General Information

India is a land known for its unity in diversity. Indians believe in a Sanskrit saying – "Atithi Devo Bhavah" that means guests should be treated like gods. India is now a highly developed country in every field. India is a popular travel destination and you can safely travel throughout its length and breadth as all tourist destinations of the country have good infrastructure and facilities for travelers.

Needless to say, you should carry some extra pair of dresses for your trip. Winter garments are required if you are visiting Northern, Western or Eastern parts during the winter season in India (November till February). Southern states experience comfortable weather during the period. However, you should keep shawls or half-sleeve sweater with you while visiting South India during the period. For camping or trekking, take along necessary gear and items like an extra pair of shoes, some water bottles, tent, mattress, mosquito coil, mosquito net, torch, utensils etc. Don't carry unnecessary load as it will create problems for you during trekking expeditions. If you require anything extra, you can purchase the same from the local shops. Ensure you always carry your identification details with you.

Though many travelers use Android phones to access the internet or take photographs during the travels but it hardly matters if you don't have such a handset. You can find cyber cafés everywhere, even rural areas have them. You would be asked to show your Photo ID or some other identification document to access the internet in cyber cafes.

Since the British period, India has developed its railway network just like a spider develops its own web. You can reach anywhere easily by making instant reservation (known as Tatkal) online or by purchasing tickets from the reservation windows at railway stations.

Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express or other superfast and luxury trains (like The Fairy Queen, The Palace on Wheels, The Deccan Odyssey) are advisable for long journeys. Alternatively, you can opt for road journey if you are a professional photographer or adventure lover.

A small First Aid Box should be carried during travels, especially during adventure sport activities like trekking, rock climbing, mountaineering and river rafting. Some of the places are prone to malaria and cholera especially during rainy season. You should immediately visit a physician if you feel unwell during your travels. You can easily find medical stores and druggists everywhere in India. In case of anything serious, always contact your hotel assistant for immediate help. Avoid the consumptions of uncovered foods, fruits, sweets and other dishes. During summers, always use sunglasses and hat to avoid sun-stroke.

Ensure that you abide by the conventions, rituals and regulations of the religious places. Women should avoid wearing tight-skin or low-neck garments or mini skirts in the religious places, and both men and women should cover their heads with some cloth while visiting any Gurudwara or Mosque.

It is always better to change your currency from official moneychangers. Otherwise ask the hotel in-charge for assistance. Currency Exchange receipt is a must after each transaction.

Majority of the Indians practice tipping at the cafés or restaurants. Albeit it's a personal choice, but it is practiced as a form of obeisance to the people or groups who are offering services to the tourists.

Cameras are allowed at most of the tourists places but never break any rule. If photography is prohibited at some tourist site, do not use camera there. Always abide by the rules to avoid any legal action.

1. Always carry the scanned photocopies of your essential documents like travel visa, voter ID, passport, driving license, airline ticket, etc.

2. Keep a first-aid box with you wherever you go. Contact local police in case of any problem to get immediate assistance.

3. Always obey the traffic rules.

4. Keep a list of the contact numbers of the police stations of your native land and the visiting place. It is better to contact hotel in-charge in case of emergency where you are putting up.

5. Eat your own food. Always use seal-packed drinking water (check the seal).

6. Negotiate the rates of the local rickshaws or auto-rickshaws before commencing your journey. It is better to know the current rate and check the electronic fare-box (meter) carefully.

1. Avoid excessive interaction with unknown people.

2. Never leave your luggage unattended. Never ask any unknown person to look after your luggage.

3. Avoid keeping excessive cash on your pockets. Never keep valuable items in your wallet.

4. It is better not to carry precious jewels or heavy cash with you.

220 V (Voltage) is used in all the Indian states. It is better to purchase a converter from a local hardware store to run some specific electrical appliances whose voltage requirement could be different from the above 220V.

Keep the contact details of the nearest police station and the police station where you belong to. Foreigners should contact their embassy in case of some serious concern.

American Express, Master Card, Visa Cards are generally accepted by most establishments and public service institutions including hotels, shops, airlines, railways etc.

GMT +5:30. It is better to use a clock that can be operated as per the standard time of India. The standard time for India is calculated from Allahabad. While setting the time, check the status (GMT + 5:30) for Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi.