Visiting India for the first time, well you have made a great choice of destination, and you will surely have a wonderful experience you will cherish for life. What goes into your mind when you think of India, almost the world’s most populous country India has something for each kind of traveler, so if you are in search of spirituality or yoga India is for you, if you are looking for cultural immersion, India is for you, If you intend to experience architectural wonders India is for you and there is much more that you can experience in this country. There can be some thoughts in the back of your mind while you are packing for India, this guide for first-time travelers to India will ensure you are well-prepared to experience the best of India.

The thing you should get sorted for your travel to India?

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Be ready for the experience of a lifetime

India is unlike any other place you have been, this country is unique in every sense. From bustling cities to peaceful mountains and chaotic crowds which can be perceived by all your five senses. The moment you are out of the airport you will see people clothed in vibrant colors, cars honking to reach their destination in time, chants going around in temples, animals on the streets, and people asking for alms at traffic lights. India is unlike the world you come from it is a different feeling for which you must be prepared to accept, but trust me it will make every moment count.

Planning your travel beforehand

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India is a large country and it is difficult to travel the whole country in one, therefore it is important to be prepared with your travel plans, to not waste time in thinking and planning when in India. Be prepared with a list of destinations you are going to cover as per your travel preference. Take it slow when in India as travel distances are long and the traffic in India can be chaotic sometimes. Also, you get to experience the remote parts of the country when traveling from one city to another and you don’t know what you get to see on the way.

If you would like to get a customized travel itinerary that helps you better explore India you can connect with our travel experts at – info@vijayindiatours.com.

Remain vigilant in Crowd

Is India safe to travel? Yes it is, but some places like monuments, places of worship, and markets can be crowded, it is advised to be vigilant of your belongings in crowded places. If you feel anything suspicious or uncomfortable you can ask the person – Kya Hua? – What happened? or if there is something wrong happening to you, it’s better to scream. This will attract the attention of the people around you who would come to your rescue since guests in Indian culture are termed equivalent to gods “Attithi Devo Bhavah”, you will experience it when you travel through India.

Dressing up as per the occasion and location

India is a bit conservative when it comes to clothing, especially in the rural areas and places of worship, it is advised to dress up modestly covering your arms and shoulders at these places. Well, if you are going to the beaches in Goa you definitely don’t need to cover your body. It is advisable to carry a piece of cloth on your first visit to India, it can come in handy to cover yourself if you have any instant plan changes. Also, going through our detailed post on what to wear in India can be a useful guide on the subject.

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Food in India

Indian cuisine is famous all across the globe for its flavor, aroma, and spices. When visiting India for the first time it is advisable to stick to freshly prepared and well-cooked meals in the beginning to avoid Delhi belly in India and make your body accustomed to Indian cuisine. Once you are comfortable you can cherish the delicious foods of India. In India, you get to experience a wide range of cuisines as most states have their own food, so you are in for a feast when traveling to India.

Communication in the country

Well, in India your home number would be active if you have an international plan, it would be a bit expensive. It is advised to buy an Indian sim card at the airport which can be availed by providing your passport copy to the vendor. All across the country most hotels offer wifi service which can be helpful, also it is essential to keep the numbers of your embassy handy in case of any emergency. The tourist helpline number in India is – 1800111363, also 112 is the local helpline number.

Mode of Transportation

You have the choice of going around the country by taxi, bus, train, or flight, since India is a large country sometimes the distances can be too much to travel by car or bus, and trains and flights can be comfortable for traveling from far-off cities. In cities, you can book an Uber, or take a tuk-tuk ride but in remote regions, you should have a taxi to travel as local transport may not be readily available. Since you are visiting India for the first time it is advisable to book a taxi to travel across the country unless you are doing long distances.

Bargaining can help

Learn to bargain when shopping in the local markets, certainly, not all places would accept your prices but you can save a few dollars here and there when shopping. The Indian markets are vibrant and cheap and it’s difficult to keep a timeline when shopping in India. The best bargain trick is to offer your price and move on, if the shopkeeper is keen to sell they will offer the best price he can once you start to walk away.

