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13 Best India Travel Guide Books

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13 Best India Travel Guide Books

India is a vast country with diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. From sandy shores of the Keralan coast, barren deserts of Rajasthan, the majestic snow-capped Himalayas, ancient temples, to buzzing modern cities, the country has it all. The stunning country also offers a rich mix of traditions, festivals, and spiritual beliefs. All these reasons make India a must-visit! For a memorable trip to India, what’s a better way to understand and learn more about the country than by getting yourself “lost” in the best India travel guide books? These guidebooks are more than helpful in planning your trip. Whatever you want to explore in this ancient country, these travel guide books India will help you make the most of your time in this exotic part of the world.

How To Choose The Best India Travel Guide Books?

Travel guidelines to India are all you need to arrange the perfect trip to India . With travel guidebooks, it’s easier to travel safely. That said, choosing travel guide books India also can be overwhelming. To get the best one, there are some basic things that you can consider before deciding to buy a travel guide book India. Let’s take a look at them one by one!

What’s Included In The Book

A travel guidebook to India should contain information about sights, accommodation, transportation, activities, and restaurants. Detailed maps and historical cultural information also make a good guidebook. Some India travel guide books even include phrases and glossary to help you interact with the locals. Colorful photos in the book would be a great feature for travelers’ inspiration.

Published Date

To avoid misinformation about the places you’re going to visit, we recommend getting the latest edition which published date is no later than a year apart. Hotels, restaurants, sights, and shops are ever-changing, so it’s important to get the updated information.

While traveling, you may not want to be weighed down by a thick travel guide book India. If so, a digital version is the best option for you. Meanwhile, some travelers may want to have a printed edition. This version can be useful along the way, such as for taking notes or using the maps without the need for GPS or gadgets.

Is India easy to travel around?

Well, since India is a huge country, getting around can be slow and require a bit of patience. However, it also offers extensive interesting and fascinating places. You’ll never get bored of traveling in India. If anything, your trip may turn into a fascinating adventure!

Is India dangerous for tourists?

You may have heard infamous rumors about India, but generally, India is considered a safe destination for tourists. That said, you should be aware of certain things like scams and pickpockets. So, don’t forget to bring your underclothing travel pouch for safety. Reading travel guidelines to India before you go, like The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India and Travel Fearlessly in India is also useful. These books provide useful tips, advice, and strategies on how to travel safely in India.

Is India expensive to visit?

Actually, India is commonly known as one of the best budget destinations for travelers in the world. You’ll find plenty of budget hotels and affordable transportation to get around. It’s a perfect destination for budget travelers.

Essential India Travel Guide

Essential India Travel Guide is

written by Mohan Kapoor. He’s a native Indian who was born in Bikaner, Rajasthan. When he was young, he left the country. But, he returned to India for work. His jobs required him to travel extensively through India. So, he shares his knowledge about the country, life, historical sights, and culture into a useful travel guide. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to travel to India.

Unlike other India travel guide books we have on this list, this book only covers cities and states with the most popular and important tourist attractions. But you’ll get an in-depth look and some fun facts of each city. It includes where to eat, what to see, where to go, and what to expect. It also gives you information about how to be respectful to each of the six main religions,, plus, how to be aware of the pickpockets, and more.

The thing we like the most about this book is that the author provides essential tips. These include what to expect, what type of travel agencies you can trust, important cultural aspects, what food choices are safe, and so much more. Plus, he also shares his own story. In a way, by reading this book you travel virtually to cities and states like Delhi, Goa, and Kolkata even before you arrive in the beautiful and colorful country!

Any type of travelers, including business travelers, backpackers, and party-goers.

travel guide india book

The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India

Are you a solo traveler who yearns to travel to India, but has been disheartened by rumors or publicity about violence there? The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India will show you how to have a happy and safe trip. So, you’ll know how to survive and enjoy your stay in the great land of India. The author is a native-born Indian diplomat with extensive experience and knowledge of his native country.

The book contains general information, like geography and weather. Before you go, some chapters will help you prepare. Getting started, financial planning , and before you travel are some of them. Information about health, insurance, and getting local connections are also provided. Besides, it covers insightful cultural and historical narratives. You’ll find all this info in the chapter: An Introduction to India .

The author talks about safety and security during your time in India. He guides you on how to act, what to do, and how to handle unique situations to make sure you enjoy your stay. You’ll figure out how to travel safely within India by air and train. He also gives tips on how to obtain travel passage to restricted or protected regions. What’s more, there’s a piece of specific advice for female travelers, making it the best travel guide books India for female travelers.

Backpackers, adventurers, female travelers, and solo travelers.

India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Whether you’re traveling for work or planning a long-term trip to India, you’ll need travel guidelines to India. It will help you to understand the local culture. India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture is indeed a useful book. It helps you to learn important stuff about the country, whether it’s land and people, customs and traditions, or values and attitudes. Also, there are some tips on dos and don’ts and taboos. You’ll even get info about business in India!

This travel guide book India is written by Becky Stephen. She enjoys traveling and learning about cultures. Also, she studied Hindi at Banaras Hindu University and lived in Varanasi for years. The author shares her meaningful experience through a better understanding of the local culture. With this book, you’ll be aware of the essential values and behavioral norms, plus knowing how to make new friends and build relationships with the locals.

The book starts with the introduction and key facts about India. Meanwhile, the Land and People chapter contains several topics. These include a brief history of India, as well as its geography and climate. You’ll also find some information about places to eat, shops, and cultural activities. Besides, there’s a section for top places to visit and a map of India.

Long-term travelers, temporary residents, and business travelers.

Lonely Planet South India & Kerala (Regional Guide)

You’ll love Lonely Planet South India & Kerala . It’s perfect as your travel guidelines to India when visiting that particular region. The information on history and culture is very informative. Plus, there’s up-to-date advice on what to see and what not to see. So, you can discover both popular and off-beaten-path experiences. This makes the book the most comprehensive guide to South India and Kerala. It covers Goa, Kerala, Mumbai, Andaman Islands, Bengaluru, and more.

The authors have also packed the book with sights and experiences. It includes South India & Kerala’s Top 12. With this one of the best travel guide books India, you can choose activities that suit you. Do you prefer relaxing on a yoga retreat by the beach in Goa ? Or, floating along Kerala’s backwaters? This book has it covered. Meanwhile, the itineraries section helps customize your trip to your interests.

Get information on recommended accommodation, like hotels in Mumbai , and also places to eat, drinking & nightlife, entertainment, and shopping. There’s a section about how to travel with children for your next family trip. It gives you info about customs regulations, embassies, and consulates. Plus, full-color maps and images are also provided.

Family travelers, solo travelers, backpackers, business travelers, and long-term travelers.

Insight Guides India

You need to plan your trip to experience the best of India. Both paperback or digital editions of Insight Guide India can help you on your next adventure. It’s one of the best travel guide books India for travelers looking for a cultural experience. The book is written by local authors who have extensive historical and cultural backgrounds. Besides, they provide hundreds of stunning photos that capture the essence of India. Not to forget the detailed maps!

There’s a section that features India’s Top 10 Attractions. Also, it covers several regions, from Delhi in the north, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Goa, to Kerala. The information on independence, art, and architecture let you know more about the country.

You’ll find the editor’s choice for the most memorable India experiences. From seeing Hindu festivals, tasting the Indian food, to visiting Rajasthan fort. What’s more, the book includes practical information and travel tips. You’ll find about when to go and transportation. Moreover, this user-friendly travel guide book India provides invaluable maps. So, you could venture off the beaten track.

Any type of travelers, from backpackers, adventurers, business travelers, to photographers.

DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

Are you traveling to India for the first time or relocating temporarily to the capital city Delhi? Gear up with some information about the Golden Triangle for your adventures. It includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, India’s most visited cities. These cities are famed for their iconic monuments and frenetic energy. Also, these regions have much to offer, including plenty of things to do in Jaipur .

For all those reasons, DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra and Jaipur can be your best India travel guide books. Unlike most travel guide books, it’s lightweight. So, you can take it wherever you go on your trip. Also, the book is available on Kindle. The information from the book makes traveling across the three cities easy.  Whether you want to glimpse the pretty pink Hawa Mahal or get the perfect shot of the Taj Mahal, the book includes all. Not only you’ll discover reasons to love Delhi , Agra, and Jaipur, but the book also makes you know about the cities.

Like other DK Eyewitness travel guide books India, this book comes with trademark illustrations. Besides, the book provides the best places to eat, drink, and shop. Recommended accommodation is also provided. Meanwhile, the selection of itineraries allows you to make your own. What’s more, get expert advice on how to stay safe, get around, and get ready. Like all DK Eyewitness guide, the book has plenty of beautiful pictures and diagrams. Plus, it includes detailed maps and a pull-out map of Delhi.

Long-term travelers, business travelers, backpackers, and adventurers.

Travel Fearlessly in India: What Every Woman Should Know About Personal Safety

Women who are traveling to India should have the best India travel guide books. Travel Fearlessly in India written by J D Viharini is important for your first or fifth trip to the beautiful country. The author is an American woman who has made India her home. She has traveled across India since 1980, mostly alone. From the tropical south to the remote Himalayas, visit ancient temples, and attend great festivals.

With her 30 years of familiarity with India, she shares important things in travel guidelines to India. She includes the issues ladies may come across in the country. Here, you’ll find out about the mindset of Indian men and how to have safe interactions with them. She also talks about how to understand the Indian perspective on non-Indian women.

The book gives uncommon sights into how to travel and live safely in India. These include cultural factors relating to women’s safety. You’ll find comprehensive information like finding safe places to stay and how to travel safely; how to deal with potential problems and what you need to do if you have to go to the police are also provided. Her many years’ experiences make the book a great read for every female traveler before traveling to India.

Female travelers, solo travelers, and family.

Chennai & Tamil Nadu Focus Guide, 2nd Edition

Looking for specific India travel guide books to Chennai and Tamil Nadu area may be a bit difficult. That’s why the second edition of the Chennai & Tamil Nadu Focus Guide is very useful for your next trip. The book provides you with the insightful and up-to-date information you need. Are you planning to visit and explore many grand Hindu temples? Maybe you want to stop and savor the smell of jasmine garlands piled up before the carved granite gods? The book covers them all.

Also, you don’t want to miss enjoying nature in the blue Nilgiri Mountains. The book also includes information on the region’s unique history, culture, and cuisine for a richer experience along the way. Another section features practical tips on getting there and around.

Besides, you’ll get recommended and comprehensive listings of hotels, a list of restaurants and activities, including horse riding and festivals. This travel guide book India is only available in a printed edition but is slim enough to fit in your pocket. It helps you get the most out of Tamil Nadu without weighing you down. What’s more, the book provides detailed street maps for important towns and cities.

Photographers, long-term travelers, temporary residents, and backpackers.

Bradt Travel Guide: Ladakh, Jammu & the Kashmir Valley

Having the right travel guide books India is essential for the best adventures in Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir. Bradt Travel Guide Ladakh, Jammu & the Kashmir Valley can be your best option. Though Ladakh is becoming a more popular destination for its epic Himalayan beauty, some other areas are still off the beaten path, like Kashmir Valley & Jammu, plus Zanskar. There are so many wonders to be discovered and so many  things to do in Ladakh . So, this book is essential for travel guide book India for that specific region.

This fully updated edition helps you explore the whole area. These include Leh, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Zanskar, The Kashmir Valley, and Jammu amongst others. There are plenty of activities you can do. You may want to relax on a houseboat or take a shikara ride in Srinagar. How about exploring Buddhist culture in Ladakhi monasteries? Or, traveling in a jeep along nerve-wracking mountains roads become your choice? You can also enjoy the views from the roof of the world at the breathless Khardung La mountain pass. For adventurers, you don’t want to miss hiking to the Himalayan!

From the book, you’ll find information about these regions. Plus, trekking information, trekking maps, and new travel routes. Other highlights, like the Mughal Road, the Buddhist monks at Thiksey Monastery, and the Buddhas of Kargil are included. Also, we love the color photographs and maps. On top of that, there are Urdu and Ladakhi phrases. Get this one of the best India travel guide books in paperback or Kindle edition.

Adventurers, backpackers, climbers, hikers, and trekkers.

The Rough Guide to India

Make the most of your traveling with The Rough Guide to India ! Whether you’re visiting the world’s greatest building Taj Mahal or visiting the dramatic landscape of home to glaciers in Sikkim, it has it all. Also, the book provides very detailed and extensive information. It makes the book a perfect travel guide book India, especially if you’re preparing for the first trip to India and traveling on a budget.

