{"id":99393,"date":"2018-09-18T15:57:12","date_gmt":"2018-09-18T15:57:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/?p=99393"},"modified":"2018-09-18T15:57:12","modified_gmt":"2018-09-18T15:57:12","slug":"backpacking-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/backpacking-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything you need to know about backpacking India"},"content":{"rendered":"

From its frenetic cities to its breathtaking temples, India offers some of the most diverse travel experiences on the planet. Lazy backwaters and beaches, and stark Himalayan terrain, also feeds the wanderlust of wide-eyed backpackers.<\/p>\n

But India is a big and sometimes bewildering place, more akin to a continent than a country \u2013 and travel here can be enchanting and overwhelming in equal measure.<\/p>\n

To help you set off on the right foot, we\u2019ve put together a full guide to travelling in India. Here\u2019s everything you need to know:<\/p>\n

Contents<\/h2>\n
    \n
  1. Best time to visit India<\/a><\/li>\n
  2. Indian Visa<\/a><\/li>\n
  3. Indian Transport<\/a><\/li>\n
  4. Accommodation in India<\/a><\/li>\n
  5. Travel Costs in India<\/a><\/li>\n
  6. Places to Visit in India<\/a><\/li>\n
  7. Indian Food<\/a><\/li>\n
  8. Indian culture and customs<\/a><\/li>\n
  9. Is India Safe?<\/a><\/li>\n
  10. India Travel Advice<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Best time to visit India<\/h2>\n

     <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    \n

    Best time to visit India<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/th>\n

    		\n

    Places to visit in India<\/h4>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n

    January<\/td>\nTamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    July – September<\/td>\nThe Indian Himalayas<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    November – March<\/td>\nDelhi<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

    India\u2019s climate varies significantly from the north to the south of the country, and from season to season too.<\/p>\n

    In general, November through to March is the best time to visit large swathes of India. In northern parts, the climate is cool and dry \u2013 perfect conditions for visiting bustling Delhi or sightseeing in the enchanting state of Rajasthan. Temperatures in Delhi still reach 28\/9\u00b0C in November, dipping to around 25\u00b0C by February.<\/p>\n

    The south, such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala, is scorching year-round, but even these parts are more bearable come January. Central pockets of the country, such as Goa with its beaches and colonial architecture, are also more bearable in the wintertime. Temperature wise, sun-soaked Goa remains in the early thirties throughout the duration of winter.<\/p>\n

    If it\u2019s the Indian Himalayas you\u2019ve got your sights set on, you\u2019ll need to carefully time your trip. This mountainous region is freezing throughout winter, with biting temperatures and plenty of snow. July through to September is the best time for a trek in these parts, with temperatures in high-elevation regions such as Ladakh usually ranging between 15\u00b0C and 25\u00b0C. Time your trip for September and you\u2019ll catch the Ladakh festival, a week-long jamboree in capital Leh and the surrounding villages, with lively traditional music and dancers in colourful local costume.<\/p>\n

    Summer \u2013 May through to September \u2013 brings the wet or monsoon season. This means heavy rainfall, stifling humidity and, especially in the south, a heightened risk of flooding. States such as Kerala are best avoided at this time of year. Rainfall will have petered out in the northern reaches of the country by early October, but it will continue to soak southern states for a couple of months yet. By mid-December, most parts of the country will be dry.<\/p>\n

    India\u2019s many festivals are another draw for travellers \u2013 timing your trip for one of the country\u2019s many celebrations will make for a truly memorable experience.<\/p>\n

    Diwali (Deepavali), or the festival of lights, takes place in late October or early November and is famed the world over. Expect to see clay lamps lit outside homes across the country, colourful Rangoli art adorning walls and fireworks glittering in the sky. The lights represent the triumph of good over evil, and the festival is considered a time of personal contemplation. Much of the celebrations take place in family homes, but the twinkling light shows are for all to enjoy and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is one of the best places to see a firework display.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    \ud83d\udcf7: @S Pakhrin<\/em><\/p>\n

