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India is an interesting country to visit with its heritage and landscapes. Whether it is the snowy peaks or the sand, the ancient monuments or the festivals, India has something for everyone. India, yoga’s motherland, blends spirituality with landscapes and crowded metropolises. This India travel guide will fill you with all the information required to see the wonders of India. Whether you’re an adventurer, historian or a peace-loving tourist, India is for you. Get ready to have your sights twisted as you navigate through smoky bazaars, sample spiciness and enjoy architectural wonders.
Location
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
India lies in South Asia, surrounded by Pakistan in the northwestern region, China and Nepal in the north, Bhutan in the northeast and Bangladesh and Myanmar in the east. Its surrounding seas include the Indian Ocean to its south, the Arabian Sea to its west and the Bay of Bengal to its east. The country’s territory spans 3.287 million square kilometres, which makes it the seventh-largest in the world. Indian geography includes the Himalayas, the Thar Desert, the plains, tropical jungles and vast coastlines.
How To Reach
Photo: Bharatahs / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: India is well-connected to the world through its numerous international airports, including Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai) and Kempegowda International Airport (Bengaluru). Most major airlines operate direct or connecting flights to India.
By Road: India shares open borders with Nepal and Bhutan, making road travel possible. Buses run regularly from these countries to India.
By Rail: Neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh are linked to India by rail routes such as the Samjhauta Express and Maitree Express.
India Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit
Here are the best wonders of the incredible nation, India, suggested by this India travel guide, offering the most enriching experiences:
1. Agra
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Agra, the City of the Taj, blends Mughal history and architectural splendor. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the breathtaking Taj Mahal, the grand Agra Fort and the elegant Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb. Agra also features Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Mughal architecture. Visitors can enjoy traditional crafts, marble inlay work and delicious local delicacies like petha and Mughlai cuisine. Bustling markets such as Sadar Bazaar and Kinari Bazaar offer souvenirs. The city becomes even more vibrant during the Taj Mahotsav festival.
Location: Uttar Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Jaipur
Photo: Chinmaykp25 / Wikimedia Commons
Jaipur, the Pink City, fuses royal history, culture and architectural wonder. The city boasts many historic structures, such as the Amber Fort, the honeycomb-like exterior of Hawa Mahal and the intricately crafted City Palace. Jaipur also houses the Jantar Mantar Observatory, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are camel rides, Rajasthani folk dances, and tasty regional delicacies such as dal baati churma and ghewar for visitors. Jaipur’s bazaars like Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are ideal places to buy jewellery, textiles and handicrafts. The city gets even more charismatic during festivals such as Teej and Jaipur Literature Festival.
Location: Rajasthan
Best Time To Visit: November to February
3. Varanasi
Photo: SWASTIK 25 / Wikimedia Commons
The world’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Varanasi, is a spiritual centre for Hindus. The city is situated along the holy Ganges and boasts ancient ghats on which pilgrims take holy dips, perform rituals and meditate. Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for its evening Ganga Aarti, a kirtan ritual of lamps, incense and singing. There are tranquil boat trips to experience the morning sunlight while taking in the amazing sights of the city and temples. Varanasi is also dotted with heritage sites such as Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon. The city’s winding alleys are filled with folk art, Banarasi sarees and delicious street food.
Location: Uttar Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Goa
Photo: Sam 8393 / Wikimedia Commons
Goa is a tropical wonderland filled with golden beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese heritage. It’s a combination of rest and play, from sunbathing on Baga and Calangute beaches to a trek through the densely tumultuous Dudhsagar Waterfalls. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captures Goa’s colonial past. Parasailing, jet skiing and scuba diving are popular water sports. The seafood in the Goan shacks is mouthwatering. You must witness Goa Carnival, a music, dance and parade festival. South Goa’s beaches, such as Palolem, offer peace lovers a quiet retreat.
Location: West Coast of India
Best Time To Visit: November to February
5. Mysore
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Mysore, the City of Palaces, blends royal heritage, culture and architectural splendor. The city is home to magnificent landmarks like the Mysore Palace, the intricate carvings of Chamundi Hill Temple and the historic Jaganmohan Palace. Mysore also features the Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountain and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy Mysore’s silk sarees, classical dance performances and delicious local treats like Mysore Pak and dosa. Devaraja Market is a vibrant hub for spices, sandalwood and handicrafts. The city becomes even more enchanting during Dasara, a grand festival of lights and processions.