The book may be a bit thick, but the e-book included is a brilliant bonus. Plus, it’s easy to use. These travel guidelines to India cover India’s cities and states north, south, and east. These include Uttar Pradesh, The Andaman Islands, Gujarat, Punjab and Haryana, and more. From this book, you’ll find extensive listings of the best sights and top experiences.

Also, you can get practical advice about what to see and do. The essential pre-departure information is also provided. It includes getting around, food and drink, and accommodation. You’ll also get info about festivals, culture and etiquette, and more. The itinerary section helps you prepare your own routes, from popular tourist areas to off-the-beaten-track adventures. Besides, there’s a section that provides history, ethnic groups, religion, and wildlife. You’ll love the amazing full-color photography and practical full-color maps.

Backpackers, adventurers, and temporary travelers living in India.

Fodor’s Essential India

Get Fodor’s Essential India as your travel guide books India. It helps you plan the perfect adventure in India to be a trip of a lifetime. This guidebook is written by local writers and expert travel advisors who know the destinations better than anyone else. It’s perfect for travelers who want to travel in India but feel intimidated by the vastness of India. The travel guidelines to India are available in Kindle for a guidebook on the go. Meanwhile, the paperback is small enough to fit in your handbag and backpack.

The book starts with Experience India. This section provides the ultimate experiences you should try in India . Is it taking a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges or entering through the world’s largest door at Fatehpur Sikri? Maybe you want to wander the sprawling City Palace in Udaipur and party the night away at Goa? Meanwhile, you can have an overview of what to expect and where to go in the Travel Smart India section. It helps you with what you need to know before visit India. Also, it includes getting here and around and sample itineraries. Plus, you’ll get an explanation about history, culture, and travel tips.

This guidebook provides up-to-date coverage. From the capital city Delhi, home to Mother House Kolkata, to a financial center Mumbai . It also covers the largest Indian states Rajasthan and the coastlines of Kerala and Goa. It also includes information for side trips from Delhi. Each major city features planning, where to stay, what to do, etc. What’s more, the book provides lots of maps and illustrations to help maximize your time.

Adventurers, backpackers, photographers, and family.

Lonely Planet India

If you’re traveling to India quite often, Lonely Planet India is worth owning. It contains a lot of information about many corners of the country. Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Darjeeling, Chennai, are among them. Plus, it provides full-color maps and images. So, the book is perfect for a quick skimming before you do detailed planning and begin your journey in India. Do you want to listen to monks chanting in the shadow of the mighty Himalaya in Ladakh? Or, visiting top attractions in Agra , like the Taj Mahal? It has you covered!

The book may a little be thick, but it provides 4-easy use sections. So, you’ll find the most relevant and up-to-date advice and recommendations easily. It contains three main chapters: Plan Your Trip, On the Road, Understand, and Survival Guide. The Plan Your Trip is your planning tool kit to create the perfect trip. It provides useful information. From what you need to know, suggested itineraries, how to travel with children, to regions at a glance.

The book covers plenty of places in the country. You’ll find Agra, Goa, Bangalore, Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad, Kerala, in the On the Road section. Plus, you’ll find expert reviews, insider tips, and easy-to-use maps. Get recommended accommodation, restaurants, and shops with honest reviews. Also, there’s a special section about tips for women and solo travelers, plus scams. What’s more, you’ll find information about transportation and cultural insights. It helps you get a more rewarding travel experience.

Family travelers, business travelers, adventurers, and backpackers.

DK Eyewitness India

DK Eyewitness India can be your right choice for India travel guide books. It’s filled with information. Either you choose the printed edition or e-book, you can take this guidebook wherever you go. The design will make the most of your travels to discover and experience India. Also, the book has several main sections, including Discover India. This section is divided into some parts: Welcome, Reasons to Love India, and Exploring/getting to know India. Itineraries/India your way, and the Indian year and a Brief History.

The introduction gives an overview of India as a country. Its history, food, culture, nature, architectures are amongst others. Meanwhile, the section Experience India features cities, states, and unions. Also, this travel guide book India includes highlights of what you could experience. It’s whether you prefer to drink tea in Darjeeling or visit the unmissable Taj Mahal. Perhaps you want to escape to the beautiful Andaman Islands or hike the heights of the Himalayas?

You’ll also find 22 sightseeing areas, which contains some information. These include addresses, phone numbers, websites, and opening times. Stuck for inspiration for your schedules while in India? Worry not! There are recommended easy-to-follow itineraries. So, you could set up your plan, whether you’re staying for just a few days or few weeks. Also, there is info about the best places to eat, sleep, and transport information. Even before you’re arriving in India, you can imagine yourself there through its colorful maps and amazing pictures. What’s more, you’ll get expert advice on how to get ready and stay safe.

Backpackers, adventurers, and temporary business travelers.

Author:  John P

As a blogger, I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the most exclusive destinations, indulging in the finest cuisine, accommodations, and experiences that the world has to offer. From the chic streets Paris to the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast, readers luxury. my, tips on the most exclusive hotels restaurants, and activities, giving you a glimpse into the world of high-end travel. But luxury travel is not just about extravagance - it's also about immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing the true essence of a destination. With a passion for art, history, and architecture, I seek out the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make each destination truly unique. So whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, my blog is your guide to the ultimate European luxury travel experience. Join me on my journey as we explore the best that Europe has to offer, one luxurious destination at a time.

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Taj Mahal

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With its sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs, festivals, architecture and landscapes, India will set your memories ablaze long after you've left its shores.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Mehrangarh Fort.

Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a rocky hill that itself stands 120m above Jodhpur’s skyline, Mehrangarh is one of the most magnificent forts in…

Taj Mahal, Agra, India

Poet Rabindranath Tagore described it as 'a teardrop on the cheek of eternity'; Rudyard Kipling as 'the embodiment of all things pure'; while its creator,…

City Palace architecture

City Palace

A complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings, the impressive City Palace is right in the centre of the Old City. The outer wall was built by Jai Singh…

India, Rajasthan, Jaipur, Amber Fort

Eastern Rajasthan

This magnificent fort comprises an extensive palace complex, built from pale yellow and pink sandstone, and white marble, and is divided into four main…

Carved wheel of the Sun Temple at Konark.

Conceived as the cosmic chariot of the sun god Surya, this massive, breathtakingly splendid temple was constructed in the mid-13th century, probably by…

travel guide india book

Brihadeeshwara Temple

Thanjavur (Tanjore)

Come here twice: in the morning, when the honey-hued granite begins to assert its dominance over the white dawn sunshine, and in the evening, when the…

Golden Temple

Golden Temple

The legendary Golden Temple is actually just a small part of this huge gurdwara complex, known to Sikhs as Harmandir Sahib. Spiritually, the focus of…

Dilkhusha (Tomb of Muhammad Quli Khan)

Mehrauli Archaeological Park

There are extraordinary riches scattered around Mehrauli, with more than 440 monuments – from the 10th century to the British era – dotting a forest and…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 22 best things to do in india.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Varanasi’s liveliest and most colourful ghat. The name indicates that Brahma sacrificed (medh) 10 (das) horses (aswa) here. In spite of the persistent…

A beautiful street in the Chandni Chowk area, one of the oldest ones in Delhi.

Chandni Chowk

Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)

Old Delhi’s main drag is lined by Jain, Hindu and Sikh temples, plus a church, with the Fatehpuri Masjid at one end. Tree-lined and elegant in Mughal…

Indian one-horned rhinoceros (rhino), Rhinoceros unicornis, with calf, Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India, Asia

Kaziranga National Park

The park’s 2400 one-horned rhinos represent about two-thirds of the world’s total population (in 1904, there were only 200). Kaziranga offers popular 4WD…

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve

West Bengal

The 2585-sq-km Sundarbans Tiger Reserve has 100-plus Royal Bengal tigers lurking in its impenetrable mangrove forests and sometimes swimming its delta…

Amrit Sarovar

Amrit Sarovar

Spiritually, the focus of attention within the Golden Temple Complex is the tank that surrounds the gleaming central shrine. Known as the Amrit Sarovar,…

Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park

This park covers 880 sq km and was once the Mysore maharajas’ private wildlife reserve. It's noted for herds of gaurs (Indian bison), chitals (spotted…

Devaraja Market

Devaraja Market

Mysuru (Mysore)

Dating from Tipu Sultan’s reign, this huge and very lively bazaar has local traders selling traditional items such as flower garlands, incense, spices and…

Vittala Temple

Vittala Temple

Hampi's most exquisite structure, the 16th-century Vittala Temple stands amid boulders 2.5km from Hampi Bazaar. Work possibly started on the temple during…

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Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

The Western Ghats

In the foothills of the Nilgiris, this newly enlarged 765-sq-km wildlife reserve is like a classical Indian landscape painting given life, with chital…

travel guide india book

Dudhsagar Falls

Panaji & Central Goa

Situated in the far southeastern corner of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa’s most impressive waterfall splashes down just west of the border…

500px Photo ID: 130892773 - Photographed at Assi Ghat, Varanasi

The furthest south of the main ghats and one of the biggest, Assi Ghat is particularly important as the River Assi meets the Ganges near here and pilgrims…

Boats on River Ganges

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat, the main burning ghat, is the most auspicious place for a Hindu to be cremated. Dead bodies are handled by outcasts known as doms, and…

Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park

West of the Kabini River is the 643-sq-km wildlife sanctuary of Nagarhole National Park (pronounced nag-ar-hole-eh). The lush forests here are home to…

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

The entrance to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible from Molem and, with an area of 240 sq km, this is the largest of Goa’s four…

Airavatesvara Temple

Airavatesvara Temple

Three kilometres west of Kumbakonam, this late-Chola Shiva temple was constructed by Raja Raja II (1146–73). The steps of Rajagambhira Hall are carved…

Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park covers the roadless villages of Rumbak and Yurutse, the whole Markha Valley, and the passes and access trails to Stok trekking point…

Virupaksha Temple

Virupaksha Temple

The focal point of Hampi Bazaar is this temple, one of the city’s oldest structures, and Hampi’s only remaining working temple. The main gopuram (gateway)…

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram ('City of the Chola who Conquered the Ganges'), 35km north of Kumbakonam, is dedicated to Shiva. It was built by…

Pench Tiger Reserve

Pench Tiger Reserve

Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh

Pench is made up mostly of teak-tree forest rather than sal, and so has a different flavour from nearby Kanha or Bandhavgarh. It also sees fewer tourists …

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India, Asia, Indian Sub-Continent

Kanha Tiger Reserve

Madhya Pradesh is the king of the jungle when it comes to tiger parks, and Kanha is its most famous. The forests are vast, and while your chances of…

Itimad-ud-Daulah

Itimad-ud-Daulah

Nicknamed the Baby Taj, the exquisite tomb of Mizra Ghiyas Beg should not be missed. This Persian nobleman was Mumtaz Mahal’s grandfather and Emperor…

Corbett Tiger Reserve

Corbett Tiger Reserve

Uttarakhand

This famous reserve was established in 1936 as India’s first national park. Originally called Hailey National Park, then Ramganga National Park, it was…

Stok Gompa

Around 2km south of the palace, Stok's small monastery has some crumbling old stupas, but the dominant feature, 200m above, is its huge 21m-tall gilded…

Hemis Gompa

Hemis Gompa

This expansive, 17th-century monastery is the spiritual centre of Ladakh’s Drukpa Buddhists; it was the fifth Gyaling Drukpa who founded Hemis after…

Thiksey Gompa

Thiksey Gompa

Glorious Thiksey Gompa is one of Ladakh’s biggest and most recognisable monasteries, photogenically cascading down a raised rocky promontory. At its heart…

Panna Tiger Reserve

Panna Tiger Reserve

Tigers are making a comeback after being reintroduced in 2009 to Panna Tiger Reserve from other Madhya Pradesh reserves; there are now thought to be more…

Kuldhara Village

Kuldhara Village

This abandoned village is 19km west of Jaisalmer, 6km south of the Sam road. It was abandoned by its Paliwal Brahmin inhabitants – just like the area’s 83…

Sam Sand Dunes

Sam Sand Dunes

The silky Sam dunes, 41km west of Jaisalmer along a good sealed road, are one of the most popular excursions from the city. About 2km long, the dunes are…

Jagannath Mandir

Jagannath Mandir

This mighty temple is home to Jagannath (Lord of the Universe), an incarnation of Vishnu. Built in its present form in 1198, the temple – closed to non…

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

If your only reason for visiting a tiger reserve in India is to see a tiger, look no further. A couple of days at Bandhavgarh should net you a tiger…

Wah Tea Estate

Wah Tea Estate

Himachal Pradesh

One of the Kangra Valley's oldest tea estates, Wah has been continuously cultivating since 1857. Half-hour visits let you walk through tea and herb…

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Gir National Park

Gujarat & Diu

Early-morning sunlight filters through the leaves and shadows skittle through the undergrowth. Suddenly, the silence is broken by the high-pitched alarm…

Aina Mahal

Kachchh (Kutch)

This beautiful palace, built in 1752 and part of the Darbargadh palace complex, lost its top storey in the 2001 earthquake, but the lower floor is open,…

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Insight Guides India

Insight Guide to India  is a pictorial travel guide in a magazine style providing answers to the key questions before or during your trip: deciding when to go to India, choosing what to see, from exploring Jaisalmer to discovering Kullu Valley or creating a travel plan to cover key places like the Taj Mahal, Kerala and Udaipur. This is an ideal travel guide for travellers seeking inspiration, in-depth cultural and historical information about India as well as a great selection of places to see during your trip.