    Holi, in March, is another Indian festival that has gained international recognition. Also known as India\u2019s \u201cFestival of Colours\u201d, it symbolises the end of winter, and also the demise of demon Holika. Giant bonfires are lit and rainbow powder explodes into the air. The liveliest celebrations happen in Delhi, with street food and pumping music. The sacred city of Mathura, meanwhile, puts on one of the most traditional Holi festivals.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    \ud83d\udcf7:@Steven Gerner<\/em><\/p>\n

    The temple festivals of southern state Kerala are also a cultural highlight. They involve huge psychedelic floats and colourful festivities. Thrissur Pooram in mid-May is the most famous of them all, taking place at Kerala\u2019s Vadakkunnathan Temple.<\/p>\n

    In September, the Ganesh festival, celebrating Lord Ganesha, the famed and revered deity with an elephant\u2019s head, is a feast for the eyes. Towering statues of the divine being are paraded up and down the country, and gifts and prayers are offered up to the god. Mumbai hosts the most impressive of all the festivals, centring around the Siddhivinayak temple and boasting some 150,000 idols each year.<\/p>\n

    Indian visa<\/h2>\n

    You\u2019ll need a visa to travel to India. e-Tourist visas, which last up to 60 days and allow double entry into the country, are available to citizens in the UK (and most other European nationals), USA and Australia. You can check the list of eligible countries<\/a> on India\u2019s e-Tourist visa website.<\/p>\n

    Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in India, and it should have blank pages available for use by immigration officers at the border. You should make sure you apply for an e-Tourist visa a minimum of four days in advance of your travel date, but earlier (max 120 days earlier) is recommended.<\/p>\n

    The visa is non-extendable, and allows entry to 25 designated airports, including Delhi, Goa, Mumbai, Jaipur and more. You can check the full list here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    A tourist visa is sufficient for those planning only to travel around \u2013 if you plan to work, you should apply for an e-Business visa instead.<\/p>\n

    You must apply for and pay for your e-Visa online \u2013 the step-by-step process is simple. You\u2019ll need to have your personal and passport details ready to fill in the relevant forms, and upload a recent passport-style photograph (in colour). If the online process is available to you, a handwritten application will no longer be accepted.<\/p>\n

    The fee will depend on the type of visa you\u2019ve applied for. Note that you\u2019ll need to pay the fee even if you withdraw your application, it is rejected, or you choose not to travel. A basic e-Tourist visa should be $60 (approx. \u00a346), plus a $1-2 processing fee, if organised through the government site<\/a> \u2013\u00a0you\u2019ll pay considerably more should you use a third-party site.<\/p>\n

    Indian transport<\/h2>\n

    Cross-country travel in India is an adventure, however you choose to do it \u2013 and the country\u2019s vast size means you\u2019ll spend plenty of time in transit. Here\u2019s some advice for the first-time backpacker:<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    Hyderabad<\/em><\/p>\n

    By train: <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Train is one of the most economical and practical ways to get around the country. Save from some of the most remote and mountainous regions, great swathes of the country are covered by the rail network \u2013 and it\u2019s a fantastic way to take in some stunning Indian scenery, from tea plantations to forest-covered peaks. The best piece of advice is to be flexible: trains don\u2019t always run to schedule, and if you take this in your stride, you\u2019ll have a much more relaxed trip.<\/p>\n

    Given India\u2019s sheer scale, journeys are often long \u2013\u00a0that means long-distance trains (usually called \u201cexpress\u201d or \u201cmail\u201d trains) are the ones you\u2019ll most likely find yourself on.<\/p>\n

    Opting for sleeper class is a top way to save some precious sightseeing time in your itinerary. You\u2019ll need to book in advance to secure a bunk since trains across the country can become extremely packed. The overnight carriages are lined with bunks of passable comfort levels and you can pull them down ready for a night\u2019s sleep \u2013 remember to bring a blanket and some ear plugs if you can (and look out for chai wallahs making their way around the carriage, selling steaming sweet tea).<\/p>\n

