Even though there has been a spurt in digital books and apps for wannabe travelers, the truth is that there are a lot of people who still swear by the traditional method of carrying paperback volumes. So, there are many who would rather leaf through pages of a heavy book than peer into the screen of their smartphones and tablets. India being a diverse and huge country that it is requires a tourist to be armed with some good guidebooks. A smart guidebook can help you to get the best experience and also to choose the destination carefully.
So, here are the 5 best travel guidebooks for those traveling in India:
Lonely Planet India: Without a doubt, the most popular travel guide book for India is Lonely Planet India. This is a voluminous copy which comes at a price of nearly Rs 1300. However, apart from its glossy cover pic and some helpful illustrations within, the book is a heady encyclopedia for someone traveling to any destination in the country! Description about each state and its major attractions and landmarks is penned aptly. Info about hotels, services and women safety are also offered.
DK Eyewitness Travel India: This travel book is your best bet if your priority is beautiful photographic illustrations. Though, the written information is not as complete as you get in Lonely Planet, visually this one is a treat. It is priced at around Rs 700.
The Rough Guide to India: This one of really good especially for backpackers and foreign tourists who intend to have a long journey and wish to leaf through all the major landmarks. Content-wise, this guide book is spectacular and it is complemented with helpful maps and some soothing pictures. There are interesting trivia and info which do full justice to the top Indian landmarks, making them a compelling must-visit for you. The book is priced at Rs 742.
India Footprint Handbook: This book is a kaleidoscope of the whole country, and offers ample information surrounding India’s culture, history, geography and landmarks. The book also throws light on landmarks and destinations which are less trodden but deserve your footfalls. The information is precise and the cover pic of a rural woman walking down the hallway of a monument may leave you with a few musings. Priced at Rs 1527, it appears a tad pricey at first sight. But with the treasure trove of information and anecdotes it houses, the money you pay for it will be worth it.
Frommer’s India: This is another popular guidebook which is more suited to the business/leisure traveler than to the budget tourist. The book deals with the luxury side of an Indian holiday. So, there is something enticing at almost each leaf of the book. Admittedly, the maps are not very friendly and a budget traveler may not get much out of this thick book. But for the luxury lovers, it will be well worth the Rs 999 you shell out for this.
