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22 things you need to know before visiting India

Dec 15, 2023 • 14 min read

India is a feast for the senses and we've got everything you need to know before you visit © Andrii Lutsyk / Ascent Xmedia / Getty Images

India is a place that overwhelms your senses in the best possible way – nowhere else delivers quite the same barrage of sights, sounds and sensations as this continent-sized country at the heart of Asia.

It would take a lifetime to see all of India , let alone understand every nuance and facet of this nation of 1.4 billion inhabitants. But with a little preparation, you can learn to navigate the richness of this country, from its snow-capped peaks and velvety beaches to its historic temples and luxuriant palaces.

We've collated the top things you need to know about visiting India, but the journey begins before you leave home. Apply for your Indian visa online for a smooth arrival on the subcontinent. Read on for 22 more insider tips that will help make your vacation unforgettable.

1. Plan your trip around the seasons

India has a reputation for being hot and humid, but with beaches, mountains, hills, coastlines and plains all jammed into a relatively small geographical area, the climate is quite diverse. The southwest monsoon brings rainy weather to most of the country from June to September, but this is the best time of year to visit the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh , although depending on the route you take, you risk encountering landslides and floods.

In the far south, there’s also a milder rainy season from October to December. The ideal weather window for travel is from October to May, though temperatures and humidity climb to agonizing levels from March onwards in the run-up to the monsoon. If you find yourself in India in the spring, head to the Himalayan foothills for milder temperatures and good trekking conditions.

2. Get your jabs before you travel

There is no official requirement for vaccinations to enter India (although yellow fever vaccination is needed if you are traveling from a country where the disease is endemic).

That said, it is important that you contact a health professional at least eight weeks before you travel to ensure your jabs are up to date. Vaccinations for diphtheria and tetanus, hepatitis A and B, polio and typhoid are usually recommended, on top of childhood vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella.

Vaccinations worth considering for longer trips include Japanese B encephalitis, meningitis and rabies. Monkeys, dogs and cats can all carry the rabies parasite, and infection is fatal if untreated.

3. Take malaria precautions

Depending on where in India you are traveling to, you may want to speak to your healthcare provider about taking a course of anti-malarial tablets. For instance, northeastern and eastern parts of India, as well as the city of Mangalore, have a higher malaria risk.

Always take precautions to avoid mosquito bites – this will also help you avoid dengue fever, a viral infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes to humans. Sleeping under a mosquito net, wearing long sleeves and trousers in light colors, and using a repellent and/or a plug-in mosquito killer with a high concentration of DEET (diethyltoluamide) is advisable.

4. Get insured

Travel insurance is essential for India. Depending on where you travel to, you may find public hospitals are poorly equipped. Additionally, most private clinics and hospitals require payment ahead of treatment. Make sure you are covered for emergency evacuation and also for any adventure activities you plan to get involved in.

If you’re unlucky enough to be a victim of crime, contact the local police station or dial 100 or 112, the national emergency number. You’ll need to get the police to file a report (a “FIR" – First Information Report) to make a claim on your travel insurance.

5. Book ahead for busy times and festivals

India can get very busy from November to February, so affordable accommodation is usually swamped in peak season. It’s a good idea to book ahead, either directly with the venues or via booking aggregator sites such as Agoda and MakeMyTrip .

Also, book train tickets in advance where possible , particularly for popular routes. Tickets can be booked (with a fair amount of hassle) via the government booking site IRCTC or more easily through local booking sites such as 12Go or Cleartrip .

6. Plan your comms before you travel

Many things in India (including train bookings or ordering food online) get easier if you have a local SIM card. Bring an unlocked phone from home (or pick one up locally) and get a phone shop to sign you up for a local pay-as-you-go SIM package on arrival. You’ll need to bring passport photos and photocopies of your passport ID pages to complete the application.

7. Check your lunar calendars

While India officially follows the Gregorian calendar, the major festivals for Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam and several other religions follow lunar calendars and fall on different dates from year to year. Always check festival dates before you book your trip (bearing in mind these dates are subject to change); the Indian government maintains a useful online list of public holidays .

8. Learn local etiquette

English is the  lingua franca in most metropolitan areas in India, and you’ll get away with polite hellos, goodbyes and thank yous in smaller towns too. However, if you’re traveling in northern India, you can say "namaste" (I bow to you) with your hands together in a prayer-like gesture in front of your chest. Similarly, when meeting Muslims in north India, you can say "salaam alaikum" (peace be with you) – the correct response is "alaikum salaam." Most of the time, it’s the effort that’s welcomed over pronunciation, so don’t be shy!

Shaking hands is a standard business greeting between men, but outside metropolitan regions, men and women rarely shake. Only ever use your right hand. The same rule applies when passing things to people – including money.

If you get invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift (flowers or sweets are always a safe bet) and remove your shoes before entering. It’s polite to eat and drink what you are offered, even if you don’t really fancy it.

9. Dress modestly

Depending on where in India you are, modesty is taken seriously – especially for women. Travelers of any gender will have an easier time if they wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their legs and arms. Swimwear is only appropriate for the beach – although it is not uncommon to see locals swim fully clothed. To fit in, consider investing in a kurta pyjama (a traditional garment resembling a long shirt and loose trousers for men) or a salwar kameez (a long shirt, loose trousers and scarf for women).

10. What to eat and how to eat it

Many religions in India have their own dietary rules. Muslims avoid pork, many Hindus avoid beef, and some Hindus and Buddhists are vegetarian or vegan. Many Jains are vegetarians who avoid some vegetables (most notably onions, garlic and potatoes) and who try to avoid causing harm to all living creatures. These rules mean vegan and vegetarian food is often easy to find in India.

Eating with your hands is the norm in many restaurants, particularly in parts of southern India. Take your cue from other patrons in the restaurant, and remember to eat with your right hand. Mix rice and curry into balls with your fingers and push it into your mouth with your thumb. Some thalis (plate meals consisting of multiple dishes served in tandem) are served not on a plate but on a washed and flash-heated banana leaf.

11. Haggling is not a game of life and death

Haggling for a fair price when buying things – in street stalls and open-air markets – is a way of life in India. Although it can sometimes be a frustrating experience, losing your temper is extremely bad form – if you can’t agree on a price with the vendor that you are both happy with, politely decline and shop somewhere else.

The rules of the game are as follows. The vendor will quote you a price that is more than the item is worth, then you’ll come back with a counter-offer, working up from there until you reach a mutually agreeable figure.

The “walking away” trick may bring a few last-minute adjustments, but before long, you’ll reach a threshold that the vendor won’t go below. Throwing in extra items may bring a discount on the overall cost. Many travelers prefer not to haggle in places where the money goes directly to artisans.

12. Respect etiquette at religious sites

Religion is taken very seriously in India, so it pays to know the rules and expectations for visits to temples, mosques, monasteries, gurdwaras (Sikh shrines), synagogues and churches. Always check if you are allowed to enter – some temples and mosques are closed to people who don’t follow the faith. Mosques may also be closed to visitors during prayers or on Fridays.

If asked to do so, remove your shoes before entering any religious building, and be prepared to cover your head with a scarf or shawl. Generally, always cover your legs and arms (a sarong can be handy as an emergency cover-all). Some temples also ban leather goods, and many religious sites do not allow photography.

Avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards a person or deity – this is considered disrespectful. The same goes for touching any person or effigy on the head. It is conventional to walk around Buddhist and Hindu shrines in a clockwise direction, in a ceremonial circuit known as a parikrama .

Making an offering or leaving a donation is often expected – locals always offer something, but be wary of people waving receipts showing huge donations. Giving something is appropriate, but don’t feel pressured into leaving large sums.

13. Giving alms is common but up to you

The giving of alms has a long history in India, and foreigners can expect to be approached regularly with requests for money. Whether you give or not is a personal choice, but many Indians give on a daily basis, particularly when visiting temples and mosques. Be aware that some requests for money will be scams, and you may be able to do more good by giving your time or cash to charity or aid organizations you’ve taken time to research, rather than handing out cash.

14. Respect local social attitudes

India has complex social rules about respect for elders. Depending on where you are traveling to, older people are often greeted with the honorific “auntie” or “uncle,” and the ending ji may also be added to someone’s name as a sign of respect.

Outside bigger cities, India can be quite conservative when it comes to interactions between unmarried men and women. Also, most parts of India are conservative when it comes to same-sex relationships. Whatever your sexuality, it’s best to avoid public displays of affection.

15. Street harassment is unfortunately common

Although harassment can happen anywhere, parts of India are constantly in the news owing to a lack of women’s safety. Beyond long, unwelcome stares and persistent attempts to start a conversation, more serious assaults are also a risk. Groping is common in crowds (particularly during festivals).

Exercise caution like you would anywhere else, and remain alert. Never get into a taxi or auto rickshaw containing anyone other than the driver, and avoid walking alone in quiet areas, particularly at night. Decline offers of food or drinks from strangers.

If traveling by public transport as a woman, it's best to seek out train carriages and designated seating reserved for women. Wearing a wedding ring (even if not married) and using dark sunglasses and headphones can buy you some privacy on public transport. If you are being hassled, drawing loud attention to the intrusion may encourage others to come to your aid.

16. Keep track of security situations in India

India has seen deadly attacks by separatist and Marxist groups and Kashmiri insurgents. Monitor the local news and be alert for suspicious behavior, particularly around major tourist sites. Always check the security situation before traveling to Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley in case of flare-ups of unrest. Strikes, demonstrations and protests are also best avoided, as violence is a risk. It goes without saying but in the event of trouble, obey local curfews and stay inside – your hotel is probably the safest place to be.

17. Take the altitude seriously when hiking

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk when traveling above 2500m (8202ft), which covers most of the Indian Himalayas . AMS can be fatal, so always ascend slowly and take rest days to allow your body to acclimate to significant elevation changes. If you begin to feel ill while hiking in the mountains, stop, and if your symptoms don’t improve, descend immediately.

18. Familiarize yourself with local rules and regulations

India has a few laws and regulations that visitors might be unfamiliar with. For instance, taking photographs of bridges, the periphery of military camps and border crossings – or flying drones over them – is considered a serious security issue.

When traveling by plane internally in India, you may be asked to surrender batteries from devices in your cabin bags. Smoking is banned in most public places, and a few states also have bans on the consumption of beef – killing or injuring a cow in a road accident, even accidentally, can lead to violent reprisals.

To avoid sticky situations, take the time to research where you’re going, and talk to staff at your hotel or hostel or your B&B host for advice on things to be aware of.

19. Steer clear of drugs

India may have a reputation amongst travelers as a place to push boundaries, but its drug laws are strict. Possessing even small amounts of drugs for personal use can lead to a prison sentence.

Some religious groups are permitted to consume marijuana for ceremonial purposes, but that often doesn’t extend to tourists. You can, however, find bhaang – a marijuana mixture made with the leaves (rather than the bud) of the cannabis plant – at government-approved bhaang shops.

20. Avoid the tap water

The tap water in India is not potable. Drinking or brushing your teeth with it can be a fast track to stomach troubles – the most common illness tourists experience in India. Stick to purified or bottled water (or even better, purify your own to avoid contributing to India’s plastic waste mountain).

The water rule extends to ice (be wary of ice in drinks and ice cream) and to uncooked foods, particularly salads and dishes such as coriander chutneys, which may have been washed with contaminated water. When eating fruit, stick to things you can peel or wash thoroughly yourself, and be cautious of freshly prepared juices. Hot drinks are generally fine, so drink your fill of chai (milky tea, often spiced and sweet).

21. Watch local news to keep track of natural disasters

Some geographical areas in India are prone to natural disasters, and the risk is higher in certain seasons. Hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh, for instance, often see flash flooding and landslides during the monsoon. Be alert to signs of natural disasters and keep an eye on the local news so you know which areas to avoid. Follow the Indian Meteorological Department’s website as well as their social media handle for timely updates.

If you are caught up in a natural disaster, follow the advice of emergency workers and try to leave the area quickly.

22. Spot the scams

India has a reputation for scams designed to separate tourists from their money, and touts and confidence tricksters can often be found where tourists gather. Get tourist information and make bookings at official offices, rather than “tourist offices” you have been led to by people offering unsolicited help.

If anyone steers you to a hotel, shop or other establishment without you asking, they may be angling for a commission, which will be added to the price you pay. Be dubious of claims that the place you want to go is “closed” – always check yourself to be sure.

Exercise common sense and be wary of deals that sound too good to be true – for example, the gem scam, where travelers are tricked into buying worthless gems to “sell at a profit back home.”

This article was first published Mar 19, 2022 and updated Dec 15, 2023.

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8 Stunning Places Where You Can Stay For Free In India & Enjoy A Budget Trip

Staying in picturesque destinations do not always require shelling out a huge chunk of money. In India, you can take a halt in the lap of the mountains, in the heart of a lush green forest or right by the sea for absolutely free or by paying a little amount. India is home to some beautiful ashrams, yoga retreats and similar establishments in stunning locations that won’t really charge you for staying. In most of these places, your stay will be coupled with a noble purpose. Here is a list of 8 such places.

1. Isha Foundation

Isha Foundation is around 40 kilometres from Coimbatore and sits on the foothills of the Velliangiri mountains. This is the spiritual centre of Sadhguru which houses the magnificent statue of Adiyogi Shiva. If you are willing to volunteer at the centre, you can stay in its dormitory for free.

Website | Here

2. Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Himachal Pradesh

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara lets guests stay for free in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh and also offers free parking and food. The Gurudwara is set beside the gushing Parvati River also has special heated rooms which can be availed on request. You can stay in the Gurudwara for as long as you want.

3. Anandashram, Kerala

Known as the Abode of Bliss, this ashram is nestled in the echoing greenery of Kerala. You can stay here for free. Ashram-cooked food, low on spices, will be served three times a day. Just in a couple of days, Anandashram will offer profound rejuvenation to your body and soul.

Website | Here 

Also Read:  Delhi Government Will Arrange Free Ayodhya Travel For Its Senior Citizens

4. Geeta Bhawan, Rishikesh

Located right on the banks of the holy Ganga, Geeta Bhawan offers free food and accommodation to visitors. The ashram has around 1000 rooms for guests from all over the world. Meditation sessions also take place in the ashram to help you attain calmness and peace of mind.

5. Govind Ghat Gurudwara, Uttarakhand

This gurudwara is located on the bank of the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. It offers free accommodation to trekkers, pilgrims and other visitors. The gurudwara offers breathtaking views of the river and the mountains.

6. Nyingmapa Monastery, Himachal Pradesh

This monastery is set in the Himachali town Rewalsar and the Rewalsar Lake flows near it. You can stay at this gorgeous monastery amid the towering mountains at ₹200-₹300 per night. You can also hoard antique pieces from the local market nearby.

7. Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Sarnath

This historic monastery in Uttar Pradesh offers overnight stays at prices as low as ₹50. It houses a marvellous statue of Sakyamuni, a form of Lord Buddha. The monastery is maintained by Lhadhan Chotrul Monlam Chenmo Trust.

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8. Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram, Chennai

Volunteer in the humanitarian programmes of Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram, Chennai and stay in the establishment for any number of days you wish to. The ashram has branches in other parts of India too.

Website | Here  

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Volunteer in India

Home | Written by Brina | Updated 3rd May 2024.

F or a volunteer experience involving all of the senses, look no further than India. A land of cows, yoga , chai, and chutney, India’s vibrance will leave a lifelong imprint upon you.

With its famous festivals like Holi and Diwali , India is also rich in culture and history. It’s no wonder that many people say that it’s a place like nowhere else.

Though the subcontinent is vast, it offers something for every kind of traveler. We want you to have the best possible experience volunteering in India, so we’ve put together a guide that will help lead you through the process.

Table of contents

Why volunteer in india.

Types of volunteering opportunities.

Who should volunteer in India?

The best time to visit.

Cultural and linguistic expectations.

Volunteer skills needed in India.

Is it safe to volunteer in India?

When to start planning.

Do I need a visa to volunteer in India?

Applying to volunteer in India.

Building your profile.

Writing your volunteer application.

Getting there and backup plans.

Explore available opportunities.

India is known for its stunning mausoleums and culinary delights. We believe it’s a stellar country for helpers, and here’s why:

Captivating nature - Whether you want to catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Himalayas, dip your toes in the Arabian sea, or camp out with camels in the desert, India has it all.

The cost of living in India is incredibly low. It’s an ideal country to visit on a budget .

India is known for its generosity. Locals are very kind to foreigners , making it easy to feel welcome.

Diversity - With 29 states, 122 major languages, and over 1.2 billion people, India is a melting pot of its own . 

Cuisine - Indian food is packed with flavor and loaded with an array of spices. Vegetarianism is practiced widely throughout the country, making it a great choice for travelers who don’t eat meat. 

Types of volunteering opportunities

There is a multitude of projects from which to choose. Here are some of the main categories:

Teaching English & TEFL in India - Opportunities include assisting in schools, volunteering with children in orphanages, and teaching English to young students.

Hospitality - Opportunities involve working reception at hostels, helping to set up a backpacker hostel, assisting with marketing operations at an eco lodge, and teaching yoga at a hostel.

Social Issues and NGOs - Opportunities include working with women and children in slums, helping charities, and interning with NGOs.

Farming - Opportunities involve learning about and helping with organic farming practices, as well as partaking in permaculture projects.

Anyone with a high level of motivation would make a great volunteer in India. If you’re open-minded, willing to adapt, and ready to be challenged , you’ll do just fine.

The great thing is, many of our projects allow you to utilize the skills and passions you already have. If you love children, why not opt to teach English in one of the schools? Enjoy raising awareness about important causes? Help out at one of the NGOs! Love working with your hands? Choose one of the farm projects!

The best time to visit

Between late October and March, most of India experiences cooler, drier, and sunnier weather, making it the optimal time to visit. If you’re headed to one of the northern states, it can be quite chilly during this time, so bear that in mind. The monsoon season runs from June to September.

Cultural and linguistic expectations

India is a conservative country. Women should wear modest clothing that covers their legs and shoulders. Everyone should bring lighter, breathable fabrics, such as cotton. You may also want to purchase traditional Indian clothing when you arrive, such as a salwar kameez (women) or a kurta (men).

Prior to entering someone’s home, always remove your shoes (unless instructed otherwise). Shoes should also never be worn in temples.

Many Indians eat using their hands. When touching another individual, always use your right hand, as the left hand is considered impure. Though western toilets are becoming more common, squat toilets are still the norm in most households and public places.

Hindi and English are India’s official languages. In larger cities, it’s common to come across English speakers, but in rural areas, English is more limited. While slow and simple communication usually suffices and can overcome language barriers, it can be helpful to learn some basic phrases. Do note that Hindi is spoken primarily in the northern part of the country. 

Volunteer skills needed in India

There isn’t a specific skill in high demand, only a desire to put forth your best efforts .

