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Country Profile The Republic of India is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by area, the second-most populous country, and the most populous democracy in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the southwest, and the Bay of Bengal on the southeast, it shares land borders with Pakistan to the west; China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the north; and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka and the Maldives; it’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Thailand and Indonesia. Modern humans arrived on the Indian subcontinent from Africa no later than 55,000 years ago. Their long occupation, initially in varying forms of isolation as hunter-gatherers, has made the region highly diverse, second only to Africa in human genetic diversity. Settled life emerged on the subcontinent in the western margins of the Indus river basin 9,000 years ago, evolving gradually into the Indus valley civilization of the third millennium BCE. By 1200 BCE, an archaic form of Sanskrit, an Indo-European language, had diffused into India from the northwest, unfolding as the language of the Vedas, and recording the dawning of Hinduism in India. The Dravidian languages of India were supplanted in the northern regions. By 400 BCE, stratification and exclusion by caste had emerged within Hinduism, and Buddhism and Jainism had arisen, proclaiming social orders unlinked to heredity. Early political consolidations gave rise to the loose-knit Maurya and Gupta empires based in the Ganges basin, their collective era suffused with wide-ranging creativity but also marked by the declining status of women, and the incorporation of untouchability into an organized system of belief. In south India, the Middle kingdoms exported Dravidian-languages scripts and religious cultures to the kingdoms of Southeast Asia |
Capital: New Delhi
System: Federal parliamentary republic
Area: About 3,287,263 square kilometres (1,269,219 square miles)
Size comparison: Roughly thirteen times the size of the United Kingdom and about a third of the size of the United States
Population: Approximately 1.4 billion people
Languages: Hindi and English (official at the Union level, alongside 21 other constitutionally recognised languages such as Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi)
Religion: The predominant religion is Hinduism, followed by Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, and others
| Regions | |||
| Andhra Pradesh | Arunachal Pradesh | Assam | Bihar |
| Chhattisgarh | Goa | Gujarat | Haryana |
| Himachal Pradesh | Jammu & Kashmir | Jharkhand | Karnataka |
| Kerala | Madhya Pradesh | Maharashtra | Manipur |
| Meghalaya | Mizoram | Nagaland | Odisha |
| Punjab | Rajasthan | Sikkim | Tamil Nadu |
| Telangana | Tripura | Uttarakhand | Uttar Pradesh |
| West Bengal | |||
| Cities | |||||
| Delhi | Mumbai | Kolkata | Chennai | Hyderabad | Bengaluru |
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💰 Currency
Official Currency: Indian Rupee (INR), symbolised as “₹”.
Coins: ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10.
Banknotes: ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2,000 are in circulation, though smaller denominations are most commonly used.
🔄 Currency Exchange
Currency can be exchanged at:
🏦 Banks
💱 Authorised currency exchange bureaux (widely available in major cities and tourist hubs)
🏨 Hotels (usually at less favourable rates)
🏧 ATMs are available in most cities and larger towns, typically offering competitive exchange rates.
💳 Credit & Debit Cards
Widely accepted in: Hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, and large establishments in urban areas.
Less common in: Local markets, small shops, and rural regions — cash is generally preferred.
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. American Express is accepted in some upscale or international locations.
Tipping
🍴 Restaurants
A tip of around 10% is standard if service isn’t already included in the bill.
🏨 Hotels
About ₹100–₹200 for bellhops or housekeeping staff is customary.
🚖 Taxis & Auto-rickshaws
Tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up to the nearest ₹10 or ₹20 is appreciated.
🧭 Tour Guides & Drivers
Around ₹400–₹800 per day is common, depending on service quality and group size.
Communications
📱 Mobile Phones & SIM Cards
If you’re planning to stay connected while travelling in India, picking up a local SIM card is both affordable and straightforward. It’s the easiest way to get reasonably priced mobile data and local call rates without relying solely on Wi-Fi.
Major Providers:
Jio – excellent 4G coverage and affordable data packs
Airtel – fast speeds and strong urban as well as rural reach
Vi (Vodafone Idea) – competitive pricing, mainly in urban areas
BSNL – government provider with wide rural coverage, though slower speeds
Where to buy: You can purchase SIM cards at airport kiosks, official operator outlets, shopping centres, or small electronics shops. Remember to carry your passport and a passport-sized photograph — these are required for registration.
