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India Tourism

Irresistible India

A country so vast and vibrant that a three-week vacation seems like a short holiday. India welcomes you with its beaches, heritage monuments, palaces, tropical wildlife, Himalayan adventures, indulgent cuisines, luxury resorts, backpacker’s dream destinations and much more. Let’s dive right into theread more

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Best time to visit in india

The medley of seasons in India has been the source of inspiration for storytellers and poets alike, providing breathtaking backdrops to many a drama and romances. As per the traditional lunisolar calendar, there are six seasons in India - Vasant (Spring), Greeshma (Summer), Varsha (Monsoon), Sharad (Autumn), Hemant (Pre-Winter) and Shishir (Winter).  However, for travel purposes, let’s focus on Winter, Spring, Summer and Monsoon. 

 

Geography of India

Understanding the location and topography of India becalms curious minds that wonder ‘why so many seasons’? Landmass bisected by the Tropic of Cancer explains the hot, humid and tropical tag that India has garnered. As much fun as the beaches are, when you have a coastline of 7516.6 km, you bear the brunt of both the northwest and the southwest monsoons. Good thing is that Indians love rains and will make sure that you enjoy them too. The snow-capped arc of 2,500 km long Himalayan mountain range towers over the entire north and northeastern part of India. What an absolute contrast to the western miles of arid sand dunes of the Thar Desert! It is a privilege to experience such geographical diversity in one single trip.

 

Climate of India

The alchemy of India’s various climatic subtypes makes sure that you are never too far from your choice of ambience. From skiing in the alpine tundra mountains to desert night camps or whisking your loved one to a cosy hideaway in the tropical rainforests, all is possible once you are here. The Western Coast and Ghats have a tropical rainy climate. The desert winds of Rajasthan and Kutch dance to the sub-tropical arid climate. Most of the Gangetic plains and large parts of Deccan Plateau have a semi-arid savannah climate with hot summers and ample monsoon.

Here are some pointers that will help you read India’s seasons like an open book. 

Peak Season – November to February 

Shoulder Season – March to May and October

Low Season – June to September

Travel Seasons

Average Temperature

Season

 

November to February

16-20°C in South India

-3 to 20°C in Northern Plains

10 to 25°C in Western India

Up to -30°C in Ladakh and other alpine regions

Winter

Dry and Cool
Cold and foggy with intermittent rains
Dry and Cool
Extremely cold and snowy

 
March to May


16°C  to 50°C 

Summer

Hot and dry in the plains
Hot and humid along the coasts


June to August

Max. temp. rang 26°C to 34°C

Min. temp. range 14°C to 20°C.

Monsoon 

Rains, Thunderstorms

September to November

Max. temp. range 28°C to 34°C

Autumn 

Clear sunny skies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

India in Winter (November to February)

If it is the soft crackle of firewood and windblown snowflakes you seek, after a fine day on the ski slopes, then this is the time to visit India. It also happens to be the best time to hit the sun-kissed beaches. A poetry in contrast!

Temperature
South India and the entire coastline remains pleasant with a minimum temperature of 16°C and a maximum of 20°C. The Northern Plains can get freezing cold up to -3°C at night. There is a change of 0.6°C per degree of latitude. Some tourist places such as Ladakh experience a sub-zero shiver of up to -30°C.

Weather
December and January are the coldest months across all terrains. The Himalayas keep the katabatic winds away from India thereby keeping the peninsula comparatively warmer than other continents. 

Significance
Winter is cherished all across India as the season to celebrate. Most of the religious festivals and auspicious celebrations rest in the cosy lap of these four months. 

Why visit now

  • From transport to food and accommodation, everything is at its functioning best as this is the peak tourist season
  • You get to celebrate major festivals such as Diwali, Christmas, New Year, Losar and many other specially curated attractions
  • Winter Himalayan treks are spectacular and less crowded

Things to know before the visit

  • Alternate transport options if traveling to remote locations
  • What to wear in different regions as there is a huge difference in temperatures
  • Location of nearby foreign currency exchange offices

Travel tips

  • It is advisable to book your tickets much in advance to avoid last minute rush
  • If visiting hill stations, keep an eye out for local news on road clearances
  • All adventure sports must be undertaken with certified operators

 

India in Summer (March to May)

It is a season that Indians look at with mixed emotions. Summer starts with a short and early spring season. The scorching afternoons make you want to stay indoors but the call of gushing waterfalls and bluebell meadows are irresistible. 

Temperature
In South India, western deserts and northern plains the temperature ranges from a slightly bearable 30°C to an unforgiving 50°C. In Himalayan foothills and alpine regions the temperature ranges from 16°C to 30C.