India is generally a safe country. The biggest issues are scams and pickpocketing, particularly in congested metropolitan areas and tourist hubs. Be sure to keep your valuables in a secure place. Always watch where you’re walking and look out for cars, as infrastructure in certain areas is still developing, and traffic laws are lax.

We recommend obtaining travel insurance before your trip. This will serve as a safety net and allow for peace of mind in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Our preferred insurance partner is SafetyWing.

When to start planning

It’s best to begin planning your trip at least 3-4 months in advance. This will allow you plenty of time to find the right host , book your flight, gather your belongings, and sort out other logistics of your trip.

Yes. All foreign nationals visiting India must have a visa to enter the country. (Those from the Maldives, however, may enter visa-free for up to 90 days).

Depending on your nationality, you can apply for either a regular paper visa or an e-Visa. The exception lies for those from Japan, South Korea, or the UAE, who can obtain a visa on arrival. An e-Visa is good for up to 1 year upon arrival, and each stay must not exceed 90 days. If you are from Canada, Japan, the U.K., or the U.S., you may stay for 180 days. The Government of India’s visa website has more information regarding visa applications and specifics.

All of our volunteer opportunities at HelpStay fall under the tourist visa category .

Applying to volunteer in India

As a non-member, you can read up on various work exchange projects in India. Once you’ve read up on all of the information, you can become a member , which will allow you to begin planning your stay.

The membership fee enables you to directly message hosts, using our secure messaging system.

Building your profile

Once you’ve become a member, you can also start to complete the “About You” section of your dashboard. Be sure to include these in your profile:

Your photo.

Your nationality.

Where you want to go.

When you plan to travel.

Project types that are of interest to you.

Information about you— This is where you play up your best talents and attributes to make a great impression!

As soon as all of these fields are complete, you may message hosts. 

Writing your volunteer application

Your messages with potential hosts are important, and you will want to present yourself in the best light. Be respectful, as this will go a long way.

Here are some pointers on how to make your application shine:

Thoroughly read the host listing so you have a clear idea of what is expected.

Be clear about how long you hope to stay. Mention what dates you’re available, and whether or not they’re flexible.

Express why you want this particular host’s project.

Say what other kinds of activities and excursions you hope to do when you’re not helping with the project.

Lay out what special talents or skills you have that make you a great fit for this particular project. This will be very helpful for the host!

List any dietary restrictions you may have.

Getting there and backup plans

After you’ve found the right host, you can book your flight to India. India is well-connected by air travel , making it easy to fly into whichever city is nearest to your destination. There is also an extensive railway system throughout the country, allowing travelers to move within India more easily. Additionally, local buses and rickshaws can help you get from place to place locally.

As with any major thing in life, it’s always wise to have a plan B. In our volunteer abroad guide , we highlight the importance of having a backup plan. 

Explore available opportunities

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India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I’ve never been to India. I know. Crazy, right? It’s not that I don’t want to go but life has just always gotten in the way. However, India is a place a lot of people visit and, since I can’t write about it, I want to bring in someone who can: my friend Mariellen Ward. She’d a travel writer who has been going to India since 2005 and runs the website Breathedreamgo . We’ve known each other since 2010. Today, she’s going to share some tips on how to visit India for first-time visitors.

I will never forget my first time visiting India. My first car trip in Delhi felt like a roller-coaster ride. Cars and trucks of every size, overloaded bicycles and motorcycles, and even the occasional bullock cart, seemed to be coming at me from every direction. No one was paying any attention to lanes or the rules of the road. Vehicles were driving the wrong way. I couldn’t make sense of what was happening.

I had heard about the “sensory overload” travelers feel in India, and now I was experiencing it. It was exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. And just a taste of things to come.

I spent six months crisscrossing the subcontinent on my first trip, back in 2005 and was often overwhelmed by the huge crowds, the foreign traditions, the perplexing bureaucracy, the mind-boggling complexity, and the bewildering culture shock.

These things combined make India a challenging — though very exciting and rewarding —destination.

However, if you read and follow these travel tips for first-time visitors, they could help smooth out some of the more disorienting bumps.

1. Slow down

It takes time and some know-how to successfully navigate in India. This is not a place for hurried travel. Don’t try and see as much as you can; that is not the right approach. It’s tiring to travel in India, and the object should be to experience it, not to check things off a list.

As a general rule, for every two weeks you are in India, pick one region. For a one-month trip, just pick two regions — say, two weeks in Rajasthan and two weeks in Kerala . You can even sit in one place and still not miss anything. No matter what, if you are in India, you will experience India.

2. Adjust your attitude

Likewise, accept that things will not go as planned. Cultivate the philosophy that things happen the way they are supposed to, not the way they are planned. This attitude can lead to the most marvelous adventures.

3. Be careful who you trust

Having said that it’s a good idea to be open, a healthy level of skepticism also comes in really handy in India. There are many con men there, especially in the travel and hospitality sector. They have a sixth sense for first-time visitors and will try and take advantage.

So, learn the prices by asking locals and other travelers before negotiating with auto-rickshaw drivers and market vendors. Don’t believe drivers — or random people you come across at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions — who tell you things such as your hotel burned down, or the train you want was canceled.

Often, an opportunity to make money off of you will spur creative tactics, and some of these scams can easily catch you off guard. Once, I was looking for a new iPhone case and the vendor showed me one and told me it was made by Apple. But a close look revealed four spelling mistakes in one short sentence engraved inside the case.

4. Practice safe travel

There are also anecdotal reports of women being molested, especially in busy, crowded places. Follow basic precautions and safe travel strategies, and use common sense in India.

Here are several safety travel tips (please read my top tips for women traveling in India for more details):

• Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch.
• Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels.
• Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only.
• Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location.
• Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage.
• Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363.

5. Try a small group tour

For your first time in India, try taking a small group or custom tour to help you get your feet wet. My company, India for Beginners , was founded to help women travel safely and well in India. We offer a few small group tours, but we specialize in creating custom tours and providing a high level of personal service, such as meeting travelers at the airport and assigning a tour manager who is available 24/7. We hold your hand in India!

6. Take the train

Taking a train in India is a great experience and should not be missed. However, you need some basic knowledge about the classes and the trains. You may not want to dive into sleeper class or general class immediately; I would recommend 2AC (second class with air conditioning) or CC (chair car). Or even 1AC (first class with air conditioning) or EC (executive chair car).

Shatabdi and Rajdhani trains are among the best in India, so try and book one of these. Overnight trains can be a problem because they don’t clean the toilets at night, so keep that in mind when you book.

7. Eat the food

India is one of the world’s great culinary destinations, and first-time visitors should not shy away from trying all the delicious cuisine on offer, even street food. Some of the famous Indian items you shouldn’t miss are masala chai, sweet lassi, biryani, pakoras, dosas, and sweets such as gulab jamun and kheer.

It’s hard to avoid getting sick in India, though, because you never know when a tainted item will cross your plate. It could be at a street stall or a five-star restaurant. However, you can reduce the chances of getting sick by following these basic rules:

• Drink filtered or bottled water only.
• Watch for undistilled water in ice or sauces.
• Avoid salad and other raw food unless you can peel it (such as an orange or banana).
• Eat only food that is freshly cooked.
• Look for busy stalls and restaurants with high turnover.

8. Get a local SIM card

Everything in India runs on WhatsApp, one-time password (OTP) verification, and text messages. Because of this, you need a local number. To do so, get a local SIM at the airport when you arrive. Still, you may have trouble paying for things online with a foreign credit card, as India requires OTP verification, and getting registered with Indian Railways so you buy train tickets online is nearly impossible.

9. Remember where you are

For example, unless you’re on the beach in Goa, it’s wise to wear modest clothing in India . Long, loose, and flowing are key for dressing for the climate and the culture.

It’s also best to be very respectful, especially with regard to the myriad religions. And be aware that genders relate differently in India, and overfriendliness can be misconstrued. Be polite, but with strangers, and especially those working in the hospitality sector, it’s usually best to dial back effusive friendliness.

10. Follow the seasons

Weather and the season matter in India. It’s incredibly hot almost everywhere in May and June, the monsoon season is July to August, and it’s surprisingly cold in north India in winter, December to February. Do some research and find out the best places to visit in India by season .

So, when it’s cold in north India, head down to tropical Kerala or Goa and hit the beach. In the heat of summer, check out Ladakh, a high desert plateau that sometimes seems otherworldly. Note: Fall is festival season, so you can experience Durga Puja in Kolkata, Diwali in Jaipur, or the Camel Fair in Pushkar.

11. Visit attractions in the morning

(However, this rule does not apply to shopping. Stores, and even restaurants, tend not to open until 10 or even 11 am. Urban Indians tend to do everything late. Breakfast and lunch are late, and dinner can be very late indeed.)

12. Head into the countryside

You can go trekking in the mountains, take a tiger safari , visit one of the many national parks, camp out overnight on a sand dune in Rajasthan, or take a boat cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

And don’t forget the rural areas. Most Indians still live in villages. It’s really worthwhile to meander through the quaint villages of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, or Uttarakhand.

India is not an easy place to travel. It’s not a relaxing vacation destination. It is, though, an experience — often a life-changing experience. Start by doing research, read books about India , watch movies about the country, learn about the cultures and various destinations, and get ready for a transformative travel experience.

Like many before you — from The Beatles to Steve Jobs to Elizabeth Gilbert — you may just fall in love with the place. As writer Rumer Godden said, “Once you have felt the dust of India, you will never be free of it.”

Mariellen Ward fell in love with India, with travel, and with travel blogging on her first trip to the country in 2005. She has spent more than seven years of the last 18 in India, and now lives there. Though Canadian by birth, Mariellen considers India to be her “soul culture.” With her travel blog, Breathedreamgo , she tries to encourage and help other female travelers to go after their dreams. And her custom tour company, India for Beginners , is dedicated to helping women travel safely and well in India.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Travel For Free: The Ultimate Guide

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Travel For Free

Travel For Free: Who wouldn’t love to embark on adventures without worrying about the cost? The idea of “travel for free” may sound like a fantasy. Still, with some savvy strategies and a bit of creativity, it’s entirely possible to explore the world without breaking the bank.

From leveraging loyalty programs to volunteering abroad, there are numerous ways to turn your wanderlust dreams into reality without spending a dime.

In this article, we’ll delve into some tips and tricks for travelling for free, uncovering the secrets to experiencing the world on a budget.

Travel For Free with Loyalty Programs

Travel hacking involves utilizing loyalty programs, credit card rewards, and airline miles to score free flights, hotel stays, and other perks.

By strategically signing up for credit cards with generous sign-up bonuses and maximizing your spending to earn points, you can accumulate enough rewards to cover the cost of your travels.

Websites and forums dedicated to travel hacking offer valuable insights and tips on how to navigate the world of rewards programs effectively.

The American Express Travel Platinum Card is widely hailed as the ultimate travel credit card for its exceptional value proposition. Here’s why:

• Luxury Travel Benefits: Enjoy exclusive perks like airport lounge access, elite hotel status, and fine dining privileges.
• Generous Rewards: Earn points quickly on travel spending, redeemable for flights, hotels, and more.
• Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Gain peace of mind with extensive coverage for trip cancellations, lost luggage, and medical emergencies.
• Global Acceptance: Accepted worldwide, ensuring convenience for international travelers.
• Personalized Concierge Service: Get assistance with travel arrangements, dining reservations, and event tickets.
• Exclusive Events and Offers: Access VIP events and enjoy promotions on travel purchases.
• Premium Perks: Receive statement credits, complimentary memberships, and access to exclusive experiences.

For travelers seeking unmatched luxury, rewards, and convenience, the American Express Travel Platinum Card delivers unbeatable value.

Volunteering (The Best Way To Travel For Free)

Volunteering abroad not only allows you to give back to communities in need but also provides opportunities for immersive cultural experiences at no cost.

Organizations such as Workaway , WorldPackers , VolunteerYatra and HelpX connect travellers with host families and projects around the world in exchange for accommodation and meals.

Whether you’re teaching English in Asia or assisting with conservation efforts in Africa, volunteering offers a unique way to travel while making a positive impact.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is are excellent option for budget-conscious travellers seeking free accommodation. Couchsurfing enables travellers to connect with hosts who offer up their couches or spare rooms at no cost, fostering cultural exchange and meaningful connections along the way.

Travel Off-Season

Travelling during off-peak seasons can lead to significant cost savings on flights, accommodations, and activities. Destinations that experience a lull in tourism during certain times of the year often offer discounted rates and promotions to attract visitors. By being flexible with your travel dates and choosing less popular times to visit, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy a more authentic travel experience with fewer crowds.

Content Creation for Travel Organizations

One lesser-known but effective way to travel for free is by offering your skills in content creation to travel organizations, homestays, hostels, and hotels in exchange for accommodations and other perks. In today’s digital age, compelling content is in high demand, and many businesses in the travel industry are eager to collaborate with content creators to showcase their offerings to a broader audience.

Blogging and Writing:

If you have a knack for storytelling and a way with words, consider pitching articles and blog posts to travel publications, websites, and travel companies. Many hotels, resorts, and tourism boards are open to hosting travel writers and bloggers in exchange for coverage on their platforms. By crafting engaging content that highlights the unique features and experiences offered by your host, you can secure complimentary stays and even additional perks such as meals, activities, and transportation.

Photography and Videography:

Stunning visuals are essential for capturing the essence of a destination and enticing potential travellers. If you’re a talented photographer or videographer, reach out to hotels, resorts, and tour operators to offer your services in exchange for complimentary accommodations and experiences. By creating high-quality visual content that showcases the beauty and allure of your host’s offerings, you can add value to their marketing efforts while enjoying free stays and access to exclusive experiences.

Social Media Influencing:

In today’s social media-driven world, influencers wield significant influence over their followers’ travel decisions. If you have a sizable following on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok, leverage your influence to strike partnerships with travel brands and businesses. Many hotels, resorts, and tourism boards are willing to collaborate with influencers by providing complimentary stays, meals, and experiences in exchange for exposure to their audience. By creating engaging and authentic content that resonates with your followers, you can forge mutually beneficial partnerships that allow you to travel for free while promoting your host’s offerings.

Collaborate with Homestays and Hostels:

In addition to hotels and resorts, homestays and hostels are also open to collaborating with content creators. These budget-friendly accommodations often cater to adventurous travellers seeking authentic experiences and local insights. By offering to create content for homestays and hostels in exchange for free stays, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, forge meaningful connections with your hosts, and share your experiences with your audience.

Whether you’re a talented writer, photographer, videographer, or social media influencer, there are numerous opportunities to exchange your creative services for free stays and travel experiences.

Utilize Travel Rewards Portals

When it comes to maximizing your travel rewards and earning cashback on your bookings, utilizing travel rewards portals can be a game-changer.

One such portal worth mentioning is TravelPayouts, a comprehensive affiliate network that partners with airlines, hotels, online travel agencies, and other travel-related businesses to offer attractive commissions and rewards to users.

TravelPayouts aggregates offers from various travel companies, allowing users to compare prices and earn cashback or commissions on their bookings. Whether you’re booking flights, hotels, rental cars, or tours, TravelPayouts provides a one-stop platform for accessing exclusive deals and earning rewards on your travel expenses.

Unlocking the Secrets to Traveling for Free (The ASP Podcast)

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the art of travelling for free, exploring the various strategies and techniques for exploring the world on a budget. From travel hacking to volunteering abroad, we share insider tips and firsthand experiences to help you make the most of your travels without breaking the bank. Tune in to learn how to unlock the secrets to travelling for free and embark on your next adventure without spending a dime.

In conclusion, travelling for free is not just a pipe dream—it’s a realistic possibility for those willing to think outside the box and get creative with their approach to travel. By leveraging loyalty programs, volunteering abroad, and exploring alternative accommodation options, you can experience the joys of travel without the hefty price tag. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and set off on a journey to explore the world without spending a penny.

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9 Places To Stay For Free In India & Enjoy A Budget Trip

Staying in picturesque destinations does not always require shelling out a huge chunk of money. In India, you can take a halt in the lap of the mountains, in the heart of a lush green forest or right by the sea for absolutely free or by paying a little amount. India is home to some beautiful ashrams, yoga retreats and similar establishments in astonishing locations that won’t really charge you for staying. In most of these places, your stay will be coupled with a noble purpose. Here is a list of 9 such places.

Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Sarnath

It is Constructed in the year 1955. It is one of the highly revered pilgrimage sites in Sarnath. Located close to the main market, this popular Buddhist temple in Sarnath is presently under the administration of Lhadhan Chotrul Monlam Chenmo Trust. Built-in a traditional Tibetan architectural design, the temple includes some striking features. The entrance of the temple is guarded and beautifully adorned with intricate carvings of two lions. As you enter the temple, there you can see a large open compound which houses a light pink stupa. It is said that the stupa is built by Tibetans to commemorate and show their gratitude to the Indian Government for giving asylum to Dalai Lama. Not just this, the stupa was also built to pay homage to all those people who sacrificed their lives during the Tibetan Independence Movement.

Along with that, the architecture of this popular Buddhist pilgrimage site in Sarnath also includes stunning frescoes of Buddhist deities on the wall of the temple. Inside the temple complex, there is a large image of Sakyamuni Buddha in a resting position. The temple is also adorned with Tibetan Buddhist paintings on the walls and ceilings which are one of the key features. Like most Buddhist shrines, Tibetan Temple also includes prayer wheels. On rotating these wheels in the clockwise direction, the paper scrolls release the sacred chants written on them. On a whole, Tibetan Temple is one of the must-visit places in Sarnath for people of all ages and communities as the place offers a true essence of spirituality, which is a must in today’s chaotic world.

Geeta Bhawan, Rishikesh

Geeta Bhawan is a large complex located at the banks of the holy river Ganga in Swargashram, Rishikesh. The huge complex of Geeta Bhawan has several discourse halls and over 1000 rooms for the comfortable stay of devotees free of cost. Geeta Bhawan is a major place for devotees from far away places as they get free stay during their holy dip in the river Ganga by listening to discourses and meditation.

The Bhawan, at once, can accommodate more than 2000 devotees and provides them with a free stay. Although the Bhawan remains crowded round the year, the best time to visit is during summer for the day-long Satsang programmes organized by the Management.

Isha Foundation, Coimbatore

Isha Foundation is a nonprofit, spiritual organisation founded in 1992 near Coimbatore, India, by Jaggi Vasudev. It hosts the Isha Yoga Centre, which offers yoga programs under the name Isha Yoga. The foundation is run “almost entirely” by volunteers. The word isha means “the formless divine”.

It is around 40 kilometres from Coimbatore and sits on the foothills of the Velliangiri mountains. This is the spiritual centre of Sadhguru which houses the magnificent statue of Adiyogi Shiva. If you are willing to volunteer at the centre, you can stay in its dormitory for free.

