India

When you think of India, a country of over 1.4 billion people with ancient traditions, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Also known as the Indian subcontinent, it’s one of the few places on Earth where you can walk from a 5,000-year-old temple to a bustling street food stall in under an hour. Whether you're drawn by the spice-scented air of North India, the misty hills of the South, or the golden beaches of Goa, India doesn’t just welcome travelers—it pulls them in.

What makes India different from other travel destinations isn’t just its size—it’s the sheer variety packed into every corner. North India, home to the Taj Mahal, the Ganges River, and the spice markets of Delhi offers grand history and spiritual energy. Meanwhile, South India, with its temple towers, coconut groves, and slower pace feels like a different country altogether. You’ll find rice dominates meals in the South, while wheat-based breads rule the North. And if you’re wondering where to eat safely as a foreign visitor, locals know the trick: follow the crowd. Busy stalls mean fresh, hot food—less chance of stomach trouble. You don’t need to avoid street food; you just need to know how to pick the right spot.

India also holds 42 UNESCO heritage sites, ranging from the forts of Rajasthan to the rock-cut caves of Ajanta, more than any country in the Americas. These aren’t just postcard spots—they’re living places where rituals continue, monks chant, and children play in ancient courtyards. And if you’re planning a trip around festivals, you’ll want to time it with the Kumbh Mela, where millions gather at once—the largest human gathering on Earth. Or catch the colorful chaos of Durga Puja in West Bengal or the beachside parties of Goa’s hippie heartland in Anjuna.

Is India still cheap in 2025? Yes—if you know where to look. A night in a clean guesthouse in Varanasi costs less than a coffee in New York. A taxi ride across Jaipur? Less than $5. But don’t assume safety is the same everywhere. Mumbai and Delhi have different vibes when it comes to nighttime travel, and Punjab offers a surprisingly calm, welcoming environment for tourists. You don’t need to be an expert to navigate this country—just someone who’s ready to ask questions, try new things, and leave room for surprises.

Below, you’ll find real, practical guides written by people who’ve been there. Whether you’re trying to figure out what to eat as an American traveler, comparing the best beaches in Goa, or wondering if you need a visa for Everest, the answers are here. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what works.