India Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

India requires more vigilance than most destinations but is manageable. Register with your embassy, keep digital passport copies in cloud storage, use Uber/Ola rather than street taxis (especially at night), book trains through IRCTC rather than from touts, only accept pre-packaged food and bottled water, research neighborhoods before booking accommodation, and trust your instincts. Solo female travelers: stick to well-lit tourist areas after dark, dress modestly in North India, and consider women-only train compartments on overnight journeys.

Most nationalities apply for India e-Visa online at indianvisaonline.gov.in ($25–$80 depending on nationality and duration). The e-Tourist Visa allows stays of 30, 90, or 180 days with double or multiple entry. Processing takes 3–7 business days. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel. Pakistani and some other nationalities require different visa categories — check the official website for your specific nationality.

The Golden Triangle is India's most popular tourist circuit: Delhi (2–3 days) → Agra (1–2 days, Taj Mahal) → Jaipur (2–3 days) → back to Delhi. Total: 6–8 days. It's easily doable by train (Delhi–Agra: 2 hours by Shatabdi Express $8–$15; Agra–Jaipur: 4 hours by train $5–$10) or by private car with driver ($80–$120/day). The Golden Triangle gives an excellent cross-section of Mughal, Rajput, and colonial Indian culture.

No — tap water in India is not safe to drink for most travelers. Always drink bottled water (₹20–$0.25/litre) or use a water filter/Steripen. Avoid ice in drinks at budget restaurants. Peel all raw fruit and vegetables or avoid them. Despite these precautions, many travelers experience stomach issues — carry oral rehydration salts and basic antibiotics prescribed by your doctor before departure.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (UNESCO World Heritage toy train) from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling is one of the world's great rail journeys ($7–$15). The Konkan Railway (Mumbai to Goa, 12 hours, $10–$20) runs through stunning coastal scenery. The Palace on Wheels ($600–$1,000/night, all-inclusive luxury train through Rajasthan) is India's most iconic luxury experience. For the Golden Triangle: Delhi–Agra Shatabdi Express (2 hours, $8–$15 second class) is the fastest and most scenic option.

Entry to the Taj Mahal complex costs $12 for foreign visitors (₹1,100). The Taj Mahal interior (the mausoleum itself) requires an additional ₹200 ($2.50). Add the Agra Fort ($7) for a full day in Agra. The Taj is most beautiful at sunrise — arrive 30 minutes before opening at 6am to beat the crowds and get the best light. Friday is closed. Book tickets online at asi.payumoney.com to skip the queue.