Ultimate India Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit India varies depending on the region and activities planned. Generally, the winter months from November to February offer pleasant weather across most parts of the country, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Average Temperature By Month
January: 14°C (57°F)
February: 17°C (63°F)
March: 22°C (72°F)
April: 29°C (84°F)
May: 34°C (93°F)
June: 36°C (97°F)
July: 32°C (90°F)
August: 32°C (90°F)
September: 31°C (88°F)
October: 29°C (84°F)
November: 23°C (73°F)
December: 17°C (63°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
India Standard Time (IST), UTC+5:30.
Currency:
The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist destinations, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
Language:
Hindi and English are the official languages of India, with English widely spoken, particularly in urban centers and tourist hubs.
Airport:
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai are two of the busiest international airports in India, serving as major gateways for international travelers.
How To Get Around
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 14°C (57°F)
February: 17°C (63°F)
March: 22°C (72°F)
April: 29°C (84°F)
May: 34°C (93°F)
June: 36°C (97°F)
July: 32°C (90°F)
August: 32°C (90°F)
September: 31°C (88°F)
October: 29°C (84°F)
November: 23°C (73°F)
December: 17°C (63°F)
Plugs:
India typically uses Type C, D, and M electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable for secure internet browsing, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
India is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to exercise caution, particularly in crowded areas, and to be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards:
Credit card acceptance in India is growing, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and RuPay (India’s domestic card network). Contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly common.
Debit Cards:
Debit cards are widely used in India for everyday transactions, including shopping and ATM withdrawals. Most banks issue debit cards that can be used domestically and internationally. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
ATMs:
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns throughout India, allowing you to withdraw Indian Rupees (INR). However, ATM availability may be limited in rural areas and remote regions. It’s advisable to use ATMs located inside banks or major shopping centers for security.
Currency Exchange:
The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). It’s recommended to exchange your currency to Indian Rupees upon arrival in India. You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks, currency exchange booths, and some hotels. US dollars and euros are widely accepted for exchange.
Banks:
Major banks in India include:
- State Bank of India (SBI): The largest bank in India, SBI offers a wide range of banking services including savings accounts, loans, and foreign exchange.
- ICICI Bank: Another prominent bank in India, ICICI Bank provides various banking products and services for individuals and businesses.
Traveler’s Checks:
Traveler’s checks are becoming less common worldwide, and their usage is limited in India. It’s recommended to carry cash or use credit/debit cards for transactions. However, some banks may still offer services for cashing traveler’s checks, albeit with a fee.
Tips for Banking in India:
- Notify your bank before traveling to India to inform them of your travel plans and avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, and be cautious when using ATMs, especially in secluded areas or at night.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry small denominations of Indian Rupees for smaller purchases, as change may be limited.
By understanding the banking system in India, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[91] (11) 2419-8000; US Embassy in New Delhi, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021, India; acsnd@state.gov; https://in.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
91
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 102; Fire: 101; Police: 100, 103 (traffic accident)
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for India: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19.
Climate
Varies from tropical monsoon in south to temperate in north
Currency (Code)
Indian rupees (INR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, M
Major Languages
Hindi , Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Urdu, Kannada, Odia, Malayalam, Punjabi, Assamese, Maithili, English
Major Religions
Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh
Time Difference
UTC+5.5 (10.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Taj Mahal; Delhi; Dhamek Stupa; Amer Fort; Beaches of Goa; Periyar National Park; Agra Fort; Ellora Caves; Mehrangarh Fort; Nalanda Mahavihara Archaelogical Site; Mahabodhi Temple
Major Sports
Cricket, field hockey, soccer, badminton, tennis, kabaddi (contact team sport played between two teams of seven players each)
Cultural Practices
Wearing shoes indoors and pointing at people is considered rude.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping 7-10% of the total bill is sufficient at restaurants. Round up taxi fares. Tip bellhops loose change for carrying bags to your room. For housekeeping, tip 5-7% of the hotel charge per night divided by the number of days stayed.
Souvenirs
Handmade shoes and leather goods, traditional saris, Nehru jackets, gold and bangle jewelry, furniture and lacquered decorative items, brass and wood carvings; cardamom, cinnamon, curry, saffron, and other spices; antiques
Traditional Cuisine
Khichdi — a dish of rice and lentils; Biryani — long-grain rice cooked with spices and meat and often topped with fried onion flakes and boiled eggs; Tandoori Chicken — whole chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, and baked in a tandoor (a traditional Indian clay oven)
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
