Traveling around the world is a great way to learn and enjoy life. But planning a trip can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. We help make it easy by planning your travel carefully. Below is some useful information to help you plan your trip to India.
Passport and Visa
You need a visa to enter India. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and must have two blank pages for stamps.
For the latest visa details, click here to visit the Government of India’s website.
If you plan to visit places like Ladakh, Sikkim, or the Andaman Islands, you’ll need special permission.
e-Tourist Visa: India gives e-Tourist Visas to visitors from 76 countries. It’s a 30-day single-entry visa and only valid at certain airports. Click here for more info.
Important: If you’re going to Nepal or Bhutan and coming back to India later, you need a double or multiple-entry Indian visa. You’ll also need visas for Nepal and Bhutan.
Customs Guidelines
You can bring foreign money into India. But you must tell customs if:
- You carry more than US$ 5000 in cash.
- You bring more than US$ 10,000 in total (cash, traveller’s cheques, etc.).
For full customs info, click here.
Weather in India
India has three main seasons:
- Winter (Nov–Mar): Cool and sunny. North India can get cold and even snowy. South and East India are mild.
- Summer (Apr–Jun): Hot. Hill stations like Shimla and Darjeeling are cooler.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Rainy season starts in June. South-east India also gets rain from Oct to Dec.
Winter is the most popular time to visit, but air-conditioning makes summer travel easier now too.
Health
Please talk to your doctor before traveling. Ask about any vaccines or health tips you may need. We don’t give medical advice.
Insurance
We suggest buying travel insurance. It can help with cancellations, lost bags, or medical issues.
Note: We do not sell insurance.
What to Pack / Clothes
Pack clothes based on the weather:
- Summer/Monsoon: Light cotton clothes. Avoid synthetic fabrics. Bring a hat and a folding umbrella.
- Winter: Sweaters or light jackets.
Dress modestly, especially in small towns. Women should avoid shorts and tank tops.
At temples and other holy places, wear long clothes. Remove shoes before entering.
For hotel dinners, smart casual clothes are fine.
Electricity
India uses 220 volts. Bring a travel adapter if needed.
Photography
Always ask people before taking their photo. Do not take pictures at airports.
Internet
Most hotels offer Wi-Fi or wired internet. Some also have computer centers.
Indian Food
Indian food is very diverse. It’s not just rice and curry. “Curry” is a foreign word-Indians don’t often use it.
Each region has its own style. Not all dishes are spicy, and you can ask for less chili.
There is no single Indian dish-every home cooks differently!
Baggage on Domestic Flights
- Economy: 15 kg (33 lbs) check-in, 7 kg (15 lbs) hand luggage
- Business: 20 kg (44 lbs) check-in, 7 kg (15 lbs) hand luggage
All bags are scanned. Do not carry sharp items or batteries in hand luggage.
Gratuities (Tipping)
Tips are not required, but they are appreciated. Here are some suggestions for two people:
- Guides: ₹1000–1500/day
- Drivers: ₹250–500 (airport), ₹500–1000 (full day), ₹1000–1500 (overnight)
- Porters: ₹50/bag
- Housekeepers: ₹250–500/night
- Room Service: 10–15%
- Restaurants: 10–15% (if not included in bill)
(₹100 = around $2)
Personal Expenses
You’ll need to pay for extras like room service, phone calls, laundry, internet, tipping, extra luggage charges, and visa fees.
Meals on Tour
Most hotels include breakfast.
Lunch and dinner are not usually included, except at jungle lodges or Kerala houseboats.
Feel free to eat out. Your guide can suggest good places to eat.
Note: Some hotels charge extra for Christmas or New Year’s Gala dinners.
Arrival and Travel Documents
At the airport, your driver can’t meet you inside customs. He’ll wait outside with a sign showing your name. You’ll get your final travel documents and local contact list when you arrive in India.