The Insight Guide  India covers: The North; The Desert States; West-Central India; East and Northeast India; The South.

In this travel guide you will find:

IN-DEPTH CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL FEATURES

Created to explore the culture and the history of India to get a greater understanding of its modern-day life, people and politics.

The top attractions and Editor's Choice highlighting the most special places to visit around India.

CURATED PLACES, HIGH-QUALITY MAPS

Geographically organised text cross-referenced against full-colour, high-quality travel maps for quick orientation in Delhi, Mumbai and many more locations in India.

COLOUR-CODED CHAPTERS

Every part of India, from The Northern Plains to Andaman has its own colour assigned for easy navigation.

TIPS AND FACTS

Up-to-date historical timeline and in-depth cultural background to India as well as an introduction to India's food and drink and fun destination-specific features.

PRACTICAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

A-Z of useful advice on everything from when to go to India, how to get there and how to get around, as well as India's climate, advice on tipping, etiquette and more.

STRIKING PICTURES

Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Kerala and the spectacular Hampi.

Free eBook download with every purchase of a printed book to access all the content from your phone or tablet, for on-the-road exploration.

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Inspirational, lavishly illustrated travel guides to countries and regions that provide all you need for every step of your journey. With in-depth features on culture and history and stunning colour photography throughout, they are perfect for inspiration as well as a souvenir of your trip, while detailed place chapters and travel tips make it ideal for trip planning.

In-depth coverage of the destination's history, landscapes, wildlife, people and culture, from the arts to sports.

The destination’s top ten attractions and editor’s choice of what to see and do at the beginning of each guide

Practical travel information includes when to go, getting there, getting around, entry requirements, food and drink highlights, and everything you need to know about local culture

Colour-coded chapters travel around each city or region in a highly-readable descriptive style, featuring fascinating historical information as well as detailed information on points of interest, backed up by handy tips on what to look out for when you’re there

Colour-coded detailed maps with key sights marked up by number and corresponding to the places chapters

Beautiful, inspirational full-colour photography throughout brings the destination to life and makes the book a memorable souvenir of a trip

Printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

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Format: 152 x 228mm

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Extent: 248–464 pages

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Inside  Lonely Planet’s  India  Travel Guide:

Up-to-date information -  all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak

Top experiences feature  - a visually inspiring collection of India’s best experiences and where to have them

What's new feature  taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas

Pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card  with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel

Planning tools for family travellers  - where to go, how to save money, plus fun stuff just for kids

Colour  maps and images throughout

Highlights   and itineraries  help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests

Insider tips  to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots

Essential info   at your fingertips  - hours of operation, websites, transit tips, prices

Honest reviews for all budgets  - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss

Cultural insights  give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politics

Over   200 maps

Covers  Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, Kolkata, West Bengal, Sikkim, Northeast States, Gujarat, Odisha, Mumbai, Goa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu

eBook is available in ePub, MOBI and PDF.

ISBN: 9781788683876

Edition: 19th

Publication Date: April 2022

Writers: Joe Bindloss, Michael Benanav, Lindsay Brown, Stuart Butler, Mark Elliott, Paul Harding, Trent Holden, Anirban Mahapatra, Bradley Mayhew, Daniel McCrohan, Isabella Noble, John Noble, Kevin Raub, Sarina Singh, Iain Stewart

1256 pages, 1256pp color, 203 maps | Dimensions: 128mm × 197mm

Next edition due: November 2024

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Country, city & regional guides.

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  • Extensive coverage of history and culture
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(country, city & regional).

  • Led by local experts that reveal their favorite experiences and hidden gems
  • Personal itinerary building tools
  • Seasonal planning calendars
  • QR codes unlock additional online content

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(city & regional).

  • Special features cover most popular sights
  • Content organized by neighborhhod
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Lonely Planet India (Travel Guide) Paperback – 18 Oct. 2013

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Lonely Planet India: Perfect for exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled (Travel Guide)

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#1 best-selling guide to India *

Lonely Planet India is your passport to all the most relevant and up-to-date advice on what to see, what to skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Admire the perfect symmetry of the Taj Mahal, ride a camel through the moonlit desert or cruise the lush backwaters of Kerala; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of India and begin your journey now!

Inside Lonely Planet's India Travel Guide:

  • Colour maps and images throughout
  • Highlights and itineraries show you the simplest way to tailor your trip to your own personal needs and interests
  • Insider tips save you time and money, and help you get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
  • Essential info at your fingertips - including hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, and prices
  • Honest reviews for all budgets - including eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, and hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
  • Cultural insights give you a richer and more rewarding travel experience - including temples, cuisine, history, art, Hinduism, architecture, politics, landscapes, wildlife, customs, volunteering, yoga, ashrams and trekking
  • Over 190 colour maps
  • Useful features - including 3D illustrative plans of India's 5 most exciting sites, Travel with Children, and Woman and Solo Travellers
  • Coverage of Delhi's bazaars, the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan's forts and deserts, Goa's beaches, Kerala's backwaters, Mumbai's colonial-era buildings, Darjeeling's tea plantations, Khajuraho's ancient temples, Himalayan monasteries and more

The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet India, our most comprehensive guide to India, is perfect for those planning to both explore the top sights and take the road less travelled.

  • Looking for just the highlights of India? Check out Lonely Planet's Discover India, a photo-rich guide to the India's most popular attractions; Looking for a guide focused on Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, Goa, Mumbai, South India or Kerala? Check out Lonely Planet's South India & Kerala, Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra, or Goa & Mumbai guide for a comprehensive look at all those regions have to offer.

Authors: Written and researched by Lonely Planet, Sarina Singh, Michael Benanav, Joe Bindloss, Lindsay Brown, Mark Elliott, Paul Harding, Trent Holden, Amy Karafin, Anirban Mahapatra, Bradley Mayhew, Daniel McCrohan, Kate Morgan, John Noble and Kevin Raub.

About Lonely Planet: Started in 1973, Lonely Planet has become the world's leading travel guide publisher with guidebooks to every destination on the planet, as well as an award-winning website, a suite of mobile and digital travel products, and a dedicated traveller community. Lonely Planet's mission is to enable curious travellers to experience the world and to truly get to the heart of the places they find themselves in.

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards 2012 and 2013 winner in Favorite Travel Guide category

'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - The New York Times

'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves; it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' -Fairfax Media (Australia)

*Best-selling guide to India. Source: Nielsen BookScan. Australia, UK and USA, March 2012 to February 2013.

  • Print length 1248 pages
  • Language English
  • Publisher Lonely Planet
  • Publication date 18 Oct. 2013
  • Dimensions 12.8 x 4.8 x 19.7 cm
  • ISBN-10 9781742204123
  • ISBN-13 978-1742204123
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Lonely Planet India: Perfect for exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled (Travel Guide)

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ 1742204120
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lonely Planet; 15th edition (18 Oct. 2013)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 1248 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9781742204123
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1742204123
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 12.8 x 4.8 x 19.7 cm
  • 14,946 in Specialty Travel
  • 86,755 in Home & Garden (Books)

About the authors

travel guide india book

Sarina Singh

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Kevin Raub is a Italy-based travel and entertainment journalist and certified Brazilianist who grew up in Atlanta and started his career in entertainment in New York, working for Men's Journal and Rolling Stone magazines and "freelancing" (i.e. interviewing hot young actresses about their sex lives over a few too many cocktails) for men's magazines like FHM, Stuff and Maxim. He spent five years in Los Angeles as the senior writer for allstarnews.com, CDNOW's now-defunct (thank you, Amazon.com!) groundbreaking online music news site.

The rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle took its toll, so he needed an extended vacation and took up travel writing. For the last decade, Raub has scoured the globe for a variety of publications, including CNN, Travel+Leisure, Condé Nast Traveller, Afar, Robb Report, New York Times T Magazine, Departures, Town & Country, American Way (American Airlines), Rhapsody (United Airlines), Culture Trip, Celebrated Living, Angeleno, Guitar Aficionado, Time Out: Sao Paulo, BBC History, and New York Post, among others. From the top of the El Toco volcano in Chile’s Atacama Desert (18,372) to the Dead Sea in Israel (-1,385 ft), Raub has nearly seen it all, covering both high-end luxury travel and backpacker bargains – just to keep it all in perspective. Along the way, he’s snapped a few photos as well.

Raub spent seven years on Brazilian soil, canvassing the South American Giant one caipirinha at a time on his way to getting to know 22 Brazilian states for a variety of American and international publications. A well-known Brazil expert, he also handled all of Lonely Planet's on-the-ground social media coverage during the FIFA 2014 World Cup before relocating to Portugal the following year. In late 2019, he relocated to Italy.

Raub is the co-author of over 95 Lonely Planet travel guides, including Brazil (7th Ed.; 2008), Mexico (11th Ed.; 2008); Chile & Easter Island (8th Ed.; 2009), The Carolinas, Georgia & The South: Trips (1st Ed.; 2009); Colombia (5th Ed.; 2009), Lonely Planet's Best In Travel 2010 (2nd Revised Edition, 2009); South America on a Shoestring (11th Ed.; 2010); Venezuela (6th Ed.; 2010), Central America on a Shoestring (7th Ed.; 2010), Brazil (8th Ed.; 2010); India (14th Ed.; 2011), South India & Kerala (6th Ed.; 2011), Discover India (1st Ed.; 2011); Dominican Republic & Haiti (5th Ed.; 2011), Caribbean Islands (6th Ed.; 2011), USA (7th Ed.; 2011), Eastern USA (1st Ed.; 2011), Discover USA (1st Ed.; 2011), Colombia (6th Ed., 2012), Chile & Easter Island (9th Ed., 2012), Peru (8th Ed., 2013), South America on a Shoestring (12th Ed., 2013), Discover Peru (2nd Ed., 2013), India (15th Ed., 2013), Discover India (2nd Ed., 2013 and Brazil (9th Ed., 2013); and the forthcoming Dominican Republic (6th Ed., 2014), Discover Caribbean Islands (1st. Ed., 2014), Colombia (7th Ed., 2015), India (15th Ed., 2013), Discover India (2nd Ed., 2013), Brazil (9th Ed., 2013), Dominican Republic (6th Ed., 2014) Discover Caribbean Islands (1st. Ed., 2014); and the forthcoming Colombia (7th Ed., 2015), India (16th Ed., 2015), Discover India (3rd Ed., 2015), Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra (4th Ed., 2015), Chile & Easter Island (10th Ed., 2015), USA (9th Ed., 2016), Discover USA (3rd Ed., 2016), Eastern USA (3rd Ed., 2016), Lonely Planet’s Best of USA (1st Ed., 2016), Civil War Trail: Road Trips (1st Ed., 2016), Brazil (10th Ed., 2016) and South America on a Shoestring (13th Ed., 2016); and the forthcoming Portugal (10th Ed., 2017), India (17th Ed., 2017), South India & Kerala (9th Ed., 2017), Discover India (4th Ed., 2017), Best of India (1st Ed., 2017), USA (10th Ed., 2017), Discover USA (4th Ed., 2017), Eastern USA (4th Ed., 2017), Florida & the South’s Best Trips (3rd Ed.; 2017), Italy (13th Ed., 2018); and the forthcoming Dubai & Abu Dhabi (9th Ed.; 2018), Colombia (8th Ed., 2018), Chile & Easter Island (11th Ed., 2018), Pocket Lisbon (4th Ed., 2018), Georgia & the Carolinas (2nd Ed., 2019) and Brazil (11th Ed.; 2019), Eastern Europe (15th Ed.; 2019), Western Balkans (3rd. Ed.; 2019), Portugal (11th Ed.; 2019), Discover Portugal (2nd Ed.; 2019), Best of Portugal 2 (2nd Ed.; 2019), India (18th Ed.; 2019), South India & Kerala (10th Ed.; 2019), Goa & Mumbai (8th Ed.; 2019), Discover India (5th Ed.; 2019), Best of South America (1st Ed.; 2019), Discover South America (1st Ed.; 2019), South America (14th Ed.; 2019), Italy (14th Ed., 2019), Greece (14th Ed., 2020), Crete (7th Ed.; 2020), Greek Islands (14th Ed.; 2020), Best of Greece & the Greek Islands (1st Ed.; 2020), USA (11th Ed.; 2020), Eastern USA (5th Ed.; 2020), New York City (12th Ed.; 2020), Hawai’i the Big Island (5th Ed.; 2020), Best of Hawai’i (2nd Ed.; 2020), Europe’s Best Trips (2nd Ed.; 2020) and Lonely Planet’s Best Places to Eat in Every Country (1st Ed.; 2020).

