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The 15 most spectacular places to visit in India

Dec 11, 2023 • 14 min read

Expect fairy-tale-like drama against a desert backdrop in magical Jaisalmer, Rajasthan © Andrii Lutsyk/ Getty Images

India’s astonishing variety of sights has to be seen to be believed. Travelers have devoted lifetimes to exploring the famous places and forgotten corners of this incredible country, driven onwards by the certainty that there’s always more to see.

Mughal palaces, towering Hindu temples, mountain monasteries, lost kingdoms, cultured cities, and genteel hill stations in the foothills of the Himalayas all jostle for attention in a country that is proudly shaking off the legacy of colonialism and repositioning itself as a global superpower. With such incredible diversity on offer, there’s just one question – where do you start?

Well, our advice is to not take on too much during a single visit. Pick an area – the tropical south perhaps, or the northern plains, or the mountain valleys of the Himalayas – and give yourself time to pause and soak up the atmosphere as you work through your must-see list .

Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed a mind-expanding and exhilarating blast of color, soul-soaring splendor, earth-shaking history and moments of pure serenity. Equal parts magic and mayhem, this mix is what makes traveling to India such an intense and addictive experience.

While this was no easy list to compile, we’re proud to present our pick of the ten best places to visit in India.

1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Best for romantics and fans of Mughal history

At the top of everyone’s bucket list, the Taj Mahal is as glorious as people imagine it would be – a magnificent monument to lost love, executed in pearl-white marble. Views of the world’s most beautiful building framed by a Mughal archway or floating above the misty Yamuna River will be one of the defining moments of any trip to India.

But there’s more to the former Mughal capital than the Taj. Add on a couple of days so you can visit the architecturally stunning tomb of  Emperor Akbar , his rose-red sandstone former capital at Fatehpur Sikri and sprawling Agra Fort , one of India’s most epic fortifications. Thronged by millions of visitors, Agra is not always relaxing, but it’s eternally fascinating.

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Best for intense spirituality

There are few places as beguiling and bewitching as the sacred Hindu city of Varanasi . Millennia-old death rituals play out daily at the cremation ghats that line the bank of the sacred River Ganges, while the maze-like alleyways of the nearby old town reveal dizzying surprises at every turn. We defy anyone to visit without experiencing some internal soul-searching about their place in the universe.

Be ready for some challenges. The hard-edged realities of life and death and the inequalities that continue to cause hardship for many in India are obvious on the streets of the world’s oldest living city. But there are also moments of gentleness – rise at dawn and wander the ghats (riverside steps) and you’ll see Varanasi at its most spiritual, with its attention focused on the sacred river, before the tourist bustle changes the mood.

Planning tip: The best way to appreciate Varanasi’s famous ghats is from a rowboat. Boatmen offer their services from first light at boat stations along the west bank of the Ganges, providing views of a riverfront that has changed only superficially in seven centuries.

3. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Best for urban explorers and Bollywood hopefuls

Mumbai is the perfect place to take the pulse of modern India. The most densely populated city in the subcontinent is home to Bollywood film stars, enterprising market vendors, bankers and executives rushing to work in offices, and fishing families who can trace their origins back to the days when this mighty metropolis was just a humble village.

To understand more about the disparities of life in contemporary Mumbai, take a socially responsible tour through the city’s huge and disadvantaged Dharavi district with Reality Tours & Travel ; 80% of the profits go back to social projects providing opportunities for those left behind by Mumbai’s push for success.

The city’s can’t-miss excursion is the boat trip to the 1500-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed rock-cut temples of Elephanta Island , but fantastic street food is the city’s great leveler. Don’t leave without sampling Mumbai's signature snack, bhel poori – puffed rice and fried dough with lentils, onions, herbs and savory chutneys, best sampled on the beach at Chowpatty or Juhu.

Detour: With time to spare in Mumbai, head to the northern suburbs, where Sanjay Gandhi National Park protects a sprawl of dry forest, home to leopards, deer, monkeys and serene Buddhist cave temples.

Best for an extraordinary taste of Tibet

In the far northwest of India, sheltered from the monsoon by the rain shadow of the Himalayas, the former Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh is culturally and geographically closer to western Tibet than anywhere in India. In this high-altitude moonscape, towering Tibetan monasteries melt into a landscape of barren rock and wind-sculpted hoodoos (don’t miss fabulous Hemis and Thiksey on the road linking Ladakh to Himachal Pradesh ). 

Most visitors start in the atmospheric capital, Leh , before roaming to neighboring valleys for homestay treks and trips to view turquoise salt lakes and colorful masked dances at ancient monasteries. Ladakh wasn't touched by China’s Cultural Revolution, so this is perhaps the closest independent travelers can come to experiencing the original culture of Tibet.

Planning tip: Getting to Ladakh is half the fun. Flights run to Leh even in the depths of winter, but the most enjoyable way in is overland, by road from either Srinagar in Kashmir or Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Buses and shared 4WDs run as long as the passes are open from June to the end of September, or you can tackle the route on a rented Enfield motorcycle.

5. Kolkata, West Bengal 

Best for culture vultures

The capital of colonial British India until 1911, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is India’s third-biggest metropolis and the country's intellectual and artistic capital. Spend a few days exploring the energetic bazaars, cultured museums and British-era landmarks, and you’ll soon fall in love with Kolkata’s irrepressible energy.

To really get to know Kolkata, sign up for a Bengali cooking course and visit the revered temple at Kalighat , where the goddess Kali is appeased with sacrifices. With more time to spare, book an overnight wildlife-watching tour to the nearby Sundarbans Tiger Reserve , a legendary stalking ground for royal Bengal tigers.

Planning tip: Try to time your visit to coincide with the festival of Durga Puja in September or October, when vividly colorful effigies of the goddess are displayed in pandals (ceremonial tents) all over the city.   

6. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Best for desert drama

The desert state of Rajasthan shows India at its most romantic and soft-filtered. Expect a mirage of camel caravans, ornate palaces, mighty forts, turbaned traders and intense colors, set against a backdrop of shifting desert sands. It’s unbelievably photogenic, but also firmly on the tourist map, so expect to share the experience with a crowd.

The pink-sandstone monuments of Jaipur , the ice-white lakeside palaces of Udaipur , and views of blue-hued Jodhpur from its lofty fort are all stunning experiences, but the city that delivers the biggest jolt to the senses is Jaisalmer , seeming sculpted from the living rock of the desert.

Its tangled lanes, towering fortress and beautifully ornate haveli (traditional houses) could have been plucked from the pages of One Thousand and One Nights , and the surrounding desert is the evocative setting for overnight camel safaris.

Planning tip: While it is possible to stay inside the fortified city, visitor numbers are having an impact on Jaisalmer’s historic heart. We recommend staying outside the walls instead – there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses within strolling distance of the fort.

7. The Kerala Backwaters

Best for lovers of slow travel

After the dusty, densely populated northern plains, tropical South India offers a lusher, more laid-back travel experience. The quintessential trip here is a slow-paced canal cruise through the emerald-green backwaters of Kerala , a 900-mile network of languid, coconut-fringed waterways, offering views of an ever-changing tableaux of South Indian life.

Hire a traditional houseboat in Alappuzha for a multiday trip, then settle in for a succulent Keralan seafood curry prepared by your personal chef as the sunset blushes over shimmering waters and silhouetted palm fronds. Post-cruise, it’s just a short hop up the coast to historic Kochi (Cochin) , with its cantilevered fishing nets and Kathakali dance theaters.

8. Bodhgaya, Bihar

Best for budding Buddhists

As the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism (plus countless smaller faiths), India is defined by sacred geography. Even here, however, few places resonate more powerfully than the Bodhi tree where Prince Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment to become the Buddha (Awakened One).

The town that has grown up around this sacred spot is home to dozens of Tibetan and Southeast Asian–style temples and monasteries, with a busy program of Buddhist teachings and courses. It’s the ideal destination for any spiritual explorer.

To get a feel for Bodhgaya ’s rhythms, come early to the Mahabodhi complex and settle in beside chanting Tibetan pilgrims to meditate on the nature of impermanence. Travel experiences don’t get much more profound than this.

Planning tip: Bodhgaya is just one stop on the so-called "Buddhist circuit," taking in key locations from the life of the historical Buddha. Local buses run to nearby Rajgir, the site of one of the first Buddhist monasteries, and Nalanda's ancient Buddhist university complex.  

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Best for a premium cup of tea with a view

Fanned by the cool breezes of the eastern Himalayas, surrounded by manicured tea estates and basking in front of epic Himalayan views, Darjeeling is easy to fall for.

For a perfect day, watch the dawn break over 8586m (20,169ft) Kangchenjunga, learn the difference between first-flush and white teas on a plantation tour, linger over an afternoon cuppa at the  Windamere Hotel , then learn about the Tibetan experience at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre .

The classiest way to arrive is via the nostalgic, narrow-gauge toy train ; book tickets in advance and check to see if the steam service is running (the diesel train follows the same route, but has less charm). Don’t miss the Buddhist gompas (monasteries) dotted around the city. Below Darjeeling on the fringes of Ghum, historic Yiga Choeling Gompa has a special magic.

Planning tip: Darjeeling isn’t the only interesting stop in the area. Shared 4WDs buzz from Darjeeling to Kalimpong , another historic township with colorful Buddhist monasteries, Himalayan views and pretty flower nurseries. 

10. Hampi, Karnataka

Best for a full immersion in history

Between the 14th and 16th centuries CE, the capital of the Vijayanagar empire at Hampi was home to half a million people, but this ancient metropolis was almost completely abandoned, leaving 3700 stone monuments scattered across a surreal plain of boulders.

This is a place to linger, strolling between the boulders to find carved masonry, forgotten shrines and the handsome remains of some of South India’s most dramatic stone temples.

Glance up as you wander and you’ll see rock climbers tackling bouldering routes using chisel marks made by ancient masons. Rent a motorcycle or scooter and you can roam further afield, taking in the hilltop temple marking the spot where the monkey god Hanuman first met Lord Rama.

Planning tip: Hampi is a short bus ride from the town of Hosapete – get here by overnight train from Goa’s beaches, historic Hyderabad or the cosmopolitan southern city of Bengaluru .

11. Arunachal Pradesh

Best for stepping off the map

Tucked away near Bangladesh, the eight Northeast States – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim – are India’s wild frontier. Until the 1990s, this region of rugged mountain valleys was mostly off-limits to foreigners, and visitor numbers are still small – people who travel here earn the right to call themselves proper explorers. 

Sikkim is the most famous destination in the Northeast States, but we’d encourage you east towards the forested foothills and jagged mountains of Arunachal Pradesh , where tribal communities follow a diverse range of traditional belief systems, from the Buddhist Monpa people of Tawang to the animist Apatani people of the Ziro valley. 

Planning tip: Travel takes a bit of effort in Arunachal Pradesh; you’ll need to apply for a permit to enter the state, and local transport is patchy. By far the easiest way to explore is with a chartered 4WD and driver (easily arranged in Guwahati in Assam).  

12. Amritsar, Punjab

Best for experiencing the power of devotion

India has pilgrimage destinations to spare, but few come close to the vibrant energy of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The most sacred site for the Sikh religion is a gleaming jewel box, floating in a mirror-like sacred pool, thronged day and night by an unbelievable mass of pilgrims. You don’t have to be spiritually inclined to feel its powerful rhythms. 

Joining devotees at the Sri Harmandir Sahib – the gold-paneled shrine at the heart of the complex – is incredibly moving. Staying overnight in the pilgrims' hostels that flank the temple compound only adds to the intensity. A donation is much appreciated for accommodation if possible, though pilgrims of all means will be accommodated if space is available. You can also sit down for meals at the temple langar (kitchen), which provides cost-free nourishment to a staggering 100,000 people per day (again, a donation is appreciated if you have the means).

Planning tip: Don’t limit your explorations to the Golden Temple – the surrounding bazaars buzz with energy and atmosphere, with vendors selling everything from embroidered chappals (sliders) to brass and polished steel pots and pans.   

13. Mysuru (Mysore), Karnataka

Best for feeling like a Maharaja

The atmospheric South Indian city of Mysuru has multiple charms: towering temples, one of India’s most evocative marketplaces, and the almost impossibly extravagant crib that is Mysuru Palace , the ancestral home of the Wadiyar maharajas. No building conjures up the extravagant lives of India’s royal rulers quite so vividly – every room is a fantasy, every ornament an heirloom. 

Around the palace are busy bazaars, rewarding museums and a string of Hindu temples in the classic Dravidian (Southern Indian) architectural style. Devote several days to wandering the streets, hiking up to the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hill and feasting on fiery vegetarian  thalis (plate meals) in Mysuru’s restaurants.  

14. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Best for tiger encounters

The national parks of Madhya Pradesh are some of the best places on the planet to get close to royal Bengal tigers. Seeing one of these striped superstars loping out of the jungle will stay with you for a lifetime – as well as leaving you heartbroken at the thought of how few tigers still survive in the wild.

Everyone has their favorite tiger reserve, but we rate Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve near Jabalpur for the density of wildlife in its central Tala range. Around 70 tigers roam these dry forests, alongside leopards, monkeys, deer and gaur – India’s gigantic wild buffalo. There’s a high likelihood of sightings if you devote several days to 4WD safaris (elephant safaris should be avoided as riding can be harmful to these vulnerable animals). 

Planning tip: The best time to see tigers is first thing in the morning – safaris start at 5:30am to catch tigers before they stake out a shady spot in the undergrowth to sleep through the heat of the day. 

15. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Best for religious splendor

South India's Hindu temples are a joyous celebration of the divine, decorated inside and out with vividly colorful depictions of deities and supernatural beings, both fearsome and sublime. In the southern city of Madurai , the towering gopurams (gateway towers) of the Meenakshi Amman Temple provide a three-dimensional guide to the main deities of the Hindu pantheon.

The current temple was constructed in the 17th century, but the site has been sacred to Meenakshi, the queen of the Pandya kingdom and an incarnation of the goddess Parvati, for at least 2000 years. Come early in the morning to watch sunrise bring the temple to life, then pop to the nearest branch of Murugan Idli Shop for some of the south’s best idli (steamed rice and lentil cakes).  

Detour: A short bus or train ride from Madurai, Tiruchirappalli – aka Trichy – is another top spot for temple enthusiasts. The looming Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the world’s largest Hindu shrines, covering 155 acres (63 hectares) and topped by 21 deity-encrusted towers. More temples crown the rocky outcrop at the heart of the city, offering epic views over the rooftops.  

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2023

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My Guide: the BEST Itinerary for India

Home » Asia » India

I get e-mails from readers who are planning to backpack India and they want the details: who to fly with , how to get their visa , should they use a travel agent, & an itinerary for India (where should they go and in what order). I’ve noticed that since I posted the only packing list you need for India , I don’t get questions about packing anymore. I’m assuming that is because it helped people.

I am finally answering these FAQs about India!  Some of your questions don’t have simple answers! I’m doing very detailed posts about a handful of the topics. The first up is, “Where should I go, and in what order? I want to save money.” First, I’ll explain what options I took in my India itinerary. Then I’ll discuss the pros and cons of the following suit. I’ll follow up with other route options that I considered or plan to take soon.

Tips for Traveling to and in India

• If you’re serious about having the trip of a lifetime, check out my India Guide ebook which is a complete guide to India and has 6 years of travel experience expertly organized to plan your trip from A to Z. Read more about the book here .
• For the best budget flights, I always use  Kiwi . They search the low-cost carriers! I mean you can easily fly all over India for $200!
• You absolutely need a visa for India! I use and recommend iVisa for everyone coming . Check here to get a quote for your specific country. If you need a guide, here are my posts for US Citizens and for UK Citizens .
• I also, ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance. World Nomads covers everything from emergency care to lost luggage. You can get a quick quote here . Here’s my full post on what exactly it covers and doesn’t .
• Whether or not to book ahead… I have written a lot about how to book and where to stay in India. If you’re on a budget, check out my  hostel guide to India here . Otherwise, I love using Agoda to compare different hotels.
• If you want to do a tour to check out a lot of these at once, there is one that does it ALL and it’s the ultimate India tour from G Adventures , the only tour group I recommend in India that covers the whole country. I have a list of the best itineraries I suggest for group tours in India as well. I trust G Adventures for these tours. They have international standards and my close friends have taken these tours and loved them.

The Best Itinerary For India (3 Months)

First, I flew into Mumbai.

From there I went to by train to Rajasthan. This is where  Udaipur , Jodhpur , Jaisalmer , Pushkar , and Jaipur  are. If you’d rather, check Kiwi to see how cheap flights are to Rajasthan instead.

You need about 3-4 weeks for this state. I didn’t feel the need to see Gujarat and felt like I’d seen enough of this area to head north. I traveled this state by bus .

Himachal Pradesh

Next, I went to Delhi to regroup, meet a friend and got my butt up to the mountains. I was mainly in Himachal Pradesh and the surrounding states. These include  Shimla , Sarahan, Kullu, Manali , back to Kullu, Dharamsala, McLeod Ganj , Amritsar ,  and   Rishikesh .