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Which country comes to your mind when you think of yoga – India, well yoga in India originated thousands of years ago and has been in practice since then. Yoga is a spiritual discipline that focuses on bringing harmony between the body and the soul, the word Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning to unite, and one whose individual consciousness unites with the universe is known as a YOGI. Yoga is a blend of physical, mental, and breathing practices that help boost the overall well-being of humans. This ancient practice is widely acclaimed all across the world today and there is a special day to celebrate this revered practice on 21 June every year, which is celebrated as International Yoga Day. India was the birthplace of yoga and experiencing yoga in India is surreal, you get to learn the original practice preserved in its root form from expert yoga teachers.

Yoga is believed to be a cure for many physical and mental illnesses, and this is the reason Yoga is becoming so popular all across the globe due to its proven effects on multiple illnesses. This blog section describes the effects of yoga on various diseases. The first mention of yoga is found in Rig Veda and other Indian texts including the Upanishads, and Bhagwat Gita, while Patanjali Yogasutras offers a complete collection of texts on yoga in India. Yoga is practiced in many forms and the 20th century this ancient practice has seen a rapid growth in the number of practitioners due to the growing number of diseases and illnesses among people to which yoga is the best cure.

The are 19 various forms of Yoga, some of which are listed below –

• Yama (five abstentions),
• Niyama (five observances),
• Asana (Postures),
• Pranayama (Suspending Breath),
• Pratyahara (Abstraction),
• Dharana (Concentration),
• Dhyana (Meditation),
• Samadhi (Fully integrated Consciousness),
• Bandhas (Lock) & Mudras (Gestures),
• Shat-karmas (Cleansing practices),
• Yukta-ahara, (Holistic food),
• Yukta karma (Right Action)
• Mantra japa (Chanting of the Sacred Words)

Yoga was introduced to the Western world by Swami Vivekanand in the 1890s in the United States along with other famous saints. Later he was taking world conferences on the subject making the world of this ancient practice. Today everyone across the globe is well-versed in yoga and practiced by millions of people. This is only possible because of the positive benefits it has on human health which is visible over a period of time of regular practice.

Rishikesh Yoga Capital of the World –

When it comes to learning and practicing yoga, Rishikesh, India is the place to be. This city on the banks of the river Ganges is one of the holiest cities of India and home to numerous yoga ashrams where once yoga was performed and taught to students by revered saints of yoga. The city of Rishikesh is just on the foothill of the great Himalayas and is a perfect place for yoga training in India. The Beatles got this city to fame on the international stage when they visited it in 1968.

Here is a list of Yoga retreats in India to heal your mind, body & soul –

• Rishikesh – Parmarth Niketan, Sanskriti Yogpeeth
• Maharastra – Iyengar Yoga Centre, Kaivalyadhama Ashram
• Tamilnadu – Isha Yoga Centre, International Center for Yoga Education and Research:
• Goa – Purple Valley
• Kerala – Kalari Kovailakom
• Bihar – Bihar School of Yoga
• Karnataka – Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Centre

Planning your travel to India, here is some important information on the best time to visit India.

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India is safe to travel

In the world’s most populous country, there are people from multiple faiths and religions in India, coexisting in harmony. The news you saw about communal violence can be true in some remote regions of the country and it doesn’t impact the whole country as a whole. We rarely see people moving out with guns, fans destroying cities, or radicals creating a ruckus. In India, rapes are not common incidents and today the police are more advanced and equipped with technology that reassures you of safety in any part of the country. Certainly, some aspects need to be handled with care by tourists when in India, one of them would be what to wear in India for women, checking with whom you are partying or being friendly with in some remote region.

Regions in India where extra caution must be practiced

• Bordering areas of the country with Pakistan and China.
• The state of Jammu & Kashmir except Ladakh Region.
• Some parts of the northeastern states are believed to be in unrest.
• Parts of Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal.
  

Travel Advice for Tourists –

There can be a cultural difference from the country you are coming from and therefore it is advised to observe a few safety advice to ensure you have a wonderful time in India. Some caution and you can travel India safely from North to South, and East to West.

