Visit India

Located in South Asia, India is the seventh-largest country in the world by land area and the second-most populated country, with over 1.3 billion residents. After independence, the country is beautifully united with 29 states, each with its own language, traditions, and cuisine. The country has more than 1,600 dialects; still, people never fail to connect. This cultural unity has attracted tourists worldwide, especially for destination weddings, bolstering its economic growth. With its GDP at its highest, India has developed essential infrastructure since independence, ranging from advanced space facilities to widespread access to necessities. These factors position India as a potential key player in the global economy.

India is the most popular tourist destination worldwide, with nearly 1.8 million tourists applying for India eVisa annually. The most compelling reason for their visit is its rich cultural heritage. With a history spanning thousands of years, India boasts magnificent palaces like the Taj Mahal, awe-inspiring temples like the Konark Sun temple, and intricate artwork like Madhubani paintings showcasing the country's deep-rooted traditions. But India is not just a land of monuments; each state offers a melting pot of diverse cuisines, each more tempting than the last. From the spicy flavours of street food in Delhi to the aromatic biryanis of Hyderabad, India offers a culinary journey like no other. And let's not forget the world-famous Indian chai, a must-try for any visitor.

Beyond its cultural and culinary delights, India has breathtaking natural wonders that captivate your senses. Whether you're trekking through the lush greenery of the Western Ghats or exploring the picturesque beaches of Goa, the natural landscapes of India offer a peaceful escape from everyday busy life. But even with so many things to offer, most of our revisit-tourist visa application forms said it's the People they loved the most. Indians are known for their warmth and hospitality, always welcoming visitors with open arms. Whether you chat with locals in a bustling market or participate in a traditional festival, you'll find that people give you the best memories from your visit to India.

Food and drinks

Do you love spicy? Or sweets? Regardless of your preference, India's diverse cuisine offers delicious options for tourists to explore!

• Street Food: Walking down the lanes, you'll find street vendors with colourful stalls selling the best food in India. Try popular snacks like Idlis, Bisi Bele Bath from Karnataka, kebabs, Kashmiri pulao from Kashmir, vada pav, pav bhaji and pani puri from Mumbai. Some other local foods you can try are Dahibara from Odisha and Fafda from Gujrat. If you love sweets, try delicious jalebi and gulab jamun.
• Regional Cuisine: Every state owns unique flavours and specialities. Enjoy Rogan Josh, Saag Paneer, and fragrant Biryani in the North if you love spicy food. Head South for subtle delights like Masala Dosa, Vada, Upma, and Appam. In the East and West, savour the spicy and nuanced flavours of Shondesh, Machher Jhol, Aloo Posto, Dhokla, Pav Bhaji, and Daal Baati Churma.
• Tandoori Delight: Tandoor is a clay oven that gives dishes a smoky flavour. If you are a food with a spicy punch, try juicy tandoori chicken marinated in spices and yoghurt and then cooked to perfection in the tandoor (from the capital state, Delhi). Pair this with tandoori roti (flatbread baked in the tandoor) and enjoy the smoky aroma and crispy texture.
• Hot & Cold Beverages: India is more than just chai. You can enjoy Aam Panna (Raw mango drink) from Bihar or fresh Sugarcane juice from Odisha on a summery evening. You can also try Nimbu Pani (Lemonade) from Jharkhand. On wintery days, you can have filter coffee from Karnataka or Masala chai from Assam. Do enjoy the old, rich, creamy Thandai made with milk, nuts, and bhang if you're here for festivals.

Shopping and souvenirs

The bustling street with the smell of fresh spices, the vibrant colours of textiles, and the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans—India's markets offer a sensory feast for Indian tourist visa holders!

• Handicrafts: Craftsmanship and artistry have been passed down through generations in India, and there are many intricate handicrafts, like textiles, pottery, jewellery, and woodwork. Remember, each region offers unique pieces reflecting local culture. Look for Pashmina shawls from Kashmir for their warmth, Madhubani paintings from Bihar to add colour to your room, and brassware from Rajasthan to present a unique collection from India visit.
• Spices: As the soul of Indian cuisine, spices are crafted using traditional methods. Take home the essence of India with spices like turmeric, cardamom, cumin, coriander, mustard seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg that can transform home-cooked dishes into culinary masterpieces. Make sure that these spices are packed in air-tight jars during your travels.
• Traditional Clothing (Saree and Dhoti): Saree has been the conventional cloth used by women in India for centuries. It is a long cloth wrapped around the body gracefully. Get yourself a Banarasi and Kanchipuram silk saree. Dhoti is a traditional garment typically worn by men. It is a long rectangular cloth piece wrapped around the waist and legs. Men can buy Dhoti either from southern India or Uttar Pradesh.
• Tea: Being one of the world's largest tea producers, India offers various flavours. A must-try chai is Darjeeling tea, known as the "Champagne of Teas,". Assam tea is robust and malty, while Nilgiri tea offers a fragrant and floral experience. Additionally, you can learn about the tea-making process, which begins with plucking the tea from the garden to brewing the perfect cup in these places. Kashmiri's and Rajathani's techniques are also interesting.

Entertainment

Though India has clubs and bars, Indian visa applicants have a chance to enjoy a country rich in culture and tradition.

