India – Travel guide

What to See and Do in India: Tips, Recommendations, and Must-Visit Places

India is a destination full of tourist wonders. From the Taj Mahal to the temples of Jaipur, the beaches of Goa, and the Himalayas. Enjoy its rich culture, exotic gastronomy, fascinating history, and unique activities. Explore India with our travel tips and detailed guides!

Basic Information about India

Flag of India

The flag of India, known as «Tiranga», consists of three horizontal stripes of equal size: saffron at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom. In the center of the white stripe is a navy blue chakra with 24 spokes, called the «Ashoka Chakra».

Capital of India

The capital of India is New Delhi, a dynamic city that blends history and modernity. With impressive monuments like the Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar, it offers a vibrant mix of culture, gastronomy, and urban life. It is the political heart of the country and an excellent starting point for exploring other wonders of India.

Official Language of India

In India, the official languages at the national level are Hindi and English. English is widely used as an auxiliary language in official, legal, educational, and business settings, especially for communication between regions with different local languages. Hindi is the most spoken language in the country.

Other Languages and Dialects in India

India recognizes 22 additional official languages, including Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, and Tamil. Additionally, the country has hundreds of dialects spoken across different regions.

Local Currency of India

The Indian Rupee (INR).

Current Currency Exchange in India

Common Phrase in India

• «Namaste» – Traditional greeting that means «I bow to you.»
• «Aap kaise hain?» (for men) or «Aap kaisi hain?» (for women) – Means «How are you?»

Population of India

The population of India is approximately 1.423 billion, making it the second most populous country in the world after China.

Area of India in km²

India covers an area of approximately 3,287,263 km², making it the seventh-largest country in the world by land area.

Time Zone and Time in India

UTC +5:30, the current time in India is:

Power Plugs and Voltage in India

Voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. The plugs are of type C, D, and M.

Seasons of the year and weather in India

Best time to visit India

The best time to visit India is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and drier, perfect for exploring. However, the climate varies by region; the north can be cold, especially in the mountains, while the south remains warmer and more humid. Avoid the monsoon season (June–September).

Average weather in the seasons of the year in India

In India, the climate varies by region, but it is generally divided into three main seasons:

• Winter (October to February): Temperatures are cooler, especially in the north, where it can get very cold, particularly in the mountainous areas. In the south, the climate is more temperate and pleasant.
• Summer (March to June): Temperatures can exceed 40°C, especially in the north and central regions. In the south, it is warmer and more humid.
• Monsoon (June to September): The climate becomes humid and rainy, especially along the west coast and northeast. Temperatures are moderate, but the rain can be intense.

Culture and traditions in India

Important festivals and celebrations in India

• Diwali: (October/November, nationwide) – The Festival of Lights that celebrates the triumph of good over evil.
• Holi: (February/March, nationwide) – The Festival of Colors that marks the arrival of spring.
• Durga Puja: (September/October, primarily in West Bengal) – A celebration in honor of the goddess Durga.
• Eid al-Fitr: (Variable date based on the lunar calendar, nationwide) – A Muslim celebration that marks the end of Ramadan.

Predominant religion in India

Hinduism is the majority religion in India, practiced by approximately 80% of the population. Other religions include Islam (around 14%), Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Customs and basic norms in India

• Dress conservatively, especially in religious places.
• Avoid public displays of affection.
• It is common to remove shoes before entering a house or temple.
• Greet with a «Namaste», joining the palms of your hands at chest height.

Typical cuisine of India

Must-try dishes in India

• Biryani: Spiced rice cooked with meat or vegetables.
• Masala Dosa: Rice crepe filled with a mixture of potatoes and spices.
• Butter Chicken: Chicken cooked in a creamy tomato and butter sauce.
• Paneer Tikka: Fresh cheese cubes marinated and grilled.

Traditional drinks in India

• Chai: Black tea with milk and spices.
• Lassi: Yogurt-based drink, which can be sweet or salty.
• Toddy: Fermented alcoholic drink made from palm sap.

Popular desserts in India

• Gulab Jamun: Fried dough balls soaked in syrup.
• Jalebi: Fried dough spirals soaked in syrup.
• Kheer: Rice pudding cooked with milk and sugar.

