Travel to India

India is less a country and more a subcontinent, a dizzying kaleidoscope of ancient traditions, modern aspirations, and breathtaking landscapes. Its sheer scale means you can't see it all in one go; a typical trip might focus on one region or a couple of major cities. From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the tropical beaches of the south, India offers unparalleled diversity. The pace of travel can be intense, but the rewards are immense, offering incredible value for money, especially if you embrace local transport and eateries. Prepare for an assault on the senses, a journey that challenges and enchants in equal measure.

Cities to explore in India

Pively covers multiple cities in India. Click a card for the full guide — flights, hotels, budget and multi-destination itineraries.

Which city to pick

For first-timers, the Golden Triangle, including **New Delhi**, is essential, offering a crash course in India's history and culture. **Mumbai** is the city for those seeking a taste of modern India's energy, a hub for finance, fashion, and the vibrant Bollywood scene. If you're after spiritual immersion, Varanasi (accessible from New Delhi) is unparalleled. For sheer historical grandeur and desert landscapes, the cities of Rajasthan like Jaipur (often combined with Delhi) are captivating. Each city offers a unique facet of India, and combining **New Delhi** for its historical depth with **Mumbai** for its contemporary pulse provides a fantastic contrast.

Regions to know

Northern India

Home to the iconic Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), the majestic Himalayas, and the spiritual heartland of Varanasi. This region offers historical grandeur, spiritual pilgrimage, and stunning mountain scenery. Pively covers New Delhi, the gateway to this diverse area. A 7-10 day exploration of the Golden Triangle is a classic introduction.

Western India

Characterized by its long coastline, bustling metropolises, and desert landscapes. Mumbai, India's financial capital and Bollywood hub, is the star here, offering a taste of modern India. Explore ancient cave temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets. A 3-5 day stay in Mumbai provides a good overview.

Southern India

Known for its serene backwaters in Kerala, spice plantations in Tamil Nadu, and ancient temples. This region offers a more relaxed pace, lush greenery, and distinct culinary traditions. While Pively doesn't currently cover specific Southern cities, it's a region worth exploring for its unique charm and natural beauty. Recommend 7-14 days.

Rajasthan

A land of maharajas, forts, and deserts. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur offer a glimpse into India's royal past with opulent palaces and vibrant bazaars. The landscape is arid but beautiful, dotted with historical treasures. A 7-day circuit is ideal for experiencing its highlights.

Suggested itineraries

7j — Golden Triangle Classic

A 7-day loop starting and ending in **New Delhi**. Spend 3 days in Delhi exploring Old and New Delhi, then travel to Agra (1 day) to see the Taj Mahal, followed by 2 days in Jaipur before returning to Delhi. Use trains or private car for inter-city travel.

10j — Delhi & Mumbai Explorer

A 10-day itinerary focusing on contrasts. Spend 4 days in **New Delhi** exploring its historical sites and markets. Take an overnight train or a short flight to **Mumbai** for 5 days to experience its coastal charm, Bollywood culture, and colonial architecture. Finish with 1 day buffer before departure.

14j — North India & Rajasthan

A comprehensive 14-day journey. Start with 4 days in **New Delhi**, then travel to Jaipur (3 days), Udaipur (3 days), and Jodhpur (2 days) in Rajasthan. Conclude with 2 days back in Delhi for last-minute exploration or departure. Opt for flights or comfortable overnight trains between major cities.

Best time to go

The best time to visit India is generally between October and March, when the weather is cooler and drier across most of the country. Northern India, including Delhi, experiences pleasant temperatures during these months, though evenings can be chilly. Rajasthan is ideal during this period, avoiding the scorching summer heat. Southern India is best visited from December to February to avoid the monsoon season. Avoid the peak summer months (April-June) when temperatures soar, especially in the north and west. The monsoon season (July-September) brings heavy rains, particularly to the west coast and north, which can disrupt travel but also bring lush greenery. Major festivals like Diwali (Oct/Nov) and Holi (Mar) offer vibrant cultural experiences but also mean higher crowds and prices.

Practical tips

Visa: Most EU, US, and UK passport holders can obtain an e-Visa online for tourism, typically valid for 30 days or longer stays. Always check the official Indian government immigration website for the latest requirements specific to your nationality well in advance.
Currency: The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Currently, 1 EUR is roughly 90 INR, but check current exchange rates. While cards are accepted in larger hotels and stores, cash is king for smaller vendors, markets, and auto-rickshaws. ATMs are widely available in cities.
Language: Hindi is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas, hotels, and by educated locals. Downloading a translation app like Google Translate is helpful for basic interactions.
Transport: For longer distances, domestic flights offer speed, while trains provide a classic Indian experience (book in advance!). Buses are economical but can be slow. Within cities like **New Delhi** and **Mumbai**, ride-sharing apps (Uber, Ola) and auto-rickshaws are convenient. Metro systems in Delhi are efficient and affordable.
SIM / eSIM: Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is cost-effective. Major operators include Airtel, Jio, and Vi. Ensure you have your passport and visa for registration. Alternatively, consider an eSIM via providers like Airalo for convenience, though data packages might be slightly pricier.

Culture & etiquette

Tipping isn't mandatory but appreciated. A 5-10% tip in restaurants and for drivers is common. When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively (cover shoulders and knees), remove shoes before entering temples or homes, and always ask permission before taking photos of people. Avoid using your left hand for eating or passing objects, as it's traditionally considered unclean. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Be prepared for crowds and noise; patience and a sense of humour go a long way.

Daily budget

India offers excellent value. **Frugal travelers** can manage on $25-40 USD per day (hostels, street food, local buses). **Standard travelers** ($50-80 USD/day) can afford comfortable mid-range hotels, restaurant meals, and occasional flights/trains. **Comfort travelers** ($100+ USD/day) will enjoy boutique hotels, private transport, and fine dining. A mid-range hotel night might be $40-60, a decent meal $10-20, an auto-rickshaw ride $3-5, and entry to a major monument $5-15.