India’s rich tapestry of culture, colour and history has been attracting travellers for centuries. From majestic mountains and beautiful beaches to spice-laden markets, bustling cities and picturesque palaces, India is a country waiting to be explored. Here’s our India travel guide for first-time travellers.
Things to see in India
The Taj Mahal in Agra is a marvel of marble and one of the most visited sites in the world – arrive at sunrise for an ethereal glow and thinner crowds. Nearby, Agra Fort, a palatial red sandstone fortress on the River Yamuna, has a fascinating history worth exploring.
In Delhi, the Red Fort is named for its massive red sandstone walls, built in 1638, and remains one of the city’s most popular attractions. In Jaipur, don’t miss Hawa Mahal, an intricate pink sandstone palace with 953 honeycomb-shaped windows (best viewed from the rooftop cafes across the street), and Amber Fort, a magnificent example of Hindu and Mughal-style architecture overlooking Maota Lake.
Other highlights include Galtaji (Monkey Temple) just outside Jaipur, and Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed astronomical observation site home to the world’s largest stone sundial.
Best places to visit in India
Delhi is the natural starting point for most visitors, blending ancient sites with a modern, sprawling capital. Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, also showcases spectacular Mughal architecture throughout the city. Jaipur, the “jewel" of Rajasthan, offers grand palaces and blush-pink architecture. Mumbai is a city of contrasts – home to Bollywood, striking British-era architecture, and a fast-paced commercial energy. Goa offers laid-back beaches and a tropical climate, while Kerala’s palm-lined canals are best explored by houseboat.
Where to stay in India
India offers everything from budget hotels and guesthouses to some of the most luxurious stays in the world. The iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai has attracted maharajas, dignitaries and celebrities for decades. For something truly memorable, India’s havelis, forts and palaces have been converted into hotels across the country – Taj Lake Palace, floating on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, is considered one of the most romantic hotels in the world.
Best places to eat in India
India is a gastronomic paradise, with each region offering distinctive food shaped by its culture and religion – expect some of the world’s best vegetarian cuisine alongside rich, varied non-vegetarian dishes. Street food is not to be missed, with kebabs, pakora, tandoori chicken, vada pav and samosas among the most popular options.
In Mumbai, Bademiya is a legendary kebab stall behind the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, while Shree Thaker Bhojanalay is famous for serving some of the city’s best Gujarati thali. In Jaipur, 1135 AD, set within Amber Fort, offers a royal Rajasthani dining experience named for the year the fort’s foundation stone was laid.
Cultural experiences in India
India’s temples and historic sites reflect centuries of religious and cultural history, with the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Kamakhya Temple and Golden Temple among the country’s most visited. Shopping at local markets is one of the most authentic ways to experience the country – in Mumbai, The Bombay Store is a historic lifestyle destination worth a visit. Film lovers can also tour Mumbai’s Film City for a glimpse into the world of Bollywood.
Getting to India
Several international carriers fly between Australia and India, generally via an Asian stopover. You’ll need a visa to enter, which must be arranged before arrival – the easiest option is an Electronic Visa (e-Visa) via the official Government of India e-Visa website. Be cautious of fake websites offering e-Visa services.