Next, another break back in Delhi, which is a hub that seems impossible to miss.

Agra + Varanasi

Then I went to Agra, which is where you’ll go if you want to visit the Taj Mahal . Next, I went to Varanasi.

Goa + Hampi

After Varanasi, I took a train back to Delhi to catch a cheaper flight to Goa and Hampi . If you will be spending a week or more in Goa (which I highly suggest) then do check out my $25 e-book. The Insider’s Guide to Goa is 170-pages long and will guarantee you have the best time in Goa, meet other travels, and chill at all the coolest places. Click here to purchase .

I was meant to go to Kerala and go on the backwaters but meeting Ben in Goa kind of stopped my trip there, although we did go to Hampi together. With this route, it would be really easy to head south by train to Kerala. From there, you can fly back to Mumbai and catch a flight home. OR you could fly to Kerala from Delhi, and do Goa after, then back to Mumbai to fly home. The second option there would prevent you from taking

The second option there would prevent you from taking the second flight.

Summary of my Itinerary for India

If you look at a map you’ll see that I covered most of the NorthWest and a nice chunk of the far North. You would think I missed the main bits of India, and in a sense I did.

This is the thing: The places I went are tourist friendly. I’m not saying they’re like when you hop Thai islands and get stickers like a child. What I mean is that they are places you’ll like visiting. Tourists pick these cities for a reason.

No matter how “touristy” someone says a city is in India,  this is STILL India. In my opinion, it’s not touristy at all, even in Goa.

Is there a “Tourist Trail” to follow?

If you go into many other areas, you’ll find they aren’t ready for tourism. Although that may be what you’re looking for, I think you’ll be disappointed. It won’t be like a book you read where some girl found a local village and met people who changed her life… most likely, seeing as though India has almost 1.3 BILLION people, you will end up in a bustling town with nowhere to stay and people trying to rip you off because they haven’t seen a tourist.

Most likely, seeing as though India has almost 1.3 BILLION people, you will end up in a bustling town with nowhere to stay and people trying to rip you off because they haven’t seen a tourist.

If you are coming to India to “ find yourself ” or see the spiritual side that India is popular for, you probably won’t find it in the cities, unless you take mass amounts of Xanax. Westerners go to the same places Indians have for centuries because they are awesome.

Westerners go to the same places Indians have for centuries because they are awesome.

The path I took is a pretty common tourist trail mainly because it allows you to see the desert, ride a camel, play in the Himalayas, visit the Dalai Lama’s new home, visit Rishikesh the birthplace of yoga, see the Taj Mahal, watch the cremations on the Ganges, and beach it up in Goa.

The biggest tourist trail of all is the “Golden Triangle”: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur which is what most international tours to India will take you on if you have a week or two. The next major India tour would probably be a Rajasthan tour which usually adds on to the Golden Triangle tour.

When I started on that path, I was unaware it was the tourist trail, I just realized it was the only route that made sense. No one does it in the same order though, and I found it hard to find travel buddies. I did have to do a total180 and take my itinerary backward because of seasonal changes .

When you are in Italy and you pick a random town to go to, you find beauty and nice cafes…. I hate to tell you it just isn’t the same in India. If you have limited time, you should take a moment and think about what you want to do, see, and experience. Next, figure out where you can do those things. Place dots on a map; do a little planning . Take a hard look at it to see which route makes for the best!

Yoga in India

If you are interested in taking courses but want to pay safely and not get ripped off, you can use bookyogaretreats.com  for retreats and bookyogateachertraining.com  for YTT. These are owned by the same team and they only list the best of the best on there. There are reviews for other yogis who have been there so you can dive in and do some serious research. I recommend sorting by the “top recommended”.

The top places for yoga in India are Rishikesh, Dharamshala, and Goa.

What did you miss that you still want to do?

There is much more I want to see. My bucket list for India is never-ending . As a tourist, you get a six-month visa usually. This just isn’t enough time to see what India has to offer. I am so happy with what I saw in my time there, which was three months , and I didn’t leave with any feelings of longing for other cities I missed.

Fast-forward to now

I’ve been living in India and traveling to loads of places, not on the so called tourist trail. I can tell you for sure that if I had to re-do my path I wouldn’t change a thing. I didn’t come to India as a backpacker to eat at the Hard Rock Café in Bangalore with all the expats (although I love it now!), I came to see exactly what I saw.

The main places I missed were:

• Calcutta, which was fine because I’d had enough big city,
• The North East, which I’ve now visited
• Pondicherry (the French colony)
• Kerala backwaters (now been here as well)
• The southern-most tip of Tamil Nadu where the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, and Arabi Sea meet. This is also where Gandhi’s ashes were scattered.

I missed the rural areas but later wandered around Karnataka for a month. There are much more, but those were ones on my list of places I was interested in. If you follow the itinerary I set, and don’t fall in love in Goa, you’ll have time to go to Kerala. You could fly from Delhi down and check out Kovalam, Varkala, Kochi, and then bus up to Goa.

You could fly from Delhi down and check out Kovalam, Varkala, Kochi, and then bus up to Goa.

Keep in mind, that this was a three-month trip. If you go for six months, add Calcutta, Sikkim, and Pondicherry.

There are so many famous temples, like the Kama Sutra one, that I missed, but I still have time. Take some time to read about India before you come and see what you want to do. Once you have that, you’ll easily make an itinerary that will leave you satisfied at the end of your journey.

I have my original list of places I wanted to see on my three-month trip, and even almost two years since I left on that backpacking trip and living in India, I still have yet to even finish 75% of it.

Want more tips for India? Check out these articles!

• One Month Backpacking India
• A total budget guide to backpacking India on 20 USD per day
• Backpacking India two months itinerary  (two friends share their recent itinerary)
• What to pack for India  (literally, the full list)
• How to Dress in India
• My experience traveling India ALONE
• My safety tips for India

What would you add to your itinerary for India?

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54 Comments

Great information! The comment about the stickers you get in Thailand made me crack up – it’s so true! I felt like a child on a school trip being herded around like a sheep. I love reading your blog, I.m about to move to Thailand to work as a history teacher for two years. Your blog has been really inspirational. Xx

haah those damn stickers! I”m glad my blog is heading you get ready for your big move! Two years will fly by!

Amazing! That’s an excellent itinerary to see India. You managed to explore quite a bit, Rachel! Pushkar and Jaipur are on my radar too, which I haven’t manged to see yet!

Jaipur is super crowded and was prob my least favorite in Rajasthan, Pushkar was my top favorite!

Have seen Varanasi. The oldest city of world

Love this post Rachel! India has been top of my travel wish list for so long now but I never seem to have the right amount of time to do it. I feel like India deserves a good long travel stretch, and it seems from reading this I was right! One day…

Yes you’re exactly right, you need quite a chunk of time to appreciate the country!

Hi Rachel! I though to comment just to say that I read all your posts even if I very seldom comment.. lazy girl :D Especially lately, when I’m thinking of visiting India, and planning my own itinerary, your blog is such a giant source of inspiration!!!

haha oh thanks girl! that means a lot :) You should totally come to India!

Thanks for this Post! I recently met a girl from india and she told me about india and now I really want to go there! What Itinerary would you suggest if I have only 3 weeks? Greetings from Bali, Nadja

For 3 weeks, I would start with the golden triangle of Delhi, Agra, (Taj), and Jaipur then see if you have time for a stop in Rishikesh.

Thanks for the tips and itinerary – I’ll be saving it for later use! :)

Your welcome!

What a great list, I will definitely keep it in mind when I go to India, hopefully it will be soon ;)

I hope you make it to India soon as welL!

What a great post Rachel. Even though I’ve already been to India I still like reading your blogs about India mainly because I like the way you write, and I’ll probably go back again in the nearest future, and you seem to be the go-for-it-in-India-girl of the moment LOL!

I love your tips and totally agree. :) The last time I went there was roughly 10 years ago (gasp!), and I was there for a month on the Rajasthan trail. When I go back to India, I’d probably do that again AND then I quite fancy going to the Calcutta, the Dajeeling area, and Mumbai. I think I’d like Mumbai far more than I liked Delhi!

I’m not in a hurry to go to Goa as I can only do beach locations for a week and then I’m bored, and I’ve already done the dance, electro, house, trance, ibiza scene LOL!

haha I love that- go for it india girl of the moment! Lol. I also havent been to NE India and would love to. I actually live in Goa but I don’t think I could live anywhere other than the beach in India… I need my peace and relaxation! as well as a tan. The trance scene is interesting but not really my scene.

I would recommend you Calcutta, it should have to be on top of your list. Despite being the 3rd biggest city in India, this place has a perfect melting pot of colonial past and modern India. Time seems to have stopped here, a magnificent place. *Trivia: During British rule, it was their 2nd most important city, only after London.*

I do love your blog and your spunk, go for it girl!

thanks dude!

Just gone through via your useful posts,now I am planning to visit first time Goa first week of January along with my wife and son,can you please advise me south Goa is good or north? in terms of safety wise & beach wise?

Regard’s DawaR

I think the South is far more beautiful, although I don’t know the area as well down there.

Absolutely glued to your blog! I traveling to India at the end of July and i’ll be there six weeks until its time to move on to Sri Lanka. Although Im kinda feeling that this won’t be enough time now! I fly into Delhi and want to explore the North and South! Would it make things easier/quicker to get an internal flight, or do you think I should concentrate on one area and come back another time?! xx

definitely get an internal flight. a one way can be 3000 rs or even 1700 i’ve got once! under 40 bucks!

Hey Rachel, thanks for the tips! I’ve been voraciously reading your blog. Will be starting in Kerala and ending in Mumbai starting in September. I’ll come back on another trip to go to the north.

Just curious, how did you get a visa to live there when your original tourist visa was for three months?

My original was 6, I just didn’t stay 6 months. I went back to US and reapplied. You can get 5-10 years as a US citizen.

Awesome! So, just to clarify: the only flight you took was to Goa? And you just figure out trains and busses when you’re there?

Yep that’s right, but if you book it right flights can be the same price as trains so don’t rule it out.

You should have gone Gujarat and places like Somanath as well as mount Abu to see the jain temples, btw will you be there still in early 2017?

Hey Rachel, Thanks for the Amazing blog and very helpful tips. I’m not sure you’re still answering questions on your blog, but here we go… I’m planning to go to India for 5 weeks (beginning of November until the 10th of December). I loved your itinerary and loved it but unfortunately, I don’t have 3 months to do it as you did. Which places/areas (and duration if possible) would you suggest in order to do as much as possible of your itinerary but still taking enough time not to feel exhausted?

Thanks again and hope I’ll get an answer… I see that you haven’t posted here since August 2015.

Hey- with 5 weeks, I’d cut out the mountains! Do rajasthan, Delhi, Agra – maybe Rishikesh!

Great! Thank you very much Rachel! I’ll take a look at it! Cheers!

Hi Rachel, Your blog is amazing and you deserve all the success! This is coming from a girl who reads travel blogs for.houurs on end….when I’m not traveling of. course! After reading your blog India has moved to the top of my list and I am extremely excited tackle it solo. I was planning a two week trip to Sri Lanka the beginning of March and am now wondering if I should just skip it (or shorten it) and go straight to India. Do you have any experience traveling there? Also do you make advanced reservations in guest houses? Thank you!

Awesome to hear the blog helped move India up on your list! I love Sri Lanka and wouldn’t skip it if I were you.. it has SO much to offer as well! These days, I do reserve ahead because I hate the hassle of wandering around negotiating but you don’t have to in March as it’s “off season” and less tourists are there.

You didn’t feel Gujrat worth. But I found the most tranquil place in India to be Great Rann of Kutch. Perhaps the second largest salt desert in the world.

Wow killer post on India., Good stuff. We spent 4 weeks in India on a whirlwind itinerary visiting 6 different regions yet only really scratching the surface of this complex and diverse country.

David, you’re so right it’s really difficult to “see it all” in India!!

Going to India next month and absolutely winging it. I have about 3-4 weeks. Do you think it’s possible to cover Delhi, Agra, Varanasi and Rajasthan with that much time? I also want to visit Goa but I think that’s a bit ambitious. I’m quite a fast traveler.

Yes, definitely assuming you aren’t covering all of Rajasthan :) But minimum Delhi 3 days, Agra 2, Varanasi 3 then that leaves a lot of time to move around Rajasthan

This is by far the best itinerary I’ve ever read. You covered literally everything. I live in India and still haven’t explored this much. This post inspired me to take time off my work and explore my country. Thanks Rachel! I SIMPLY LOVED IT! Bookmarked it for planning my itinerary for the future.

Fantastic site, this has made my day and confirmed my decision to visit India after my application for a Canadian visa was declined.Thank you so much.

Happy to help! I hope you have a blast

Can I ask what time of year you were in Rajasthan? My bf and I are planning to be in India in May and I’m worried it’s too hot to go to Rajasthan then? Thanks :) P.S loved the blog post, it was massively helpful!

It will be sooooo hot maybe 50 celsius based on past years. I have been twice, both in October.

Hey Rachael, I’ll be traveling India for the month of May, I know that this is the peak summer month/ pre monsoon season and I’m wondering if you have any advice on where to travel for these intense summer weeks. I’ve heard the north is the best option but i would still like to see southern India as well, is it worth it? Any recommendations?

It’s hot all over with the south being also really humid – when people say the north isn’t as hot they mean the far far north like himachal, leh, etc not rajasthan or Delhi!

I traveled all over INDIA for 6 months, back in 1995. Now married, and wife wants to travel – can you recommend flying west coast USA to New Dehli vs Mumbai to start? Any advice on airport transfers? That was REALLY dicey 20+ years ago – how is it now?

Both Mumbai and Delhi have combined their international and domestic airports into one except three airlines which are at the old domestic terminals: spicejet, goair, and indigo

Hello, thank you so much for this detailed itinerary. I am in Rishikesh now and planning what to do during the month of April. I already visited Rajastan, so that is out of the plan. I was thinking to go to Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala and Amritsar. What do you think, is it feasable? It looks like a bit difficult to find good transportation options between this destinations and roads look a bit dangerous. that is why I did not close my itinerary yet. Can you please share some insights about the best way to move from one destination to another and the best order to do it? From Amritsar I should take a plane back to Delhi. Thank you Manu

Hi Rachel, I love your blog. It’s been so helpful. Me and my girlfriend are traveling to india for the first time in November. We fly into New Dehli on the 4th and are looking to be in a great location for Diwali on the 7th. Can you ou give us any recommendations of where to celebrate it? We like to experience new cultures, eat new foods, enjoy crowds and the nightlife. We would hope for a fun authentic Diwali.

We plan to end our trip in Varanasi when DeepDiwali is happening. Any recommendations specific to this celebration to keep in mind?

Also, if you could only see Jodpur or Jaipur which would you recommend?

Thanks a lot! Curtis & Anna

Hi Rachel, your itinerary is so helpful! I am visiting India in March

I did wonder, what accommodation would you recommend to stay? What sites did you use to book hostels/hotels? Did you book in advance? And roughly how much did it cost a night?

Thank you very much for your help! Ram

Great information! The comment about the stickers you get in India made me crack up – it’s so true!

Hi Rachel, your itinerary is great! You have listed out all the great destinations in your list. India is not just a country, it’s a huge collection of different cultures, traditions and emotions. It’s impossible to cover everything in a single trip, no matter how long you stay. I think that’s why we need a best tour operator in India to show us around the country.

Thanks for this. Great tips. I have around 4 weeks that I’d love to spend in India. Having visited Agra, Delhi as a child I’m less bothered about visiting here with the little time I have. Key places I’ve wanted to see are Varanasi and Goa with a few final days in Bombay but am not sure how to link this together and where to go in between. As I’m doing different parts I know I probably won’t be on the same trail travelling with people which is sad as I’d like that as a solo traveller. Any tips on routes would be appreciated!

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My Honest Thoughts on Each Place I Visited in India!

Categories Asia , India

During my first trip to India, I visited 27 places in 4 months , that’s a lot I know! I loved most of the places I visited in India. Some places I didn’t like so much but they were the ‘iconic India’ places so I’m glad I went.

If you are looking for the best places to visit in India or get more information on exactly where to visit in India, I have written this post with a little paragraph on how I felt about each place I visited and rated them out of 5 so that you can read this and decide if you want to visit too or not!

This will be especially useful if you are travelling to India on a tight timeframe and don’t want to waste time in places you may not like.

Of course everything is down to my personal opinion, some days I wasn’t feeling well especially in the South so I didn’t see as much and therefore didn’t like it as much, but the below will give you my honest thoughts on every place I visited to help you plan your trip to India and itinerary around India! 

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best time to visit India

Before we get into this India travel blog, it’s worth thinking about the best time to visit India as the country get’s very hot and wet in the middle of the year. November to March are the best times to visit both North & South India .

South India will be warmer than North India in the winter months of December and January , Delhi and further North actually get cold in these months but are still enjoyable to visit with the right clothing.

Outside these months, you can still visit but you’ll find that the heat and humidity will be much higher, especially as you go further South.

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

North India

I really loved Mumbai! It was the first place I visited in India and the area of Colaba in South India is a traveller and tourist haven without being that touristy at all. I felt safe there and there were plenty of places to eat.

The Mumbai Local Train system is easy to use. There’s Uber too. There are enough things to do, although I do recommend doing a tour to help you see some of them and overall it’s a cool city to visit with a lot to offer.

Here are some must-do things in Mumbai

Recommended Accommodation: Backpacker Panda Hostel Colaba

Related Blog Posts:   My First Impressions of India! ,  Mumbai Slum Tour to Dharavi Slum – The Positive and Unique Side of Slum Tourism ,  Things To Do in Colaba and How To See Mumbai From Colaba!

Udaipur, also known as the White City and the City Lakes is very beautiful, just like a lot of people told me.

I loved it’s rooftops and I loved how small and easy it is to get around, but what I didn’t like is all of the guys outside the shops trying to make conversation and get you into their stores. They’re good at it I admit and I felt bad when I just walked by and ignored them but when you get asked 50 times a day ‘ma’am where are you from? are you lost? what are you looking for?’ it gets really annoying!

Discover Udaipur’s Highlights by Booking the City Palace Museum Tour and Breathtaking Lake Pichola Cruise

Score:  2

Update: After visiting more Cities in India and Rajasthan I realise that Udaipur is actually very nice and it’s size is also great as it’s easy to explore and the hassle isn’t that bad there in hindsight!

Updated Score: 4

Recommended Accommodation: Pratap Bhawan Hotel (where I stayed), Gypsy Hostel (where a traveller I met stayed and loved).

Related Blog Posts:  12 Unique Activities, Classes and Things To Do in Udaipur, India! ,  Tips for Visiting Udaipur’s City Palace & Doing a Boat Trip Around Lake Pichola!

-Kumbhalgarh

This place is not on the typical Rajasthan Itinerary but I’m really glad I split my trip up between Udaipur and Jodhpur and went here. I stayed in a lovely hotel – Shahpura Kumbhal Villas which was a bit of luxury but actually its only £40.00 a night.

Experience the Magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort on a Private Full-Day Tour with Lunch – Book now

There are a lot of higher end resorts in Kumbhalgarh so you do need more a budget to go and you’ll need a private driver but if you have the money and you want some peace and quiet in india, Kumbhalgarh is a great place to go!

Recommended Accommodation: Shahpura Kumbhal Villas

Related Blog Posts:  Shahpura Kumbhal Villas in Kumbhalgarh Review!

I had 2 experiences in Jodhpur- a 3 nights in a homestay 30 minutes from the City and 3 nights in the City.

I loved the homestay so so much, it was literally the exact experience I wanted on this trip to India and I got it within 2 weeks of being here! I got to sleep in a mud hut, watch food being made, help cook food, play with the children, ask lots of questions and see the stars, this was truly one of my best travel experiences ever!

I did not get on with the City of Jodhpur however. It’s really dirty with s**t literally everywhere. There’s a lot of traffic in small areas and there isn’t that much to do really, also, its not that blue!

Secure Your Spot for a Jodhpur City Discovery on a Full-Day Private Tour with Camel Safari

I’m glad I went and I would still recommend it if you have time but if you are short on time I’d say to leave the city of Jodhpur out

Homestay in Jodhpur Score: 5!

City of Jodhpur Score: 2

Recommended Accommodation: Chhotaram Prajapat’s Homestay & Zostel Hostel

Related Blog Posts:  Incredible Homestay Experience in Rajasthan at Chhotaram Prajapat’s Homestay!  &  6 Of The Best Way’s to See Jodhpur aka The Blue City of India!

Pushkar is the place to come if you want to relax a bit. Compared to most places in Northern India it’s very chilled and has a backpacker, traveller, and hippy vibe. Its also very spiritual and holy which makes it popular with Indians and Hindu’s.

I spent 1 week in Pushkar to catch up on some blogging work and it was a great place to do this from. I got into a nice routine of getting up early, getting a chai, going to yoga and meditation, working, getting lunch, having a walk, watching the sunset and having dinner.

Pushkar is pretty cheap for accommodation, food and shopping too!

Recommended Accommodation: Elephant Pushkar Hostel (where I stayed) or Inn Seventh Heaven (for something a bit more fancy, my Aunty stayed here last year and loved it!).

Related Blog Posts:    7 Things To Be Aware Of When Visiting Pushkar, India! ,  The Best Places to Eat in Pushkar ,  Where To Find Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda in Pushkar.

I’ll say now that the ‘Pink City’ is not that pink (just like Jodhpur isn’t that blue), and again like Jodhpur, I had romanticised views that the Pink City would be where I’d spend all my time and it would be really pretty but apart from being more terracotta, it’s actually only a small part of the City and very busy with traffic!

I enjoyed my stay in Jaipur but that was all down to my 2 accommodations. I stayed at Shahpura House which is a luxury heritage hotel. It is really beautiful and if you want a bit of luxury and a good price, I’d recommend it. I then moved to a hostel – Moustache Hostel which I also loved as I met great people and they have lots of activities on which makes seeing the City easier.

Because thats the thing, Jaipur has a lot to do, there are Forts, a Palace, iconic Buildings, Stepwells, Temples and more but a Rickshaw or Taxi is needed to go everywhere and although it is fairly cheap it is quite exhausting and the traffic is bad too, therefore I didn’t end up seeing everything Jaipur had to offer but I still enjoyed it!

Delve into Jaipur’s Royal Legacy and Timeless Beauty by Booking an Exclusive Tour Showcasing the City’s Iconic Palaces, Forts, and Cultural Experiences

Recommended Accommodation:  Shahpura House for some Luxury at good price or Moustache Hostel for the best hostel in Jaipur!

Related Blog Post:  The Best Way To See Jaipur aka The Pink City of India!

I was actually pleasantly surprised with Delhi! I had heard how busy it was and I was a bit worried about going but I stayed in New Delhi in the main backpacker section and although it was busy it was manageable and I enjoyed being able to walk to Connaught Place which is more modern with lots of shops.

Experience Delhi’s Architectural Wonders and Lively Atmosphere by Booking this Private Tour of Old and New Delhi

The Delhi Metro is really easy to use and is a great way to get around, a lot of the main places to visit in Delhi can actually be visited using the metro, alternatively if you do a day tour you can see everything of places in Delhi in a short amount of time!

Recommended Accommodation:  New Delhi is a good location. I stayed in Backpackers Heaven @ New King on my first visit and DO NOT recommend it! I later stayed at Zostel Delhi and really liked it there!

I’m glad I went to Amritsar, the Golden Temple is incredible, so is the kitchen experience and the Wagah Border but I was very happy to leave after 2 days, I had booked 3 nights and reduced it to 2!

The back streets are pretty dirty and very small and busy, apart from the things I have mentioned above there is not much else to do, I got food poisoning too which didn’t help my trip there, and I went on a public holiday so it was soo busy! I have heard from others that they really enjoyed their time in Amritsar and found it quite relaxed so I think my public holiday experience was a one off.

Definitely go but only stay 48 hours max!

Recommended Accommodation:  NOT WOW Backpackers, I didn’t like it there at all! I have heard that Jugadus Hostel   is good and GoStops Hostel in Amritsar  is a which is a chain of hostels in India could be good too!

Related Blog Post:  Tips for Visiting Amritsar’s Golden Temple and the Wagah Border Ceremony!

-Dharamshala / McLeod Ganj

I loved it here! And I was still ill for most of my time here! Dharamshala is in the state of Himachal Pradesh up in the Mountains, in fact at the bottom of the Himalayan Mountains. Because it’s so far away a lot of travellers don’t make it here but it really was the fresh air I needed in India!

It’s the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Council so it has a huge Tibetan and Buddhist influence which makes it really unique. It’s a lot quieter than anywhere else I have been with simply stunning nature, good food and good people! I stayed in McLeod Ganj which is in the Dharamshala area and thought this was a great base!

From here I really wanted to go to Manali or Shimla but it was November and too cold. I do plan to go back and I would recommend you seeing more of Himachal Pradesh whilst in Dharamshala.

Score:  5

Recommended Accommodation:  I stayed at Ram Yoga House which definitely helped enhance my experience there, it was so nice and good value. I 100% recommend staying there!

Related Blog Post:  Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj Travel Guide for Travellers!

Rishikesh is the home of yoga and a bit hippy and if you know me you’ll probably know already that I liked it here! Don’t get me wrong, I perhaps went with slightly too high expectations as I know a lot of travellers and expats end up getting ‘stuck’ here and even living here because they love it so much whereas it is still very busy and busy with Indian tourists too which made it not the shanti/peaceful place I thought it would be.

That aside, I love the vibe here. I love the abundance of yoga classes and all types of other healing classes and courses. The people it attracts are really great and there’s so many cafes overlooking the beautiful Ganga River!

Discover Inner Peace and Balance by Booking Your Yoga Retreat at the Serene Abhayaranya Yoga Ashram in Rishikesh

Recommended Accommodation: I stayed at Shiv Shakti Hostel and wasn’t a huge fan of it’s private rooms although other’s liked it for it’s dorm rooms and social vive. I also heard The Hosteller is good, so is Live Free Hostel . For something more fancy and in a great location, the Kunwar Residency would be a good option. Aside from that there are also the Ashram’s that are very popular in Rishikesh!

Related Blog Posts:  A Travel Guide to Rishikesh – Yoga, Cafes, Accommodation, Things To Do!  &  Visiting The Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh!

I really liked Agra! I mean, it wasn’t my favourite place in India BUT considering that a lot of people say to ‘get in and get out’ I found that to be wrong and I think that made me like it more because I think it’s a city you can spend 2-3 days in.

I liked that some of the streets around the Taj Mahal are a bit more modern and there’s one street that led me from the road of my hostel to the Taj Mahal which is totally pedestrian friendly with a pavement and everything (not common in India!).

Secure Your Quick Access to the Majestic Taj Mahal: Book Your Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket for Agra

I also liked how many places there are to see the Taj Mahal from and I loved seeing the Taj Mahal, I think it’s absolutely incredible and exceeded all my expectation so this really helped heighten my opinion of Agra!

Recommended Accommodation: Moustache Hostel Agra , I stayed here in a private room which was really great value. It’s in a good location, ran well and I enjoyed staying there!

Related Blog Post:  Is It Worth Visiting The Taj Mahal? And My Top Tips for Visiting!  &  7 Ways to See The Taj Mahal Without Going Inside the Taj Mahal!

People say you either love or hate Varanasi because it is a very busy, old and unique city and with that comes the fact that it is very different to a lot of places in India, let alone the world and the oldness creates a lot of dust and dirt.. or is that the burning bodies?

I went to Varanasi after being in India for 2 months and I think this is what made me enjoy it. I know people who have been at the start of their trip to India and found it very overwhelming. I think you should be prepared for Varanasi but don’t be worried about going. If you go at the start of your trip, embrace it and know that not everywhere in India is like this!

Reserve Your Unforgettable Varanasi Adventure and Explore India’s culture with Expert Guides

Recommended Accommodation:  Moustache Hostel Varanasi , I was recommended to stay here by a guy I met in Moustache Hostel Jaipur, mainly because of the location as the hostel is at Assi Ghat which is further down the river from the ‘centre’.

I’m really glad I stayed here as I loved the location, much less stress and craziness than accommodation in the centre and it has some great cafes and restaurants around it.

Related Blog Post: 2 Day Itinerary for Varanasi – Will You Love it or Hate it??

Now we’re at the end of my North India locations be sure to see:

How Much it Really Costs to Backpack Around Northern India!

4 Awesome & Different One Month Itineraries for North India with Maps!

South India

Even though Goa is pretty big and differs in each place I’m going to bunch it together because it is mostly the beaches!

I visited Arambol and Candolim in North Goa and Palolem in South Goa. Palolem was my absolute favourite, in fact realising that India had a beach just like you find in Thailand or Philippines made me love India even more because it proved to me that India really does have it all!

I loved the vibe of Palolem, it’s a bit hippy, a bit holiday maker but there are no big ugly buildings and most of the accommodation is huts by the beach. After 3 days in Palolem with friends I stayed at Earth Yoga Village and did their yoga holiday for 1 week which was so so nice too!

I did like Arambol too but only because that was the first place I went in Goa, it’s a lot more holiday vibe and popular with Russians and Indian’s, which was fine. It’s also one of the original hippy places in North Goa but these days there are a lot of neon lights and loud music coming from the beach bars.

Discover the Enchanting Sal Backwaters Mangroves in Goa by Booking Your Kayaking Adventure Today

Candolim was fine for 2 days but I wouldn’t go back or recommend it. It seemed most popular with Brits and the main road is very much a busy road whereas Arambol and Palolem’s main road is a lot quieter and full of shops. The beach is nice and there’s lot of beach bars but it didn’t have anything that special about it in my opinion.

I know there are so many more beaches to visit in Goa but Palolem for me will take some beating!

The one thing I didn’t like about Goa is how hard it is to get from beach to beach! There are local buses but they do not go directly to each popular beach and are local so they take a long time. There is a train line in Goa but a lot of stations are not main stations.

I ended up getting taxi’s between places with my friends, luckily we could split the cost otherwise as a solo traveller this would get very expensive!

Score: Palolem – 5, Arambol – 3.5, Candolim – 2 .

Recommended Accommodation:   Palolem – Tent Cressida Cyrus – really nice tents and huts just off the beach. Arambol – Sunny’s Guesthouse – huts on the cliffside close to Arambol Beach. Candolim – Niki Guest House – nice guesthouse close to the beach .

Related Blog Post:  My Magic Yoga Holiday in Goa at Earth Yoga Village!  

To also help you plan your trip be sure to read these posts after:

3 Different One Month Itineraries for South India with Maps!

8 Things to Know Before You Travel Around South India.

Alleppey in Kerala is a ‘get in, get out’ place, and I say that because I was there an extra day longer than needed! It’s the best place to visit the Backwaters of Kerala from making it popular place to visit but aside from that there’s not much there.

There is a beach but I didn’t feel comfortable sunbathing and there are a few places to eat so its best to go there, do the backwaters and either chill or leave.

Score: 5 because the Backwaters were amazing!

Recommended Accommodation:  Pine Beach Residency  or   Zostel Hostel

Related Blog Post:  Cruising the Backwaters of Kerala from Alleppey!

Look for the best flights to India here!

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price! 

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Another beach place I loved is Varkala. It’s hard to decide whether I loved it more than Palolem although I guess I don’t really need to! Varkala is super chilled but has more edge than the beaches I visited in Goa. The beach itself is more wild and open and I love the cliffside full of accommodation and restaurants.

There are some cool cafes which I found great to work from with good food, there’s lots of yoga on offer and the overall vibe is rally good! I’ll definitely come back to Varkala!

Recommended Accommodation: The Lungi Vibe Hostel   and  Puccini Lala Eco Wellness Resort

Related Blog Post:  A Guide to Varakala Beach.

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

Kochi/ Cochin is an interesting City as it’s like no other place in India with a real Portuguese influence. Fort Kochi is the area where travellers stay and I’d say there’s no need to spend any time anywhere else in the City. I found Kochi a bit boring to be honest and I wasn’t a huge fan.

Although I was there over New Year which meant that many of it’s nice cafes were too busy to get a seat and the beach area was also really busy with tourists – Indian and foreigners so I felt like I couldn’t fully enjoy it and appreciate it’s vibe.

I have heard good opinions from other people though so I wouldn’t fully take my word on that it’s boring but there is only enough to cover 2 days in my opinion.

Recommended Accommodation: Bastian Homestay in Fort Kochi.

Related Blog Post:  I was so underwhelmed I didn’t even write one!

Munnar shows a totally different side of Kerala and I really loved it! Munnar is a popular place to see the tea plantations in this area along with lots of Mountains. I stayed in Munnar for 3 nights and 2 days and did a hike to see the tea plantations and some awesome viewpoints.

For me, this is what I wanted to see of inland Kerala and I’m really glad I did. I did see some blog posts saying Munnar is too touristy now and suggesting other hill stations in Kerala but I didn’t even go into the town of Munnar, instead staying at a homestay type place where they offer meals and tours which I’d really recommend doing too and made me really enjoy my time there!

Recommended Accommodation: The Wayside Cottage which is the homestay I stayed in.

Related Blog Post:  Hiking in the Tea Plantations of Munnar, Kerala!

Thekkady also known as Thekkady National Park and Periyar National Park was another nice inland destination in Kerala. The main town to stay in is actually called Kumily. It’s very much centred around tourism but I actually quite liked it.

The most popular thing to do of course is to head out into the National Park which I did on the Borders Hiking Day Tour. It started off quite intense and I was worried I’d gotten myself into a hike that was too hard for me but the main aim of the hike is to see animals, we saw a few like Bisen, Monkeys and some Wild Cows but Wild Elephants were what I wanted to see and thankfully at the end of the trek I did!

It made going there totally worth it and I enjoyed my time there and actually could have stayed for a second full day.

