INDIA - TRAVEL GUIDES

“India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend and the great grand mother of tradition.  Our most valuable and constructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only."
​- Mark Twain

TRAVELING TO INDIA

Few countries are as alluring and culturally different to Western travelers than India.  This is one of the most diverse places in the world, with ancient traditions and customs derived from at least nine different religions.  It is a soul-stirring place, with an unrivaled spirituality, dreadful poverty, glorious food, and just a very unique way of life.  Travel can be especially challenging, and patience is required.  Here are our recommendations for the best travel books on India.

A5 RECOMMENDATIONS

Lonely Planet: India

Our favorite travel guide for those traveling across India is Lonely Planet.  They have many years of experience publishing travel books in this region, and their local expertise sets them apart.  They in our opinion do a good job providing both insightful recommendations on how best to experience this unique culture and practical information on where to stay and how to get around.  Lonely Planet started out as a guide for backpackers, but now they cater to most budgets.

The Rough Guide to India

Our other recommendation for a travel guide for India is the Rough Guide series, especially for low-budget travelers looking to get the most out of their trip.  Their team of local experts have in-depth coverage on the more popular destinations like Delhi, Agra and the beaches of Goa and lesser-known regions, wildlife preserves, and more.  This is a solid guidebook for someone planning a longer trip around this amazing and sometimes intimidating country. 

City of Djinns, by William Dalrymple

Those interested in life in India will like City of Djinns, a very funny and informative book by highly acclaimed travel writer William Dalrymple recounting his time living in Delhi with his wife.  Dalrymple is an extremely curious and talented writer who introduces the reader to a remarkable and diverse cast of characters, and to the wonder of living in such a extraordinarily different culture.  Click here to learn more about City of Djinns.

The Age of Kali, by William Dalrymple

For those interested in a deeper look at India’s history and diverse culture, we recommend another book by William Dalrymple.  The Age of Kali is a collection of essays that stem from his extensive travels in this area of the world.  His affection for India is contagious, but he doesn’t back away from covering many controversial subjects in the book such as child marriage, caste massacres, and Sati, a Hindu tradition when a wife commits suicide after her husband’s death.  There are a number of interesting interviews and a lot of supporting history.  Click here to read our review of The Age of Kali.

Shantaram, by Gregory David Roberts

Shantaram is an epic fictional novel about an Australian heroin addict, generally based off the life experience of the author Gregory David Roberts.  The story is narrated by the protagonist Lin who escapes from prison and flees to the slums of Bombay.  Lin survives by establishing a medical clinic but then gets swept up into the dangerous world of the local mafia.  All in all, the book provides a fascinating window into the human spirit and into one of the world’s most vibrant and tumultuous cities.  Click here to learn more about Shantaram.