Top Cities & Places to Visit in Union Territory (UT) Photos of Union Territory (UT)

Union Territory (UT)

India • UT

🏆 Ranked #9 among top destinations

“Small Regions, Big Experiences”

Overview

India’s Union Territories represent the nation’s most diverse and distinctive regions, each governed directly by the central government. From the scenic beauty of Ladakh and the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the heritage-rich streets of Delhi and Puducherry,...

Gallery

Documents and Money

Passport and Visa

Essential for entry into India; ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Carry several photocopies and digital copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance.

Identification

Carry a secondary ID like a driver's license.

Money

Carry a mix of Indian Rupees cash (essential for small purchases and local markets) and credit/debit cards. ATMs are widely available in cities. A money belt or anti-theft bag is recommended for security.

When to Visit

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep: The best time is during the winter season, from October to May. This period offers pleasant weather, calm seas, and is ideal for water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rain and rough seas, which can disrupt travel and activities.

Delhi, Chandigarh, Puducherry, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu: The most comfortable time to visit these locations is during the winter months (October to March/November to March).

Delhi & Chandigarh: Winters are mild and sunny, perfect for sightseeing, though mornings can be foggy in December and January. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C, and best avoided for outdoor activities.

Puducherry & Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu: The weather is pleasant during winter, with temperatures around 20°C–30°C. Summers are hot and humid, while monsoons bring significant rainfall.

Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh: Due to the mountainous terrain, the timing is crucial.

Ladakh: The best and most accessible time to visit is from May to September, when the snow melts and mountain passes open for road travel. Winters (post-October) are extremely cold and the region becomes largely inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

Jammu & Kashmir: The region is beautiful in summer for its blooming valleys and pleasant weather. Winter (December to March) is ideal for those seeking snowfall and winter sports like skiing.

Location Map

FAQs

Foreign nationals must have a valid passport and a pre-obtained Indian visa to enter India and its Union Territories. The visa is available online as an e-Tourist Visa for most. For certain sensitive regions like parts of Ladakh or the Nicobar Islands, special Protected Area Permits (PAPs) or Restricted Area Permits (RAPs) might be required, although many key tourist islands no longer need a separate permit for general visits.

Indian citizens do not need a passport for domestic travel to any Union Territory, but a government-issued photo ID is necessary. An entry permit is mandatory for all visitors (including Indians) to Lakshadweep Islands.

The ideal time to visit largely depends on the specific Union Territory (UT):

Northern UTs (Delhi, Chandigarh): October to March offers the most pleasant, cool weather for sightseeing. Summers are extremely hot.
Himalayan UTs (Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir): May to September is best for Ladakh due to accessible roads and pleasant weather. Winter is ideal for snow sports enthusiasts.
Island UTs (Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep): October to May is the peak season with calm seas ideal for water activities. The monsoon season has heavy rain.

While no mandatory vaccinations are universally required (except a Yellow Fever certificate if arriving from an endemic country), health professionals recommend being up to date on vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Diphtheria, and Tetanus. Always:

Drink only sealed bottled or filtered water.
Avoid ice and raw, unpeeled fruits or salads washed in local water.
Use a strong insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria.

Yes, the official currency across all of India, including its Union Territories, is the Indian Rupee (INR). Cash is frequently used in local markets, small shops, and for auto-rickshaws, so carrying sufficient small-denomination cash is advisable. ATMs are available in urban areas, but their reliability might be limited in remote islands or high-altitude regions. Major hotels and large restaurants usually accept credit cards.

Dress Modestly: This is key, especially when visiting religious sites. Covering your shoulders and knees is respectful and recommended to avoid unwanted attention in most areas.
Respectful Interaction: Remove your shoes before entering temples, mosques, or homes. Greet people with "Namaste" (palms together). Avoid public displays of affection.
Safety: While generally safe, be vigilant in crowded places, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and pre-book transport through reputable providers. Photography of indigenous tribes in reserved areas is strictly prohibited and a punishable offense.

drgergsd

ertetwetw

Logistics and Practicalities

Connectivity: While major cities like Delhi have good internet connectivity, it can be limited and slow in rural or remote regions like Ladakh and the islands. Consider getting a local prepaid SIM card with a data plan for easier navigation and communication.
Cash is King in Remote Areas: ATMs are widely available in cities, but smaller vendors, local transport (auto-rickshaws), and shops in remote islands or high-altitude areas often only accept cash. Carry sufficient cash when venturing outside major towns.
Self-drive is not recommended for foreign tourists due to the chaotic traffic conditions. It's better to hire a driver or use public transport/app-based taxis in cities.
Train travel is extensive but requires booking several weeks in advance, especially for popular routes and higher classes.
Bargaining: In local markets and for non-metered auto-rickshaws/taxis, bargaining is a common practice. Shopkeepers often quote higher prices to foreigners, so don't be shy to negotiate with a smile to get a fair price.
Different Prices for Tourists: At many tourist attractions and monuments, foreigners have a much higher entry fee compared to local Indian tourists.