Discover
the ultimate travel guide to India, featuring top destinations,
must-see attractions, and local tips. Whether you're exploring
cultural landmarks or hidden gems, this guide has everything you need
for an unforgettable journey.
Country: India
Continent / Region: Asia / South Asia
Capital City: New Delhi
Government Type: Federal Parliamentary Republic
Population: Approx. 1.43 billion
Official Language(s): Hindi & English (plus 21 recognised regional languages)
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~12% (higher in major cities)
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+5:30
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/D/M – 230V
Adapter Needed: Yes — UK travellers usually need an adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (all services), 100 (Police), 102 (Ambulance), 101 (Fire)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 8.5–9.5 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: October–March
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Yes — eVisa available
- Visa Duration / Cost: 30–365 days depending on visa type
- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended; consider Rabies & Japanese Encephalitis
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in India):
Average Daily Costs: £15 / £35 / £90+
Tipping Culture: 5–10% standard
Public Transport Options: Metro, taxis, rickshaws, buses, domestic flights, trains
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: INR 20–40 (metro)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; Jio, Airtel, Vi
Main Climate Type: Extremely varied — tropical, desert, alpine, monsoon, temperate
Average Temperature: 5–45°C depending on region & season
Major Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad
Natural Attractions: Himalayas, deserts, beaches, jungles, rivers
Popular Destinations: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, Rishikesh, Ladakh, Varanasi
Main Religions: Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Curries, biryani, dosa, thali, chai, samosas, tandoori dishes (Food varies hugely between regions)
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Jaipur palaces, Kerala backwaters, Golden Temple, Varanasi ghats, Himalayas
Overall Safety Rating: Varies — exercise caution in crowded areas
Common Scams: Taxi/tout scams, fake tours, overcharging
Health Risks: Delhi pollution, heat, food hygiene issues, mosquito-borne illnesses
Recommended Clinics: High-standard private hospitals in major cities
Insurance Recommendation: Essential — especially for adventure travel
Internet Speed: Excellent 4G/5G coverage nationwide
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Taj Mahal, Jaipur forts, Kerala backwaters, Goa beaches, Delhi monuments, Rishikesh Ganga ceremonies
Unique Experiences: Tiger safaris, yoga retreats, camel safaris, Himalayan trekking, chai-making workshops
Hidden Gems: Spiti Valley, Hampi ruins, Majuli Island, Meghalaya living root bridges, Gokarna beaches
Popular Areas to Stay: Delhi Connaught Place, Mumbai Colaba, Jaipur old city, Goa beaches, Kerala houseboats
Average Hotel Prices: £15 / £40 / £120+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Mumbai Bandra/Colaba, Delhi Hauz Khas, Goa beach clubs, Bengaluru Koramangala
Local Drinks: Chai, lassi, Kingfisher beer, Indian rum
Entertainment: Bollywood shows, rooftop bars, cultural performances
Car Rental: Available but not recommended for self-driving
Trains: Extensive network; book ahead
Domestic Flights: Affordable & widely used
Tuk-Tuks: Everywhere — use meter or negotiate
Ride Apps: Uber, Ola
Best Markets: Delhi Chandni Chowk, Jaipur bazaars, Mumbai Colaba Causeway, Kerala spice markets
Popular Souvenirs: Spices, jewellery, textiles, tea, handicrafts, incense
Local SIM Card Providers: Jio, Airtel, Vi
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe — bottled or purified only
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
India is home to over 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the world’s largest film industry — Bollywood.