India has the world's second largest population and covers more than 3 million square km (1,158,307 square miles). Travelers are drawn by the country's numerous ancient and modern temples and shrines and its great cultural, socioeconomic and geographic diversity. Influencing cultures include the British (dating to colonial times) and the varied traditions of neighboring Asian peoples.
In recent years the economy, lead by the government of India, has been expanding dramatically. Traditional India manufacturing remains strong but due in part to a major commitment to boost the technology sectors and favorable cost factors, India is emerging as a leader in software development, computer programming and support. The reduction in international telephone costs, an educated (India has a strong university program), English-speaking workforce, and positive economic factors have meant that increasingly American and international companies are outsourcing call centers, customer service, order-process centers and other service related industries.
Visitors will find extreme poverty juxtaposed with moderate wealth. India is welcoming to tourists and business travelers but it can be challenging outside the established hotels and tourist areas.
India's climate is notoriously hot and humid, and severe monsoon rains frequently bring floods, but also relief from the heat.
India shares a border to the northwest with Pakistan, to the north with China, Nepal and Bhutan, and to the east with Bangladesh and Myanmar (Burma). To the west lies the Arabian Sea, to the east the Bay of Bengal and to the south the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka lies off the southeast coast, and the Maldives off the southwest coast.
India's big cities (Bangalore, Mumbai—formerly Bombay, Chennai, New Delhi, Prune, Calcutta, etc) come alive with music, concerts, plays, parties and exhibitions in the spring. Among the most spectacular mountain resorts are Shimla (once the Imperial summer capital), Mussoorie, Ranikhet and Nainital (within reach of Delhi) and West Bengal's magnificent resort, Darjeeling, which offers a breathtaking view of the whole Kanchenjunga mountain range.
Scant Western-style nightlife is available, although in major cities a few shows, clubs and discos are being developed. In most places the main attractions are cultural shows featuring performances of Indian dance and music. The country loves movies, particularly movies made in India. The Indian film industry is the largest in the world, now producing three times as many full-length feature films as the U.S.
Major credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and restaurants, but they are not universally accepted in India. ATM services are limited. Accommodations and meals are inexpensive.
English is widely used throughout the country.
There are several daily newspapers in India including India Times, and The Times of India.
The telephone system is reliable, and international direct dialing is available at most hotels, airports and post offices. Postal services also are reliable, but expect delivery to North America to take up to two weeks. International package delivery services are available in the larger cities.
Taxis are widely available in large cities. India maintains the largest rail system in Asia and the second largest in the world. There also several domestic air carriers including Air Express India and Air India that provide international air service and connections to over 70 cities in India.
Tourists generally are not targeted by criminal elements. Travelers, however, should avoid unruly crowds and demonstrations, which frequently turn violent. Avoid travel to the India-Pakistani border due to the ongoing armed conflicts.
Local Etiquette Tips from our Partner Geobeats.com
Udayan explains some of the cultural norms of India to help you in better preparing for your trip.
Top Local Phrases from our Partner Geobeats.com
Do you know what namaste means in Hindi? You should if you are traveling to India.
Public Transportation Tips from our Partner Geobeats.com
Dyu shows various transportation options in Mumbai and makes the city less overwhelming.
The iJET Intelligence Center
Intelligence Officers at iJET are currently monitoring local conditions in India to provide a level of information that surpasses any available from other public sources, including the U.S. State Department. Free from political constraints or concerns, our data provides vital, unfiltered information created specifically for travelers and businesses.
Travelers to India, those considering travel to India or those considering outsourcing business to India are strongly advised to purchase an Intelligence Brief for the most timely and concise information available on the country.
For only $7.50 you will receive the most complete intelligence available to the general public. Each Intelligence Brief contains data on 12 areas of concern for travelers and businesses (including Security and Health, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Cultural and Business information, Transportation, Communications/Technology, the Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language) plus you will receive a detailed map and real-time updates from the world's leading private intelligence gathering organization.
To purchase and immediately download the latest Intelligence Brief for the country Click Here