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• Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded places in cities.
• Dress up appropriately for the places you ought to visit.
• Observe your tone and volume at places of worship.
• Avoid traveling in remote regions at night.
• Book taxis or other travel arrangements from a trusted travel company in India.
• Avoid beggars and touts by simply ignoring them.
• Drinking alcohol in public places is banned and also keep a measure of your drinks.
• Gay/Lesbian relationships are legally acceptable but not accepted by the community yet.
• Restrain from public display of affection, as it can get unwanted attention for you.
• Smoke at designated places.
• Keep emergency contacts handy which include your embassy numbers, and local emergency number 112.

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India is a huge country to explore, while the list of things to do in India for women can never end, I have curated a list of 13 things to do in India for women that could be helpful on your upcoming trip to India. Well, India is a large country and encompasses a whole continent within itself if we talk about its diversity. Be it the architecture, cuisines, culture, or traditions India is a rich country with a diversity of them all. Having traveled extensively through India, we have curated this list, especially for women travelers seeking to make the most of their time in India. Well, these experiences can equally be cherished by their male counterparts so that you can bring them along.

10 Things to do in India for women travelers –

• Taj Mahal – One of the most visited monuments in the country – The Taj Mahal is the epitome of love created by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This incredible white marble mausoleum is bound to take your heart, be it the architecture or its history Taj Mahal still tops the list of things to do in India for women.
• Varanasi Aarti – Varanasi is older than time and older than history as said by Mark Twain, this holy city on the bank of the Ganges offers a reflection of religion in India. The city is famous for the last rituals and people from all across the country visit this holy city. Experience the Ganga arti in the evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat is bound to leave you mesmerized.
  
• Ballon Safari in Jaipur – Enjoy a balloon Safari in Jaipur that gives you a bird’s eye view of the city’s iconic monuments early in the morning, and watch kids going to schools wave towards you as you fly in a hot air balloon in the rural parts of Jaipur. This unique experience is not to be missed when in Jaipur.
• Orchha – This small town in the heart of India, is a peaceful retreat visit the Orcha palace during the day and spend the evening on the banks of river Betwa at the cenotaphs of the rulers of Orchha, the place is home to endangered Indian vulture, Egyptian vulture and white-backed vultures seen atop the cenotaphs.
• Beaches of Goa – Goa is for sea lovers, the vibe of the state is unparalleled across the country. So if you wish to relax and feel low on vitamin SEA, then Goa is the place to be with numerous beaches all across the state. If you wish to party and chill the Northern beaches are best, for relaxing I would recommend beaches down south of the state.
• Shopping – The list of things to do for women shopping the list would be incomplete without shopping, shop till you drop into the colorful bazaars of India. India is comparatively cheap and you can get everything from clothing, home decor, souvenirs jewelry, and handicrafts within your budget. Also, there are exclusive stores that offer some of the finest quality goods that you can’t find back home.
  
• Tiger Safari – The royal Bengal Tigers can only be found in India, and when in India it is recommended to enjoy the big cats in their natural habitat. India is home to more than 75% tigers of in the world with the number nearing 4000 tigers in the country. One can enjoy great tiger sightings in Ranthambore National Park Safari, and Corbett National Park in the northern region.
• Shekhawati – Take a sneak peek into the open-air museums of Shekhawati, the region is famous for its fresco-painted houses. If you are a lover of art then Shekhawati Rajasthan is the place to be, with beautifully decorated mansions of the rich business families of the region. You also, get to experience the culture & traditions of the small villages and towns of Rajasthan.
  
• Mountains – The Himalayan foothills in the northern part of the country are worthy of a visit, away from the hustle and bustle of cities these green and serene mountains are the perfect place to meditate, and be with yourself. So if you wish to enjoy some serenity add the mountains to your things to do in India list.
• House Boat – Experience living on a houseboat on the backwaters of Allappuzha, Kerala. You get to explore the backwaters during the day and sleep overnight on the houseboat. You can explore the villages on the banks and gain an in-depth experience about life in rural India. Buy fresh fish or vegetables for your evening dinner served by the chef on your houseboat. Enjoy the night in your comfortable room amidst the backwaters.
• Yoga in India – Do you practice yoga? India is the birthplace of yoga and to experience yoga in India is certainly a different feeling. The country has preserved yoga for centuries and one gets to experience the true form of yoga passed down from spiritual masters over the generations. Immerge in a yoga training session beside the holy river Ganges in Rishikesh or book a peaceful yoga retreat down south.

