India is one of the world’s most diverse and culturally rich countries, where towering Himalayan peaks, tropical coastlines, vast deserts and lush forests span an extraordinary landscape. Home to thousands of years of history and a remarkable variety of languages, religions, cuisines and traditions, every region offers a distinctive experience, from the bustling streets of Mumbai and Delhi to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala and the deserts of Rajasthan.
Community Tips For India
India is enormous, and travelling between regions can take considerably longer than expected. Domestic flights and an extensive rail network make longer journeys easier.
India’s climate varies dramatically, from Himalayan winters to tropical heat in the south, so check conditions for each region rather than assuming the whole country has the same weather.
India’s cities can be extremely busy and chaotic, particularly around major roads and markets, so allow extra time when travelling and remain aware of your surroundings.
India is incredibly diverse culturally and religiously, so dress respectfully when visiting temples, mosques and other religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and observe piety.
Explore India
Delhi
Delhi is India’s capital and one of the country’s most historically significant cities, combining ancient monuments, Mughal architecture and modern urban life.
The Red Fort, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar are among the city’s most important landmarks.
Delhi’s extensive Metro network is one of the easiest ways to navigate the enormous city while avoiding some of its heavy road traffic.
Old Delhi offers a completely different atmosphere from the modern capital, with bustling markets, narrow streets and some of India’s most famous street food.
Mumbai
Mumbai is India’s financial and entertainment capital, renowned for its spectacular coastline, colonial architecture and energetic atmosphere.
The Gateway of India, Marine Drive and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus are among its most recognisable landmarks.
Mumbai’s local railway network is an integral part of daily life and one of the fastest ways to cross the city, although it can become extremely crowded.
The city is also the centre of India’s enormous Bollywood film industry, with its influence visible throughout Mumbai’s culture and entertainment scene.
Jaipur
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and one of India’s most visually distinctive cities, famous for its pink-coloured architecture, grand palaces and forts.
The magnificent Amber Fort and City Palace are among the city’s most impressive attractions.
Jaipur forms part of India’s famous ‘Golden Triangle’ alongside Delhi and Agra, making it easy to combine with visits to the Taj Mahal.
The city’s markets are renowned for colourful textiles, jewellery and traditional handicrafts, making Jaipur an excellent destination for experiencing Rajasthani culture.
Kolkata
Kolkata is one of India’s great cultural centres, renowned for its literature, art, architecture and distinctive Bengali cuisine.
The Victoria Memorial is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks and reflects Kolkata’s colonial heritage.
The city’s historic neighbourhoods are best explored at a relaxed pace, with markets, temples and colonial-era buildings revealing different aspects of Kolkata’s character.
Kolkata provides an excellent introduction to eastern India and offers a noticeably different cultural experience from India’s northern and western cities.
