Book with Confidence - We are ATOL protected company!
Call us on0203 006 2722
Follow Us:

India Travel FAQS

India Travel FAQS

We understand the importance of essential information that you may require of the country that you are intending to visit very soon. We have amalgamated key frequently asked questions and their answers which you may find useful. The questions and their respective answers listed here are just for guidelines meant only to assist you plan and organize your trip. For detail information, we would recommend you to do background research on the country or area that you wish to visit.

What are the main annual festivals or events held?

India has many festivals and events, but two of the biggest celebrations are Dussehra, Diwali and Holi. Dussehra and Diwali is the Hindu Festival of Lights celebrated annually for five days in either October or November. Holi is the Hindu Festival of Colours, celebrated annually in March after the full moon.

How welcoming is India to LGBTQ travellers?

The majority of the country is safe for LGBTQ travelers and families. The country does hold somewhat conservative values, so public displays of affection between gay or straight couples are not common.

Is India a family-friendly destination?

India offers many family-oriented activities including visits to forts and palaces, tiger and leopard safaris, beaches, and museums. We can create a custom itinerary based on your family’s interests.

What are the public bathroom facilities like in India?

There are two types of toilets in India:

1) Western sit-down toilets
2) Asian squat toilets. Squat toilets are the most common in public bathrooms. Some public bathrooms will not provide toilet paper or soap, so we recommend you bring your tissues and hand sanitizer.

Can I use my cellphone in India?

You can purchase a SIM card in India, but we suggest you check with your cellular provider to know what your options are. You might be able to get an affordable roaming plan.

Is Wi-Fi readily available?

Internet access is good in most major areas of India. Wi-Fi is available at most restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and malls. However, poor internet service does exist in remote areas and villages in India. Most hotels charge for Wi-Fi services.

What is the currency used in India?

The currency used throughout the country is the Indian rupee. Most vendors will also accept Mastercard or Visa. ATMs are commonplace in India.

What vaccinations do I need for India?

Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Typhoid. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies. Selectively advised vaccines – only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Japanese Encephalitis.

For more accurate and up to date information please visit:

https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/asia-east/india#:~:text=Courses%20or%20boosters%20usually%20advised,risk%3A%20Cholera%3B%20Japanese%20Encephalitis.

https://healthclinics.superdrug.com/travel-vaccinations/india/

What are the best ways to travel around in India?

The best way to cover the places is to get a private driver for intercity transfer and sightseeing, you may opt for internal flights for longer trips. For a different experience, you may consider embarking on a train journey for a taste of the railway network in India.

What’s India’s time zone?

The time zone in India is GMT +5:30.

How long does it take to fly to India from the UK?

With one stopover (of approximately up to 6 hours) the total duration of the flight is approximately 14 hours whereas direct flight takes around 9 hours.

What should I wear when visiting temples and mosques in India?

During your visit to holy places in India, you should wear clothes that cover your head, knees, and shoulders.

Where should I go in India?

If it is your first time in India, we recommend visiting the famous Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Also, you can include Ranthambore National Park to explore the wildlife famous for tigers.

On a second visit, you might explore the Southern part of India-Tamil Nadu, where colorful temples strike your eyes. Here, you can visit the 49 shines of Ranganathaswamy Temple in Trichy, involved with local families during a cooking class in Pondicherry, and then finish your holiday on the backwaters of Kerala.

Where can I see tigers in India?

In India, the best place to spot tigers is Central India, make your way to Kanha, Satpura, Pench, and Tadoba national parks. Scattered across the central states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh, they’re home to the country’s greatest concentration of Bengal tigers. Additionally, you will likely see wildlife, like sloth bears, leopards, deer, and elephants, who all roam freely through the protected jungles. However, if you have Rajasthan in your itinerary, you may include Ranthambore National Park, rather than travel so far.

Where can I stay in India?

From lavish palaces to simple homestays, the type of accommodation in India depends on where you want to stay as India has a lot to offer meeting the budget of every kind. The big cities offer a huge range of accommodation ranging from five-star hotels and boutique guesthouses. Outside the cities, you may want to spend a night in a heritage property a remote lodge, or a safari camp in the middle of the jungle. During your exploration of the Golden Triangle, you can also choose to stay in a converted fort, a regal palace, or a historic family mansion known as a haveli. Further, in South India, you can immerse yourself into rural life with a homestay, known as Theravada, or a rice barge-cum-houseboat that glides along the sleepy backwaters. Our team of experts will be delighted to find you the accommodation that meets your requirements so come and explore with us!

