India Destination

India Tours & Holidays | India Travel Guide & Tips

India is one of the most ancient countries having old civilizations in the world. India is rich in its culture and history. India is one of the 7 largest countries in the world. India is bounded by The great Himalayas in the north, the Indian Ocean in the east to south, and the Arabic Ocean in the west part. India is one-third of the country of the USA and has the world's 2nd highest population after China.


Nature

India has varied climates a zone from the Himalayas to the sea level. So having a unique landscape India provides varieties of flora and fauna. India is the land of the different types of birds and animals. It has about 65000 animals and bird species and 12,000 types of flower plants.


People and Cultures

Almost 81 % of Indians are Hindu, 13 % Muslim, and other Buddhism, Sikhism, Christian, and Jainism. There is a caste system in India that determines the social rank norms and values. The cat system is determined by the marriage and birth system. High caste people were Priests, and big landowners, and others were minor and lower castes.


History

The civilization of India was about 5000 years ago on the Indus River place called Indus civilization is now in Pakistan. About 1700 B.C. Aryan people had arrived in India from the Caspian Sea and they spoke the Sanskrit language. Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages in the world. The Vedic scriptures were written during the Aryan reign on the basis of the Hindu religion.


Next, about 200 years GUPTA EMPIRE ruled in India about 4 century A.D. However, arts, architecture, and science were rising during this time. During this time Indian astronomer Aryabhatta announced the Earth was around the sun it was the longest period the world accepted the truth till the Gallielo period.


In the 16 century Muslims forced a Mongol leader and expand the Mughal Empire. The Mughal ruling period was the golden period in the history of art architecture and literature about 1500 to 1700 A.D. During the Mughal empire, they built roads, temples even the Taj Mahal.


Likewise, in the 14 century Europeans arrived in India and started to set up many trading companies. In 1757 Britain colonized most of the country of the world. During the mid-18th and 19th centuries, the British ruled in India too. Later in 1920 Mahatma Gandhi began protests against the British and India gained independence in 1947.


Government and Economy

India has had a parliamentary government system since 1947 after independence. Congress is the major leading party in India and the Nehru family has led the politics in India for decades. There is the fastest-growing economy, education, and technology in the world.


Facts and the figure of India

President- Pranab Mukherjee (2012)

Prime Minister- Narendra Modi (2014)

Land area - 1147949 sq. miles (2973190 sq.)

Population- 1,236,344,631

Largest cities of India – Mumbai 19 million, Kolkata 14 million, Chennai 9 million, Bangalore 9 million, Hyderabad 8 million

Major languages of India – Hindi 41%, Bengali 9%, Telugu 6%, Urdu 5%, Gujarati 6 %, Kannada 4% Malayalam 3%, Oriya 3%, Panjabi 3%Assamese, 2%, Maithili 1%, other 6 %. However, English is spoken as an official and Hindi is widely spoken too. Race- Indo Aryan 72 %, Dravidian 25%, Mongoloid and other mixed 3% according to the data collection 2000 ) Religious – Hindu 81 %, Muslim 13% Christian 2%, Sikh 2 %, others 2 % Literacy rate – 63 %

Browse Trips and Tours Around Nepal

India Travel Guide

India is one of the countries having the oldest civilizations in the world. India is rich in its culture and history. India is one of the 7 largest countries in the world. India is bounded by the Great Himalayas in the north, the Indian Ocean in the east to south, and the Arabic Ocean in the west part. India is one-third of the country of the USA and has the world's 2nd highest population after China.


India Visa System

The Indian government updated e-visa rules for foreign nationalities. Visitors visiting India can get an Indian visa from an Indian diplomatic mission or they can also, obtain an e-visa online.


For more info, you can visit here regarding Indian visa- https://www.mha.gov.in/


Best time to visit India

The best time to visit India is between October and March. Where the weather looks clear, warm, sunny, and beautiful. June to September is the monsoon season in India. India has mainly 4 seasons – Spring season next summer Season - Summer season runs from June to October where monsoon runs.

Visit Taj Mahal in Agra

The most iconic in India -the Taj Mahal is a must-visit site for any traveler to India. The pristine white monument was constructed in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal after she died during childbirth. The Taj Mahal is not only a famous visiting site in India, it is also one of the great wonders in the World. The symmetrical white exterior is surrounded by lush gardens and reflective pools making it one of the most remarkable sites. 