Weather
Summer begins early in March across India except the northwestern regions where it starts from April. This makes April the hottest month in South whereas May is the hottest month in North. 

Significance
You can get a lot done from daybreak to dusk as the days are long. Mornings are delightfully cool to step out to begin early explorations. 

Why visit now

  • The crowds have thinned out
  • Spring/early summer are the prime seasons to visit hill stations and valleys
  • Wildlife sightings and safaris are a sure success

Things to know before the visit
School summer holidays mean there will be a lot of children anywhere you go. Get ready for some high-energy surround sound on your travels

The exact route and assistance service station details for your road trip

Travel tips

  • Keep drinking sips of water at regular intervals
  • This is rush time on the hills; book your tickets, transport and activities much ahead of time
  • Cover yourself well if you intend to stay in the sun for a while
  • Keep your allergy medicines handy if spring pollens bother you

 

India in Monsoon (June to August)

Temperature
The maximum temperature ranges from 26°C to 34°C. The minimum temperature ranges from 14°C to 20°C. Northern plains have temperatures ranging from 26°C to 34°C whereas Himalayan foothills experience a cooler monsoon with 15°C to 20°C.

Weather
Heavy rains and thunderstorms are a norm. Some Terai regions experience only the afternoon showers.

Significance
Unlike other countries where rain is dreaded, India loves its monsoon season. Having been an agrarian society, Indians have depended on rainfall for a good crop for ages. It signifies life, fertility and prosperity. Rain is an important part of almost all rituals of cultural importance.

Why visit now
Thin crowds at all major tourist spots, waterfalls and rivers in their prime, unhurried hospitality and waking up to clouds piling up over verdant landscapes. Want more reasons? Here’s one you simply cannot resist - great discounts on hotel tariffs and airfare!

Rejoice and join in the revelry of important Indian festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Hemis Festival, Jagannath Rath yatra, Onam, Janamashtami, Sao Joao and many more

Things to know before the visit

  • National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries remain shut
  • Local guides may not be around so be prepared to explore the destination with the help of residents and books
  • If you keep a track of how monsoon breaks in India you can beat it by being one step ahead at the chase

Travel tips

  • Carry raincoats and umbrellas everywhere. Clear skies love to follow Murphy’s Law in this season
  • Invest in waterproof shoes with a good grip.
  • Keep a waterproof case handy for your gadgets.
  • Buffer up the travel time. Traffic snarls are a stark reality at this time of the year. 
  • Be extremely cautious while walking on waterlogged roads in the cities.

 

India in Autumn – Fall in love (September to November)

Temperature 
The average maximum temperatures ranges between 28°C to 34°C.

Weather
Diurnal temperature swings make the days warm and the nights nippy. The retreating northeast monsoon results in clear skies and sunny days.

Significance
It is the season that drumrolls the beginning of festivities. Preparations for all major festivals start now. 

Why should you visit now

  • You’ll get to shake a leg at the dandiya dance at Navratri festivals and watch the magnificent Dushera/ Durga Puja processions.
  • It is your last chance to catch high-octane river rafting expeditions or high-altitude road trips before they close down for winters.
  • Hill stations are aglow with heavenly fall colours and a feast of berries. 

Things to know before the visit

  • October heat is unforgiving at many destinations as it is coupled with high humidity. 
  • The tourist season is just beginning so getting an early start on your travel ensures that you get the best of everything. 
  • Walk into any shop and you will be greeted with the latest in fashion and trends as fresh stock arrives now, just ahead of the festive season.

Travel tips

  • Keep yourself covered from the sun and remain hydrated.
  • Look out for discounts on hotels and flights.

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Unmatched Beauty and Unlimited Adventure at the Land of High Passes. The Land of High Passes, Ladakh, the newly created Union Territory in India (previously a part of Jammu & Kashmir), boasts a landscape that can leave you with your jaws dropped. It is a place where the landscape changes dramatically; it is trulyread more

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Irresistible India

A country so vast and vibrant that a three-week vacation seems like a short holiday. India welcomes you with its beaches, heritage monuments, palaces, tropical wildlife, Himalayan adventures, indulgent cuisines, luxury resorts, backpacker’s dream destinations and much more. Let’s dive right into the wealth of information that will help you make every day of your trip count. 

