India travel guide: Everything U.S. travellers need to know before visiting

Plan the perfect India trip from the USA with our 2025 India travel guide—visa steps, best times to visit, sample itineraries & safety tips.

India doesn’t just offer a vacation—it offers a transformation. A land of contrasts and coexisting realities, where the ancient and the avant-garde dance together through every alleyway, mountain path, beach breeze, and sacred riverbank. For U.S. travellers, India promises wonder, introspection, and moments that become stories for life.

Imagine sipping chai in the shade of ancient palaces, tracing your fingers across temple carvings older than memory, and watching dawn rise over snow-tipped Himalayas or tea-carpeted hills. Picture drifting through Kerala’s backwaters, losing track of time in Goa’s golden sands, and finding stories hidden in the lantern-lit lanes of Kolkata. From sacred rivers to spice markets, every mile here feels like stepping into another story—and the next chapter is yours to write.

Planning your first visit? We’ve curated this comprehensive guide to answer the burning questions: Is India safe? Where should I go? How do visas work? What should I pack? We have laid out all the info.

Jump to Sections:

Why travel to India
Visa and entry requirements for US citizens
Top travel routes and sample itineraries
When to visit India
How to get around India
Budgeting for your India trip
Safety etiquette and cultural awareness
What to pack
Plan your custom India tour
Frequently asked questions

Why travel to India in 2025?

India travel guide: Everything U.S. travellers need to know before visiting

A land of unmatched contrasts and connection

India is not just a country—it’s an experience that defies easy definition. In 2025, India continues to rise as one of the most enriching travel destinations for global explorers, especially from the United States. Whether you’re seeking soulful retreats, adrenaline-fueled adventures, or cultural immersion, India offers something intensely personal for every type of traveller.

Imagine starting your day with a sunrise boat ride along the holy Ganges, walking through centuries-old temples still alive with rituals, or sipping spiced tea on a rooftop overlooking Mughal forts and bustling bazaars. India is the only place where you can go from snow-laden mountains to tropical beaches in one trip, meditate in an ashram, and later witness a Bollywood dance show—all within a few days.

Top reasons to visit India:

Spiritual depth and healing traditions: With yoga ashrams in Rishikesh, Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh, and Ayurvedic wellness in Kerala, India offers a profound spiritual and holistic wellness ecosystem that few destinations can match.
Living history and architectural marvels: Step inside towering temples, Mughal-era palaces, ancient stepwells, and colonial buildings still echoing with the past.
A culinary kaleidoscope: India’s food scene is wildly diverse. From the fiery chaats of Delhi to the coastal seafood feasts of Kerala, food here is not just a meal—it’s a journey.
Festivals that ignite the senses: Diwali lights up cities, Holi splashes them in color, and countless local fairs bring villages alive with music, crafts, and tradition.

Why U.S. travellers are loving India right now:

Direct flights to major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru make travel more seamless.
The affordability factor—luxury travel in India often costs the same as mid-range elsewhere.
English is widely spoken, easing communication for first-timers.
Solo and slow travel trends have found a natural home in India’s diverse landscapes and soul-soothing rhythms.

India is not just a destination you visit—it’s a destination that transforms you, often in ways you didn’t know you were seeking. It lingers, it challenges, it comforts. And it leaves you yearning to return.

Visa & entry requirements for U.S. citizens

How to apply for an Indian e-tourist visa (2025 update)

Visit: Indian Visa Portal
Documents needed: Passport (6+ months validity), recent photograph, travel details.
Processing time: Usually 3-5 working days.
Cost: Around $25-$80 depending on duration (30/90/180 days).
Stay limit: Up to 180 days per visit.

Health declarations, vaccines & arrival documents

Vaccinations recommended by CDC: Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tetanus, rabies (for longer stays).
Arrival process: Fill out the Air Suvidha form (if required), show visa and vaccination proof at immigration.
Keep a printed itinerary, return tickets, and hotel details ready.

Top travel routes & sample itineraries

Planning a trip to India can feel overwhelming, but if you align your route with your travel personality, every moment becomes magic. Here’s how to explore India in curated travel circuits:

Here’s a quick-glance table summarizing the top recommended routes across India for different experiences:

