Sport in India – A Destination Guide

students on brown field near fence

India has a rich and evolving sporting culture. Once perceived as a cricket-only nation, India has grown into a diverse multi-sport powerhouse, boasting passionate fan bases, world-class domestic leagues, and a new focus on Olympic success. From fast-paced T20 cricket and electrifying football matches to centuries-old traditional sports and emerging stars in athletics, India offers unforgettable experiences for sports travellers. The country’s love of sport is inseparable from its culture, and attending a game in India is as much about the atmosphere, music, chants, and local street food as it is about the action on the field.

🇮🇳 Key Information

Country: Republic of India
Capital: New Delhi
Currency: Indian Rupee (₹)
Official Languages: Hindi and English (plus 22 scheduled regional languages)
Population: ~1.4 billion
Time Zone: GMT +5:30

🏏 Cricket in India

Cricket is far more than a sport — it is woven into the fabric of Indian society. From bustling maidan grounds where children play street cricket to colossal stadiums filled with tens of thousands of cheering fans, cricket is part of the very fabric of Indian life. Matchdays are a sensory experience: the roar of the crowd, drums beating in unison, colourful flags waving, and the smell of street food drifting through the stands all combine to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

International Success

India’s men’s national team has a proud history on the world stage:

  • ICC ODI Cricket World Cup winners: 1983, 2011
  • ICC Men’s T20 World Cup winners: 2007, 2024

The women’s national team has steadily grown into a global powerhouse, reaching finals in major ODI and T20 tournaments and winning the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023. Cricket in India is not just about men’s matches; women’s cricket has rapidly gained visibility, drawing passionate crowds and inspiring the next generation.

Indian Premier League (IPL)

Launched in 2008, the IPL is the crown jewel of Indian domestic cricket. It combines international stars with India’s best talent and has transformed cricket into a year-round spectacle with matches often accompanied by music, cheerleaders, and fan competitions.

  • Viewership: In 2025, the IPL reached 857 million viewers across TV and OTT platforms.
  • Top Franchises: Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders
  • Matchday Atmosphere: Stadiums come alive with chants, drums, flags, and energetic fan zones, making each match a festival experience.

Women’s Premier League (WPL)

Launched in 2023, the WPL has quickly become one of the premier women’s cricket leagues globally. Featuring top Indian talent alongside international players, the league draws millions of fans online and in the stadiums, rapidly establishing a major sporting tradition.

  • Viewership: Over 130 million viewers in recent seasons
  • Cultural Impact: The WPL is inspiring a new generation of young female cricketers across India

⚽ Football in India

Football is India’s second-most played sport and has pockets of extremely passionate support in West Bengal, Kerala, Goa, and the Northeast. Unlike cricket, football fandom in India is often deeply localised, with club loyalties passed down through generations.

Indian Super League (ISL)

Founded in 2014, the ISL has revolutionised Indian football. It brought international signings, professional management, and modern stadium infrastructure, transforming football into a commercially viable sport.

  • The Kolkata Derby, between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC, is a historic rivalry that can fill the Salt Lake Stadium with over 60,000 fans, creating a pulsating, almost festival-like atmosphere.
  • The ISL now includes a promotion and relegation system with the I-League, improving competitiveness and giving smaller clubs a pathway to top-tier football.
  • Football matches in India feature vibrant fan chants, colourful banners, and coordinated supporter displays, making them unforgettable experiences for visitors.

🤼‍♂️ Kabaddi in India

Kabaddi, a traditional Indian contact sport, has seen a meteoric rise thanks to the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL).

  • PKL matches are broadcast nationwide, drawing around 350 million viewers, making kabaddi the second-most watched sport in India after cricket.
  • The game combines wrestling, tag, and strategy in a fast-paced indoor format, with energetic crowds that cheer for every tackle and raid.
  • India has dominated international competitions, winning almost every Asian Games gold and multiple World Cups.

🏑 Field Hockey

Hockey is India’s “national pride” sport, and despite a period of decline, the men’s team has seen a resurgence, winning back-to-back Olympic bronze medals in 2020 and 2024.

  • Odisha is the hub for Indian hockey, both commercially and organizationally, with stadiums like Kalinga Stadium (Bhubaneswar) and Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium (Rourkela) hosting major international tournaments.