On the few days he's home, Raub once spent an inordinate amount of time slathering on organic cosmetics for his bi-monthly organic grooming column for men, The Green Guy's Grooming Guide, which appeared in Organic Spa for several years, but constant battles with the Brazilian food and drug administration caused it to meet its demise in 2011. Now, he just slathers it on for fun.

Raub also scoured Brazilian soil as the 'Brazil Insider' for LATAM airlines' Only in South America blog for a few years as well.

Raub happened upon his 100th country and territory in 2018, becoming a member of the long-coveted Traveler's Century Club. His country count currently stands at 108.

Follow Kevin @RaubontheRoad on Instagram and Twitter. Visit his personal web site at www.kevinraub.net.

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Mark Elliott

Mark Elliott is an English travel writer best known for travel books and articles on Azerbaijan, and for unusual map-based route guides for Asia. His first major work, Asia Overland, (co-authored with Wil Klass) was an ultra-budget manual for those wishing to cross the continent in the pre-Internet era. It garnered something of a cult following among overland travellers of the day as did the 2003 regional follow-up, Southeast Asia Graphic Guide. Elliott has contributed to around 50 Lonely Planet books covering destinations from Bosnia to Belgium, Iran to Taiwan.

travel guide india book

Daniel McCrohan

Daniel McCrohan is a widely-published travel writer who has written or co-written more than 40 guidebooks for both Lonely Planet and Trailblazer.

An Asia specialist, he is one of the leading experts on travel in China and India, but has also written on Mongolia, Russia, Tibet, Bangladesh, Thailand and Singapore.

Back in his homeland, Daniel is also the author of six British walking guides, each published by Trailblazer, for whom he also researched and wrote the 10th edition of Bryn Thomas' seminal guidebook, the Trans-Siberian Handbook.

Away from guides, Daniel has contributed to a number of books on world culture and travel with pieces he has written on some of China and India's distinctive art, theatre and cuisine. He has also written about Chinese tea for numerous publications.

In television, Daniel was the host of nine episodes of the Lonely Planet travel series, Best in China. He has also been interviewed (in Mandarin Chinese) about travel in China by numerous Chinese television stations.

In 2017 Daniel and his family hiked and camped their way along the entire length of Hadrian's Wall, an epic, week-long adventure that spawned the podcast 'The Showdown: Hadrian's Wall versus The Great Wall of China', which you can listen to at www.traveltape.libsyn.com.

Follow Daniel's latest travels on Twitter (@danielmccrohan) or visit danielmccrohan.com.

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Lonely Planet

With over 150 million guidebooks in print, Lonely Planet is a trusted source for any traveler. Since our inception in 1973, we've inspired generations of travelers to discover amazing places and enabled curious travelers to get off the beaten paths to appreciate different cultures and become agents of positive change.

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Top 10 Best Indian Travel Guide Books To Read in India

Best indian travel guide books.

Are you a travel lover? Do you love to read travel stories? Amazing! Through our years of travel experiences, we have come up with this content to explain to you in detail about top travel storybooks in India. So, the best Indian travel guide books are as follows:

List of Top 10 Best Travel Guide Books For India – 

  • Enjoying India to the Fullest
  • Rough Guide To India
  • India (Lonely Planet Travel Guides)
  • India Bites You Somehow
  • Frommer’s India
  • Wanderlust and Lipstick
  • DK Eyewitness Travel Guide
  • India – Culture Smart
  • Fodor’s Essential India

Top 10 Best Indian Travel Guide Books To Read

1. Enjoying India to the Fullest – Indian Travel Guide Book

 Author – Shalu Sharma 

This is one of the best books about travel in India . This book is essential if you plan to visit India. Many people travel to India without knowing what to do or what to eat. This book will help you to plan your trip to India. Enjoying India book will provide information to help travelers navigate India’s vast landscape and get the most out of India. 

2. Rough Guide To India

Author – Rough Guides

Rough Guide To India is among the best Indian travel guide books  and is the most comprehensive guide to India. These Rough Guide Books are actually comparable to the Lonely Planet guides.  Rough Guide To India books is bravely open about the places they cover. This book covers India’s history, language, and culture as well as its politics and culture. It also includes information about bribes and drug use and Bollywood movies. It is the best and most comprehensive guide to India.

3. India (Lonely Planet Travel Guides)

Author – Michael Benanav, Anirban Mahapatra, Bradley Mayhew, Mark Elliott, Paul Harding, Lindsay Brown

Lonely Planet Travel Guides is among the best Indian travelogue books  and is essential if you’re planning to visit India for the first time. It includes traveler maps, a guide to places to stay and eat, and great information about India.

4. Holy Cow – India Travel Book

Author – Sarah Macdonald

Holy Cow is among the best travel guide books for India . This book describes a rollercoaster ride through a land full of contradictions and chaos with a woman who is on a mission for her soul, her love life, and her sanity. Sarah MacDonald, an ABC journalist, spent two years on the Indian sub-continent before preparing this book.

5. India Bites You Somehow – True Life Tales

Author – Kai Mayerfeld

This book features stories about westerners who have lived in India. This book contains 40 real-life stories from people who traveled to India from 19 different countries. Although it is not intended to be a guidebook, this book offers a glimpse into Indian spiritual life. 

India Bites You Somehow – True Life Tales is among the best books on Indian travel . This book will help you connect to India if you haven’t yet set foot in India. This collection of stories from travelers around the globe will open your eyes to India.

6. Frommer’s India – Travelling Books India

Author – Pippa De Bruyn

Frommer’s India is among the best Indian travel guide books . It is a guidebook that will help you plan your trip from the beginning. This book is handy if you’re looking for tips on traveling in India. Frommer’s India book covers everything you need to know about India: where to stay, what food to eat, driving there, how to avoid being scammed, and how to make the most of your time.

7. Wanderlust and Lipstick: A Guide for Women Travelling to India

Author – Beth Whitman

Wanderlust and Lipstick: A Guide For Women Travelling To India book was written with women in mind. This book focuses on India’s culture and offers travel tips, such as how safe to be, what to wear, how you can deal with poverty, how personal belongings are safe, and a list of Hindi words. Wanderlust and Lipstick: A Guide For Women Travelling To India is among the best Indian travel guide books . This book also includes advice from women who have traveled abroad.

8. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Best Indian Travel Book

Author – Anna Streiffert

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide will take you to India, where you can join thousands of people visiting India to see the Taj Mahal lit up in the morning light, or enjoy Goa’s golden shores. This book is among the best travel guide books for India .

India’s vast landscapes are as varied as they are inspiring. Modern skyscrapers meet centuries-old mosques in cities while tigers glide through lush jungles that separate the Himalayan heights from the beaches of the Keralan coast.

The updated guide to India transports you there like no other guide. It features expert-led advice and insights, photos on almost every page, and hand-drawn illustrations that place you in the iconic buildings and neighborhoods of the country.

9. India – Culture Smart: The Essential Guide To Customs & Culture

Author – Becky Stephen

India’s 1.2 billion inhabitants are as diverse and vibrant as Old Delhi’s spice markets. Every region, caste, and community has its own culture. Each one reflects unique history shaped by religion, creativity, conquest, and war. The Indians, a people steeped in old traditions and extremely fatalistic, are passionate about their culture and are world leaders in science and technology. If you show interest in their country, it will be repaid with warmth and friendship.

 India – Culture Smart: The Essential Guide To Customs & Culture will teach you the fundamental values and behavior norms of India, help you navigate cultural differences, build relationships and provide invaluable insight into this fascinating, vast land. All this makes this book among the best Indian travel guide books .

10. Fodor’s Essential India – Best Travel Guide Books

Author – Fodor’s Travel Guides

If you are looking for an India travel book pdf , you can search for Fodor’s Essential India . Fodor’s Essential India was written by locals and is the ideal guidebook for anyone looking for tips on how to get the best out of their trip to Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities. This India travel guide includes detailed maps and brief descriptions that will make it easy to plan your trip.

India is a country full of exciting and intriguing contrasts. There are beautiful palaces juxtaposed with simple temples. Modern high-tech industry mixes well with traditional customs and rituals. This vast country is rich in attractions and activities. Fodor’s Essential India provides a comprehensive guide to the best sights and things to do.

There are many travel books by Indian authors for you to read. Indian travel writers such as Janhavi Acharekar, Anees Jung, Rosy Thomas, and Romola Butalia have written many amazing travel books. Make sure to read them all. Take care!

Read More – 

  • 25+ Most Important Things To Carry While Travelling
  • Top 10 Best Comfortable Cars For Travelling in India
  • Top 10 Best Indian Hotel Booking Websites or Apps
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  • Top 10 Best Indian Travel Vloggers On YouTube
  • Top 5 Bengali Travel YouTubers In Kolkata 
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Do you enjoy travelling? Do you enjoy reading travelogues? Amazing! We created this post to provide you with a detailed explanation of the best travel books available in India. Find the best Indian travel guides by reading this post.

Best Indian Travel Books

Best Indian Travel Guidebooks to Read Before You Travel to India

Essential india travel guide by mohan kapoor.

Essential India Travel Guide

Essential India Travel Guide

  • Every kind of traveller, including a business traveller and a partygoer.

The Essential Safety and Security Guide to Visiting India

The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India

The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India

  • Backpackers, adventurers, female travellers, and solo travellers.

Culture Smart India

India - Culture Smart

India - Culture Smart

  • Business travellers, newly shifted residents, and travellers on short-term projects.

Lonely Planet South India & Kerala

South India & Kerala Regional Guide by Lonely Planet

South India & Kerala Regional Guide by Lonely Planet

  • Family travellers, Solo travellers, and backpackers.

Insight Guides India

Insight Guides India

  • Every type of traveller and photographer.

DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra & Jaipur

DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

  • Backpackers, adventurers, & Solo travellers.

Travel Fearlessly in India

Travel Fearlessly In India

Travel Fearlessly In India

  • Female group travellers and female solo travellers.

Bradt Travel Guides: Jammu, Kashmir Valley, Ladakh & Zanskar

Bradt Travel Guides - Kashmir Valley, Ladakh, Zanskar

Bradt Travel Guides - Kashmir Valley, Ladakh, Zanskar

  • Adventurers, hikers, trekkers, and backpackers.

Fodor’s Essential India

Fodor’s Essential India

Fodor’s Essential India

  • Family, photographers, adventurers, and backpackers.

Lonely Planet India

Lonely Planet India

  • Family, female solo, and business travellers.

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7 books to read before travelling india (#3 and #4 is must read for women).

Top Tourist Attractions in India - Taj Mahal

I love reading and can’t imagine traveling without a book. Being a solo female traveler, I mostly prefer reading books based on travel stories, and practical experiences. Many great travel sites and blogs helping us, but to me, the ultimate guide is always a good travel book or guide. Here are some recommended travel books on India for all. I personally found useful and it was worth reading before planning a solo trip to India . Let me know which one you found useful most.

Whether you’re traveling solo, in groups or family, it’s always wise, knowing the specific country or destination well before traveling for the first. I planned for a Delhi and Rajasthan tour to India for the first time. I started reading two guidebooks, DK Eyewitness Top 10 Delhi (Pocket Travel Guide)  and Lonely Planet Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra (Regional Guide) . Later those guides were truly helpful for me during my visit to Delhi and Rajasthan.

Disclosure: All are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

  • 1 Lonely Planet India (Country Guide)
  • 2 India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
  • 3 India Travel Survival Guide For Women
  • 4 Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India
  • 5 Taj Mahal (Wonders of the World)
  • 6 DK Eyewitness India (Travel Guide)
  • 7 Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia
  • 8 Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save For Later Read!

Lonely Planet India (Country Guide)

Lonely Planet India (Country Guide)

Lonely Planet India is the number one best-selling travel guide to India. Every series by Lonely Planet is my all-time favorite. All information in this guide always has been so useful to me. Lonely Planet is always recommended as a trustworthy travel guide. And always hugely popular for every traveler from every corner of the globe.