Govind Ghat Gurudwara, Uttarakhand

This gurudwara is located on the bank of the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. It offers free accommodation to trekkers, pilgrims and other visitors. The gurudwara offers breathtaking views of the river and the mountains.

Gurdwara Gobind Ghat is Situated at an altitude of 1828 m, on the west bank of the river Alaknanda, Gobind Ghat is the place where the motorable road for the journey to Hemkunt ends. A number of vehicles can be seen parked as one descends to the level of the Gurdwara. Pilgrims usually halt here for the night before continuing their journey on foot or on mules. Previously known as Saymtay, Gobind Ghat is basically a hamlet of shops and small inns and hotels. The shops are varied -ranging from eating places to tea stalls to shops selling items associated with the visit to Hemkunt. These include items which are necessary for the journey ahead like walking sticks, plastic raincoats, sturdy shoes, caps, sarcomas (scarves tied on the heads like bandas) and even clothing items to ward off the cold.

Besides these, the shops sell souvenirs in the form of photographs and posters of Hemkunt Sahib, religious books, audio cassettes etc. It is through a line of such a colourful array of stalls and shops that the Gurdwara at Gobind Ghat can be approached.

Sevadars at the entrance of Gurdwara Gobind Ghat. Winding through the shops, the cobbled path leads to the Gurdwara complex which is spread along both its sides. Past the Gurdwara, one reaches the suspension bridge that spans the river Alaknanda. Colourful flags flutter atop the brightly painted corrugated steel roofs that rise above the white of the buildings. Although the Gurdwara is a trifle overshadowed by the surrounding buildings, on the whole, the air is one religious festivity. The buildings surrounding the Gurdwara are mostly rest houses where the pilgrims are accommodated without any cost or prejudice.

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Himachal Pradesh

Due to Raghunathjee and Gurudawara, Manikaran is a favourite resort for pilgrims for Hindus and Sikhs. According to an ancient legend, Manikaran is also connected with Lord Shiva and his divine consort Parvati. Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara lets guests stay for free in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh and also offers free parking and food. The Gurudwara is set beside the gushing Parvati River and also has especially heated rooms which can be availed on request. You can stay in the Gurudwara for as long as you want.

Anandashram, Kerala

Anandashram is a spiritual retreat located in Kanhangad, a city and a municipality in Kasaragod district in the Indian state of Kerala. Known as the Abode of Bliss, this ashram is nestled in the echoing greenery of Kerala. You can stay here for free. Ashram-cooked food, low on spices, will be served three times a day. Just in a couple of days, Anandashram will offer profound rejuvenation to your body and soul.

Anandashram is near Mangalore, at the northern end of Kerala. It’s an abode of peace. Stay there for a few days and your body and mind will be rejuvenated. Divine chanting of the Hindu god Ram’s name goes on throughout the day. Americans and Europeans frequent the ashram. Ashram people never ask for contributions. The ashram atmosphere has some soothing quality and the divine feeling will linger in your mind for a long time.

Nyingmapa Monastery, Himachal Pradesh

Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa is a Buddhist monastery located in Manali and one of the most famous monasteries situated in north India. Its religious significance is highly important for devotees, but tourists are also drawn to its architectural beauty and tranquillity in the environment. The most prominent feature of Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple is the enormous statue or idol of Sakyamuni in a sitting or meditative posture. Right from the entrance, the divine and tranquil vibe of the monastery can be felt. The icon, statues and colourful paintings on the walls add to the beauty of the monastery. A few minutes of meditation is highly advisable to get a glimpse into the peaceful lives of Buddhist monks.

Located very close to the Mall road in Manali, the contrast in the hustle and bustle of the Mall road and the serenity of Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple is often spoken about. Anyone who wants to calm their mind is welcome into the monastery. In fact, the management has even taken efforts and put signs to direct tourists in the right direction around the Stupas without being confused or clueless about it. It is one of the best attractions in Manali to observe Buddhist Monks go about their prayer services and daily activities. Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple is a perfect place to get a glimpse into the spiritual importance of Buddhism and must be visited while exploring Manali.

Gurudwara Bhai Mohkam Singh Ji, Dwarka, Gujarat

The Gurudwara offers free accommodation and food in Langar to pilgrims and other visitors. The premises is very neat and clean so if you are travelling around Dwarka in Gujarat, the gurudwara can be a perfect place to spend the night.

Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram, Chennai

Volunteer in the humanitarian programmes of Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram, Chennai and stay in the establishment for any number of days you wish to. The ashram has branches in other parts of India too.

I Hope, this information about travel tips will help you with a budgeted trip to India. Comment for better suggestions/ information as an addition to this blog.

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Considering travelling to volunteer in India? Volunteer opportunities in India can include volunteering in an orphanage, educational projects, animal care, spreading environmental awareness, teaching English, farm helping or volunteering with a benevolent cause.

Check out our guide to volunteering in India , we show you how to get the foundations in place so you can start applying with confidence to go volunteering in India.

How HelpStay works? Volunteer in India for free and you’ll get to see India while enjoying a low cost work away adventure with HelpStay. HelpStay is a skills-based volunteering platform that connects travellers with hosts of great projects around the world. The platform makes travelling meaningful and affordable by allowing helpers to exchange work for accommodation. The host opportunities featured on the site have been vetted and reviewed by the HelpStay staff. This keeps helpers safe and the community strong.

Browse Opportunities: Helpers can browse the profiles of different hosts by location or type of help activity. They’ll see photos and information on what type of help activity is being sought and how many hours they can expect to put in for their stay. If a helper finds a hosting opportunity that they’re interested in, they can send the host a message directly. The message should include some information about the helper and why they think they’ll be a good fit.

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There's no shortage of India volunteer opportunities, but many involve agencies that require volunteers to pay high fees (thousands of dollars) for the experience. The fees cover administration, accommodation, and food but it can work out a lot cheaper if you deal directly with the volunteer organizations themselves. Some organizations and hosts even provide board, so it works out very inexpensive indeed.

The following opportunities are either free, or there's a minimal cost involved. And, there's a wide range of opportunities to suit everyone!

WWOOFing in India

WWOOFing (Willing Workers on Organic Farms), is a worldwide concept that's been steadily gaining popularity in India. The number of hosts has grown from just a few in 2000, to over 100. They include tea estates, coffee estates, and vegan agricultural communities. It's a great way to learn as well as experience life in the Indian countryside. Food and accommodations are provided. To join, there's a membership fee of $40 for singles or $60 for couples, for 12 months.

WorldPackers

Worldpackers.com is a popular worldwide community platform that connects verified hosts with travelers who are looking to exchange their skills in return for somewhere to stay. There are plentiful opportunities in India, many of which are at new backpacker hostels across the country. The work includes social media, photography, arts and music, web development, administration and reception. Other opportunities include social work, child care, teaching, and farming. An annual membership fee of $49 is applicable.

HelpX is short for Help Exchange. It's an online bulletin board where hosts all around the world put up notices for help required. The great thing about HelpX is the diversity of India volunteer opportunities on offer. You can do everything from helping run guest houses to teaching English, and working on farms.  Accommodations, and at least one meal (often all), are provided to volunteers free of cost. You'll need to sign up to the website, and pay a membership fee, to be able to contact the listed hosts though.

Ecosphere Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

If you'd like to combine volunteering with travel to a remote high-altitude alpine region, Spiti in Himachal Pradesh , Ecosphere Spiti offers opportunities to help local communities there. You can participate in construction of much-needed facilities, such as greenhouses for growing vegetables and structures for passive solar heating. If construction isn't your thing, another option is to assist the villagers with their daily activities.

Rural Organization for Social Elevation, Uttarakhand

Located in Kanda, a village near Bageshwar in Uttarakhand , the grassroots Rural Organization for Social Elevation (R.O.S.E.) works in the area of community development. They run projects all year round, for people who want to experience life in rural India and the foothills of the Himalayas. The activities involve teaching at a local school, farming, and construction. Volunteers live with a local family and get to learn about culture while enjoying nature.

Pyunli, Uttarakhand

Pyunli is a small NGO in Gauchar, high up in the Chamoli district of mountainous Uttarakhand, on the way to Badrinath . It aims to bring about meaningful changes to society through empowerment of women and education of children. The NGO is named after a very popular flower in the region's culture, which symbolizes a beautiful woman who lived in the forest. Volunteers can teach the local kids various things (such as English, music, drama, yoga) and also participate in organic farming.

Sadhana Village, Maharashtra

Sadhana Villiage is a residential care center for intellectually disabled and underprivileged adults. It's located in a village 30 kilometers from Pune (around four hours from Mumbai), and has been taking volunteers since 1995. The organization's focus is on education. Volunteers assist in workshops, cultural activities, and community development projects for women and children. Meals and accommodation are provided, but donations are appreciated as the organization doesn't receive government funding.

Salaam Baalak Trust, Delhi

The Salaam Baalak Trust, conveniently located in Delhi's backpacker Paharganj area, provides shelter, food, and support to the city's homeless street children. Another inspiring initiative is its City Walk program -- tours along the back streets of Delhi led by children who have trained as guides. The diverse opportunities for volunteers include education, creative expression, computing, marketing, and health care. Internships are also offered. The organization has a conveniently located flat for volunteers to live in at a minimal cost.

Ladli, Jaipur

Ladli, meaning "loving girl", is a small organization that provides vocational training for approximately 100 abused, orphaned, and destitute street children. It's located in Jaipur , Rajasthan. Volunteers work in child care, teach English, and lead children's activities. The organization doesn't charge any fees, but volunteers need to pay for their own accommodations and food. There are usually around three or four volunteers from around the world working there at a time. Some are there for a week, others stay for a year.

Mandore Project, Jodhpur

The Mandore Guest House in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is an excellent option for voluntourism. This bright and groovy guesthouse is run by a family who also operate the Marwar Medical & Relief Society -- a non-profit organization that's adopted local villages to help improve their infrastructure and education. Guests can join its volunteer programs for two weeks or more, mainly helping children with their English skills. This opportunity will particularly appeal to those who don't want to step too far out of their comfort zones (such as staying in remote rural areas in Indian-style accommodations) to volunteer.

Seva Mandir, Udaipur

Seva Mandir is located in the white city of Udaipur , in Rajasthan. It's a large and well established organization that's been doing development work in rural Rajasthan for over forty years. Volunteers get to work on projects that match their experience and interests. Activities include assisting with day-to-day operations, conducting research, undertaking independent assignments, and developing training modules. Guest houses/dormitories, fully furnished and with shared kitchens, are provided for volunteers. Volunteers are responsible for all their meals.

Joe Homan Charity, Tamil Nadu

UK citizen Joe Homan founded this charity in 1965 as a center for destitute boys, just south of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. He quit his teaching job and relocated to India after being shocked by the suffering of children there. The charity has grown considerably over the subsequent years to include seven residential homes for boys in south India, as well as similar projects for girls and younger children. Volunteers will be involved in the running of the residential projects and the children's daily activities. An interview is required to be accepted. Simple guesthouse accommodations are provided at a nominal charge to cover overheads.

Terre des hommes CORE Trust, Tamil Nadu

Terre des hommes CORE (Children’s Organization for Relief and Education) is based in Tiruvannamalai, in Tamil Nadu, and works in six places in the state to improve child welfare and development. The organization currently cares for more than 2,700 children through its various children's homes and projects. It was founded in 1994 by an Indian man, who lost his parents when he was 21, and a German man. Volunteer opportunities are available for people who are interested in protecting and helping children in need. The work can be as simple as sharing a skill with the children.

Trafficking in Kolkata

Those who have seen the documentary Born into Brothels will know about the red light districts in Kolkata, and the problem of prostitution and trafficking. The positive thing is that there are many non-profit organizations doing wonderful work to help rehabilitate affected women and children, and also prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. These organizations don't provide board and lodging, but neither do they charge fees for volunteering.

Human Wave is a Kolkata based organization that runs community development and health schemes in West Bengal , including volunteer programs in the Sundarbans and youth projects in Kolkata. Volunteer opportunities are available for two weeks to three months. Volunteers pay a small fee for food and accommodations.

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What is important to know before traveling to India?

India is the seventh largest country and with more than 1 billion people, it is the second most populous country in the world! This land of so many colours and flavours can be overwhelming, but it’s beauty is incomparable. Although the Taj Mahal is the main destination, there are marvels such as Biwi ka Maqbara in Aurangabad or Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi that shouldn’t be missed. Religion is also an interesting part of India, since this country is the birthplace of 4 of the world's major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.

5 ways to embrace cultural differences while traveling

8 tips on how to immerse yourself in local culture (plus what NOT to do)

Is India safe for tourists?

India is usually depicted as a dangerous country, but it is generally safe for tourists in comparison with neighbouring countries. Locals are usually nice and friendly, though rape rate is significantly high. Therefore safety should be a concern for female travelers in India. As a female tourist in India, you should take precautionary measures. For example, avoid being alone in poorly lit areas, let someone know where you are at all times, ask your host about the surroundings and how safe is the region in you are visiting.

Top 10 safest countries we recommend for solo female travel

Women traveling alone: we need to embrace the challenge

Is it possible to use Worldpackers in India?

Yes, you can exchange work for accommodation in India at hostels, camping sites, NGOs, guesthouses, farms and more. There are Worldpackers hosts in Jaipur, New Delhi, Mumbai and many other cities in India. Check our host list and make a profile for free. The profile should include the skills you’re good at and the ones you wanna learn, travel photos and a bio about yourself. Once you provide info and find a host, you can schedule a trip by becoming a member of the Worldpackers community for only $49 a year!

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201 India Travel Tips: The FREE Beginners Guide (2024)

How to Survive Travel to India as a Beginner, What to Eat & Drink, Women-Specific Tips, Scams to Avoid & Everything Else You Need to Know

We’re Asher & Lyric.

We’ve traveled to India over 10 times during the past 10 years (that’s us pictured). It’s one of our favorite places on Earth – we absolutely love it!

Here’s the deal :

Tips for eating in India to avoid sickness:

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for eating Indian food safely.

1) Only eat freshly cooked food. This is the best way to avoid getting sick due to bacteria or a parasite. Cooking kills everything.

2) Don’t eat salads, juices or anything raw. Uncooked food will inevitably be washed with contaminated water which will make you go running for the toilet. If you’re a raw foodist, I recommend you change your diet while in India.

3) Eat exclusively from respectable restaurants that are busy. Also try the 4 and 5 star hotels if you want to be certain of amazingly delicious, safe food.

5) Probiotics and charcoal are amazing. Probiotics boost the good bacteria in your stomach, improve digestion and increase natural immunity. They are a must before traveling to India and especially during your travels. Charcoal tablets on the other hand are an incredibly effective way of stopping diarrhea and preventing dysentery. It quickly absorbs the toxins or pathogens that are causing the problem. As always, be sure to get advice form your doctor.

6) Avoid too much spicy food, especially chilli’s. Some spices are good but in my experience chilli’s act as a laxative which is probably something you don’t want.

7) Consider becoming a vegetarian while you’re there. India has the lowest meat consumption rates in the world (see graph below). The meat I’ve seen looks very unsafe, often hanging in the warm, open air with flies buzzing around. In fact, due to Hindu religious reasons, the state of Maharashtra has banned beef altogether. If you can, I recommend being a vegetarian while in India to reduce the chances of getting serious food poisoning.

8) Don’t overeat. It will weaken your digestion and immunity which makes you an easy target for bacteria. To help with my digestion and overall health I also take Organic Amla Berry tablets and another immunity boosting, ayurvedic herb called Bio-Immune .

10) Local’s restaurants offer all-you-can-eat meals for $1! Be wary of hygiene and only go to the best, busy restaurants you can find. Get advice from the locals.

11) Family home dining is a pleasure but take precautions. I’ve had the best food of my life at peoples homes. Again, it is important to be cautious and don’t drink tap water, only have cooked food. Also don’t eat too fast because they will keep piling the food on your plate and expect you to eat it and even force-feed you if you’re not careful! 🙂

– Doug Rexford , India travel expert & Himalayan monk with the Maharishi Purusha Program .

Read my full article for more details: 9 Tips for Eating in India as a Tourist Who Avoids Getting Sick Back to top

How to deal with water while traveling in India

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for drinking water in India.

13) Only drink bottled water. All the tap water in India is contaminated with pollutants and amoebas. By only drinking good bottled mineral water you will help avoid getting sick. The only brands I recommend are Bisleri, Kinley & Aquafina. Other brands are not trustworthy .

14) Stay well hydrated. India is typically hot and dry. Drink at least 2 liters (1/2 gallon) per day to stay healthy and strong.

15) If you’re trekking, bring a water filter. In rare cases where bottled water isn’t available such as while trekking, you’ll need a Katadyn Pocket Water Filter or at least a LifeStraw so that you can get safe water from flowing rivers. Boil it as well if possible and you can also use Iodine tablets to be extra safe.

17) Chai is great in the early morning. Chai is good for digestion because it has ginger and cardamom added. It should be safe to drink as long as you see them boiling it and you’re certain the cup is clean. Price should be no more than 10 rupees.

18) Coca-Cola can be a godsend. There’s a popular folklore that Coke kills bacteria and aids a disturbed stomach. This may or may not be true but it sure is nice to have a cold Coke on a hot afternoon in India!

19) Electrolytes are a must. If you get dysentery, electrolytes are a must for staying hydrated. I recommend bringing one box from home because otherwise they can be low quality and taste a bit nasty if bought in India.

20) Avoid ice in drinks. Since the ice is most likely created from a poor quality water source I advise you to not have any drinks with ice in it. If the drink such as Coke has been chilled in the fridge, that is of course fine.

22) Shower with care. Don’t open your mouth or eyes in the shower to help avoid the water getting in any unwanted orifice.

23) Bathe in holy rivers at your own risk. Taking a dip in the Ganges can be a magical experience but again, close your eyes and mouth and block your nose and ears to avoid getting too much water in the wrong hole.

– Matt Pelletier , travel blogger at Traveling Monkeys .

Read my full article for more details: 9 Tips for Safe Drinking Water in India – A Tourists Perspective Back to top

How to NOT get scammed or ripped off in India

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for avoiding scams in India.

25) Know that a “gift” can quickly turn into a sale. No matter what the “gift” is, be sure it is actually a gift before accepting it. Otherwise you can be quickly hit with a bill.

26) All shop keepers will try to rip you off. A simple way to minimize this is to only go to “fixed rate” shops, bring a local with you or you’ll need to quickly learn how to bargain like an Indian .

27) Don’t give money to beggars. This can attract an army of beggars after you and helps sustain their often drug-driven “profession”.

29) Learn to avoid fake “information offices”. The way to know is that everything looks dodgy, there are no computers (or not many), no proper desks and they tell you that all trains or hotels are fully booked out due to some “event”. This can be a front for the mafia so be careful and make sure it’s legit before following directions from them.

30) Children may want pens and beggars want milk. In both cases, they often have an arrangement with a shop to return the item for cash after you leave!

