Public transport in India is cheap, extensive and, with a little preparation, very manageable for tourists. Trains link almost every city, big cities have modern metro systems, and cab apps work in most urban areas. The catch is that bookings, crowds and distances can overwhelm a first-time visitor. This guide explains each option the way our guides explain it to travellers on day one.
Trains: the backbone of travel in India
Indian Railways runs thousands of trains a day and is the most authentic way to cross the country. Long-distance trains have several classes, and the class you book changes the experience completely.
| Class | What it is | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 1A (First AC) | Lockable 2- or 4-berth cabins, bedding included | Overnight journeys in comfort |
| 2A (AC 2-tier) | Open berths with curtains, bedding included | The best value for most tourists |
| 3A (AC 3-tier) | Six berths per bay, air-conditioned | Budget travellers who still want AC |
| CC / EC (Chair Car / Executive Chair) | Reclining seats on fast day trains | Short hops such as Delhi–Agra or Delhi–Jaipur |
| SL (Sleeper) | Non-AC berths, very crowded | Only for experienced, adventurous travellers |
How to book Indian train tickets
Tickets are sold on the official IRCTC website and app. Foreign visitors can register with an international email address and phone number, although verification can be slow, so register well before your trip. Popular routes sell out weeks ahead, especially from October to March and around Diwali. Indian Railways also keeps a foreign tourist quota on many trains, which you can use with your passport.
Tips for your first train journey
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early. Platforms change, and the coach position is shown on electronic boards.
- Keep a printed or screenshot copy of your ticket plus your passport. Inspectors check both.
- Chain your bag to the berth on overnight trains and keep valuables in a small bag you sleep with.
- Drink sealed bottled water and buy food from the pantry car or official station stalls.
Metro: the easiest way around big cities
Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Jaipur, Kochi and several other cities have metro systems. They are clean, air-conditioned, signposted in English and very cheap. The Delhi Metro is the most useful for tourists. Its Airport Express Line connects the airport to central New Delhi, and other lines reach Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, Qutub Minar and Akshardham.
- Buy a token or a travel card at the station, or use a QR ticket from the official app.
- Bags go through a security scanner at every entrance, so allow a few extra minutes.
- The first coach in the direction of travel is usually reserved for women.
- Avoid 8–10 am and 5–8 pm on weekdays if you have luggage.
Buses: cheap, but best for short or overnight hops
State bus companies and private operators connect every town in India. For tourists, the comfortable choice is an air-conditioned Volvo or sleeper coach booked online through operators or apps such as redBus. Local city buses are very cheap but crowded, rarely show routes in English and are hard to use without help. Overnight sleeper buses are useful for routes without a good train, such as some hill stations in the Himalaya.
Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and e-rickshaws
The three-wheeled auto-rickshaw is the classic Indian city ride. It is perfect for short trips of a few kilometres. Many cities have meters, but drivers often prefer a fixed fare, so agree on the price before you get in. Cycle-rickshaws are the best way to explore narrow old-city lanes, such as a ride through Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. Battery e-rickshaws are now common around monuments and in smaller towns.
A good rule: if you are not sure what a fair fare is, open a cab app and check the price for the same trip before you negotiate.
Cab apps and prepaid taxis
Uber and Ola work in most large cities and give you a fixed price, a tracked route and no haggling. Rapido offers cheap bike and auto rides. At airports and big railway stations, use the official prepaid taxi counter rather than accepting offers in the arrivals hall. You pay at the booth and hand the slip to the driver at the end of the ride.
Domestic flights for long distances
India is huge. Delhi to Kochi is more than 2,500 km, so for long jumps a domestic flight saves a day or more. Airlines such as IndiGo and Air India connect all major cities, and fares are lowest when booked a few weeks ahead. On our Golden Triangle and Kerala tour, for example, a short Jaipur–Madurai flight links the north and the south in a few hours instead of two days on the road.
When a private car with driver is the better choice
Public transport is great in cities. Between cities, and especially in Rajasthan, the Himalaya and Kerala, many travellers find a private car with a driver far easier. You stop where you want, your luggage stays in the car, and you never have to find a station at 5 am. A driver also works as a local fixer who knows the roads, the dhabas and the best photo stops.
All our tours include air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers, from Innova Crysta cars for couples to Tempo Travellers and Volvo coaches for groups. You can see the fleet on our transport in India page.
Safety tips for using transport in India
- Share your live location with someone when you take a cab at night.
- Keep small notes (₹10–₹100) for rickshaws and tips, because drivers rarely have change.
- Ignore anyone at a station who says your train is cancelled and offers to rebook it. Check at the official counter or on the app.
- Allow extra time for everything. Traffic, fog in winter and monsoon rain can all cause delays.
Frequently asked questions
Is public transport in India safe for tourists?
Yes, for the most part. Metros, AC train classes and cab apps are used by millions of people every day. Use normal big-city care: watch your bags in crowds, use official taxis and avoid empty compartments late at night.
Can foreigners book Indian train tickets online?
Yes. Register on the official IRCTC website with an international phone number and email. You can also book through a travel agent or, on many trains, use the foreign tourist quota at major stations with your passport.
What is the best way to travel between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur?
Fast day trains are good for Delhi–Agra. For the full triangle, a private car with driver is the most flexible, because it lets you stop at places like Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri on the way.
Do I need cash for transport in India?
Carry some. Cab apps, trains and metros accept cards and UPI, but auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and small stalls often want cash.
Can India Travelix arrange transport only, without a full tour?
Yes. We arrange cars with drivers, airport transfers and coaches for groups. Tell us your route and dates on the quote form and we will reply within 24 hours.