The Indian Sub-Continent has always been popular with backpackers because there's plenty to see, and travelling around the country is cheap. Just a few of the reasons to travel to India include: to enjoy yourself; to experience different cultures; to feel a sense of independence.

You can travel in the country for the 6 months that most tourist visas permit, yet still feel like you only saw a tiny part of the country and its cultures. In fact, India is so huge that you could spend years there and still not see half of it. There are Himalayan valleys, Hindu temples, Rajasthani palaces and forts, and tropical beaches

Though prices are rising and tourism there is aimed more and more towards the middle classes, it's possible to stay in a bamboo hut on a beach for 100 Indian Rupees a night. Food is also very affordable and it's possible to eat in India for a couple of Dollars per day. However, Prices increase at restaurants that cater for backpackers and western food is nearly always more expensive than Indian food.

India is used to backpackers and although travelling around takes time, it is easy enough to travel around. It's relatively safe too, so long as you use some sense and show respect for the locals. The majority of travelers in India travel on a route that has been used by thousands and thousands of other travelers before them, and you'll come across lots of services tailored specially towards backpackers.

Local travel agents can easily be found on popular routes and are useful for arranging flights, visas and day trips. Sleeper trains and overnight buses are ideal for backpackers and offer an inexpensive way to cover moderate distances. Long in-country distances can be covered by using domestic flights, which are generally low-cost, dependable and are bookable on the day.

Backpacking there is never boring and you'll constantly have something to phone to your friends and family about, particularly if you leave the backpacker ghettos behind and explore India away from the most popular destinations. Then you'll feel more like a traveller and less like a tourist.