This guide covered many essential travel information, tips, insights, features according to traveler choices and budgets. Many maps, images, 3D illustrative plans, and reviews made this guide a great companion for all time in all ways.

  • History, culture, and traditions of India
  • India tourism
  • Places to visit in India
  • Where to stay
  • Where to eat
  • Money-saving tips to get around in India
  • Colorful maps and images of popular destinations
  • Budget-friendly travel tips, reviews, and updated travel information

India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

India - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Wherever you travel in the world, it is always best practice to know the culture and customs of that specific country or place. In India, each state follows different customs. So, before traveling to a vast country like India knowing the proper culture, and lifestyle is a must. And definitely essential for all travelers. Becky Stephen , an American writer who herself stayed in India for five years and perfectly depicted Indian culture from her own experience in India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture .

This smart travel guidebook is an informative one. It will definitely help you to know many practical tips and guidance about India and Indian culture. Indian culture is smartly changing day by day and coming out from old philosophy and thoughts. A must-read essential travel guide for all times in India.

  • The culture and customs of India
  • Understanding the cultural differences
  • Social customs and tradition
  • Practical tips and guidance to understand Indian culture

India Travel Survival Guide For Women

India Travel Survival Guide For Women

India Travel Survival Guide For Women is a must-read book for all solo female travelers in India written by Indian traveler and blogger Shalu Sharma . This book dedicated to all female travelers around by thinking about their safety issues while traveling in India. Being a woman she herself understood and tried to sort out all kinds of trouble one female traveler can face or facing in India.

This is a complete book to know how to travel safely, how to stay safe in hotels, what to wear, and most importantly, how to tackle or prevent any physical harassment by any locals while travel solo or in groups in India. It is useful to read before every tour in India.

  • Practical and essential safety tips on traveling India
  • How to travel your own in India
  • How to overcome any awkward situation or physical harassment
  • What to wear in India
  • How to stay safe in Indian hotels

Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India

Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India

Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India is one more great and must-read book. Beth Whitman , the author of this book herself got 23 years of travel experience and illustrated her practical pieces of advice and many suggestions to help women around the world. From this book, you can also get essential advice from more than 35 women who already traveled the world.

This book focused on understanding culture first. Then need to know how to train yourself the proper way while traveling on your own in India. This author is also famous for Wanderlust and Lipstick: The Essential Guide for Women Traveling Solo

Wanderlust and Lipstick: The Essential Guide for Women Traveling Solo

  • Indian culture
  • Practical travel advice from more than 35 women travelers
  • How to dress in India
  • Essential travel tips to stay safe

Taj Mahal (Wonders of the World)

Taj Mahal (Wonders of the World)

Traveling in India and not visiting the wonders of the world? Not possible. And so if you are planning for a Taj Mahal tour in Agra then Taj Mahal (Wonders of the World)  by Giles Tillotson is a must-read for all travelers. This book contains all inside stories, histories, and details about this magnificent marble mausoleum by the Emperor Shah Jahan. You should not miss reading this book before visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Taj Mahal, the monument of eternal love is still a great surprise for all people around. Do we all know the amazing history of this amazing creation or architect? Many we don’t know yet and so should go through this book before visiting.

  • History of Taj Mahal
  • The story behind the creation of Taj Mahal
  • The magnificent beauty of Mughal architecture

DK Eyewitness India (Travel Guide)

DK Eyewitness India (Travel Guide)

DK Eyewitness India (Travel Guide) is a must-read travel guide by DK Publishing with detailed instructions about top travel attractions in India. There are many historical and religious architects or landmarks in India. This guide is also full of many photographs and maps which is much helpful while visiting the specific destination.

Through this guide, you can also get a complete list of popular shops, hotels, and restaurants. So traveling incredible India near or coming future? Yes, so before traveling to India for the first time one must read this guide at least once.

  • Must-see destinations in India
  • Expert travel tips and advice
  • Hidden gems in India to explore
  • Where to shop
  • How to travel around India
  • Best places to eat and drink

Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia

Eat Pray Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia

Eat Pray Love is a New York Times Bestseller book by American author Elizabeth Gilbert.  This is an inspiring true story and a memoir of her life. Here Gilbert has shown how she finds the ultimate happiness and the true meaning of life and love throughout her journey in Italy, India, and Indonesia.

Gilbert spent four months in Italy, eating and enjoying life (Eat). She spent four months in India , finding the power of prayer (Pray). And she ended the year in Bali , Indonesia, looking for the balance of the two and found love (Love). This book proves that there really has more than one way to let yourself go and see the world. The movie based on this book has inspired me to start traveling solo.

  • The true meaning of life through traveling
  • Different cultures of three different countries (Italy, India, Indonesia)
  • Understanding the various aspects of life

Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save For Later Read!

PS. I’m an Amazon Influencer! Check my Amazon page for an essential and stylish list of products that I recommend and love.

So, what else you’ll love to recommend here? Any travel books on India you read recently?

Last update on 2024-03-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Nafisa Habib loves nature and often got fascinated by old beautiful architecture. Here she is with My Own Way To Travel to share her adventures on the road. To her nothing is so interesting than exploring new destinations around. And knowing a new culture and meeting new peoples on the road? Oh, yeah she just loves that too.

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Best India Travel Guide Books: Planning a trip to India

Best India travel guide books: Planning a first trip to India. Travel tips for backpacking Asia.

So you’re planning your first trip to India!

It’s a daunting task.

India is a big country, and there is such diversity with so many things to do and so many places to visit!

With so much free information available online, where to even start planning your trip to India?!

Is it worth it to get a guidebook for India travel?

Planning a trip itinerary for India that’s several weeks long, or maybe even several months long, can turn into what feels like planning about 10 vacations! Not only do you need to make sure you know how to get an Indian tourist visa , but with each new city, there’s that much more to research!

For some people it might seem a bit lame to use a guidebook as a bible for travel to any destination. But when you’re short on time or you just don’t want to plan 10 vacations, it can be very helpful in making sure you visit the must-see places of any given region or city. (It just might be the cure for FOMO. ;))

And you can use a guidebook as just that — a guide. It can give you a very good start to planning your trip when you just have no idea where to start… or you’re looking to sort through the abundance of free travel guides online!

When you are short on time, flying can be a cost-effective way to travel long distances around India because of the budget airlines that are available in India.

Now, here’s what’s on this page of travel guidebooks to take a look at for planning your trip to India!

  • Get this guidebook with PDF  so you can do some really specific India planning like where to stay and where to eat so you don’t get sick
  • Get this guidebook so you can make a general plan based of your India itinerary of places to visit and what food to eat based on pretty pictures

So, which travel guidebooks might you use for planning a trip to India?

One of the best india guidebooks for planning each day’s itinerary, finding the best places to stay, and eating at the best restaurants.

Let’s start with the ultimate guidebook for travel to India .

So, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard of Lonely Planet travel guidebooks.

How is the Lonely Planet travel guide for India?

Well, once you get used to it, India is a country that can be easy to travel around because of the ease of being able to catch buses without advanced booking and the ease of being able to show up in a city without a guesthouse or hotel booking. (That said, sometimes advanced booking can be helpful!)

What makes that travel in India even easier?!

Lonely Planet India!

These are the top reasons to get Lonely Planet India:

  • Getting sick is a common occurrence among foreigners. The restaurant recommendations in the book can minimize your chance of getting food poisoning! And in case you do get sick, here’s how to treat traveler’s diarrhea naturally .
  • Getting ripped off is also a common occurrence among foreigners. The book will give a price range for guesthouses, activities, and rickshaw rides in a given city. This will make you feel more confident knowing that you’re not paying way too much!
  • Sometimes it’s easier to just show up in a city and look for accommodation. The book can give you the best places to stay so you are not aimlessly wandering around. In the case that you want to pre-book your hotel, it can give you recommendations!
  • And of course the book has a list of the best places to visit in any given city! It will give you ideas on nearby famous destinations. It also lists the best way to get to your next destination, as well as the best way to get around any city.

You can read some of the reviews here for using Lonely Planet India when traveling.

For easy planning when you’re on the road in India, here are some guidebooks to take a look at:

  • Lonely Planet: India (best of the whole country)
  • Lonely Planet: Rajasthan, Delhi, and Agra (includes best of the famous Golden Triangle)
  • Lonely Planet: South India and Kerala
  • Lonely Planet: Goa and Mumbai

These include the option of a pdf travel guide or e-book too, so be sure to have a look!

India is a big country, which means there’s a ton to cover. The Lonely Planet India book is over 1,000 pages which means it’s pretty bulky. Having the travel guide in pdf form on your phone can cut back on the weight of your backpack! It can also be helpful in finding a nearby place to eat when you’re out and about on an excursion.

Now, if you do still have a few weeks or months before your trip to India…

One of the best India guidebooks for figuring out the pretty places you want to visit

One of the negatives about Lonely Planet India is that aside from the city maps and information tables of buses and trains, it’s pretty much all text.

This text is incredibly helpful when trying to figure out where to stay and places to eat, in particular when you’re not planning too far ahead.

But if you’re wanting to figure out what the name of that temple you saw on Pinterest  😉 is called, Lonely Planet India won’t be able to really help you with that.

So it can be best used in conjunction with another resource.

Or once again, in order to have the best of India all in one place so you don’t have to sift through so much information, there’s an India guidebook for that! 😉

For planning your trip to India using pictures, take a look at:

  • DK Eyewitness Travel: India
  • DK Eyewitness Travel: Delhi, Jaipur, Agra

DK Eyewitness India isn’t necessarily the best for travel tips when it comes to things like specific ways of how to get around. But at the back of the book, there is a big list of recommendations for where to stay and places to eat, arranged mostly by state. Still, for practical travel tips when you’re on the road, Lonely Planet India is pretty good.

But DK Eyewitness India will give you the pictures, along with the descriptions of what makes each place significant. So instead of just listing a foreign name of a place that you are sure to forget, it gives you that image that your memory will likely better retain.

Or if you won’t be doing too much pre-planning of places to visit before your trip to India, you may like all the colorful images to help you decide where you want to go once you arrive in any given city. The street-by-street city maps also include pictures. This makes it so that when you look at the map, you will see what the market or palace looks like at a specific location.

Using DK Eyewitness India as your guidebook when traveling in India might turn you into a foodie! There are food sections that list the local dishes and specialties of a region. These come with pretty pictures of the food, and you just might end up wanting to try all the food when in India! 😉 So if you’re looking forward to trying the diversity of food options available in India, you might like this book too.

The tagline for DK Eyewitness is “the guides that show you what others only tell you”… and this is what the guidebook does through its abundance of colorful pictures!

Now, is it really necessary to take 2 guidebooks with you to India?!

That does sound like overkill.

Plus, that’ll add weight to your backpack and take up more space than you probably want it to.

In which case, you might want to lean towards  Lonely Planet India . It really can be used as a bible for your trip to India. And showing up in a city and knowing where to stay and safe places to eat (so you don’t get sick!) can be superbly helpful.

Be sure to have a look at what might be able to speed up your recovery if you do get sick with traveler’s diarrhea.

Well, what if you want your India guidebooks to have the pictures of the best places to visit and  a bunch of useful travel tips when traveling around India?!

If you can commit to doing at least a little bit of planning ahead of time, DK Eyewitness India really can help you see India in pictures in a simple way.

Lonely Planet India can be even more helpful on the road when you’re in India, so consider using DK Eyewitness India for trip planning when you’re still at home. Then leave DK Eyewitness behind instead of taking it with you to India so you don’t have to lug around that extra weight.

And, if you’re not planning on taking it to India with you, you may even see if the guidebook is available at your local library.

One of the problems with borrowing travel books at libraries is that the only version that the library has might be one from 10 years ago. But with DK Eyewitness India, if your primary purpose is to look at the pictures, it generally shouldn’t really be a problem even if the book is a little outdated.

With Lonely Planet India on the other hand, if you’re using it mainly for hotel recommendations and restaurant recommendations, it’s probably best to get a book that’s been updated in the past couple of years. Here are the most recent versions.

What if you just really don’t want to make room in your backpack for a guidebook?! 😉

And then of course, if you don’t want to carry any extra weight in the form of an India guidebook, you always have the trusty Lonely Planet India PDF !

But do make sure you make room for that international first aid kit for India !

Best India travel guide books: Planning a first trip to India. Travel tips for backpacking Asia.

HAPPY INDIA TRIP PLANNING!

