For many first-time visitors, a holiday in India can be a pretty daunting prospect, given the vastness of the country and the hectic ness of its urban areas. It can be inspiring, moving and, at times even infuriating. In order to enjoy your tour to the maximum, do go with an open mind; and perhaps without drawing comparisons with any other destination or culture. That said, with a little prior planning one can experience a stress-free holiday in this vibrant and varied nation.

India is completely different from any other country with its diverse mix of peoples, climates, scenery, religions, and cultural influences. We have prepared below travel tips and guide to help you for after you arrive in India.

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Travel Documents

All foreign nationals are required to carry a valid National Passport with a valid visa for the countries you are visiting. For more information about the documents you need and the process to follow, visit the relevant Embassy / Consulate / Government online portals for Visa Application.

Health Precautions

Uncooked food will inevitably be washed with contaminated water which will make you go running for the toilet. If you’re a raw foodies, we recommend you change your diet while in India. Visit your doctor before you travel for all relevant vaccinations/immunizations. Medical insurance coverage is recommended. Please carry an extra set of your prescribed medication (if any) and keep handy a ready list of allergies and other relevant information regarding your health.

Local Sim Card

It can be surprisingly difficult to get a SIM card in India and usually involves quite a lot of paper work. We recommend getting your SIM from airport Arrival counter or through an official office of the carrier such as Vodafone, Airtel or Idea.

Local Culture and Customs

It's a good idea to stay away from contentious topics of conversation with anyone you don't know well, as it's easy to cause offence in what is a diverse and pluralistic society. In Asia India, Nepal and Bhutan are secular countries where people following different faiths and religions live in harmony. There are some local customs and religions sentiments you need to be mindful of when travelling; a modest dress code in general, removing shoes when entering religious places, covering your head as a mark of respect on some occasions, and being aware of local etiquette, is appreciated.

Currency

No matter who you are dealing with, always watch out for “miscalculations”. Use a calculator on your phone to check financial transactions. ATM’s are the safest way to get cash because the machine won’t scam you or you can change currency through authorized money changers / banks.

Carry cash.

Credit cards are only accepted at larger shopping outlets, restaurants or hotels. Therefore you will always need to carry some cash so that you can pay for taxis, auto rickshaws, moderate hotels and your food etc. Please keep all your cards , passport and tickets under your clothing in your passport pouch.

Information about Destination

Look up your destination on the Internet, study maps, get advice from your tour operator or other travellers

Etiquette at Religious places

Whenever you go to a Hindu temple, Church, Mosque, Gurudwara (Sikh temple), be sure to wear etiquette dress, full hand and legs covered, you may need to cover your head also while visiting Gurudwara. Many people will want your money at some religious places as donations and it can be a bit overwhelming. If you feel to give something then have a wad of 10 rupee notes ready so that you don’t hurt your budget too quickly. Please remove your shoes at safe place at the designating area.

Indians drive on the left side of the road.

Since the British influenced the first Indian cars they follow suit with driving on the left. Although, crazy driving often may lead to seeing people on the wrong side of the road.

Ride a train at least once

Trains in India have wide networks and often faster than driving on certain routes. Travel in 2AC, 3AC or 1st class and make sure you book your tickets early enough that they’re not sold out. Trains are the best way to travel long distances if you’re on a budget. Avoid the food from co passengers and except if it’s packaged from restaurants.

Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory but customary, entirely at your discretion. However, on more than one occasions, the person providing you a service (driver, bell boy, waiter, porter, etc.) would expect a tip which would mean you liked his services.

Voltage

Electrical voltage current in India, Nepal and Bhutan is 220/240 volts, with a circular two pin and three pin power outlets. For all electrical appliances that you bring with you, please carry the appropriate adapters. It is also recommended that you take battery-operated appliances where possible, along with a supply of extra batteries.

Print or download your e-tickets before get into the airport.

The military guards at the entrance to the airport will not allow you to enter unless you have valid ID and itinerary.

Your bags don’t weigh too much

Domestic Indian flights have weight limits of 15 kgs for checked bags and 7 kgs for carry-on bags. All bags are strictly weighed and excess baggage fees are around $5 (300 Rs) per kilogram.

Batteries and Power bank

Remove absolutely all your electronic items including cameras and batteries. Know that Power Banks are not allowed in hand bag. Keep your boarding pass in hand so that the security guard can stamp it and watch out for people pushing in line.