 

India Tourism: Overview

Continent

Asia

Capital

New Delhi

Official Language

English

Dial Code

00-91+ area code

Population

1.353 Billion (2018 estimate)

Currency

Indian Rupee

Time Zone

India Standard Time IST (GMT+ 5:30)

Area

3.3 million sq. km

India Beaches

A sweeping coastline of 7516.6 km along India’s mainland and islands offers you an array of beaches to visit. Head towards Calangute, Baga, Anjuna and Palolem in Goa if you are in a mood to party. Andaman and Nicobar islands have world-class activities at Havelock and North Bay for those who seek the adrenalin rush. Scuba diving, seabed walking and water sports programs are available for individuals and families. If all you want to do is relax and rejuvenate then Kerala’s Varkala, Kovalam and Cherai are your best bet. You are in the land of Ayurveda, aromatherapy and natural abundance. Enjoy! Just a hop, skip and jump away from Kerala is your next destination - Bangaram island in Lakshadweep. Imagine being on an island that has a resident population of just 10 people!

 

India Wildlife

See them from a boat cruise or a jeep safari; they look you in the eye with a promise of unforgettable thrill. Wildlife in India is brimming with success stories of conservation and responsible ecotourism. India has a forest cover of 7,08,273 sq. km with 18 Biosphere Reserves, 104 National Parks and 551 Wildlife Sanctuaries. Kaziranga in Assam is a Natural World Heritage Site famous for its one-horned rhino population. Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is the only place in India that houses the Asiatic Lion. Thanks to varied elevations, Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh is a unique zone with four pantherine species - leopard, tiger, snow leopard and clouded leopard.

 

You can plan your visit to any of the conservation sites and protected areas depending on your interest. Some of the important ones on the map are:

  • Tiger Reserves: Kanha, Pench, Corbett, Bandipur, Dandeli, Ranthambore
  • Elephant Reserves: Periyar, Dubare, Mudumalai
  • Wetlands: Keoladeo Ghana, Chilka Lake, Vembanad, Loktak
  • Marine: Islands of Andaman & Nicobar, Bhitarkanika, Narara
  • Bird Sanctuaries: Khijadiya, Kumarakom, Nalsarovar, Bharatpur, Sultanpur

 

India Cuisine

The Indian style of cooking and its gastronomic delights are best relished, locally. They vary from state to state. The next best thing to do is find a restaurant that serves regional delicacies you wish to savour. Rice, roti (flatbreads made of whole wheat/buckwheat/sorghum/millet/corn), spiced curries (with meat or vegetables) and fried entrées are the basics on the table. Hop on board and discover the must-have signature dishes.

 

South India:
Fermented batter, homegrown spices and coconut line the gourmet trail of this region. Idli, dosa, fresh chutneys, sambar, medu vada, appam, stew, avial, Hyderabadi Biryani, Coorg Pandi Curry (pork), Chettinad Chicken, Malabar parotta, coastal fish preparations and payasam (dessert) are just some delights to discover.  

 

North India:
The traditional platters include a generous mix of marinated barbecues, dairy products, thick gravy dishes, fresh vegetables and Central Asian culinary influences. Roghan Josh lamb stew, the world famous Butter Chicken, Amritsari Chhole bhature, Tandoori roti (made in clay ovens), Rajma-Chawal, Makke ki roti & sarason ka saag, Kebabs, Litti-Chokha, Dal-Bati-Churma, Lal Maas, Gajar ka halwa and Ras Malai (desserts) are some of the notable ones.

 

West India:
Seafood, snacks and nourishing drinks take up a large portion of this pie chart. Do try the signature Parsi dishes like dhansak, patra ni macchhi and salli boti when in Mumbai. Other wonder plates include spicy Kolhapuri Mutton, Pork Vindaloo, Vada Paav, Paav-Bhaji, Bhelpuri, Panipuri, Prawn Curry in coconut gravy, butter garlic crab, Puranpoli (sweet flatbread) and Gujarati Thali meals.

 

East India:
Abundance of rice, fertile rivers and the palates of indigenous north-eastern tribes give the cuisine of eastern states of India a unique significance. Tibetan, Chinese, Thai and Mongolian influences add a layer of enigma to your food explorations here. From the soul satisfying Thukpa to smoked pork with bamboo shoots and fish curries, you have a lot to choose from. The vegetarian fair is as lavish with its variety of dals, bhajas and desserts such as Rasgulla and Chhena Poda.

 

India Tourist Spots

A little bit of planning goes a long way when you are chalking out your India itinerary. You will always be overwhelmed with a feeling of ‘so much to see, so little time’. A good way to counter that is to make a region-wise list. It will help you maximise the experience by minimising spends and travel time. 

Some of the integrated destination circuits are:

Delhi-Jaipur-Agra:
This Golden Triangle is one of the most visited trails in India. Perfect for those who have just a few days to spare.  Some of its highlights are the Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Akshardham, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Jantar Mantar, Amer/Jaigarh/Nahargarh Forts, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal and Jaipur City palace. Add Khajuraho to this circuit and you can see the UNESCO World heritage site of temples with erotic sculptures.

