India is a land of fascinating contrasts. Imagine snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas in the north, golden deserts of Rajasthan in the west, tropical beaches in the south, and bustling megacities sprinkled throughout. With such incredible diversity, travellers often find themselves asking: “What’s the best way to get around India?”
It depends on your budget, time, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. From flights and trains to buses, metros, rickshaws, and even traditional ferries, India offers a transport network as colourful as the country itself. This guide will take you through all major modes of transportation in India, sharing insights, practical tips, and first-hand experience so you can travel confidently.
Air Travel in India: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
For long distances, nothing beats the convenience of air travel. India has over 100 operational airports, with international hubs in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
Domestic Airlines
- IndiGo – Reliable, affordable, punctual.
- Air India – Full-service carrier, often includes meals and baggage.
- Vistara – Premium service with excellent onboard comfort.
- Akasa Air – New budget-friendly entrant.
- SpiceJet – Affordable but basic.
Budget Tips
- Book early, especially during festivals and holidays.
- Use apps like MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, or ixigo to compare fares.
- Sometimes, flights on popular routes (Delhi–Goa or Mumbai–Jaipur) are cheaper than trains if booked 2–3 months in advance.
Best For: Covering distances over 500 km quickly, e.g., Delhi to Kerala or Mumbai to Assam.
Traveller Insight: Domestic flights in India are improving rapidly. Security is tight, flights are punctual, and airports are modern. But do account for extra time in big cities where traffic to airports can take longer than expected.
Indian Railways: The Heart and Soul of Travel in India
No journey through India feels complete without a train ride. With a network covering more than 67,000 km, Indian Railways is the fourth-largest in the world. It’s affordable, cultural, and often the highlight of a trip.
Types of Trains
- Sleeper Class – For budget travellers, authentic local vibe.
- AC Classes (1A, 2A, 3A) – Comfortable, air-conditioned berths.
- Chair Cars (CC/EC) – Day journeys, especially on express trains.
- Luxury Trains – Maharajas’ Express and Palace on Wheels offer five-star experiences.
Scenic Routes to Try
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – A UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge railway.
- Konkan Railway (Mumbai–Goa) – Sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and lush landscapes.
- Kashmir Valley Railway – Snow-capped mountain views.
Booking Tickets
- Use the official IRCTC website or mobile app.
- Book early for popular routes (Delhi–Agra, Delhi–Varanasi, etc.).
- Foreign travellers can use agents or third-party apps for convenience.
Best For: Affordable long-distance travel, meeting locals, and seeing Indian landscapes.
Traveller Insight: Trains can be delayed, but they’re unforgettable. Chatting with fellow passengers, sharing meals, and watching the countryside roll by makes train travel uniquely Indian.
Road Travel in India: Buses, Taxis, and Private Car with Driver
India’s vast road network connects the tiniest villages to bustling megacities, making road travel one of the most flexible and rewarding ways to explore the country. If you love spontaneity and the freedom to stop wherever you like, hitting the road is an excellent choice.
Buses in India
- State-run buses – Affordable and basic, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
- Private luxury buses – Offer AC, sleeper coaches, charging points, and even Wi-Fi on select routes.
- Booking Made Easy – Apps like RedBus and AbhiBus make it simple to compare schedules and fares.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
Offering safe and convenient short rides. For longer journeys, however, the best choice is to hire a private car with driver in India.
With private car with driver, travellers can enjoy safe, comfortable, and fully customisable road trips across India. From Golden Triangle tours (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) to Rajasthan expeditions and outstation trips, our experienced English-speaking drivers ensure you travel at your own pace while discovering hidden gems along the way.
Vehicles Available with India Driver Tours
India Driver Tours offers a wide range of vehicles to suit every kind of traveller – from solo adventurers to large groups. All cars are clean, comfortable, and driven by professional English-speaking drivers
| Vehicle Type | Best For | Price Range (Per K.M.) |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan (Dzire, Etios) | Couples, solo travellers, small families (up to 3 pax) | ₹15 – ₹17 |
| SUV (Innova, Crysta) | Small groups, families with extra luggage (up to 5 pax) | ₹19 – ₹22 |
| Tempo Traveller (Urbania) | Medium-sized groups, corporate or family trips (up to 12 pax) | ₹30 – ₹35 |
| Mini Bus / Coach | Large groups, educational tours, events (20–35 pax) | ₹45 – ₹55 |
Why choose a private driver?
- Stress-free travel – no need to navigate chaotic traffic.
- Flexibility to stop for sightseeing, food, or photos.
- Affordable compared to Western countries.
- 24/7 support and itinerary customisation.
Traveller Insight: Driving in India is an experience in itself. For peace of mind, letting a professional driver handle the roads while you focus on the journey is often the best decision — and in India, it’s surprisingly affordable.
Metro Systems in India: Modern, Fast, and Reliable
Metros have revolutionised urban travel in India. They’re clean, punctual, and budget-friendly.
- Delhi Metro – One of Asia’s most advanced networks.
- Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow, Jaipur, Kochi – Expanding networks.
- Tickets cost ₹10–₹60 (approx. £0.10–£0.60).
Best For: Beating city traffic and saving time.
Traveller Insight: Metros are safe, air-conditioned, and a welcome break from chaotic traffic. Women-only coaches in Delhi Metro add a layer of safety.
Auto-Rickshaws & Cycle-Rickshaws: The Quintessential Indian Ride
No India trip is complete without an auto-rickshaw ride.
- Auto-Rickshaws – Found in every city. Always ask for a meter or negotiate before the ride.
- Cycle-Rickshaws – Best for short distances in small towns and markets (Varanasi, Old Delhi).
Best For: Short, cheap rides and authentic experiences.
Traveller Insight: Rickshaws are often cheaper than taxis, but tourists may be overcharged. Use ride-hailing apps (Ola Auto, Rapido) where possible.
Two-Wheelers and Bicycles: Adventure and Freedom
For independent travellers, scooters and bikes provide freedom.
- Where to Rent – Goa, Pondicherry, Rishikesh, Ladakh.
- Popular Choice – Royal Enfield for road trips, scooters for beach towns.
- Always wear a helmet and carry ID proof.
Best For: Young travellers, backpackers, and adventure seekers.
Traveller Insight: Road trips in Ladakh or coastal Goa on a bike are among the most liberating experiences you can have in India.
Ferries and Boats: Exploring India’s Waterways
Though less common, water transport offers unique journeys.
- Kerala Backwaters – Traditional houseboats in Alleppey and Kumarakom.
- Andaman Islands – Ferries between Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil.
- Goa – River cruises on Mandovi.
Best For: Scenic travel and slow-paced exploration.
Traveller Insight: A houseboat stay in Kerala is one of India’s most romantic travel experiences.
Practical Travel Tips for Getting Around India
- Plan Ahead: During October–March (peak season), tickets sell out quickly.
- Use Apps: IRCTC (trains), RedBus (buses), MakeMyTrip (flights), Ola/Uber (cabs).
- Safety First: Keep valuables secure on trains/buses.
- Budget Wisely: India offers both luxury and budget options.
- Be Flexible: Delays happen, but that’s part of the adventure.
Final Thoughts: Travelling India Is a Journey in Itself
Getting around India is not just about reaching destinations it’s about embracing the experience. Whether you’re soaring above mountains on a flight, rolling past fields on a train, haggling for a rickshaw ride, or cruising the backwaters on a houseboat, every journey adds depth to your adventure.
With planning, flexibility, and an open heart, travelling around India can be as memorable as the sights you’re visiting.
Plan Your Trip to India
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