The Taj Mahal is circumscribed by a small mosque and a museum that exhibits the original Mughal ancient artifacts, artworks, and other pieces. If you want to visit the Taj Mahal, try arriving during the time of sunrise, when the building takes on a lavender-gold hue, and you can photograph it in all its glory without the crowds. Visiting India is a great way to enjoy a fabulous experience without worrying about finding accommodations, getting transportation, or organizing transportation. 

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Trekking in the Himalayas

Trekking is the most adventurous activity to refresh the mind, body, and soul in the lap of the Himalayas.  Along India's northern borders sharing with India, Pakistan, China, Nepal, and Bhutan, the Great Himalayas stretches that offer fantastic trekking opportunities. From easy day hikes to demanding multiday hikes, the Indian Himalayas feature high passes, rugged trails, and panoramic views of the stunning landscapes and splendid Himalayas. 


Some recommended treks:

Hampta Pass Trek

Considered one of the easiest and most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh, the Hampta Pass trek offers snow-capped mountains, unpolluted scenery, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The trek passes through scenic landscapes, open pastures, and different glacial valleys, and presents a perfect Himalayan excursion. 


Markha Valley Trek

Markha Valley trek is a trek in the desert valley with Ladakh and Zanskar ranges as the background. It is a popular tea house trekking that takes you into the attractive Hemis National Park and crosses through rivers, Buddhist villages, and rocky canyons.


Note: May to September is considered the best time to attempt these treks when the weather is dry and the temperatures are pleasant. 

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Explore Temples

Being the part of the oldest civilizations in the world, India is a land of rich history, countless beliefs, cultures, traditions, and legends surrounding the religions. It is also the birthplace of religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Hinduism is believed to be the world's oldest religion and this religion doesn't have a founder like other religions. Various ancient manuscripts and scholars explain that religion is a traditional way of living. 


India is known for its religious significance and its temples. You will find attractive temples almost every 3 kilometers within the city. Temples are the holy home of gods, where people go to pay their respects and honors to their deity every day. Every temple in India holds a unique history and legends that boasts fascinating architecture which are a prominent part of India's heritage. 


Some of the most popular and must-visit temples in India are Badrinath Temple, Kedarnath Temple, Gangotri Temple, Shree Jagannath Temple, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Golden Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Somnath Temple, Sanchi Stupa, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Lakshminarayan Temple, Ranakpur Temple, Virupaksha Temple, and Mukteshwora Temple.  

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Participate in Festivals

The vivid and sparkling festivals in India exhibit the heart of India's culture, traditions, religion, and spirit. There are numerous festivals in India celebrated among various communities and religious groups. Indians celebrate the festivals with great enthusiasm and devotion. 


The majority of festivals are celebrated to worship the gods and goddesses, saints and prophets, and to welcome the new seasons. Immersing in one of these festivals, you'll see the true vitality of India's heart and soul. Every religious festival celebrated in India has some mythological stories 

that are being passed on to different generations so that the congruity of celebrating festivals can be understood and the traditions are followed in the upcoming generation. 


All the festivals in India are celebrated gloriously with a mix of lights, colors, decorations, dance, music, and delicious food. At some festivals, you'll see people singing, dancing, and celebrating. Experience at least one of these festivals during your trip to India. The festivals are Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, Nawaratri and Durga Pooja, Krishnajanmastami, Onam, Ganesh Chaturthi, Mahashivaratri, Eid-Ul-Fitr, Lakshmi Pooja, Govardan pooja, and Chhoti Diwali. 

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Camel Safari

The Camel Safari is one of the best and most unique ways to explore arid deserts and camp under the stars at the end of the day. The ride will take you across some of the most traveled and popular deserts in India. Camel Safari is nothing less than a thrilling, exciting, and fabulous way to get a taste of rural desert life as well as enchanting the local culture of Rajasthan.


The camels are considered the ship of deserts and India offers Ladakh, Jammu Kashmir, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Mandawa, and Pushkar as major places for a Camel ride.

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Admire Ajanta Cave

The Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1983 take you to the ancient world. It is famous for its ancient art and intricate Buddhist monuments cut into the rock roughly around 2,200 years ago. The 30 caves of Ajanta featured temple architecture and masterpieces of Buddhist religious including the deities and the rebirths of the Buddha.

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Ride Toy Train in Darjeeling

The hill station of Darjeeling located in West Bengal draws rail enthusiasts from around the world with its famous ‘toy train' in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The train has been riding on this antique steam for around 140 years. The two-hour journey between Darjeeling and Ghum is considered to be one of the most scenic and beautiful train rides worldwide. The train rides offer incredible views of the towering mountains and lush forests covered in fog as the train zigzags on the narrow tracks.

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Kathmandu

The Kathmandu Valley, together with Patan to the south and Bhaktapur, features 7 out of 10 UNESCO world heritage sites in Nepal. It's no surprise that Kathmandu is known as one of the most historical cities worldwide. Hundreds of temples, shrines, and stupas can be found in Kathmandu, the capital city, earning it the nickname "the city of temples". As a cultural hub, Nepal's capital offers a distinctive experience that you won't want to miss. The city's chaos of sounds smells, and action characterizes it, providing a unique side of Nepal to explore. The Durbar square, dating back to the third century, is where the city's kings were crowned and legitimized and is enclosed by courtyards and temples. If you're planning a visit to the Kathmandu Valley, you'll find plenty of things to do and see.

City of Temples

In Kathmandu, you'll witness temples in the vibrant street every 15 to 20 minutes of walk as there are more than 2,000 temples in Kathmandu that hold ancient spirituality and historical architectural significance. 

Densest Concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Hike in the hills 

Nepal's Kathmandu Valley possesses the sense concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and stunning hillside hikes offering a unique blend of cultural treasures and natural beauty in one unforgettable experience. 

Explore the Narayanhiti Palace Museum 

The Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Kathmandu offers a unique gesture into the country's royal history, featuring opulent rooms, artifacts, and exhibits that shed light on Nepal's monarchy and transformation into a federal democratic republic. 

Explore Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanical Garden Godawari, located near Kathmandu, is a tranquil oasis where lush gardens, exotic plant species, and scenic trails invite visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Nepal. 

Enjoy Birds-eye view of Kathmandu from Swayambhunath Stupa

Savor the breathtaking bird's eye view of Kathmandu Valley from the top of Swayambhunath Stupa which is nestled amidst the lush hills. 

Evening Aarati at Pashupatinath

The evening Aarati at Pashupatinath Temple is an alluring and deeply spiritual ceremony where Hindu priests offer prayers, incense, and oil lamps to lord Shiva, creating a mesmerizing and sacred atmosphere along the banks of the Bagmati River. 

Thamel - A hub for tourists

Thamel is a major tourist-centric point in Kathmandu which is renowned for its vibrant street life, diverse shopping, and lively nightlife, making it a hub for travelers from around the world.

Kathmandu is a gateway to Nepal's diverse attractions and its rich heritage and spirituality make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this Beautiful country.  

Trekking in Nepal

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Trekking in Nepal

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Pokhara

Situated in the serene lap of the Annapurna Himalayas, Pokhara is a picturesque paradise in Nepal. Its breathtaking beauty is showcased by the tranquil Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy boating and soak in the mountain reflections. Adventure gestures with paragliding, trekking, and exploring mystical caves like Gupteshwor is a fascinating experience for every traveler. You can witness the dramatic Seti River Gorge, and Devi's Fall, a mesmerizing waterfall. Pokhara's vibrant Lakeside area offers an abundance of restaurants, shops, and accommodations, while World Peace Pagoda provides panoramic views. This tranquil city is the gateway to renowned treks like the Annapurna Circuit, offering a harmonious mixture of relaxation and adventure. 

Places to visit around Pokhara

Lakes: Phewa, Beganash & 5 other small lakes

Temples: Bindabashini/Gupteshor

Caves: Mahendra, Gupteshor, Bat Cave

Museums: International Mountain Museum, Gorkha Museum

View Points: Sarangkot, World Peace Pogoda, Rupakot, Australian Camp

Some Popular trekking starts from Pokhara
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trekking
  • Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking (Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek)
  • Upper Mustang Trekking
  • Mardi Himal Trekking
  • Mohare Danda Trek
  • Khopra Trek
Peak Climbing/ Expedition starts from Pokhara

Pisang Peak Climbing

Thorong Peak Climbing

Things/Activities to do around Pokhara
  • Trekking/Hiking
  • Rafting
  • Boating
  • Paragliding
  • Mountain Biking
  • Peak Climbing/Expedition
  • Touring
  • Bungy Jump
  • Zip Flying
  • Ultra-Light Flight / Helicopter Tour
Sagarmatha National Park (Mount Everest Region)

Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal, is a breathtaking natural wonderland nestled in the Himalayas. Home to the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, it offers an unparalleled opportunity for adventure and exploration. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush rhododendron forests to rugged alpine terrain. Trekkers flock here to embark on iconic journeys like the Everest Base Camp Trek, where they traverse charming Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges, and witness awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Sagarmatha National Park is not only a sanctuary for rare wildlife but also a place where the indomitable human spirit meets the majesty of the Earth's tallest peaks, creating an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

CSome Popular Trekking Trips of Sagarmatha National Park (Mount Everest Region)
Popular Climbing & Expedition of Sagarmatha National Park (Mount Everest Region)

Trekking in Nepal

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Trekking in Nepal

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Annapurna Conservation Area (Mount Annapurna Region)

The Annapurna Conservation Area, situated in the western Himalayas of Nepal, is a breathtaking natural paradise encompassing diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Towering peaks, including the iconic Annapurna Range and Machapuchare, offer trekking enthusiasts some of the world's most sought-after trails. Amidst lush forests and pristine rivers, this protected area showcases unique biodiversity, with endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda calling it home. Travelers can explore traditional Gurung and Manang villages, immerse in local culture, and savor authentic cuisine. With its awe-inspiring scenery and sustainable tourism practices, the Annapurna Conservation Area fills you with an unforgettable adventure while preserving its ecological integrity.

Annapurna region includes one of the world's highest lakes, Tilicho Lake. Likewise, there is another founded lake, known as Ice Lake.

Places to visit in the Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Annapurna Base Camp
  • Mustang, Manang
  • Muktinath
  • Ghale Gaun 
Lakes
  • Tilicho
  • Ice Lake
  • Gangapurna
  • Dhumba
  • Damodar Kunda

FAQ List

The official language in India is Hindi. Besides this, English is the second most spoken language in India. 

The currency of India is Indian Rupee. 

All foreign travelers except the citizens of neighboring nations of Bhutan, Maldives, and Nepal need a visa to travel to India. Nationals of Japan and South Korea can obtain visas on arrival while everyone else has to apply for a visa before arriving in India. There is also a facility to apply 60-day-stress-free Visa for citizens of more than 150 countries. You can also apply for an Indian Visa online.

India is the world's seventh-largest country with unlimited cultural experiences, vibrant festivals, historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and plenty of adventure activities. Here are some reasons for visiting India:

To interact with the friendly local people of India and enjoy their good hospitality

To taste the mouth-watering food in India

To immerse in the exquisite beauty of the Taj Mahal, one of the seven great wonders in the world

To explore Varanasi, the oldest city of India on the banks of the holy Ganga River

To witness the religious commotion and spirituality

To visit the numerous rock sculptures, archaeological sites, and the monolith statues

To participate and enjoy the colorful festivals

To trek in the northern Himalayas of India

To enjoy the tiger safari in the reserved areas

Visitors require the following travel documents for visiting India:

A passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date to India

A Visa except for the nationals of Bhutan, Maldives, and Nepal

A recent passport-size photograph (2*2 size)

Proof of residence

There is good access to the Internet in most of the places in India. WiFi is available at almost all the restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and Malls. However, internet service may not be available in remote villages in India. 

Drinking tap water directly may not be safe so it is strongly not recommended to use a water purifier before drinking. You can also purchase bottled mineral water which is safe for drinking. 

India is rich in cultural heritage and the people of India celebrate many festivals however Diwali and Holi are the major festivals in India. Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated annually for 5 days either in October or in November. Holi, the festival of colors is celebrated annually in March after the full moon. 

India is a diverse country that will offer you delicious and delightful cuisines. While in India, we strongly recommend you try traditional Indian cuisines which are Naan/Paratha, Indian Thali, Malai Kofta, Dal Makhani, Butter chicken or Butter Paneer, Fish curry, Hyderabadi Biryani, Samosa and Kachori, Idly Sambar, Dhokla, Tandoori meat and vegetables, Chaat Masala, Chhole Bhature, Dahi Vada, Masala Dosa, Uttapam, Kathi Roll, Tandoori Roti, Kadai meat or Kadai Paneer, and sweets like Rasmalai, Jalebi, Rasgulla, Gulab Jamun, Barfi, and Rabdi. 

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