Population of approximately 1.43 billion � The most populous country in the world, with immense cultural and linguistic diversity.
Official Languages: Hindi, English | Other Languages: 21 officially recognized languages, including Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil, Urdu, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Punjabi, Malayalam
Capital: New Delhi | Major Cities: Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune
A highly diverse culture with deep religious, linguistic, and historical roots. Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Sikhism influence daily life, festivals, and traditions across different regions.
Indian rupee (INR); symbolized by ?, it has a long history dating back to ancient India.
Known for a wide variety of regional dishes including biryani, butter chicken, dosas, samosas, paneer tikka, and a range of flavorful curries and street foods.
Varied climate: Tropical in the south, temperate in the north, and alpine in the Himalayas; monsoon season from June to September.
Notable wildlife includes Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, Indian leopards, one-horned rhinos, sloth bears, cobras, and an incredible diversity of bird species.
Cultural Considerations
Respect for elders: Elders are highly respected in India, and it is customary to greet them first in social settings. It's also common to touch the feet of elders as a sign of respect.
Modesty in dress: Modesty in dress is important, especially in rural areas and religious places. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees when entering temples.
Avoid public displays of affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are generally frowned upon in India, especially in rural areas.
Remove shoes before entering homes or temples: It�s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone�s home or a religious site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visa requirements for U.S. travelers?
For up-to-date visa requirements, please visit our Visas & Entry Requirements page. You can use our interactive widget to easily check specific visa details, or find useful links and information related to entry requirements.
What are health and safety considerations for travelers?
India has various health risks, including foodborne illnesses, malaria, and dengue fever. Travelers should take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent. It�s advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues. The healthcare system is good in major cities but limited in rural areas, so travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential.