India Travel Guide: Best Destinations, Safety Tips, and Cultural Experiences

When planning a trip to India, a country with over 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, diverse climates, and deep-rooted spiritual traditions. Also known as the Indian subcontinent, it offers everything from bustling cities to silent mountain trails—making it one of the most varied travel destinations on Earth. Whether you’re drawn to the spice-scented streets of North India or the coconut-shaded beaches of the South, what you experience depends on where you go—and how you prepare.

North India, home to the Taj Mahal, the Ganges River, and the chaotic energy of Delhi and Varanasi is where history feels alive. It’s also where most tourists start, drawn by iconic temples, vibrant festivals like Kumbh Mela, and rich Mughal architecture. But South India, with its serene backwaters, 5,000-year-old temples like Mundeshwari, and cooler climate, offers a quieter, slower rhythm. The food is different, the languages are different, and the way people celebrate is different too. Choosing between them isn’t about which is better—it’s about what kind of journey you want.

Safety matters. Many travelers worry about food, transport, or scams. The truth? Most issues come from lack of simple prep. In Punjab, a region known for warm hospitality and low crime, you’ll find clean streets and helpful locals. In Mumbai and Delhi, you’ll find busy streets, strong police presence, and clear rules for tourists. The key? Stick to busy food stalls, drink bottled water, and avoid walking alone late at night. These aren’t restrictions—they’re smart habits that keep you safe and free to explore.

And then there’s the food. If you’re American or from the West, you might wonder what’s safe to eat. The answer? Hot, freshly cooked food from crowded places. Street vendors who serve a hundred plates a day? That’s your best bet. Avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruit, and cold drinks with ice. Rice isn’t just a side dish here—it’s the base of almost every meal, eaten more than any other food in the country. And yes, you can eat it all without getting sick—if you follow a few simple rules.

India isn’t just a place you visit. It’s a place you feel. Whether you’re trekking to K2 Base Camp, wandering through Goa’s hippie markets, or standing in front of a 5,000-year-old temple, you’re stepping into a story that’s been written for millennia. Below, you’ll find real, tested guides on where to go, what to eat, how to stay safe, and which festivals to time your trip around. No fluff. Just what works.