Recommended Accommodation: Green View Hotel

Have you booked your flight to India yet??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!  Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Madurai was the first place I visited in the state of Tamil Nadu, I had no expectations for it and knew nothing about it apart from it’s iconic Hindu Temple.

To be honest there isn’t that much more to do in Madurai but I did really enjoy the City. It’s bustling like all other Cities but it’s manageable and the locals are very friendly! I took a walking tour out with Story Trails which helped me understand more about the City.

I enjoyed The Lost Hostel where I stayed which helped enhance my few days in Madurai. I feel like this city may get missed off travellers India itinerary but it’s worth a visit I think!

Recommended Accommodation: The Lost Hostel , it’s the only hostel in Madurai but it has a kitchen, great rooftop and a washing machine.. bonus!

Related Blog Post:  What To Do in Madurai, Tamil Nadu in Just One Day!

-Pondicherry

Pondicherry was what I thought it would be, it’s a very Indian Town but the main centre and the ‘tourist area’ is a place called White Town where the French once lived which means it’s filled with lots of nice buildings.

Some are more preserved than others and in no way is it an ‘artificial’ town, it’s very real and raw India but I liked seeing something a bit different to the usual Cities and Towns.

Plus Pondicherry has some nice cafes selling international food.. and lots of bread! I ate as much bread as I could here and it was great!

Auroville is a popular place to visit as a day trip from Pondicherry for for a few days so I enjoyed taking myself there for the morning.

Recommended Accommodation:  The only hostel in Pondicherry right now is Micasa Hostel but that’s fine because I really liked it, really comfy beds and a kitchen!  Villa Krish   and Hotel de Petit  are good hotel in Pondicherry options.

Related Blog Post:  Visiting Auroville on a Day Trip from Pondicherry.  &  10 Things To Do in Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu!

-Mahabalipuram

I did not like this place at all and felt that I wasted two days there. Firstly it was much busier than usual there as it was a state holiday but the town is very small and the main attractions of mahabalipuram are to see some rocks, rock carvings and caves.

The free ones that I saw were impressive in that they are so old but I just felt myself think- have I used up 2 days just to see some rocks??

Mahabalipuram Beach is a local beach and not that clean and the accommodation in the town is very lacking in good quality places.

Even though I had a particularly bad experience I wouldn’t recommend it anyway. The best way to see Mahabalipuram if you really want to is on a day trip from Chennai or staying at a nice resort to make it like a holiday!

Score:  0

Recommended Accommodation:  The Radisson Blu with its own pool and dining complex looks like the best way to enjoy the area!

Chennai doesn’t have any major attractions but it has a nice Hindu Temple, some Churches, some viewpoints and although it’s big it’s easy to get around. I did a tour with Story Trails which I enjoyed and helped me understand more about Hinduism and the City.

I wasn’t in love with Chennai and don’t have any need to go back but I enjoyed a few days there especially learning about the History of the British in Chennai and the Portuguese.

I did think it was a good place to visit for first time travellers to India though and I know it’s a popular first destination due to it’s cheap flights.

Recommended Accommodation:  One of the only hostels is Red Lollipop Hostel which is where I stayed, it’s a good place to meet new people, and has a kitchen!

Mysore is kind of split into two. It’s known for its grand architecture and especially the Palace which is very impressive. It has many other attractions too but they are all quite far from the City.

It’s also known as a good yoga hub in India but as I found out, this isn’t in the centre of Mysore City, it’s out in the neighbourhood of Gokulam.

I wasn’t a huge fan of Mysore but that’s because I stayed near the palace (I was ill and a bit over cities by this point), however I did enjoy my day out to Gokulam visiting some of its nice cafes. And I have heard that many other people do really like the city of Mysore. It is very unique and different to anywhere else with some very nice buildings.

Mysore has Uber which works really well and is a cheap way of getting around.

If you want to sight

Recommended Accommodation: The Green Hotel is very nice if you have the budget. The Manor Hostel is highly recommended too, and if you want Yoga in Mysore stay in Gokulam .

HELP WITH YOUR INDIA ITINERARY

I’ve spent many months travelling India in the last few years visiting over 50 places around the country, here are my recommended itinerary posts for India to help you plan your trip!

2 WEEK INDIA ITINERARY, PERFECT FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP!

2 WEEK SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY – GOA & KERELA

1 MONTH NORTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

1 MONTH SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

2 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY IN THE NORTH & SOUTH

MY 4 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY!

24 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA!

Bangalore was my last stop in India after nearly 4 weeks. I enjoyed it but mainly because it felt so much more westernised and that made ma happy! Bangalore’s Metro system is clean and easy to use which I loved.

I stayed in the area of Indiranagar which I would really recommend, it has a metro stop but also so many cool places to eat and drink from local independent places to big chains like Nando’s, Costa, Pizza Hut.

Sightseeing in Bangalore isn’t the easiest I found. I went to the Palace via metro and tuk tuk but it cost so much to get in plus extra charges for camera’s, the art museum also cost a lot. It has a few nice parks though and some shopping centres if you need to do some shopping.

I’d say Bangalore is a good stopping point or half way point in India if you need some Westernisation!

Recommended Accommodation:  I stayed in  Blooms Room  Indiranagar and really loved it! Otherwise there is a  Zostel Hostel  &   Backpacker Panda Hostel  in Indiranagar too.

This is a super long post but I hope it gives you some real insights into what each place in India is like from where I visited and I visited most of the major tourist places in India!

I will be going back to India and will continue to keep this updated so make sure you bookmark it for future use!

This post contains affiliate links but at no extra cost to you.

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Saturday 13th of April 2019

My friend just got back from India and loved it! He went in summer though and said it was unbearably hot. I definitely want to get there someday. Thanks for so much info!

TheWanderingQuinn

Thanks for reading Eric. Ooh yes you want to avoid the Summer in India unless you’re going high into the mountains in the North. Their Autumn & winter is the best time to visit. :)

Friday 22nd of February 2019

Wow this is an Encylopedia of India’s best places to visit! What a fantastic read.

Haha thank you Nikki! Hopefully it’s useful! :)

nerede çekiliyor

Sunday 10th of February 2019

Really great place. I'd like to be there. Thanks.

Thursday 14th of February 2019

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The Sticky thread with agency and guide recommendations is full of posts from people very new to posting. I have found this generally happens when they are asked or helped to make these posts.

How can I go about finding a good agency?

14 replies to this topic

We have made 3 trips over the last 6 years or so with Mr Ganpat - he is honest, reliable and very flexible. Price is excellent and he will help you with the itinerary and all your hotel requirements. He has endless patience ! Thoroughly recommended

http://www.incredibletourtoindia.com/

[email protected]

+91 97832 81234

Ask your some friends or colleagues those are already visited this part of world. Also see the feedback and suggestions from other guests and of course reliable services feedback from the TA threads.

Dear maryann-ns,

Welcome to TA forum, here there are so many travel agent & tour expert here on this TA Forum with good review, (with RATO & IATO registered) you can contact any one, better you can contact to tour operators or and get the quote from 2-4 of them for better quotation.

// How can I go about finding a good agency?//

First question is whether you want an Indian operator or an operator based in your home country.

If Indian-based then take a look at these for comparison purposes. Keep in mind that these operators will customise any trip to your specifications.

https://www.indianpanorama.in/

https://www.swagatam.com/

Fortunate India Tours

@maryann-ns,

There are so many reputed operator listed with TA so you may contact directly to traveler for getting fare review.

You can also share details here basically what you are looking ? for fare price / suggestions.

Thanks & Regards,

Go My Journey

Namaste maryann-ns,

We suggest to share the destinations, number of days you have decided to travel on this forum post and experts listed on this forum will share their expertise suggestions and afterwards, based on liking of the suggestions you can direct message to the two to three experts, to quote the rates and can choose one to make arrangements after comparing the quote, services and inclusions

Not so much Trip Advisor as Marketplace.

Thank you for the responses. I should have mentioned that tour operators answering this post will not be considered.

suepardesshanna, this is your first post, but I have looked at your reviews and will consider your recommendation.

Thank you to DrRudi as well.

Rakesh thanks for your post.

On a solo trip several years ago, I used IndiaSomeday. They arranged everything and were easy to communicate with. While they can suggest itineraries, I recommend you tell them the style of travel you expect so that you are not placed in accommodations or given transportation options that won't meet your expectations. As I recall, they charge a flat fee based on the length of your stay. I also assume there is some extra compensation baked into some other costs.

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

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles March 22, 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, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, 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 .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Is India Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• India : Safety by City
• Navi Mumbai
• Thiruvananthapuram

The largest country in the South Asia Region, the land impossible to remember once you visit it, India, is located in the center of South Asia.

Officially referred to as the Republic of India, it is the seventh-largest country in the world by area and has a population of over one billion people.

It is second only to China in population, though probably not for long.

India is an extremely memorable country, and due to its size, it varies widely in geography, climate, culture, language and ethnicity across the country.

As for tourist attractions and things to see and do in India, there are so many options that you would probably need to stay in India for a period of six months in order to see it all.

It one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and fastest developing countries which make its cities an attraction by themselves.

Though it has its parts that are ridden with poverty, it’s considered to be an emerging superpower.

Among the breathtaking things to see in India is one of the world wonders – the Taj Mahal, you can see tigers in some of the best national parks, and enjoy the Goa beach that is visited by more and more tourists every year.

• Warnings & Dangers in India

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Though India is considered a generally safe country, due to its size, there are more dangerous areas and less dangerous ones. It is necessary that you remain vigilant at all times.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Be wary of pickpockets in public transport, and taxi drivers (as well as tuk-tuk drivers) trying to rip you off. Be especially careful in the overnight buses or trains and don't accept any food or drinks as they might be spiked. Keep in mind that driving is dangerous because of poor road conditions and the fact that India follows the left-hand driving system.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets operate literally everywhere in India. Be careful not to get your pockets picked and bag snatching is another very common form of petty theft. Pickpockets are especially common in public transport.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

The main threats to India when it comes to natural disasters are earthquakes, floods and severe storms that commonly hit this beautiful country causing great damage.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Muggings and kidnappings aren't at all common in India.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

India keeps being targeted by terrorists so there is a great risk of them trying to carry out an attack again. Anti-Western terrorist groups sometimes operate in India, including Islamist extremist groups.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

This is a serious issue in India. If you're a first-time traveler to India, you will most certainly get scammed as this country is notorious for scams performed on tourists. Taxi scams with taxi drivers convincing you to take other accommodation are very common, as are those where vendors give you less change than they should. Whatever service anyone offers you - you find out how much it costs first, because they will try to charge literally everything.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Sexual assaults are on the rise in India, and it is dangerous for women to travel alone in this country, whether by day or night. Always strive to be accompanied by someone when outside. Move-in groups and avoid poorly lit and deserted streets.

• So... How Safe Is India Really?

Generally speaking, India is mostly safe for tourists.

Violent crime isn’t common in this country, especially not against foreigners, while petty theft does exist but it is more prominent in areas frequented by tourist.

You can expect pickpockets in crowded places such as bus and train stations, and it is highly advised that you keep your bags and belongings tightly by your side because bag snatching is also one of the popular forms of petty crime.

Thieves have been known to break into accommodations and rooms where tourists reside.

Be prepared that people are going to try and scam you or extort money from you, even the police, though the situation with corruption has improved during the last couple of years.

Keep in mind that homosexuality is illegal in India under a colonial-era law, with penalties of imprisonment or a fine.

The law that is still in force has been used for years to harass the LGBTQ community.

Police officers have been known to harass, extort money from and blackmail homosexuals in India, so members of LGBTQ might want to think twice before venturing into this country.

India follows the left-hand driving system, which can cause difficulties for tourists wishing to rent a car.

If you plan on driving in India, bear in mind that Indian roads aren’t in the best condition and that Indian drivers can oftentimes be reckless when behind the wheel, and don’t forget that you might run into wandering livestock on the road.

• How Does India Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries need a visa in order to enter India. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, it is best to visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa.

The Indian rupee is the official currency in India. ATMs are widespread in most towns and as for credit cards, it is advised to always carry cash as a backup. MasterCard and Visa are the most widely accepted credit cards.

Indian climate is mostly influenced by the Himalayas and the Thar Desert. Since it is so large, the climate in India vastly varies, ranging from tropical in the south to temperate and alpine in the Himalayan north. The elevated areas in the north commonly receive sustained winter snowfall.

Indira Gandhi International Airport is the primary civilian hub for the National Capital Region of Delhi, India. It is located in Palam, 15 km south-west of the New Delhi railway station and 16 km from New Delhi city centre.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to India, since it covers not only the costs medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

India Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

India - Safety by City

Explore india.

• 13 Cheapest Places to Live in India
• 10 Best Beaches in India
• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in India
• 10 Most Beautiful Castles in India
• 10 Safest Cities in India
• A Culinary Tour of India for Vegetarians
• Where to Next?

113 Reviews on India

Section 377, LGBTQ+ people are now legal in India.

Awesome India

Contrary to what internet mentions, India is a very safe country if you understand and respect local culture, tradition and beliefs. Excluding the 7 metros, women dont go out putting their meat on display. Dress modestly and in comfortable clothing without putting your undergarments on display. You are seeking unwanted attention when you dont dresss properly. I have travelled every other year to India and not once I have been mugged or my drink has been spiked even after accepting drinks from strangers. The biggest safety factor in India for tourists is its population !! There are just people everywhere and nowhere to hide from public. Tell me which city in west doesnt have shady areas in its cities and towns? Indian also has its fair share. Avoid them and you will be safe. Day time is very very safe in India and dow aht you want. pickpocket is a huge problem but mainly in 4 metros and big cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad. On another note, it is fun to watch how people of differnet religion, belief, culture live in one country with such a good harmony. They not only celebrate Hindu festivals like Diwali and Holi, but also celebrate Eid, Christmas, Mahavir jayanthi and Hanukkah. You will NEVER see that ANYWHERE in the world.

Thank you soooooo much

You will see multi ethnic celebrations in Mauritius too

I went and was almost scammed every 5-10 minutes… people trying to pick pocket and being annoyed by everyone trying to be my friend….. holiday turned into a nightmare

How surprising, people in India have fear from law and order. So, no such thing happens. Yes, of course wherever this happens are not tourist or general place to visit by tourist or normal Indians even. India is safe to travel in night even. Roads are much better now in past 5-6 years. Everything is online and record of booking and can be shared with any of your known. Every genuine travel co. is on apps enabled with police alerting system. Everyone in India will tell you where to go if you want some such adventure. That is for Indians themselves as well. But no one will kill you.

Well said 🙏

I agree...India is quite safe.

You might want to visit Suriname on the northwest coast of South America. Diwali and Holi, Eid, Christmas, Mahavir Jayanti as well as Hanukkah, all publicly celebrated there as well. BTW – I enjoyed my visit to India very much and found it quite safe. Of course, I investigated and respected local customs during my visit.

This is why my Dutch Indian friend said We Indian always said we’re proud of something or we’re good at something but in the end, they are not. They are just skippy mean they rather ignore the mistake and keep doing mistake. Why not just said we’re not proud human beings but we are trying to make things living better and make it safe. Like for India r*pe crime is like Holy *** that s*** higher than Covid infection

religious hatred on raise

I don’t know when you wrote this review… but today India is a country of concern for women, minorities and hindu dalits Multiple agressions against minorities, religious hate speech by politicians and hindu godmens have rosen to 1130 % last year… Unfortunately the bjp ruling party pays heavily the medias to mask all the odds but only lies on the net.. Anyway just check your consul services and you will have better information

Best Country to visit, live, learn and enjoy.

am not sure which part of country or even the world you have roam around! India is by far one of the most safest countries for people of all the cast, color and sex. Its population is almost 4 times of USA and there are more than 18 officially recognized languages in India, with every 100 Kms the dialect gets changed and every state having there own mother and state languages. With so much of diversity and with a population of 1.39 billions its pity how the fewer cases of violence and aggression are read as biggest threats to the community and harmony. When the whole world is crippling against the religious hatred India is holding its head way higher as epitome of religious harmony. In US, every other day some or the other racial attack will happen, people will ignore, go to Paris the most beautiful city in the Europe, every minute of your walk will be full of fear of getting looted or attacked by small miscreants. Forget nights, even in the day time its so unsafe to walk in the streets of Paris. Everywhere pick pocketing will happen. On the concern of women, no western world can stand in front of India. As every day hundreds of cases will come up as the crime against women, child in the US, Germany, France but nothing seems to effect you people but the cases or crimes once it happened in India becomes a world wide spectra. Agreed India is still developing and still in lag with the western world but when it comes to the safety and developments it is and it will always be the best country to visit, live, learn and enjoy. cheers!

It’s an amazing country,best place for tourists to enjoy and above all I guarantee you the safety as well .Yes go well dressed be decent enough and there you go the finest things ,places food shopping to enjoy .Yes there is no country in the world 100% safe but from all India is the safest .Thanks.