🏆 Traditional & Local Sports

For visitors wanting to experience India’s grassroots sporting culture, traditional sports provide a window into the country’s history and everyday life:

  • Kushti: Traditional clay-pit wrestling, still popular in northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
  • Mallakhamba: An ancient gymnastic sport performed on a vertical wooden pole, combining acrobatics, strength, and agility.
  • Maidan Cricket: Observing cricket at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park or Azad Maidan offers a chaotic but captivating spectacle, with dozens of informal matches occurring simultaneously on Sunday mornings.

🌟 Other Notable Sports

  • Badminton: India has produced world-class stars like PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen.
  • Tennis: Popular in urban centres, with tournaments like the historic Chennai Open.
  • Motorsport: India hosts MotoGP races at Buddh International Circuit and previously hosted Formula 1 from 2011–2013.
  • Athletics: Interest has surged following Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold medal in javelin.

🏟️ Bucket-List Stadium Experiences

India is home to some of the world’s most iconic and atmospheric sporting venues. Each stadium offers a unique experience, from historic cricket battles to electrifying football rivalries. Here’s a more detailed look:

Cricket Stadiums

  • Eden Gardens, Kolkata – Often called the “Mecca of Indian cricket,” Eden Gardens has a capacity of over 66,000 and is famous for its passionate fans. Highlights include witnessing an IPL Kolkata Knight Riders match or international Test series. The crowd’s energy is unforgettable, especially during historic encounters like India vs. Pakistan matches.
  • Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai – Capacity: 33,000. Known for India’s dramatic 2011 Cricket World Cup final victory. Wankhede offers stunning city views, a buzzing atmosphere during IPL games, and proximity to Mumbai’s nightlife and street food scene.
  • Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad – The world’s largest cricket stadium (capacity: 132,000), hosting blockbuster IPL matches and international fixtures. Its massive size and state-of-the-art facilities make it a must-see for any cricket fan.
  • M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai – Historic stadium in the heart of Chennai, with a capacity of 50,000. Famous for its lively crowds during IPL and Test matches and for being one of the oldest cricket grounds in India.
  • Holkar Stadium, Indore – Emerging as one of India’s most picturesque cricket venues, surrounded by lush greenery and modern facilities.

For travellers who want more detail on seating, stadium history, nearby attractions, and tips for attending matches, check out our dedicated Cricket Grounds in India page.

Football Stadiums

  • Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata – One of the largest football stadiums in the world (capacity: 85,000), home to the Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. The crowd atmosphere, chants, and coordinated banners are legendary.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi – Hosts ISL matches and major football tournaments. The stadium’s modern design makes it a comfortable venue for international games.
  • Fatorda Stadium, Goa – Coastal venue with a vibrant local football culture, perfect for ISL matches.

Kabaddi & Hockey Venues

  • Patliputra Sports Complex, Patna – Hosts Pro Kabaddi League matches with energetic indoor crowds.
  • Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar – Hockey hub for India, hosting international tournaments, Asian Games events, and national championships.

Tips for Visiting Stadiums:

  • Book early for IPL finals, ISL marquee matches, and major Test series.
  • Arrive at least an hour early for security and pre-match fan zones.
  • Take local street snacks and enjoy the matchday atmosphere.

🗓️ Major Sporting Events to Plan Around

Timing your trip around India’s major sporting events ensures a rich experience of both sport and culture. Here’s a detailed guide:

Cricket

  • Indian Premier League (IPL): March–May
    • Fast-paced T20 cricket, featuring international stars and top domestic talent
    • Cities: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad
    • Tip: Tickets sell out rapidly; VIP and premium seats provide the best atmosphere
  • International Cricket Season: October–March
    • Includes Tests, ODIs, and T20 internationals
    • Best cities: Delhi (Arun Jaitley Stadium), Mumbai (Wankhede), Kolkata (Eden Gardens)
  • Women’s Premier League (WPL): March–April
    • Rapidly growing women’s cricket league
    • Matches are family-friendly and a great introduction to Indian sporting culture

Football

  • Indian Super League (ISL): October–April
    • Top-tier professional football with vibrant fan atmospheres
    • Must-see: Kolkata Derby (Mohun Bagan vs. East Bengal), Kerala Blasters home matches
  • I-League: Runs concurrently with ISL; smaller venues offer intimate football experiences

Kabaddi

  • Pro Kabaddi League (PKL): Typically split across two seasons: July–October and December–February
    • Matches are held in indoor arenas; crowds are loud, enthusiastic, and participatory
    • Cities: Bengaluru, Pune, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad

Hockey

  • Hockey India League & International Tournaments: Key events often held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela
  • Olympic & Asian Games Qualification Events: Depending on year, India hosts high-stakes tournaments at Kalinga Stadium

Other Highlights

  • Motorsport:
    • MotoGP at Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida (seasonal)
  • Athletics & Track & Field:
    • National competitions and exhibition events, especially in Delhi and Bengaluru, have grown following Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic success

Tip: For maximum enjoyment, combine stadium visits with cultural excursions in the host city. For example, attending a cricket match in Kolkata and exploring the Victoria Memorial and local street food scene offers the full spectrum of Indian experiences.

✈️ Travelling to India & Getting Around

Entry Requirements

Most international visitors can apply for an e-Tourist Visa online, valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years.

  • Passport: Minimum 6 months validity, two blank pages required
  • Arrival Forms: Digital arrival documentation may be required before immigration
  • Health & Safety: Routine vaccinations recommended; travel insurance advised

Getting to India

India is well-connected internationally, with multiple major airports serving direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Asia.

Major International Hubs:

  • New Delhi (DEL): Gateway to North India and stadiums like Arun Jaitley and Jawaharlal Nehru
  • Mumbai (BOM): Access to Wankhede Stadium and southern IPL matches
  • Bengaluru (BLR): Gateway to southern IPL venues
  • Chennai (MAA), Kolkata (CCU), Hyderabad (HYD), Ahmedabad (AMD): Additional hubs

Tips:

  • Book flights early for IPL, ISL, or major tournaments
  • Multi-city itineraries reduce travel time between sporting hubs
  • Major carriers: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air India, British Airways, Singapore Airlines

Getting Around India

Domestic Flights: Frequent services by IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, GoAir, fast and convenient.

Trains: India’s extensive railway network; Vande Bharat Express links major cities. AC coaches recommended for comfort.

Buses: State-run and private operators connect smaller towns to sporting hubs. Overnight buses save travel time.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Uber and Ola dominate cities; pre-booked taxis preferred for late-night travel.

Tips: Heavy traffic is common; plan extra time to reach stadiums. Use navigation apps or ride-sharing apps for convenience.

🌦️ Climate & Match Conditions

  • India’s climate varies dramatically by region, so planning your trip with weather in mind is essential for a comfortable sporting experience.
  • Best Travel Season: September to April – cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rain make this period ideal for attending both cricket and football matches.
  • Summer Heat: From April to June, temperatures in northern and western cities (Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur) often exceed 40°C (104°F). Daytime matches during these months can be physically demanding; evening fixtures are more comfortable.
  • Monsoon Season: June to September brings heavy rain across much of the country. Matches may be delayed or cancelled in outdoor stadiums, particularly on the western coast (Mumbai, Goa) and northeastern states.
  • Regional Variations:
    • North India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur): Hot summers, mild winters, monsoon June–September
    • West India (Mumbai, Ahmedabad): Humid coastal climate, heavy monsoon rainfall in June–September
    • South India (Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad): Warm and humid, with relatively stable temperatures year-round
    • Northeast India (Kolkata, Guwahati): High humidity, intense summer heat, and heavy monsoon rainfall
  • Stadium Tips: Bring light, breathable clothing for summer matches, a hat and sunscreen, and bottled water. Most major stadiums have water fountains and first-aid stations. Evening or night games are recommended in hotter regions.

🎟️ Buying Tickets in India

  • Attending matches in India requires some planning, especially for high-demand leagues like the IPL or ISL.
  • Online Platforms: Major ticketing is done via BookMyShow and Paytm Insider. Tickets can sell out in minutes for popular matches.
  • Booking Tips:
    • Buy tickets well in advance, especially for IPL finals or Kolkata Derby matches.
    • International credit cards sometimes fail on Indian platforms; using a local payment option or a trusted friend/agent in India can help.
    • Digital tickets are standard; always have a photo ID to match the booking.
  • Stadium Entry: Security checks are stringent; personal belongings like large bags, power banks, lighters, and cameras may be restricted. Many stadiums also have bag-drop facilities.
  • Seating Options: Stadiums often have categories such as VIP, premium, and general admission. For the best experience, premium seating in cricket stadiums offers excellent sightlines and access to food and beverage stalls.
  • Matchday Extras: Some venues offer fan zones, merchandise stalls, and pre-match entertainment, especially for IPL games.