Indian Religions list as per the 2011 Census – Source Wikipedia

• Hindu – 79.8%
• Muslims – 14.2%
• Christians – 2.3%
• Sikhs – 1.7%
• Buddhists – 0.7%
• Jains – 0.4%
• Other incl. Baháʼí Faith, Judaism, Zoroastrians – 0.15%

Hinduism is the biggest religion of India

The ancient Hindu religion which is also called “Sanatan Dharam” in the local language is the most practiced in India, dating back to 4000 years Hinduism has been in the country since time immemorial and is one of the ancient religions of India. They practice sacred worship and rituals to idols and believe in various gods and goddesses it is said there are 0.36 billion gods and goddesses in the Hindu religion. This spirit of people towards their religion, and gods can be visible in every nook and corner of the country and it is a sight that you would create memories you would cherish for life. Be it visiting the temple, or seeking rituals on the rivers and lakes, the Arti, and worship being performed with chanting, dancing, and excitement.

Christianity in India

Christianity is the third most popular religion in India and was introduced to the country in the 6th AD, in the Malabar region which is the present-day Kerela. The country was a colony of Portuguese, like Goa, the presence of the East India Company, and other colonial regions was also a great contributor to the number of Christians in the country. These colonies were an introduction to Christianity and people who wanted to convert their religion were allowed to practice their freedom of religion. There are parts of the country where one can find Christianity dominating the religion, especially in South and East India.

Jews in India

It is said that Judaism was one of the first foreign religions which was introduced in the country in approximately 5000 BC. Most of them established themself in the southwest part of the country. There are multiple synagogues in various cities across the country. Today there are multiple cities like Pushkar and Mc Leodganj in the Himalayas which are home to many Jews who explore the country and enjoy the vibes of the region.

Buddhism in India

Buddhism was born in India, Mahatama Buddha founded Buddhism in 5 BC. He left the pleasures of his kingdom and went on in search of Nirvana or the Eternal Truth under the Bodi tree at Bodh Gaya, near Varanasi. People from all across the globe visit this small town of Bodh Gaya where a museum and stupa are built. Buddhism was born in India and later on, spread and flourished in Southeast Asian countries.

Sikhism in India

Sikhism was founded in the 15th century in the Punjab reason by Guru Nanak, India is home to the largest number of Sikhs in the world. The Sikhs follow the Guru Granth Saheb the holy book which guides them. The community kitchen at Gurudwara – the place of worship of the Sikhs offers free food to everyone in the Langar or the community kitchen.

Muslims in India

Islam started in India with the arrival of Arabs in the country during the 7th Century, with the arrival of the Mughals who ruled a large part of the country, there were significant conversions to Islam. It is the second-largest Indian religion in the country, earlier Muslims settled on the west coast of the country, and later on with the arrival of Mughals who ruled the country, Islam spread in the central part of the country.

Along with the above-mentioned Indian religions, many other religions have flourished in country, given the freedom of religion offered by the country, today one can find people from the Bahai Faith, Jainism, Zoroastrians, and many other religions being practiced in the country. India is a secular state and is guided by the principle of humanity over any specific religion. You are free to practice your preferred religion and culture as long as you are not disturbing or causing trouble to anyone.

The various Indian religions make it unique for those seeking religion, faith, and cultural experience. This vast country is open for all and it is the beauty of India to seek harmony among people from all faiths. They celebrate festivals together and live with peace and harmony, by respecting the religious values of others. The country celebrates the religious spirit of all while maintaining a sense of brotherhood and spirit of patriotism for the country.

Come explore vibrant India with expert tour guides who help you experience the best of the religion of India. Join us on our guided tours across the country to see the places of worship, and the rituals of various religions and understand them in depth when in India.

Note – This blog post is a personal opinion of a citizen of the country, your suggestions are welcome.