Nope..just because you are india..you won’t deny anything right..rape cases happen in india every 13 sec lol

Your attitude makes things better or worse

pick pockets, frauds are around everything else is good. nowadays some moral policing cases reported. anyhow dont believe any one blindly then it would be a nice vacation over there

India is Safe

India is the most misunderstood country in the world.

There is no country in the world which assure 100% safety in the world, same with India.

There are few pointers which separate India from the outside world:

1. People carrying a gun or any dangerous weapon is uncommon and not legal in India. While most of the nations are fighting with this problem, India is far better and secure in these terms. 2. Indian people are genuinely good, especially in tourist areas like Goa, Kerala, Maharashtra, Northern State, Kashmir and more. They accepted tourism as a culture and source of earning. 3. I do not buy writers comment about terrorism in India. I am not denying terrorism especially in one state JnK has some issues, but even in that state they treat guests and tourist well and there is not a single incident in JnK in last 20+ years where foreign tourist face any problem. All other India is completely safe. 4. Women safety is a world wide issue and needs to be taken seriously. Basic precautions are necessary not only in India but in every part of the world. Indians are mostly well-behaved but misunderstood in this term. 5. India is too crowded to be unsafe :-).

India is a beautiful country with all the flavors and culture.

Few things as per me you need to take care of are:

1. Don’t drive. If you are an outsider do not even try to drive in India, even if you are a certified F1 driver. 2. Avoid street food, especially who has a weak stomach. 3. Choose your time carefully to visit India in terms of weather.

Edit it man

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

Thank you for your advice.

Nice joke,india is safe country

Really nice pieces of information. Thanks for sharing. We have not seen any terrorist attack out of J&K for the last 7 years. Today India has the best government that nicely maintains terrorism.

What ever Hemendra Singh told about india is absolutely correct generally indian people are friendly behivour with others they give all respect to evey one , they won’t think indian are foreign but unfortunately media either india are foreign not giving importance about this beautiful country to visit every one . regarding safety some croudy places may be pickpocketers problem arise this is not in all only populated cites that’s in railway station Most rush areas if person takes care there is nothing to be done .

Not good for all community.

Aptly said…in fact you gave a realistic picture of India as a country. It is pretty better in safety compared to the other countries in the subcontinent

Stop being bias Hemendra Singh Patel

Reading your reply it shows that you are a bias Indian trying to defend his country without knowing much about other countries.

1. Gun problem is typically a US problem. Saying that most nations are fighting this problem shows your ignorancy about other countries. 2. The problem is you don’t see it from a tourist’s point of view. Depending on where, you are literally harrased every few minutes from people asking money, wherever you go prices are more than actual prices, same for taxis and such… Ofc you’ll never experience this as a local. 3. Are you living under a rock if you seriously think there hasn’t been terrorist attacks in the last 20 years? The 2008 attack on Mumbai was so horrible why would you pretend it never happen. While I agree that many countries are more at risk, we can’t say that India outside J&K is completely safe. That’s a lie. 4. Women safety is not a world issue. Go to most european countries. Go to Scandinavia. People over there will laugh at your ignorant statement. You just can’t deny the number of rape and sexual agressions. Well-behaved or not, numbers don’t lie… 5. Population cannot be an excuse. China has around the same population but it is way more safe for tourists.

safest place in the world

Everything said in this page is wrong, India is one of the safest places in the world. first rape and other sexual assault has been going down for 12 years straight now and mugging is not a problem. Terriosim is a very small risk but still it is a risk but very little. if you go to India theirs almost no chance of being the victim of a terrorist attack. transportation is mainly safe but i will say India is very corrupt its also very cheap which is good for you. honestly its the perfect place to visit theirs so many things to do. you will probably hear a lot about dont travel to the Pakistan boarder but actually theirs a bunch of festivals and gatherings at the boarder and its perfectly safe. India is extremely safe period.

Do not visit unless you want to catch a third world undiscovered disease

Ignorance is bliss, clearly.

Racist much?

No racism in her comment, but I didn't see anyone get sick.

Wait. Did Magdelena write anything about race? This fake “wokeness” is getting too thick. She said nothing about race, she commented on the liklihood of getting sick, which I might add is quite low, because of all of the vaccinations one needs to get before visiting India. I had a great time (2016) and did not witness anyone getting sick, but I did see several people who were carrying guns and they were not police. With the prevalence of guns in the US, it might not surprise you to know many people like me are tuned to be able to spot someone with a concealed weapon. I spotted several while in India. I minded my own business and had lots of fun. India not dangerous for me, but I could see how a woman might be intimidated in some situations there more so than in most countries.

Now get lost

We are very happy that you won’t visit, we have enough chutiye as it is. India is as safe as you want it to be. Don’t be stupid and you’ll have the best time of your life, but that’s applicable for the entire planet, not just India.

You are Just Idiots. Most Corona cases are in USA and even after so much Population less number of cases

What does that have to do with it?

What does COVID-19 have to do with traveler safety in India? Did you post to the wrong thread or something?

You must be Pakistani

India is Safe, cultured and friendly

There is no such issue. How surprising, people in India have fear from law and order. they care of safety, food and life much more than any European or American now. So, no such thing happens. Yes, of course wherever this happens are not tourist or general place to visit by tourist or normal Indians even. India is safe to travel in night even. Roads are much better now in past 5-6 years. Everything is online and record of booking and can be shared with any of your known. Every genuine travel co. is on apps enabled with police alerting system. Everyone in India will tell you where to go if you want some such adventure. That is for Indians themselves as well. But no one will kill you.

SO RUDE!!!!!!!

Historically, most epidemics have started in European countries due to the terrible sanitation systems and the high population density in their overcrowded cities (Smallpox plague spread through North America by colonizers). I hope you’re trying to be sarcastic, because I’m not. Not talking about Covid, but a high population density OVERALL does not equate “third world undiscovered disease”, and it definitely does not equate ignorance, that mantle is held firmly by Internet users and review posters.

Safe, but not completely safe.

I would not say it is the safest place in the world, but it is relatively safe to travel there. Pickpockets are there, and it does have quite a few common scams in the busy district of India, such as a bird poop scam, in which they often deliberately spill poop on your shoes without you noticing, then pretend that they are the good ones, helping you clean your shoe up. Afterwards, they charge crazy prices for your cleaning after they are done. Terrorism may happen here as well, but I bet it is quite rare in India. What I don’t exactly agree with you is the sexual assault. India is a place where you have to be wary. Avoid going to dimly lit areas because that’s where most prey. Other than that, enjoy your trip to India. Have been there thrice, and will do it again.

obviously Indian ppl care too much abt their country image and try to defend whenever and wherever possible–it only tells me one thing–their lack of confidence and eagerness of getting acknowledge and accepted

ye paka pakistani hai… m sure!!!

Says the well-behaved Indian ^

As an Indian I observed how chinese media loves to portray India as the worst place possible yet Chinese are among the top five countries which visit India so you enjoy living in your small bubble of ignorance. It would be better for us.

Stop being bias

Anonymous, your reply made no sense. Chinese are not even top 10 countries that visit india the most. Most are from the US, UK, Bangladesh, Canada, Nepal. And what that shows is they are probably Indians visiting their relatives in India… Your comment just proved the point of the OP.

Unsafe for attractive women

Don’t go as an attractive American female. You’ll be harassed, yelled at, followed and in fear.

You can’t wear normal American attire. You can’t even go to a bar and drink without being physically intimidated or even mildly assaulted as a woman. You can’t go to any tourist attraction without being consistently bombarded and scammed. You’ll spend weeks sick to your stomach. I’ve traveled all over the world and never felt more unsafe than when in India.

I’ve seen men beat women openly in public with the police onlooking and not caring; I’ve seen an older orphan beat a toddler until his head split open and the police told me not to try to stop it, that this is how it’s supposed to be. The men are the most sexually aggressive of any country I’ve ever been to and won’t take no for an answer, and that says a lot.

I’ve been to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, and felt less threatened as a woman in all three. I’m not a tourist with a bad attitude, I opened an entire office in India with hundreds of employees and lived there for 6 months while doing so. It was quite possibly the worst human rights violation I’ve ever witnessed.

Equal rights are not a thing

People who think women’s basic rights are safe in India are blind to a growing problem of epic proportions. I’ve seen too much documented proof to believe that India is just as safe, as say, Norway, for the female traveler.

+BN yes violence is not nice and the police should be more vigilant when they see things like that but if by ‘normal american attire’ you mean skimpy/tight clothes and mini skirts drinking in a country where girls wear long shalwar kameez and dupaatas on their heads and don’t leave the house without their fathers/brothers/husbands so men don’t have a chance to raise an eyebrow or harass them then i would also be ashamed of you if i saw you like that. even women TV presenters wear a headscarf when they visit countries where women cover their hair to show respect. and seriously go sort out your abusive, racist president before talking about a country that was divided, scammed and robbed of for years by all of u ppl in exchange for your bloody alcohol and is now a third world country. and who said you are ‘attractive’?????? maybe in fifty kilos of makeup (that one of the 60,000,000 child laborers in india has mined minerals for in tunnels to put in your lipsticks) learn some manners.

…okay calm down…

You are not talking about India, women do not need anyone’s permission do go anywhere unless they are Muslim. Islam is one of many religions in India, do not give an unnecessary impression of an Islamic country. In general, if you are planning to visit a country, try to respect local customs. If you are not interested in understanding other cultures then there is very little point in your being here, and India already has enough people as it is. You are free to wear what you please as long as it is legal, but if you have noticed that people around you dress more conservatively, then you can’t with any conviction complain about the amount of attention you draw when you are aware why you are drawing it. Tourist scams are a thing, the exchange rate is so high that tourists don’t notice when they are being overcharged and they get taken advantage of at times. It is better to travel in a group, and bars in India are as unsafe as they are all over the world.

As for the violence you are talking about, I’ve lived 20 years in India and never seen anything like it, and I don’t even live in a “safe area”. Granted, some people engage in violence. That is rare, and rarer in India than its occurence worldwide.

It seems you open your office right in the middle of Wasseypur. I’ve never seen the amount of crime you’ve seen in just 6 months, that’s got be a record. The point about children spilitting each other’s heads open was a nice one, did you take video? The amount of BS you’ve written is insane’. There are some parts of the country that are definitely bad, and it seems you chose those exact places for some odd reason. Can’t blame a stupid person for being stupid.

DONT GO THERE I got robbed 3 times when I only went there only for 3 days just to visit the mosque and I am an American.

Danger country in the would

Yes , I am agree with you and I am live in India from birth , I am also some experience.

I think you travelled to Pakistan and mistakenly writing about India 😂😂🍌🍌

Rapist/Goons\uneducTed/ uncuvilized/castesystem/ poverty/overpopulation

Lets face the truth my fellow Indians, India is very unsafe for its own ppl too. My gf from germany visited india and was harassed to almost mentally raped level.

An Honest Reply to this Comment.

I have to write this reply to clear others’ misconceptions (most of them). and mind you… I’m not writing this to save my country’s image and “eagerness to get acknowledged and accepted”.

I’ll be honest with you all.

First, you tell me, if you could… How many places have you and your “gf” visited in India?

1. I do accept the point of overpopulation, but hardly any few places are there where you’ll be choked to death (***sarcasm if you didn’t get***).

2. According to you, if you’re considering a person “not knowing English” as uneducated, then… my boy… I’ll have to assume that, you’ve never visited any European countries (except the UK ofc).

3. Rapes and goons… well tbh, rapes cases happen in India in a significant amount. so for that one, I’ll recommend taking extra care while visiting any places. But goons?? are you that “popular/demanded to be dead” person? if you’ve faced any cases of goons (I’m assuming your life got threatened multiple times)… I think because of the naiveness you’ve got from fake news on the internet, any person got impatient and wanted you to be dead (***sarcasm again***). but tbh…. I’ve hardly seen any goons cases in both mainstream media (authorized) and in my personal life.

4. Uncivilized (pls improve your chatting/typing skills)… now I don’t know where’ve you went for tourism, or lived? If you think most of the people around you are uncivilized… nothing to say, teach your “elite” standard of living to your “uneducated” people in those countries where your concept of “being civilized” is accepted by most of the people there. Here, people will live their lives according to their lifestyle and livelihood… and yeah… different countries have their own culture… tourism is meant to know and experience those different cultures and lifestyle apart from their own. (that’s one of the basic things you should know if you’re touring).

5. Caste system… yeah. This happens but not in all places. you’ll see this in rural and few town areas of the northern region in India (states like UP). but it doesn’t make sense how this integral matter (poverty point too) of our country will affect any other’s tourism…

Female traveler alert

yes thats my experience as a female traveler from North Asia I tend to wear trousers and t shirts when sightseeing which isnt generally considered skimpy. Even when travelling with groups, the women with us would get harassed constantly by the local men. It was just shocking and stressful.

She lives in India, dude.

It is getting worse with Hindu Nationalism on the rise.

Yeah, right.

Sure. Hindu extreme terrorists are destroying all sense of safety you could feel in your home. Do try to sound less ridiculous next time.

Muslims are the problem

LOL, tell me one hindu terrorist group in the world.. everywhere Muslims make the mess. Now, enough, hindus have started countering terrorist Muslims.

India is unsafe place for woman to travel alone or in small group

Come on I haven’t been to Norway , but been to Dubai, London ,Toronto and all are way safer than India especially Haryana and Delhi are most unsafe for woman to travel alone even in day.I have heard so many cat calls and rowdy behavior in India.No need to sugar coat the fact.India is possibly worst place for woman to visit

Yes, our country is not the most safest for women. I would not recommend visiting rural areas as it is more unsafe there, most of the urban areas with the exception of Delhi are very safe for everyone. Just be sure to not get out of your way to cause trouble and mostly youd be ok!

Safety precautions

India is not safe as everywhere in the world.As a foreigner u need to take a little more precaution and do a little homework before u go there. Book a decent 4 or 5 * international chain hotel and u will be safe.As for taxis and tuk tuks, u cannot trust them better hire a uber or ola .Or ask the hotel for advice.As for the food u just have to check inside the restaurant if u fund it clean . Or u can eat in food courts or take rooms with kitchenette where u can prepare ur own.If u want a budget hotel better book with Airbnb i think they r more reliable.Hope this helps.

Update this page !!

This page is not factually correct LGBTQ is now legal in India and corruption in India has decreased considerably. I have gone with friends who are white women and who were safe throughout their trip. Be cautious as when travelling to every country.

This website is a shit

This is a soo biased website that it says Honduras and El Salvador are safer than India shame on them

yes, I agree with you, because they haven’t updated the things in ages. they have given terrorism as high. Can you please help me with the last terrorist attack in a public place that has casualties except for J&K as scenario it is different and Tourist and normal ppl(Indians) are not allowed to go as of now

How can you exclude terrorist in J&K? The rating is for the entire country and terrorist is indeed high.

The meaning of travel safety has changed in 2020.

if you’re a woman or muslim don’t go

Uhh, 15% of India is Muslim. That’s 196, 374, 000 people. Please elaborate. Women’s safety is dubious in rural regions if they are alone, but travel with just one more person and use your wits to avoid falling into exchange-rate scams. You’ll be fine. Or not.

Wrong Information by website

Who wrote this poppycock ? Surely this person never visited India !! Terrorism is high in India😂😂 Women Traveler’s risk is High 😂😂 The person writing this is High I guess 🙄🤔

Women Traveler’s risk IS high in India.

And if I say about Woman safety – As per NCRB REPORT 2019 1. Over 4 lakh reported cases of crimes against Women 2. 32,033 Rape cases reported (in 2019) So, you decide yourself, you high or the writer high?

That didn’t happen to tourists in india. Also police would support u better if u are a tourist. Even in Jammu where terrorism is high it don’t happen to tourists they literally have so much respect for tourists there.

So you’re saying those things don’t happen? Maybe you want us to come so you can harass the women and scam everyone.

Generally Speaking,India is one of the safest country in the world crime rates are low but serious security crime is rare in India.

Best joke of 2020 😂😂😂

Amazing + PKMKB

The country and it’s people are amazing. Do a bit of research and the scenery will blow your mind. South India is better.

Just stay away from Pakistan border region like Kashmir and you are safe. Really sad what radical islamic insurgency from Pakistan has turned this place into.

Terrorism is non-existent in India now (besides Kashmir valley), women’s safety is a major priority now. Some parts of the country, including parts of Delhi can be considered unsafe but what country doesn’t have such parts? If you use your brain, you will alright.

Delh is unsafe because haryana and UP are its neighbouring states

This does not reflect the India I know. Almost all people you’ll meet are very friendly and hospitable. Simply follow some basics

1. If eating street food: Make sure food is made freshly for you. It should be sizzling hot, Avoid the side salads and ice in drinks Keep to bottled water for drinking n brushing

2. When travelling: Inform hotel or relatives of journey. Use Uber and Ola, most others will charge more. Apply common sense on security of valuables. Hire a driver for the whole day or the entire trip.

3. Sight seeing: Check your guide is an official one. Book excursions with hotel or an agency. Do not give alms to beggars (organised crime).

Overall advice, be vigilante, be sensible but above all enjoy yourself (simple really).

India is Best country in world to visit. People are friendly , World class infrastructure ,4G internet , 3, 5 Star hotel’s Restaurants in every city. Indian food is best in World. From last 10 yrs no terrorist attacks. Everyone is safe here. No serious crimes.

one of best country in the world, where I went, lots of love from pakistan

one of the best country in the world, where I went, lots of love from Pakistan

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO WRONG

THIS ARTICLE IS SOOO WRONG, I VISITED INDIA AND HAD NO PROBLEM AT ALL Please actually visit India and see how safe the is !!!!!!!!!!!

Just mind your own business, stay quiet, and avoid any topics related to religion, caste, and politics … you will be on the safe side.

And if I say about Woman safety – As per NCRB REPORT 2019 1. Over 4 lakh reported cases of crimes against Women 2. 32,033 Rape cases reported (in 2019) So, you decide yourself.

144,300 in USA. and India has 1.4 billion people the USA has 332 million. so the USA has almost 5 times more rape cases per million citizens.

Not too safe

This article is literally a joke.

India is the most unsafe country to live. One of the minsters in india said if girls(tourists) don’t want to get molested they shouldn’t wear revealing clothes. This country is disgusting.

Seriously! , India is unsafe just because some rubbish politician said like that. You are too dumb to if you are believing a single word from a politician. It could be due to the low class mentality or maybe just a publicity stunt to become popular. Yes, people here from 2 tier cities are of conservative thinking. But people in big cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Kolkata they do wear like you said revealing clothes and believe me no one bothers.

Haryana, UP, Bihar, Rajasthan are dustbins of India. Delhi is unsafe for women because Haryana and UP are its neighbouring states

Haryana is a million times safer than Delhi.

OMG is its safer than the united states. this country is like our unsafest city st louis

India not safer than St Louis

Wow. India is a way more dangerous place than St Louis, but I still found India quite safe. But then I’m a 6’3″ 250lb well-muscled man; I don’t even get hassled as a white guy in Zimbabwe.

But I have to ask…you really think St. Louis is “our unsafest city”? Ever been to Baltimore? Yes, St. Louis is not exactly “posh” compared to almost anywhere else in the US, but it really is not unsafe unless you walk around shouting racial slurs in North County. In case you couldn’t tell, I’ve lived in St Louis…didn’t stay long…but still longer than my time in India.

As an Indian who lived in St Louis its really scary especially living closeby to a bad neighbourhood, it was kind of scary as I have literally never heard gunshots in my life and it felt like I was going to die right there.. not to say I have been so close to being mugged…

Jesus Christ yes. The USA is so f… up. But thank god they got rid of trump in the dump!

The good, the bad and the ugly

Poor, filthy and over priced. Scammers everywhere in big cities. Not safe at all for foreign women, lot of sexual harassment if not properly taken care of. Though the food was good but the hygiene was very poor. Ahmedabad is my favorite city and hate Mumbai. Delhi had some awesome food.

Full of rapists, scammers and filthy unwashed people. Also they will greet you while pooping on the street. Yuck.

Allegedly Good.

You should avoid getting raped, this can range from getting raped with a rod, or penis. Better have a pepper spray with you all the time. Also, scammers have their ears raised all the time, hunting for rich white tourists. Religion can be the cause of trouble too. If you’re a Muslim, better not get lynched publicly. Also, don’t get very honest about the ground realities in India, or they’ll call you a “Pakistani Agent” or “Anti-national”. Hindutva Terrorism risk is quite high too, so is the transport risk. Other than these very minor things which are part of any civilized and highly evolved society, India is an extremely safe and tolerant country ☺

Such a foolish and 3rd grade observation. There is no Hindutva terrorism and no one calls you by religion or country. Locals know their culture better than your observation and System know their law and authority to safe guard foreigners. People are supportive to keep you safe and sound. No one cheats you until you yourself get into such groups or places. And that is same for Indians as well. But they will not kill you. Indians have fear of law and order. System and transport and Roads are developed in past 5-6 years like anything.. Everything is online and through internet to connect to govt system. No one can guarantee about scammers though all over the world. But all genuine travelers, Taxi, Air, Train system is well connected now and even connected to police station and Safety system now. All Indians know what is good and bad in taste for their own safety. So, it can be told to tourist as well.

India safe? No, but it's better then it was.

India has been improving in recent decades but make no mistake, it’s still third world. You can see incredible wealth and even more incredible poverty all in the span of a few minutes. It’s a beautiful country, but many have no problems trying to rip you off.

I go to Goa at least once a year, but occasionally go to other parts of the country as well. My company (I work for, not own) does a lot of business in New Delphi, but I try to avoid it like that plague. I much prefer the smaller villages/towns over the massive cities.

Almost everywhere you go, you’ll see a great number of people.

if you say terrorism risk in india is very high tell me how much last year terrorist attack in india and he had captured the tourist or indian people if you really want india visit india

“Transport and Taxis Risk: Keep in mind that driving is dangerous because of poor road conditions and the fact that India follows the left-hand driving system.”

What nonsense. I’m willing to believe that road conditions are probably poor, but SURELY the taxi drivers are used to the ‘left-hand driving system’ and have probably spent their whole adult life driving on the left!

Lovely Place to Visit

India is such a good country to visit. Lots of amazing food and places to visit. It’s also getting better. It has improved a lot over the past few years. You should go to india

India is more Secure I have visited plenty of countries like USA, Canada, China but I feel India is Safe Like other countries you Can Enjoy Here

Don’t visit India if you think its not safe for you. Simple.

Hi. I’m Iranian and love India. Visit India soon but i can’t create in bank cuz i’m Iranian :/

Way better than it used to be

I felt safer here than when I visited in the 90s, things have changed drastically. Yes, you still have the occasional petty crimes but if you’re careful and avoid flashing your wallet’s content you will be ok. Plan your daily routes using popular locations, going off track might set you up for a meeting with a desperate mugger.

hindutva fanatism on raise

Current political business by ruling party and other hindu facts : Hate speec, multiple agressions against minorities, communal hatred, religiosity In the last 7 years and particularly in the last 3 years, multiple lynching of muslims and dalit hindus and christians. Beware those people with white skin are considered ‘ Christians ‘ and those with beards and scarfs as mulsims.

I agree…India is quite safe I feel India is Safe Like other countries you Can Enjoy Here Lovely Place to Visit India is such a good country to visit. Lots of amazing food and places to visit. It’s also getting better. It has improved a lot over the past few years. You should go to india

India is no more safe country tnx to Hindutawa

The most important reason is the Hindutva policies of the Modi government. local roits out break there in most area of the country india. For a long time me Hindutva on the peak in India with the advent of Modi government. Not only with Sikhs and Muslims but also Hindu and now Christians rights are not safe in India. The ratio of rape cases are increased at dangerous level, to elaborate this is enough to write that an old age will women about 90 years has been gang rapped in India few days ago. The video of a Hindu boy is viral in which he cuts the girl’s throat in front of his family in past week in the shade of hindutawa,,, just bcz he failed to win the love of that girl.. Tourist are not safe there also bcz of the security is only in the eyes of the media of india but not in the reality. Kashmir issue and khalistan issue has gained more power and danger of local roits no one can deny this…

India is a Safest country

India is a safest country. There is no doubt about it. As Indians are facing too many issues in america and other countries. India is a safest country

Safe Place, just use common sense and try to respect local tradition and blend in

I visited Chennai, Tanjore, Trichy, Kozhikode, Kovalam, Wayanad, Munnar and a few more places in Kerala during September 2018 along with my family. I can throw some light on a few aspects :

1. Transport – We only used Cab (OLA ?) so I cant speak about public transit. But we did try the metro in Chennai and it was exactly like here in DC but much more clean. I don’t know who would accept food and drinks from strangers anywhere so that point doesn’t make sense.

2. Pickpockets – Cant comment on this but I did carry cash everywhere and I was fine. I never used any coins and the currency is very similar, just round off everything to the nearest 10. This honestly seems so minor but I would suggest keeping any important IDs like passport in a Hotel or something if you are worried.

3. Terrorism – I did some reading on this while planning for the trip, apparently most of the terrorism is concentrated in the northern areas and its pretty much non-existent anywhere else. Honestly I am more scared of mugging and homeless shootings here in DC.

4. Natural Disaster – India is such a big country and this is something that can happen anywhere anytime. Unless you are travelling to say Japan this entire section is ridiculous. It rained and there was water everywhere but never enough to cause a problem.

5. Risk for women – This seems to be the most debated issue. There were a lot of stares but NO ONE misbehaved inappropriately. Again, we have a lot of experience travelling abroad and we do our best to dress conservatively and not stand out in a crowd.

My overall take is to just use common sense and respect the local customs. India is a conservative place so don’t go running around in swimsuits. Its not our place to question if its right or wrong just respect the local tradition and blend in as much as possible. We were planning a second trip to Delhi. Agra, Leh etc. last year but you know what happened !

Poor and developing country usally safe for travelling.

India is a diverse country. So there is a high chance you will end up unfollowing societal and cultural practices and could cause trouble to yourselfs. Better use an authorised Tourist Guide if you are concerned of safety while travelling in India even though the country is generally Safe.

(Disregard my rating but do read my opinion)

The most common myth about India is that crimes against women are frequent. People should know that safety level is judged by crime rate (i.e., per capita) and not by total number of occurrences. There are certainly discriminations against women, especially in rural India, but women are no way in a disadvantageous position in urban India than anywhere else in the world. (we know there is underreporting and the ideal rate should be zero but one cannot simply inflate the figure to suit one’s narrative.)

Further, although petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft are common, violent crimes are rare. If you know the things to avoid while in the country, you can enjoy your time very much. All you need is to ask someone from your circle and your country what are things to be cautious about.

the hindu terrorism is increasing. People of other religions like muslims, sikhs and christians are in danger if living or traveling in India.

Indian delights

Most guys in India don`t respect women, that`s the problem. We travelled a lot in India as two always very decently dressed women and we felt harassed in most cities except Kerala. we truly not recommand you to travel in India as a woman.Even with men`s companion people widely dont hesitate to bother you, may be beggars or shopkeepers. Its very exhausting. The other issue is, that India is a very, very dirty country and most people don`t care about cleanliness and hygiene, especilly the toilets are unexplically dirty and no wonder the food is also unsafe. So travel in India is really an experience far from safety! If you want to enjoy indian culture, you better go to Mauritius or Singapur!

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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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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Traveling India by Bus: Are buses in India safe?

Last Updated on June 7, 2023 by Christine Kaaloa

It’s no secret I’m a big fan of public transportation . Buses in particular .  So traveling Indian bus was a must for me! But is traveling by bus in India safe for female solo travelers?

Until now, the notion of getting around India by bus intimidated me.  Every time I’d see a bus parked at a stop, it looked like a rudimentary tin cans on wheels, packed tight and spilling over with people. It’s much easier and more comfortable planning your India trip around train travel .

Read how to plan your first India trip (with costs)

Also traveling India, I found there’s a high population of males. It can feel intimidating to be female solo traveler in India much less alone in a sea of Indian men. As a foreign female, aside from being stared at, it wasn’t bad. It turned out to be an enjoyable way to get around and it’s surprisingly simple, once you get the hang of it. Or let me rephrase… it’s really not too hard.

Read: The ultimate guide to getting around India’s transportation

Table of Contents: Traveling India by Bus: Are buses in India safe?

• 1 A Guide to Traveling India by Bus
• 2.1.1 Local Bus (aka the slow bus making every stop)
• 2.1.2  Fast to Superfast Bus
• 2.1.3 VIP or Luxury Bus
• 2.1.4 How to find your bus?
• 3 Are sleeper buses in India safe?
• 4.1 Avoid the sleeper compartment
• 4.2 Avoid the air conditioned bus
• 5 How to book your bus in advance from abroad
• 6 Is traveling India by bus safe for female solo travelers?
• 7.0.1 Publicly call out the transgressor
• 7.0.2 Know sexual harassment in India is a crime.
• 7.0.3 Dress modestly
• 7.0.4 Observe the ‘Ladies Only’ sections
• 8 Do Indian buses make bathroom rest stops?
• 9 Where to put luggage on an Indian bus ?
• 10 Bus Stations in India
• 11.0.1 Share your tips about traveling India by bus as female solo traveler?
• 11.1 Trip planning for India and want to know where to start?
• 12 Best Travel Insurance for India

A Guide to Traveling India by Bus

I decided to make it my goal to use the public bus to get around down the southwestern coast of India. From the tourist VIP bus to the local government bus system, I traveled by various buses from Mumbai down to the southern coast ( Goa , Hampi , Gokarna , Kerala and my yoga ashram ) to southern tip of India and then all the way up to Madurai. Here is what I’ve learned so far…

Indian government buses

Most of India gets around via bus. Each region or state, has their own bus system, which runs intercity and long-distance. Buses can get very crowded, but the advantage to using them is that they run more often than trains and can sometimes, be quicker. There’s a fare collector on the bus and he’ll make his way through the bus to collect fare or you can buy a ticket at the bus station.

When it gets crowded, 70-80% of the folk are male and don’t expect incoming passengers to be discouraged by the sight of an over-crowded bus. Lack of wiggle room isn’t a deterrent for Indians.  They’re used to waiting in long lines for hours and standing in packed quarters. So they’ll just push on in…

Seating tip: They say it’s common for Indians to “lose their chapatis” on these buses ( read here). I’d avoid the back of the bus, where it’s the bumpiest and most nauseating. I’ve only experienced this type of situation once and the stomach-sick man was in the very back of the bus, while I was  in the middle. I’d keep my bags off the floor!.

Common types of buses in India

Local bus (aka the slow bus making every stop).

The regular bus is best for short distances. It makes all local stops and is the absolutely cheapest way to go. Cost: As little as 3 rupees (rickshaws start at 20 rupees). Cons: It’s a very basic bus. The seats are a metal bench, so it’s a hard sit.

Advice: Avoid this bus for long distances. When I was in Kerala, I made the big mistake of jumping on this bus to get from Alleypey to Trivandrum . It took 8 hours for what was only a 3 hour ride by luxury bus or train. This bus made every local stop along the highway… and probably more!

 Fast to Superfast Bus

The signs on them don’t say  F ast or S uperfast buses for nothing.  These buses are so speedy, that when the driver hits the brakes, the standing passengers can go flying. So if you’re standing, make sure you have a firm grip ! But the buses are great for traveling long distances. They stop mostly at main hubs and they’re cheaper than the VIP government or VIP tourist bus.

Cons:  Again, it’s a very basic bus ; they’re the same as the ordinary/regular bus.

Advice:  If you’re sitting, there’s no problem but if you’re standing, hold on tight and get your stance ready. The fast/superfast is very jerky so I’d definitely avoid the back of the bus, which is the bumpiest.

VIP or Luxury Bus

I took a curtained VIP AC bus direct from Kochi to Trivandrum . It took 5 (?) hours and made one rest stop/lunch stop at a roadside restaurant. The seats were padded, separate and reclining. There was a television monitor but nothing played on my ride.  It was not crowded. Cost :  It’s a bit more pricey than the previous three buses. I paid around 200 rupees, but the cost is based on distance.

How to find your bus?

Each state or region has their own type of bus style and regional government buses. All look similar (see some photos here  and here ). The fast and superfast , usually have signs painted on them near their front bumper, on the window sign or on side of bus .  Read more on Indian Bus Survival Guide

Read : Solo Travel Tips for  catching buses in a foreign country (with language barriers)

Are sleeper buses in india safe.

Overnight VIP buses or tourist sleeper buses are good to take. They save on a hotel and they travel direct, generally with one meal or bathroom stop. They’re also a way to meet other travelers. They are run by private companies (i.e. Volvo or Redbus ) so you won’t board them at state bus stations.  Boarding locations can be near their offices or at an area you’ll be given instructions for. However, given a choice between and sleeper bus or train, I prefer the train.

What to avoid in VIP and sleeper buses in India?

After experiencing the VIP (aka tourist bus) and sleeper buses, I realized traveling on an Indian sleeper bus was not for me. They are not comfortable and many are old and lacking in quality. Seat cushions are worn, spaces are tight and sometimes, luggage is in the aisle. Additionally, rest stop bathrooms leave a lot to be desired and if your bus breaks down (which one of mine did), then you’re sitting in a sardine can in the Indian heat for hours.

In fact, I almost recommend taking a simple government bus and traveling by bus during daylight hours. But sometimes, sleeper buses are the only way to get to a small town. So here are tips:

Avoid the sleeper compartment

I booked one from Mumbai to Goa , expecting to get my own bunk. I antied up 600 rupees for a sleeper compartment  (vs. 500 rupees for the seater ). When I stepped on board, I found the sleeper was for two people, but didn’t fit it. Fortunately, my other bunk companion, a travel buddy, decided to try one of the available seats below. Will they book a stranger with you in your bunk if you’re traveling solo? This is India… anything is possible.

Avoid the air conditioned bus

A.C. means freezing in most languages and I felt like I was going to die from hypothermia. The nights can get cool in India, so being next an open window in a regular non-A.C. bus was still actually chilly.