Location: Karnataka
Best Time To Visit: November to February
6. Ladakh
Photo: Eatcha / Wikimedia Commons
Ladakh is also known as the Land of High Passes, an absolute paradise for nature and adventure lovers. Set in the Himalayas, it has spartan landscapes, blue lakes such as Pangong Tso, and distinctive Tibetan Buddhist culture. Monasteries such as Hemis and Thiksey offer mystical experiences; festivals such as Hemis Tsechu offer a cultural spectacle. Trekkers can enjoy trekking, river rafting in the Zanskar River and riding bikes along the world’s highest motorable roads, like Khardung La. The unspoiled beauty of the place, along with the people’s hospitality, carries a lasting impression on travellers.
Location: Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: June to September
7. Andaman And Nicobar Islands
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
These islands are a tropical wonder for beachgoers and water enthusiasts. The powdery white sand and turbid water of Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island are said to be the best in the world. The public can snorkel, scuba dive or take glass-bottom boats to see what’s going on underwater. Museums, such as the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, retell the story of Indian independence. These islands also boast many species of plants and animals, including rare coral reefs. Whether you prefer spending time in the sun, eating freshly caught seafood or hiking through mangroves, the Andaman Islands are a relaxing and thrilling vacation destination.
Location: Bay of Bengal
Best Time To Visit: October to May
8. Guwahati
Photo: Kunal Dalui / Wikimedia Commons
Guwahati, the Gateway to Northeast India, blends spirituality, nature and cultural vibrancy. The city is home to the revered Kamakhya Temple, a major pilgrimage site atop Nilachal Hill. The serene Brahmaputra River flows through Guwahati, offering scenic cruises. Visitors can explore Umananda Island, Assam State Museum and the bustling markets of Fancy Bazaar. Rich Assamese traditions come alive with Bihu dance and local delicacies like masor tenga and pithas. Guwahati is especially lively during festivals like Ambubachi Mela and Rongali Bihu, adding to its unique charm.
Location: Northeast India
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Where To Eat
Photo: Zainakil / Wikimedia Commons
India is a foodie’s paradise; it has a myriad of tastes and flavours. Enjoy North Indian cuisines like butter chicken and chaat at Paranthe Wali Gali or Karim’s in Delhi. Daal baati churma and laal maas are some of the renowned dishes of Rajasthan, best eaten in Jaipur’s local restaurants. Try dosas and idlis at traditional restaurants in Chennai or Bengaluru in South India. Goa serves seafood and Portuguese cuisine, while Kerala serves fish curries and appams. In terms of international food, big metros such as Mumbai and Bengaluru have fine dining choices. Also, check out street food experiences from Mumbai’s vada pav to Kolkata’s puchkas.
Where To Stay
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
There are numerous lodging options in India, from budget to luxurious hotels. In Rajasthan, visit old palaces turned into hotels like Udaipur’s Taj Lake Palace. Large cities such as Delhi and Mumbai are full of chain hotels and boutique hotels from around the world. There are budget hostels for backpackers in Goa, Rishikesh, and Himachal Pradesh. If you’re visiting Kerala, opt for a houseboat for an exotic feel. In Ladakh or Meghalaya, homestays give a chance to experience local culture. Oberoi and Taj Hotels are the best options for luxury hotels, whereas OYO Rooms and Airbnb cater to budget travellers in India.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
- India is culturally diverse; dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- While digital payments are common, small vendors in rural areas still rely on cash.
- Carry bottled water and avoid tap water to prevent issues.
- Carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.
India is unique in its diversity, history and welcoming nature. Be it exploring ruins, sitting in meditation rooms in ashrams or tasting delicious cuisines, India is an experience you will never forget. With this India travel guide, you can now set off to find the best of this vibrant nation. Pack your bags and plan your trip to India with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Antrix3 / Wikimedia Commons