Best Places to Visit in India Guide –

We are breaking down this guide into various categories of travellers’ interests which would be fruitful for travelers to decide on their next India travel and enhance their experience of travelling through India. You guys can even thank me later when you are back home.

• Golden Triangle Circuit – If you want to experience the heritage, culture, and tradition of the country in a short span of time the Golden Triangle tour is meant for you, starting at the capital of the country New Delhi which is witness to the rise and fall of many empires including the Rajputs, Mughals, Britishers and the National Parties. Then heading to the wonder of love – Taj Mahal Agra a breathtaking site and the most visited place in India. Moving to the vibrant markets of the Pink City Jaipur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Forts & Palaces – If you are fascinated by architecture and royal tales, then Rajasthan tops the list of places to visit in India. The state was formerly home to Rajput rulers who held their independent kingdoms post-independence which are testimony to the grandeur of the Kings who ruled the region. These are heaven for design and art lovers who have a fascination for vintage and heritage. Preserved in their perfect form you will come across palaces and forts in Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and many smaller estates that are small yet beautiful places. Also, the state is rich in its culture and traditions.
• Mountains – If one wishes to explore the mountains then Northern India and some of the eastern region are the place to be. These are peaceful and serene for nature lovers who want to wade away from the hustle-bustle of cities and towns. The environment is clean with fewer vehicles, smiling people long stretches of mountain ranges, and clean water rivers. The mountains are serene and beautiful, from green mountains to snow-capped you get a diversity of places to visit.
• Beaches – For beach lovers, India is a paradise with its southern parts surrounded by the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal on both sides which makes the coastal line to be around 4600 miles. So for those who enjoy peace amid the sea, India is the place to be. Goa the most famous beach destination in the country is loved by tourists from all over the world, for this Portuguese colony has colonial vibes and a cool culture unmatched anywhere else in the country.
• Wildlife – India is home to a few of the majestic species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Tiger, Rhino, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, and a lot more to see in the Indian Jungles. There are lots of wildlife centuries across the country some of the states and their famous national parks are –
  • Jim Corbett National Park – Uttrakhand
  • Kanha Tiger Reserve – Madhya Pradesh
  • Ranthambore National Park – Rajasthan
  • Kaziranga National Park – Assam
  • Gir National Park – Gujrat
  • Sundarban National Park – West Bengal

A more detailed destination-wise list can be found here.

When is the Pushkar Fair & Mela?

It begins with the start of Kartik month as per the Hindu calendar and typically falls in the month of October or November. The weather is perfect during this time and winters begin in the region which is perfect weather for foreign tourists.

What to expect in Pushkar Fair & Mela?

One can expect to see livestock, men, and women dressed in the traditional attire of Rajasthan, you can experience cultural events and animal competitions. Along with this one can explore the colorful markets of Pushkar come alive during the fair. Experience the traditions and culture of Rajasthan along with the livestock and cattle of the region. One can see horses, buffalos, cows, goats, sheep, and other livestock from the Rajasthan and surrounding region being traded in the Pushkar Mela.

A large number of pilgrims take a dip in the holy lake of Pushkar during the Pushkar Fair, which is believed to wash away the sins of people. One can see the priests on the lake side performing rituals and customs which is a common sight in Pushkar.

Come experience the best of Pushkar Mela with the experts of Rajasthan with Vijay India Tours, our expert professionals make sure you experience the Pushkar fair while understanding the culture and tradition of the region.

Packing for India can be tricky if you think so, but to be honest you can get almost everything in India at a cheaper price than you would pay back home. So keeping that in mind, it is recommended to pack light and the essentials for your upcoming trip to India.

If you looking for the clothing for India section? You can visit our India clothing guide

What to Wear in India Guide

What to pack when travelling to India?

Apart from clothing here are travel essentials for India, which would come in handy all across the country, in all seasons throughout the year, unless you are in Ladakh in peak winters, which requires some serious packing to survive in -20 Celius. Most cities and towns have markets where you can buy items of daily use including toiletries, snacks, filtered water, electric items, medicines, and others.

