India
India shamelessly encompasses some of the absolute best our world has to offer. Marvel at the admirable mosques and mausoleums, including the extraordinary Taj Mahal. Explore some of the most significant cities and immerse yourself in the culture. From the elaborate and grand architecture towering among the hot Indian sun and the perfectly spiced food made for taste buds alike to the bustling markets full of vibrant handicrafts and souvenirs and the friendly locals, India has quickly become one of the world's hottest destinations for savvy travelers.
Highlights
- Delhi
India's capital city, Delhi, is divided into two sections: Old Delhi and New Delhi. Dating back to the 1600s, the walled-in, traditional city of Old Delhi is home to the museum Gandhi Smriti, the outstanding Red Fort, and the Jama Masjid, considered one of the loveliest houses of worship in the entire world. Travel to the 21st century New Delhi, where you'll find the tallest stone tower in India, the Qatar Minar, the India Gate, and even the President's residence, the Rastrapathi Bhawan.
- Taj Mahal
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River sits the most outstanding architectural achievement and one of the world's most admired masterpieces, the Taj Mahal. This giant mausoleum and its surrounding complex were commissioned in 1632 by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife's remains. The stunning white marble structure was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and today stands as a great symbol of India's rich history. Set within lush green gardens and adorned with an enormous reflecting pool, this 240-foot-tall masterpiece attracts millions of locals and tourists annually.
- High Tea
High Tea is one of the oldest traditions, starting in the mid-1700s and rooted from the British. The primary purpose of this gathering is to enjoy evening hot tea with others, typically paired with small plates of food. In India, travelers will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a guest for High Tea with a local Indian family. This special treat provides a cultural exchange moment where you will be invited into the family's home to enjoy tea and learn about life in India from the locals.
- The Amber Fort
Perched on top of the Aravalli hills next to the stunning Maota Lake, the 1,000-year-old Amber Fort stands as the ancient capital of Rajasthan and is one of the most well-known and most visited forts in all of India. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, this marvelous red sandstone and white marble structure consist of a sprawling complex full of courtyards, grand palaces, decorated halls, and exquisite gardens. The fort illustrates a comprehensive blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, attracting travelers from around the world. Hop in a jeep and ascend the fortress to explore the sprawling grounds and intricate halls occupied by meticulous paintings and precious stones.
- Ganges River
Located in northern India and flowing from the Himalayan Mountains to the Bay of Bengal, the Ganges River is the longest in India. The river's basin is the most populated in the world, containing over 400 million people. These inhabitants use the river for bathing and fishing, but most importantly, it is incredibly significant to Hindus since they consider the Ganges River the most sacred. According to ancient mythology, the goddess Ganga came from heaven to occupy the Ganges River and protect, purify and bring those who touched its waters to heaven. Hindus will visit the river to appreciate Ganga and offer flowers and food, as well as cleanse their sins as they bathe in the river's basin. Throughout the year, large festivals and gatherings are held where millions of travelers come to the sacred river to bathe and be purified of their sins.
- Jaipur
Also known as the "Pink City" due to its copious red sandstone buildings, Jaipur holds the title of India's first city. This colorful and heavily-populated city attracts travelers and locals with its surrounding beauty, wandering camels, iconic snake charmers, towering palaces set in the middle of serene lakes, exotic bazaars, and more. Designed and built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is home to the summer palace of Hawa Mahal. The towering red and pink sandstone building captivates on-lookers with its unique honeycomb-shaped windows that allow continuous breezes to pass through the palace.
India's capital city, Delhi, is divided into two sections: Old Delhi and New Delhi. Dating back to the 1600s, the walled-in, traditional city of Old Delhi is home to the museum Gandhi Smriti, the outstanding Red Fort, and the Jama Masjid, considered one of the loveliest houses of worship in the entire world. Travel to the 21st century New Delhi, where you'll find the tallest stone tower in India, the Qatar Minar, the India Gate, and even the President's residence, the Rastrapathi Bhawan.