Bhubaneswar-Puri-Konark:
It is called the Golden Triangle of the east. This covers the famous Konark Sun temple, Jagannath temple, beaches of Puri and the hub of Odia culture, Bhubaneswar. 

Jodhpur-Bikaner-Jaisalmer:
A breath-taking circuit of forts, palaces and The Great Indian Desert. Visit Mehrangarh, Umaid Bhawan, Junagarh, Lalgarh and the Jaisalmer fort to sift through pages of history. 

Kerala:
Tranquil backwaters of Allepy, Kumarakom and Kochi offer a great backdrop for a relaxing holiday. Pamper yourself with rejuvenating ayurvedic treatments by the beaches of Varkala, Kovalam, Cherai and Bekal. Eco enthusiasts will have a field day at Periyaar Tiger Reserve, Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park and many others.

Chennai-Kanchipuram-Mahabalipuram:
Welcome to the Golden Triangle of the South. The ancient city of Chennai is your gateway to the UNESCO Heritage site of Mahabalipuram – home to 7CE rock relief monuments and over 40 temples and Kanchipuram – known for Kanchi Matha headquarters and the famous Kanchipuram Sarees. 

Assam-Arunachal Pradesh-Manipur-Meghalaya-Mizoram-Nagaland-Sikkim-Tripura:
Known as the ‘paradise unexplored’, India’s north-eastern region is rich in natural beauty. Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, Majuli riverine island, Namdapha National Park, Tawang, Loktak Lake, INA Museum, Mawsmai Caves, Cherrapunjee, Tam Lake, Kohima War Memorial, Gangtok and Neermahal are some of its major attractions.

 

India Popular themed circuits:

  • Lumbini-Bodhgaya-Sarnath-Kushinagar Buddhist circuit 
  • Badrinath-Kedarnath-Gangotri-Yamunotri Himalayan pilgrimage circuit
  • Delhi-Jaipur-Ranthambore-Fatehpur Sikri-Agra-Orchha-Khajuraho-Varanasi Luxury Train Circuit by Indian railways

 

Interesting Facts about India

  • Water was first discovered on the moon with the help of India’s Chandrayaan 1 moon mission in 2009.
  • The game of snakes and ladders originated in India.
  • India has a village, Shani Singapur, where most of the houses don’t have a door.
  • Kumbh Mela of 2013 at Allahabad saw the largest congregation of pilgrims in the world.
  • It has the highest cricket ground in the world at an elevation of 2,144 mtr in Chail.

Location of India: Transit Territory

India is located in the Indian Subcontinent, north of the equator, in South Asia. Its prominent peninsular features are surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The Himalayan mountain range is to its north and northeast. India is a significant transit point that connects the European and Central Asian countries with East Asia and Australia via sea route. 

 

Best time to Visit India

November - February:
This season bookends the best time to visit India with the beginning of winter and arrival of spring. The beaches come alive with tourists at this time. Sightseeing is pleasant as the soaring temperatures and humidity take a backseat. It is also the time to rejoice and party as most of the festive celebrations such as Diwali, Christmas, New Year and many others line up during these months. 

March - May:
Summertime in India is known to be harsh with temperatures rising above 45°C. With this disagreeable weather arrives the golden opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure sports lovers. Megafauna and rare animal sightings around the water bodies are a given at most of the National Parks. The alpine Himalayan areas warm up and are no longer excruciatingly cold. 

June – September:
The western coast gets its first monsoon showers before the eastern coast. This is the time to see India in a glory that most of the tourists miss out upon. Rolling hills are covered in a canopy of mist and green lushness. 

 

How to get to India

By Air: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennay, Bengaluru, Hyderabad are well connected with the rest of the world by flights. 

By Rail: Once you are in India, you can book your tickets with Indian railways via their online portal to reach a desired city or a town.

By Road: State Transport Buses, Taxicabs, Car Rentals and privately-run Volvo buses ply between all major cities, towns and villages. If you are visiting from a neighbouring country, you can simply drive down as long as you have all the necessary documents in possession.

 

History of India: From Indus to Independence

Indus Valley Civilisation, 2,500 BC, marks the beginning of India’s documented history. It was followed by key historic periods such as the Vedic Civilisation, onset of the Buddhist age around early 7th Century BC and Alexander’s invasion in 326 BC. What followed is divided into ancient (Gupta/ Harshavardhana/ Chalukyas/ Pallavas), medieval (from the Palas to the Mughals) and the history of the freedom struggle since 1857.

 

Language Spoken

Hindi, English

Currency used:

Indian Rupee

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