💡 Sports Traveller Tips

  • Maximise your enjoyment and stay safe with these practical tips:
  • Arrive Early: Stadium security is rigorous; arriving 60–90 minutes early is recommended.
  • Stadium Restrictions: Many stadiums ban bags, headphones, power banks, and outside food. Only essential items like ID, phone, wallet, and tickets are typically allowed.
  • Alcohol Policies: Most Indian stadiums are “dry” zones; visible intoxication may result in denied entry.
  • Fan Culture: Expect loud chanting, drums, fireworks, and coordinated supporter displays. Cricket and football crowds are famously enthusiastic and participatory.
  • Supporter Groups: Joining local fan clubs like Bharat Army (cricket) or Manjappada (Kerala Blasters football) can enhance your experience and give insight into local traditions.
  • Food & Drink: Stadiums often serve local snacks: vada pav, samosas, pav bhaji, and hot chai. Try these small treats for an authentic experience.
  • Safety & Conduct: India is generally safe for sports travellers, but keep valuables secure, follow stadium rules, and respect local customs, particularly in more conservative regions.
  • Language: English is widely spoken in sporting contexts, but learning a few cricket/football phrases in Hindi or local languages can be helpful and appreciated by fans.

🏙️ Key Sporting Cities

  • India’s major cities host world-class stadiums, and planning your itinerary around them will maximise your experience:
  • New Delhi: Arun Jaitley Stadium and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium host cricket, football, and athletics events. Delhi is also ideal for combining matches with cultural sightseeing such as the Red Fort and Qutub Minar.
  • Mumbai: Wankhede Stadium for cricket, plus multiple football and kabaddi venues. South Mumbai offers easy access to nightlife, local cuisine, and historic sites like Gateway of India and Marine Drive.
  • Kolkata: Eden Gardens for cricket and Salt Lake Stadium for football. Kolkata is also home to iconic fan cultures, historic colonial architecture, and bustling markets.
  • Ahmedabad: Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket venue, and other emerging sporting facilities. Excellent for IPL matches and short trips to Gujarat’s cultural highlights.
  • Bengaluru: Chinnaswamy Stadium for cricket, plus a growing football scene. Known as India’s tech hub with excellent food, nightlife, and weekend escapes to nearby hill stations.
  • Chennai: M. A. Chidambaram Stadium for cricket, football training academies, and proximity to coastal sightseeing.
  • Other Hubs: Hyderabad, Pune, Jaipur, and Guwahati host international cricket, ISL football, and regional kabaddi events.
  • Pro Tip: Cities in India vary greatly in size and traffic congestion. Always allow extra travel time to reach stadiums, especially in Mumbai and Delhi, where rush-hour traffic can double travel times.

🌍 Beyond Sport: What Else to See in India

🕌 Iconic Landmarks

  • Taj Mahal (Agra): Easily reached from Delhi
  • Jaipur Amber Fort & City Palace: Highlights of the Golden Triangle
  • Varanasi Ghats: Sacred riverside ceremonies along the Ganges
  • Kerala Backwaters: Houseboat cruises through palm-lined lagoons
  • Rajasthan Desert Cities: Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer

🌄 Natural Highlights

  • Himalayan Hill Stations: Shimla, Manali, Darjeeling
  • Goa’s Beaches: Relaxation, nightlife, Portuguese heritage
  • Kerala & Western Ghats: Tea plantations, waterfalls, wildlife

🍛 Food Experiences

  • North India: Butter chicken, naan, curries
  • Mumbai: Vada pav, pav bhaji
  • South India: Dosas, idli, coconut curries
  • West Bengal: Fish curries, rasgulla

🛍️ Shopping & Culture

  • Markets: Chandni Chowk (Delhi), Colaba Causeway (Mumbai), Jaipur bazaars
  • Festivals: Diwali (Oct/Nov), Holi (spring)
  • Cinema: Bollywood films in packed theatres

🗂️ Helpful Links for Planning Your Trip to India

Last Updated on January 24, 2026 by Sports Tourist

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