Route Name	Key Stops	Best For	Duration
Golden Triangle Extended	Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Udaipur – Orchha – Khajuraho – Amritsar	History, architecture, iconic cities	10–14 days
South India Cultural Loop	Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Madurai – Kochi – Alleppey – Munnar	Temples, Ayurveda, backwaters	10–14 days
Himalayan Escape	Rishikesh – Dharamshala – Manali – Leh – Nubra – Pangong	Spiritual retreats, slow travel	12–16 days
East India Discovery	Kolkata – Shantiniketan – Darjeeling – Sundarbans	Culture, tea estates, heritage trails	7–10 days
North East India Immersion	Guwahati – Shillong – Cherrapunji – Majuli – Kohima	Tribal culture, nature, offbeat trails	10–14 days
Goa and West Coast Beaches	Goa – Gokarna – Hampi – Udupi – Kochi	Beaches, ruins, laid-back vibes	7–12 days

The golden triangle & beyond (Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Orchha – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Amritsar)

Route: Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Orchha – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Amritsar
Ideal duration: 12–16 days
Who it’s for: Culture seekers, history buffs, first-timers

Highlights:

Delhi: Walk through the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, visit Humayun’s Tomb, and watch the flag ceremony at India Gate.
Agra: Behold the majestic Taj Mahal and explore the red sandstone Agra Fort.
Jaipur: Explore Amber Fort, City Palace, and shop at local bazaars for textiles and jewelry.
Ranthambore: Take a tiger safari at one of India’s best wildlife reserves.
Orchha: A hidden architectural gem with riverside palaces and ancient temples.
Khajuraho: Discover the UNESCO-listed erotic temples, renowned for their intricate carvings and symbolism.
Varanasi: Witness how life and death coexist on the ghats of the Ganges; a sunrise boat ride is unmissable.
Amritsar: Visit the Golden Temple, one of Sikhism’s holiest sites, and experience the border ceremony at Wagah.

Tip: Time your visit to Varanasi with the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat—it’s one of the most surreal spiritual sights on earth.

This expanded Golden Triangle is a whirlwind of architecture, spiritual discovery, and immersive storytelling—it’s a full-bodied introduction to India’s soul.

The South India soul trail (Kerala – Tamil Nadu – Pondicherry)

Route: Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Madurai – Thanjavur – Pondicherry – Chennai
Ideal duration: 12–15 days
Who it’s for: Culture seekers, spiritual travellers, wellness lovers

Highlights:

Kochi: Start with heritage walks in Fort Kochi, where colonial and local cultures blend seamlessly.
Munnar: Wake up to mist-covered tea gardens and go trekking through the Western Ghats.
Thekkady: Spot elephants, bison, and birds in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy a traditional spice plantation visit.
Alleppey: Cruise the backwaters in a houseboat, complete with Kerala meals and serene views.
Madurai: Explore Meenakshi Temple’s stunning Dravidian architecture and attend an evening puja.
Thanjavur: Visit ancient Brihadeeswara Temple and explore the roots of classical Indian dance and music.
Pondicherry: Embrace the slow life with French cafes, quiet beaches, and a visit to the experimental township of Auroville.
Chennai: Cap it off with museums, Marina Beach, and vibrant Tamil culture.

Tip: Book an Ayurvedic retreat with daily massages and satvik meals in Thekkady or the backwaters.

The Himalayan escape (Ladakh – Himachal Pradesh – Rishikesh)

Route: Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Lake – Spiti Valley – Manali – Rishikesh
Ideal duration: 14–20 days
Who it’s for: Adventure travellers, wellness seekers, spiritual nomads

Highlights:

Leh & Nubra: Acclimatize amidst prayer flags and visit centuries-old monasteries; ride double-humped camels in high-altitude deserts.
Pangong Lake: Camp beside the ever-changing blue lake under a million stars.
Spiti Valley: Discover one of India’s most remote and mystical valleys; visit Key Monastery and ride through lunar landscapes.
Manali: Paraglide, hike, or simply relax with views of the Himalayas.
Rishikesh: End with yoga, river rafting, Ganga aarti, and holistic wellness in India’s spiritual heartland.

Tip: Don’t skip the meditation cave experience or sunrise yoga on the banks of the Ganga.

India’s coastal & island escapes (Goa – Gokarna – Varkala – Andaman Islands)

Route: Goa – Gokarna – Varkala – Havelock Island (Andamans)
Ideal duration: 10–14 days
Who it’s for: Beach lovers, boho backpackers, yoga practitioners, scuba divers

Highlights:

Goa: Live the tropical life—North Goa for beach parties and markets; South Goa for luxury and serenity.
Gokarna: A laid-back alternative to Goa, ideal for yoga, trekking, and beach camping.
Varkala: Stunning cliffside beaches with vibrant cafes and Ayurvedic retreats.
Andaman Islands: Dive in crystal-clear waters at Havelock and relax on postcard-perfect beaches.

Tip: Book your scuba slot early—Havelock’s coral gardens and shipwreck dives are world-class.

