UK FCDO travel advice: Exercise normal precautions when travelling to India. Some areas may have increased risk — check conditions for the specific regions you plan to visit.
Discover
Top Attractions in India
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
Taj Mahal
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.
Varanasi (Benares)
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.
Jaipur — The Pink City
Rajasthan's capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and vibrant bazaars selling textiles, jewellery, and spices.
Kerala Backwaters
A network of interconnected lakes, canals, and rivers flowing through lush tropical scenery in southern India. A houseboat cruise is one of India's most relaxing travel experiences.
Hampi
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka — the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire spread across a dramatic landscape of giant boulders and banana plantations.
Ranthambore National Park
One of India's best places to spot Bengal tigers in the wild, set against a dramatic backdrop of ancient ruins, forests, and lakes in Rajasthan.
Where to Go
Top Cities to Visit in India
Agra
Home to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri
Jaipur
The Pink City — forts, palaces, and a riot of colour in Rajasthan
Varanasi
The spiritual capital of India on the sacred Ganges
Mumbai
India's financial and entertainment capital — Bollywood and beyond
Kerala (Kochi)
Gateway to backwaters, spice plantations, and pristine beaches
Rishikesh
Yoga capital of the world, nestled in the Himalayas above the Ganges
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting India
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.
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.