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India

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Travel tips

Winter

Dec-Feb

Average temperature:

North India: 0°C-15°C
South India: 20°C-25°C

Approximate rainfall:

North India: 13mm/month
South India: 25mm/month

Summer/Pre-monsoon

Mar-Jun

Average temperature:

North India: 32°C-40°C
South India: 32°C-35°C

Approximate rainfall:

North India: 13mm/month
South India: 51mm/month

Monsoon

Jun-Sep

Average temperature:

North India: 28°C
South India: 27°C

Approximate rainfall:

North India: 381mm/month
South India: 457mm/month

Post-monsoon

Oct-Nov

Average temperature:

North India: 27°C
South India: 28°C

Approximate rainfall:

North India: 25mm/month
South India: 152mm/month

three Bengal Tigers walking alot a road with a safari vehicle following

Country dialing code

+91

Capital city

New Delhi

Official language

Hindi and English

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Generally, the most popular time to travel to India is from December to February when the weather is milder and more comfortable with lower humidity across most of the country. Days are still warm to hot and nights mild to warm. The vibrant cities, historic temples and forts of northern India are best explored from December to March. This is also a good time to enjoy the beaches of southern India and wildlife safaris in national parks. March to May is generally very hot, humid and dusty with daytime maximums easily reaching the low 40s as the weather builds towards the monsoon season. June to October is monsoon season when temperatures and humidity are high and rains heavy. October and November are good times to travel to India if you prefer to encounter fewer fellow tourists and milder weather.

    Highlights

    Delhi

    A sprawling city with an eclectic mix of experiences. Old Delhi is a bustling labyrinth of alleys, markets, noise and vibrancy, while in New Delhi modern tree-lined avenues are home to grand government buildings.

    Rajasthan

    As one of India’s most colourful states, Rajasthan conjures images of bazaars, maharajahs and palaces. This is the India of your imagination, with the splendour and romance of Rajasthan evident at every turn. 

    Varanasi

    Colourful, chaotic and unapologetically real. As one Hinduism's seven holy cities, the ghats lining the River Ganges are where intimate rituals of life and death take place for all to see.

    Kerala Backwaters

    The Kerala backwaters in India’s south are a serene network of lagoons, lakes, and canals known for their tranquil beauty, unique houseboat cruises and glimpse into local village life.

    National Parks

    From the iconic Ranthambore National Park to Corbett National Park and the lush Periyar National Park, these sanctuaries protect endemic species including Bengal Tigers, Leopards and Asian Elephants.

    Cuisine

    North Indian cuisine features rich, creamy dishes like butter chicken and naan, using dairy and aromatic spices. South Indian cuisine is known for its spicy, coconut-based dishes like dosa and sambar (stew).

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    Communications

    Country Code for India: +91 

     

    Official Travel advice visit: 

    India Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

    IndiaSafe Travel NZ | India (New Zealand) 

     

    All emergencies: Call 112; Fire and rescue services: Call 101; Medical emergencies: Call 102; Police: Call 100.  
    Australian High Commission, New Delhi 

    No. 1/50 G Shantipath (Gate 1), Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021 

    Phone: (+91 11) 4139 9900 

    Email: ahc.newdelhi@dfat.gov.au  

      

    Australian Consulate-General, Mumbai 

    Level 10, A Wing, Crescenzo Building, Opp MCA Cricket Club, G Block, Plot C 38-39, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai 400 051 

    Phone: (+91 22) 6757 4900 

    Email: cg.mumbai@dfat.gov.au  

      

    Australian Consulate-General, Chennai 

    9th Floor, Express Chambers, Express Avenue Estate, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai 600 014, Tamil Nadu 

    Phone: (+91 44) 4592 1300 

    Email: chennaiaustralianconsulate@dfat.gov.au  

      

    Australian Consulate-General, Kolkata 

    1A, Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Kolkata 700 071, West Bengal 

    Phone: (+91 11) 4910 5980 

    Email: acg.kolkata@dfat.gov.au  

      

    Australian Consulate-General, Bengaluru 

    The Ritz-Carlton, 99 Residency Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025 

    Phone: (+91 11) 4910 5960 

    Email: ACG.Bengaluru@dfat.gov.au  

     

    New Zealand High Commission New Delhi, India 

    Sir Edmund Hillary Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India 

    Telephone: +91 11 4688 3170 

    Email: nzhcindia@mfat.net  

      

    New Zealand Consulate-General Mumbai, India 

    Level 6, 3 North Avenue, Maker Maxity, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai 400 051, India 

    Telephone: +91 22 6131 6666 

    Email: nzcg.mumbai@nzte.govt.nz  

    Customs

    India is a country rich in traditions and understanding its cultural etiquette can make your trip more enjoyable. 

      

    A traditional greeting is "Namaste" with palms together and a slight bow. Handshakes are common in business settings but avoid physical contact with the opposite gender unless initiated. Elders are highly respected so treat them accordingly. Modest clothing is recommended, especially in rural areas and at religious sites. Women should cover shoulders and knees. Patience, friendliness and courtesy are highly valued in India. You may be stared at, particularly in rural areas. This may seem unnerving, but it is generally just curiosity, and you should not take offence. 