    An even more budget-friendly (but markedly less comfortable) option is the general, unreserved second class. These are fine for slightly shorter journeys \u2013\u00a0but the rigid seats (should you manage to find one), crowds and lack of space are not recommended for longer trips. At the other end of the scale, AC class is the top grade, with air conditioning, comfy berths and private compartments.<\/p>\n

    There are also pricier fast trains available between some destinations \u2013 usually zipping between major metropolises. Look out for the Shatabdi Express trains that connect some of India\u2019s biggest cities, from New Delhi to Mumbai \u2013 or the Rajdhani Express which joins Delhi up with cities such as Bangalore.<\/p>\n

    Fees vary between classes, train type and, most importantly the duration of your journey \u2013 though they\u2019re always very reasonable. The official Indian Rail website<\/a> can be a little clunky, so the best way to calculate your fare accurately is by using sites such as ClearTrip<\/a> \u2013 ClearTrip will allow you to plan your journey, check various routes, available classes and fares, and book your trip. You can also book through the sleek Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation website<\/a>, which is geared up for foreign travellers.<\/p>\n

    Finally, you make reservations at the train station, but expect lengthy waits.<\/p>\n

    Unfortunately, the popular IndRail pass, which allowed tourists unlimited travel during a fixed period, was discontinued in late 2017. It\u2019s yet to be seen whether this will be replaced with another option.<\/p>\n

    By bus: <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Generally, train travel is more comfortable and convenient than bus transit \u2013 but it\u2019s not always an option, particularly in remote Himalayan areas.<\/p>\n

    Like trains, there are a range of bus services and classes available. The most basic and affordable of these are the government-run services, but these are often extremely busy, and the buses are usually a little rickety and worn out.<\/p>\n

    Private services tend to offer a little more comfort, and they generally cover the same number of routes. However, be aware that some private services may not have breakdown cover.<\/p>\n

    Classes range from \u201cordinary\u201d to \u201csemi-deluxe\u201d, \u201cdeluxe\u201d or \u201csuper deluxe\u201d. The gradings are a little woolly and cannot always be relied upon \u2013\u00a0but \u201cordinary\u201d options are the cheapest, usually with harder seating and very little room. The higher-band options should boast more comfortable seating and increased space (though this is not guaranteed). Some \u201csuper deluxe\u201d services may also have air con.<\/p>\n

    Bookings will depend on the service you plump for. If you opt for a \u201cdeluxe\u201d option, be it a private or government-run service, you should be able to book in advance (either at the bus station or online through websites such as redBus<\/a>). If you decide to travel on an \u201cordinary\u201d service, you\u2019ll not be able to book and will need to squeeze on as best you can when the bus arrives.<\/p>\n

    By car: <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Indian roads are notoriously chaotic \u2013 expect people and cattle amidst the traffic, and rickshaws weaving between the fast-moving cars. If you\u2019re up in the mountains, the roads\u2019 sheer drops and switchbacks can be even more perilous.<\/p>\n

    It\u2019s therefore not recommended that foreign travellers drive in India. If you\u2019re desperate for the freedom of the road, and wish to reach the most remote of places, it\u2019s best to hire a driver along with your car (this is very common in India).<\/p>\n

    Costs will vary depending on the type of car you choose, and the length of your journey \u2013 cars can usually be arranged through your accommodation or at the tourist office. Reputable companies include Car Rental Delhi<\/a> in northern India, and Swagatam Tours<\/a> which run across the country.<\/p>\n

    By rickshaw: <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    An auto-rickshaw or \u201ctuk tuk\u201d is one of the most iconic modes of transport in India. You\u2019ll see them zig-zagging between the traffic, laden with tourists and locals alike. Always agree a price before hopping in, since most drivers don\u2019t use their meter. Usually you shouldn\u2019t expect to pay more than about Rs25 to travel a few kilometres. There\u2019ll usually be an extra charge to transport luggage.<\/p>\n