Essential packaging list for India –

• Documentation – Documents are important wherever you are in the world, having your passport and a local country ID would be helpful. Here is a list of all documents you must carry with you at all times.

1. Passport & Visa – It tops the packing list for India and is a must-have to travel to India, it is recommended to carry copies of your passport and visa at all times. You can keep the original with you or leave them at the hotel that’s up to you. Also, it is advisable to have the embassy number for your country with you, just in case.
2. Local ID –Carrying a copy of your local government ID is advisable, especially if you are a student your student ID can be helpful in getting you a discount on monument tickets.
3. Vaccinations Certificates – It is recommended to visit the official government website to get information on the required vaccines if any for India, to ensure a smooth tour across India. Certificates of vaccinations can be required by the authorities at the airport, so keep them handy when flying.
   Vaccination guide from the UK government.
   Vaccination guide from the USA government.
4. Travel Insurance – If you are insured keeping a copy of your travel insurance can be helpful in case of any mishap. Be informed of your benefits included in the insurance.

• Medications – If you are on prescribed medications, make sure you carry them with you, there will be alternatives available in India but it’s recommended to stick to those that work well for you.

1. Fever – Temperature variations, mosquitoes, exhaustion, and others can cause fatigue and fever, so it is recommended to carry a fever medicine with you.
2. Pain Relief – If you are on any painkillers, make sure you carry them and they can be handy if you get a cramp or back ache when exploring some ruins of forts or palaces or any other situation that can’t be foreseen.
3. Diahreah – Delly Belly is a common travel phenomenon. Learn about how to avoid Delhi belly in India in our detailed post on the topic.
4. Multivitamins/energy supplement/Rehydration salts – India is a vast country with varied weather and seasons and it can sometimes be tiring to explore, it is recommended to carry a few of the medications to beat the scorching sun in this tropical country.
5. Band-Aid & Antiseptic Ointment – Just in case you get a bruise or a small cut, keeping them handy can help you heal in time.

• Electronics – We live in a connected world, thanks to our everyday gadgets without them, it’s hard to imagine life. You need to note that in India the electricity operates at 230V and 50 Hz, so make sure you have the voltage convertor handy before you arrive. Also, the power sockets are different, so when packing for India carry the connector as well, so you can use the sockets in India with ease.
  

1. Camera – India has vivid colors, culture, architecture, and more to it, a good camera is a win-win, but today phones have great cameras too so you can stick to the camera of your phone to get those pictures clicked in time. Make sure you have enough storage in your device to capture those memories from your trip to India.
2. Phones and charging cables – They are already at the top of your packing list for India.
3. Laptops or other devices – Yes if you intend to work you should carry them with the right connectors, so you can recharge them in India.
4. Shavers/Trimmers – You can carry them, or rather prefer Razors which can be bought in India as well. Getting a haircut and beard in India would be cheaper than at home, and you might get a head massage for free with it.

• Toiletries – If you are allergic to specific chemicals or ingredients it is great to carry your own toiletries, it is great to have in small quantity or packaging your day-to-day use toiletries which can include –

1. Toothpaste
2. Brush
3. Shampoo
4. Soap
5. Hand Wash
6. Sanitizer
7. Tissues

Do Not Miss these from your packaging list to India –

8. Mosquito Repellent
9. Sunscreen

You can get them at the hotels too, but carrying them can be handy when on the roads, especially on long journeys between cities, as India is a long country and distances can be great.

They are a travel essential in India if you intend to travel by train.

• Footwear – India is a land of varied terrains and depending on the tour type you can pack specifically.

1. Sports Shoes – it is advised to carry comfortable sports shoes which can be helpful while exploring the country, be it walking the busy roads, climbing hilltop fortress, or feeding your adventure junkie a great pair of sports shoes is a must.
2. Slippers/Sandals – You can carry a pair of slippers, crocs, flip-flops, or sandals for your daily chores.

Bags – You must carry a bag that is good enough to accommodate the clothes, souvenirs, and memories from India, this is possible only if you pack light.

Carry a small bag for your day tour which can accommodate copies of your documents, water bottles, snacks or munchies, some toiletries, and a few medications.