What can I experience in India?

India is a big and diverse country so what you experience depends on what part of the country you are covering. One of the most popular and landmark sights is the Taj Mahal. Located in the famous India’s Golden Triangle, Agra’s world-renowned mausoleum is an epic sight during sunrise. Close to Agra, you can also embark on a jungle safari in Ranthambore National Park or explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur. Down in the South backwaters of Kerala may appeal to you for a tranquil experience.

Where can I find the latest travel advice for India?

For the latest travel advice for India, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india

What food and drink should I try in India?

India is a diverse country, every region and culture is blessed with their unique cuisine so what you eat and drink will vary depending on where you visit. But, there are a few things that you will find everywhere no matter where you go. For example, thali are traditional meals made of different curries and lentils with traditional accompaniments served in small bowls and arranged attractively on a large tray. A few of the dishes may vary as per the region. India is heaven for street food lovers as you can find a huge range everywhere from big cities to small villages which you may consider while having a stroll through the streets. Another sight you cannot miss is small tea stalls, chaiwallahs selling masala milk tea. For more in-depth knowledge why not jump into culinary experience?

How much should I tip in India?

It is usual to tip the waiters, porters, guides, and drivers. Tips are not included in the bills of hotels, transport companies, or any other suppliers. At hotels and restaurants, about 10% of the bill total is usually acceptable as a tip. For establishments that have a service tax or charge included in the bill, a separate tip may not be required.

Drivers/Guides: Rs. 1000 per full day
Porters: Rs. 100 per piece of luggage
Reps at Airports: Rs. 200 per service
Helper in vehicle: Rs. 200 per day

What language is spoken in India?

The official language is Hindi which is spoken by about 30% of the population, but English is widely spoken in metro cities and tourist areas. In addition, there are more than 100 other regional languages and dialects, including Punjabi, Bengali, Gujarati, and Oriya, which are widely used in the north, and Tamil and Telugu, which are common in the south. Other regional languages are Marathi, Kannada, and Malayalam. The northern Muslim population largely speaks Urdu.

Do you need a visa?

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder. India has several visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel. Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation.

For more accurate and up-to-date visa information on India please visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

When is the best time to go?

India is a giant country has various climatic regions, what that means the best time to travel will depend on which part of India you are visiting? Generally, India’s weather is divided into three seasons – summer, winter and the monsoon. Typically, winter (November to February) is the preferred and considered as best time for many travellers to visit. The Himalayas and hill stations are best explored during the summer season (March to May). The monsoon season (June to August) brings rain. Although, this season does not stop you from travelling to India, you should be prepared to encounter rain and warm.

How can I get there?

India has very good flight connects from United Kingdom. There are numerous direct flights to India from the UK, although their frequency and the duration of the flight will depend on which of the country’s airports you are planning to fly into. There are direct flights from London to cities like Delhi and Mumbai serviced by Vistara, Virgin, Air India, and British Airways. Non-direct flights from the UK to other popular Indian cities, like Goa, Chennai, and Hyderabad are also available with a stopover in Delhi or Mumbai. Flight times vary between eight-and-a-half hours and 14 hours depending on which part of India you are visiting.

Do I need any vaccinations ahead of travel?

Infact, vaccination requirements vary for one country to another. Although we are able to give you advice, we are not medical professionals and are not able to give you specific advice on medical matters. We strongly recommend that you consult with your GP or travel clinic and seek professional advice before you travel. It may be helpful, if you take a copy of your holiday itinerary with you during your appointment. For more details please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-of-health

Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Typhoid. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies. Selectively advised vaccines – only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Japanese Encephalitis.

For more accurate and up to date information please visit:

https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/asia-east/india#:~:text=Courses%20or%20boosters%20usually%20advised,risk%3A%20Cholera%3B%20Japanese%20Encephalitis

https://healthclinics.superdrug.com/travel-vaccinations/india/

What is the local currency and what currency should I take?

The Indian rupee is the local currency. It’s usually best to exchange your currency once you arrive in India. Euros, sterling and US dollars are all easy to change for rupees at local banks and exchange bureaus. The most of major credit and debit cards are widely accepted at the ATMs and shops, hotels and restaurants in tourist areas.