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DK Top 10 Delhi

Dorling Kindersley

£ 8.99

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DK Top 10 Mumbai

travel guide india book

DK Top 10 Goa

Rough Guide to South India & Kerala

Rough Guide to South India & Kerala

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£ 16.99

Lonely Planet India

Lonely Planet India

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£ 20.99

travel guide india book

Marco Polo India

£ 6.99

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£ 20.00

Lonely Planet Best of India

Lonely Planet Best of India

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£ 18.99

Jammu & the Kashmir Valley Bradt Guide

Ladakh, Jammu & the Kashmir Valley Bradt Guide

Bradt Travel Guides

£ 17.99

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India Insight Guide

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Rajasthan Insight Guide

Recommended Non-Fiction reading for India

The Shortest History of India

The Shortest History of India

John Zubrzycki

Courting India: England, Mughal India and The Origins of Empire

Courting India: England, Mughal India and The Origins of Empire

Nandini Das

Dethroned: The Downfall of India’s Princely States

Dethroned: The Downfall of India’s Princely States

Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cookery

Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cookery

Madhur Jaffrey

Empires of the Indus

Empires of the Indus

Alice Albinia

Royals and Rebels: The Rise and Fall of the Sikh Empire

Royals and Rebels: The Rise and Fall of the Sikh Empire

Priya Atwal

The House of Jaipur

The House of Jaipur

Anaximander: and The Nature of Science

Anaximander: and The Nature of Science

Carlo Rovelli

Eliot’s Book of Bookish Lists

Eliot’s Book of Bookish Lists

Henry Eliot

150 Vineyards You Need To Visit Before You Die

150 Vineyards You Need To Visit Before You Die

Shana Clarke

Sophia:  Princess, Suffragette, Revolutionary

Sophia: Princess, Suffragette, Revolutionary

Anita Anand

The Patient Assassin

The Patient Assassin

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Bandit Queens

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The Covenant of Water

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The Lives of Others

Neel Mukherjee

A State of Freedom

A State of Freedom

The Lost Man of Bombay

The Lost Man of Bombay

Vaseem Khan

One Small Voice

One Small Voice

Santanu Bhattacharya

The Cook

Ajay Chowdhury

Dawnlands

Philippa Gregory

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A Necessary Evil

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Smoke and Ashes

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A Rising Man

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The extensive section of travel books at Amazon.in is a treat to the globetrotter or pretty much anyone with a sense of wanderlust. From magazines to maps, atlases, holiday guides, travel writing books and more, you will find it all at Amazon India.Unravel the mystery behind the pillars of the Doge Palace in Venice, learn about the hidden tunnels and bomb shelters under Old Geneva or let your imagination take you through the forbidden island off the coast of New York, all this and more through the ‘Secret’ series by Jongles, that costs an average of just Rs. 713 on Amazon.in

Here at Amazon we offer some of the best-selling travel and holiday guides. Do not forget to skim through the Lonely Planet range of holiday guides written for each country. These books help you plan your holiday itinerary well and have special images and 3D illustrations. Also included is plenty of advice on the best time to travel to these destinations, what to see, what to skip, what not to miss and more. They also have maps to assist your touring of your holiday destination.For those looking to embark on a journey of the mind instead, you might want to check out our collection of travel stories such as the popular biopic of Che Guevera titled The Motorcycle Diaries or Seven Years in Tibet, a thrilling account of Heinrich Harrer, the famed mountaineer who had to flee to Tibet after his conquest of the Everest.

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Complete India Travel Guide 

INDIA IS ONE OF the world’s most fascinating travel destinations. A billion people, an ancient and unbroken culture, a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, smells … and one of the fastest changing societies on earth. There is nothing like your first India trip, your first visit to India. You find out fast that Incredible India really does accurately describe a place that is unlike anywhere else. All of the best India travel tips on earth can only go so far when you’re hit with the sensory overload and culture shock that comes with tourism to India.

On the other hand, you will never feel so alive, may never make so many travel memories, and may never again have such a life-changing and transformative trip. And it doesn’t matter what India destinations you visit, what tourist attractions or places. Travel in India will hit you between the eyes on your first visit, no matter what. But having said that, with proper research and a bit of hand-holding, you can experience more of the magic of travel to India and less of the madness. And that’s the point of this post, this India travel blog, and my India for Beginners custom tours .

Why am I qualified to write this travel to India guide?

I was drawn to India from an early age. When I finally made the leap and started travelling in India in 2005, I was hooked. I’ve spent more than  six eight nine years altogether travelling the length and breadth of the subcontinent, largely solo, since 2005 and now live in Rishikesh, the Yoga capital of the world  Delhi.(I’m also a very long-time Yoga student.)

I’ve been writing and blogging about India and my travels in India since 2005, researching India travel destinations, attending travel conferences, and getting to know the travel industry (and who the best travel agencies in India are). I have had a lifetime of travel experiences here and I want to share everything I’ve learned with you in this India Travel Guide, through the other posts on this site, and through my partnerships with trusted companies.

I have a B.A. in Journalism from Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada; a Yoga Teacher Training certificate from Yoga Space in Toronto, Canada, a certificate from the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Chennai; and I am a TICO certified travel agent in Ontario, Canada. I’ve been the lucky recipient of many awards for travel writing and blogging; in 2019 I won the National Tourism Award for Best Foreign Travel Journalist / Blogger from Incredible India Tourism.

Top questions about travel in India

Where are the best places to visit in india, what are the best destinations and tourist attractions in india, how much time do i need to travel in india, how do i avoid getting sick in india, do i need a visa to visit india, what is the weather like where should i travel by month, how do i travel by train in india, what indian festivals should i attend.

  • Is travel in India safe? Can women travel alone in India?

What should women wear while travelling in India?

  • What are the best tours to India?

Where should I go to find off-beat places in India?

  • What are the best India travel guide books?

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Travel Guide to Udaipur, India

The best places to visit in India are the ones that call you. They may or may not be the most well-known. Many people feel they have to visit the Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra for the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur – on their first trip to India. But you don’t. India has amazing places all over the country, some of which are not well publicized.

India is called a subcontinent because of the vast range of landscape, geography, and climate. Within the borders of India, you can find the soaring snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the desert state of Rajasthan , the lush rainforests of South India, the tropical beaches of Goa, Kerala, Karnataka, and other states, and the jungles of central India, where tigers roam. You can travel in India throughout the year, following the seasons and climate, and never get bored. India is also home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites . You could literally travel around the country visiting incredible heritage sites. 

India has some of the most spectacular hotels in the world. Read my guide to the Best hotels in India and how to book them for inspiration and ideas.

There are so many amazing destinations and tourist attractions to choose from, it’s actually hard to know where to begin. A lot of it will depend on your interests. Most people start in the major cities. Make sure you read my extensive Travel Guide to Delhi if you land in the capital to begin your trip. Mumbai is an incredible city to visit, and I also love Varanasi, Amritsar, Rishikesh, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer.

Along with an incredible diversity of landscape and climate, India is also incredibly diverse in terms of culture, so I would recommend getting to several different states. They are literally as different from each other as European countries are. My favourite states are Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala. But of course I also like Goa, Punjab, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Odisha. The rest I need to get to!

As for tourist attractions and landmarks, believe it or not, there are many monuments that can compete with the Taj Mahal for the wow factor – places like Ellora and Ajanta , Hampi , Mahabalipuram, Khajuraho, the forts and palaces of Rajasthan . There are so many – India has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to antiquity. Just have a look at my Landmarks of India post for a sample.

And of course there are innumerable spiritual places in India to visit. The list would be never-ending, however, you could start with Varanasi, Rishikesh, Pushkar, Dharamsala, and Haridwar. 

The first time I visited to India, I spent six months travelling the length and breadth of the country, and I’m really glad I did. It took me several months just to get my “India legs” and feel confident and comfortable. And it took the entire journey for me to immerse into the culture and begin to get to know it. India is vast, and ancient, and complicated — and every statement you can make about India, you find out eventually the opposite is also true.

Having said that, my advice is to take at least 2-3 weeks, preferably a month or two. You won’t regret it IF you are one of the people who falls madly in love with India. I also recommend that you don’t move around too much. Travel in India is tiring; it really is the ideal destination for slow travel. Pick one or two different regions and sink in. Don’t worry about FOMO (fear of missing out): India is always India. You won’t miss anything.

Many people are concerned about getting sick in India and looking for ways to stay healthy and prevent travelers diarrhea aka Delhi Belly. Check out my top tips and comprehensive guide on How to avoid getting sick in India .

For more tips on staying healthy in India, read:

  • How to use the toilet in India and use water instead of toilet paper
  • Boost your immune system and stay healthy with Yoga

What should I eat in India?

India is a foodie’s paradise. There is amazing food all across the country, and it differs significantly from region to region. The type of food that westerners know as “Indian food” is most typically Punjabi food — butter chicken, palak paneer, naan, roti, etc. But there are many, many other cuisines in India. The one things they all have in common is flavour! Indians like lots of flavour and use lots of spices. Not every dish is hot ‘n spicy, but most are very flavourful.

Quite often, when visitors develop “traveler’s tummy,” they are not sick, they are just adjusting to food and beverages that are completely new and different. Sometimes traveler’s get the runs, and sometimes constipation (believe it or not). This is normal. Switching to bland food like rice, toast, and bananas for a few days should do the trick.

Here’s some reading on Breathedreamgo about the food in India:

  • 20 famous foods of India (with recipes)
  • Guide to the famous foods of Delhi
  • Unique guide to Mumbai street food

Yes, you need a Visa to travel in India. Click here for for information on obtaining an Indian tourist Visa . 

How much does it cost to travel in India?

It can cost from $20 a day to $2000 and more. Much more. India really does represent the complete spectrum of dirt-cheap hotels, guest houses, and hostels all the way up to some of the most incredible — and expensive — hotels in the world. If you are a backpacker or budget traveller, check out this budget guide to backpacking in India .

Like everything in India, the weather is extreme. And you would be very wise to do some research and plan your trip accordingly. India is a subcontinent, and this means that within the country’s borders you can find a very wide range of landscapes, geographies, and climates — from the soaring, snow-covered Himalayas to the dry deserts of Rajasthan, and from the tropical beaches of Kerala to the jungles of Madhya Pradesh.

But, generally speaking the seasons in India follow like this:

  • Winter : Winter in India is from December to February and it’s a pleasant time to be in most parts of the country except the North and the mountains, where it can get very cold and snowy. Be prepared: places like Delhi, Rajasthan, and Rishikesh get COLD in late December and through January. But in tropical South India, winter is perfect.
  • Shoulder seasons : October and November and February to April are the best times to be in most of India. It can still be cold in the mountains, and rainy in the Northeast, but otherwise, these are the optimum months to visit India.
  • Monsoon : There are two monsoons in India. There’s a monsoon that hits the west coast (Kerala) in early June and travels north — it’s the more well-known one. There’s another monsoon in the fall that hits the east coast, especially West Bengal and the Northeast.
  • Summer . Summer in India is hot. May and June are the two hottest months, with the north and the plains searing. They get some relief when the monsoon hits, but then it becomes humid and sticky. I would avoid India May-to-August if possible, except for the mountains and hill stations. Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are the best states to visit in summer — though the Chardham Yatra in Garwhal, Uttarakhand attracts masses of pilgrims and the roads are clogged with traffic. 

Indian train at Indian railway platform

Taking the train in India is one of those experiences you really shouldn’t miss. It’s an adventure and it gives you a taste of “the real India,”  away from the tourist centres. There’s a lot you need to know about booking, and about different types of trains and classes. I wrote this detailed guide to Taking the train in India — which also includes travelling by plane, bus, auto, taxi and more. 

Indian festivals tend to be big, rowdy, colourful, and rambunctious. And plentiful. There are festivals every day of the year, though many are regional or religious. I live in India and I constantly hear about festivals I’ve never heard of before! The really big festivals, however, are usually pan-India or state-wide. Some are mostly in North India, like Diwali. And some are mostly in South India, like Pongal. 

Before you book your trip to India there are a couple of festivals you need to know about — as they can affect traffic and travel. Number one is Diwali, which is basically Christmas in India. Everything shuts down for about three days, and it’s hard to move around. The date changes every year, because it’s based on the lunar calendar, so do check. Same with Holi in North India.

Check out my post Top 5 Festivals for foreign visitors to India to read about Diwali, Holi, the Pushkar Camel Fair, Ganesh Chaturthi (Mumbai) and Durga Puja (Kolkata). Also check out:

  • What you need to know about Holi
  • How (and where) to celebrate Diwali in India
  • Complete Guide to Durga Puja in Kolkata

Is India safe? Can women travel alone in India?

The negative media attention India has received in the last six years or so has skewed the perception of travel in India. I understand why women are concerned about travel safety in India, there have been some terrible incidents, and it can be very uncomfortable to be a woman in India.

However, if you are ready, take the right precautions, and use common sense, there is no reason why you can’t travel safely in India — barring the unexpected. Bad things can happen anywhere, so there’s no guarantees. 

