India travel guide

Find out what to see and do when travelling or backpacking around India.

India highlights

	Destination	Make a reservation
	Delhi The capital of India and an ideal starting point for any trip. Explore the labyrinthine of back streets, discover the mosques, monuments and forts and experience the lively bazaars selling spices and silks in a range of vivid and bright colours.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Agra Home to one of the 7 Wonders of the World, the famous Taj Mahal. Visit at sunrise to see the sun glisten off of the pristine marble. The Taj Mahal is an awe inspiring sanctuary away from the busy streets of Agra. Taking over 20 years and 20,000 workers to complete, this is a must see of any visit to India!	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Varanasi Varanasi is one of the oldies cities in the world and the holiest Indian city to Hindus. Take a dawn boat ride along the shores of the river Ganges, see Hindu's flocking here to bathe away their sins, celebrate marriage or cremate their loved ones in moving ceremonies that have not changed for hundreds of years.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Jaipur Jaipur is the famous 'Pink City' and the capital of Rajasthan. Here you will enjoy some unique sights such as the Palace of the Winds and an unusual observatory. Why not take an elephant ride up to the Amber Fort, perched on a hill, climb to the top tower and see the fort magnificently reflect off the Lake almost like a mirror.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Jaisalmer Nick-named �The Golden City', this was once a sleepy desert city, Jaisalmer has transformed itself into a major tourist destination of India. Situated amid the picturesque Thar Desert, the Jaisalmer city commands premiere position among the tourist attractions scattered all over the desert area of Rajasthan.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Udaipur Udaipur, one of the most romantic places in the whole of India. Built onto the edge of Lake Pichola with the Aravalli hills in the distance. Take time to sit back, relax and enjoy the sun setting over the lake from a roof top restaurant. The James Bond film 'Octopussy' was also filmed here.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Pushkar The small town, surrounding Pushkar Lake, with narrow winding streets has one of the few Brahma Temples in the World. Also home to the famous Pushkar Fair in November.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Goa The main beach destination of India. Golden sands, palm-tree strewn beaches and more laid-back than the rest of India. Savour the local cuisine and top up your tan as this is an ideal place to end any Indian adventure.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Mumbai The home of Bollywood, full of colour, this is Indian most cosmopolitan city. Eat at some of the best restaurants, shop until you drop and explore the contrast between modern and historic character in India's busiest city.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Alleppey Not a name you might recognise but this is the centre of the backwaters, referred to as the �Venice of the East'. A town with picturesque canals, a maze of backwaters and lagoons. Explore these from a relaxing and peaceful houseboat while the crew guide you through the waters and prepare all your meals.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Hampi The World heritage site of Hampi is an incredible otherworldly part of India. Off the main tourist route but it is definitely worth the drive from Goa. The large boulders strewn haphazardly along the river and amongst the ancient ruins and banana plantations create a quite magical landscape.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Darjeeling Sprawling across a steep mountain ridge and home to the best tea in the world (some say). The hill station of Darjeeling offers views of the Himalayas, Clean air, an unhurried pace to life and with the worlds third highest mountain in the background, it is of no surprise that this used to be the summer capital of British India.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours

Main travellers routes

• Delhi tends to be the starting point for travelers; it is India's main hub airport. From here it is relatively simple to travel the 'Golden Triangle' area which takes in Delhi, Jaipur and Agra.
• A lot of people will carry on from Agra to Varanasi; this can be done by taking an overnight train. They can fill up quickly so book early.
• India is the 7th largest country in the World so travelling around can take time. Always research all the options available before embarking on a journey.
• Trains are a great way to travel around India, however routes are limited and schedules are not always kept. For long distances take a plane, often surprisingly cheap. For shorter distances there are buses and taxis. Buses are also cheap, where as taxis can be expensive, but are direct and usually quicker. Always agree on a price first.

Capital and main cities

• Delhi is the capital
• Major cities are Mumbai and Bangalore

Languages

• 18 languages are spoken in India, with Hindi being the main one spoken and English coming in second. Some other popular languages are Bengali, Gujarati, Malayalam and Urdu.

Currency

• Indian Rupees
• Currency converter

Visas (always check with your embassy)

• British citizens require a visa for trip to India.
• Visa needs to be obtained before arrival and usual are valid for 6 months
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Foreign Office Advice

• India foreign office advice

Flights and accommodation

• Flight prices to India
• Hotel and hostel prices

Tours and day trips in India

• India Travel Plan - Design your own India Trip
• Responsible Travel in India - Trips and accommodation from the main tourist routes to off-the-beaten track places.

This guide to travelling in India was contributed by India Travel Plan

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