Planning a trip to India in 2025? Discover everything you need to know, including travel requirements, insurance, costs, and travel tips.
If you’ve been dreaming of an unforgettable trip to India, 2025 is the perfect time to make it happen! From stunning temples to vibrant markets, India offers something for everyone.
But before you pack your bags, there are a few things you’ll need to know. Whether it’s your first trip to India or your third, here’s everything you need to plan like a pro!
Table of Contents
India Travel Requirements
Traveling from the USA to India? Before you head off on your Indian adventure, make sure you’ve got all the right paperwork. Here’s the lowdown:
- Visa: You’ll need a valid India travel visa (unless you’re eligible for an eVisa). This is one of the first steps to kick off your trip to India!
- Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date. Don’t wait until the last minute to check!
- Flight Costs: A round trip to India from the USA can range from $600 to $1,200, depending on the season. Book early to snag the best deals
- eSim for India travel: Stay connected effortlessly in India with a convenient travel eSIM option.
- Currency: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Be sure to exchange some cash beforehand or use international credit cards!
- Vaccines: Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccines for India travel — check with your doctor a few weeks before departure.
- What to Pack for India: Light, comfortable clothing, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, an international travel adapter, and a good camera for all the amazing moments.
- Travel Insurance: You never know when you’ll need it — consider travel insurance for a trip to India to cover hospitalization costs.
- Customs Regulations: India has specific customs rules, so get familiar with what you can and can’t bring (no need for surprises!).
- OCI & NRI Convenience: Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders enjoy a lifelong, multiple-entry visa for India, while Non-Resident Indians (NRI) don’t need a visa to enter India.
How Much Does a Trip to India Cost?
One of the first questions people ask is, “How much is a trip to India going to set me back?” Well, good news — whether you’re a budget backpacker or a five-star traveler, India caters to every wallet.
Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your dream getaway:
- Budget Trip to India: Perfect for backpackers and solo adventurers. Find cheap lodging or hostel stays, eat at local dhabas, and use public transport. You can get by on $25–$30 per day. A month of traveling India for under $1,000? Yes, totally doable!
- Mid-Range Trip: Want a little more comfort without blowing your budget? Mid-range travelers can expect to spend $50–$100 per day. This covers 3-star hotels, domestic flights, guided tours, and those extra masala chais.
- Luxury Trip to India: Craving private drivers, palace hotels, and sunset dinners overlooking the Taj Mahal? A luxury trip to India might cost $200+ per day. From luxury wellness retreats in Kerala to five-star safaris in Ranthambore, you’ll be pampered every step of the way.
- Family Trip to India: If you’re taking the whole crew, expect around $75–$150 per day per person, depending on your travel style. Family-friendly resorts and private transport make it hassle-free.
- Spiritual Trip to India: Headed for ashrams, yoga retreats, or Himalayan monasteries? Many places offer affordable packages starting around $20 a day, including food, stay, and meditation sessions.
Top Destinations in India
Wondering what to see in India? Check out these iconic spots:
- Taj Mahal (Agra): This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Goa: Sun, sand, and sea. Perfect for relaxation and beach parties.
- Rajasthan: Explore palaces, forts, and vibrant cultures in cities like Jaipur and Udaipur.
- Kerala: Known for its backwaters and Ayurvedic treatments.
- Ladakh: Breathtaking mountains, monasteries, and high-altitude lakes.
- Golden Triangle Tour: Connects Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, offering a perfect introduction to India’s rich history, royal palaces, and vibrant street life.
Read more: Top Travel Attractions & Tourist Destinations in India
Best Times to Visit India
Planning your trip to India? Timing is everything — this country thrives on color, culture, and celebrations year-round. But some months are magic for travelers, especially if you love festivals, while others are better avoided.
Here’s a quick guide:
- October to March: The weather is cooler, the skies are clear, and it’s perfect for sightseeing, trekking, beach-hopping, or cultural tours.
- October-November: Experience Diwali, the festival of lights, when cities glow with lamps, fireworks, and sweets.
- March: Join Holi, the festival of colors — a joyous, messy celebration with color throwing, music, and dancing.
- August-September: Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai and Onam in Kerala are vibrant, cultural experiences.
Times to Avoid Travel to India:
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April to June: Unless you’re heading to the Himalayas, most of India gets scorching hot, with temperatures soaring past 40°C (104°F).
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July to September: The monsoon hits hard — expect heavy rains, travel delays, and flooding in parts of the country. That said, it’s a beautiful time in places like Kerala and the Western Ghats if you don’t mind getting wet.
Plan a Family Trip to India
India is a vibrant, diverse country full of adventures that are perfect for all ages, from thrilling theme parks and interactive museums to wildlife safaris and cultural landmarks.
Thinking of a family trip to India? Here are some essential tips to help you plan a smooth and memorable trip:
- Choose Family-Friendly Hotels: Look for hotels with amenities like kid zones, connected rooms, and on-site dining.
- Use Reliable Transport: Pre-book cabs or use trusted apps like Uber for safer travel.
