SO YOU'RE PLANNING THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME... INDIA!
Magical, mystical, spiritual and expansive, India can appear a frightening prospect. With so much to explore and so many different encounters available, somewhat of clever planning will go a long way in helping one to get the most out of your trip.
Whether you're backpacking through the Himalayas, taking a tour round the dizzying architecture and bustling metropolitan areas of Rajasthan, Delhi or Agra, or sauntering the sandy beaches of Goa, Mumbai or Kerala, we are going to here to help you through the treasures and pitfalls of India, gradually.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE....
To enter India, you desire a passport, visa and an onward or return ticket. Make sure your passport is valid and expires at least 6 months after you're planning to leave India, and get your visa sorted in advance. Nationals of some countries are granted a 30 day visa on arrival, but you'll need to enroll for the scheme in advance and pay a $60 (USD) fee. On the other hand, should you be not from one of the included countries, obtaining a visa can take a lttle bit of time and energy.
Find out more at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in.
WHAT YOU SHOULD TAKE...
Whether you're going off the beaten track or sticking to big cities, there's a couple of simple items you can bring to make your stay more comfortable. Your own padlock can give you peace of mind if you're hostelling, or for keeping your backpack secure in over crowded areas.
A high SPF sunscreen is an absolute must, as is insect-repellent! Palm sanitiser is a good way of keeping clean when travelling, while ear-plugs, a flight mask and your own sheet will make any long-haul educate or bus trips much more comfortable.
LOCAL ETIQUETTE
Clothing:
No flaunting flesh, especially in rural areas! And men should avoid tight-fitting clothes, which is interpreted as an indication of low income. Remember to remove your shoes when entering someone's home, any temples or mosques and some historical monuments.
Tipping:
A little 5-10% tip at a restaurant is appropriate for good service. Drivers and tour guides will also expect a 10% tip, while a token tip should be given to porters.
Table Good manners:
Cutlery isn't traditionally used, so dig in with your fingers! Wash your hands before and after eating, obviously, and use your bread (usually naan or roti) as a scoop.
Greetings:
Namaste means 'Hello' in India, and should be combined with folded hands and a bowed head. Don't shake hands unless its initiated by someone else, and keep in mind that folks00 do not make physical contact with each other. Transport is cheap and frequent, though prone to overcrowding. Trains and busses will take you just about anywhere, though for long-haul trips an internal flight may be your best option (if cash allows! ). Bicycles, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are a great (if highly adrenalised) way of nipping in and out of city traffic.
HOW TO TRAVEL
So you've packed like a pro, you've plotted out your journey and you're looking for some memorable activities to get down to in uniquely Indian fashion! Fret no more - here is our guide to unmissable Indian activities.
UNIQUELY INDIAN EXPERIENCES
It's hard to picture India without visualising the statuesque white marbled structure rising up in front of you. A haunting monument to lost love, architectural excellence and Indian design, it's magnificent enough to form the focal point of your trip. Stick to the "golden triangle" tourist route (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) to fit in plenty of stunning historical sites.
WATCH THE SUN SET OVER THE TAJ MAHAL ELEPHANT RIDING IN RAJASTHAN
Iconically American indian, elephants symbolise mental power, nature and responsibility here. Take a load off while mastering the globe's heaviest land mammal - you're in for a bumpy ride! Elephant travels are popular in Rajasthan, which is home to some of India's most stunning architecture - catch an elephant up the hill to the Amber Structure for an unforgettable day out.
CRUISE DOWN THE GANGES
Surely the most calming way to see India, a very good cruise down the Ganges from Delhi to Kolkalta will afford you an outstanding view of some of India's most interesting sites - from Indio cave temples to Buddhist monasteries, not to point out the famous river itself. Home to the rarest species of crocodiles, the Gharial, and surrounded by mystery and legend, the Ganges is sure to create irreplaceable memories.
For more information about Flights to India check our website.
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