 Advice: Book a “seater” class and non-A.C. bus instead. It’s only a fraction cheaper, but spells a world of difference. You get your “own” seat and it reclines to a decently relaxed and comfortable position. Also, if you book yourself near the window, you can control the level of breeze. The nights can get cold and can be equal to A.C.

How to book tickets: Seats on these buses need to be reserved in advance. You have two choices: 1) book them with a travel agency in India or 2)  book them at Make My Trip .

How to book your bus in advance from abroad

Read  tips for traveling alone on overnight buses, is traveling india by bus safe for female solo travelers.

 India has had a long-standing problem with ‘Eve teasing’ or sexual harassment in India . This crime is directed at the female sex and entails : catcalls, obscene gestures, slyly brushing up against a woman, showing her porn, groping or pushing up against her when there is clearly much space, molestation, etc… These are all considered “crimes”, punishable anywhere from three months to five years in prison!

If confronted in public, onlookers might or might not help you. Normally, it’s an issue of power ; moreso, than sexual thrill.  It’s an attempt to humiliate or insult a women and the perpetrator doesn’t expect there to be any recourse.  This is why you won’t find many Indian women dressed provocatively or out on the streets late at night. As a result of this problem, in metros, buses and train waiting rooms there’s “ Ladies Only ” sections, which are occasionally patrolled by officers.

Read Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

How to deal with sexual harassment on a bus

You might deal with sexual harassment on the bus. In most cases, it may be so subtle you won’t notice it. Personally, in comparison to a Rome bus, where I was vulgarly groped and rubbed up against by a sweaty 50-year-old unshaven Italian or a Bangkok bus , where I had a penis poking out of its pants at me, I’d say India felt tame. I haven’t experienced the worst yet, but having Indian men lightly brush up against me, with their elbows (not even grazing my breast but merely my arm)…  This is sometimes their way of “copping a field” on me. It’s a form of power play and my alpha space doesn’t like being challenged.

Publicly call out the transgressor

Usually calling attention to their act is good thing. I’ve seen an older Indian woman fire off on her perpetrator at the Delhi metro station. Her scolding shouts attracted a large crowd around them and eventually the police came to carry the man away. Older Indian women might give a man a fresh slap. Don’t hold back if you feel the urge. It calls public attention and humiliates them. In the other  cases, I’ve either, whipped around aggressively to stare them directly in the eye , with a hot-tempered look and balled fist … or I’ve elbowed them back real   hard .

Read What I do and my Tips for Indian Culture & Sexual Harassment

Know sexual harassment in india is a crime ..

The offenses can vary and the transgressions can feel questionable or slight to a foreigner as the advances aren’t always overtly sexual. For a conservative place like India however, the transgression is large. If this happens to you, know you’re not the only target and women in India have to deal with this on an ongoing basis. If there’s police nearby you can attempt to get their help or bring public attention to the situation. You may or may not get help, but taking a proactive stance may feel better in the end than feeling a victim.

Dress modestly

With buses, crowds come and go. At one point your bus could be completely empty and then in five minutes you might find it packed full with folks standing like sardines. Be prepared for close physical contact. To avoid additional discomfort or accidentally stirring temptation, dress modestly. I’d say, dress to blend or be like wallpaper. If you’re blond, maybe wrap your sari over your hair to hide it a bit.

Observe the ‘Ladies Only’ sections

India buses and metros usually have a ‘Ladies Only’ section. The metros usually have a separate car for women (and it’s optional if you want to ride in them). It’s occasionally policed. I’ve seen men sneaking in to escape peak-time traffic and crowded cars, but I’ve also seen them booted out by cops on patrol. In the bus, these sections are located at the front section of the bus. Unlike the metro, which is occasionally patrolled,  if the bus gets crowded and it’s the only space left, men will try to nab them.

Do Indian buses make bathroom rest stops?

VIP and sleeper buses may make rest stops, but government buses only stop when the driver has to take a pee break or when you get to a main hub station. The driver usually makes an announcement (in Hindi). If he or anyone gets off the bus or you see snack vendors enter the bus, that is a sign you’ve probably got around 5-8 minutes to hit the john. I wouldn’t stray far from your bus or dawdle. Once that driver is ready to leave, he will leave without you.

Advice: Traveling India by bus, always take your valuables with you. I’m paranoid about being left behind, so I keep an eye on the bus driver. If I see him walking back, I take it as a sign it’s time to get back quickly. I’ve been on buses which left passengers behind only for the passengers to chase after the bus, screaming and banging on it to get attention. This is an option too. If your belongings are in this bus and find yourself in this situation, hope you have on your running shoes!

Where to put luggage on an Indian bus ?

Some buses allow you to store you extra parcels underneath or behind the bus. Of course, this is not the most convenient option for a traveler.

Advice: There’s usually a storage spot is up front next to the driver. Despite where you sit, if you kindly ask the driver if you can put it next to him, he’ll let you.  Depending if the bus is fairly empty, you might be able to plop your pack next to you. But fair warning, buses can get crowded quickly. If this happens, you’ll have to hold your backpack on your lap. Your leg will fall asleep but it’s doable!

Bus Stations in India

All stations have a bathroom, snack shops and a ticket/information booth (or at the least, a desk) with attendants, who can help you. But bus stations in India can feel a little tricky.

•  A large terminal station (a big transfer hub) has many platforms and parking spaces for incoming and outgoing buses. It’ll be busy and hectic, with lots of activity going on at once.    Tip: At first glance, it appears overwhelming.Take a deep breath- there’s a method to the madness. Look for a station master or a help desk to find your next connection.

•  A medium-sized terminal station has a row of stalls in front of its building. Bus drivers have a tendency to occasionally make rest stops at these.

•  The small town stations are the most tricky. Buses don’t always park in a designated stall nor do they always park.

•  The occasional odd configuration of a bus station: these don’t have a visible “station” per se, but passengers wait on a sidewalk and buses drive up to it. Or say it’s a dirt lot or terminal tucked in a garage.  One has to be open to the way India presents itself.   Tip: If it’s a “station” vs a “bus stop”, then there should be a help desk.

How to Find your Bus in India

•  Names of destinations are indicated on a sign on the window of the bus. However, bus names are often written in Hindi or the region language.

•  Often you’ll need the help of a local or a station master to translate the bus names and point you in the right direction. There’s usually a posted timetable, a help desk and station masters to assist you should you need.

•  Most local people are helpful also, even if they don’t speak English well. They can point you in a direction or wave you down if the bus arrives.

•  Indian folk never waste their time boarding a bus. In small towns, the buses don’t always come to a full stop and promptness also ensures getting a seat.

• Bus stops can be challenging to find if you’re in a small village or town, they seldom have “bus stops” or signs, but locals know where they are and generally stand on the side of the road.  Tip:  Generally, it’s best to ask your hotel or a local person.

Here’s more tips for catching a bus abroad

Share your tips about traveling India by bus as female solo traveler?

Trip planning for india and want to know where to start.

Learn the India trip essentials from India scams, dress etiquette, itineraries , accommodations , food insights , how to take the bus, dealing with sexual harassment and indian trains , and staying at ashrams .

Best Travel Insurance for India

American travelers often pay a premium on travel insurance.  World Nomads offers economic solutions for travelers who seek security and peace of mind.  It covers 150 countries.

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• eSim I’m using to stay connected abroad. Activate it before or on your trip!
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The Best & Unique Travel Subreddits for Wanderlust Travelers

Discover the top travel subreddits on Reddit and immerse yourself in a community of passionate travelers, budget tips, stunning photos, and invaluable insights. Get ready to fuel your wanderlust!

Are you a travel enthusiast looking for a vibrant community to connect with and gain valuable insights from experienced travelers? Look no further than Reddit , the front page of the internet, where you can find a plethora of travel-related subreddits catering to various interests and preferences. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best travel subreddits that will inspire your wanderlust, provide practical advice, and connect you with like-minded individuals. So, let’s dive into the world of Reddit travel communities!

The Best Subreddits For Travelers

Exploring the world of travel writing and blogging, check out my other great guides on travel, additional resources for travel subreddit, faq: travel reddit and subreddits, explore the world of travel in r/travel.

As one of the preeminent travel communities on Reddit, with over 7 million subscribers, r/travel serves as an invaluable resource for all things travel-related. Whether you’re seeking destination recommendations, travel tips, or engaging in discussions about your past adventures, these subreddits have it all. With its vast user base and extensive collection of travel information, r/travel is one of the hottest subreddits to start your journey.

Travel on a Budget with r/shoestring

Do you believe that traveling on a tight budget is impossible? Think again! r/shoestring is dedicated to debunking the notion that you need a bulging bank account to explore the world. Here, you’ll find creative ways to keep travel costs down, from budget accommodation options to money-saving tips and tricks shared by fellow travelers.

Share Your Wanderlust in r/wanderlust

If you’re seeking a community of people who share your insatiable love for travel, look no further than r/wanderlust . This subreddit is a hub for travel enthusiasts to engage in discussions, share stories and experiences, and find inspiration for their next adventure. Immerse yourself in the wanderlust-inducing content and connect with fellow travel enthusiasts from around the globe.

Embark on Solo Adventures with r/solotravel

Embarking on a solo journey can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and r/solotravel is the perfect resource for solo travelers. With millions of solo travel stories and experiences shared by its members, this subreddit offers valuable insights, advice, and inspiration for those who prefer to explore the world on their own terms.

Discover Travel Hacks in r/travelhacks

Looking to level up your travel game? Head over to r/travelhacks , where experienced travelers share their best tips and tricks to make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned traveler, this subreddit is an excellent place to ask questions, gather advice, and discover new travel hacks that can save you time, money, and hassle. This should definitely be on your subreddit list.

Experience the Thrill of Backpacking in r/backpacking

For those who find liberation in carrying everything they own on their back, r/backpacking is a must-visit subreddit. With a large and passionate community, this subreddit is dedicated to all things backpacking. Share your stories, seek advice, and connect with fellow adventurers who understand the thrill of exploring the world with just a backpack.

Connect with Nature in r/campingandhiking

If your travel adventures often involve pitching a tent in the great outdoors and conquering challenging trails, then r/campingandhiking is one of the best subreddits for you. This community of passionate campers and hikers offers a wealth of knowledge, captivating stories, breathtaking photos, and valuable recommendations for outdoor exploration.

Embrace Van Life in r/vandwellers

Dreaming of a nomadic lifestyle or looking to save money while traveling? Look no further than r/vandwellers . This subreddit is a treasure trove of tips and tricks for a successful van, car, or truck lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in converting a vehicle into a cozy home on wheels or simply seeking advice on living a more mobile lifestyle, this community has got you covered.

Check out my guide to: Living The Van Life | What You Need to Know

Hit the Road with r/roadtrip

For road trip enthusiasts, r/roadtrip is an invaluable resource. From planning your route to discovering hidden gems along the way, this subreddit is your go-to place for all things related to road trips. Find information, inspiration, and share your own road trip adventures with a community of fellow road trippers.

Embrace Low-Budget Travel in r/vagabond

Looking to immerse yourself in the world of low-budget travel? r/vagabond is the perfect subreddit to explore. This community is dedicated to sharing stories, experiences, and practical tips for those who prefer to wander the world with limited resources. Join this vibrant community and be inspired by the adventures of fellow vagabonds.

Get Inspired by Travel Photography in r/travelphotos

Sometimes, a stunning photograph can transport us to faraway lands and remind us of the beauty of travel. In r/travelphotos , you’ll find a collection of eclectic travel photos from all over the world. Immerse yourself in the visual splendor, share your own travel photography, and let the images inspire your future travel plans.

Seek Adrenaline-Fueled Adventures in r/adventures

For the adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers, r/adventures is the subreddit to get your heart pumping. Discover exciting travel experiences, adrenaline-fueled activities, and stories that will make your palms sweaty and your sense of adventure soar. Join this community and find your next heart-pounding adventure.

Plan Your Study Abroad Journey with r/studyabroad

If you’re considering studying abroad, r/studyabroad is a valuableresource for you. This subreddit offers answers to your questions, advice on choosing the right program, insights into the student experience abroad, and support from fellow students who have embarked on their own educational adventures in foreign lands.

Explore Remote and Unique Places in r/remoteplaces

Looking to explore unique and lesser-known destinations on Earth? r/remoteplaces is the subreddit to satisfy your curiosity. Immerse yourself in captivating stories, breathtaking photos, and firsthand experiences shared by travelers who have ventured off the beaten path. Discover hidden gems and plan your next extraordinary journey.

Marvel at Earth’s Beauty in r/earthporn

For breathtaking landscape photography that showcases the world’s natural beauty, look no further than r/earthporn . Talented photographers from around the globe share their awe-inspiring images, promoting appreciation for the planet we call home. Lose yourself in the stunning visuals and let them inspire your next travel destination.

Discover Fascinating Maps in r/mapporn

Calling all map enthusiasts! In r/mapporn , you’ll find a variety of maps that are not only informative but also eye-opening. From geographical data to historical perspectives, this subreddit offers an intriguing collection of maps that can deepen your understanding of the world and ignite your curiosity for new travel destinations.

Admire the Charm of Villages in r/villageporn

If you’re fascinated by the charm and beauty of villages around the world, r/villageporn is the subreddit you’ll want to explore. Discover high-quality images of villages from various corners of the globe, immersing yourself in the unique cultural experiences they offer. Let these images transport you to idyllic destinations that may soon find a place on your travel bucket list.

Seek International Opportunities in r/iwantout

For those considering or already living abroad, r/iwantout is a supportive community where individuals share their experiences and provide valuable advice. Whether you’re seeking information on the best countries to relocate to or tips on navigating the challenges of expat life, this subreddit can be an excellent resource and a source of inspiration for your own international adventures.

Embrace Long-Term Travel in r/longtermtravel

Are you dreaming of making long-term travel a lifestyle? r/longtermtravel is the subreddit dedicated to helping you turn that dream into reality. Engage with fellow long-term travelers, gain insights into their experiences, and receive practical advice on everything from budgeting to accommodations. Join this community and discover the joys of extended travel.

Connect with Digital Nomads in r/digitalnomad

The digital nomad lifestyle has gained popularity in recent years, allowing individuals to work remotely while traveling the world. If you’re interested in becoming a digital nomad or already living the lifestyle, r/digitalnomad is the subreddit to connect with like-minded individuals. Share your experiences, discuss challenges, and learn valuable tips on working while exploring new destinations.

Embark on Hitchhiking Adventures in r/hitchhiking

For the adventurous souls who find joy in hitchhiking and embracing the unknown, r/hitchhiking is the subreddit to explore. Share your nomadic and unconventional travel experiences, connect with fellow hitchhikers, and gain insights into this alternative way of exploring the world. Join this community and let the road guide your next adventure.

Master Your Flights with r/flights

If you’re a frequent flyer or simply seeking information about flights, r/flights is the subreddit you should check out. With discussions on airlines, frequent flyer miles, reward programs, and more, this community can provide valuable insights and tips to make your air travel experience smoother, more affordable, and more enjoyable.

Travel Light with r/onebag

Traveling light and minimalism go hand in hand, and r/onebag is a subreddit committed to the art of traveling with minimal belongings. Discover discussions about the essential items to pack, efficient packing techniques, and personal stories of travelers who have embraced the one-bag lifestyle. Join this community and streamline your travel experience.

Connect through Couchsurfing in r/couchsurfing

For those who prefer a more immersive and budget-friendly travel experience, r/couchsurfing is a subreddit dedicated to couchsurfing. Here, you can discuss your couchsurfing experiences, share tips for successful stays, and engage with fellow travelers who have chosen this unique way of connecting with locals while exploring new destinations.

Optimize Your Airbnb Experience in r/airbnb

Whether you’re a seasoned Airbnb guest or a host looking to optimize your hosting experience, r/airbnb is the subreddit for you. Join this community to discuss best practices, share your experiences, and gain valuable insights into making the most of the Airbnb platform for your accommodation needs.

Find Travel Companions in r/travelpartners

Traveling with a companion can enhance the experience and create lifelong memories. If you’re seeking travel companions or want to connect with fellow travelers, r/travelpartners is the subreddit to explore. Share your travel plans, find like-minded individuals, and embark on new adventures together.

Sail the Seas with r/cruise

Cruise enthusiasts, rejoice! In r/cruise , you’ll find a vibrant community that shares stories, news, tips, and more about their cruise experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, this subreddit is a valuable resource to enhance your cruise adventures.

Maximize Travel Rewards in r/awardtravel

If you’re interested in effectively utilizing airline miles and hotel points to enhance your travel experiences, r/awardtravel is a subreddit worth exploring. Gain insights into maximizing your rewards, learn about loyalty programs, and discover tips and tricks for making the most of your points and miles.

Unlock Incredible Travel Experiences with r/churning

If you’re looking to maximize your travel rewards and take your wanderlust to new heights, r/churning is the ultimate subreddit for you. Join this community of savvy travelers who have mastered the art of earning and redeeming credit card rewards, airline miles, and hotel points. Discover the latest strategies, insider tips, and success stories that will help you unlock incredible travel experiences without breaking the bank.