- Pack Smart: Bring light, breathable clothes; carry scarves or shawls for temple visits.
- Stay Hydrated: Always drink bottled or filtered water; keep electrolyte packets handy.
- Mind the Food: Stick to freshly cooked meals; avoid raw street food for kids.
- Plan Rest Days: Avoid overpacking the itinerary — include downtime to avoid burnout.
- Bring Entertainment: Carry games, coloring books, or tablets for long journeys.
- Carry Essentials: Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, and basic meds.
- Stay Connected: Get a local SIM or eSIM card for maps, emergency contacts, and bookings.
- Be Culturally Aware: Teach kids basic greetings and customs to enhance the experience.
Read more: Best Family Travel Destinations in 2025
Book a Spiritual Trip to India
India is a spiritual haven for many travelers. If you’re planning a spiritual trip to India, here’s what you can do:
- Temples & Spiritual Sites: Explore places like Varanasi (the Ganges), Rishikesh (yoga and meditation hubs), or the famous Chardham Yatra.
- Retreats: Attend a yoga or meditation retreat in the Himalayas or Kerala for some serious inner peace.
- Ayurvedic treatments: Immerse yourself in restorative therapies at Ayurvedic wellness retreats in Kerala that nurture your body and soul.
If you’re planning a trip to India and don’t channel a little of the Beatles’ trip to India energy, are you even doing it right?
Plan a Solo Trip to India
India is an exciting and diverse destination for solo travelers, offering rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Here are some safety tips for solo women travelers to make the most of your solo trip to India:
- Stick to well-known areas: Stay in popular tourist areas like Delhi, Goa, and Rajasthan for better safety and convenience.
- Travel during daylight: Explore during daylight hours and avoid isolated spots after dark.
- Dress modestly: Respect local customs with loose, comfortable clothing, especially in rural or religious areas.
- Choose trusted transportation: Use Uber, Ola, or other pre-booked transport options for safety.
- Stay connected: Get a local SIM or eSIM for India travel to stay in touch.
- Join groups: Connect with fellow solo travelers through Meetup or Facebook groups for shared experiences.
- Trust your instincts: Remove yourself from the situation if something feels off.
India offers a blend of adventure, culture, and spiritual experiences that make it a fantastic destination for solo travel.
Street Food in India
India is a street food lover’s paradise. From pani puri and samosas to chole bhature and kebabs, India’s street food is diverse and diverse.
But be careful! You might just catch a case of Delhi Belly if you’re not cautious. To avoid this, always eat at places with high turnover, where food is fresh, and avoid tap water.
Just remember to drink bottled water and avoid ice!
Read more: Best India Food Tours & Street Food
Be an Ethical & Responsible Traveler
Here are some ways to be a responsible and ethical traveler and ensure your journey through India positively impacts the people, animals, and environment you encounter.
- Respect local customs and traditions – India is culturally diverse, so dressing modestly and behaving respectfully in different regions is essential. Always observe local norms, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
- Support local communities – Choose locally-owned guesthouses, guides, and restaurants. Buying handmade crafts directly from artisans helps preserve traditional skills and benefits local economies.
- Avoid single-use plastics – India faces serious plastic pollution issues. To minimize waste, carry a reusable water bottle, a cloth bag, and reusable travel utensils.
- Say no to animal rides – Be a cruelty-free and ethical traveler and say NO to elephant and camel rides. Instead, visit ethical sanctuaries like Wildlife SOS, which rescue and rehabilitate abused animals.
- Be respectful in sacred places – Remove shoes before entering temples or homes, and follow posted guidelines. Avoid taking photos where prohibited.
- Learn local phrases – Knowing a few words in Hindi or regional dialects can create positive interactions and show respect.
- Dispose of waste responsibly – Always use bins, avoid littering, and recycle when possible to help protect India’s natural beauty.
Digi Yatra App for Indian Citizens
The Digi Yatra App uses facial recognition technology to let travelers breeze through airport checkpoints with just their face while ensuring data is deleted within 24 hours of departure for privacy.
Here’s how it works:
🛫 Register on the app – Each adult traveler must register individually using a separate device and Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
🛫 Add dependents – You can add minors or dependents under your profile for easier group travel.
🛫 Upload a selfie and details – Take a selfie and upload your ID (like Aadhaar) to create your DigiYatra profile.
🛫 Link your boarding pass – Scan or upload your airline ticket to sync your travel details.
🛫 Use your face as your ID – Facial recognition at airport e-gates verifies your identity without documents.
🛫 Enjoy faster processing – Move swiftly through check-in, security, and boarding with contactless access.
🛫 Data privacy ensured – Biometric data is encrypted and automatically deleted within 24 hours of departure.
Indian citizens can use this app to speed up airport check-ins and make their travel smoother.
Whether planning a family trip to India, a solo adventure, or a luxury getaway, this country has something for everyone. From the spiritual vibes of the Ganges to the vibrant streets of Delhi, there’s never a dull moment in India!
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