India travel checklist
Power, visa, eSIM, packing rules, and weather in one fast page.
Currency
INR
Language
Hindi, English
Power
Plug types C, D, M, 230V / 50Hz.
Time zone
IST (UTC+5:30)
Power banks
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
India travel checklist overview
What this page covers
The India travel checklist highlights the key rules that affect most visitors: power standards, entry requirements, SIM options, carry-on rules, and weather expectations.
Who it helps
Use this checklist if you want a fast pre-flight scan before diving into the full tools. It is designed for first-time visitors and quick repeat trips.
Local context
Expect large distances, rail travel between cities, and a mix of modern metros and heritage districts.
Local essentials
What locals use
- Transit card: Delhi Metro card
- Main airports: DEL, BOM
- Emergency number: 112
- City climate notes: North India is hot and dry before monsoon; monsoon peaks July to September; southern coasts are humid year-round.
- Voltage differences: Voltage is consistent nationwide at 230V / 50Hz.
Local insight
India is vast, so plan by region and build in buffer days. Major cities have metro systems, while longer routes are best by rail or domestic flights. Expect crowds at popular sites and early opening hours at monuments. Summer heat can be intense in the north, so schedule sightseeing early. Dress modestly at temples and carry small cash for local vendors.
Entry essentials
đ Visa & entry
- eVisa required for most travelers
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Proof of onward travel may be requested
đ Power & charging
- Type C/D/M plugs, 230V power
- Most devices support 100-240V input
- Bring a universal adapter
đą eSIM & data
- 4G/5G coverage is strong in cities
- SIM registration requires passport
- Activate eSIM before arrival for instant data
đŗ Payments
- Cards accepted in hotels and malls
- UPI is common for local payments
- Carry cash for smaller shops
Getting around, safety, and best seasons
đ Transportation
- Railways connect major cities
- Domestic flights save time on long routes
- Ride-hailing apps are common
đĄī¸ Safety
- Emergency number is 112
- Keep valuables secured in crowds
- Use licensed transport at night
đ¤ī¸ Best seasons
- November to February is cooler
- March to May is warm and dry
- June to September is monsoon season
Planning checklist
India travel checklist tools to use
Power bank rules
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Open tool âVisa and entry snapshot
| Passport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | eVisa | Apply online before travel. |
| Japan | eVisa | Apply online before travel. |
| United Kingdom | eVisa | Apply online before travel. |
| Australia | eVisa | Apply online before travel. |
Best eSIM picks for India
Airalo
5GB for 30 days âĸ $13 âĸ 4G/5G
Nomad
10GB for 30 days âĸ $18 âĸ 4G/LTE
Weather and packing advice
Best weather months around Delhi:
- November: 28°C / 14°C, 10mm rain
- February: 25°C / 12°C, 15mm rain
- March: 30°C / 16°C, 10mm rain
FAQ
India requires an eVisa or visa for most travelers. Always verify for your passport.
India uses type C, D, and M plugs with 230V / 50Hz power.
Yes, but they must be carried in the cabin and stay within airline watt-hour limits.
Other destinations
Last updated: 2025-12-08. Always confirm critical rules with official sources.