India

India rewards curiosity, but its scale makes a little planning invaluable. Rather than racing between distant highlights, build an itinerary around one region: combine Delhi, Agra and Jaipur for Mughal and Rajput history; Kerala for backwaters, beaches and spice gardens; or Tamil Nadu for temples and South Indian cuisine. October to March is generally a comfortable period for many popular destinations, although mountain and coastal weather varies by season. Reserve long-distance trains, domestic flights and sought-after hotels early, especially around major festivals. Hello’s trip-planning tools can keep flight details, hotel addresses, rail bookings and day-by-day plans together in one place. Leave breathing room: a delayed train, unexpected procession or spontaneous chai invitation can become part of the experience. Pack lightweight clothing, a scarf for sun or temple visits, comfortable shoes and a small day bag. India is easiest to enjoy when the schedule has structure—but not so much structure that there is no room for discovery.

India’s transport network is vast and varied. Overnight trains are memorable for long journeys, while domestic flights save time between far-apart cities. In major urban areas, use app-based taxis or metered auto-rickshaws where available; agree on a fare before entering a street-hailed rickshaw. At railway stations, check the platform display and coach position carefully, and use footbridges rather than crossing tracks. Keep valuables in a secure day bag and avoid displaying expensive jewellery or carrying large amounts of cash, advice echoed by Indian Railways. For shorter trips, metro systems in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru can be efficient, though rush hours are crowded. Roads may be chaotic, so allow extra time for airport transfers and sightseeing. Download offline maps, save your accommodation address in English and, if possible, in the local script. An activated Hello eSIM lets you book rides, check train updates and contact hotels without roaming charges; buy and activate it before landing so connectivity is ready when you arrive.

Indian food changes dramatically from one state to the next, so treat every destination as a new menu. In Delhi, try butter chicken, chole bhature and Mughlai kebabs; in Mumbai, sample vada pav and pav bhaji; in Hyderabad, look for biryani; and in Kerala, order a vegetarian sadya served on a banana leaf. Southern breakfasts such as masala dosa, idli and vada are excellent introductions to regional flavours. For street food, choose busy stalls where food is cooked hot and continuously, rather than dishes sitting uncovered. Drink sealed bottled water or water you know has been filtered, and be cautious with ice, raw salads and pre-cut fruit. Wash or sanitize your hands before eating. Spice levels vary, so ask for “less spicy” if needed, but do not assume every dish is fiery. Markets and food tours can quickly create a collection of small expenses; Hello’s budget tracker helps record spending in Indian rupees, while expense splitting makes shared thalis, taxis and cooking classes easier to settle.

India is welcoming, but respectful awareness makes interactions smoother. Dress modestly at temples, mosques and rural sites—covered shoulders and knees are a reliable choice—and remove shoes whenever signs or local practice indicate. Ask before photographing people, particularly children, religious ceremonies or private homes. Use your right hand when eating traditional meals, accepting food or passing objects, and avoid public displays of affection in conservative settings. In crowded places, keep phones and wallets secure and carry small notes, such as ₹10 to ₹100, for snacks, tips and short rickshaw rides. Carry hand sanitizer, sunscreen and a refillable bottle, using only trusted filtered water. Heat can be intense, so schedule major sights for early morning or late afternoon and take breaks indoors. A simple “namaste” is appreciated, while learning a few local words—such as “thank you” or “how are you?”—often opens doors to warmer conversations. Stay flexible, stay observant and allow India’s everyday details to be as memorable as its monuments.