Hope you got the answer to your question “What to pack for a trip to India?”

Thinking about Tigers in India, Ranthambore National Park Safari offers the highest probability of seeing the king of the jungle in the wilderness. A reserved forest under the Project Tiger initiative of the government of India, started to save the tigers in India. The Ranthambore National Park today boasts of approx. 80-90 tigers including the female tigress, male tigers, and cubs all combined. Ranthambore is the most sought-after destination in India for wildlife lovers. With a sprawling area of over a thousand square kilometers, the Rajasthan Ranthambore safari is divided into ten zones. The dry deciduous makes it a perfect place for tiger sightings given its climatic condition and vegetation cover which is not so dense, so movements are visible from far off.

The former hunting grounds of the Jaipur royal family the reserve forest is also home to almost 300 species of birds, and about 40 species of mammals including leopard, caracal, sloth bear, sambhar, chinkara, jackal, fox, wild-boar and hyena to name a few. Ranthambore National Park Safari offers one of the best wildlife experiences in the country and is the most visited national park in Rajasthan.

Ranthambore Safari Timings

Ranthambore Zone 1-5 remains open for visitors from 1st October – 30th June only since it is the breeding time of Tigers. The jungles are green and serene during the monsoon and one can enjoy the natural beauty of Ranthambore at zones 6-10 which are open throughout the year for visitors.

Please note: – Safari Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan the Zones 1-5 remains closed on Tuesdays and Zone 6-10 remains closed on Wednesday.

The best chances of seeing a tiger are in Zone 1-5 which were the original home to the tigers as the population of tigers has increased there has been an extension of the tiger reserve in Zone 6-10 to accommodate the growing population of Royal Bengal tigers in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve.

Ranthambore Safari Price

Ranthambore tiger safari is conducted by the forest department govt. of Rajasthan and visitors have the following option to book a safari via the forest department booking website –

• Gypsy – Six seater open gypsy
• Canter – Twenty seater open bus which is higher than the ground
• Private Safari – Guests can book a private safari as well.

The price for tiger safari at Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan are as follows –

These are rates offered by the official govt. website for Rajasthan Ranthambore Safari. You can also book tickets from the local agents which charge a small surcharge for the services provided.

Foreign nationals are required to present their passport details in order to secure their entry.

Join us on our Indian tiger trail that takes you to the best tiger reserve in the country.

Tiger Trail India Tour

The weather in India is divided into 3 major seasons –

Summer – Extending from mid of March until the rains arrive by June when the mercury ranges from 60 F to 122F. In the western desert region, the temperature reaches a maximum of 122 F while in the northern foothills of the Himalayas the weather is pleasant ranging from 40 F to 60 F. While most of India is under the sun it is a fairly good time for those seeking adventure and beauty and can visit Northern part of India.

Monsoon – The southwestern monsoon sweeps most part of the country and arrive at the southern coast by June and slowly moving upwards towards the mainland. The rainfall ranges from 300mm in the west to around 2800mm in the west thereby making an average of 600mm or more during the monsoon, which comes to an end by end of September

Winter – This cool and dry season is the most favorable time to visit India, the mercury levels are apt. in the range of 50-70 F. The winter season which extends from November to February is fairly pleasant in the mainland excluding the Himalayan region which is mostly covered in snow during winters and remains closed and isolated due to snowfall. Especially December and January are the coldest months with the average temperature ranging from 40 to 70 Degree Fahrenheit.

The winters are the most preferred season to visit the Taj Mahal, Delhi, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh the central and western parts of India. As it is most comfortable time of the year for those coming from comparatively colder regions like America’s or Europe or the U.K.

with summer being the longest average month throughout the country especially in the North, lasting for 6 months on average from March to September, and it really gets hot during this season and is not the best time to visit India especially if you are coming from cold regions like the states or Europe.

But as per my false belief, I learned from a past client from Australia that he very much enjoyed the sun in March in India and when he returned back home he was missing the Indian sun in Australian winters.

The best time to visit India if you come from colder regions is between the months of November to February, the average mercury 60 Degree Fahrenheit.

Explore one of our winter Tour here – Rajasthan Tours