India travel guide for first-time visitors

India suits travellers who want history, food and colour on a grand scale, and a first trip works best when it focuses on one or two regions. Most visitors apply online for an e-Visa, fly into Delhi, and spend 8 to 15 nights on the Golden Triangle, Rajasthan or Kerala. Go between October and March for the most comfortable touring weather.

Who India suits

India is rewarding for curious travellers who are comfortable with crowds, noise and a fast pace in the cities, balanced by calm in places such as the Kerala backwaters. It is excellent for culture, architecture, food, wellness and festivals. If you prefer quiet, highly organised travel, a private guide and driver, as in our packages, makes a big difference.

Entry and visa overview

Rules depend on your nationality. As of November 2026, citizens of many countries can apply for an e-Tourist visa on the official Indian Visa Online portal, choosing a 30-day, 1-year or 5-year option. Apply at least four days before arrival; the 30-day visa is counted from first arrival. UK government advice says your passport needs at least six months' validity on arrival and two blank pages, and foreign nationals should complete the online e-arrival card before landing. Fees are set out in our India trip cost guide.

Arriving, money and essentials

Getting around

Distances are large, so a mix of transport works best. Private cars with drivers handle routes such as Delhi–Agra–Jaipur; domestic flights connect regions, for example Delhi to Kochi; and trains offer an authentic and often efficient option between major cities. UK advice warns of a high road accident rate and recommends avoiding night driving, which is why our itineraries schedule long drives in daylight.

Suggested routes by trip length

Our Golden Triangle & Ranthambore and Kerala Backwaters & Beaches packages are ready-made starting points. Timing matters by region, so check our best time to visit India guide before you choose.

Etiquette and culture

• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially at temples, mosques and in rural areas; women may want a scarf for covering the head at some sites.
• Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques, gurdwaras and many homes. At the Golden Temple, everyone covers their head.
• Use your right hand for eating and passing items.
• Some temples do not admit non-Hindus to inner areas; follow signs and your guide's advice.
• Ask before photographing people, and respect bans on photography at cremation ghats in Varanasi.

Health and safety

Check vaccine advice well before travel. The UK's FCDO health page for India lists risks including malaria and dengue, warns of severe winter air pollution in northern cities, and notes altitude sickness in mountain areas. Drink bottled or filtered water and favour freshly cooked food. Scams and touts target visitors at tourist sites, and women travellers can face harassment, so read the official safety advice and use licensed guides. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential.

Food and drink

Food is one of the great pleasures of an Indian trip, and it changes completely from region to region. The north is known for breads such as naan and paratha, slow-cooked curries and the street snacks of Old Delhi around Chandni Chowk. Rajasthan has its own desert cuisine, while Kerala cooks with coconut, curry leaves and fresh seafood. Vegetarian food is widely available and often excellent.

Spice levels in hotels are usually moderated for visitors; ask for less or more heat as you prefer. Stick to bottled or filtered water, avoid ice of uncertain origin, and choose busy stalls where food is cooked in front of you. Alcohol rules vary by state, and some states restrict its sale, so ask your guide.

Sacred sites worth planning around

Places of worship are central to Indian life and many are open to respectful visitors. The Jama Masjid in Delhi, the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the Meenakshi Amman Temple each have their own visiting hours and dress expectations, and some close to visitors during prayers. Your guide will time visits accordingly.

Practical tips

• Remember the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays; plan your Agra days around it.
• Arrive at major monuments at opening time for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
• Carry small rupee notes for tips, rickshaws and markets.
• Allow an easy first day in Delhi to recover from the flight.
• Agree taxi and rickshaw fares in advance, or use app-based services in cities.
• Keep digital and paper copies of your e-Visa approval.

Frequently asked questions

Start planning

See more ideas on the India destination page, then plan your own India route with a specialist who will match it to your dates and interests.

Sources

1. Government of India — e-Visa information (Indian Visa Online)
2. GOV.UK — India travel advice: entry requirements
3. GOV.UK — India travel advice: health
4. GOV.UK — India travel advice: safety and security
5. WorldStandards — Power plugs and sockets in India