- CapitalNew Delhi
- CurrencyIndian rupee (INR)
- LanguageHindi, English and many regional languages
- Best timeOctober to March
- Plug typesC, D, M
India is less a country than a collection of worlds. The Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is the classic first trip, Rajasthan adds desert forts and palace hotels, Varanasi is the spiritual heart on the Ganges, Goa and Kerala bring beaches and backwaters, and the far north rises into the Himalaya.
Top destinations in India
Delhi
Mughal monuments, bustling bazaars and the start of the Golden Triangle.
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Agra
Home of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
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Jaipur
The Pink City of palaces, forts and colourful bazaars.
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Goa
Beaches, Portuguese heritage and laid-back shacks.
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Kochi
Chinese fishing nets, spice markets and the gateway to Kerala's backwaters.
Explore →Landmarks & things to see
Taj Mahal
The white-marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan, perhaps the world's most beautiful building.
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Amber Fort
A honey-coloured hilltop fort-palace with a mirrored hall.
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Hawa Mahal
The Palace of Winds, a pink honeycomb façade of 953 windows.
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Red Fort
The Mughal emperors' red-sandstone citadel in Old Delhi.
Discover →Map of India
Travel tips for India
- Most visitors need a visa; the e-Visa covers many nationalities.
- Book trains in advance on popular routes; they sell out quickly.
- Drink bottled or filtered water and eat where food is cooked fresh.
Where to stay in India
Delhi
Connaught Place: Central with metro access; South Delhi: Leafy, upmarket and calmer; Paharganj: Budget base near New Delhi station.
Agra
Taj Ganj: Steps from the Taj for sunrise; Fatehabad Road: Larger hotels with Taj views; Sadar Bazaar: Shopping and restaurants.
Jaipur
Old City: Close to the Hawa Mahal and bazaars; C-Scheme: Central, leafy and good restaurants; Amer area: Heritage hotels near the fort.
Goa
North Goa (Anjuna, Vagator): Lively beaches and nightlife; South Goa (Palolem, Agonda): Quieter, prettier beaches; Panaji (Fontainhas): Colourful Latin quarter.
Kochi
Fort Kochi: Heritage homestays and cafés; Mattancherry: Jew Town and spice warehouses; Ernakulam: Transport hub on the mainland.
Getting there and around
Most international visitors arrive by air via New Delhi or the main city gateways. Compare fares early for peak season, then use trains, buses, ferries or domestic flights between destinations.
India FAQ
When is the best time to visit India?
The best time to visit India is generally October to March. Conditions vary by region, so check each destination.
What currency is used in India?
The currency is the Indian rupee (INR). Cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry some cash for markets and rural areas.
Which plugs are used in India?
India uses plug types C, D, M. A universal travel adapter covers them.
What should I combine with India?
India combines well with Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, China.
Do I need a visa for India?
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change regularly. Check your government's travel advice and the official immigration website before you travel.