I’ve travelled extensively alone in India over the past 13 years, and I have been uncomfortable on many occasions — but I have never really felt unsafe or threatened. I HIGHLY recommend that you read this post: Is India safe? My top 20 tips for women travelling in India . And this one: Female solo travel in India: Girls guide to being rude . 

It’s unfortunate that a travel guide to India must include sections on women’s safety and preferred clothing. But that’s the way it is, we must deal with reality. India is a traditional society in the throes of great change, and it’s very wise to understand this and dress and act accordingly. I HIGHLY recommend that you read this post: What to wear when travelling in India for detailed suggestions. 

What are the best tours in India?

I always recommend that first time visitors to India take a tour. It’s the best way to ease into travel in India, which can be very challenging until you learn the ropes. You can take a small group tour, or a custom tour.

  • Custom tours. I offer India for Beginners custom tours to give people a helping hand.
  • Small group tours. There are a lot of great small group tour companies, but two of my favourites are G Adventure and Intrepid Travel. You can read more about whether G Adventures or Intrepid Travel tours are right for you here .

What are the best travel guide books?

In India, the main tourism circuit is called the Golden Triangle: Delhi-Agra-Jaipur. The other most popular tourist states for foreigners are Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala. There are a lot of amazing places to visit in Rajasthan alone! Mumbai, Rishikesh, Dharamsala and Pondicherry also get quite a lot of foreign tourists. The rest of the country — which is a LOT — is basically offbeat. 

Off-beat India tends to have very little in the way of tourism infrastructure in place, so it is for the more adventurous traveller. If you step off the well-travelled path, you will find unspoilt landscapes, friendly and honest people, and a non-stereotypical experience of India that may surprise you. It’s also a good idea to pursue these un-touristy locations if you support the principles of Responsible Tourism, which includes packing reusable water bottles and other zero waste products .

Here are a few ideas for getting off-the-beaten-track in India:

  • What life is like in a  Yoga Ashram
  • Get off the beaten path in Chhattisgarh
  • Bundi: An unpolished gem
  • 22 offbeat places to visit in India
  • Responsible Tourism Guide to India
  • A Himalayan adventure
  • Namaste Orchha, India’s Hidden Gem
  • The best places to visit in Tamil Nadu .

More reading on Breathedreamgo about travel in India

  • How to speak English in India
  • Learning basic Hindi for travellers
  • Best movies about India
  • Top 25 Books about India  

Destinations in India and itineraries

Best places to visit in Mumbai on a 3-day itinerary 

Perfect 3-day Delhi itinerary

Ideal 2-week Kerala itinerary  

Offbeat and local Madhya Pradesh itinerary 

Where should I go in Goa?

The best places to visit in Goa

Where should I go in Rajasthan?

Guide to Rajasthan

The sacred and the profane at the Pushkar Camel Fair

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10 best india travel books.

You will often hear people saying; that India is a dirty, filthy place full of beggars with terrible food – why on earth would you want to go there? Don’t let them put you off. India is undoubtedly one of the most colorful countries in the world with friendly people, great food, trek-able mountains, valleys, beaches, deserts, tiger reserves, culture , extremely eccentricity, tribal villages , tropical forests, great history , making India one of the most visited placed on the planet. In fact – it’s a museum.

If you are planning a vacation in India and know little about the country then why not buy a book on India . These books can be quite useful in providing information about India, places to visit, what to eat, where to stay on. Here are some of the best travel books on India.

Rough guide to India : One of the best guides to India. In fact, these Rough Guide Books competes with the Lonely Planet guides. These books are courageously honest about the places. The book every aspect of India from its history, language, politics, culture, food, corruption, bribes, sex, drugs and Bollywood movies and much more. It’s one of the most complete and comprehensive guide to India.

travel guide india book

India (Lonely Planet Travel Guides) : This is a very popular and a must guide if you are planning a trip to India for the first time. The book contains traveler maps, guide to places to stay and eat for all budgets, great health information for travelling to India, history, about the use of transportation in India and even has a section on India’s religions.

travel guide india book

Frommer’s India : This is a classic guide book that plans your journey from the start. It is a useful book if you are looking tips to travelling in India. It does cover a large amount of detail from where to stay, what to eat, driving in India, how to prevent yourself from being ripped off and how to spend your limited time in India.

travel guide india book

Enjoying India : This is one of my books! I think this book is a must if you are planning a trip to India. Some people visit India but have no idea what to do and what to eat. In this book I have covered the things to do and things to eat when you are there. This book will give traveler knowledge to navigate this vast land and make the best out of India.

travel guide india book

India Bites You Somehow – True-Life Tales : This book contains stories about those westerners who have stayed in India. This book is a collection of interesting true life experiences from 40 people from 19 countries who have travelled to India. It’s not a guide book to India as such but it provides a glimpse into the spiritual lives of Indian people. For those who have not set their foot on India and still considering if to visit or not, then this book will connect you to India like no other. These life experiences of various travelers from around the world will surely open your eyes and heart about India.

travel guide india book

Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure : when Sarah MacDonald when to India for the first time, she had made her mind up that she hated India. When a beggar at the airport looked at the fate lines on her hand and told her that she would return. However after 12 years she returned with her reporter boyfriend. This is her travelogue about the description of pollution, dirt and chaos of India.

travel guide india book

Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India: This book has been written taking women travelers in mind. This book highlights the culture of India and suggests travel tips such as how to be safe, what to wear, how to deal with poverty, how to keep personal belongings safe, list of Hindi words and advice from women who have traveled abroad.

Other travel guide books for India worthy of note:

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: India India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture Fodor’s Essential India: with Delhi, Rajasthan, the Taj Mahal & Mumbai

Remember, travel guide books are for information only. Many of the books go out of date. Not all of them will always be accurate by the time of your visit. In addition, travel is very subjective and they are subject to prejudice. Mark Twain once said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” Some people just make their own minds through the lens of their own prejudice. So why not take a guide book with you to help you out for the pollution, filth, chaos and the inequality that awaits you.

travel guide india book

By the way, I have recently published another book on Indian culture . It will be useful for those wanting to learn about the culture and traditions of India. To find more about this book click here .  Let me know if I have missed anything.

travel guide india book

You might wish to check out my India travel guide book .  Some of this things covered in this book include how to stay safe and healthy, how to communicate effectively, how to avoid cultural blunders, accommodation needs, how to bargain effectively when shopping, how to get a seat on a fully booked train, coping with India and so on.

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Memory Piece

Memory Piece

Life rarely turns out the way in which we expect, and the three friends at the center of Lisa Ko's new novel are no exception. Growing up together, the women bond over teenage alienation and big dreams of big lives. Some of those dreams come true, but just as often—as the book flashes from the 1980s and '90s into the 2040s—the characters are confronted with the disappointments and mundane disasters of everyday life. Still, Ko's book is a moving, sharply observed portrait of friendship and discovering what it means to live a worthwhile life—whether or not it's anything like what we'd hoped.

Wolf at the Table

Wolf at the Table

What's the price of unconditional love? What begins as a story of a family in Upstate New York during the 1950s follows the Larkin children through their lives, watching as each strives, with varying degrees of success, to find their place in the world. One of these kids, however, is different than the others. And while he drifts (or is pushed; depends on who you ask) from his family, who he becomes will be an issue that impacts them all. Rapp's novel is at once a big, bold story of where we come from and how we get where we're going and also a fascinating look at coping with evil in the places that are supposed to keep us safe.

Candy Darling: Dreamer, Icon, Superstar

Candy Darling: Dreamer, Icon, Superstar

For a long time, Candy Darling has been a fascinating footnote to other people's stories: a Warhol superstar, the inspiration for a Lou Reed hit, a muse to the Rolling Stones. Now, thanks to this biography from the remarkable Cynthia Carr (who wrote a stellar 2012 biography of David Wojnarowicz), Darling gets her turn as a main character in a book that tells her story as well as one about American culture, New York City, and the beginnings of a movement that would still be brewing 50 years later.

A Very Private School

A Very Private School

Princess Diana's brother, Charles Spencer, turns his attention to his time at Maidwell Hall boarding school growing up. "I spent five years of my childhood in this school, trying to crack the code by which it lived. Now, forty-five years on, I think I’m finally there. I’m writing this book before my memories of half a century ago tip over into that chasm of forgetfulness that shadows old age," Spencer said in a statement. More on his memoir, here.

The Audacity

The Audacity

Things are not going well for Victoria Stevens. The tech billionaire has disappeared in the hours before a story will drop exposing her entire operation as fraudulent, and it seems as though she's left her husband holding the bag. In this funny, observant novel, Ryan Chapman follows the pair in their very different ways of dealing (one goes off the grid, the other goes wild on a private island where the world's richest people have convened) and in doing so, looks closely at the state of wealth and the world today. Pick this one up with Dorothy Parker's immortal words in mind: "If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to."

All the World Beside

All the World Beside

In 18th-century New England, keeping up appearances is paramount—especially in a place like Cana, a religious community founded by Reverend Nathaniel Whitfield. But what lurks beneath the surface for Whitfield is something he'd never want to share with those neighbors. His relationship with the local doctor isn't only a secret, but something both men fear might be a sign of evil creeping into their utopia. In this moving and powerful novel, Garrard Conley follows the men and their families as the tension between their piety and desires becomes impossible to ignore.

What the Mountains Remember

What the Mountains Remember

This latest from the author of All the Pretty Places and The Grand Design follows Belle Newbold, a young woman at the turn of the 20th century who thinks she knows what it is she wants, but finds herself surprised and changed by what fate has in store. When a trip brings Belle and her soon-to-be-husband—practically a stranger– together in the mountains, a terrain she's attempted to avoid since a tragedy years before, everything she thought she knew about love and the life she desired is changed forever.

The Sicilian Inheritance

The Sicilian Inheritance

A mysterious inheritance, a decades-old murder, and a trip halfway around the world collide in this compelling new novel and a young woman whose unexpected windfall is just the beginning of a thrilling and dangerous adventure. When Sara Marsala returns to her ancestral homeland of Sicily, she has no clue that her trip will uncover a family secret and set her on a path that will change her life—and perhaps those of all the women who come from the same small village. Jo Piazza's book is a charming page turner packed with wit and wicked twists that will keep readers engrossed—until, of course, they set it down to plan their own trips abroad.

The Limits

Nell Freudenberger's latest is a globe-spanning epic that tackles questions of family, faith, and the fate of the world. When teenager Pia leaves her scientist mother behind in Tahiti to spend time with her father (and his new wife) in New York City, she had no idea what would lay ahead for her. But as she tries to find her place in this new family dynamic, the world comes grinding to a halt, what's important to Pia—and a cast of other unforgettable characters—shifts dramatically, revealing the true desires that drive a seemingly disparate but ultimately intertwined group of people across the world.

Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder

Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder

In August of 2022, Salman Rushdie—the writer of books including Midnight's Children and The Satanic Verses —survived a vicious attack a lecture in New York State. Here, he shares for the first time his recollections of the event and also his thoughts on life and art in the wake of it.

The Backyard Bird Chronicles

The Backyard Bird Chronicles

What can we learn if we sit still and take in the world around us? Amy Tan's latest asks this question, as the author compiles writing and her own artwork (as well as a foreword by David Allen Sibley) inspired by birding and discovers there are still lessons to be learned from the natural world, and great takeaways from observing instead of participating.

Dogland: Passion, Glory, and Lots of Slobber at the Westminster Dog Show

Dogland: Passion, Glory, and Lots of Slobber at the Westminster Dog Show

This delightful book takes readers inside the annual Westminster Dog Show, following the journey of a Samoyed named Striker as his competes with his handler, Laura, in the 2022 edition of the competition. If you're a dog person, have a passing interest in the world of dog shows, or even just really enjoyed the cult classic film from 2000, Best in Show : You won't want to miss Dogland .

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The travel checklist you need for a senior travelling with you

Travelling with an elderly person you can ensure a smooth experience for them (as well as for you) with mindful planning..

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travel with elderly

  • Keep the elderly person's medical history handy
  • Be flexible with the itinerary (keep room for rest breaks)
  • Ensure they carry knee-high compression socks

Travelling holds different meanings for different people. For some, it's the primary purpose of life itself; for others, it's a rejuvenating escape from a monotonous routine.

Regardless of how you perceive it, you cannot take it for granted. That’s a lesson Covid-19 taught us. The pandemic brought the world to a standstill, making many realise its significance. Being confined to their homes made people crave the simple freedom of booking a flight to explore a new destination.

Beyond the thrill and excitement, travelling can be a tad bit challenging for elderly people. With age comes the tendency to attract illnesses like a magnet attracts nails. Tasks as simple as walking can become daunting. Yet, age shouldn't be a barrier when it comes to travelling.