      

    Remove your shoes before entering temples and some homes. Public displays of affection (hugging, kissing) are considered inappropriate. Avoid pointing with your finger. Gesture with your whole hand instead. Eat with your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean. 

      

    Always ask permission before taking photos of people. Some temples and religious sites prohibit photography, so please respect all local rules. 

      

    Roads are chaotic and pedestrians do not generally have the right of way. Be very cautious when crossing streets and use designated crossings.

    Electricity

    India primarily uses three types of plug sockets: 

    • Type C: A 2-pin plug commonly found in Europe. 
    • Type D: A 3-pin plug that is one of the most common in India. 
    • Type M: Another 3-pin plug, similar to Type D but with larger pins. 

    The standard voltage in India is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you're traveling from Australia or New Zealand, you'll need a plug adapter, as both use Type I plugs. You won't need a voltage converter, since both countries use 230V.

    Health

    The following information is intended as a guide only and in no way should it be used as a substitute for professional medical advice relative to a traveller's individual needs and vaccination history. No guarantee is made as to its accuracy or thoroughness. For further information, please contact The Travel Doctor.  
     
    Strains of influenza occur throughout India and insect-borne diseases are common. Malaria is a risk in many parts of India, including major cities. Dengue is widespread, especially during the monsoon season. Zika virus outbreaks may occur. Other insect-borne diseases include Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya and filariasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent, get vaccinated and if you're pregnant, discuss with your doctor. 

     

    Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are very common. Drink only bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked food. 

     

    Air pollution can reach dangerous levels, especially in winter. Discuss your travel plans with a doctor if you have an existing health condition.  

     

    Official Travel advice visit: 

    India Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

    IndiaSafe Travel NZ | India (New Zealand) 

    How to Get There & Getting Around

    India has many major international airports including Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR), and Chennai (MAA).  

    India has a vast and diverse transportation network. Trains are affordable and connect almost every part of the country. Express trains are called Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Vande Bharat – they’re faster, more comfortable and recommended for international travellers. Flying between cities is a great option if you want to save time and airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate frequent domestic flights. 

    Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata have modern metro systems that are fast and efficient. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also common, along with rideshare services such as Uber and Ola. 

    Holidays & Festivals

    India is home to a huge array of festivals and celebrations, each offering a unique cultural experience. 

    • Jaisalmer Desert Festival (January-February): Held in and around the dramatic fort city of Jaisalmer, the desert festival is a celebration of local culture. 
    • Holi (March):  An ancient Hindu festival celebrated mostly in the north of India, Holi heralds the arrival of spring. where people throw brightly coloured powders over themselves and everyone else nearby. 
    • Navaratri and Durga Puja (March-April): Celebrates Goddess Durga with dance, music, and processions. 
    • Ganesh Chaturthi (August-September): A spectacular days-long festival honouring Ganesha. Images of the elephant-headed god are created and paraded throughout the country. 
    • Diwali (October): The “Festival of Lights” which celebrates the triumph of light over dark, is marked by fireworks, lamps, and grand celebrations. 

    Language

    Hindi is the most widely spoken language, with English also widely spoken. 

    Tipping

    The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and in markets. Make sure you have some smaller denominations. Mobile payment apps like Google Pay and Paytm are commonly used. ATMs are available, but some may not accept foreign cards. 

    In restaurants a 5-10% tip is appreciated in mid-range and high-end restaurants. Some bills include a service charge. Porters appreciate 50-200 INR per bag. If you take a taxi or auto-rickshaw, round up your fare. Consider tipping tour guides 200-500 INR for good service. 

    Monuments and temples where you are required to remove your shoes will often charge a small fee for shoe minding - usually INR 10-20. Toilets often have an attendant and there may be a small charge of INR 10-20; if not, a small tip of a similar amount to the attendant is appreciated. 

    India offers a huge variety of souvenirs, from textiles to spices. Pashmina shawls, handmade jewellery (especially in Jaipur), spices and tea in Kerala, colourful sarees, kurtas and embroidered fabrics are available in markets like Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi) and Johari Bazaar (Jaipur). Rajasthan is known for its intricate pottery and wooden carvings. 

    Visas

    The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

     

    Australian and New Zealand passport holders 

    You must apply for a visa when travelling to India. Check if you're eligible for an e-visa on the Indian Visa Online website. You may be eligible for an Electronic Visa (e-Visa) if travelling for tourism purposes.  

     

    Get your e-Visa before travelling. You will not be able to get a visa on arrival.  Indian Tourist e-Visas can be granted for 30 days, one year or five years. Detailed information regarding your visa validity and the maximum length of stay for each visa category can be found on the Indian Visa Online and Ministry of Home Affairs websites.      

     

    Carry a printed copy of your e-Visa, known as an electronic travel authorisation (ETA). You'll get a formal visa in your passport when you arrive in India. Long queues are common at immigration counters in India, regardless of visa type. Not all international airports in India allow passengers to enter with an e-Visa. Check with your nearest Indian consulate, embassy or agent and organise a visa before you arrive. 

    Official Travel advice visit: 

    India Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

    IndiaSafe Travel NZ | India (New Zealand) 

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