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The Republic of India, abbreviated as India, is located in South Asia and is the largest country in the South Asian subcontinent. It borders Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and China to the northeast, Myanmar to the east, Sri Lanka to the southeast, and Pakistan to the northwest. India is a unified multiethnic country composed of over 100 ethnic groups, with the majority being Hindustani, who make up approximately 30% of the total population.
Ancient Indians created a brilliant ancient civilization. As one of the oldest ancient civilizations, India boasts a vibrant diversity and rich cultural heritage and tourism resources. India is also the birthplace of Buddhism, one of the world's three major religions.
The whole of India is hot, with most of the country having a tropical monsoon climate, while the Thar Desert in western India has a tropical desert climate.
India's climate is divided into the rainy season (June to October), the dry season (March to May) and the cool season (November to February of the following year). The best time to travel is during the cool season.
Amber Fort
Built in 1592, the Amber Fort, the former capital of Jaipur, sits atop a hill in the northern suburbs. Built from creamy white, pale yellow, rose-red, and pure white stone, it resembles amber from a distance, earning it the name. Due to its strategic location, it is surrounded by a moat and a winding, high wall. From its perch, the fort offers a commanding presence, guarding the city of Jaipur. The interior is magnificent, with the Mirror Palace, featuring glass walls that shimmer in the sunlight. The Amber Fort is not only regal and elegant, but also imbued with a rugged and imposing aura.
Taj Mahal
Completed in 1653, it was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum in memory of his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is hailed as the pride of India and considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Rabindranath Tagore described the Taj Mahal as "a tear on the cheek of eternity."
Agra Fort
This 400-year-old building is one of the most exquisite fortresses of the powerful Mughal Empire and was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1983. Because it is made of red sandstone, it is also known as the "Red Fort", and is as famous as the "Red Fort" in Delhi.
Ganges
The Ganges is India's mother river and the source of life in Varanasi. It's a sacred place for Hindus, and countless Hindus travel thousands of miles to Varanasi just to bathe in it. They firmly believe that the Ganges' waters can cleanse sin and illness and help the soul ascend to heaven. After the death of some Hindus, their families bring their remains to Varanasi for cremation, with the ashes scattered in the river.
Although the Ganges is sacred, the water is very turbid. If you want to follow local customs and bathe in the river, you must be mentally prepared. You can take a boat to the other side of the stone steps pier, where there are fewer people and the water is cleaner.
India has a rich history with ancient civilizations, Mughal and British colonial heritage, and diverse cultural, religious, and architectural landmarks across the country.
Located in South Asia, bordered by Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and the Indian Ocean. Major cities are accessible via international airports, trains, buses, taxis, and metro systems in metropolitan areas.
Most tourist sites open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Best months are October to March for cooler weather and festivals.
Fees vary: Taj Mahal ~USD 15–20, forts/palaces 2–10 USD. Tickets can be purchased online or at site counters.
Advance booking recommended for Taj Mahal, forts, and popular festivals—ideally 1–2 weeks ahead.
A full India trip ranges from 10 days to 3 weeks depending on regions visited.
Guided tours widely available in English, Hindi, and other major languages; some audio guides offered at popular sites.
Delhi → Agra → Jaipur (Golden Triangle), then north to hill stations or south to Kerala/Goa, depending on interests.
Some forts, palaces, and temples have evening light shows or cultural performances. Night safaris available in wildlife parks.
Peak season October–March; weekdays are less crowded, especially at popular monuments.
Urban and tourist sites have toilets, cafes, rest areas, shops; rural sites may have limited facilities.
Many monuments have steps and uneven paths. Major cities and modern attractions offer better accessibility.
Cash (INR) is widely used; cards accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist hubs; mobile payments common in urban areas.
Wide variety of local and international restaurants near major attractions; street food is popular in cities.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are widely available across India.
Options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels near all major tourist sites.
Handicrafts, textiles, spices, jewelry, carpets, and traditional artworks are common souvenirs.
Domestic flights, trains, long-distance buses, and taxis are widely available for onward travel.