Cost: Expect to pay around ₹200–400 for a SIM with a starter pack that includes several GB of data and local call minutes. Top-ups and recharge vouchers are widely available at corner shops, mobile outlets, and even through digital payment apps like Paytm and Google Pay.
🌐 Internet & Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi hotspots: Most hotels, many cafés, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. You’ll also find hotspots in airports, some train stations, and public areas in larger cities.
Connection quality: Internet speeds are generally reliable in cities and tourist hubs, but can be slow or inconsistent in rural regions, remote towns, and hilly areas — especially in the Himalayas or interior states.
💡 Tip: Download offline maps before travelling to remote locations — handy if your signal disappears along with the road signs!
Getting Around
🚕 Taxis
Common and affordable in major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
Colours: Official taxis are usually black-and-yellow (Mumbai) or white with a taxi light on top. Avoid unmarked cars for safety.
How to use them:
Always agree on a fare before setting off if the driver refuses to use the meter.
For extra security, book through your hotel or a reputable app.
Rates: Short city trips start from around ₹100–200, with longer journeys costing proportionally more.
Tipping: Not required, but rounding up is appreciated.
Apps: Ola and Uber are widely used in most Indian cities, offering safer bookings and transparent pricing.
🚌 Buses & Minibuses
Local Buses: Very cheap and extensive, though routes may be confusing for first-time visitors. Expect crowded conditions during peak hours.
Long-distance Buses:
Private and government-run services connect major cities and tourist hubs. Premium operators (like KSRTC Airavat, VRL, or RedBus-booked coaches) offer air-conditioned reclining seats, blankets, and sometimes Wi-Fi. Overnight options are common.
Minibuses & Shared Tempos: Popular for shorter routes or between towns; they usually depart when full. Cheaper but less spacious.
🚗 Rental Cars
Recommended only if you’re confident with Indian driving conditions — useful for exploring rural Rajasthan, Kerala’s backwaters, or Himalayan valleys.
Requirements:
An International Driving Permit is advised.
Driving is on the left-hand side.
Roads: Conditions vary; highways are improving, but rural roads may be rough, unpaved, or congested.
Cost: From around ₹2,000–3,500 per day for a small vehicle.
Tip: Use Google Maps or offline navigation, as mobile coverage can be patchy in remote or mountain regions.
🚙 Private Drivers & Tours
A comfortable but pricier choice, perfect for:
Golden Triangle tours (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur)
Himalayan circuits or wildlife reserves
Day trips from cities like Udaipur or Chennai
Most hotels and agencies can arrange English-speaking drivers or guided tours, with all transport included.
✈️ Domestic Flights
Ideal for saving time on long journeys, such as Delhi to Kochi or Mumbai to Guwahati.
Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, and SpiceJet offer regular domestic services across the country.
Prices are competitive, and flights can cut journeys of 24+ hours by train or bus to under 3 hours.
🚶 Walking & 🚴 Biking
Walking: Great for exploring old quarters such as Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, Jaipur’s bazaars, or Fort Kochi’s colonial streets. Be cautious of traffic when crossing roads.
Biking: Popular in regions like Ladakh, Goa, and Kerala. Guided cycling tours are available. In most big cities, heavy traffic and pollution make cycling less practical without a group or guide.
Health advice
💉 Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccines are required for entry, but the following are recommended:
Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio)
Hepatitis A: Recommended for most travellers
Hepatitis B: For longer stays or close contact with locals
Typhoid: If you’re planning to eat street food or visit rural areas
Rabies: If you’ll be spending time outdoors or around animals
💡 Tip: Check with your GP or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before travel.
🥤 Food & Water Safety
Tap water: Not safe for drinking – always choose bottled or filtered water (widely available).
Ice: Often made from tap water – avoid unless certain it’s from a purified source.
Street food: Tasty and popular, but choose busy stalls where food is freshly cooked.
Fruit & vegetables: Peel them or wash with bottled/filtered water.
🤢 Traveller’s Diarrhoea
Mild stomach upsets are common while adjusting to local food or water. Pack:
Oral rehydration salts
Anti-diarrhoeal medication (e.g., loperamide)
Basic antibiotics (consult your doctor)
💧 Stay well hydrated and opt for light meals if affected.
