India can feel overwhelming to plan for on a first visit — a huge, diverse country with its own rhythms, customs, and practicalities. Here's a practical starting point for first-time foreign travelers.
Visa
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India; many nationalities are eligible for an e-Visa, applied for online before travel. Requirements and eligible countries change periodically, so always check current rules on India's official e-Visa government website rather than relying on older guides.
Money and Currency
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used everywhere; carrying some cash is useful for smaller vendors and rural areas, though cards and UPI-based digital payments are widely accepted in cities. ATMs are common in most towns and cities on a typical tourist circuit.
Health and Safety
Drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water, and travel insurance covering medical care is strongly recommended. Standard travel precautions apply in crowded tourist areas — keep valuables secure and be cautious of unsolicited offers of help or unusually cheap deals from strangers near major monuments.
Culture and Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting temples, mosques, and other religious sites — covering shoulders and knees is a safe default, and shoes are removed before entering most places of worship. Public displays of affection are less common than in many Western countries. A namaste (palms together, slight bow) is a widely appreciated greeting.
Getting Around
For multi-city trips like the Golden Triangle, hiring a car with a driver is one of the most comfortable and flexible options, avoiding the need to navigate unfamiliar train and bus systems directly. Ride-hailing apps work well within most major cities.
What to Pack
Lightweight, breathable clothing for most of the year, a light jacket for winter mornings and evenings in the north (December-February can be genuinely cool, even cold, in Delhi and Rajasthan), comfortable walking shoes, and modest clothing for religious sites.