Must-have gastronomic experience in India

Trying street food in cities like Delhi or Mumbai is a must. On the bustling streets, you can taste traditional dishes cooked fresh right in front of you.

Cost of living and budget in India

Average cost of a meal in India

A budget meal can cost between 2 and 5 euros (180-450 INR), while meals at mid-range restaurants range from 10 to 20 euros (900-1800 INR).

Average cost of accommodation in India

• Budget accommodation: Hostels or guesthouses starting from 5 euros (450 INR) per night.
• Mid-range accommodation: 3-star hotels ranging from 20 to 50 euros (1800-4500 INR) per night.
• High-end accommodation: Luxury hotels starting from 100 euros (9000 INR) per night.

Local transportation price in India

• Rickshaw: Short trips from 0.50 euros (45 INR).
• Taxi: Starting fare of approximately 1 euro (90 INR), plus distance charges.
• Train: Long-distance trips starting from 5 euros (450 INR) in economy class.

Free or cheap attractions in India

• Visit temples and local markets.
• Take a walk through public parks and gardens.
• Explore historic neighborhoods and their streets.

Transportation and mobility in India

How to get to India

To reach India, the most common option is to fly. Most international flights arrive in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru. There are direct flights from many countries, with layovers available if necessary.

How to get around India

Within India, you can travel by train, one of the most popular and affordable means of transport. There are also domestic flights, buses, and taxis. Ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are available in many cities, and in rural areas, rickshaws are common.

Mobility tips in India

• Walk in tourist areas.
• Use Ola or Uber for more comfort.
• Travel by train to explore the country.
• Avoid peak hours due to traffic.
• Negotiate prices with rickshaws and buses.
• Be cautious on rural roads.

Must-see places in India

Unmissable cities or regions in India

• Udaipur: Known as the «City of Lakes,» famous for its palaces and lakeside views. Best visited between October and March.
• Jaipur: Part of the «Golden Triangle,» famous for its architecture and markets. Ideal from October to March.
• Varanasi: One of the oldest and most spiritual cities, perfect between October and March.
• Goa: With its paradise beaches and unique culture, ideal for relaxation between November and February.

Recommended tours in India

• Trekking in the Spiti Valley: Stunning landscapes and ancient monasteries in the Himalayas.
• Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur): History, architecture, and iconic monuments like the Taj Mahal.
• Safari in Ranthambore: Opportunity to see tigers and other animals in their natural habitat.
• Safari in the Thar Desert: Camel ride through the desert and visits to ancient forts.
• Trekking in the Western Ghats: Nature, hiking, and biodiversity in Kerala and Munnar.

Notable natural landscapes in India

• The Himalayas in Ladakh: Offers stunning mountain landscapes and hiking opportunities. Best visited from June to September.
• Backwaters of Kerala: A network of lagoons and canals providing unique experiences in houseboats. Visit between November and February for cool and dry weather.
• Thar Desert in Rajasthan: Golden dunes and camel safaris characterize this desert. The ideal months to visit are October to March.

World Heritage sites or historical landmarks in India

• Taj Mahal: Iconic white marble mausoleum in Agra, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
• Qutub Minar: A 73-meter tall minaret in Delhi, representing early Islamic architecture in India.
• Ellora and Ajanta Caves: Cave complexes in Maharashtra showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain sculptures and paintings.

Unique activities to do in India

• Participate in the Holi Festival: Celebrated in March, this vibrant and joyous festival of colors is an unforgettable experience across the country.
• Sail on a houseboat in Kerala: Exploring the tranquil backwaters offers a unique perspective of local life.
• Attend an Aarti ceremony on the Ganges River: Especially in Varanasi, witnessing this ceremony is deeply spiritual.

Entry and health requirements in India

Visa requirements for India

To travel to India, you will need a visa. The requirements vary depending on the type, but generally include:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.
• Completed visa application form.
• Recent passport-sized photo.
• Payment of visa fees.
• E-visa available for citizens of many countries (including Spain and Germany).
• Proof of sufficient funds in some cases.
• Return ticket or travel itinerary.

Remember to check specific requirements at the embassy or consulate before your trip.

