Planning a trip to India? Whether you’re preparing to explore its bustling cities or embark on a trekking adventure in the Himalayas, these India travel FAQs will help you get the essential information you need for a smooth journey. From visa requirements to health tips, here’s what you need to know.
Yes, most visitors to India require a visa. India offers an electronic visa (e-Visa) for travelers from many countries, which can be applied for online before arrival. The e-Visa is available for tourism, business, and medical purposes and is valid for stays of up to 60 days. Alternatively, you can apply for a traditional visa through an Indian embassy or consulate if your stay exceeds the e-Visa period. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date.
The best time to visit India depends on where you plan to travel. The most popular time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant across most of the country. However, for visits to the Himalayas or to witness festivals such as Diwali or Holi, you might prefer different times of the year. Monsoon season, from June to September, can be an excellent time to explore the lush green landscapes of southern India.
India is generally a safe destination for tourists, but like any country, it’s essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in busy areas, so it’s important to keep your valuables secure. Women travelers are advised to dress conservatively and stay in well-lit areas at night. Always take registered taxis or use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola. Additionally, it’s wise to avoid political protests and demonstrations.
The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). It’s advisable to carry cash when traveling to rural areas, as card payments may not be widely accepted. Major cities have plenty of ATMs, and credit/debit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It’s a good idea to exchange currency at authorized currency exchange counters or banks and avoid street vendors for currency exchanges.
Yes, having travel insurance is highly recommended for India. Travel insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and, if you plan on trekking or adventurous activities, rescue and evacuation. Medical care in major cities is generally good, but hospitals in rural areas may not have the same level of facilities. Comprehensive travel insurance ensures you’re covered in case of any unexpected issues.
It’s not safe to drink tap water in India. Always drink bottled or purified water, which is readily available at stores, hotels, and restaurants. Be cautious with ice cubes, as they are often made with tap water. It’s also a good idea to avoid eating raw fruits or vegetables that may have been washed in untreated water.
India is a multilingual country with 22 officially recognized languages. Hindi is the most widely spoken language, especially in North India. However, English is commonly used for communication in most cities, tourist areas, and among educated populations. In southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, regional languages such as Tamil and Malayalam are widely spoken.
It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic before visiting India. Common vaccinations for travelers include hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. If you’re traveling to rural areas or planning to spend an extended time in India, consider vaccinations for hepatitis B, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis. Additionally, if you’re visiting regions where malaria is prevalent, consult your doctor about anti-malaria medications.
India offers various transportation options. Domestic flights are the quickest way to cover long distances between major cities. The Indian Railways network is extensive, and traveling by train is a popular way to explore the country. For shorter distances, you can use buses, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola. In many cities, auto-rickshaws are a convenient and affordable mode of transport, though it’s advisable to agree on the fare before starting the journey.
India’s culture is rich and diverse, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. When visiting temples, mosques, or other religious sites, always dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a place of worship. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, and it’s polite to greet people with a simple “Namaste,” a slight bow with hands pressed together.
What you pack for India will depend on the regions and time of year you’re visiting. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for most areas, but if you’re traveling to the mountains or visiting during winter, pack warmer layers. A good pair of walking shoes is essential, especially if you plan on exploring cities or trekking. Other essentials include sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a universal power adapter for charging your electronics.
Tipping is generally expected in India, but the amount varies depending on the service. In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of 5-10% of the bill. For hotel staff, a small tip for the porter and housekeeping is appreciated. If you’re taking guided tours or using taxi services, a tip is often expected, especially if the service was excellent.
These India travel FAQs provide a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your trip. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Delhi or trekking in the Himalayas, understanding these essentials will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience in India.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The currency used throughout the country is the Indian rupee. Most vendors will also accept Mastercard or Visa. ATMs are commonplace in 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/
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.
The time zone in India is GMT +5:30.
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.
During your visit to holy places in India, you should wear clothes that cover your head, knees, and shoulders.
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.
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.
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!
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