    Accommodation in India<\/h2>\n

    India has no shortage of hostels, from inner-city spots with lively hangout areas to peaceful retreats away from the hustle and bustle. We\u2019ve picked our favourite options in India\u2019s backpacker hotspots:<\/p>\n

    \u00a0The best hostels in Delhi:<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    For solo travellers: <\/strong>The Madpacker\u2019s Hostel<\/a>\u00a0is an all-round winner with a snug common room and pretty rooftop garden perfect for getting to know other travellers. They also organise foodie and sightseeing tours, and they can hook you up with motorcycle rentals and more.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    Madpackers Hostel Rooftop<\/em><\/p>\n

    For socialising:<\/strong> An After Story<\/a> has ample space for making new friends, from a caf\u00e9 and gaming areas, to a sprawling terrace and shared lounge. Dorms range from basic to superior and there are private rooms if you\u2019d prefer some quiet time after hanging with your new-found friends.<\/p>\n

    For relaxation: <\/strong>Roots Hostel<\/a> is the one for a truly serene getaway. Located in the south of the city, away from its pulsating heart, the hostel has a plunge pool (very welcome in Delhi\u2019s sticky heat) and tranquil gardens. A rooftop area grants sweeping views around the city\u2019s sought-after Sainik Farms area<\/p>\n

    For privacy<\/strong>: Letsbunk Poshtel<\/a> has stylish, Scandi-chic private rooms with en suite bathrooms, ideal for couples. It feels almost like a boutique hotel, though there\u2019s a buzzing lobby area and comfortable dorm rooms if you\u2019re craving the hostel vibe.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    Letsbunk Poshtel<\/em><\/p>\n

    The best hostels in Mumbai: <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    For solo travellers: <\/strong>A bright, friendly spot, The Social Space<\/a> boasts colourful communal areas with plenty of books and board games, plus mixed and single-sex dorms fitting up to 12 people. Staff brimming with local knowledge are also on hand.<\/p>\n

    For socialising:<\/strong> If it\u2019s a community feel you\u2019re after, then look no further than Horn OK please Hostel<\/a>. Buzzing kitchen and living areas offer travellers plenty of places to mingle, while hostel staff are dedicated to showing backpackers the best of Mumbai, from the top night spots to offbeat local favourites. Private and dorm rooms are available.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    Horn OK Please Hostel<\/em><\/p>\n

    For relaxation: <\/strong>Away from the rumble of central Mumbai, Basti \u2013\u00a0A Backpacker\u2019s Hostel<\/a> prides itself on its laid-back vibe. You can get cosy in a bright dorm or private room, themed by various Indian villages, and fill up on a traditional breakfast come morning.<\/p>\n

    For privacy:<\/strong> Relaxed Hostel Mantra<\/a> is ideal for couples, and those in need of some quiet time after a busy day\u2019s exploration. The rooftop chill zone is a great space to let any travel stresses seep away, while generous private rooms offer refuge for weary travellers. If you feel like socialising, though, there\u2019s a common room both in and outdoors, and you can bond over the homemade breakfast included in the price of your stay.<\/p>\n

    The best hostels in Agra, Uttar Pradesh<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    For socialising: <\/strong>You\u2019ll have no trouble finding new travel buddies at Bedweiser Backpackers Hostel<\/a>, a cordial venue in Agra\u2019s southeast. The hangout area is trendy, with murals and piles of colourful cushions, while the onsite caf\u00e9 is urbane and graffiti washed. A games room and big screen adds to the fun, with private rooms, single-sex and mixed dorms available.<\/p>\n