31) Trinket and gemstone scams. At any tourist location there are likely to be people touting trinkets and sometimes gemstones for sale. Unless you’re buying something as a souvenir don’t entertain their hype and always bargain them way down. The “gemstones” won’t have real value and can be a popular scam for unsuspecting tourists.

32) Watch out for people tampering with food or drink. Always check beverage bottle caps to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with and don’t accept food from strangers.

33) Be careful when exchanging money. ATM’s are the safest way to get cash because the machine won’t scam you. 🙂

35) Keep away from the mafia. If something is fishy then it probably is a scam or trap (sometimes organized by the mafia). Do your research and have your wits about you especially around train stations, popular tourist attractions (e.g Taj Mahal) and cheap hotels.

Also please note: I recently wrote an article explaining the 9 key reasons why you need to have good travel insurance for India .

36) Get experience with true local pricing. To do this, you’ll need to know what the locals would pay for the same product or service and then you’ll know how low the shop keeper, driver or hotel etc is willing to go. An Indian friend (or stranger) or guide can help you with this.

37) SIM cards for your cell phone might not work. It can be surprisingly difficult to get a SIM card in India and usually involves quite a lot of paper work. If you don’t fill out the paperwork correctly there is a good chance that you got scammed with a defunct or used SIM card. To avoid this, I recommend getting your SIM from an official office of the carrier such as Airtel or Idea.

38) Do your research before arriving at a particular place. Look up your destination on the Internet, study maps, get advice from other travelers and read the latest Lonely Planet guide book. This will help you get insider knowledge before you arrive, making you more prepared to deal with the possible onslaught of scams that await you.

Read my full article for more details: Biggest scams in India to watch out for

Also check out my article on doing business in India Back to top

A sample packing list for India travel

See our full India packing list for more tips on what to bring and what to wear when going on a trip to India.

1. Neck Wallet

I keep my money and credit cards in this pouch under my shirt so that I don’t have to have a wallet in my pocket. I have had beggars put their hand in my pocket and have found this small concealed passport pouch invaluable.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Charcoal tablets

They’re an incredibly effective way of stopping diarrhea and preventing dysentery (Delhi Belly). It quickly absorbs the toxins or pathogens that are causing the problem and keeps you strong. As always, be sure to get advice from your doctor.

3. Female Urination Device

Okay, don’t get weirded out by this one. India is a place with limited toilets and when you do find a toilet they are often absolutely disgusting. For guys this is not a problem because we can stand at the side of the road to pee but for women that’s not possible. This little device enables women to stand and pee with no mess and no embarrassment. My wife uses it and says it’s great.

4. Probiotics

They boost the good bacteria in your stomach, improve digestion and increase natural immunity. They are a must before traveling to India, especially during your travels and afterwards when you get home. They’re also generally good for all round digestive health, even when you’re not planning a trip to India.

5. India power adapter

After trying countless different brands, I decided to take matters into my own hands. My company, Hero Travel Supply, sources and sells these quality power adapters that are individually tested in the USA. Every order also comes with a corresponding free ebook which teaches you how to avoid frying your electronics in India. I wrote this comprehensive guide based on years of experience in dealing with the unpredictable, often surging power supply in India which can ruin your devices (I know because my $2000 Macbook got fried)!

6. Electrolytes

Electrolytes save lives on a daily basis. When someone has dysentery they get very dehydrated and these will save you. Even if you don’t get sick it is important to stay well hydrated in the hot, dry weather of India and these satchels can easily be added to your bottled water for an extra boost of hydration.

7. First aid kit

It’s inevitable that you’ll get a cut or scrape or some little thing that would need a first aid kit. The item I use most are band aids to help prevent infection in a wound.

8. Lifestraw

I generally only drink bottled water while traveling in India but occasionally it’s not available. In that case I bust out my LifeStraw filter which removes all bacteria, amoebas and other pollutants in the water. It’s only $20 and it doesn’t weigh much so it’s totally worth having for emergencies.

9. Travel Insurance

In India, you need to expect the unexpected. Having a travel insurance plan gives me the peace of mind to go on the adventure while knowing I have support if I get into an emergency or have all my belongings stolen! (This, unfortunately happened to a close friend. He had no insurance and so had to replace his belongings out of pocket). We recommend using TravelInsurance.com because you can compare policies from top companies and find the best option for you and your travel plans.

Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

10. Lonely Planet guide book

I highly recommend getting the latest India guide book before you go because it’s like a bible that gives all the insider tips of the most popular (and not so popular) locations around India.

11. FREE Step-By-Step Guide to India Travel

I have written a 39 page ebook with all my best tips for India Travel which you can download for free. I was compelled to write this ebook to help people learn how to survive, thrive and have a more enjoyable trip to India.

Check out my other packing lists!

– Anjuli Ayer , travel blogger at Traveling Monkeys .

Etiquette at Hindu temples

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for visiting Hindu temples.

40) Bring temple “offerings”. Whenever you go to a Hindu temple, be sure to get some flowers before entering. You can then offer these at the main statue as a sign of respect or in prayer.

41) Always remove your shoes at the entrance. The safest place to leave them is at the shop where you buy flowers because they have a vested interest in making sure no one steals them. Otherwise there is always an off chance someone will fancy your shoes or sandals, especially if they look nice or expensive.

42) Wear ear plugs. The temples in India can be extremely chaotic and noisy with bells, people yelling, babies screaming and guards pushing you through the lines. Wearing ear plugs helps dampen the sound and make it easier for you to enjoy the inner spiritual power that seems to pervade all temples in India.

44) Be inward and don’t get overwhelmed by the chaos. As I’ve mentioned, I recommend to be as inward as possible when visiting temples. Just be simple and quiet within yourself and you’ll have the best possible experience.

45) Get “special darshan” arranged at the temple office. Darshan means “receiving blessings from the divine”. Often the lines are so long at temples that you can be standing in the hot sun for hours before seeing the statue and then you’re quickly pushed out. If you go to the temple office and pay for “VIP” entry then you can skip the line and spend more time in front of the statue. It’s well worth it and won’t cost more than a few $5 to $10.

46) Have small change ready for donations. Many people will want your money at temples and it can be a bit overwhelming. If you feel to give something then have a wad of 10 rupee notes ready so that you don’t hurt your budget too quickly. 🙂

48) Stay at a hotel near the temple if you’re digging the vibes. I find that a hotel right outside the temple can be amazing because you’ll be in that “spiritual aura” 24/7 while you’re there and so the experience will be deeper and more long lasting. It also means you may be able to leave your valuables and shoes etc in your room which can be very convenient.

– Lyric Fergusson , singer-songwriter & author of French Kissing God .

Read my full article for more details: 11 Tips For Enjoying The Indian Temples Back to top  

How To Navigate Indian Airports

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for arriving at the airport and getting to you hotel safely.

50) Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. Things can often change at the last minute such as sudden traffic delays. Therefore, leave early and make sure you get multiple opinions of how long it takes to get to the airport.

52) Security screen your bags before going up to the check-in desk. If you don’t do this, you’ll be sent back and delay getting through security. Be sure to line up at the correct screening machine for your airline.

53) Make sure your bags don’t weigh too much! Domestic Indian flights have weight limits of 15kgs for checked bags and 7kgs for carry-on bags. All bags are strictly weighed and excess baggage fees are around $5 (300rs) per kilogram.

54) Get carry-on bag tags at check-in. Your bags will not be given the “stamp of approval” unless you have the tags attached to each carry-on item when going through security.

56) Don’t trust the airport food. In my opinion, most airports have food that isn’t safe to eat because it’s been sitting for too long. Instead, bring your food or only buy packaged food that you feel is okay.

57) You’ll probably have to ride on a bus to your plane. Find your gate and wait for your flight to be called and then you’ll line up to catch a bus over to your plane.

58) Have your ticket ready for getting off the plane. If your flight continues on after your destination, you’ll need to show your boarding pass to get off the plane.

59) Hire a pre-paid taxi for getting to your hotel from the airport. Inside the airport there are always pre-paid taxi stands available which will give you a fair price from a reputable driver. If you don’t do this you’ll swamped by a group of untrustworthy drivers screaming for your attention and asking too much for their service.

– Shivya Nath , award-winning Indian travel blogger at The Shooting Star .

Read my full article for more details: Navigating Indian airports – it’s harder than you think! Back to top  

Handling money in India

Click below to watch our free video covering all our tips for handling money in India.

61) You will need to carry cash. Credit cards are only accepted at larger businesses or hotels. Therefore you will always need to carry some cash so that you can pay for taxis, auto rickshaws, cheap hotels and your food etc. I keep all my large bills concealed under my clothing in my neck wallet .

62) Airports give poor currency exchange rates. Use an ATM instead or if that’s not possible only get a few thousand rupees exchanged at the airport because their rates are usually the worst in the whole country.

63) Use a Citibank ATM to withdraw more than 10,000rs at one time. As far as I know, all other ATMs across India will not let you withdraw more than $150 (10,000rs). With all the fees you may have in your home country this can be quite annoying and costly. Citibank allows you to withdraw whatever your daily maximum in your home country is e.g $500.

65) Conceal your money & passport under clothing: I have had pickpockets and beggars put their hand in my pocket looking for money. Since I keep my valuables on my chest, concealed under my clothing in a neck wallet , I’ve never had anything stolen.

66) Use PayPal or Western Union to send money to India. If for some reason you need to send money to an Indian from your home country, I recommend PayPal and if that doesn’t work then try Western Union.

Communication advice for tourists in India

68) Learn to understand the famous “head wobble”. This subtle gesture conveys a lot of meaning depending on the context and degree to which the head is wobbled. It can take some time to learn but when mastered it’s actually a very natural and enjoyable form of human communication.

69) Know that “yes” can mean “I don’t understand”. Sometimes a driver or shopkeeper may want to please you or simply won’t understand what you’re saying and so they will say “yes”. My friend who’s been working in India for 10 years says that he doesn’t take “yes” for an answer!

71) Memorize a few key phrases. I recommend learning a few words of the local language because it shows you have an interest in the culture. It will almost always be very well received and help you quickly make friends with the locals.

72) Have plenty of patience. It can be very frustrating when for example, someone says “yes” to every question you ask. Try to find someone who speaks better English and calmly sort through the miscommunication that may be occurring.

73) Be amused by funny communication rather than angered. You’ll have a much more enjoyable trip if you see the humor in it rather than getting angered and annoyed. These people are doing their best with a second or third language and so give them some compassion.

Read my full article for more details: Communication in India – learn the head wobble! Back to top  

Transportation throughout India

75) Indians drive on the left side of the road. Since the British influenced the first Indian cars they follow suit with driving on the left. Although, crazy driving often may lead to seeing cars, motorbikes and people on the wrong side of the road.

76) Ride a train at least once in your trip. Only travel in 2AC or first class and make sure you book your tickets early enough that they’re not sold out. Trains are the best way to travel long distances if you’re on a budget. Avoid the food they provide unless it’s been packaged.

77) Air travel is the most luxurious by far. If you can afford it, the most comfortable and obviously fastest way to get around is by plane. My favorite website for booking domestic Indian flights and trains is Cleartrip.com.

79) Traveling via an AC taxi is nice for shorter journeys if you can afford it. The car provides comfort with the windows up and the cool AC air but the zig-zagging can get a bit much if the trip is more than a couple of hours. If you value your life I recommend that you demand a working seat belt before you get in the car. Be persistent and they should be able to hook you up.

80) Auto rickshaw journeys are memorable to say the least! Auto rickshaw’s are great for short rides but I recommend ear plugs , sun glasses and a bandana or dust mask to avoid to much bombardment on the senses. Also it’s best to not ride one for more than 20 to 30 minutes or you’ll be exhausted.

81) As mentioned, try to avoid long journeys by road. The roads in India are wildly dangerous and often uncomfortably bumpy. If there is an option to get a plane, train or bus then I would take it instead. Otherwise you might get car sick or just really tired from all the insanity of weaving between head on traffic.

– Rachel Jones , popular India travel blogger at Hippie in Heels .

Read my full article for more details: Travel on Indian Trains, Planes, Buses, Cars & Auto Rickshaws Back to top  

Tips for better hotel experiences while traveling in India

83) It’s possible to stay at $2 “el cheapo” hotels. If you’re on a real tight budget and don’t mind about basic conditions: no pillow, no bed sheets, squat toilet and cold showers, then it’s totally possible to find a $2/night “hotel”. You may have to ask around but in every town outside of big cities you will be able find such accommodation. I recommend you be careful when staying at an Airbnb .

84) It’s also possible to stay at $500, 5 star palaces. If you’re wanting a luxury vacation then India also offers some of the best hotel experiences in the world.

85) Mid range hotels are a balanced blend of comfort and price. The hotels in the $40 to $70 range offer mostly Western standards e.g clean sheets, hot water and a normal toilet. For these kind of hotels and the 5 star palaces, I recommend doing research on TripAdvisor to get real opinions from other travelers.

87) Wear flip flops in the shower. The bathroom floors may not be the cleanest place and so I recommend you use flip flops to keep you feet hygenic. This is especially true in low budget hotels that usually don’t get cleaned properly.

88) Remember, only brush your teeth with bottled water. It’s easy to forget, especially if you stay at a fancy hotel but the water everywhere in India is questionable and brushing your teeth is no exception.

89) Cheaper hotels don’t provide towels. The $2 hotels definitely won’t give you a towel and the mid range hotels will probably give you an old towel that you won’t want to use. For this reason I bring a light weight travel towel just in case.

91) Tip your staff appropriately. Whenever you get room service of any kind at a hotel I recommend you tip between 10 and 20 rupees. If you’re staying at a more fancy hotel you may want to tip between 30 and 50 rupees. This should will help you get better service and more alert staff.

92) Squat toilets are common at budget hotels. These toilets are fine once you get used to squatting but it’s good to be aware of if you’d prefer not to use them. All mid-range and above hotels have normal Western toilets.

93) Watch out for smoking DDT at mid to high end hotels!! Unfortunately many mid to high end ($50 to $90/ night) hotels have a “mosquito management” practice where they have a pot of burning DDT that they carry through the corridors on a daily basis. The fumes of course get into your room and it can be unbearable. If you’re sensitive to this like me, you may want to call ahead before booking a hotel to see what they do for “mosquito management”. This practice probably won’t happen at cheap or 5 star hotels.

– Doug Rexford , India travel expert & Himalayan monk with the Maharishi Purusha Program .

Read my full article for more details: 10 tips to have the best hotel experience in India Back to top  

How to bargain like an Indian

95) Learn how to bargain like an Indian: I would say that Indian’s are the best negotiators or bargainers I have ever encountered. They are incredibly good at going for your emotions, very comfortable with numbers and know how to up sell until the cows come home. If you want good deals, this is an essential skill and in fact may help you with negotiation once you return to your home country.

96) Quickly learn how the bargaining process works. The main thing is start out real low and then immediately offer a little higher so that they know you want to bargain.

Here is a sample sequence:

I was in a clothing shop in a town called Bhopal. When I asked how much a certain sweater was, the owner said, “2000rs” (US $40). I instantly replied, “50rs”. He laughs and says, “no way”. I reply, “100rs”. He says, “1000rs”. I reply, “200rs”. He says, “800rs”. I reply, “300rs”. He says, “700rs”. At this point I say, “too much” and start to leave the shop. He freaks out and says, “500rs sir! this is best price, I have wife and baby at home”. While standing at the door of the shop I say “400rs is my best price” and start to move away. He comes running and says “okay, deal” with a slight grin on his face.

98) Know that “maximum retail price” is not the price tag. Most items that are packaged will have MRP written on it. This is the maximum retail price but it is always possible to bargain that price down but you definitely shouldn’t pay more than that price.

99) Shop around and compare prices. Before making large purchases and if you have the energy you can get better deals by comparing prices. Usually certain shops (such as jewelry) are grouped together making it easier to shop around.

100) Ask help from some local friends. If you befriend a local, they will likely get great joy helping you bargain down to rock bottom prices. Although, you may have to be out of sight so the shop owner doesn’t know what’s going on.

101) Have fun with it. The main thing is to not take things too seriously (especially since your savings may only be few dollars) and enjoy the process. Otherwise it can quickly get very emotionally and physically draining.

– Tim Ferriss , bestselling author of The 4-Hour Workweek .

Read my full article for more details: How to bargain like an Indian Back to top  

Pollution in India is the worst in the world

103) Piles of burning plastic are everywhere. As far as I can tell, there are no real waste management programs offered for household waste. Instead what happens is the plastic items are swept into a pile and then set on fire!

105) Exhaust fumes are asphyxiating. The large cities have an absurdly large number of vehicles all releasing toxic exhaust fumes.

106) Wear a gas mask or at least a bandana. If you have sensitive lungs, I highly recommend you bring a quality gas mask to overcome the asphyxiating pollution problem. A bandana will work somewhat but won’t be able to stop the fine particles such as exhaust fumes and burning plastic pollution.

107) Avoid the big cities like the plague. According to the World Health Organization , New Delhi is now the world’s most polluted city and is 2.5x more polluted than Beijing and a whopping 15x more polluted than Washington D.C. (as shown below). Therefore, I highly recommend you avoid big cities when traveling in India and be aware of this problem which is country wide.

Peggy O’Neill is a motivational & diversity keynote speaker who loves traveling to India and Nepal..

Advice specifically for women traveling in India

These tips were provided by my friend, Rohini Grace.

122) Speak up and just say, “no!” Usually, it’s not in our female nature to be aggressive or assertive, but when you show strength and confidence this tends to show people that you know what you are doing and you have less chance of being taken advantage of.

124) Plan ahead, and know exactly where you’re going. I cannot emphasize this enough. Talk to your friends who have been there, consult tour guides or groups, read Lonely Planet and research your destinations on the Internet beforehand.

125) Avoid going out after dark. I don’t recommend heading out on your own after dark unless you have a buddy or group to explore with. You will notice there are not many local women out after the early evening.

128) Seriously, put a ring on it. When locals find out you aren’t married, be prepared for a lot of (usually disapproving) feedback. I often wear a simple band around my finger just to keep unwanted questions and interest at bay. If you are already married then you’ve got it made. 🙂

– Rohini Grace , owner of a boutique India tour company, Goddess Travels .

Understanding the cultural differences between India & the Western world

Interesting facts about India

130) India has the second largest population in the world. According to the 2011 census it is now over 1.2 billion and growing incredibly fast. It is the 31st most densely populated nation with 991 people per square mile. Some sources say it’s the oldest continuous civilization on the planet.

131) India is the world’s largest democracy. It became independant of the British occupation in 1947 and is considered a “Federal parliamentary constitutional republic”.

132) There are over 17 languages. Sanskrit is the most ancient known language and is the mother of all the European languages. Luckily for us, English is spoken almost everywhere (making it the largest English speaking country in the world). The number of distinctly different languages highlights the fact that India is extremely culturally diverse and in many ways like a collection of countries rather than one country. Where ever you visit, it’s helpful to learn a few phrases of the local language.