🌞 Sun & Heat Protection
India’s climate varies widely, from desert heat in Rajasthan to tropical humidity in Kerala.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water, even if not thirsty.
Sun protection: Use SPF 30+, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics work best; carry a layer for cooler evenings in northern regions.
🏔 Altitude & Climate Considerations
If visiting the Himalayas (e.g., Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand):
Take it easy for the first few days to acclimatise.
Consider medication for altitude sickness (consult your doctor).
Pack warm layers – temperatures drop sharply at night.
💊 Pharmacies & Medical Facilities
Pharmacies: Found in all towns and cities; many medicines are available without prescription.
Hospitals & Clinics: Excellent private hospitals in major cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai). Quality varies in rural areas.
Travel insurance: Essential for emergencies, private care, or unexpected illness.
Safety
1️⃣ General Safety
🛡 Low crime rate: Violent crime is uncommon in most tourist areas, though petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur in busy places like markets, train stations, or bus terminals. Keep valuables secure.
👮 Police presence: Tourist police units operate in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa. They are generally helpful and may speak some English.
🚶♀️ Safe to travel solo: Many solo travellers, including women, report feeling safe. However, it is advisable to dress modestly and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.
2️⃣ Political Stability & Regional Tensions
🏛 Political climate: India is politically stable, but demonstrations and strikes can occasionally occur, especially in large cities and certain regional hotspots.
📢 Avoid protests: Even peaceful gatherings can escalate unexpectedly, so it is best to stay clear.
🗺 Stay informed: Regularly check official travel advisories from your government (e.g., UK Foreign Office) before and during your trip.
3️⃣ Tourist Areas
🏞 Very safe: Popular destinations such as Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan (Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur), Delhi, Agra, and Himachal Pradesh are well-regarded for safety.
🛠 Good infrastructure: Tourist hubs generally offer good signage, guided tours, and warm hospitality.
4️⃣ Transportation Safety
🚗 Road conditions: National highways are in fair to good condition, but rural and mountain roads can be narrow and winding.
🚦 Driving caution: Local driving styles can be unpredictable, and traffic rules are not always followed.
🚕 Taxis & apps: Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber in cities.
5️⃣ Women Travellers
🤝 Respectful culture: India is socially conservative but welcoming to female visitors.
👗 Dress modestly: Covering shoulders and knees is advisable, especially in rural or traditional areas.
🌙 Night safety: Avoid travelling alone late at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
6️⃣ LGBTQ+ Travellers
🏳️🌈 Legal status: Homosexuality is legal following the decriminalisation of Section 377, but public attitudes remain conservative, particularly outside major cities.
🤫 Discretion advised: Same-sex couples may wish to keep public displays of affection to a minimum.
7️⃣ Cultural Sensitivity
🧥 Modest dress: Particularly important in temples, mosques, and rural communities.
🍷 Alcohol etiquette: Alcohol is widely available in cities, but restrictions exist in some states, and public drunkenness is frowned upon.
📸 Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural or traditional communities.
📞 Emergency Contacts (Nationwide)
🚨 General Emergency: 112 (all-in-one number for police, ambulance, and fire)
👮 Tourist Police: Available in major hubs like Delhi and Goa (dial 100 for police assistance)
☎ Directory Assistance: 197
Climate
India’s Climate – From Tropical Shores to Himalayan Peaks
India’s climate is as diverse as its landscapes — from humid coastal plains 🌴 to cool Himalayan air 🏔, and even snow in high-altitude regions. Understanding the seasons will help you plan wisely and enjoy your journey to the fullest.
🌦 General Climate Overview
India experiences a combination of tropical, subtropical, desert, and alpine climates. Instead of four seasons, the year is often divided into three main phases:
🌸 Monsoon (June–September)
Heavy rainfall in most regions, particularly the Western Ghats and North-East.
Refreshing greenery 🌿 but expect floods or disrupted travel in some areas.
Humid and warm in the plains, cooler in the hills.
☀️ Winter (October–February)
Clear skies, cooler nights, and pleasant days.
Crisp air in the north; mild and sunny in the south.
Ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural festivals.
🔥 Summer (March–May)
Hot and dry in much of northern and central India 🌞.
Coastal areas remain humid; hill stations offer cooler retreats.
