India is a vast sub-continent with a climate
and customs all of its own. So before you embark on your trip it
is best to check out a few facts to make sure your stay is as
comfortable as possible.
The following information is correct at the time of publication,
however, we regret we cannot accept any responsibility for any
changes to the advice or information given.
Insurance
We strongly recommend that you purchase insurance to protect
your investment.
Health
There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to India,
although it is strongly recommended that you protect yourself
against the following: Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitus A,
Cholera and Malaria. We advise you consult your Doctor allowing
at least 4 weeks before the date of travel for all medical
advice. An inoculation against Yellow Fever is required if you
have visited any infected areas 5 days prior to your arrival in
India.
Passports, Visas
British citizens must hold a full, valid British passport,
(minimum 6 months validity from the intended date of departure
from India).
All foreign nationals must obtain a visa to visit India.
Information on visas can be obtained from:
INDIAN HIGH COMMISION
India House,
Aldwych,
London WC2B 4NA
Tel; 020 7240 1012
Fax: 020 7240 6312
www.hcilondon.net
Climate
India is a vast country with complex seasonal
variations in climate. Generally the best time to visit India is
between October and April. The Monsoon season starts in mid May
and continues through to the end of August. Most of the game
reserves are closed during the Monsoon period. During the summer
months of May and June, the lower plains of the South and the
desert areas of the North are very hot, while the hills and
mountain regions are considerably cooler.
What to Wear
If you want to keep cool in the Indian sun, a good
supply of cotton clothing is essential along with a comfortable
pair shoes. Clothing and laundry are both inexpensive in India. An
effective pair of sun glasses and a wide brimmed hat will
protect you against the strong rays, and it is advisable to use
high factor sun cream. In the cooler months you will require
some warm clothes such as light sweaters or shawls for the
evenings. If your tour takes you to mountain regions, then you
will require warmer clothes. For visits to Game Parks, we
recommend wearing light woollens and a windcheater as the early
morning excursions can be quite chilly, with heavier clothing
during the winter months of November to February.
Visiting Temples
When visiting places of worship and mausoleums there are certain
religious customs to be observed, it is customary to remove your
footwear before entering all temples. In some places of worship
the legs must be completely covered, so long trousers/skirts
must be worn. In Jain and Hindu temples leather goods such as
belts and bags will not be permitted.
Photography
India is a kaleidoscope of colour just waiting to be
photographed, so wherever you travel be sure to carry a camera
with you. Popular brands and speeds of film and digital memory
disks are widely available and not expensive.
With the exception of the inside of the Taj Mahal, the airports,
and other restricted areas, you may photograph to your hearts
content. Popular sites levy an additional charge for use of your
camera, video cameras may cost a little more.
Cabs and Cars
The majority of hired cars are chauffeur driven in India. Hiring
a taxi is not a problem and quite reliable. To avoid any
confusion over the cost, agree the fare before you get in.
Gratuities and Tipping
This is entirely at your discretion. However, the following
information may be helpful. If service is not included in the
bill, a 10% tip is the usual amount to give. Hotel and railway
porters will expect about 50 rupees for one piece of luggage and
about 200 rupees for a trolley full. At the end of your trip if
you wish to tip your guide and driver, an acceptable amount for
a guide would be between 400 and 500 rupees per day and for the
driver between 200 and 400 rupees per day.
Currency
The currency of India is the Rupee, GBP £1.00 = INR80 approx.
Please check exchange rates before you travel. Pounds sterling,
US dollars and travellers cheques can be exchanged into Indian
Rupees locally, as the Rupee is only exchangeable in India and
not exportable. Exchange facilities are available at major
airports and bureau de changes. Request a broad mix of note
denominations, as smaller notes will be useful for small
purchases and tips. Major credit cards are widely acceptable,
your guide will advise you where you can use them. Cash can also
be obtained from ATMs/Cash machines.
Food and Drink
Avoid eating very spicy foods when you first arrive in
India. Allow your body a few days to get used to them, the
spices are of a much better quality than at home. It is best to
stick to cooked foods and remember to peel fruit before eating
it. Drink only bottled mineral water, which is widely available,
unless otherwise advised by your guide. Check the seal has not
been broken on the bottle. Indian beer is very good but imported
spirits and wine are very expensive.
Travelling by Road
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the front seats
of a car.
Electricity
The electrical current in India is 230-240V and
electricity is widely available in tourist destinations. Sockets
are the three round pin variety. Adaptors can be purchased.
Time
India is 5 hours 30 minutes ahead of GMT and 4 hours 30 minutes
ahead of British Summer Time. India does not observe Daylight
Saving.
