India tours & vacations
A feast for the senses
From morning calls of local chai wallahs to the whir of rattling rickshaws, the feel of centuries old stone or a soft and supple silk, the sing of spice from your morning thali and the hues of a new age-old city – India is an immersive experience like no other.
Whether the diversity of Delhi, the majesty of the Taj Mahal and the relics of Rajasthan’s Maharaj past have you venturing north to the Golden Triangle, or if the allure of Southern India’s simple life sees you journeying south – you’re sure to be wholeheartedly charmed by the cultural masterpiece that is India. Don’t believe us? Experience it for yourself.
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India's Golden Triangle
India's Golden Triangle
India's Golden Triangle
India's Golden Triangle
India: Women's Expedition
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India at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Delhi (population, 33.8 million)
POPULATION
1.4 billion
CURRENCY
Indian Rupees (INR)
LANGUAGE
Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Bengali, Kashmiri, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, English
TIME ZONE
(GMT+05:30) Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi
CALLING CODE
+91
ELECTRICITY
Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)
Learn more about India
Best time to visit
Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March.
During the coolest months (December to January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night.
The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards, and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.
Learn more about the best time to visit India
What is the weather like in India?
The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December to February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March to May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.
History and culture
Humans have inhabited India for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilizations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence from European nations, mainly the British, in 1947.
India is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, with a culture steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. Religion plays a massive role in everyday life, with 80% of the population practicing Hinduism while the remaining 20% is divided into Muslim (India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population), Christian, Sikhism and Buddhist populations.
Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervour of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are Holi (Festival of Colour), Diwali (Festival of Lights), Gujarat Kite Festival and the Mumbai Ganesh Festival.
Geography and environment
India shares land borders with Bangladesh, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar and Bhutan, and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean.
As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains: the Himalayas in the north, the deserts and plains in the west, the fertile waterways in the south and the hills and forests in the east.
Eating and drinking
Things to try in India
Vindaloo
A dish that can be made for both meat eaters and vegetarians, vindaloo is one of the most favorited foods in India. Vindaloo is a slow-cooked meal of meat or vegetables flavored with an array of spices that give it a warm orange color and delicious taste. Typically, only medium-hot spices are used, though some can be made spicier.
Tandoori chicken
Tandoori chicken is a popular meat-eaters dish that includes a well-spiced dish of chicken, usually served on the bones, that has been marinated in yogurt. Tandoor is the name of the oven used to cook the dish
Thali
Thali is the name for a meal that consists of dishes served on single platters. These plates are all served together and will include vegetables, lentils, rice and bread with many different flavors throughout to sample from.
Kachori
Kachori is a popular street food snack in India. This deep-fried stuffed pastry is vegetarian and often spicy and cooked until crispy.
Jalebi
For anyone with a sweet tooth, Jalebi will knock your socks off. This sweet, spiraled treat is typically chewy on the outside with a warm and melting inside. Made by frying long ribbons of batter and then soaking in sugar, saffron and cardamon syrup, this treat is as delicious as it looks.
Chai
You can’t talk about Indian cuisine without mentioning chai. Chai is the Indian word for tea and it is made differently pretty well everywhere you go. Typically, chai is a blend of black tea with additions like cloves, cinnamon and cardamom, however, it can be made with more of a kick if there’s ingredients black pepper or fennel included.
Top places to visit in India
1. Agra
Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular and soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed!
2. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. You'll undoubtedly fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cozy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell.
3. Ranthambhore National Park
Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days, it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquillity of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India).
4. Kerala Backwaters
Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis deep within India's colorful chaos. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf.
5. Varanasi
Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell.
6. Pushkar
This holy desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town.
7. Mumbai
Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewelry.
8. Dharamsala
The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple.
9. Rishikesh
Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples.
10. Goa
Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavors!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook.
11. Jaipur
The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city its 'Pink City' nickname. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewelry, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal.
12. Mysore
Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family.
13. Delhi
Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side.
14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan
Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambience before sleeping in a comfy permanent tent under the stars. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure.
Money matters
The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR).
Credit cards are accepted in an increasing number of cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels in India, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. That said, cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.
ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Mastercard are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.
India travel FAQs
Travelers from most nationalities need a visa to enter India. For more information, please visit the Government of India’s website or the Essential Trip Information.
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.
You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our visa and entry requirements page.
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
While traveling through India, on a tour or otherwise, it’s expected one would tip porters, drivers, restaurant staff and other service workers, given the low wages they earn.
What you decide to pack and wear in India will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The weather across India usually follows the monsoon cycle, so it’s quite easy to plan what to pack when it comes to rain, but temperatures will vary quite a bit from the north to the south.
India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now – let your inner child rejoice!
Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India trip.
If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your trip begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travelers. You’ll need a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable, given the competition
Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitiser, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.
India can be overwhelming sometimes, but it's generally a safe country for travelers and many people enjoy their time without any problems.
India can be overwhelming sometimes but most travellers enjoy their time in India without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveler should keep in mind when traveling through India to minimize their chances of running into any trouble.
The majority of Indian society is still conservative, and while most travelers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in more remote towns and villages, which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples (and couples of all other sexual orientations), as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.
If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group trip, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveler
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to India directly support our foundation partners, Positive Change for Marine Life and Holy City Rickshaw Co. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Positive Change for Marine Life
Positive Change for Marine Life nurtures ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives. Donations help them expand and implement vital programs in India that empower local communities, support sustainable fishing practices, restore marine habitats and drive policy change.
Holy City Rickshaw Co.
Holy City Rickshaw Co. are empowering women from marginalized communities by providing training and job opportunities driving e-rickshaws in Varanasi, India. Donations help them train and employ a team of women to take city tours using environmentally friendly rickshaws.
We are committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations.
We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.