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India spans over 1.2 million square miles and is home to almost 1.5 billion people. A vacation in India offers breathtaking coastal landscapes, mesmerizing national parks, ancient temples, royal palaces, and deeply spiritual experiences.
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), and Indian Standard Time (IST) is 10.5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).
A cheap flight from the US to major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai typically takes around 14–16 hours. Non-stop flights to India are available through airlines such as Air India and United Airlines. Alternatively, airlines like Emirates offer flights to India with connections through Dubai, allowing you to combine your trip to India with a stopover in the UAE.
Here are some of India’s primary international airports for travelers:
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM)
Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR)
Goa International Airport (GOI)
Cochin International Airport (COK)
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU)
US citizens need a visa to visit India as a tourist. You can apply for an e-Visa at least four days before your departure. The e-Visa allows two entries, each lasting up to 60 days. For longer stays or other purposes, Americans must apply for a visa from an Indian embassy or consulate.
While no vaccinations are mandatory for direct flights to India from the US, several are recommended, including Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. If traveling from a country with a yellow fever outbreak, a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
India’s diverse geography gives it a variety of climates. The tropical south enjoys warm weather year-round, while the north experiences significant seasonal variations. Winter (December to February) in northern India can bring temperatures as low as 50°F, while summer (May to July) sees highs reaching 120°F in some areas.
India’s monsoon season plays a crucial role in its climate. The country experiences three distinct seasons: summer (March to May), monsoon (June to October), and winter (November to February). During the monsoon, heavy rains bring life to the parched land but can also disrupt travel plans.
The best time to visit India depends on the region:
Northern India and the West Coast: October to March, with dry, pleasant weather and temperatures around 82°F.
Southern India: December to February, when tropical heat is more manageable, with daytime temperatures averaging 86°F.
Himalayan Region: July is ideal for trekking, with comfortable temperatures of 77°F.
Delhi, India’s cultural and governmental hub, is a city where ancient history and modern life intertwine seamlessly. The historic Old City, adorned with colonial-era architecture, is home to India’s iconic landmark, the Red Fort, a masterpiece from the Mughal era constructed between 1639 and 1648. A visit to Delhi offers an immersive experience of daily life in India: the bustling chaos of people, livestock like sheep and cows, countless vehicles, rickshaw drivers, and street vendors weaving through the energetic streets.
Pirate Tip: Explore Delhi’s vibrant city center and the historic district of Old Delhi by rickshaw. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the colorful hustle and bustle around you.
Mumbai, a city where towering skyscrapers coexist with historic neighborhoods, offers an electric mix of cultures and modernity. It’s home to landmarks like the Gateway of India, a striking arch built from yellow basalt, and the serene
Hanging Gardens on Malabar Hill. With its bustling population and fascinating blend of old and new, Mumbai is an exhilarating city to explore.
Rajasthan, India’s largest state, is a land of captivating contrasts. Its capital, Jaipur, boasts stunning temples, palaces, and a vibrant pink-hued Old City. Rajasthan is also known for its breathtaking natural landscapes.
Experience the wild beauty of the Thar Desert or embark on a tiger safari at Ranthambore National Park, where you might catch a glimpse of the majestic Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.
Once a haven for hippies and wanderers, Goa has evolved into a popular tourist destination. Its pristine beaches and charming towns are heavily influenced by European culture and attract visitors from around the world. The capital city, Panaji, showcases remnants of Portuguese colonialism, while Old Goa is renowned for its magnificent churches and cathedrals.
India is a treasure trove of landmarks and experiences. Depending on your itinerary, don’t miss these unforgettable highlights:
Taj Mahal, Agra: This iconic “Palace of Love” is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Red Fort, Agra: A stunning complex of palaces and gardens within its fortified walls—not to be confused with the Red Fort in Delhi.
Gateway of India, Mumbai: This grand triumphal arch is also the departure point for ferries to Elephanta Island.
Itmad-ud-Daulah Mausoleum: Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” this smaller but equally stunning mausoleum is just a short distance from the Taj Mahal.
Fatehpur Sikri: Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, this historic complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jaipur, the “Pink City”: Explore its vibrant architecture, including the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), Jal Mahal (Water Palace), and the majestic Amber Fort.
Jodhpur, the “Blue City”: Famous for its indigo-colored houses, Jodhpur is also home to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort.
Varanasi: Known as the spiritual heart of Hinduism, this sacred city offers an intense and deeply spiritual experience where death and life coexist in striking proximity.
Jaisalmer, the “Golden City”: Its sand-colored architecture glows under the sun, making it a perfect starting point for desert tours.
Mumbai: Beyond its iconic landmarks, this cultural and economic hub offers highlights like the Elephanta Caves, Kanheri Caves, and the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple.
Not every trip to India needs to revolve around urban adventures or wild landscapes. For a relaxing escape, unwind on some of the country’s most beautiful beaches:
Goa: With over 60 miles of coastline, Goa’s golden beaches and laid-back vibe are perfect for soaking up the sun.
Andaman Islands: These 300 idyllic islands are a hidden gem, offering pristine, uncrowded beaches.
Nicobar Islands: Part of the same archipelago as the Andamans, these islands are ideal for swimming, diving, and relaxing.
Kovalam: Located about 8 miles south of Trivandrum, Kovalam’s crescent-shaped coastline features two stunning beaches — Lighthouse Beach and Hawah Beach — separated by a rocky promontory.
Mahabalipuram: Combine cultural exploration with beachside relaxation at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient temples meet tropical sands.
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