India
A kaleidoscope of colours, spirituality and unforgettable landscapes.
India is one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. Its charm captivates all who visit, drawing people in with that indescribable something. A country of contrasts, it offers bustling cities, laidback beaches, calming waterways, amazing wildlife, and the peace of Himalayan landscapes. India is chaotic and serene, overwhelming and welcoming, spiritual and vibrant – diverse, contradictory, and unforgettable.
This vast land has something for everyone. You’ll find ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and cutting-edge skyscrapers. Tea plantations, mountain ranges, and picturesque hilltop villages add to India’s contrast and charm. Rajasthan, one of the most iconic states, is a perfect introduction to India. The Land of Kings enchants with its forts and palaces, the colourful cities of Jodhpur and Jaipur, and spiritual centres like Varanasi, Rishikesh and Amritsar. For wildlife, head to Ranthambore in search of tigers, stay in luxury desert camps in the Thar Desert, or explore the Aravalli Hills, home to leopards.
In contrast, Southern India offers a more relaxed pace. Kerala, known as God’s Own Country, is rich in coconut groves, backwaters, and golden beaches. Spend time in colonial Fort Cochin, soaking up the architecture and culture, and watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action. The Keralan backwaters are a peaceful counterbalance to the north – float by houseboat through sleepy villages and observe daily life unfold at a gentle rhythm.
For remote beauty, the Himalayas are unmatched. In Ladakh and Kashmir, discover dramatic scenery, tranquil monasteries, and some of the world’s best hiking. This is a deeply spiritual region, important in both Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
India’s holy cities – Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Amritsar – offer insight into the rituals of everyday life. Watch ceremonies along the Ganges or visit magnificent temples. Then contrast it all with modern cities like Delhi, bustling and full of life.
Visit India for the people, the culture, the wildlife, and the food – and leave marked forever by the colours, scents, and spirit of this unforgettable country.
- Currency
- Time Zone
- Language
- CAPITAL CITY
- NATIONAL DISH
- PEAK TIME
Key Experiences
- Wildlife
Spot tigers in Ranthambore, drift through Kerala’s backwaters, or trek through the serene Himalayas. India’s natural wonders are as varied as they are unforgettable.
- Culture
From the royal palaces of Rajasthan and sacred ceremonies along the Ganges to colonial cities and Himalayan monasteries, India offers a rich blend of history, spirituality, and vibrant daily life.
- Food & Wine
India’s food is as diverse as its landscapes, from fragrant curries and street food delights in Delhi to fresh seafood in Kerala and rich Mughlai dishes in the north.
Key Locations
When to Visit India
India is a year-round destination, but the best regions to visit vary due to its diverse climate zones, with the dry winter months generally preferred for most travel.
BEST WEATHER IN India
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- Good
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Sample Itineraries
Our India
The Humboldt team’s India highlights
The taste that stayed with me…
“All of India feels like a feast for the senses… there’s so much flavour, colour and spice that you almost wish you could pack it up and take it home. That’s why I’d recommend joining a cooking class. Learning how to grind masalas, roll chapatis and balance flavours with a local family in Jaipur gave me skills (and recipes) that I still use long after the trip.”
FOUNDER, TRAVEL DESIGNER
FAQs
India is vast and incredibly diverse, so how long you stay depends on how much you want to see. A well-paced introduction to northern India, including Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur (the Golden Triangle) can be done in about 10 days. For a broader or more immersive journey, we recommend 2 to 3 weeks, allowing time to explore other regions such as Rajasthan, Kerala, Varanasi or the Himalayas. Travel within India can be time-consuming, so it’s important not to rush.
India is most often enjoyed as a stand-alone destination, thanks to its extraordinary depth of culture, history, cuisine and landscapes. However, it pairs nicely with Sri Lanka, especially for those looking to add time on the beach or a different cultural experience. But in most cases, we recommend devoting your full trip to India itself, given how much it has to offer.
Yes, most travellers require a visa to enter India. For many nationalities, including the UK, US, EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, an e-visa is available online, allowing for tourist stays of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on the visa type. It’s best to apply several weeks before departure via the official Indian government e-visa website. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates and have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Visa policies can change, so we strongly recommend checking with your nearest Indian consulate or embassy for the latest entry requirements before you travel.
There are no mandatory vaccinations for most travellers to India, but several are recommended. These include hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and MMR. Depending on your travel plans, additional vaccines such as hepatitis B, rabies and Japanese encephalitis may also be advised, especially for extended stays or rural travel. Malaria prophylaxis may be necessary in some regions, particularly in the warmer months or if visiting forested or lowland areas. Visit a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure for personalised guidance.
India is generally safe for tourists. The most-visited areas, including Rajasthan, the Golden Triangle, Kerala and Mumbai are well set up for international visitors. However, the cultural differences and fast pace of the country can be overwhelming at first. We recommend travelling with private transport and guides for a smoother experience. As with any destination, it’s important to remain alert, respect local customs and avoid travelling alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
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