India

Travel Guide
Gateway of India showing heritage architecture
Fall under the spell of this vast, intoxicating country, which promises enchanting palaces, meandering rivers, imposing forts, dynamic cities and exotic spicy foods.

From the palm-fringed beach resorts of Goa to the sprawling Bollywood city of Mumbai, India offers a broad spectrum of experiences. Visit the colored palaces of Jaipur, the leafy tea plantations of Darjeeling and the thousands of temples in the river city of Varanasi.

Glimpses of India’s colorful history under the rule of the French, British, Portuguese and Dutch can be seen throughout the country, with the cities such as Kolkata, Kochi and Pondicherry all endowed with impressive colonial architecture. Admire ornate forts, temples and palaces in every corner of the country to truly appreciate India’s diverse appeal.

India’s most famous monument is the Taj Mahal, a colossal mausoleum built by a Mughal emperor in the 17th century as a shrine to his favorite wife. Avoid the midday heat and come in the morning instead, when the complex is bathed in an attractive pinkish light. Another notable monument is Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, the first ever garden-tomb built on the Indian subcontinent.

For a fast-paced adventure ride, try whitewater rafting down the Ganges River. Book an organized trip during spring or summer and camp on the shores of the river.

Around 7 miles (11 kilometers) from Jaipur sits the Amer Fort, one of the most famous forts of Rajasthan. Marvel at the magnificent Sun Gate and the so-called “magic flower,” a fresco carved out of marble.

Head to Harmandir Sahib, a shining gold Sikh temple jutting out into a serene pool in Amritsar. This temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sikhs and has been rebuilt several times since it was first constructed in 1604.

Two main airports service India: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, although many other smaller airports run domestic flights. Make use of India’s many public transportation options, which include buses, trains, jeeps and rickshaws, although be aware that schedules are rarely adhered to.

Let yourself be consumed by the sights, sounds and smells of this exhilarating country.

Popular cities in India

Mumbai which includes general coastal views, boating and a sandy beach
Mumbai
Known for Shopping, Business and Cafes
Prepare your senses for India’s entertainment and commercial center, where Bollywood films are made and East and West cultures come together in an exotic blend.

Reasons to visit

  • Gateway of India
  • Crawford Market
  • Juhu Beach
Presidential Palace featuring a square or plaza and a castle
Delhi
Known for Shopping, Historical and Culture
Welcome to New Delhi, the vibrant heart of India, where a rich cultural fabric includes markets, spiritual temples and architecture that blends a mix of historic styles.

Reasons to visit

  • Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
  • Humayun's Tomb
  • Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
Chennai featuring a city
Chennai
Known for Shopping, Business and Temples
Temples and colonial monuments, food and festivals combine to showcase the best of South India’s artistic and religious heritage.

Reasons to visit

  • Anna Salai
  • Pondy Bazaar
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple
New Market featuring a city and street scenes
Kolkata
Known for Monuments, Culture and Museums
The former capital of the British Raj is a friendly city blessed with architectural diversity, festivals and an eclectic cuisine.

Reasons to visit

  • New Market
  • Nicco Park
  • New Town Eco Park
Charminar which includes a square or plaza, a mosque and street scenes
Hyderabad
Known for Business, Lakes and Museums
The capital of the Andhra Pradesh state is famous for its mosques, palaces and an abandoned fort.

Reasons to visit

  • Charminar
  • Golconda Fort
  • Hussain Sagar Lake
Bangalore Palace which includes heritage elements, a castle and heritage architecture
Bengaluru
Known for Business, Shopping and Cafes
India’s Garden City is famous for its public parks, colonial-era architecture, bustling bazaars and heritage museums.

Reasons to visit

  • Church Street
  • Bangalore Palace

Popular places to visit

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