Travel Guide
Select your passport to instantly check if you need a visa.

UK FCDO: The FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the India to Pakistan border and to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, with limited exceptions for air travel to and within Jammu city, and against all but essential travel to Manipur. The rest of the country carries no advisory against travel.
Updated 2026-08-22 23:56:56
Discover
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
Built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife, the Taj Mahal is universally considered one of the world's great architectural masterpieces.
One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India. The ghats along the Ganges, evening aarti ceremonies, and ancient temples are profoundly moving.
Health & Safety
Before you travel check that: your destination can provide the healthcare you may need you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. Emergency medical number Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance. Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. Vaccine recommendations and health risks At least 8 weeks before your trip: check the latest vaccine recommendations for India see where to get vaccines and whether y
Full health advice (FCDO) →Health information sourced from UK FCDO. Always consult a travel health professional before departure.
Practical Info
Travel Guide
Yes. Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. An e-Visa (eTV) is available for tourism for citizens of over 160 countries — apply online before travel. Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan are exempt.
India's tourist e-Visa typically allows stays of up to 90 days per visit (30 days for Pakistani nationals). The e-Visa is valid for 365 days from the date of issue and allows double entry.
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity, a printed copy of your e-Visa approval, return or onward travel details, a passport-sized photograph, and evidence of sufficient funds.
India is generally safe for tourists. Millions of visitors travel safely each year. Petty theft is the most common issue. Solo female travellers should take additional precautions, particularly at night and in rural areas. Read specific destination advice for the regions you plan to visit.
The Indian Rupee (INR, symbol ₹). Cash is still widely used — ensure you carry enough rupees, particularly in rural areas. ATMs are common in cities but less reliable in smaller towns.
India has 22 constitutionally recognised languages. Hindi is the most widely spoken and English is used widely for government, business, education, and tourism.
October to March is the ideal time for most of India — cool and dry across the plains and hill stations. Avoid the monsoon season (June–September) for northern sightseeing, though it can be spectacular in Kerala and Goa. Summer (April–June) is very hot in the plains.
Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, witness the Varanasi ghats ceremonies, explore Rajasthan's forts and palaces, take a Kerala houseboat cruise, spot tigers in a wildlife reserve, hike in the Himalayas, explore the temples of Hampi, and experience a local festival.
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai are the primary international hubs. Bengaluru (BLR) and Chennai (MAA) also handle significant international traffic.
Yes, strongly recommended. Medical facilities are excellent in major cities but limited in rural areas. A policy covering emergency medical evacuation is advisable.
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow fever zone. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccinations are strongly recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is advisable for travel to certain regions.
Rajasthan's capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and vibrant bazaars selling textiles, jewellery, and spices.
One of the world's oldest cities and the spiritual heart of India
Yes, for up to 1 year with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and home licence. Road conditions and driving habits in India can be challenging and very different from Western countries — many visitors opt for hired cars with drivers.
Duty-free allowance for tourists includes goods worth up to INR 50,000. Currency over USD 5,000 (or equivalent) must be declared. Antiques over 100 years old cannot be exported without a permit.
Tipping is customary and appreciated. Tip 10% in restaurants (check if service charge is included), give small tips to hotel staff, drivers, and guides. Amounts are modest by Western standards.
No. Tap water is not safe to drink in India. Drink only bottled or purified water, avoid ice in drinks, and be cautious with raw salads and fruits.
India mainly uses Type D (three large round pins) and Type C (two round pins) outlets at 230V / 50Hz. Type M is also used. Adapters are widely available at airports and hotels.
100 (Police), 102 (Ambulance), 101 (Fire). The national emergency number 112 is also operational.
Most governments advise normal precautions for major tourist regions of India. Certain border areas (Kashmir, parts of the northeast) may have elevated advisory levels. Check your government's official travel advice for specific regions.
Entry requirements by passport
Pick your passport to see the exact requirement, the stay limit, and the official source.