133) The predominant religion is Hinduism at over 78%. Below is pie chart based off the 2011 census showing the spread of popular religions in India. Even though Christianity is only 2.5% there are over 30 million Christians in India!

134) India is home to the world’s largest religious pilgrimage site. Approximately 30,000 people visit Venkateshwar (The Vishnu Temple) in Tirupati everyday and there are 12,000 temple staff. What’s more is that annual donations exceed $100 million dollars!

136) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and per capita income. According to the International Money Fund the Indian GDP is $2.3 trillion which is the 7th largest worldwide, whereas per capita income is $1,800 annually which is the 141st in the world.

137) 100’s of millions of Indians live on less than $2/ day. 27% of the Indian population live below the poverty line while at the same time India also has the 4th highest number of billionaires at 90.

138) Cricket is by far the most popular sport. For those who don’t know, it’s similar to baseball and in almost every field you pass in India you’ll see kids (and adults) playing the sport.

Good cultural differences

140) The people are so genuine & friendly. I have met some of the most kind hearted and generous people I’ve ever known during my travels to India. Even though these people didn’t have much money, they welcomed me into their homes and spoiled me with the most delicious food ever.

141) Spirituality and religion thrives. Upon every street corner is some statue or place of worship. The history and power of the land is so strong and sometimes over powering and it is the mecca for mass yoga and meditation.

142) Indian’s try to offer amazing service. India is known for being a “service oriented culture” and everyone works hard to please. India has a lot of people and time on it’s hands making it possible to hire someone to do practically anything. Sometimes the quality of the service may not be ideal but the effort is almost always there.

144) The resourcefulness and ingenuity is mind blowing. While driving the streets you will find the most eye opening resourcefulness. From people carrying a bed frame or sheet of glass on the back of a motorcycle to a truck so over laden with goods that the driver can barely see out the front window. This no doubt stems from the poverty and need to survive.

145) India is a mostly peaceful nation. In fact, India has never invaded another country in at least 1000 years. Although India itself has been invaded countless times by other countries. Crime rate is lower than in the U.S and if you avoid big cities you will feel very safe.

146) Some of the best food in the world. It of course depends on your taste but the unbelievable diversity of flavors and textures, colors and presentation of the food can be a divine experience. Many dishes take hours upon hours to prepare and if you have a sweet tooth you won’t be disappointed.

Possibly uncomfortable cultural differences

147) Chaos is everywhere. Almost all road rules including red lights will be ignored. The streets are bustling with people, livestock and every kind of vehicle you can think of all tooting their horns. This can be quite a contrast from the quiet streets of the West. Furthermore, you may find it hard to locate your seat belt making it rather unsafe.

149) The caste system still exists. It’s composed of “priests” (Brahmins), “warriors” (Kshatriyas), “merchants” (Vaishyas) & “workers” (Shudras). Unfortunately this division seems to cause discrimination between the castes and can get confusing without knowing the ins and outs.

150) Most animals get abused, except for cows. Be it a dog, cat, chicken (meant for consumption), an ox (drawing a cart), animal abuse in India can be shocking and seems to be everywhere. It is a conundrum as to why this happens especially since India is the birthplace of the concept of Ahimsa or “non-violence”. The one animal that is largely exempt from this abuse is the cow because it holds particular importance in the Hindu religion. Although, you often see cows eating trash which is different kind of abuse.

151) Almost everyone will try to get your money. Since hundreds of millions of Indians are living on less than $2/day the struggle for survival is a real issue. The main thing is to have your wits about yourself and be compassionate but I advice you do not ever give money to beggars.

153) Lying or bending the truth. It may be due to communication difficulties, but it seems that often Indians don’t have a problem with lying. Whether it’s a taxi driver or a shop owner – there’s a good chance they will bend the truth or lie if it helps them make a sale. I suggest you try to get informed beforehand and ask the right questions, ones that can’t be simply answered by “yes”.

154) Expect to see spitting. A lot of men use chewing tobacco (known as “paan”) which means there can be a lot of spitting on the street. Many women also don’t have a problem spitting when they need to.

155) Littering and trash are ubiquitous across India. It is yet to be understood that littering is a bad thing and so the streets act as open trash cans. The trash then piles up and the solution is normally to set it (mostly plastic) on fire. This is why I always bring a dust mask to help me breathe!

Cultural Do’s & Don’ts

Below I’ve listed some of the most important points to remember to avoid cultural awkwardness.   156) DO be patient & have a sense of humor. 158) DO have an open heart & mind. 160) DO make friends with the locals. 162) DO wear Indian clothes at special occasions. 164) DO remove your shoes at peoples homes. 166) DO wash your hands & use hand sanitizer. 168) DO only use your right hand while eating. 170) DO learn to understand the “head wobble”. 172) DO try to pay if at restaurants with Indians. 174) DO know that 1 min means 5 to 10 mins. 176) DO be prepared to have your photo taken. 178) DO bring a small gift if you stay at a home. 180) DO touch the feet of someone you respect.

– J.D Viharini , author of guidebook: Enjoying India .

Back to top  

Why should you go to India?

183) Have the experience of a lifetime. India will blow your mind. You’ll see some of the most crazy sights of your life. It’ll be a sensory overload (mostly in a good way). If you’re open you’ll meet some of the nicest people on Earth and your heart will expand. Every time I go to India which is now 7 times, my life improves for the better and my mind gets broadened from the experience.

184) The history is mind blowing. India is quite possibly the oldest civilization in the world. Many of the famous monuments are ancient yet so beautiful. You can just feel the history in the land.

185) Indulge in the best food you’ve ever had. I have had by far some of the best food ever while traveling in India. The exquisite flavors and care with preparation are to die for. 🙂

187) Discover wonderful cultural diversity. There is an incredible mosaic of cultural differences that exist in peaceful unity in India. It’s a delightful experience to travel from far north India through central Maharashtra state down to the southern tip at Kanyakumari. The diversity of food, dress, customs, language and landscapes are limitless.

188) There are endless things to see. India is jam packed with sights and experiences that exist nowhere else. From the Himalayas around Uttar Kashi to the beaches of Kerala and from the Taj Mahal to the tiger reserve at Bandhavgarh you won’t be let down.

• 190) Diwali – Festival of lights . The biggest and most important holiday in the Hindu calendar. Watch out for loud fireworks, extra pollution and wild parties.
• 191) Holi – Festival of colors or festival of love . This one is where everyone throws colored powder on each other. Wear clothes you don’t mind ruining and enjoy the fun!
• 192) Durga Puja – Festival of Durga . The celebration of the victory of “good” over “evil”. It can be a great spiritual experience.
• 193) Onam – The harvest festival . Celebrated in the state of Kerala. Wear new clothes and admire the beautiful flower arrangements outside peoples homes.
• 194) Raksha Bandhan – Festival of love & protection between brothers and sisters . Tie a string around your sister or brothers wrist to show your love.
• 195) Maha Shivaratri – The great night of Lord Shiva . Celebrating the convergence or marriage of Shiva (silence) and Shakti (dynamism) which are two fundamental energies in the universe. It can be an incredibly powerful spiritual experience.
• 196) Christmas, Kerala style – Celebrating the birth of Jesus . In Kerala there are a lot of Christians and they have their own style of Christmas which can be quite fun to witness!

197) Relax and rejuvenate. India is an incredible place to be pampered, relax and just chill-out. The ancient Indian healthcare system known as Ayurveda offers amazing treatments including massage and other rejuvenation techniques. Find a health spa you like and you’ll unwind like never before.

198) Bargain until the cows come home. India naturally has amazing shopping opportunities not just because of the great prices but also because of the unique items that are available. There is good reason why the Dutch East India Trading Company made so many trips to India and this holds true to this day.

199) You’ll help their economy. Last but not least, going to India will help boost their economy of which tourism is a major part. Since there are so many people in India living below the poverty line it feels good to be able to help even if in a small way.

So, What’s The Bottom Line?

India truly is a remarkable place, but in order to enjoy it fully, you must be prepared.

I believe my tips will give you all you need. And, my free ebook is a handy way to bring all these tips with you on your trip.

Here’s one last dose of inspiration, from the wise words of Mark Twain. Even though it was written in 1899, he captures the essence of India perfectly!

Enjoy your India travel!

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Asher Fergusson

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Home » Budget Travel » How to Travel FOR FREE: No Money, No Problems!

How to Travel FOR FREE: No Money, No Problems!

It’s something I’ve never been able to fully instil in my non-travelling friends back home:  just how cheap travel can be.  The myth is that travelling the world is expensive; the reality is that it’s often cheaper than being at home. Travellers don’t pay taxes, or electricity bills, or student loans. Travellers live cheap.

So what if we took it one step further? Today, we’re talking about how to travel the world for free!

The best things in life are free, or so it’s been told. Everything we need is right here. Maybe these things are true, I’m not sure. What I do know is…

Life is as simple as we choose to make it.

Nothing in this list of tips for travelling without money is complicated (except maybe frequent flyer miles – goddamn credit cards). Everything in this guide is easy and actionable – the more you apply, the more inexpensive your travelling will be. With enough practice and ingenuity, you may even find yourself spending  $0 !

Did anyone say  “Take a vacation for free” ? Yes, me, right now! Weren’t you listening? Well, you better start because I’m about to teach you…

How to travel for free!

Dis shit is gonna get cheap, yo!

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A Big, Sexy Disclaimer

Folks, this article is not about how to travel the world like a dickweed. Anyone can travel for free if they take advantage of people along the way, lying, cheating, stealing, and being an all-round douchenozzle.

Similarly, though we’ll cover some of the more crusty methods of travel, as well as tackle that sticky topic of ‘begpacking’ , THAT’S not what this article is about either.

This article is about  learning how to live a low-cost lifestyle of travel. One that’s sustainable in the long-term as well as financially independent.  Travelling until you run out of cash and move back in with your Mum or Dad is cute in your early 20s, but that’s not what we’re about at The Broke Backpacker. That’s not what a broke backpacker is .

At The Broke Backpacker, we’re about teaching you how to live a lifestyle of indefinite travel in a responsible way – responsible to the world, yourself, and those who love you. Go out, travel, see the world, and do it for as long as you like, but do it right.

Don’t begpack, don’t abuse your privilege, and don’t ever expect a handout. Free travel is NOT about exploitation; it’s about travelling without burning through your savings in a way that’s more authentic and less insipid than simply blowing your funds on all the cheap booze and drugs .

Oh, and it shouldn’t have to be said, but, please,  don’t ever go travelling with literally $0 in your bank account. That’s just bloody stupid.

The Best Ways to Travel for Free

How to get a free vacation, how to travel when you’re broke, travel the world for free: is it possible, remaining tips for how to travel free, closing thoughts on free travel.

Let’s start by talking about how to travel for a living. These options for free travel mean exchanging your time and energy (i.e. working) for the freedom of being on the road. (And probably somewhere super-duper pretty too!)

Yes, ok, they aren’t all strictly ‘free trips’ but you’re away from home, not burning through your savings, and, potentially, maybe even saving some money too! If you disagree with my criteria, well, shush your face! Go travel the world for more than three years with your savings still intact like I have and then come back and we’ll argue semantics.

Still with me? Good because I want to travel the world for free and you should too!

Travel the World for Free Volunteering

Volunteering abroad for free – ahhh . This is where it all began for me and, sometimes, when it all becomes too much, it’s back with the hippies in the fields, shoes off and muddy, that I return to. For me, this will always be one of the most authentic and best ways to travel for free or otherwise.

The name of the game is simple: you work some agreed subset of hours, you get a place to sleep and food in return. Hopefully, a washing machine too!

Travelling free by way of volunteering could mean a lot of things: hostel work, farms, working with kids, charities, construction, kitten sanctuaries (god yes). The only way to find out what’s out there is to get out there! (You could also start by reading this review/guide/informational post on Workaway .)

Interested in travelling the world for free volunteering? Here are some excellent platforms:

• Workaway – The biggest in the game. Follow the link and sign up to receive an extra 3 months on your subscription!
• HelpX – The oft-forgotten cousin of Workaway.
• WWOOF – Exclusively for organic farm work.
• Talking to people – In the 21st-century? Get outta my house!
• Facebook and other platforms – Plenty of groups for this stuff but it’s best to search by the country or local area.
• Worldpackers – Follow the link or enter the code BROKEBACKPACKER to get $10 off your subscription. We’ve also reviewed Worldpackers !

Note:  Most of the platforms have an initial subscription fee (nothing in life is  truly  free). It’s a small price to pay in exchange for a year of travelling and volunteering around the world for free.

Work and Travel for Free Teaching English

If you’re reading this sentence, then you probably speak English. Awesome! Step one complete! What’s step two?

Get your TEFL certificate. With that in hand, it’s time to discover another one of the best ways to travel the world. Didja guess yet?

Yup, teaching English!

There’s a whole host of ways to get involved teaching English overseas and what an experience it is! Impart wisdom, see cute Asian kids smile (yay), and learn how to travel abroad for free. Well, not free… you’re actually earning money – oh snap!

If you want to take it a step further, you can teach English online . You’re entering the realm of the digital nomad which is certainly a different way to travel but that’s ok because – BOOM, SEGUE!

Ditch Your Desk for a Different Way to Travel

Now entering the realm of the digital nomad . If you really want to learn how to travel more, nothing will give you quite so much geographical freedom.

Anywhere your laptop (and stable internet connection goes), your source of revenue goes. Living the vanlife? Easy.

Renting a nudists-only Airbnb by a beach somewhere? Making money online is best done while tanning your best bits.

Volunteering at a kibbutz in Israel? Now you’re actually travelling for free, costs covered, WHILE earning money. Level-up!

Learning how to travel the world for a living is a whole new ball game. It’s the holy grail for many travellers but beware of the ‘grass is greener’ syndrome: it’s a lotta work and a lot to take on and, at times, your brain will hate you. Is it awesome though?

Fuck yes it is.

So, yeah, this may be stretching the how to travel for free concept but it’s an important mention for anyone looking at opportunities to travel free and extend their already indefinite adventures. Theoretically, we all gotta grow up eventually and make some cash, right?

I dunno, don’t ask me. I’m still Peter Pan-ning it up over here.

Or Just Work for Inexpensive Travelling

If a job that glues you to your laptop isn’t appealing but adopting the low-cost travel lifestyle of a working traveller is, then maybe just get a job-job. You know, one that sounds better on your Tinder profile than “influencer” .

What kind of job? Well, potential travel jobs is a long-ass list (which we conveniently have right here) , but if you’re starting from scratch and need to know how to travel the world with no money, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Busker – Traveller-life and street performance go together like drugs and sex.
• Bartender – A extremely internationally-transferable trade and lucrative too… if you know how to bat those eyelids just right.
• Scaffolding and stage construction – Construction/labouring is good in general, but the stage construction and scaffolding industries are very international.
• Picking/Trimming – Also a lucrative industry IF you’re fast.
• Flight attendant – How to travel around the world for free 101.
• Cruise ship work – The money can be good contingent on the company and you’ll always have the added bonus of copious amounts of drugs and sex!
• Tuk-tuk races in Sri Lanka – I dunno; my cousin does them and he seems to be doin’ alright!

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Free international travel is about to get hacked! Ready to hack? It’s time to hack with these hacks!

Did I say ‘hack’ too much? Righto, moving along.

These following ways to travel the world for free are more courtesy of the convenience of the 21st-century. And, that’s exactly where we like to be.

Being a “nomad” these days is very different from what it used to be. No longer do we have to hunt elk and forage for berries in the woods – now we can just order a pizza with UberEats!

Now, we have a whole host of tools and platforms to uncover and exchange free travel opportunities!

Catch Flights Right: How to Travel Overseas for Free

It doesn’t matter how cheap you live when you arrive, you’ll still have to pay for an expensive-ass flight to get there… right? Wrong!

Learning how to catch cheap flights is going to be integral to learning how to travel without money. Error fares, mega-discounts, turning on incognito mode… booking flights does my head in – truly. I just want to travel the world; I don’t have time for this humdrum!

I’d suggest reading the above-linked post because it’s really a whole other Pandora’s Box.

To take it one step further, you can sign up with airlines to earn frequent flyer miles. Accrue enough of these and you’re looking at a cheap or even free trip overseas. A travel rewards credit card is going to stack up points in much the same way until, eventually, you get a free trip.

All of this credit stuff does my head in but the point is obvious. Do your research and find the best program to sign up in. Don’t you be wasting them points!

Or, if you’re like me and credit cards and booking flights gives you anxiety, just do what I do – overland it ! Planes are for fools; border crossings are where it’s at. And cheaper!

Apps and Platforms with Opportunities for Free Travel

Ok, now it’s really time to hack this open, right to the gooey, delicious centre. Oh, sorry, I made it weird, didn’t I?

No matter. It’s the 21st-century and now the smartphone has paved the way in much the same way that the wheel once did. These days, a lot of good platforms exist online that offer their own free ways to travel the world:

• Couchsurfing – Where to go when you have no money… to a mate’s couch! Except now all your mates are strangers and internationally based. Check out our Beginner’s Couchsurfing Guide for more info but it’s basically a platform where travellers asked to be hosted by people with a sleeping space to spare.
• Housesitting – You’ll need to build up a few references and pay a membership fee but then you can get all kinds of free accommodation… and in a private home too! Travelling by housesitting is a fantastic way to travel for free with the bonus of never having to share a hostel dorm with fatty, unshowered humans.
• Fly and swap vacations – It’s kind of like housesitting except your swapping homes with someone. That means it’s a bit more nuanced – you need to actually have a home to swap away. HomeExchange and HomeLink are two platforms that cover this.
• Au Pair – If you enjoy the company of miniature-monster-gremlins hiding in the bodies of children, then consider working as an Au Pair . Travel around the world for free, connect with a family and their spawn, and make some money too!

Yay, ok, my speciality! I may get anxiety from credit cards and fancy hotels but the broke-ass swashbuckling backpacker lifestyle is my answer to the emptiness of existence. Life gets simpler.

Real quick, these tips can be also found in our Budget Backpacking 101 article – some crossover is inevitable in the world of low-cost travel!

There’s a whole host of good advice in there if you’re not just specifically looking at how to travel for free but also at the cheapest way to travel the world. Yeah, these two posts may crossover a bit but hand-in-hand they make for some excellent reading (self-plug) if you’re dedicated to learning about how to backpack around the world with no money.

Consider this your Budget Backpacking Light.

Believe it or not, there is a lot of free food out there! The first and most common way (arguably) to eat for free is dumpster diving . People throw away a lot of perfectly edible food and useful stuff (half my wardrobe comes from late-night scores) and getting good at harnessing this awesome power of wastage is going to go a long way if you want to travel for free.

