A Los Angeles–Based Global Lifestyle Magazine
Travel. Culture. Distinctive Stays. Lived Experience.
INDIA
India isn't one destination—it's hundreds of different journeys woven together. One trip might revolve around Rajasthan's royal palaces and desert forts, another around Kerala's backwaters and Ayurvedic wellness retreats, while others come for Himalayan monasteries, tea estates or extraordinary regional food.
That diversity is what makes India one of the world's most rewarding places to visit—and one of the hardest to plan. This guide brings together our destination guides, cultural insights and practical travel advice to help you decide where to go, how long to stay and which experiences are truly worth planning around. Rather than trying to see everything, we'll help you build an itinerary that matches your interests and travel style.
Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to explore another region, you'll find the resources below to help you make the most of your time in India.
Plan Around Experiences
Travel Stories & Cultural Experiences
Know Before You Go
1
Best Time to Visit
For much of the country, October through March offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing. April and May can bring intense heat across northern and central India, while the summer monsoon affects many regions from June through September.
Before booking, check the seasonal conditions for the specific destinations on your itinerary rather than assuming the weather is the same across the country.
2
Money & Credit Cards
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, shopping malls and many restaurants throughout India.
American Express is accepted at some luxury hotels and larger businesses but is far less common elsewhere.
It's still worth carrying some Indian Rupees for local markets, tipping, smaller shops and places where cards aren't accepted.
3
Staying Connected
Having mobile data from the moment you land makes getting around much easier, especially for ride-hailing apps, maps and messaging.
While local SIM cards are available, they can take time to arrange and may require additional documentation.
Many international visitors find it easier to activate an international roaming plan or install an eSIM before leaving home.
4
Pack Smart
Most flights from North America involve at least one connection before arriving in India.
While baggage usually arrives without issue, delays do happen.
Pack medications, travel documents, electronics and at least one change of clothes in your carry-on so you have everything you need if your checked luggage takes an extra day or two to catch up.
5
Health & Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for any trip to India. It can provide coverage for medical emergencies, flight delays, lost baggage and unexpected changes to your itinerary.
If you're visiting during the monsoon or traveling to remote regions, it's also a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before departure about any recommended vaccinations or preventive medications.
6
Respecting Local Customs
India is incredibly diverse, but a few customs are widely appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, remove your shoes before entering temples and many homes, and ask permission before photographing people.
A little cultural awareness goes a long way and often leads to warmer interactions throughout your trip.