India Travel Guide — Currency, Costs & Culture (2026)
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR), symbol: ₹. Capital city: New Delhi. Region: South Asia. Primary language: Hindi, English + 21 official languages.
Government & practicalities: Head of state: Droupadi Murmu (President). Government type: Federal Parliamentary Constitutional Republic. International calling code: +91. Drives on the Left. Power outlets: Type C/D/M, 230V. Internet domain: .in.
What $100 USD typically buys in India
🍛 104 thali meals at a local restaurant
☕ 416 cups of masala chai from street stalls
🚌 277 local bus or auto-rickshaw rides
🥘 139 portions of samosas or pakoras
🏰 14 entries to major monuments (foreigner rate)
Daily travel budgets in India
Budget travelers: ₹1,500–2,500/day (guesthouses, street food, local transport). Mid-range travelers: ₹4,000–8,000/day (mid hotels, restaurants, AC transport). Luxury travelers: ₹15,000+/day (heritage hotels, fine dining, private car).
Typical local prices in INR
Street chai: ₹10–20
Thali meal: ₹80–200
Beer: ₹120–200
Auto-rickshaw short ride: ₹30–80
Taj Mahal entry (foreigner): ₹1,100
Budget guesthouse/night: ₹500–1,200
Mid hotel/night: ₹2,000–6,000
Cultural tips for visitors to India
🙏 Namaste (hands pressed together, slight bow) is the traditional greeting — always welcome.
👟 Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and many homes.
🤚 The left hand is considered impure — use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving.
🐄 Cows are sacred in Hinduism — treat them with respect even in traffic.
👗 Dress modestly when visiting religious sites — cover shoulders and knees.
Tipping customs in India
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants: 10% if service charge not included. For drivers and guides: ₹100–200/day. At hotels: ₹50–100 for porters. Rounding up is always welcome.
Useful phrases in Hindi, English + 21 official languages
Namaste (Nah-mah-stay) — Hello / I bow to you (respectful greeting)
Dhanyavaad (Dhan-ya-vahd) — Thank you (formal Hindi)
Kitne ka hai? (Kit-nay kah hai) — How much is this? (Hindi)
Theek hai (Tik hai) — OK / That's fine
Mujhe _____ chahiye (Moo-jhay _____ chah-hee-yay) — I want / need _____
Traditional foods to try in India
Butter chicken
Biryani
Masala dosa
Chole bhature
Pani puri (street snack)
Gulab jamun (dessert)
Lassi (yogurt drink)
Dal makhani
Major landmarks and attractions in India
Taj Mahal (Agra)
Jaipur Pink City
Varanasi Ghats
Kerala Backwaters
Hampi Ruins (Karnataka)
Khajuraho Temples
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
Taj Mahal (Agra, Uttar Pradesh)
Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra)
Ellora Caves (Maharashtra)
Qutb Minar and its Monuments (Delhi)
Khajuraho Group of Monuments (Madhya Pradesh)
Hampi (Karnataka)
Safety information for India
India is generally safe for tourists. Be alert to petty scams at major tourist sites. Avoid drinking tap water — stick to sealed bottles. Women traveling solo should take standard precautions. Emergency: 112.
Visa information for India
India requires a visa for most nationalities. The e-Visa (eTV) is available to citizens of 166+ countries — apply online at least 4 days before arrival for tourism (fees vary by nationality, typically $25–80 USD). The e-Visa is valid for 60 days and allows double entry. Always verify current require
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by city, season, and travel style. Exchange rates and costs are for informational purposes only. Always verify visa requirements and safety conditions with official sources before travel. Information current as of 2026.