India

India is large enough that regions function like separate countries: Himalayan north, desert Rajasthan, Mughal plains, backwater Kerala and the coastline of Goa. Trains connect almost everywhere, slowly and cheaply. Most first trips pick one circuit rather than trying to cross the country.

Cities

Jaipur

Jaipur was laid out in 1727 on a grid, with its old city painted pink and enclosed by walls and gates. Forts stand in the hills above, and the bazaars in the centre still work by trade: jewellers in one lane, textiles in the next. It is the usual first stop on the Rajasthan circuit.

Udaipur

Udaipur is built around a chain of artificial lakes with the Aravalli hills behind, and its white palaces reflect in the water at close range. The city palace complex runs along the shoreline, and boats cross to island palaces in the middle of Lake Pichola. It is noticeably calmer than Jaipur or Jodhpur.

When to go

See all seasons

• Hot season: Very hot on the plains; hill stations and the Himalaya come into season.
• Monsoon: Heavy rain across most of the country; green landscapes in the south.
• Post-monsoon: Rain clearing, festivals beginning, comfortable temperatures.

Entry & visas

Entry rules for this country aren't published here yet.

Always confirm entry rules with the official source before you book.