East India discovery (Kolkata – Darjeeling – Sikkim)

Route: Kolkata – Darjeeling – Gangtok – Pelling
Ideal duration: 10–14 days
Who it’s for: Heritage lovers, tea connoisseurs, photographers, seekers of slower and deeper travel

Highlights:

Kolkata: Dive into India’s intellectual and cultural capital—art galleries, coffee houses, colonial buildings, tram rides, and Bengali cuisine.
Darjeeling: Ride the UNESCO toy train, sip world-famous Darjeeling tea, watch sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill, and explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.
Gangtok: Explore monasteries like Rumtek, enjoy cable car rides, and soak in the scenic beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.
Pelling: Visit sacred lakes, ancient monasteries like Pemayangtse, and gaze at snow peaks from tranquil hill viewpoints.

Tip: Visit a Darjeeling tea estate during plucking season for an immersive tea-tasting and plantation walk experience.

North east India immersion (Assam – Meghalaya – Nagaland)

Route: Guwahati – Kaziranga National Park – Shillong – Cherrapunji – Mawlynnong – Kohima
Ideal duration: 12–15 days
Who it’s for: Offbeat travellers, nature lovers, cultural explorers

Highlights:

Guwahati: Start your journey with a Brahmaputra River cruise and a visit to the sacred Kamakhya Temple.
Kaziranga: Spot one-horned rhinos, elephants, and migratory birds in this UNESCO World Heritage wildlife park.
Shillong: Explore the charming capital with British-era architecture, cafes, and rock music culture.
Cherrapunji: Hike to living root bridges, waterfalls, and the Mawsmai caves in one of the world’s rainiest places.
Mawlynnong: Visit the “cleanest village in Asia,” known for its eco-consciousness and bamboo watchtowers.
Kohima: Immerse yourself in Naga tribal heritage, war memorials, and if you time it right—the vibrant Hornbill Festival.

Tip: Plan your trip around early December to experience the Hornbill Festival, often called the “festival of festivals” in India’s northeast.

Let the journey find you

Incredible India isn’t meant to be browsed—it’s meant to be lived. The temples, trails, teas, and tales await.

When to visit India: Weather, festivals & tourist seasons

India’s vast geography means there’s always a place worth visiting, regardless of the season. However, when and where you travel can significantly shape your experience.

Month-wise breakdown: north vs. south

November to March: Best time for North India (Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra, Varanasi, Himachal). Cool, pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing.
April to June: Ideal for Himalayan regions like Ladakh, Sikkim, Spiti Valley. Dry and accessible.
July to September: Monsoon transforms South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu) into a lush, green paradise. Great for Ayurvedic treatments and fewer crowds.
October to March: Best for South India’s coastlines (Goa, Gokarna, Pondicherry) and cultural cities (Madurai, Thanjavur).

Best times for key travel interests

Spiritual tourism: October–March is ideal for visiting Rishikesh, Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, and monasteries in Ladakh or Sikkim.
Wildlife safaris: November–May is best for Ranthambore, Kaziranga, Jim Corbett, and Bandhavgarh.
Beaches: Goa and the Andamans shine from November to February.

Festivals to plan around

Diwali (October/November): The festival of lights is celebrated nationwide—Jaipur and Varanasi are particularly magical.
Holi (March): North India bursts into color. Mathura, Vrindavan, and Jaipur host the most vibrant celebrations.
Onam (August/September): Kerala’s most important festival—expect flower carpets, boat races, and traditional feasts.
Durga Puja (September/October): Best experienced in Kolkata, with processions, street food, and vibrant artistry.

How to get around India

Navigating India is part of the adventure. Options range from ultra-affordable to supremely comfortable, depending on your travel style.

Popular modes of transport

Flights: India’s domestic flight network is vast and budget-friendly. Ideal for covering long distances quickly.
Trains (IRCTC): A classic Indian experience. Choose AC classes for comfort, or try short daytime journeys for local flavor.
Taxis and autos: Prepaid cabs at airports are reliable. In cities, use Ola or Uber for fair pricing.
Local transport: Rickshaws, metros (Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru), and buses make short-distance travel efficient and colorful.

Safety & travel apps

Recommended apps: IRCTC Rail Connect (train bookings), Rome2Rio (routes), Google Translate, Gaia gps.
Keep cash handy for rural areas. For solo travellers, avoid night trains unless in AC coaches.

Budgeting for your India trip from the USA

India offers incredible value at every level. Whether you’re backpacking or going luxe, your dollar stretches further here.

