India

India, officially known as the Republic of India, is the seventh-largest country by area and the second-most populous nation, with over 1.4 billion people. It shares borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar and is surrounded by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east. The capital, New Delhi, is a bustling hub of history and modernity, while cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata showcase the country’s diverse urban identities. India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic and operates on Indian Standard Time (GMT+5:30).

Indian cuisine is diverse, representing the different regions of the country. Each state has its own food style. In the north, people enjoy rich dishes like butter chicken and biryani. In the south, they prefer rice-based meals, tangy curries, and coconut-based stews. Spices such as cardamom, cumin, and turmeric are key ingredients in Indian cooking.

Wine production in India is growing, with Maharashtra producing fine reds and whites. Indian brands like Sula and Chateau Indage have gained international recognition.

India offers outdoor experiences that range from thrilling adventures to peaceful retreats. Trekking in the Himalayas is a bucket-list experience for many. For wildlife enthusiasts, a safari in Ranthambore National Park or the Sundarbans can provide close encounters with Bengal tigers and rare species like the Gangetic dolphin.

Visiting attraction points like the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, and the Gandhi Ashram will count as a way of exploring India too.

The existence of  the Himalayas and the Ganges, which showcase most of the Indian plains, the long and beautiful coastline, deserts, wildlife, and natural reserves sheltering endangered animal and plant species are all proof of India’s natural diversity. 

The Kaziranga National Park, Thar Desert in Rajasthan, the Sirohi National Park, housing the world’s only terrestrial lily, and the beautiful beaches of Goa are points of contact with the varied Indian landscape.

India’s festivals are a riot of colour, sound, and tradition, each offering a glimpse into its cultural fabric. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated across the country with lamps, fireworks, and feasts. Holi, the Festival of Colours, is a joyous occasion marking the beginning of a new harvest season in India, while Rajasthan’s Pushkar Camel Fair transforms a desert town into a bustling carnival of trade, culture, and celebration.

Visitors should ensure they are vaccinated against hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Based on the areas being visited, vaccinations for hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies may also be recommended. Mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue are present, so insect repellent is essential, particularly in rural and forested areas.

Drinking bottled water is highly recommended. Eating freshly cooked food is generally safe, though caution is advised with raw salads, vegetables, and street food in unfamiliar locations. Private healthcare providers are your best bet, as most public hospitals are always overcrowded.

The official currency is the Indian rupee (INR).

India uses plug types C, D, and M, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.

India is big, but getting around is as easy as you want it. There are a lot of transport options that cater for individual preferences. Planes and trains are available for different classes of travel. Buses, cars, taxis, rickshaws, motorcycles and boats are all available to cater for your preferred  style of travel.

While Hindi is the most widely spoken language, English is also commonly used, particularly in urban areas and for business purposes. Other commonly used languages are,  Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri.

Respect for tradition is key in India. When visiting temples or mosques, modest clothing is essential, and shoes must be removed before entering sacred spaces. It is customary to use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered impure.

Hospitality is deeply ingrained in Indian culture, and guests are often treated with warmth and generosity. Be explicitly clear whenever you communicate with an Indian, as most Indians are neutral communicators. Personal questions are not meant to make you uncomfortable; they are a way of getting to know you.

• Spring (March to April): Warm days and pleasant evenings make spring ideal for sightseeing and exploring India’s cities and countryside.

• Summer (May to June): Summers can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in the northern plains. The days are usually long, and the nights are very short.

• Monsoon (July to September): Monsoons bring heavy rainfall, enhancing the landscape's greenery. Unlike summer, the days are short, while the nights are very long. 

• Winter (October to February): Winter is the peak tourist season, and it is characterised by dryness, occasional rainfall, and snow. It is usually the coldest season of the year.

India is an affordable destination for most travellers. Backpackers can comfortably spend $25–50 daily, covering budget accommodations and local food. Mid-range travellers may budget $70–150 daily for boutique hotels, guided tours, and upgraded transport options. Luxury travellers can indulge in world-class hotels, private tours, and fine dining for $300 or more daily.

• Witness the grandeur of the Taj Mahal at sunrise for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Explore the ghats of Varanasi, where life and spirituality converge along the Ganges.

• Take a tea plantation tour in Munnar or Darjeeling to experience India’s famed tea culture.

• Visit Hampi’s ancient ruins for a glimpse into the Vijayanagara Empire.

• Be patient and open-minded—India can overwhelm you, but it will reward you with unforgettable memories.