India Travel Guide 2026
Explore top cities, best places to visit, food, and travel tips across India's 28 states.
India is one of the world's most diverse travel destinations, spanning snow-capped Himalayan peaks, tropical beaches, ancient cave temples, and some of Asia's most vibrant megacities. From the street food lanes of Mumbai to the palace hotels of Rajasthan and the backwaters of Kerala, India offers experiences at every budget across 28 states and union territories.
Browse by State / Region
Open a state to view covered cities and dive into categories and listings.
Best places to visit in India
Landmarks and regions many travellers build an itinerary around.
Taj Mahal
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
UNESCO World Heritage marble mausoleum, one of the world's most recognised monuments.
Kerala Backwaters
Kerala
Network of lagoons, lakes, and canals best explored on a traditional houseboat.
Rajasthan Forts & Palaces
Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur
Royal Rajput forts, lake palaces, and desert landscapes across India's largest state.
Goa Beaches
Goa
Indian Ocean beaches with Portuguese colonial architecture, seafood, and a relaxed coastal vibe.
Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh
One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, with ghats on the Ganges sacred to Hindu pilgrimage.
Food & cuisine in India
Flavours and dishes worth seeking out on the road.
Indian cuisine varies dramatically by region — from the spiced curries of the north to the coconut-based dishes of Kerala, the street food of Mumbai, and the rice thalis of Tamil Nadu.
Must-try dishes
- Biryani — fragrant rice dish with spices and meat or vegetables
- Butter chicken — mild tomato and cream curry, north Indian staple
- Dosa — crispy fermented rice crepe, South Indian breakfast
- Chaat — sweet-sour-spicy street food snacks from Delhi and Mumbai
- Thali — regional set meals with multiple curries, bread, and rice
Featured Cities in India
Start with popular city pages and explore curated categories.
Mumbai
India’s financial heart and a nonstop coastal metropolis on the Arabian Sea.
Pune
Pleasant plateau city where universities, tech parks, and old neighborhoods meet.
Nagpur
Geographical center of India with growing logistics, education, and food industries.
New Delhi
Planned capital district framed by government buildings, embassies, and leafy avenues.
Delhi
Historic core of bazaars, monuments, and tight-knit neighborhoods that predate modern India.
Bengaluru
Garden city turned tech capital, known for startups, traffic, and cool evening air.
Mysuru
Palace city with wide roads, heritage buildings, and a slower-paced daily rhythm.
Mangaluru
Coastal city where ports, colleges, and beaches shape student and working life.
Chennai
Bay of Bengal metropolis built around music, temples, IT parks, and filter coffee.
Coimbatore
Industrial and educational hub at the foothills of the Western Ghats.
Madurai
Temple city centered on the Meenakshi Amman complex and busy market streets.
Hyderabad
Pearl and biryani city where heritage lanes sit beside glass-fronted tech campuses.
Visa & entry — India
General information only. Rules differ by nationality, purpose of visit, and change often.
- India generally uses an e-Visa system for many short tourist visits where eligible.
- Some nationalities may need a sticker visa or different category — check the official portal.
- Electronic travel authorization / e-Visa (where eligible): Many nationalities (tourist e-Visa, where eligible)
- Other nationalities: Generally required for visitors not covered by e-Visa or bilateral exemptions
Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or government website before traveling. See official source: mha.gov.in
Frequently asked questions
Common questions travellers ask about visiting India.
What is the best time to visit India?
October to March is generally the best time to visit most of India — cool, dry weather suits sightseeing across the north and south. The Himalayan region is best May–October. Avoid April–June in the plains when temperatures can exceed 40°C.
How many days do you need for India?
A first-time visitor typically needs at least 10–14 days to cover the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Add Mumbai or Kerala for a fuller picture. India rewards longer trips of 3–4 weeks for those with time.
Is India safe for tourists?
India is visited by millions of international tourists annually and is generally safe. Standard precautions apply — use registered taxis, keep valuables secure in crowded areas, and stay hydrated in summer heat. Major cities have well-established tourist infrastructure.
What is India's currency?
India's currency is the Indian Rupee (₹, INR). ATMs are widely available in cities. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants but carry cash for street food, local transport, and smaller businesses.
Do I need a visa for India?
Most nationalities need a visa for India. An e-Visa is available online for citizens of many countries and is typically valid for short tourist stays. Always verify current visa requirements with the official Indian government website before travelling.