I had my first taste of India when I went to get my visa at the consulate in New York City. I was in a small room overfilled with 100 plus bodies. They run a disordered, but somewhat mysteriously efficient system. I took a number and waited around for my number to be called. Towards the tail end of my time there, I broke down, found a relatively empty corner, and sat on the floor with no shame.
After 2 hours, my number was finally called and I went to the teller's booth and submitted my visa application with picture and passport. After submitting my documents, I returned in 3.5 hours to receive my passport with a sparkly, new Indian visa.
Despite the numerous hours you spend there and amidst all of the confusion, you somehow end up with your visa at the end of the day.
The address is 3 East 64th Street (between Madison and 5th avenue), New York, NY 10021 if you're up for the challenge. Ask the security guard if you have any questions. When I was there, they did not have any signs that described the lengthy process.