    For solo travellers: <\/strong>If you\u2019re a lone backpacker looking for some extra support and comfort, plump for Pyrenees Hostel by Indian Culture<\/a>. More a homestay than a hostel, the family-owned accommodation is quiet and comfortable with locals on hand to ply you with travel tips. You\u2019ll also be able to gorge on Agran delicacies and the property is located less than half an hour from the Taj Mahal.<\/p>\n

    For relaxation: <\/strong>Gostops Agra<\/a> is a seriously stylish spot, with its block-coloured furniture and mural-adorned walls. It\u2019s also an oasis of calm, with a pocket-sized library and relaxing chai sessions. Once you\u2019ve recharged, it\u2019s a 15-minute walk from the Taj Mahal.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    Go Stops Hostel<\/em><\/p>\n

    For privacy:<\/strong> Couples and solitude seekers should check into Moustache Hostel Agra<\/a>. An elegant \u201cposhtel\u201d, it boasts stained glass, airy rooms and a spacious terrace with views of the Taj Mahal. Superior double rooms are available.<\/p>\n

    The best hostels in Jaipur, Rajasthan <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    For solo travellers: <\/strong>Quirky Bunkstop<\/a> is a dream for solo travellers. Part of a small chain, the Jaipur location is plonked in the centre of the city, and you\u2019ll get free transit from the railway or bus station to the hostel. There\u2019s also not one, but two, game-filled common areas, three terraces and private and dorm rooms, both deluxe and standard.<\/p>\n

    For socialising: <\/strong>If it\u2019s a party you\u2019re after, Doodle Rack<\/a> is the place to be. The hostel offers discounts on nearby nightclubs and lays on karaoke nights and other fun events for its guests. There are also BBQ facilities, plus areas to play squash and darts, so you\u2019ll have plenty of ways to break the ice with fellow travellers.<\/p>\n

    For relaxation: <\/strong>The family-run Vinayak Guesthouse<\/a> will make you feel right at home in no time at all. In a quiet spot a little way from the bustle of Jaipur\u2019s centre, the charming hostel has a rooftop restaurant doling out Indian delicacies and both shared and private rooms \u2013 some of the latter even have balconies.<\/p>\n

    For privacy:<\/strong> Chic Hoztel Jaipur<\/a> is a great bet for couples, with superior private rooms, and privacy curtains in the dorms too. Helpful staff and close proximity to public transport links means you can whizz off on day\u2019s adventure with no fuss at all.<\/p>\n

    The best hostels in Goa <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    For solo travellers: <\/strong>With a rooftop strung with fairy lights and musical instruments left for travellers in the common room, Gypsys Hotel<\/a> is a veritable hippie haven. The home-cooked Indian food will feed your soul as well as your belly, and you\u2019ll be a stone\u2019s throw from Anjuna beach, famed for its legendary trance parties.<\/p>\n

    For socialising:<\/strong> Fun-filled Pappi Chulo<\/a> has psychedelic walls, its own bar, a garden-cum-nightclub and resident pets. After the party, rest your head in a private room or dorm, papered with movie posters.<\/p>\n

    For relaxing: <\/strong>The Funky Monkey Hostel<\/a> has relaxation at its heart. Join a morning yoga session or relax in the leafy garden and think back on the day\u2019s adventures. This one\u2019s also close to Anjuna beach and the town\u2019s seaside flea market.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    The Funky Monkey Hostel<\/em><\/p>\n

    For privacy: <\/strong>A 19th-century Portuguese villa, this one kicks things up a gear. The Nest by Hostelology<\/a> is tucked in farmland and forestland, but still almost touching distance from Goa\u2019s backpacker highlights. Sink into bed in a deluxe private room or a comfy dorm and wake to yoga in the morning.<\/p>\n

    The best hostels in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    For solo travel and socialising: <\/strong>Sowparnika Hermitage<\/a>\u2019s bright living area, complete with plush chairs and yoga mats, make this one a winner for the solo traveller. Bond with your peers over a home-cooked breakfast in the morning and ask the friendly family owners for travel tips throughout your stay.<\/p>\n

