India does not allow entry with an ID card only. All travelers are required to present a valid passport upon arrival. However, citizens of Bhutan and Nepal can enter India with a valid ID card.
Travelers from most countries must enter India with a valid passport. Here is a general guide:
Citizens of the following countries can enter India without a visa:
India offers an e-Visa program for citizens of many countries, allowing them to apply for a visa online before their trip. This e-Visa can be used for tourism, business, and medical purposes. Citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE are eligible for a Visa on Arrival at select airports for a short stay.
Most travelers need to obtain a visa before traveling to India, whether through the e-Visa system or at an Indian embassy/consulate. A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.
Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.
India has an extensive network of toll roads, especially on highways connecting major cities. Toll rates vary depending on the distance and type of vehicle. Many highways operate under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, charging tolls to fund construction and maintenance.
India’s climate is diverse due to its size, ranging from tropical in the south to temperate and alpine in the north. The country experiences four main seasons: winter, summer, monsoon, and post-monsoon.
Winter in India brings cool temperatures, particularly in the north, where temperatures can drop to near freezing in places like Delhi and Kashmir. Southern India remains warm, with temperatures between 68°F and 86°F (20°C to 30°C).
The summer season is marked by extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 104°F (40°C) in northern and central India. Southern India remains warm but less extreme. Coastal regions are hot and humid.
The monsoon season brings heavy rains across much of the country, with frequent downpours in coastal and southern areas. Flooding can occur, particularly in northern states and parts of Mumbai.
Temperatures begin to cool down, and the rains subside. This is a pleasant time to visit most regions in India, with moderate temperatures and clearer skies.
The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). The Rupee is abbreviated as ₹.
Rupee banknotes are available in denominations of ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000. Coins are available in smaller denominations of ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, and ₹10.
Currency exchange services are widely available in major cities, airports, and tourist areas. ATMs are also available, allowing you to withdraw INR directly from your bank account. International cards are widely accepted in ATMs.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers in urban areas. However, smaller shops and rural areas may prefer cash, so it’s advisable to carry small bills for daily expenses.