Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to India (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip is a crucial step when considering a move to India. It allows you to immerse yourself in the culture, explore different regions, and make informed decisions about where you might want to live. By experiencing the country firsthand, you can better understand the lifestyle, cost of living, and unique characteristics of each location.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Delhi to explore the nation's capital, then head to the tech hub of Bengaluru, followed by the cultural richness of Jaipur, and finally relax in the coastal city of Goa. For a 20-day trip, extend your journey to include Pune for its educational and IT opportunities, the scenic beauty of the Kerala region, focusing on Kochi and Trivandrum, and end with the spiritual and historical sites of Varanasi and Agra.

Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 16 million. It offers a blend of historic sites and modern amenities. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the city's connectivity, numerous job opportunities, and vibrant cultural scene. The is moderate, with a variety of housing options available.

Travel Tip: Visit the iconic Red Fort, a historic fortress that serves as a reminder of the Mughal era.

Bengaluru

Bengaluru, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is a major tech hub with a population of over 8 million. Its pleasant climate, green spaces, and thriving IT industry make it a popular choice for expats. The city offers a high standard of living at a relatively low cost.

Travel Tip: Dine at The Only Place, a popular restaurant known for its continental cuisine and relaxed atmosphere.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is renowned for its palaces, forts, and vibrant markets. With a population of over 3 million, it provides a rich cultural experience. The city is affordable and offers a unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles.

Travel Tip: Explore the Amber Fort, a magnificent hilltop fortress with stunning views of the city.

Goa

Goa is famous for its beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and Portuguese-influenced architecture. It's ideal for those seeking a relaxed coastal life. The cost of living is reasonable, and the state offers a mix of bustling cities and serene villages. Popular areas include Panaji, Margao, and Mapusa.

Travel Tip: Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Baroque architecture.

Pune

Pune, located near Mumbai, is an educational and IT hub with a population of over 3 million. It offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and numerous job opportunities. The cost of living is moderate, making it an attractive option for expats.

Travel Tip: Visit the Aga Khan Palace, a historic building that played a significant role in India's freedom struggle.

Kerala (Kochi and Trivandrum)

Kerala is renowned for its natural beauty, with lush landscapes, backwaters, and beaches. Kochi and Trivandrum are popular cities offering a relaxed pace of life and a rich cultural heritage. The cost of living is affordable, and the region provides excellent healthcare and educational facilities.

Travel Tip: In Kochi, explore the historic district of Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant art scene.

Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural center. With a population of over 1 million, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern amenities. The cost of living is low, making it an affordable option for expats.

Travel Tip: Take a boat ride on the Ganges River to experience the city's spiritual rituals and stunning sunsets.

Agra

Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, is a historical city with a rich architectural heritage. It offers a slower pace of life compared to major metropolitan areas. The cost of living is low, and the city provides a unique cultural experience.

Travel Tip: Visit the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, known for its stunning architecture and romantic history.