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River sits the most outstanding architectural achievement and one of the world's most admired masterpieces, the Taj Mahal. This giant mausoleum and its surrounding complex were commissioned in 1632 by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife's remains. The stunning white marble structure was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and today stands as a great symbol of India's rich history. Set within lush green gardens and adorned with an enormous reflecting pool, this 240-foot-tall masterpiece attracts millions of locals and tourists annually.
High Tea is one of the oldest traditions, starting in the mid-1700s and rooted from the British. The primary purpose of this gathering is to enjoy evening hot tea with others, typically paired with small plates of food. In India, travelers will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a guest for High Tea with a local Indian family. This special treat provides a cultural exchange moment where you will be invited into the family's home to enjoy tea and learn about life in India from the locals.
Perched on top of the Aravalli hills next to the stunning Maota Lake, the 1,000-year-old Amber Fort stands as the ancient capital of Rajasthan and is one of the most well-known and most visited forts in all of India. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, this marvelous red sandstone and white marble structure consist of a sprawling complex full of courtyards, grand palaces, decorated halls, and exquisite gardens. The fort illustrates a comprehensive blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, attracting travelers from around the world. Hop in a jeep and ascend the fortress to explore the sprawling grounds and intricate halls occupied by meticulous paintings and precious stones.
Located in northern India and flowing from the Himalayan Mountains to the Bay of Bengal, the Ganges River is the longest in India. The river's basin is the most populated in the world, containing over 400 million people. These inhabitants use the river for bathing and fishing, but most importantly, it is incredibly significant to Hindus since they consider the Ganges River the most sacred. According to ancient mythology, the goddess Ganga came from heaven to occupy the Ganges River and protect, purify and bring those who touched its waters to heaven. Hindus will visit the river to appreciate Ganga and offer flowers and food, as well as cleanse their sins as they bathe in the river's basin. Throughout the year, large festivals and gatherings are held where millions of travelers come to the sacred river to bathe and be purified of their sins.
Also known as the "Pink City" due to its copious red sandstone buildings, Jaipur holds the title of India's first city. This colorful and heavily-populated city attracts travelers and locals with its surrounding beauty, wandering camels, iconic snake charmers, towering palaces set in the middle of serene lakes, exotic bazaars, and more. Designed and built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is home to the summer palace of Hawa Mahal. The towering red and pink sandstone building captivates on-lookers with its unique honeycomb-shaped windows that allow continuous breezes to pass through the palace.Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to India? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Delhi |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Malaria Malaria is present in India. Take precautions against getting mosquito bites. Speak with your doctor about taking a prescription medicine (before, during, and after your trip) to prevent malaria. |
| Weather | When traveling to India, November thru March is the best time to visit. Temps in the north are between 40-70° F and temps in the south are between 65-85° F. March-June is dry and very, very hot. June-October is monsoon time. When traveling to the mountain region, the months of March, April, October and November are ideal. |
| Tipping |
In India you'll be expected to pay small amounts in order to get things done, as well as to reward for jobs already accomplished. |
| Money & Credit Cards | The local currency in India is the Indian Rupee. Most hotels and upscale stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency. We highly recommend that you bring crisp, new bills in small denominations. Old, torn, crumpled bills are not always accepted. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Shop for wood carvings, fabrics, brassware, copperware, bronzes, silver, fossils and crystals, sandalwood items, paper-mache, paintings and prints, dhurri rugs, dolls, tea, saffron, batiks, carpets, and gems (if you know what to look for). Bargaining is the norm. Beware of copycat brand-name items and animal products such as skins and horns- they are illegal. And remember to shop at the local markets! |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 230 volts. Plugs C & D. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
| Did you know? |
|
Videos
Tours & Packages
- Destinations: India
- including closed packages
Trip Reviews & Photos
We love hearing your stories and seeing your photos! Check out our entire fan photo gallery and upload your photos.