What is there to see and do?

Magical India has lots to offer to visitors. India’s attractions are varied and diverse, from its famous monuments and historical sites like the Taj Mahal, Delhi’s Red Fort, Mysore’s Maharaja’s Palace and the Jaisalmer Fort, to the stunning beaches in Goa and the wildlife reserves like Ranthambore where you can spot tigers and many other exotic creatures. The northern region of India where you can explore hill stations and enjoy the Himalayas whereas in the southern regions you can enjoy the sunshine on glorious beaches. Please visit “Places to visit India” and “Highlights of India” section in our website to explore more about India attractions.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. The tap water is not considered as safe drinking water in India. It’s strongly recommended that you stick to bottled mineral water.


Popular Itineraries in India

Kerala with Flights

Kerala with Flights

12 days from £1399pp
  • Most Popular Holidays
  • Family Holidays
read more
Himalayan Foothills

Himalayan Foothills

13 days from £2199pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Group Tours
read more
Golden Triangle with Goa

Golden Triangle with Goa

12 days from £1399pp
  • Most Popular Holidays
  • Group Tours
read more
Unforgettable India & Sri Lanka

Unforgettable India & Sri Lanka

17 days from £2299pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Beach Holidays
read more
Glimpse of India Nepal & Bhutan

Glimpse of India Nepal & Bhutan

22 days from £4599pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Most Popular Holidays
  • Multi Country
read more
Luxury Classic Rajasthan

Luxury Classic Rajasthan

15 days from £3999pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Lumle Luxury
read more
Exploring Ladakh: Leh, Alchi and Nubra Valley
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Group Tours
read more
No single supplement India

No single supplement India

13 days from £1498pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Solo Holidays
  • Group Tours
read more
Luxury India Sri Lanka & Maldives

Luxury India Sri Lanka & Maldives

26 days from £5249pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Beach Holidays
  • Lumle Luxury
read more
Jewels of North India
Easter sale

Jewels of North India

13 days from £2349pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Most Popular Holidays
  • Group Tours
read more
India Maldives Escape

India Maldives Escape

17 days from £3999pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Most Popular Holidays
  • Beach Holidays
read more
Taj Temples and Tigers

Taj Temples and Tigers

10 days from £2699pp
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Safari Holidays
  • Group Tours
read more

Travel Info

    • Flight time 8 1/2 hours (New Delhi)
    • Timezone GMT+5 1/2 hours
    • Recommended airlines Turkish, Air India, Lufthansa, Austrian, Swiss, Oman, Etihad, Qatar, Emirates, Vistara
    • Best season Oct-Mar

Our Top Offers

Luxury Kerala

Luxury Kerala

It’s now time to embark on a wonderful holiday through Luxury Kerala.

  
from £1699pp
Read more
Jewels of North India

Jewels of North India

Your journey starts in magnetic capital city Delhi! Explore historically rich…

was£2349 pp
now £1199pp
Read more
Exploring Ladakh: Leh, Alchi and Nubra Valley

Exploring Ladakh: Leh, Alchi and Nubra Valley

Embark on a journey of a lifetime. Off the beaten tracks in India will take…

  
from £2299pp
Read more
Read more Offers

request brochure

Price Match Promise
Price Match Promise We'll not only match the price but also beat it by 25% of the difference.
We are ATOL protected
We are ATOL protected So there is no chance of you loosing your money or being stranded abroad.
Safe and Secure
Safe and Secure All bookings are made through Lumle Holidays are safe and secure.

Need Assistance ?

Our team is at your service to help you with your booking issues or answer any related questions


0203 006 2722

Start planning your tailor-made holiday by contacting one of our specialists  of  India

Call one of our Specialists on 0203 006 2722 Make an Enquiry

Request a brochure

Written by our specialists, our destination brochures are not only designed to showcase the countless beautiful places you can travel to, but also to help narrow down the many choices you're faced with when planning a trip.

Why choose lumle holidays?

Trusted by thousands of customers for serving amazing holidays over the several years.

Customer Satisfaction

Our customers say our staffs are professional and we provide world-class service.

Safety Assured

As an ATOL protected company, we guarantee your money is totally safe when you book a package with us.

Tour Specialists

All our specialists who handle your trip have travelled extensively or lived in their specialist countries/regions.

Price Guaranteed

Price match guaranteed. We want to ensure we provide great value to your holiday.