The home of one billion people is a hotpot of culture, tradition, history, adventure and landscapes. It’s no wonder millions throng here every year looking for a slice of the magic that dwells in many an unassuming corner of the country. There’s a tendency to believe that India revels in her poverty, but some of the largest metropolises are growing glitzier by the day, and the smartest brains are ever on the lookout for the next big thing. From the foothills of the Himalayas to the tip of the mainland, you can find delicacies or spiritual awakening. No matter how you identify, India will welcome you with open arms and care for you as one of her own.
Travellers of all nationalities to India are required to carry a passport that is valid for at least 180 days. Visa on arrival is not granted to all visitors so be sure to check with the embassy before you make any plans. Usually, visitors from Maldives, Bhutan and Nepal may enter without hassle, while citizens of Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Luxembourg, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam may avail visa-on-arrival services provided they are not of Bangladeshi or Pakistani origin.
Your quick guide to how things are done in India. Remember, when in Rome…
Thousands of international airlines fly into India, including Emirates, Cathay Pacific and British Airways.
The climate varies from tropical in the south to temperate in the north. We’ll help you pack according to your itinerary.
India is a secular nation where you’ll find widespread Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism.
Even the traditional garb varies regionally, but you can play it safe with capris and skirts below the knee. Dress modestly.
Several vaccinations are recommended by WHO for travelers visiting India. Best to carry a bottle of water on your person.
Tipping is expected by guides and taxi drivers in most tourist spots. However, don’t feel compelled to give handouts to beggars.
All outlets in India run on 240V at 50Hz. The outlets are usually round pin, but you might find some flat pin outlets at hotels.
Most hotels provide WiFi services, but there’s nothing about the speed to celebrate.
From Maggi in the Himalayas to a five course meal at a luxury hotel in the South, you can find an amazing range of cuisine!
Some of the biggest brands in the world retail in India, but you can also find street markets where people hawk their ware at incredible discount prices.
India has the entire gamut of eco-lodges, wildlife lodges, luxury properties and boutique hotels.
The currency of India is INR or Indian Rupees. Denominations of 2000, 500 and 100 are typically used in larger transactions.
It’s a free country, but you might have to pay a camera fee for certain attractions. When taking pictures of people, it’s basic courtesy to ask if they would mind.
There are 18 official languages in India, with Hindi being the most widely spoken. However, most tourist places have English speaking guides.
While most people are warm and welcoming, keep your valuables safe and don’t leave belongings unattended with strangers.