Travelling can be a medicine for their soul - bringing a change in scenery that barely goes beyond home, hospitals and nearby parks.

With careful planning and extra attention, you can ensure smoother travel experiences for elderly companions. Just keep in mind the following considerations:

Firstly, pack in lots of patience and empathy.

What is easy for you might be a tedious task for them. Think walking, or a 5-minute trek to see the most beautiful waterfall ever. It may also mean waiting an hour or more in the hotel for your elderly travel companion who is busy napping while you are dying to go to the beach.

Keep medical history handy

Collate everything on your phone – existing health issues, blood group, health insurance details, medications and their dosage, vaccination record, test reports and history of any surgery. In case of any health emergency, you will have their medical details handy no matter where you go. Carry emergency contact information of their doctor as well.

medical history

Every parent who throws a birthday party for their child will have to deal with the tyranny of party favors. Are they necessary? No, but kids love a goodie bag. The question I found myself asking was, what can I get that’s not a complete waste of money and won’t immediately go in the trash or drive adults up the wall? After throwing a combined six parties for two kids, the most recent one for my older son who just turned 5, I have a few ideas that don’t involve noisemakers, swirly straws (if I see another one of those again, I swear …), or junky plastic tchotchkes. I tried to stick to paper-based products as much as possible, or things that kids can actually use — and get excited about. Below, the best party favors for kids, as vetted by yours truly and several other Strategist parents.

Besweet Vinyl Waterproof Stickers - Pack of 100

Stickers are always a hit, and these waterproof ones that are inspired by Squishmallows are perfect for water bottles. Strategist senior editor Winnie Yang recently bought a bunch for her 8-year-old daughter , who likes to trade them with her classmates. This pack of 100 can easily be divided among goodie bags.

Puffy Dinosaur Stickers - 14 Sheets

For my older son’s dinosaur-themed birthday party last year, I got this pack of puffy dinosaur stickers that actually look pretty decent.

Holographic Silvery Star Stickers - 500 Pieces

A roll of sparkly stickers can also be fun. Cut off a few per kid, and you’re on your way.

Dover Decorative Butterflies Stickers

For my son’s fifth birthday last month, I bought a variety of these four-by-six-inch Dover Little Activity Books that included sticker , stained-glass coloring, and puzzle books . Because I was hosting around 45 kids, I picked all the ones that were $2 and under. I also got sticker books with shells , Audubon birds , hummingbirds , woodland animals , and reptiles .

Dover My Rain Forest Sticker Activity Book

This rainforest-themed book comes with little scenes on the end covers on which to place stickers. And here’s an activity sticker book for train enthusiasts .

Dover Little Mandalas Stained Glass Coloring Book

I also got a few of these coloring books that have designs printed on vellum paper that you can tear out and put on a window to catch the light.

Blank Pocket Sketch Notebook - 24 Pack

Another time, I gave out these Field Notes–esque notebooks that were actually pretty close to the real thing.

Blank Notebooks with Colorful Covers - 24 Pack

Here’s a mixed-color pack that’s just as nice as the plain ones above.

Express Pencils Neon Half Pencils with Erasers - 48 Pack

Because I personally do not need anymore broken crayons lying around the house, I opted for these neon half-pencils last year to go with the notebooks. I was imagining kids drawing quietly in their notebooks or pretending they were detectives, jotting down clues.

Assorted Colorful Cartoon Animal Pencils With Erasers - 50 Pack

This year, I got these fun, full-size pencils with cute animal erasers on them.

Hardcover Sketchbook - 3 Pack

A friend with older kids told me she bought these hardcover sketchbooks for her daughter’s art-themed birthday party, where they would be creating their own books. The kraft cover is great for drawing on and decorating, too.

Crayola Twistables Crayons, 8ct

And a set of Twistables for them to use in their sketchbooks.

Mudpuppy Bengal Tiger 48-Piece Mini Puzzle

When my younger son turned 1 last year, I got a bunch of these mini tiger puzzles from Mudpuppy to go with the party’s tiger theme — the Chinese zodiac sign of the year he was born.

Dancing Bear Break Your Own Geodes

I love this idea from Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio, who gave out these break-your-own Moroccan geodes for one of her daughters’ birthdays last year. While they require the use of a hammer, they look pretty and are easy to break open, says Trolio. They were a smash hit (pun intended).

Ring Pop Variety Party Pack - 20 Count

Trolio paired the geodes with (edible) jewels — a.k.a. Ring Pops.

efrutti Mini Burger Gummy Candy - 60 Pieces

Novelty candy, as long as you don’t give out too many so that other parents resent you for the impending sugar rush, is another fun favor that I usually include. I love these gummy burgers so much that I had a hard time holding myself back from eating them before finishing the gift bags.

Laughing Smith 12-Pack Whoopee Cushion Set

A couple of Strategist parents have given out whoopee cushions as well for a tootin’ good time.

Birthday Party Mad Libs

Here’s another silly activity book for older kids that Yang used as a stocking stuffer and says would work equally well in a goodie bag. “Perfect for potty-humored second-graders,” she says.

Rainbow Scratch Paper Arts Notebooks - 24 Pack

Rainbow scratch pads are another interactive favor with a lot of uses.

Crayola Sidewalk Chalk Special Effects Set - 6 Pack

If it’s an outdoor party, sidewalk chalk could be another fun favor idea.

MiniWorldFood Felt Banana

And finally, for a smaller party, check out these felt bananas that Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo recently gave out at her son’s banana-themed 1-year-old birthday party. My kids were delighted to receive them — especially because the banana comes out of its peel.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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COMMENTS

  1. 13 Best India Travel Guide Books 2024

    5. Having the right travel guide books India is essential for the best adventures in Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir. Bradt Travel Guide Ladakh, Jammu & the Kashmir Valley can be your best option. Though Ladakh is becoming a more popular destination for its epic Himalayan beauty, some other areas are still off the beaten path, like Kashmir Valley ...

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  3. Complete guide to India

    Explore India holidays and discover the best time and places to visit. India's best sights and local secrets from travel experts you can trust. ... Book popular activities in India. Guidebooks Purchase our award-winning guidebooks. Get to the heart of India with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and ...

  4. Discover India (Travel Guide) (Lonely... by Blasi, Abigail

    Paperback - January 27, 2016. Lonely Planet's Discover Indiais your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Wonder at the breathtaking Taj Mahal, bathe in the holy waters of Varansi, or take a houseboat cruise along Kerala's backwaters; all with your trusted travel ...

  5. Lonely Planet India 19 (Travel Guide)

    This is the 19th edition of Lonely Planet's travel guide to India, written by fifteen writers and published in April 2022. Like all Lonely Planet guides, this book is remarkably comprehensive. It covers all parts of the country. For each destination, it has sections on sightseeing, hotels, eating, and shopping.

  6. Insight Guides India

    Insight Guide to India is a pictorial travel guide in a magazine style providing answers to the key questions before or during your trip: deciding when to go to India, choosing what to see, from exploring Jaisalmer to discovering Kullu Valley or creating a travel plan to cover key places like the Taj Mahal, Kerala and Udaipur.This is an ideal travel guide for travellers seeking inspiration, in ...

  7. Lonely Planet India (Travel Guide)

    This is the 19th edition of Lonely Planet's travel guide to India, written by fifteen writers and published in April 2022. Like all Lonely Planet guides, this book is remarkably comprehensive. It covers all parts of the country. For each destination, it has sections on sightseeing, hotels, eating, and shopping.

  8. India Travel Book and Ebook

    Inside Lonely Planet's India Travel Guide:. Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020's COVID-19 outbreak Top experiences feature - a visually inspiring collection of India's best experiences and where to have them. What's new feature taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas

  9. Lonely Planet India (Travel Guide)

    #1 best-selling guide to India *. Lonely Planet India is your passport to all the most relevant and up-to-date advice on what to see, what to skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Admire the perfect symmetry of the Taj Mahal, ride a camel through the moonlit desert or cruise the lush backwaters of Kerala; all with your trusted travel companion.

  10. Top 10 Best Indian Travel Guide Books To Read in India

    4. Holy Cow - India Travel Book. Author - Sarah Macdonald. Holy Cow is among the best travel guide books for India. This book describes a rollercoaster ride through a land full of contradictions and chaos with a woman who is on a mission for her soul, her love life, and her sanity. Sarah MacDonald, an ABC journalist, spent two years on the ...

  11. 10 Best Indian Travel Books to Read in 2024

    Amazon Ratings. Amazon Price. Essential India Travel Guide by Mohan Kapoor. 3.5 stars. Rs 1,240. The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India by Mohan Pandey. 4.5 stars. Rs 945. Culture Smart India: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture by Berry Stephen.

  12. 7 Books To Read Before Travelling India (#3 and ...

    DK Eyewitness India (Travel Guide) is a must-read travel guide by DK Publishing with detailed instructions about top travel attractions in India. There are many historical and religious architects or landmarks in India. This guide is also full of many photographs and maps which is much helpful while visiting the specific destination.

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  14. Best India Travel Guide Books: Planning a trip to India

    Lonely Planet: South India and Kerala. Lonely Planet: Goa and Mumbai. These include the option of a pdf travel guide or e-book too, so be sure to have a look! India is a big country, which means there's a ton to cover. The Lonely Planet India book is over 1,000 pages which means it's pretty bulky. Having the travel guide in pdf form on your ...

  15. India travel guides, reading recommendations

    Travel Guides to India. Buy travel guides from Daunt Books to Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kashmir, Kerala, Mumbai, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, from publishers including Lonely Planet, Rough Guides and Wallpaper. Daunt Books for Travellers, Independent Booksellers

  16. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: India

    DK Eyewitness India (Travel Guide) $30.00. (114) In Stock. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: India will lead you straight to the best attractions the country has to offer, with regional coverage stretching from the Great Himalayas of the north to the tropical peninsula of the south. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: India explores the culture, history, and ...

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    Online shopping for Books from a great selection of Travel & Holiday Guides, Travel Writing, Specialty Travel, Food, Lodging & Transportation, Illustrated Books & more at everyday low prices. ... India The Journey - A Travel Book on India 4.2 out of 5 stars 210. Quick look ...

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  19. India Travel Guide

    This is normal. Switching to bland food like rice, toast, and bananas for a few days should do the trick. Here's some reading on Breathedreamgo about the food in India: 20 famous foods of India (with recipes) Guide to the famous foods of Delhi. Unique guide to Mumbai street food.

  20. India Travel Guide

    Guidebooks. Our worldwide travel correspondents bring you the best and most up-to-date coverage of over 7,500 global destinations. Get information on India Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your ...

  21. 10 best India travel books ~ Shalu Sharma's Blog

    India (Lonely Planet Travel Guides): This is a very popular and a must guide if you are planning a trip to India for the first time. The book contains traveler maps, guide to places to stay and eat for all budgets, great health information for travelling to India, history, about the use of transportation in India and even has a section on India ...

  22. The 45 Must-Read Books of Spring 2024

    On the heels of a blockbuster exhibition at the Frick Collection, a new set of fans have discovered the work of the late, great painter Barkley L. Hendricks. In this 300-page new book, Hendricks's ...

  23. Lonely Planet South India & Kerala 10 (Travel Guide)

    Lonely Planet: The world's number one travel guide publisher* Lonely Planet's South India & Kerala is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Float along Kerala's backwaters as the sun sinks behind whispering palms, hit the beach in Goa and watch incense-clouded evening processions around Madurai's joyful Meenakshi ...

  24. The travel checklist you need for a senior travelling with you

    Purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations is a must. Be transparent with the medical history during the process to avoid any issues. A list of essentials . Documents - Apart from the aforementioned medical documents, ensure they are carrying identity and travel documents.

  25. Best Party Favors for Kids' Birthday Parties 2024

    Our writer rounded up the best, non-plastic, non-junky party favors for kids' birthday parties, including sticker books, coloring books, sketchbooks, novelty candy, geodes, whoopee cushions, and ...

  26. Northeast India 2 (Lonely Planet Northeast India)

    Best Sellers Rank: #2,124,698 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #833 in General India Travel Guides; Customer Reviews: 3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars 16 ratings. Brief content visible, double tap to read full content. ... Joe Bindloss has been writing travel books for more than a decade, roaming across India, Nepal, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe and ...

  27. CURAÇAO TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Unveil the Caribbean Paradise with full

    Embark on a journey to a paradise unlike any other with "Curaçao Travel Guide 2024: Unveil the Caribbean Paradise" by Michelle R. Mars.Imagine yourself strolling along sun-kissed beaches, immersing in vibrant culture, and uncovering hidden gems in this tropical oasis.