Planning your first 3-week trip to India

Focus on the Golden Triangle and Rajasthan to manage travel fatigue while seeing India's most iconic sites. Limit your itinerary to four or five major hubs to avoid spending your entire trip on trains or in airports.

1. Limit your geography. Don't try to see the whole country. Stick to the Northern circuit (Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan) or the South (Kerala and Tamil Nadu). A first-time 3-week trip should cover one region thoroughly rather than attempting a cross-country sprint.
2. Book internal transport early. Use the IRCTC website or the 'Ixigo' app to book train tickets at least 30 days in advance. For long distances like Jaisalmer to Delhi, book a domestic flight to save 15+ hours of travel time.
3. Build in 'buffer days'. India is sensory-heavy. Schedule a 'do-nothing' day every 4 days to handle laundry, rest, and process the intensity of the travel.
4. Pre-arrange your first arrival. Book a car pick-up through your first accommodation. Navigating a major Indian airport taxi queue after a long-haul flight is overwhelming for first-timers.

Is it safe for a first-time traveler?

Yes, if you follow standard travel precautions. Stick to bottled water, use reputable transport, and dress modestly.

Should I tip?

Tipping is appreciated in tourist areas. 10% in restaurants and small tips for luggage handlers or drivers are standard.