Dust storms possible in the plains.
🗺 Regional Climate Differences
| Region | Monsoon (Jun–Sep) 🌧 | Winter (Oct–Feb) ❄ | Summer (Mar–May) 🔥 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi & North Plains | 25–35°C 🌦 heavy rains | 7–20°C ❄ cool/dry | 30–45°C 🔥 hot/dry |
| Rajasthan Desert | 27–35°C 🌦 patchy rains | 10–25°C ❄ pleasant | 35–48°C 🔥 scorching |
| Kerala & West Coast | 24–32°C 🌧 very wet | 20–30°C 🌴 mild | 25–35°C 🌞 humid |
| Himachal & Kashmir | 15–25°C 🌦 light rain | 0–15°C ❄ snowy | 15–30°C 🌞 mild |
| North-East India | 20–28°C 🌧 heaviest rains | 10–20°C 🌤 mild | 20–30°C 🌞 warm |
💡 Note: Mountain regions can have dramatic temperature swings — warm by day, freezing at night.
☔ Rainfall
Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Intense rainfall in the south-west and north-east.
Winter (Oct–Feb): Light showers in Tamil Nadu and coastal areas.
Summer (Mar–May): Mostly dry, but thunderstorms possible in the north.
⚠️ Flooding and landslides can occur in monsoon-prone areas — always check local updates before treks or travel.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Winter (Oct–Feb): Best for cultural exploration, trekking, and city visits.
Summer (Mar–May): Ideal for hill stations and Himalayan treks.
Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Beautiful greenery and fewer tourists — but expect rain delays.
🎒 Packing Tips by Season
Winter:
🧥 Warm layers • 🧢 Hat & sunglasses • 🧤 Gloves for Himalayan trips • ☀ Sunscreen
Summer:
👕 Light cotton clothing • 🧴 Sunscreen • 🕶 Sunglasses • 💧 Refillable water bottle
Monsoon:
🌂 Waterproof jacket/umbrella • 👟 Quick-dry shoes • 🦟 Insect repellent • 🧳 Waterproof bag covers
All Year:
Comfortable walking shoes • Light layers for varied temperatures • Power bank • Reusable bottle
Visa information
🛂 Tourist Visa for India
Foreign nationals visiting India for tourism, sightseeing, casual visits, or short-term recreation generally require a Tourist Visa (T Visa).
🌍 Eligible Nationalities
Citizens of most countries require a visa before entering India.
Over 170 countries are eligible for the e-Visa facility, which simplifies the application process online.
💻 e-Visa Facility
Available for tourism, business, and medical visits.
Must be applied for online before arrival.
Usually granted as:
30-day e-Visa (double entry, valid for 30 days)
1-year e-Visa (multiple entry, valid for 365 days)
5-year e-Visa (multiple entry, longer duration for frequent travelers)
📑 Required Documents
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages.
Recent passport-sized photograph (digital for e-Visa).
Completed visa application form.
Proof of travel (return ticket) and sufficient funds for stay.
💵 Visa Fees
Fees vary depending on nationality and visa duration.
Paid online during the e-Visa application process.
Some countries may have reciprocal arrangements with reduced or waived fees.
⏳ Processing Time
e-Visa: Usually processed within 72 hours.
Standard Tourist Visa (through embassy/consulate): May take 5–10 working days.
🚫 Restricted & Protected Areas
Certain regions in India (e.g., parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Ladakh, and the Andaman Islands) require an additional permit (Restricted Area Permit or Protected Area Permit).
⚠️ Important Notes
Overstaying a visa can lead to fines, deportation, or entry bans.
The e-Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible.
Travelers must enter India through designated airports and seaports approved for e-Visa.
Electrical
Which power plugs and sockets are used in India?
India uses power outlets and plugs of types C, D & M. All power sockets in India provide a standard voltage of 230V with a standard frequency of 50Hz. Check out the following pictures.
Type C – The standard European plug. Commonly used in Europe, South-America and Asia, but also in quite a few other countries. Plugs of type E and F will also fit in a type C outlet.
Type D – Mostly used in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and a few African countries. No other plug types will fit in a type D socket.
Type M – Mainly used in South Africa and some other African countries. Looks similar to a type D plug, however, it has larger pins. No other plug types fit into a socket of type M.
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