From the humble park trashcan up to the almighty power of the supermarket skip, free food is everywhere. Alternatively, you can acquire food before it hits the bin by asking for food wastage: bakeries, fruit and veg shops, food markets especially. Then there’s tablesurfing too – eating someone’s leftovers at a restaurant.

It’s an excellently fun game!

You’ve also always got food giveaways (we’ll touch on that tentative topic of begpacking in a moment) and religious shindigs too. The Hare Krishnas love, love, love feeding travellers for nothing or next to it.

I’ve eaten free Prasad in the streets of Varanasi and in Gurdwaras in Agra. There’s free food near the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron and free bread at every turn in Jerusalem (it might be for the cats…). Hell, there’s even an online platform dedicated to helping us intrepid raccoons find excellent freegan sources (urban fruit trees are shockingly common).

The point is if you’re travelling without money, there are still heaps of ways to fill your belly. You just gotta get creative!

This one is a pretty basic tip for free travel. I’ve already mentioned Couchsurfing but option two is to just sleep where you land . It’s a big, wide world out there with ample floor space!

For this, except for truly warm and rain-free climates, you’re gonna need a few things. In my personal order of importance:

• A sexy-warm sleeping bag
• Backpacking sleeping pad (the floor is cold)
• A budget backpacking tent (you could get really nice tent but I’ve always found it to be overkill)
• A sleeping bag liner
• Or, alternatively to the tent and pad, a backpacking hammock

With a combination of these things, you can sleep free while travelling pretty much anywhere. Camp out in the woods, in urban environments, or if you think the cops will get funny about you pitching a tent, sleep under a bridge or in a bus station or abandoned building. As my dirtbag travel companion in New Zealand always said: we can sleep anywhere!

This, however, is not a commentary on safety. I’ve never had an issue but also I’m a white man covered in tattoos that looks like he sleeps with a knife in his pocket. Be smart, be safe , don’t go past your limits, and learn what a good pitch looks like.

Pro-tip: No one goes into graveyards at night. Oh, and on that note, leave no fucking trace.

Travel Free

If we’re talking the most literal definition of the term, there’s only one way to travel for free that I can think of: hitchhiking. I love hitchhiking! It’s free travel to places, you meet local people – people you never would have met otherwise – and see many worlds from the inside (or outside) of many vehicles.

Hell, sometimes people invite you over, offer to let you stay the night, or to go on an adventure. I don’t do it as much as I used to but sometimes, when I’m just needing a holiday from the work and travel life, I take a break from the tech and hit the road.

I see who picks me up and sleep where I land – no schedule, no itinerary. Simplicity at its finest. Hitchhiking is grand! And to those who question if it’s ethical – I can assure you some of my best travel memories involve those that gave me a ride.

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I guess that’s the last big question:

How can I travel for free? Is it really possible? Teach me sensei that hasn’t bought a new piece of clothing in almost-three-and-a-half years!

Yes! It is. Buy a plane ticket on miles, choose a visa-waiver country, hitchhike from the airport to your volunteering gig, eat only the finest cuisine from the dumpster! It’s a free year long trip !

Ok, look, that may not be your ideal vacation (free or not), but it’s a portrayal of an extreme circumstance. This isn’t a strict guide to travelling the world for free; it’s a handbook. Take what works, when it works, and apply it at will.

Practice makes perfect and pretty soon you’ll be finding that you’re having some pretty dope-ass adventures on some pretty low spendings. Hell, why not set up some passive income at home and then earn a bit while you’re volunteering abroad cheaply. (Or just Couchsurfing.)

I met a dude in New Zealand way back near the beginning and he said something very insightful.

“You don’t need a lot to travel. A plane ticket, $500, and you can be gone for a while.”

He was so right.

Why travel without money?

Because it’s fucking awesome!

Seriously, the stunning sunrises and sunsets I’ve seen only because my days hitching ended where they did. The adventures I’ve ended up on just because I was asking around for a spot of work. The things I’ve done because I was working for a bed and feed… I milked a goat once!

Learning how to start travelling abroad for free opens up a lot of doors, both in the world and in yourself. Pretty soon you start to realise that you’re pretty damn capable! That in all likelihood, you got dis.

And, on the off-chance you don’t, chances are there’ll be someone around to lend a hand.

Give it some time and you’ll start to find that there’s always somewhere to sleep and something to eat. There’s always a spot of work that needs to be done by a willing hand.

After a bit more time travelling the world without money, you may start finding you already have everything you need. If not the best, then at least some pretty insanely spectacular things are free, and, best of all…

Simplicity is so damn blissful!

“I want to travel but have no money.” – Voluntourism, begpacking, and tact.

I said we were gonna touch on this, yeah?

Voluntourism is one can of worms; one that I feel fewer people take issue with. There are some points against it, and some validity in these points, but nothing that I truly believe is able to undo the sheer amount of good that comes from people travelling through volunteering overseas.

Connections between local communities and travellers are made and something is returned while travelling around the world. It’s a symbiotic relationship – if you’re heart is equally in it for the work as it is for the free-living – and it works, usually for the best.

Begpacking gets stickier – it’s a modern-day complaint against a style of living that has existed much longer. That, somehow, choosing to travel with no money makes you self-entitled and undeserving of the kindness of strangers. However, even the name “begpacking” itself stands as a bit of a misnomer.

I’ve never “begged” for something and I don’t know anyone who has. (However, travellers who do quite literally “beg” exist and they should promptly hand in their backpacker card).

I’ve hitchhiked but I’ve never even directly asked someone for a ride. I’ve never asked someone for a place to stay and certainly never for money. I have eaten at free food giveaways but only ones that were welcoming and warm to travellers and wanted me there (sometimes, with some volunteering on the side).

Usually, if someone wants to offer you something, then that’s a gift of kindness (except when ulterior motives may be at play). As a traveller, a long way from the comfort of home, a bit of kindness goes a long way.

I know there are people out there that abuse this kindness in their attempts to get a free trip. This is a reminder not to .

It’s about having tact and moving with grace; leaving places in the world better than when you arrived. Be a little bit of good in the world wherever you go. Considering all the places you’ll go, that’s a lot of good.

If you’re choosing to travel without money, then remember that’s your choice. A long way from home or not, no one owes you a hand, so be grateful when they lend it.

Before I tie up the ‘How to Get a Free Vacation Handbook’, it’s time for the final bonus tips. These may not individually rock your boat, but together they’ll groove it a bit for sure!

• Don’t burn out – Always stressing about money, looking for the cheapest way to travel to your next destination, and racing against yourself: it can be exhausting. Don’t push yourself too hard. Take a rest sometimes, go slow, and remember that when travelling without money gets stressful, home is always waiting.
• Every country is unique – Every country has its own nuances. What food is cheap, expectations on people volunteering abroad, even the hitchhiking hand signals! It takes time to learn a new place and mistakes probably will happen so cut yourself some slack, alright?
• Mistakes do happen – On that note, so as much as free travelling around the world may be the goal, it pays to stockpile a little rainy day money. Unless you don’t mind calling in financial favours from the ‘rents.
• There’s free food in more places than the dumpster – Many countries have food growing in abundance that isn’t privately owned (or in a bin). Learning edible plants and how to forage is pretty goddamn top-tier Broke Backpacking, but it’s certainly possible.
• Know your rights volunteering – While it’s important to put the hard work in for your hosts when volunteering, it’s equally important that you aren’t being exploited either. Not all hosts are top blokes and some do seek to take advantage of backpackers. Remember that no one is doing anyone any favours: it’s an exchange.
• You’re broke but you’re not poor – This is especially true when travelling in developing nations. It does get tiresome feeling like you’re being targeted as a tourist by touts and beggars, but you are a tourist. Travelling without money doesn’t bring you down to the level of the legitimately homeless and impoverished; one party chose to be there, the other did not. Just keep that in mind.

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Oh, and one last tip… Get insured before embarking on your free travel adventure!

Yeah, ok, insurance isn’t free (or cheap) but when you’re lying in a hospital bed with some truly astounding food poisoning from the dumpster diving, at least your treatment will be! Seriously, travel insurance is a super important consideration for any journey.

Members of The Broke Backpacker team have been using SafetyWing for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re an easy to use and professional provider that the team swears by.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

You don’t need a lot of money to travel: that’s the takeaway! Maybe eventually you’ll need some money so leaving the country with $0 in the bank account isn’t necessarily smart. That said, I have a friend that got his working visa in Australia by photoshopping his bank statement, so, really, anything is possible!

Even if the low-cost world traveller game isn’t for you, I still think everyone should try it once. It changes your perspective a lot.

It changes your perspective on the idea of what you need and what you need to be happy; on what is possible. I have a friend that lost it all in Australia (a different friend) and spent months as a hammock-hobo in Melbourne. He says it was the happiest time of his life.

I can relate. My first experience travelling still remains some of my sweetest memories. It was free travel in New Zealand – a smelly backpacking vagabond volunteering, hitching, busking, dumpster diving, and sleeping in parks – and It taught me how beautiful life is. It taught me how kind people are and how simple things can be, should we so choose.

Gratitude turns what we have into enough.

To close, I’d like to repeat what a friend said to me today as we bid farewell (at another hippy farm). He said:

“No, I won’t wish you ‘safe travels’ because everywhere you go, you are safe. You have a good heart and many adventures ahead. I wish you to be free because that is the most important thing.”

And I smiled because I understood (and because he’d just written my outro for me). That’s all it is: be free, travel the world with a good heart, and learn what joy there is in nothing. You don’t need anything to learn how to travel for free.

And you don’t need money to travel.

Ziggy Samuels

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16 Comments

Awesome article for traveller specially who has low budget. Wonderful Insight.

Hey, great blog, read it like 3 times already!!! One question though…do you also get jobs ‘under the table’ with tourist Visa? Cause everyone talks about working and traveling to finance their further travels, but nobody talks about Visa issues. Could I work for a bit of money (whatever crappy job) with a tourist Visa/Visa waiver? And would people actually accept my work for cash on the hand, or can you actually find people who would accept your work for them although it could cause trouble because of the ‘under the table’ issue? Cause Work and travel Visa is too expensive for a broke gal like me and one year a long time for one country. I’m talking more about the ‘getting a bit of cash for travel’ kinda thing. Answers would be so so appreciated. Greetings from germany Svenja

People find, and will continue to find all sort of ways to make it work, Svenja… and so will you I’m sure. Some countries do have very strong rules against this type of thing tho, so it may be better looking for other things to trade for, such as food, accommodation, transport.

Wonderful and surprising information, Thank you

What a blog! Very funny and different, I was delighted with this wonderful content.

😀 dumpster eating

Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful info with us! It is so appreciated and I would suggest you travel once to India

Hahah guess where that first picture of me in the tree is taken? Gokarna, baby! 😀

now i know how to travel, the next thing that is left is how to have guts to travel lol

Just do it, dude – you got this!!! All you gotta do is take the first step :)))

Is panhandling, begging/scamming arrogant rich backpackers and sneaking into peoples bushes/fields to sleep considered douchebaggery?

Scamming people is morally deplorable on every level.

As for sleeping in peoples fields and bushes, well as long as you remember the “leave no trace” principle.

Ziggy Samuels, it is very courageous of you to be able to travel like this. Besides, in the middle of the way, find good people to help you, even without asking. Good luck in this adventure that in a way is the best freedom.

Thanking you kindly, Sam – Perhaps it’s equal parts courage and stupidiity 😉 You’re 100% right though. There are good and kind people everywhere, and often, travel wouldn’t be possible (nor nearly as special) without them.

Last year i traveled for Australia for volunteering work and i can say it was one of the best experience of my life without any cost.

One good App for volunteering work is Workaway and it was that i used.

Interesting, I never thought that one can travel so easily without expenses a penny. But few ideas are really I think works like “volunteering the work” helps one to travel without any cost. I’m curious to check how this work. You shared some great ideas here to work on…Thank you for sharing such wonderful post.

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India Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 23, 2023, india - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

Do not travel to:

• The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
• Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .

Country Summary : Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has occurred at tourist sites and in other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19.  Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

• Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
• Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for India.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in India. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles April 26, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Cholera is  presumed to be present  in India. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera. Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to India.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to India. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to India.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of India take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for India.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in India. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in India, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to India. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

• Arrive within 6 days of leaving an area with risk for YF virus transmission, or
• Have been in such an area in transit (exception: passengers and members of flight crews who, while in transit through an airport in an area with risk for YF virus transmission, remained in the airport during their entire stay and the health officer agrees to such an exemption), or
• Arrive on a ship that started from or touched at any port in an area with risk for YF virus transmission ≤30 days before its arrival in India, unless such a ship has been disinsected in accordance with the procedure recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), or
• Arrive on an aircraft that has been in an area with risk for YF virus transmission and has not been disinsected in accordance with the Indian Aircraft Public Health Rules, 1954, or as recommended by WHO.
• Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda
• Americas: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago (Trinidad only), Venezuela

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in India, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in India. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in India—such as dengue, Zika, filariasis, and leishmaniasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in India include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in India. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call India’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in India. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of India may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in India, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in India, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for India .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in India.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in India, dial 100 or, from a mobile phone, 112. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about India before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on India from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for India for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Most Beautiful Visa-Free Countries For Indians

Here is the list of 72 most beautiful visa-free countries for indians, 1. thailand - the gateway to southeast asia..

This country in South-East Asia is popular for its opulent temples, delicious food, rich cultural heritage and extremely friendly locals. The hospitality of the Thai people is unmatched and this can be seen from every corner of the country. Some of the islands like Koh Samui, Phi Phi and Koh Pha Ngan have also become a tourist hotspot. Visa: No Visa (updated November 2023) Requirements: Passport with at least 6-months validity, A digital photo of you taken in the last 3 months, Your travel dates, Airline Confirmation, Accommodation Details, Credit/debit card or PayPal account for payment Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate ( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

2. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a land of ancient ruins, religious relics, palm-fringed beaches and colourful reefs, balmy rainforests, and local legends. Southern India meets Buddhist Asia. Visa:  No Visa (updated November 2023) Requirements:  ETA  A passport that is valid for a minimum period of 6 months. Airside transit and exit from Srilanka. Travel Documents Proof of sufficient funds for stay Booking details of the stay

3. Malaysia - Truly Asia

Malaysia is actually Asia in true sense. The extremely diverse Malaysia is like two countries clubbed into one separated in half by the South China Sea. While one side if Malaysia is a peninsular region which constitutes of the bustling cities, modern towns, colonial buildings, tea plantations; the other side are the widespread jungles. The only thing that unites everything is FOOD! Visa:  No Visa (updated December 2023) Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity Travel Documents Travel itinerary Return flight ticket with E-Ticket number Hotel reservation or invitation letter from your host Work or Residence Permit if living abroad Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

4. Maldives - A Tropical Haven For Honeymooners

Known For : Stay in an Overwater Bungalow Diving in Maldives Snorkelling in Maldives

This archipelago found in the Indian Ocean south-west of Sri Lanka attracts a large number of travellers because of their white sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean waters. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: Valid for 30 days. Can be extended to 90 days Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Best Time: December to April

103 Maldives Attractions

5. Bhutan - The Happiest Country in All of Asia

Bhutan is one of India's neighbours and a country with which we share good relations. It is known for being the pioneers of the concept of Gross National Happiness Index. Bhutan is a beautiful country with a diverse landscape and wildlife. It promotes tourism and welcomes foreigners but also imposes a fee of USD 250 per day which covers the environmental impact tourism has on the country. But for Indians, no such tax is imposed nor do they require any visa. One can travel to Bhutan by their only national airlines Druk Air or by land. The Government of Bhutan is acutely aware of its unique culture and environment and only allows a limited number of tourists to enter the country at a time. Visa: No Visa (open from 23rd September 2022)  Condition: Seven-day entry-cum-stay permit from the border offices Requirements: 6-month valid Indian Passport Two passport-sized photograph Voter ID Booking Details of your stay A copy of the marriage certificate for couples Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

6. Nepal - On Top of the World

Nepal is India's Northern neighbour, and both share a 'special relationship' which allows the citizens of both the country to move freely across the border. One can go to Nepal without any passport or a visa and can stay and work in the country. Being home to the world's highest mountain Mount Everest, Nepal receives a flock of tourists. Nepal is a beautiful country which has landscapes of various elevations and beautiful countryside. The sights are enthralling and so is the culture and as an Indian citizen, you can easily visit this country by air or road. Moreover, if you are a trekking enthusiast, you cannot give Nepal a miss. Being it next to India, this visa-free country for Indians can also be visited via a road trip! Visa: No Visa Condition: Indian citizens can work and live in Nepal according to the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship. Requirements: Indian Nationals must possess any of the following documents: Passport Voter ID Driving License Ration Card An ID issued by Embassy of India in Kathmandu.

7. Indonesia - Where Culture Meets Nature

Indonesia is a kaleidoscope of taste, sight, sound, and smells bottled up in the world's largest archipelago. Spread out over a mind-boggling 17,000 islands, the country offers a vast melange of experiences begging to be sampled by visitors from across the world. Ranging from the smouldering volcanoes of central Java to the verdant expanses of Bali's rice terraces, from Jakarta's sprawling luxury malls to the untouched marine biosphere of Rajah Ampat and the lush rainforests of Borneo, Indonesia is ripe for adventure for the eager tourist. Visa: Visa on arrival Requirements: A valid passport that does not expire for another 6 months from the date of your arrival Return Tickets Vaccination:  Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

8. Turkey - A Land of Culture with Modern Twist

Settled on the border of Asia and Europe, Turkey is an archive of Islamic Middle East impact and the influence of Christian European West. Turkey at present represents a modern and westernised culture that exists along with its more exotic and esoteric side hidden from the outside world. Explore the dual sides of the country with the natural panoramic landscape, historic places, fertile valleys, huge mountain ranges, rugged coastline and quaint villages. The capital city of Istanbul is the heartbeat of the country buzzing with cafes, bustling bazaars, the aroma of spices, enchanting belly dancers, nightclubs and hammams. Visa: E-Visa Conditions: Indians can apply for E-visa or get a visa on arrival if they are passport holders with a valid visa or resident permit from UK/US/Schengen/Ireland states. Requirements: A 6-month valid passport and other travel documents Return ticket Booking details of the stay Sufficient funds, at least USD 50 per day Travel Insurance Vaccination:  Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

9. Cambodia - A Country Rich in Heritage & Natural Beauty

Cambodia is a country steeped in history. In spite of years and years of struggle, the country has emerged today as a nation with an infectious spirit seen in its people and a tourism business that is flourishing. Home of the famous Angkor Wat and numerous other temples, this country is intoxicating in its beauty, to say the least. Apart from the historical and the cultural, Cambodia is also urbane, boasting of beautiful Phnom Penh, the capital and tonnes of restaurants serving delicious cuisine. Visa:  E-Visa and Visa on Arrival Conditions:  Stay valid for 30 days Applicant Photo,  Passport Personal Details Scan,  Last Page of Passport

10. Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Known For : Anse Lazio Snorkeling in Seychelles Sunbathing in Seychelles

This smallest populated country but a group of over 100 islands within the African archipelago across the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is officially called the “Republic of Seychelles”. A member of the African Union, the more substantial portion of Seychelles is uninhabited and expanded with nature and her resources. Although sultry in climate, prominent parts of the islands are known to be tropical rainforests. Increased humidity is felt between December and April with March and April as the torrid months. Visa: No Visa Condition: No entry for Kosovo passport holders Requirements: Visitor’s permit Valid passport from the period of arrival to departure Minimum of 1 blank page for passport stamping Valid round-trip air tickets Yellow fever certificate, if coming from a prone country

Best Time: April to May, September to October

96 Seychelles Attractions

11. Laos - The Land of Serenity and Bountiful Nature

This South-East Asian country shares a border with Thailand, Vietnam and Myanmar. Known for its spectacular landscape, the country comprises of lofty mountains, lush jungles, glistening rice fields and tea leaves covering the mountain surface. The remote tribal villages, ancient Buddhist caves, rich cultural heritage. Visa: E-visa Conditions: Only single entry allowed. One can stay for 30 days after entry. Requirements: Applicant Photo Passport Personal Details Scan A passport valid for more than 6 months on the day of arrival in Laos.