• Attend a Cultural Show: India's rich cultural heritage is beautifully showcased through these performances, offering a glimpse into the country's artistic traditions. The Indian tourist visa holder should attend a traditional dance, such as Bharatanatyam (Southern India), kathak (Northern India), Sattriya, Odissi and Manipuri (Eastern India) and classical music-poetry show like baithtak (performance) like ghazal.
• Explore Street Markets: Indian streets are filled with colourful markets, bustling with people, vehicles, and street vendors. Walk through markets like Delhi's Chandni Chowk, Mumbai's Colaba Causeway, and Kolkata's Chor Bazaar (India's largest old aesthetic market). Here, you'll find various goods, from clothing and accessories to handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Visit Historical Sites: Discover India's rich history by exploring its ancient monuments and historical sites. You can start with the world's seven wonders, the Taj Mahal, and then move towards Rajasthan, Odisha and Kerela. Explore the ancient rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora in Maharashtra. Tourists should also visit four important ancient Indian temples known as Chaar-Dhaam.
• Experience Wildlife & Natural beauty: apply for an online visa for India to adventure Jungle Safari in national parks like Ranthambore, Kaziranga, or Bandhavgarh to spot tigers, elephants, rhinos, and more in their natural habitats. Additionally, India is a land of natural beauty with waterfalls and mountain peaks of the Himalayas, offering spectacular views and opportunities for trekking and mountaineering.

Travelling with kids

Kids are always the priority for parents, and nobody can deny it! India has numerous activities to help your little ones create unforgettable memories!

• Kid-Friendly Resorts: Located in Coorg and Kabini in Karnataka, India, there are numerous family-friendly resorts for tourists. The resorts have amenities and activities for children, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organised games. They often offer nature walks, wildlife safaris, and other outdoor activities suitable for families, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Theme Parks:Visit theme parks like KidZania in Mumbai or Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. These parks offer numerous activities and attractions designed to educate and entertain children of all ages. You can take your children to India's largest theme park in Mumbai- Imagica, to enjoy thrilling roller coasters and other family-friendly rides. It also features themed restaurants, live entertainment, and a water park.
• Zoo and Aquarium: Let your kids enjoy the wonders of the underwater world at aquariums like Marine Drive in Mumbai or Taraporewala Aquarium in Kolkata. Additionally, tourist visit visa holders can take their kids to zoos such as Mysore Zoo in Karnataka or Delhi Zoo for an up-close encounter with various animals, providing children with an exciting and educational experience.
• Beaches: India has shallow beaches in Goa and Kerela where parents can easily let their children splash in the waters and enjoy various activities. Children can engage in activities like building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing beach volleyball or football. They have kid clubs where children can participate in arts and crafts sessions, treasure hunts, and beach games, giving parents time to relax and unwind.

Transportation

Convenience comes first! With the numerous options that Indian transportation facilities provide, tourist can easily choose the one that suits their preferences.

• Auto-Rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws, also known as tuk-tuks, are three-wheeled vehicles commonly found in India. They are either powered by a small engine or pedalled like bicycles. These are the best when exploring the hustling and bustling streets of India. As someone coming for the first time on an Indian visa, we suggest trying this at least once.
• Public-Transports: Indian cities boast extensive metro networks. The metro is a fast and efficient way to travel in major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. It's clean and safe and connects critical areas in the town. The bus network works best for places that lack a metro. Buses reach even remote villages, making them ideal for venturing beyond the tourist hotspots and discovering the authentic soul of India.
• Taxis & Rentals: For convenient transfers between hotels, airports, and markets, hop in a taxi or use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola. You can even instantly book a local taxi near the roads in India. However, if you prefer exploring at your own pace, consider renting a scooter, motorcycle or car (Remember to carry a valid license). Increase the word count.
• Trains: India has the largest train network in the world. These trains can help provide shorter journeys, like city hopping or the long journey from south India to the North. As a visitor on an Indian visit visa, you should at least once experience long-distance trains for an overnight experience or Vande-Bharat train from Pune-goa for the tranquil experience of the Western Ghats.

Festivals

With thousands of festivals, India welcomes visitors to enjoy the unison of cultures throughout the year! This year, it's your turn to apply for an India visa online and witness this.

• Diwali: The Festival of Lights is India's biggest celebration, representing the victory of good over evil. The festival is celebrated as the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after defeating demon king Ravana. Homes, temples, and public spaces are adorned with Diyas (oil lamps), candles, and colourful decorations. It would be best to visit Ayodhya or Banaras to experience the place lit up with thousands of Diya (lamps) and enjoy the fireworks. You can buy and wear traditional dresses on this day. (November - October)
• Christmas: Christmas is celebrated in India with joy and enthusiasm, especially in states with a significant Christian population like Goa, Kerala, and parts of Northeast India. It is celebrated to commemorate Jesus Christ's birth date, who Christians believe is the Son of God. You can experience beautiful decorations during Christmas, attend midnight church mass, and enjoy festive meals. Churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina are known for their vibrant Christmas celebrations, music, dance, and feasting. (25 December)
• Baisakhi: Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a harvest festival celebrated in Punjab and parts of North India. It also marks the beginning of the Sikh New Year and the formation of the Khalsa Panth by the 10th Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. The same festival is celebrated Pohela Boishakh in West Bengal, Bohag Bihu in Assam, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, Bihu in Uttarakhand, Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, PooramVishu in Kerala and MahaVishuva Sankranti in Odisha. Cherish dance, music, and several cuisines are on this day. (13-14 April)
• Eid Al-Fitr: Eid is an important Islamic festival for Muslims to celebrate, marking the beginning of the new Islamic Year. It marks the end of Ramadan, the sacred Islamic month of fasting. Prophet Muhammad established the festival after he migrated from Mecca to Medina. It would be best for Indian tourist visa holders to visit Old Delhi (Nizamuddin) to witness the prayers, feasting, and exchange of gifts. Visit Kashmir to witness the traditional Wazwan feast and pray in some of India's oldest mosques.