Customs and security control in India

Upon arrival in India, you will go through passport and customs control. Declare items subject to taxes or restrictions. Authorities perform security checks at airports and train stations. Make sure to comply with local safety regulations and have your documents ready.

Required and recommended vaccinations for India

Required vaccines:

• Yellow Fever (if coming from a country with yellow fever risk).

Recommended vaccines:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Japanese encephalitis (depending on the region)
• Malaria (prevention recommended in some areas)
• Rabies (if at high risk)

It is important to consult with a doctor before traveling for personalized recommendations.

Recommended travel insurance for India

When traveling to India, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers:

• Medical emergencies: Medical care in case of illness or accident.
• Trip cancellation: Refunds for trip cancellations or interruptions.
• Lost luggage: Coverage in case of lost or stolen luggage.
• Evacuation coverage: Transport in case medical evacuation is necessary.
• Liability insurance: Protection against third-party damage.

Look for an insurance plan that suits your personal needs and offers coverage in India. Also, make sure it includes access to local hospitals, as fees can be high in some cases.

Health, hygiene, and food precautions in India

• Health, hygiene, and food precautions in India:
• Drink only bottled or purified water.
• Avoid eating food from street vendors.
• Opt for cooked food.
• Wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer.
• Use sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.
• Carry a first aid kit with basic medications.

Safety in India

Safest areas in India

Cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, and tourist areas in Kerala are generally safe for travelers. However, it is always advisable to stay alert and follow usual precautions.

Unsafe areas in India

Some border regions and remote areas may pose risks due to political tensions or insurgent activities. It is advisable to consult the travel recommendations from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before planning a visit to these areas.

General safety tips for travelers in India

• Transport: Use reliable transportation and avoid traveling alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
• Personal belongings: Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded places to avoid pickpockets.
• Cultural respect: Dress conservatively and respect local customs, especially in religious places.

Emergencies and contact with local authorities in India

In case of emergency, the general number to call in India is 112. To contact the police, you can dial 100. It is recommended to have the address and contact number of your country’s embassy or consulate handy.

Important people of India

Key figures in the history of India

• Mahatma Gandhi: Leader of the Indian independence movement, known for his approach of nonviolent resistance.
• Jawaharlal Nehru: First Prime Minister of independent India and a central figure in Indian politics.
• Indira Gandhi: The first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister in India, known for her decisive policies.

Current influential figures of India

• Narendra Modi: Current Prime Minister of India, leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
• Mukesh Ambani: Businessman and chairman of Reliance Industries, one of the largest companies in India.
• Priyanka Chopra: Internationally recognized actress and producer, influential in cinema and fashion.

Fun facts and surprising things about India

Curious facts about India

• Linguistic diversity: India recognizes 22 official languages and more than 1,600 dialects are spoken across the country.
• Shadowless day: In certain regions of India, during the summer solstice, objects do not cast a shadow due to the position of the sun.

Customs and striking curiosities of India

• Eating with the right hand: It is common and culturally accepted to use the right hand for eating, as the left is considered impure.
• Removing shoes: Before entering homes or temples, it is customary to remove shoes as a sign of respect.
• In the village of Shani Shingnapur, no one uses locks on their houses because they believe god Shani protects them.

Superstitions and popular beliefs of India

• It is considered bad luck to cut nails or hair on Tuesdays and Thursdays in some parts of the country.
• The evil eye (Nazar): It is believed that envious glances cause bad luck or illness, and protection is sought through charms or rituals involving lemons and chilies.
• The legend of the «Bhoot Bangla«: It is believed that certain old houses are haunted, and people avoid them, especially at night.

Traditions and cultural habits of India

In everyday life in India, traditions are fundamental:

• Traditional greeting: The «Namaste» with hands together shows respect and humility.
• Religion and festivals: Celebrations like Diwali and Holi involve prayers and family gatherings.
• Clothing: Women usually wear sari, and men kurta-pajama, especially during festivals.
• Food: The food includes curries, dals, and the use of spices. It is typically eaten with the right hand.
• Caste and respect: Although illegal, castes still influence daily life, and respect for elders is essential.
• Yoga and meditation: Commonly practiced, especially in places like Rishikesh.
• Markets: These are the heart of communities, filled with life and traditional products.

These traditions vary across regions but reflect a deep connection with the customs.

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