Basic cost breakdown (per day)

Budget travel: $30–$50 (guesthouses, trains, street food)
Mid-range: $60–$100 (3-star hotels, guided tours, local flights)
Luxury: $150+ (heritage stays, fine dining, private chauffeurs)

Sample costs

Roundtrip flights (USA to India): $900–$1,300
Meals: $2–$20 depending on where you eat
Taj Mahal entry (foreigners): ~$15
City taxi ride: ~$3–$10

Tips & money matters

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Common range: 5–10% in restaurants.
Use ATMs in urban centers; carry some small denominations in cash for local vendors.
Currency exchange is best at airports, authorized dealers, or via forex cards.

Safety, travel etiquette and cultural awareness

India is generally safe for travellers, but like anywhere, it pays to be prepared and culturally sensitive.

Travel tips for safety & respect

Solo women travellers: Stick to well-reviewed hotels, travel during daylight, and wear culturally modest clothing.
Dress codes: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and religious sites.
Photos: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or sacred areas.

Common scams to avoid

“Closed hotel” or “fake ticket office” tricks—always verify yourself.
Overcharging taxis: Use meters or pre-book through apps.
Over-friendly strangers offering unsolicited help—politely decline if unsure.

Useful info

Travel insurance: Highly recommended for health, theft, and trip disruptions.
Emergency numbers: 112 (national emergency), 100 (police), 102 (ambulance)
U.S. embassy in India: newdelhi.usembassy.gov

What to pack for India: Smart packing list for U.S. tourists

Packing smart means thinking regionally, seasonally, and culturally.

Essentials by season

Winter (Nov–Feb): Light jacket, shawl/scarf, socks (north can be chilly)
Summer (Mar–Jun): Loose cotton clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Raincoat or poncho, waterproof shoes, mosquito repellent

Safety & travel gear

Portable charger & power bank
International plug adapter (India uses type C, D, and M)
Travel-size toiletries, small medical kit, menstrual hygiene products

Documents & offline backups

Passport, visa (print and digital copies)
Flight tickets and hotel confirmations
Offline Google Maps, translation phrasebook

Your India story begins here

India isn’t just a place—it’s a palette of experiences, a mosaic of emotions, and a destination that changes you long after you return home. Whether you dream of watching the sun rise over the Himalayas, drifting along Kerala’s backwaters in a houseboat, or tasting your way through Delhi’s street food scene, India delivers wonder at every turn.

But in a country this vast and layered, thoughtful planning can turn a great trip into a truly unforgettable one. That’s where we come in.

Flying Squirrel Holidays is more than a travel brand—we’re your storytellers, experience crafters, and local insiders. With a passionate team that understands India from the inside out, we tailor every itinerary to your style, comfort, and curiosity. From boutique stays to heritage experiences, from temple trails to tiger safaris—we’ve got it all mapped out for you.

Ready to experience India your way?

Let’s curate your custom trip today.

Talk to an expert

Call us at ‪+91 33 40525777‬ / ‪+91 833 697 8737‬

Email us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com

FAQs

1. Is India safe for U.S. tourists in 2025?

Yes, India is generally safe for U.S. travellers, especially in popular tourist regions. Like any international destination, staying alert, using trusted transport, booking verified accommodations, and following local customs will enhance your safety.

2. How much does a trip to India cost from the USA?

On average, a 2-week trip to India can cost:

Budget travellers: $1,200–$1,800 (including flights)
Mid-range travellers: $2,000–$3,500
Luxury travellers: $4,000 and up, depending on customization

3. What’s the best time to visit India?

November to March is ideal for most regions. However, Himalayan regions are best in summer (April–June), and the monsoon is great for Ayurvedic retreats in Kerala (July–September).

4. Do I need vaccinations to travel to India?

Yes, the CDC recommends vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and routine immunizations. Check with your healthcare provider 4–6 weeks before departure.

5. How long can Americans stay in India on a tourist visa?

As of 2025, the Indian e-tourist visa for U.S. citizens allows multiple entries for stays of up to 180 days in a calendar year. Always check indiainnewyork.gov.in for the latest updates.

6. Can I use credit cards and U.S. dollars in India?

Major cities and hotels accept international credit cards. However, it’s best to carry Indian Rupees for local shopping, street food, and transport. U.S. dollars are not widely accepted.

7. What should I wear while traveling in India?

Dress modestly, especially at religious sites—covering shoulders and knees is recommended. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best for most seasons.

8. Is it easy to get around without speaking the local language?

Yes. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few local phrases can help, but most signs and services accommodate English-speaking travellers.

9. Can I drink tap water in India?

No. Stick to bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure of the water source.

10. What are the must-have apps for U.S. travellers in India?

IRCTC Rail Connect, Google Maps, Ola/Uber, Rome2Rio, and Google Translate will make your journey smoother.