    \"the<\/p>\n

    Sowparnika Hermitage Hostel<\/em><\/p>\n

    For relaxation: <\/strong>It doesn\u2019t get much more peaceful than this. From yoga on the rooftop to a free pickup from the bus or train station, the locals who run Tantraa Homestay<\/a> ensure your trip is stress free. Other highlights include guided tours of the city and seafood dinners if you provide the fresh fish.<\/p>\n

    For privacy:<\/strong> Sithara Homestay<\/a> is a peaceful hideaway conveniently close to some of Kochi\u2019s top sights. Couples will appreciate the ample double rooms, and there\u2019s also a family apartment available if you\u2019re travelling with the whole clan.<\/p>\n

    Travel costs in India<\/h2>\n

    The currency:<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    India\u2019s currency is the rupee, with Rs100 equal to \u00a31.09 or $1.41. The rupee is a closed currency, meaning you\u2019re not permitted to take more than Rs25,000 (just under \u00a3300) out of the country.<\/p>\n

    \"backpacking<\/p>\n

    Budgeting: <\/strong><\/h3>\n

    India is an extremely affordable place to travel, and \u2013\u00a0depending on your choice of restaurants and accommodation \u2013\u00a0you can easily get by while spending very little. Remember that touristy spots such as Goa will require more money than more remote or rural parts of the country.<\/p>\n

    Hostels:<\/strong> A dorm bed in a hostel can be as little as Rs400 (approx \u00a34.30\/$5.60) per night\u2013 private rooms will of course be more, though you\u2019ll be able to find them for as little as Rs550 (\u00a36\/$7.70) per night.<\/p>\n

    Eating out: <\/strong>The costs of meals depends greatly on your preferences: you could choose to eat a top meal in a Western-style hotel (it will still be less than you\u2019d expect), but you can equally enjoy a delicious traditional feast for a fraction of the price. A thali at a low-key restaurant can be as little as Rs150 (\u00a31.64\/$2.10).<\/p>\n

    Transport: <\/strong>Daily budgeting for transport costs is almost impossible \u2013 an eight-hour overnight journey will obviously cost more than a quick jaunt across town in a rickshaw. The route between Delhi and Agra is a good cost marker, since it\u2019s a journey many a backpacker will make: for this four-hour route, you can pay as little as Rs156 (\u00a31.70\/$2.19) for a sleeper class or Rs750 (\u00a38.20\/$10.50) for AC class.<\/p>\n

    Alcohol\/nightlife: <\/strong>You should expect to pay around Rs100 (\u00a31.09\/$1.40) for a pint of beer. Nightclubs and bars aren\u2019t a formative part of India\u2019s culture, and many are aimed at foreign travellers or wealthier Indians \u2013\u00a0this means that, though still easier on the pocket than a night out in the west, drinking is not one of India\u2019s most budget-friendly activities.<\/p>\n

    Groceries: <\/strong>You\u2019ll be able to shop for groceries for very cheap prices in India. Two pints of milk costs an average of Rs50 (\u00a30.55\/$0.70), while a loaf of bread will come in at around Rs30 (\u00a30.33\/$0.46).<\/p>\n

    Toiletries: <\/strong>Toiletries are also fairly affordable. A regular bottle of shampoo will be around Rs200 (\u00a32.15\/$2.80), while a tube of toothpaste should be less than Rs100 (\u00a31.09\/$1.40).<\/p>\n

    Activities: <\/strong>If you do everything else on the cheap, sightseeing will likely take the greatest chunk out of your daily budget, since many of India\u2019s historic sites will charge a higher entrance fee to foreign tourists. Tourists must pay\u00a0Rs1,000 (\u00a310.90\/$14) for the Taj Mahal, while you\u2019ll pay Rs550 (\u00a36.00\/$770) to visit Agra Fort.<\/p>\n

    Top budgeting tips: <\/strong><\/h3>\n