Turn Your Travel Dreams into Reality with r/awardtravel

Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality using your hard-earned loyalty points and miles? Look no further than r/awardtravel . This subreddit is a treasure trove of knowledge on how to make the most of your travel rewards. From booking luxurious flights and hotel stays to navigating loyalty programs and maximizing the value of your points, this community is dedicated to helping you plan unforgettable journeys using your well-deserved awards.

For travel writers and bloggers, there are several subreddits dedicated to sharing your content and engaging with fellow writers. Visit subreddits such as r/curiousplaces , r/takeusonajourney , r/travelblog , and r/travelblogs to connect with other travel enthusiasts, share your stories, and find inspiration for your next piece.

Discover Curious Places in r/curiousplaces

Embark on a journey to discover the world’s most intriguing and lesser-known destinations with r/curiousplaces . This subreddit is a treasure trove of captivating stories, stunning photographs, and firsthand experiences shared by adventurous souls who have explored off-the-beaten-path locations. Immerse yourself in the enchanting narratives and unique perspectives, and let your curiosity guide you to your next extraordinary travel destination.

Take Redditors on a Journey in r/takeusonajourney

Share your travel tales and take fellow Redditors on a virtual adventure with r/takeusonajourney . This subreddit is the perfect platform to showcase your storytelling skills and transport readers to the places you’ve explored. Whether you’re recounting an epic road trip, an awe-inspiring hike, or an immersive cultural experience, the community here eagerly awaits to be whisked away on your captivating journeys.

Connect with Travel Bloggers in r/travelblog

Join the vibrant community of travel bloggers and writers at r/travelblog . This subreddit offers a space to share your travel blog posts, seek feedback, and engage with fellow creators. Whether you’re a seasoned travel blogger or just starting out, this supportive community is a valuable resource for networking, collaboration, and finding inspiration for your next travel-related piece.

Explore Diverse Travel Blogs in r/travelblogs

Dive into the world of travel blogs with r/travelblogs . This subreddit provides a platform to discover and promote travel blogs from around the globe. Share your own blog posts, connect with other travel bloggers, and find a wealth of diverse perspectives and unique travel experiences. Expand your audience, gain valuable insights, and connect with fellow writers who share your passion for exploration and storytelling.

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In addition to these travel subreddits, don’t forget to explore country-specific and city-specific subreddits. By searching for the subreddit of the country or city you’re visiting, such as r/Turkey or r/istanbul, you can access valuable advice and tips from locals who know the area best. Just remember to be respectful, do your own research, and ask thoughtful questions to maintain the integrity and positive vibe of these subreddits.

In conclusion, Reddit offers a wealth of travel-related subreddits where you can connect with fellow travelers, gather valuable insights, and find inspiration for your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking budget travel tips, destination recommendations, or engaging discussions, these subreddits are sure to satisfy your wanderlust. So, dive into the world of Reddit travel communities and let the collective wisdom of passionate travelers guide your next journey.

Q: What is travel Reddit? A: Travel Reddit refers to the collection of travel-related communities, known as subreddits, on the Reddit platform. It is a vibrant network of users who share their travel experiences, seek advice, and connect with fellow travelers.

Q: What are good Reddit communities for travel? A: Some popular ones include r/travel, r/solotravel, r/backpacking, r/roadtrip, and r/travelhacks. These subreddits offer a wealth of information, tips, destination recommendations, and engaging discussions.

Q: How do I find Reddit subreddits related to travel? A: To find Reddit subreddits related to travel, you can use the search bar on Reddit and enter keywords such as “travel,” “adventure,” “backpacking,” or specific destinations. Additionally, you can visit the subreddit directory at reddit.com/r/TravelDirectory to explore a curated list of travel subreddits.

Q: Is Reddit made up of communities called subreddits? A: Each subreddit focuses on a specific topic or interest, allowing users to engage in discussions, share content, ask questions, and connect with like-minded individuals. Travel-related subreddits are a significant part of the diverse Reddit community.

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Top 20+ Travel Influencers in India 2024: Guiding Your Wanderlust

In the digital era, where the world is at our fingertips, travel enthusiasts and adventure seekers are increasingly turning to social media platforms to quench their wanderlust. Among the virtual spaces that have witnessed a significant surge in popularity are those occupied by travel influencers. These modern-day storytellers are reshaping the way we explore the world, offering a unique blend of inspiration, information, and personal experiences that ignite our curiosity and awaken our desires to embark on new journeys.

Travel influencers are individuals who have mastered the art of sharing their expeditions, discoveries, and encounters with their online audiences. Their platforms – be it Instagram, YouTube, blogs, or podcasts – serve as portals to far-flung destinations, hidden gems, cultural treasures, and exciting adventures. By chronicling their escapades and sharing vivid imagery, informative insights, and heartfelt narratives, these influencers not only satisfy our wanderlust but also guide us through uncharted territories and unfamiliar cultures.

As we delve into the world of travel influencers in India, we’ll uncover the stories and personalities that have captivated millions, offering a glimpse into their unique perspectives, preferences, and profound connections with the places they visit. From off-the-beaten-path explorers to luxury travel connoisseurs, each influencer we encounter adds a new layer to the rich tapestry of our collective travel dreams. Join us as we delve into the lives and journeys of India’s top travel influencers, discovering how their virtual presence continues to reshape the way we perceive and experience travel in the modern age.

Must Read: No 1 Moto Vlogger in the World & the Top Moto Vloggers in India 2023

Top Travel Influencers in India 2024

#1. Shivya Nath (@shivya):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shivya Nath (@shivya)

A pioneer of solo female travel, Shivya’s sustainable and offbeat explorations inspire responsible travel. Shivya Nath stands as a prominent figure in the realm of travel influencers in India, captivating the imaginations of wanderlust enthusiasts with her inspiring journeys and unique perspective. Renowned for her distinctive approach to travel, she has carved a niche by advocating sustainable and mindful exploration. Through her compelling narratives and mesmerizing photographs, Shivya invites her audience to embark on immersive cultural experiences, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and environmentally conscious escapades. Her evocative storytelling not only showcases the picturesque landscapes of India but also underscores the importance of responsible travel, igniting a sense of wanderlust while encouraging a deeper connection with the places she visits. With a vibrant online presence, Shivya Nath continues to redefine travel influence, motivating a generation to explore with purpose and embrace the beauty of the world around them.

#2. Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Travel & Love – Savi & Vid (@bruisedpassports)

#3. Neelima Vallangi (@neelimav):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Neelima Vallangi (@neelimav)

#4. Prasad NP (@desitraveler):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Prasad Np (@desitraveler)

Must Read: 14 Ways to Become a Successful Best Travel Blogger in 2023

#5. Ankita Sinha (@ankionthemove):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ankita Sinha (@ankionthemove)

#6. Shraddha Gupta (@streettrotter):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shraddha Gupta (@streettrotter)

#7. Kritika Goel (@kritika_goel):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kritika Goel (@kritika_goel)

#8. Vishu Tiwari (@bacheloroftravel):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bachelor of Travel | Melbourne (@bacheloroftravel)

#9. Devesh Joshi (@luke.crump):

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Luke Crump (@luke.crump)

#10. Rukshar Mulla (@nomadbears):

Rukshar’s photography and storytelling transport you to destinations through her creative lens.

#11. Lakshmi Sharath (@lakshmisharath): A storyteller and travel writer who shares her journey through vibrant narratives.

#12. Siddhartha Joshi (@siddharthajoshi): Known for his photography and travel stories that capture the essence of different cultures.

#13. Anuradha Goyal (@anuradhagoyal): An avid traveler and author who explores destinations with a cultural perspective.

#14. Prerna Sinha (@thirstytravels): A travel enthusiast who brings out the essence of each location through stunning photography.

#15.  Swati and Sam (@thetalesofatraveler): This couple shares their travel adventures and experiences through captivating stories.

#16. Rohan and Swati (@travelseewrite): Their blog features a mix of travel experiences, cultural insights, and photography.

#17. Shalu Sharma (@shalusharma): An expert on travel in India, Shalu’s blog provides valuable insights into the country’s diverse destinations.

#18. Radhika Nomllers (@radhikanomllers): With a focus on budget travel, Radhika explores both well-known and offbeat destinations.

#19. Himadri Garg (@theblackboardtraveler): Through hand-drawn maps, Himadri showcases her travel experiences in a distinctive way.

#20. Aparna and Zarina (@thetalesofatravellingsisters): These sisters share their travel stories, tips, and experiences as they explore the world.

#21. Ghumakkad Narain (@ghumakkad.narain): With a passion for travel and photography, Narain brings destinations to life through his lens.

#22. Rohan Patil (@travelwithrohan): Rohan’s Instagram is a visual diary of his travel experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

#23. Anki Sood (@monkey.inc): Anki’s blog and Instagram are filled with vibrant travel stories and stunning visuals.

#24. TravellersofIndia by (@travelllers_of_india): Travellersofindia is an exceptional travel blog, thoughtfully curated and managed by Vikrant. With an insatiable passion for exploration, Vikrant embarks on journeys to the most offbeat and unexplored destinations, meticulously documenting his experiences to share with his dedicated followers. Through vivid narratives, captivating photographs, and insightful insights, Vikrant’s blog resonates with fellow wanderers and seekers of unique travel experiences.

In the ever-evolving realm of travel, influencers have emerged as the guiding stars that navigate us through uncharted territories, bridging the gap between the known and the unknown. As we bid adieu to this exploration of India’s top travel influencers, one thing becomes abundantly clear – their impact is immeasurable. They have transcended digital platforms to become a source of inspiration, a repository of knowledge, and a virtual passport to the world’s wonders.

Through their eyes, lenses, and words, we have traversed mountains, immersed ourselves in diverse cultures, and witnessed breathtaking vistas. But beyond the picturesque landscapes, these influencers have woven a tapestry of connections, curiosity, and camaraderie, reminding us that the essence of travel lies not just in the places we visit, but in the stories we collect along the way.

So, as we continue to scroll through their feeds and read their blogs, let us acknowledge the invaluable role these influencers play in shaping our travel dreams and aspirations. With each post, they beckon us to explore, discover, and embrace the beauty of our world – an invitation we gladly accept, thanks to their unwavering commitment to sharing the magic of travel.

Must Read: Top 20 Best Adventure Bikes in India 2023 Motivating You To Plan Your Next Adventure

Q: What is a travel influencer? A: A travel influencer is an individual who shares their travel experiences, insights, and recommendations on social media platforms, blogs, or other digital channels to inspire and guide their audience in exploring new destinations.

Q: How do travel influencers make money? A: Travel influencers often make money through collaborations with brands, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and partnerships. They may also monetize their blogs, YouTube channels, and social media platforms.

Q: How can I become a travel influencer in India? A: To become a travel influencer, start by creating engaging and unique content showcasing your travel experiences. Focus on a niche, engage with your audience, and collaborate with brands to grow your presence and influence.

Q: Are travel influencers credible sources of information? A: Many travel influencers provide credible and valuable insights based on their experiences. However, it’s important to cross-reference information and rely on multiple sources before making travel decisions.

Q: Do travel influencers only cater to luxury travel? A: No, travel influencers cover a wide spectrum of travel styles, including budget, solo, adventure, luxury, and cultural exploration. You can find influencers who resonate with your preferred travel style.

Q: Can travel influencers influence travel trends? A: Yes, travel influencers have the power to shape travel trends by introducing offbeat destinations, promoting sustainable practices, and inspiring travelers to explore new places.

Q: How can I collaborate with travel influencers for my brand? A: Brands can collaborate with travel influencers by reaching out through email or social media, proposing partnerships, and offering relevant incentives or opportunities for content creation.

Q: Are travel influencers only for millennials? A: No, travel influencers cater to audiences of all ages. Their content appeals to a diverse range of people with varying travel interests and preferences.

Q: How do travel influencers impact tourism? A: Travel influencers can significantly impact tourism by highlighting lesser-known destinations, boosting local economies, and promoting responsible travel practices that preserve cultural and natural heritage.

Q: Can travel influencers change perceptions about a destination? A: Yes, travel influencers can influence public perceptions about a destination by showcasing its unique aspects, culture, and attractions, encouraging more travelers to explore it.

Please note that the answers provided are general and may vary based on individual influencer practices and preferences.

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"Travellers of India is a hub bringing globetrotters around the world together so as to reveal interesting and entertaining things about a destination, its people, and their culture. We aim to inspire Travellers around the world to delve deep into the world around them, bringing the world closer to everyone, and in doing so, making a difference in the travel genre. At Travellers of India, we focus on helping Travellers get an understanding about various destinations, things to do, travel plans, and so on. In doing so, we believe to make it simpler for everyone, and in turn, helping them experience a great and memorable journey! Here I found the best Quote about travelling “There are a Lot of stories out there waiting for you to live them” Happy Travelling".

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• > 17 Things The World Can Learn From India, According To Desis On Reddit

Sep 25, 2021 at 04:39 PM

17 Things The World Can Learn From India, According To Desis On Reddit

India is a land of diversity. With our unique traditions and culture, we can offer a lot to the world.

People on Reddit are talking about “What is something the rest of the world can learn from India?” and Indians have a lot to say. 

1. “Generic drugs for most of the human population, even Robin Hooding some patents.”

Answer Source –  Reddit

2. “Using water to wash our ass. Honestly!”

3. “Vegetarian food. In the west when someone hears about vegetarian food, they mostly think about salads or some other popular food like falafel and hummus. Indians have come up with so many varieties suiting every palate.”

Answer Source – Reddit

4. “Do breathing exercises (Pranayam) in a Delhi park, early autumn/ winter morning when the AQI stands well past twice x hazardous.”

5. “Space exploration with a limited budget.”

7. ” Indians can critique an Ingmar Bergman movie, state their favourite series is Friends, Office, or Schitt creek while also enjoy watching Anupama with their parents. We can enjoy chicken tikka, dosa or a ravioli equally. Our ability to live in different worlds.” 

8. How to move 7-8 adults in a small passenger vehicle. Energy efficiency!

9. “Indian culture to my understanding is so different and vast that that is your strong suit. How many different “Indian people” are there, how many languages and religions are there.”

10. “Smiling faces. Even though we have a lot of problems, there are more smiling faces in India. Man who opens a restaurant door, an auto driver, a woman who sells flowers in the street, etc etc.”

11. “I would say the hardworking nature of many Indians is unparalleled. Because so many people want a good life, and so few resources are available, everyone has to work hard.”

12. “Diversity. we are so different yet we are all united.”

13.”Indians have a way of living alongside wildlife, despite their large population. As a result, there’s still so much biodiversity in India, many large animals are still not extinct. The same can’t be said of most of the developed world.”

14. “Multiculturalism. India has been the OG multicultural land for a long time.”

15. “Patience. We have a lot of patience before we complain. We are so used to any Sarkari work done taking a long time, standing in queues forever, waiting in traffic, making up with an intolerable family, etc. People in developed countries have a much lower threshold before they complain, break up, etc.”

16. “Caring for their goddamn children.”

17. “Multiplicity of languages and the capability to instantly switch the language according to the context.”

What do you think the world can learn from India?

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Explained: How New Schengen Visa Rules Ease Europe Travel For Indians

The schengen area comprises 25 countries out of the 27 eu countries except the republic of ireland and cyprus..

A Schengen visa permits a brief stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe.

The European Union (EU) recently introduced a revamped visa system tailored specifically for Indian nationals. This new system offers substantial advantages to Indian citizens, allowing them access to long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, which can significantly streamline travel plans and enhance the overall experience for those venturing into the Schengen area.

What Is Schengen Visa

The Schengen area comprises 25 countries out of the 27 EU countries except the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus. It includes countries such as Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. This extensive area not only offers diverse cultural experiences but also facilitates seamless travel across borders for visa holders.

A Schengen visa permits a brief stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe. This visa may be issued as either a single-entry, enabling one entry into the Schengen area, or a multiple-entry, allowing multiple visits for the duration of its validity.

How The New Rules Affect Indians

Under the new regulations, Indian travellers can now obtain a two-year Schengen visa, a marked improvement from the shorter validity periods previously available. To qualify for this extended two-year visa, applicants must have acquired and appropriately utilised two Schengen visas within the preceding three years. Upon successful utilisation of the two-year visa, travellers can typically expect to be eligible for a five-year Schengen visa, provided their passport maintains sufficient validity.

The new rules essentially say that Indian travellers can move freely within the Schengen member countries for short stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without the need for additional permits or authorisations. Under this system, eligible travellers with a proven track record of travel will have simplified access to visas with extended validity, provided their passport's validity permits.

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The 'Cascade' system, as it's termed, is designed to reward frequent travellers with progressively longer visa durations. It begins with a two-year visa, and upon successful use, travellers can potentially qualify for a five-year visa. While these visas do not restrict the purpose of travel, they do not allow the right to work within the Schengen area.

The decision to tweak the rules comes in the broader context of improving relations between the EU and India

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