12. Kenya - The Country That'll Leave You With Memories For a Lifetime

Best known for the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya has a rich history and the tribal culture of the capital city is well depicted by the astounding landmarks, attracting vacationers from all across the globe. The perfect blend of people and attractions has the most thrilling national park, beautiful museums and great markets. Visa: Free (Updated December 2023) Conditions: Visa is valid for 90 days Requirements: Last Page of Passport, Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Proof of Accommodation, Airline Confirmation Vaccination: Should have a   valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

13. Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius is an island country in the Indian Ocean which was once colonised by the Dutch, French and British. It is a diverse country which is home to people of various ethnicities and religious communities. Mauritius is a beautiful country surrounded by white sandy beaches and one of the world's most extensive coral reefs. It has a tropical climate and is home to rare species of flora and fauna. It is visited by a huge number of tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of the islands. Indians can visit the country without any visa and can stay in the country for a maximum of 60 days. Visa: Visa on Arrival Condition: 60 Day Visa on arrival Requirements: Booking Details of stay Sponsor letter 6-month valid Indian Passport Two recent passport size photo Confirmed return ticket 60 days Sufficient funds (USD 100 for per day expense) Vaccination:  Should have a  valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 15 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

14. Singapore - The Quintessential Cosmopolitan

Known For : Gardens by the Bay Sentosa Island Universal Studios Singapore

Representing the spirit of modern Asia, Singapore is a small and progressive island-nation. It is both a city and a country located in Southeast Asia. In Singapore, one can witness the vibrant fusion of cultures, ethnicity, communities and most importantly, people. The place is a complete package full of excitement, surprises and charm, especially for the first time visitors. Visa: E-Visa Conditions: Indian Nationals with a passport can apply for Singapore tourist visa that allows a stay for a maximum of 30 days. They need to have a Visa before their arrival. Requirements: 6-month valid passport with a minimum of two blank pages. Duly filled visa application and form Confirmed return tickets Two recent passport size photographs A covering letter with details of traveller. Sufficient funds for stay - Original Bank statements. Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Best Time: January to November

270 Singapore Attractions

15. Madagascar

An island found just of the course of south-east Africa. Famous for its towering rainforests and diverse wildlife, make it the perfect destination for wildlife lovers. Its landscape makes it perfect for adventure sports such as hiking, kitesurfing,rock-climbing and kitesurfing. Visa:  E-visa  Conditions: Passport should be valid for at least six months before the date of arrival and should have at least two blank pages. Single entry visa only. Requirements: A credit/debit card or a PayPal account Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination), A negative RT-PCR report taken within 72 hours before boarding.

16. Moldova

Found between Romania and Ukraine, this pastoral country has acres of farmlands and a large number of vineyards. Moldova doesn’t get nearly as much attention as the other European countries but it’s rich culture, monasteries, museums and cathedrals make for an interesting travel destination. Visa: E-visa Requirements: Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Return Ticket, Proof of Accommodation, Bank Statement, Travel Medical Insurance Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

17. Myanmar

Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar is a South-East Asian country surrounded by Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. It’s beautiful Buddhist temples and picturesque lakes make Myanmar a popular tourist destination. Visa:  E-visa Conditions:  single entry with a total of 28 days of stay Requirements:  Passport with at least 6 months of validity,  A scanned color copy of passport bio page,  A recent color passport-sized digital photo,  Credit/debit card or PayPal account for payment Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) or A negative RT-PCR report taken within 72 hours before boarding.

18. Jordan - The Land of Mesmerizing Beauty

Jordan is the Arabic nation that lies on the Eastern bank of the Jordan River. Jordan shares its bores with Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel and Palestine. Jordan is home to various ancient and religious sites. Go for the spectacular dead sea, historic and desert landscapes and warm hospitality of the people. Visa: Jordan Pass Conditions: Single Entry, Maximum stay is up to 30 days Requirements: A credit/debit card or a PayPal account, a valid passport with at least 6 months validity Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

This hidden gem is an archipelago of islands tucked away in the western pacific ocean. This tropical paradise also has many remnants from WWII such as the WWII museum, tanks and an infantry lookout. However it’s cool blue waters, colourful coral reefs and diverse marine species make it a divers delight. Visa:  Visa on arrival Requirements: A valid passport with one blank page, Confirmed return ticket, Sufficient funds for stay - Original Bank statements. Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Referred to as the ‘land of a thousand hills’, Rwanda’s lush green forests are home to a variety of species such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, leopards, sunbirds, fish eagles and hippos. This makes Rwanda the perfect spot for nature lovers and bird watchers. Visa:  East Africa E-Visa for Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda Requirements:  Passport Personal Details Scan, Applicant Photo Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination), A negative RT-PCR report taken within 72 hours before boarding.

21. Saint Lucia

This island country is found in the Caribbean is famous for its scenic beauty and unique sulfur springs that are found all over the island.The ‘pitons’ of Saint Lucia which are volcanic rock formation is a UNESCO world heritage site. This humble little island offers amazing scenery and a rich cultural heritage that will stay with you for a lifetime. Visa:  No visa Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Often called the ‘Cradle of Polynesia’, Samoa is a part of the Polynesian islands and is 3 hours away from New Zealand by plane. This gorgeous island is famous for scuba diving, snorkelling and many other adventure sports. The warmth and the generosity of the Samoan people cannot be understated. Visa:  Permit on Arrival Conditions:  Stay is up to 60 days Requirements:  Passport must be valid up to 6 months,  Blank pages on the passport must be present,  Passport photo Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination), A negative RT-PCR report taken within 48 hours before boarding.

23. Somalia

Found in East Africa near Ethiopia and Kenya, Somalia has many bustling markets, cathedrals and mosques that make for a memorable trip. ‘The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier’ is another famous tourist attraction which has been around for more than 60 years. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: Visa issued is valid for 90 days with a maximum stay of 30 days. Requirements: Passport valid up to 6 months, 1 blank passport page Vaccination:  Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

24. Tanzania - The Canvas of Natural Beauty

Tucked away in South-East Africa with Kenya to it’s north and Mozambique to the south, Tanzania is an absolute paradise for nature lovers. Home to a wide variety of animals such as lions, elephants, rhinos and leopards the Serengeti National Park is frequently visited by a large number of tourists. The famous Kilimanjaro mountain is also found here. Visa: E-visa Conditions:  The passport must have at least 6 months of validity after the estimated arrival date. Requirements: A passport-quality photo, A copy of your personal passport details, A copy of your airline ticket Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

This West African country offers palm-fringed beaches and hiking trails make it the perfect destination for people who love the outdoors. There are many villages that can be visited by tourists which gives people an idea of how they preserve their culture and practices. Visa: Visa on Arrival Requirements:   A valid passport with one blank page, Confirmed return ticket, Proof of accommodations, Travel Insurance. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

26. East Timor (Timor-Leste)

This South-East Asian island is right beneath Indonesia and is slowly becoming a hub for tourists. It’s beautiful corals and marine mammals make it ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. Visit the Delli museum and the Timorese Resistance Archive to see how their vibrant culture has withstood the fires of many wars which shows through in the resilience of the people. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: Single entry with 30 days of stay. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Tuvalu consists of 9 islands in the South Pacific which are dotted with coral reefs making it the perfect diving spot. Its waters are home to many turtles and tropical fish. It is one of the most beautiful islands in the world, often overlooked due to its location. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30 days stay Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Found in East Africa with Kenya to the east and Congo to the west, Uganda is blessed with many rare birds and animals. Kibale National Park in Uganda is home to many animals such as the mountain gorilla, golden monkey, Nile crocodile and the African lion. Visa:  E-visa Conditions:  Valid up to 90 days Requirements:  Last Page of Passport, Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Yellow Fever Vaccination Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Located in southern Africa, sandwiched between Angola and Zimbabwe. Filled with many parks and safari areas Zambia is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Its landscape is quite diverse, consisting mainly of meandering rivers, elephant grasslands, rolling hills and majestic waterfalls. Visa:  E-visa Conditions:  Valid for 90 days Requirements:  Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Proof of Accommodation, Airline Confirmation, Cover Letter, Last Page of Passport Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

30. Zimbabwe - Your Dose of Adrenaline

It is the country of wonders and known to be every adrenaline junkie's dreamland, this country has a lot to offer. Despite the struggles it has faced, Zimbabwe is still one of the most popular tourist locations in Africa. Zimbabwe proudly displays its rare blend of music, art, and dance. One cannot help being mesmerized by its beautiful landscapes, captivating art, and exotic wildlife. Visa: E-Visa Conditions: Valid for 90 days Requirements: Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Last Page of Passport, Proof of Accommodation, Proof of Residence, Invitation Letter Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

31. Svalbard

It is a Norwegian archipelago located between Norway and the North Pole. Svalbard is covered in snow through most of the year and is home to the arctic fox and the reindeer. Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis a real visual spectacle is visible from here. Visa: No visa required Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

32. Turks and Caicos Islands

It is a cluster of islands found in the Atlantic Ocean and pool in about a million tourists a year. This tropical paradise has a number of caves and great diving spots. Its untouched waters are home to a large number of coral reefs. Its beaches are also famous for kiteboarding, wakeboarding, parasailing, windsurfing and kayaking. Visa: No visa required for a stay up to 90 days Requirements: A valid passport, a round trip ticket Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Serbia is a landlocked Balkan country in Central Europe. This unique tourist destination is known for its Mountain ranges, spas and Orthodox monasteries. Belgrade, the capital of Serbia is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Visa: No Tourist Visa Requirements:  No visas are required for visits of up to 30 days, within a period of one year for normal passport holders No visas are required for visits of up to 90 days for diplomatic and official passport holders.

34. Fiji - Under the Trees, Against the Beach

Fiji is a beautiful island country in the South Pacific Ocean and has an abundant amount of flora and fauna. The economy of the nation flourishes, and it has a thriving tourism industry. Fiji has a tropical climate, and the weather remains the same throughout the year. Here, you can take walks on the beaches lined with coconut palm trees and indulge in scuba diving. It is the ideal vacation spot especially for Indians as one doesn't need to procure a visa before going to Fiji. You will be given a visitor permit which is valid up to 4 months as long as you have a valid passport. Visa: Visa on Arrival Requirements: Passport Valid for 6 Months Two recent passport-sized photographs Proof of funds such as bank statements Return or Outbound tickets Booking Details of your stay A copy of travel itinerary or ticket Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

35. Dominica - Land of Natural Treasures

Known For : Cabrits National Park Kalinago Barana Aute Trafalgar Falls

Dominica is a Caribbean island country whose economy hugely depends on tourism and agriculture. Dominica is a beautiful tourist destination as it had a diverse landscape consisting of mountains, rainforests, lakes, rivers, national parks and the world's second-largest hot spring, Boiling Lake. You can travel to the country through the air or by road and be a part of their vibrant culture. You can take long walks on the beaches, go on a jungle safari or indulge in hiking. Indians do not require a tourist visa and can stay for a maximum of 90 days. Visa: No Visa Conditions: All the citizens of countries that are the contracting parties to the Schengen agreement can stay without a visa for a maximum of 90 days. Requirements: Passport, Proof of funds, Confirmed onward and return ticket, Confirmation of stay. Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Best Time: February to May

9 Dominica Attractions

36. Jamaica - The Land Rich in History and Natural Beauty

Known For : Waterfalls Seven Mile Beach Ras Natango Gallery and Garden

Jamaica is another Caribbean island country and also the fourth largest in the Caribbean sea. It has a humid and hot climate which varies as per the elevation. It is home to a variety of flora like rainforests, coral reefs, wetlands, caves, rivers and a diverse fauna like hummingbirds, red-billed streamertails, a freshwater turtle called Jamaican slider, Jamaican Tody, among others. Jamaica is a beautiful tropical country which can be easily visited by Indian citizens. One doesn't require a visa for entering the nation and can stay up to 14 days without one. Visa: No Visa Condition: Indian Nationals will not need a visa for stay up to 30 days. Requirements:  Passport valid for the period of intended stay, Sufficient funds for stay, Confirmed to and fro tickets, Booking Details for the stay. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) or a negative RT-PCR report taken within 72 hours before boarding.

Best Time: November to December

8 Jamaica Attractions

37. Saint Kitts and Nevis - The Islandic Duo

Located in Caribbean Basin, Saint Kitts and Nevis is a sovereign island state. The country consists of two islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis and is quite small with a population of around 54000. Majority of the people live closer to the sea, and a lot of the rainforests are uninhabited. The country is famous for its vibrant music culture like the annual Saint Kitts Music Festival. Tourism is the backbone of the economy, and the government thoroughly promotes it. It is quite easy to acquire citizenship of this island country. Indian citizens do not have to apply for a visa to visit this country. Visa: No Visa Conditions: For stay more than 30 days, Indian Nationals need to apply for a visa at the Consulate (consular embassy section or high commission) Requirements:  6-month valid passport, Proof of sufficient funds for stay, Return ticket, Booking Details for the stay Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination).

38. Micronesia - Country of 607 Islands

Micronesia is a sovereign island country located in the Pacific Ocean which is administered by the United States. Micronesia consists of various small islands which are not developed. It is a remote country, but it is also has a lot of unexploited natural beauty. You can quickly reach the nation by air. Micronesia has an English speaking population and a unique culture. As an Indian national, you can visit the country easily without a visa and can stay up to 30 days as long as you have a valid passport. Visa: No Visa Conditions: Visa is not required for a minimum stay of 30 days which can be extended to 60 days. Requirements:  A valid passport and other travel document issued by the government that is valid for 120 days or above, A proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay, Booking details of Stay, Return tickets. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

39. Vanuatu - A Packet of Unexpected Things

Vanuatu, located in the South Pacific Ocean is an independent island nation. It consists of many islands, mostly of volcanic origin. There are many active volcanoes on the island and is home to the animal flying fox. The weather here usually remains hot, and it rains here often. Tourism is a vital source of foreign exchange for the country, and the government promotes it. The country has a diverse culture and a beautiful and serene atmosphere where you can explore the marine life, go for hikes through the forests, or enjoy the music culture of the country. Indians are exempted from a visa and can stay up to a maximum of 30 days. Visa: No Visa Conditions: For a stay of up to 30 days, Visa isn't required. You can apply for the visa if you want your stay extended. Requirements:  A passport valid for 6 months, Proof of sufficient funds for stay, Return tickets, Other travel or government documents. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

40. El Salvador - Country of Nights & Beaches

El Salvador is a country in Central America that's quite densely populated. The country is inhabited by many volcanoes and has a tropical climate. El Salvador's economy depends highly on tourism, and it is visited mainly for its nightlife and beaches. Surfing is also quite popular among the tourists. El Salvador is an urbanised nation where the official language is Spanish. Indian citizens travelling to this country do not need a visa. Visa: Visa on Arrival Conditions: Tourists can apply for Visa at their arrival and can obtain a tourist card with three months of validity. Requirements: Valid passport for at least six months validity, An application form that's completed and signed, Two passports sized photographs, Copy of return ticket and itinerary, Proof of sufficient funds for stay. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

41. Macau - Las Vegas of the Far East

Known For : St Paul's Ruins Senado Square The Venetian Macao

Macau is a country on the continent of Asia which is equivalent to the Las Vegas of U.S.A. It was once colonised by the Portuguese and today lies in the Chinese sovereign. People visit the autonomous territory of Macau for its luxurious casinos and hotels. It is an urban city with a coastline. The economy of the country depends highly on tourism and gambling. Macau is a place where you can try your luck as there is a multitude of avenues at your disposal. The travel restrictions into the country are very less and Indians can visit visa-free and can stay for a maximum of 30 days in Macau. Visa: No Visa Condition: For a stay for more than 14 days, Indians can apply for a visa at the Hong Kong immigration office. Requirements: Passport with a minimum of 60 months validity, Return ticket within 14 days out of Hong Kong, Proof of Employment, Booking Details for the stay, International credit and foreign currency. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Best Time: Middle of October to December.

66 Macau Attractions

42. Oman - Gateway to the Charming Arab World

Oman is an Arab country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Though there is no diversity in religion here, you will find a variety of tranquil landscapes and sceneries. The beauty of beaches, the history and intricate designs of forts, the lush green mountains, unique wildlife and endless deserts will give you a shot in the arm. You will find local bazaars or souks thrust with handicrafts and the most famous item of Oman-frankincense. Cleanliness along with strict laws will blow away your mind. Kind-hearted, helpful and law-abiding people add up to make this country a must-visit place. Visa:  E-visa Conditions: . Oman Visa will be granted to those who reside in or hold an entry to US/ UK/ Canada/ Australia/ Japan or any of Schengen nations. Oman Tourism has also granted an exemption to the spouse/children of the Visa holder who can avail the visa if they are accompanying the visa holder even if they don't hold a visa to any of the above-mentioned countries. Requirements: A 6 months valid passport, Confirmed ticket and hotel accommodation, Scanned copy of a coloured photograph. Vaccination:  Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and a negative RT-PCR test result.

43. Grenada - The Spice Island

Located in the Carribean Sea as part of the West Indies, Grenada is popularly known as the land of spices. An island towards the end of a chain of six other islands called the Grenadines, Grenada Island has a volcanic-based surface. Rich in soil fertility, the island is mostly humid during monsoons and is more relaxed during the drier seasons; when rainfall drastically decreases.  Visa: No visa for stay up to 90 days. Requirements: Valid passport for six months from the day of departure, A minimum of one blank page for passport stamping, Round-trip air ticket, Yellow fever certificates (certifying vaccination).  Vaccination:  Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) or a negative RT-PCR report taken within 48 hours before boarding.

