Why International Visitors Choose North India
North India is the most visited region in the country — and for good reason. In a single two-week circuit you can stand before the Taj Mahal at sunrise, trek to a 3,584-metre Himalayan shrine, attend a riverside fire ceremony on the Ganges, and walk through a 16th-century Mughal fort. No other region on earth packs this density of world-class experiences.
Junegiri Yatra is based in Haridwar — the gateway to the Himalayan shrines of Uttarakhand. We have been operating North India and Himalayan tours since 2017. This guide is based on thousands of conversations with international visitors who came to us not knowing where to start.
India e-Visa — How to Apply
Most nationalities (165+ countries) are eligible for India's e-Visa, which is applied for entirely online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Processing takes 72–96 hours and costs USD 25–80 depending on your nationality and visa type. Apply at least 7 days before travel.
- e-Tourist Visa — valid for 30 days, 90 days, or 1 year (multiple entry). Best option for most visitors.
- e-Business Visa — if your trip has any business component.
- Upload: colour photo (white background), scanned passport bio page, return flight details, hotel booking proof.
- Nationalities requiring traditional visa on arrival or visa from embassy: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan — check before applying.
When to Visit North India
The ideal window for most North India destinations is October to March — cool, dry, and clear. Specific windows by activity:
- Golden Triangle (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur): October–March. Avoid April–June (extreme heat up to 45°C).
- Char Dham Yatra: May–June and September–October (temples closed November–April).
- Kedarkantha Trek: December–March for snow summit views.
- Valley of Flowers: July–August for peak wildflower bloom.
- Rishikesh rafting and yoga: September–June (suspended during monsoon).
Getting Around India — Transport Options
Domestic Flights
IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara connect all major cities. Delhi is the main hub. Book 4–6 weeks in advance for best fares. Delhi–Dehradun (gateway to Uttarakhand) is 45 minutes by air and costs ₹2,500–6,000.
Trains
India's rail network is extensive and scenic. Book on irctc.co.in — create an account (international cards accepted) and book 60–120 days ahead. First-class AC (1A) and two-tier AC (2A) are comfortable for overnight journeys. Delhi to Haridwar: Shatabdi Express (4.5 hours), multiple daily departures.
Private Vehicle with Driver
For Himalayan routes, a private vehicle with an experienced mountain driver is the safest and most flexible option. Our packages include this throughout — you set the pace, make spontaneous stops, and travel on your schedule.
Currency and Money
India's currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). As of 2026: 1 USD ≈ ₹83, 1 GBP ≈ ₹107, 1 EUR ≈ ₹90, 1 AUD ≈ ₹54.
- Exchange currency at authorised forex dealers or banks (avoid airport rates — they are 3–5% worse).
- ATMs are widely available in cities; less reliable in small mountain towns. Withdraw cash before entering remote areas.
- UPI payment (PhonePe, Google Pay) is now accepted at most tourist-facing businesses — ask your local guide to set it up on your Indian SIM.
- Major hotels and large restaurants accept international cards. Small dhabas and temple stalls are cash-only.
Health Preparation Before Arriving
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, Flu) recommended by CDC and NHS. Consult a travel health clinic 4–6 weeks before departure.
- Malaria: Risk is low in the Himalayan regions (Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh). Higher risk in some plains areas. Consult your doctor.
- Water: Drink only bottled water. Avoid ice in drinks outside 4-star hotels. Our packages always include mineral water on the road.
- Delhi Belly: Carry Loperamide (Imodium) and ORS sachets. Eat at busy, clean restaurants — high turnover means fresher food. Avoid raw vegetables and street food in the first few days until your stomach adjusts.
Cultural Etiquette for Temple Visits
- Remove shoes before entering any temple, mosque, gurudwara, or sacred site. Shoe storage is always available nearby.
- Dress modestly — covered shoulders and knees for all religious sites. Carry a light scarf or shawl.
- Photography inside temple sanctums is often restricted — look for signage or ask.
- Accept prasad (blessed food offering) with both hands or your right hand. It is considered rude to refuse.
- A small cash donation (₹51, ₹101, ₹501 — auspicious amounts) at temples is customary but never compulsory.
Recommended 14-Day North India Itinerary
This is our most popular international itinerary combining heritage, spirituality, and adventure:
- Days 1–2: Delhi (Old Delhi, India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar)
- Day 3: Delhi to Agra — Taj Mahal sunrise, Agra Fort
- Day 4: Agra to Jaipur — Fatehpur Sikri, Amber Fort
- Day 5: Jaipur (City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, bazaars)
- Day 6: Jaipur to Haridwar by flight or road
- Day 7: Haridwar Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh exploration
- Days 8–9: Rishikesh yoga, rafting, bungee jumping
- Days 10–12: Kedarnath Yatra (trek or helicopter)
- Days 13–14: Return to Haridwar, Delhi departure
WhatsApp us to customise this itinerary to your exact dates and interests.