India
South Asia • IND
Last updated: October 11, 2026
India is a vibrant, culturally rich nation known for its diverse landscapes, ancient history, and bustling cities. From the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to the tropical beaches of Kerala, it offers a deeply immersive travel experience that delights the senses.
Visa Requirements
Most international tourists require an e-Visa, which can be applied for online at least four days before the intended date of arrival.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Recent passport-sized digital photograph
- Scanned copy of the passport's bio page
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Completed online application form
Popular Attractions
The Taj Mahal in Agra is a breathtaking white-marble mausoleum and a global symbol of eternal love.
The Pink City of Jaipur features stunning forts, royal palaces, and vibrant markets that showcase Rajasthan's heritage.
Varanasi, one of the world's oldest living cities, is famous for its spiritual ghats along the sacred River Ganges.
The backwaters of Kerala provide a serene escape through tranquil canals, lush greenery, and unique houseboat experiences.
Ranthambore National Park is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to spot wild tigers in their natural habitat.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always remove your shoes before entering temples, mosques, or someone's home to show respect.
Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, or passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious or rural sites.
It is customary to ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, particularly women and elderly people.
The 'Namaste' gesture, pressing palms together, is the standard and polite way to greet people.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon and considered inappropriate in Indian society.
Safety Tips
Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses and stomach issues.
Stick to busy, well-lit tourist areas and avoid walking alone in deserted places after dark.
Use reputable ride-sharing apps or pre-paid taxi services at airports to ensure fair pricing and safety.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and visa stored in a secure location separate from your originals.
Be wary of unsolicited offers from strangers or self-proclaimed guides who may attempt to overcharge or scam tourists.
Dress conservatively to blend in with the environment and reduce unwanted attention.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers aged 9 months or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to India. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to India.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to India. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before travel, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination recommended for all travelers.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination recommended for all travelers.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have exposure to blood or body fluids, especially healthcare workers.
View sourceRabies vaccine for high-risk activities
Source: CDC
If you will be involved in activities that may expose you to dogs or other animals, consider rabies vaccination.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended for all travelers due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns worldwide.
View sourceMalaria precautions and measures
Source: CDC
If you are traveling to areas where malaria transmission occurs, take preventive measures.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Vaccination recommended due to potential exposure through food and water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date for all travelers.
View sourceSafe food and water practices
Source: CDC
Avoid contaminated food and water to prevent illnesses like travelers' diarrhea.
Eat foods that have been fully cooked and served hot. Do not eat fresh vegetables or fruits unless you can wash or peel them yourself.
View sourceInsect repellent
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya.
Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus/para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone.
View sourceHand hygiene
Source: CDC
Wash your hands often, especially before eating, to avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of illness.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention measures (e.g., insect repellent, bed nets)
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insect bites.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (e.g., MMR, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Get these vaccines before traveling to ensure protection against common diseases.
View sourceFood and water precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe eating and drinking by consuming bottled or boiled water and cooked foods.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Necessary to reduce the risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and Japanese encephalitis.
Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and use bed nets.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Crucial to prevent enteric infections; consume only safe water and thoroughly cooked food.
Drink bottled water and avoid ice and raw foods.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food or water in India.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for those who might have contact with blood or bodily fluids, or sexual contact.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent insect-borne diseases (such as malaria, dengue, or Japanese encephalitis) by using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and sleeping in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Practice food and water precautions to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other infections. Eat only food that is cooked and served hot, and drink only bottled or treated water.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis (if visiting rural areas)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to certain rural areas.
View sourceRabies (consider based on activities)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers involved in activities with exposure to animals.
Consult a healthcare provider for a personalized assessment.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and consider insecticide-treated gear.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers planning to spend significant time in rural areas or during transmission seasons.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended for adults at risk of sexual exposure or exposure to blood.
View sourceCholera
Source: CDC
Consider if traveling to areas of active cholera transmission, especially in humanitarian crises.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers spending extended time in rural areas or during seasons when cases are higher.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas below 2000m
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country including urban and rural areas
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Most areas of India below 2,000 meters
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country except urban areas
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round in some regions; peak transmission May to October
View sourceRisk Area: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Areas with risk of malaria transmission in India
Chemoprophylaxis: Recommended
Seasonality: Year-round
View source