44. Haiti - The Former Pearl of the Antilles

Formerly known as Hayti and officially called the ‘Republic of Haiti’, Haiti is the second most populated island of the Great Antilles, one of the significant Caribbean archipelagos. Prone to natural calamities, this highly mountainous island adorns the typical equatorial climate; hot and humid through most of the year. The island receives major rainfall in two cycles; April to June and October to November.  Visa: No Visa for stay up to 90 days  Requirements: (For nationals exempted from visa requirements) Six-month valid passport, Tourist fee of USD 10 to be paid at the airport. Requirements for visa nationals: Filled and attested application form, Two passport size colour photos, Valid passport, Photocopy of round-trip air tickets or booking confirmation, Letter from the traveller’s present employer, Explanation letter regarding the reason and duration of stay, with references in Haiti Name, address and telephone number of the residence or hotel the traveller would be staying in or that of a friend or a family member. The tourist fee would be USD 25, This one-time valid visa is valid for three months. Vaccination:  Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

45. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - The Anglo-Caribbean Island

With a past colonial history, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is now popularly known as Saint Vincent for short. It occupies the southern part of the Lesser Antilles, a portion of the Caribbean which bleeds into South America. The island on the whole consists of 32 other smaller islands, forming the Anglo-Caribbean country. As a result of two major volcanic mountains, the island is rich in fertile soil embedded on volcanic ash and remains. The dry season is usually between January and May, with monsoons from June to December.  Visa: No Visa required for a stay of up to 30 days. Requirements: Valid passport for six months from arrival, Import licenses for any food imports, Yellow fever certificate, Departure tax. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

46. Senegal - Land of the Pink Lake

This West African country is the hub for some of Africa’s most beautiful landscapes and touristy elements. Some of which are the pink lake, stargazing through the desert, the island of shells and much more. Towards the west of the African continent, the weather in Senegal is typically tropical; also known as Sahelian weather. The least temperature drops to 18 degrees and the highest shoots up to 30 and 32 degrees. Indians can stay in Senegal for up to 90 days without a visa. Visa: No visa Requirements: Valid passport for at least six months from the date of arrival A minimum of two blank pages for passport stamping Valid round-trip air tickets including payment Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

47. Mauritania

This country is located in North-west Africa near Mali and Algeria. Its rich history is preserved in its monuments and ruins. Desert safaris, hiking, kite-surfing and fishing are some of the popular tourist activities. Visa:  Visa on Arrival Requirements:  Valid passport for at least six months from the date of arrival Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

48. Trinidad and Tobago - The Twins of the South

The twin-island country of South West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago, formally known as the “The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago” is situated towards the south of Grenada. Famous for its forms of music and festivities; one of which is Diwali, these twin islands see tropical weather for most of the year. Most of the traditions in the island overlap with that of India, such as temples, Hinduism, Hindu festivals etc. Visa: No visa Requirements: A six-month valid passport from the date of arrival to departure, Valid round-trip tickets, Adequate health or medical insurances, Sufficient funds to support the stay Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

49. Montserrat - Emerald Isle

Located in the Caribbean, Monserrat is another significant part of the Lesser Antilles. Damaged by massive volcanic eruptions nearly 25 years ago, this emerald isle has been back in the game only in recent years. Prone to hurricanes, the island adorns an equatorial climate, with lowest temperatures touching around 21 degrees and highest soaring as high as 30 degrees. As part of the territories subjected British jurisdiction, North American culture has had a significant influence on Montserrat. Visa: No visa requirement for stay up to 180 days Condition: 14 days of stay allowed in case of passport absence Requirements: Valid passport from time of arrival to departure, Minimum of one blank page for passport stamping, Valid round-trip tickets. Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

50. Bahrain - Concoction of liberalism, diversity and prosperity

Known For : Arad Fort Reef Island Al-Khamis Mosque

Bahrain is a nation in Arabian Gulf comprising of 30 islands. Geographically, Bahrain is a flat and arid archipelago. The country has rich trading history, therefore, has a large number of archaeological sites and tourist attractions. Manama, the capital of Bahrain was chosen as the Arab Capital of Culture in 2012 and Capital of Arab Tourism in 2013 by the Arab League. Visa: E-Visa Requirements: A photocopy of the photo page of the applicant's passport. Indian passport holders must additionally supply a copy of the passport's last page, A copy of a return air ticket, A copy of your hotel booking in Bahrain, A copy of a stamped bank statement under the visitor's name dated within the past three months with an ending balance of no less than the equivalent of 800 USD.

Best Time: December to March

25 Bahrain Attractions

51. Cape Verde

Cape Verde is a volcanic archipelago in the North-Western coast of Africa and is known for its mixed Creole Portuguese-African culture. Cape Verde offers a pleasant climate with sunshine for the maximum time of the year. Adventure activities like diving, windsurfing, sailing and trekking are very popular among tourists. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: Single entry and a maximum of 30 days stay Requirements: A current valid passport, Your travel dates, A credit/debit card or a Paypal account

52. Comoros

Comoros in a volcanic archipelago in the Eastern Coast of Africa. Comoros has a number of picturesque beaches and mountain sceneries but the tourism industry faces competition from Mauritius, Seychelles and Réunion. Visa: Visa on arrival Requirements: a valid passport that does not expire for at least 6 months beyond your date of arrival

53. Ivory Coast (Cote d’Ivoire)

Ivory Coast or Cote d’Ivoire is a Western-African country with aa rich French colonial history. The country has beautiful beaches and rainforests. There are some hiking trails in Banko National Park which is a preserved rainforest. Photo safaris are very popular in the forests of Ivory Coast. Visa: E-visa Conditions: Multiple entries, maximum of 30 days stay Requirements: Passport Personal Details Scan, Return Ticket, Proof of Accommodation

54. Djibouti

Djibouti is located in the horn of Africa and shares borders with Ethiopia, Somalia and Eritrea. The language spoken is French, Arabic, Somali and Afar. Lake Assal, the lowest point on earth is located in this small country. The country offers diverse landscapes including salt lakes, extinct volcanoes, huge canyons and sunken plains. Visa:  E-visa Conditions:  Single entry, up to 90 days of stay Requirements:  Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Airline Confirmation, Proof of Accommodation

55. Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a land-locked country located in the horn of Africa. Ethiopia has a rich history with archaeological finds that date back to more than 3 million years! Ethiopia had escaped "scramble for Africa" and is said to have retained its cultural identity. Ethiopia is a popular adventure trip and trekking destination. The country has 9 of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. Visa: E-visa Requirements: Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan, Last Page of Passport

Gabon lies on the western coast of central Africa. 11.25% of the country's land is preserved as national parkland. Gabon offers a variety of landscapes from white-sand beaches to rainforests to savannas. You may even find hippopotamuses play on the beaches! Visa: E-visa Conditions: Visa valid till 30 days of arrival Requirements: Applicant Photo, Passport Personal Details Scan

57. Georgia

This former Soviet-Republic lies in the intersection of Europe and Asia. From Caucasus Mountain villages to Black Sea beaches, Georgia offers diverse landscapes. Other than that, the winemaking industry in Georgia dates back to 8000 years! Georgia is a favourite destination for history and nature lovers. Visa: E-visa Conditions: Multiple entries, valid till 30 days per entry Requirements: Copy of passport personal details, Passport photo, Accommodation details, Your travel dates, Credit/debit card or PayPal Account

58. Cook Islands

Consisting of 15 small islands, the Cook Islands is a free governing island country located in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand. Spread over 770,000 square miles of sea, it is a perfect vacation destination with beaches, mountains and deep jungles. Swimming with the turtles is a loved activity, like snorkelling, sightseeing and cycle tours.  Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 31-day stay allowed Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel booking Proof of travel purpose Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

59. Marshall Islands

Officially known as the Republic of the Marshall Islands consists of 1200 islands and islets in the Pacific Ocean, spread about 180,000 square miles of the sea. The crystal clear waters of the lagoons is a sight to behold, while coral reefs and beautiful marine life is a perfect chance to go snorkelling and swimming. Do indulge in one of the most famous diving activities at Bikini Atoll.  Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30-day stay allowed; can be extended to 90 days. Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return tickets  Travel Documents Proof of Measles Vaccination Vaccination : Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

Being one of the smallest countries in the world, Niue is a beautiful island with one of the largest coral reef atolls. It is located in the South Pacific Ocean with a land area of 261 square kilometres. Don’t be surprised to see strangers greet you; you will see it a lot here. Explore the caves, beaches, rock pools and beautiful reefs.  Visa: No Visa Conditions: 30-day stay allowed Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return tickets  Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and negative PCR Test results.

Iran is a country in southwest Asia, also known as the Islamic Republic of Iran, with an area of 1,648,195 km² covered by two water bodies, i.e., the Gulf of Oman in the south and the Caspian sea in the north. The country has fascinating historical and religious sites, museums, gardens and great places to shop and eat authentic food.  Visa: Visa on arrival Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Grant Notice Proof of return tickets Travel itinerary Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination).

62. Qatar - Royalty Redefined

In just forty years, this Gulf state has grown from one of the poorest countries in the Gulf to the richest in the world. Mainly functioning on oil and natural gas revenue, Qatar is developing at breakneck speed, and everything from universities to shopping malls, 5-star hotels to football stadiums (in preparation for the 2022 World Cup) are springing up along the desert floor. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30-day stay allowed Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel booking Proof of travel purpose Travel Insurance Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

63. Albania

Packed with adventure and beautiful landscapes, Albania is a beautiful country in southeastern Europe waiting to be discovered. With an area of 28,748 km², the place has it all, from majestic mountains for hiking and trekking, the Ionian coasts with beautiful clear waters, Marianas( ports for tourists) to beautiful dynamic cities.  Visa:  E-visa or No visa if you have a Schengen/UK/US visa Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and two blank visa page Proof of return tickets Proof of funds for the stay Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and negative PCR Test results 72 hours before boarding the flight.

64. Barbados

Brimming with life, Barbados has everything from activities and attractions to beaches, adventure, nightlife, culinary experience, and history & heritage. It is an island country located in the Caribbean region of the Americas. Also known as the birthplace of rum, make sure to taste one of the oldest rum.  Visa: No visa for a stay up to 90 days Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return tickets  Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

65. British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

Known For : The Baths Rhone Marine Park (Salt Island) Fallen Jerusalem National Park

An overseas territory of Britain, British Virgin Islands is nothing but beautiful and an enchanting place to be. With still a major chunk of the islands untouched, this archipelago features all the gorgeous things from rolling green hills, verdant mountainous landscape, reef-lined sparkling beaches and popular shipwrecks. Visa: No visa Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel booking Proof of Evident funds Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

13 British Virgin Islan Attractions

66. Bolivia - The Roof Top of the World.

Bolivia is an expansive, landlocked plateau of barren plains, lush jungles, fertile highland valleys, and snow-capped Andean peaks. Bolivia is a country of wonders situated in west-central South America. This country is filled with wonders. Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest deposit of salt in the world. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30-day stay Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel booking Proof of financial resources Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination)

67. Botswana

Botswana is a country in southern Africa with a total area of 581,730 square kilometres. This place lets you take a closer peek into the area's wildlife with multiple activities and safari tours. If you are a nature lover, then this place is just right for you, where you can camp in many national parks of Botswana.   Visa: E-visa Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return tickets Proof of accommodations Travel itinerary Marriage certificate for couples Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and negative PCR Test results 72 hours before boarding the flight.

68. Burundi

Located in East-central Africa, Burundi is a land of four mystical corners with hills, beaches, clear water lakes and serene rain forests. It is a vacation destination filled with culture, heritage, nature and delicious diverse cuisines. One such place you should not miss out on! Visa: Visa on arrival for a stay of up to 30 days Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity Two passport-size photos Proof of return tickets Hotel bookings Yellow Fever vaccination certificate Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and negative PCR Test results 72 hours before boarding the flight.

69. Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau is a mix and match of landscape, people, culture, animal and plant life. The country is located west of Africa, right next to the Atlantic Ocean, spread over 36,125 square kilometres. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30-day stay allowed Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel bookings Yellow fever vaccination certificate Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and negative PCR Test results 42 hours before boarding the flight.

70. Mozambique - The mascot of coastal elegance.

Known For : Praia do Tofo FEIMA - Feira de Artesanato, Flores e Gastronomica Inhaca Island

Mozambique is an African coastal country adjacent to South Africa. The Great Indian Ocean shares the coast.  The historical monuments, the blue-lined coasts, green-topped forests, the flavour of the authentic Mozambiquan cuisine and the flawlessly crafted artworks all stay loyal to preserving Mozambique's top spot on the tourists' wish list. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30-day stay Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel booking Proof of financial resources Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination Entry Form Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and a negative PCR Test result taken within 72 hours before boarding the flight.

Best Time: May to November

8 Mozambique Attractions

71. Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, a country in western Africa, boarded by the Atlantic Ocean on the west, is a perfect destination for a close-to-nature vacation. It is surrounded by hills, valleys, lagoons, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes. The secret beaches with serene sunset and sunrise views are a sight to behold. Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 30-day stay allowed Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel bookings Yellow fever vaccination certificate Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination) and a negative PCR Test result before boarding the flight.

72. Tunisia

Tunisia is a perfect sand and sea holiday destination with its Mediterranean coast and white sandy beaches. The thrilling water activities, swimming in the clear waters, and fresh fish cuisines add up to a splendid experience. The other part of the country is forested and deserted.  Visa: Visa on arrival Conditions: 90-day stay allowed Requirements: Passport with at least 6-month validity and one blank visa page Proof of return/onward tickets  Hotel booking Vaccination: Should have a valid COVID 19 vaccination certificate( at least 14 days have passed since the second dose of vaccination).

As an Indian national, one has visa-free access to these countries, thus granting one a lot of freedom to travel and see the world. Some of the most beautiful and culturally different visa-free countries for Indians have been mentioned above which are worth adding to your bucket list.

This post was published by Holidify.com

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5 essential travel tips for first-time visitors to India

India is a land of contrasts, with a rich and diverse culture that is sure to amaze and captivate visitors from all over the world however, it can also be a challenging place to travel , especially for first-time visitors. This is why it is important to plan your trip carefully and be aware of the potential challenges you may face.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Harish Khatri, Founder and MD at India Assist, suggested a few tips that can help you make your first trip to India a pleasant and hassle-free experience -

• Prioritise Your Health:

When you are on a journey, whether it's a leisurely vacation or a business trip, your health should always be a top priority. India, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be explored. However, unexpected situations can arise and that's where travel assistance services step in to ensure your well-being remains safeguarded throughout your voyage.

• Swiftly Adapting to Changes:

Travel plans are known to take unexpected turns. Missed trains, itinerary changes, or unforeseen emergencies can disrupt your carefully crafted schedule. This is where expertise in handling these challenges becomes invaluable. With swift adaptability and seamless solutions provided by your travel assistance partner, you can navigate through these challenges with ease, allowing you to make the most of your time in India.

• Round-the-Clock Guidance:

Just as the sun sets in one part of the world, it simultaneously rises in another. This highlights the significance of having access to a 24/7 help desk, ensuring unwavering support, regardless of the time. Whether you're in need of guidance, assistance, or simply seeking recommendations, discreet help should be just a call away. It is a wise idea to get travel assistance services that cater to providing round-the-clock support in general. You can avail this assistance through your travel agent, tour operator or hotel partner.

The travel expert advised, “As you prepare for your journey in India, these three pillars of support should offer peace of mind. Health, adaptability, and constant guidance are the cornerstones of a pleasant and hassle-free voyage. Whether you're exploring India's vibrant culture, its natural beauty, or conducting business, having these travel assistance services integrated into your journey ensures you can focus on creating cherished memories.”

Bringing his expertise to the same Vikas Sharma, Chief Executive Officer at Encalm Hospitality Pvt., said, “Planning a memorable vacation experience to India or anywhere around the world is often an intimidating task. To begin with, organize your travel in a way so that it fulfills all your necessities and requirements. One thing that everyone on a vacation deserves is comfort and relaxation. Furthermore, to genuinely embrace a rejuvenating and enriching getaway, it's imperative for your mind to be unburdened and free from stress. Prioritising your overall well-being is essential for embarking on a hassle-free journey. A vacation does not serve its purpose if it doesn’t focus on you in the first place. Choose experiences that choose you.”

He recommended -

1. Get assistance services for comfort/Meet and Greet Service

Airports are bustling hubs of activity and commencement. With travelers' needs and demands becoming more refined, there is a growing emphasis on creating specialised meet and greet services that place the well-being and convenience of travelers at the forefront. These airports meet and greet services embrace a comprehensive strategy aimed at delivering extraordinary experiences. You can take the pain out of your travelling endeavors by opting for a meet and greet service at the airport which assists you in airport formalities including carrying your baggage via a porter service. With trained professionals welcoming guests at the entrance and guiding them all the way to board their flight, these services are committed to assisting travelers at every stage of their journey.

2. Lounges:

Premier airport lounges are redefining luxury, offering plenty of world-class services and amenities that will leave you impressed. From exclusive menus crafted by chefs, cigar rooms, and spas to grand decor, luxury airport lounges are being designed to cater to the business class travellers. There are lounges at airports that value their guests and their fruitful experience and it only gravitates more love and positivity. Encalm Privé lounge at Terminal-3 (T3), meant exclusively for business and first-class travellers. This world class lounge facility aims to provide a premium travel experience, ensuring that every guest enjoys a seamless journey in the tranquil and exclusive setting of the lounge.

He concluded, “Lounges offers a comfortable seating area, a bar, a multi-cuisine buffet area, live food counters, a kids’ play area, a library, a business centre with workstations and meeting rooms with a serene ambiance. They serve as the leisure and relaxation escapades at airports alongside offering free Wi-Fi, charging ports and other amenities that help you stay connected and productive.”

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Sri lanka extends visa-free access for indian tourists.

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Thailand has extended visa-free entry for Indians until November 2024

By Condé Nast Traveller

If you thought you had lost your chance to enjoy visa-free access to Thailand’s beautiful beaches, islands and delicious food, there’s good news for you. In November 2023, Thailand announced that it would be granting visa-free entry to Indians for six months, until 10 May 2024. Now, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has announced an extension to the facility, allowing visa-free entry to Indians for six extra months—until 10 November 2024.

Earlier, Indians required a visa-on-arrival to travel to Thailand, which allowed them a stay of up to 15 days. With Thailand’s visa-free entry facility, Indians can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days.

As per news reports , the extension is a result of the success of the facility. Thailand welcomed about 12 million tourists in the first four months of 2024, a 39% increase from the same period last year. India is among the largest contributors to tourism in Thailand, along with China, South Korea, Malaysia and more. The visa-free entry facility applies to tourists from India and Taiwan.

If you plan to travel to Thailand, you can make the most of the country’s shoulder seasons , which last from April to June and September to October—if you’re willing to brave the heat in favour of lower hotel and flight rates. There is, of course, plenty to do in Thailand, from discovering the turquoise waters of Koh Kood and finding the best street-eats in Bangkok , to staying at a railway-themed hotel and dining at Michelin-starred restaurants .