National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Jim Corbett National Park
- Kaziranga National park
- Periyar National park
- Hemis National park
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National park
Palaces & Forts
- Mysore Palace
- Hawa Mahal & Amber Fort
- Mehrangarh Port
- Jaisalmer Fort & Chittorgarh
- Laxmi Vilas Palace
Caves & Temples
- Ajanta & Ellora Caves
- Amarnath Cave
- Puri Jagannath Temple & Sun Temple
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Golden Temple
Other Must-Visit Places
- Goa Beaches
- Kerala Backwaters
- Himachal Hill Stations
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Coffee Plantations in Karnataka
Top 5 Most Popular Festivals to visit in India
India is home to some of the most popular festivals in the world. From Bollywood events to religious ceremonies, these festivals offer a range of experiences for tourists. Here are the five most popular festivals that tourists should consider visiting while in India.
Makar Sankranti
The festival Makar Sankranti is celebrated in the Hindu month of January. This festival is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu sun god Surya, as it is mentioned in the Vedas, and particularly in the Gayatri Mantra, a sacred hymn.
Holi
The Indian celebration of Holi is often called the Festival of Colors, and it commemorates the victory of good versus evil, specifically the vanquishing of the demoness Holika. It frequently takes place in early March during the Hindu month of Phalguna, near full moon.
Ganesh Chaturthi
During Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees travel to several temples across Tamil Nadu, contributing to the festival’s great fervor with the help of special prayers, aartis, and pujas. Additionally, huge pandals are also set up where giant Ganesh idols are displayed, allowing visitors to visit them and worship.
Dussehra
Dussehra is celebrated on the 10th day of the Ashvin month (September-October), the seventh month on the Hindu calendar, with the bright moon. It is celebrated as the bright fortnight (shukla paksha).
Deepavali (Diwali)
One of the more important festivals in India is Deepavali, or the Festival of Lights. For five days, the festival includes delicious food, vibrant fireworks, colorful sand, and fragrant candles and lamps. Hindus typically interpret the Deepavali legend based on their geographic location.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about traveling to India, now is the time! The country is in the midst of a major revival, with new tourist destinations popping up all the time.
Planning your first India trip? Here’s a handy travel guide infographic to India with quick information about the country. Check it out!
