VISITING INDIA |
 |
|
|
| |
India is land of many diversities: A vast subcontinent with
climate and customs varying from one region to the next.
Before embarking on your visit it is a good idea to check
out a few facts.
For your convenience, we have provided some general information
below – which is however, not meant to be taken as absolute,
complete, comprehensive, or in any order of importance, but
as simply a starting point.
|
|
| |
Visas
|
All non-Indian
Passport holders require a passport, and an appropriate (entry,
transit or tourist) visa, both with validity covering the
intended duration of your visit. It is advisable to have the
validity of passport 6 months beyond your departure date from
India. The Visa must be obtained abroad from an Indian Embassy
or High Commission.
|
| |
Health
|
While there are
no compulsory vaccinations for travel to India, we strongly
advise that for all medical and health advice you consult
your doctor and/or your appropriate Medical Centre / Health
Advisory Service at least six weeks before your intended the
date of travel. A valid yellow fever certificate is mandatory
for anyone who has been, even in transit, in Africa, South
America, or Papua New Guinea in the last six days.
|
| |
Insurance
|
International travellers
these days are well aware of the importance and advantages
of purchasing insurance to cover the maximum number of contingencies.
Nevertheless, we feel duty bound to remind you that you should
do so.
|
| |
Regarding Money
|
| In India, the unit of currency is the
Rupee (Rs.) divided into 100 paise. Banknote denominations are
Rs.1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5. Coins are Rs.5, 2, 1, &
Paise 50, 25.
Most major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, Amex etc.
are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops, as are
travellers cheques.
Foreign currency should be changed with Authorised Money Changers
only - facility is available at most hotels, banks, international
airports, and some large shops. Do make sure to obtain an
‘Encashment Certificate’ when you change money.
It will help you reconvert any Indian money you might have
left over back into your original currency at the time of
departure.
|
Dressing for India
|
India is generally
warm - though it can be bitterly cold in Northern states,
particularly in winter months. Generally, clothes that ‘breathe’,
and which can be worn in layers are a good idea; in winter,
a sweater/cardigan and a windcheater are useful. Outside your
hotels, it is generally best to be dressed somewhat conservatively,
avoiding clothes that are too revealing, transparent or skimpy.
A scarf, hat, or cap provides protection from the sun.
At some places of worship – temples and mausoleums –
shoes are required to be removed before entering.
|
Baggage
|
While baggage (by
pieces and/or weight) allowed by international airlines, particularly
on trans-Atlantic sectors may be more, if taking any flights
in India please keep in mind that our domestic airlines allow
each economy class passenger only 20 kilograms of checked
baggage. They also require your checked baggage to have your
lock on it.
|
| |
Tipping
|
At restaurants,
if service charge is not included in the bill, 10 to 15% is
the normal tip.
For hotel porters Rupees 20 per large bag is usual; for sightseeing
guides and drivers Rupees 50 to Rs 100 per person per day
depending on service.
|
Photography
|
Camera fees vary
from place to place in India, and we do not include them in
our tour prices. Other than restricted areas, airports, and
inside some monuments/museums, photography is generally permitted
everywhere. Before photographing unknown individuals it is
better to seek their permission – and offer a small
tip if appropriate.
|
| |
Note
|
While the information
given above is correct at the time of publication to the best
of our knowledge and belief, we regret we cannot accept any
responsibility for any discrepancies, changes or consequences.
The information is given as a genuine effort on our part to
be helpful.
|
| |
|
| |
|
About
us 
