🗺️🇮🇳 India Travel Tips and Advice

Even the most seasoned globetrotters will tell you – India is unlike any other place on Earth. A land of contrasts, it is at once mystical, overwhelming, and breathtakingly beautiful. For first-time visitors, especially those coming from the West, the sheer density of people, the buzzing chaos of traffic, and yes, the pollution and poverty in big cities can feel intense.

But don’t be mistaken – this is only the first layer of India. Beyond the crowded streets that greet you at the airport lies another India: one of majestic monuments, enchanting wildlife, timeless traditions, and dazzling cultural diversity – home to 44 Cultural and Natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the heritage of Forts & palaces of Rajasthan, and the idyllic beaches of Goa and Kerala. This is the India that has captured the imagination of travelers for centuries.

To truly understand why India continues to be one of the world’s most beloved destinations, you need to look deeper – and travel smarter. That’s where our insider tips and advice come in. From practical details you may never have thought of, to cultural insights that enrich your journey, we’ve gathered everything you need for an unforgettable experience.

At Vacation India, our goal is simple: to make your adventure through India as comfortable, rewarding, and inspiring as possible – while letting you experience the country in all its authentic magic. ✨

At Vacation India, all our tours are professionally managed. You will never be alone: our knowledgeable guides, expert drivers, and local colleagues are always at your side for any assistance. We remain in contact with our guests 24/7 throughout the trip – always just a message (SMS or WhatsApp) or a call away.

↳What Should I Carry for the Visit?
↳Train Journeys in India – A Window Into Everyday Life 🚆✨
↳Drivers and Road Travel in India – Take Your Travel by Road in the Right Spirit
↳Your First Journey – Airport to Your Hotel
↳Currency & Money Exchange
↳Credit Cards & ATM Services in India
↳Tipping
↳Food & Drink
↳Clothing
↳Health During Your Stay
↳Drinking Water during Your India Tour
↳Photography
↳Voltage
↳Laundry
↳Swimming
↳Safety – You and Your Valuables
↳Do Your Bit to Remain Comfortable during Air Travel
↳Tips to Enjoy a Seamless Hotel Stay

↳ What Should I Carry for the Visit? 🎒✈️

This is usually the first question travelers ask themselves before setting off to India. The golden rule? Travel light. Your bag should ideally weigh 15–20 kilograms (33–44 lb). A backpack or rolling suitcase works best – try to leave the XXL versions at home. On domestic flights in India, the allowance is generally 15 kg checked baggage plus 7 kg hand luggage. Need more? No problem –  No problem – additional baggage can easily be booked in advance for domestic flights.

During your overland journeys in India, we use spacious cars that can easily accommodate up to 2 XXL suitcases as well as 2 pieces of hand baggage, so you never have to worry about space for your luggage.

For day trips and sightseeing, carry a smaller daypack with essentials like water, your camera, sunscreen, and a scarf or shawl.
 

✅ Essential Travel Checklist

👉 Original passport with photocopies (front & back), air tickets, and travel insurance (not mandatory)

👉 Tourist visa Print Out (mandatory)  

👉 Credit/debit cards, travelers checks, and cash in USD or Euro (AUD, CHF, GBP, and UAE Dirhams are also widely accepted). All the major foreign currencies can be easily converted into Indian Rupees. You can exchange money at the airport upon arrival, or simply ask us to pre-arrange Indian Rupees for you in exchange for your foreign currency – so you start your journey without any hassle.

👉 Hotel vouchers + Safari Permits + all flight, train & cruise tickets from Vacation India (handed to you on arrival)

👉 Prescription medicines and a basic first aid kit (travel sickness, Acidity, anti-diarrhea, antibiotics, pain relief)

👉 Insect repellent (Odomos is a reliable local brand) and sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) – Odomos can be bought locally for about 30–40 cents per piece, while a good quality sunscreen costs around 3–5 USD. Simply ask your driver, guide, or travel advisor to arrange it for you, so you’re always protected.

👉 Warm clothing if traveling October–March (especially November–February in North India); no winter gear needed for South India, where it stays warm year-round

👉 Power bank & universal adapter (India uses 230V, plug types C, D, and M are common)

👉 Scarf or shawl (handy for temples, covering shoulders, or even as sun protection)

👟 Comfort & Safety Items

👉 Flat walking shoes, sandals, or sneakers (avoid heavy leather shoes – you’ll walk a lot at sprawling monuments)

👉 Day backpack for sightseeing

👉 Wet wipes, sanitiser, and tissues – indispensable on the go

👉 Flashlight / headlamp – handy for evening walks or in case of a power cut. That said, all the hotels we select for your trip – whether 5-star, 4-star, 3-star, or charming heritage stays – are well equipped and hardly ever experience outages. Still, carrying a small torch adds a touch of adventure and can be useful when exploring local streets or rural areas after dark. 🌙✨

👉 Sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunblock (minimum 30 SPF)

👉 Earplugs & eye mask – useful for trains or flights

👉 Swimwear & quick-dry towel for hotels and beaches

👉 Women’s sanitary products (may not always be easy to find outside major cities)

👉 Light cotton shorts & trousers, plus loose long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection

👉 Tracksuit or hiking pants if you’re trekking in the Himalayas or national parks

👉 Hand sanitizer spray (small travel-size bottles)

👉 Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM (optional, but handy if you want reliable internet everywhere) – Most of the hotels we use offer free Wi-Fi in your room. Just ask for the password at check-in. During your journeys across India, Wi-Fi can often be accessed through your driver’s hotspot as well. If you prefer mobile data, SIM cards are easily available at most international airports. We can even arrange a pre-activated India SIM for you in advance – it costs around 25 USD, includes 2 GB of data per day plus free calling, and remains valid for 30 days. 📶📱

✨ Extra Pro-Tips

👉 Snacks for the road: Pack some energy bars, nuts, or packaged cakes – especially useful on long train journeys.

👉 Padlocks & luggage straps: For securing your bag during overnight train journeys.

👉 Carry books on Indian travel & culture – Perfect for long road journeys or train rides. Reading about the country’s history, traditions, and stories while you travel adds depth to your experience and makes the landscapes outside your window come alive. 📚🚆

👉 Reusable shopping bag: Great for markets, eco-friendly, and lightweight.

↳ Train Journeys in India – A Window Into Everyday Life 🚆✨

If you’d like to experience India the way locals do, alongside its dynamic middle class, share conversations over a cup of chai, and watch the Indian countryside unfold in all its colors, then nothing compares to a journey by train. For travelers, the railways are not just a means of transportation – they are a cultural experience, a moving snapshot of India itself.

Booking is surprisingly straightforward. Tickets can be reserved online through the official Indian Railways IRCTC website, where seat availability is updated in real time. A printed e-ticket isn’t even required – simply show your email confirmation, a confirmation on WhatsApp, or an SMS to the ticket checker. For those who prefer, tickets can also be purchased in person at reservation counters in stations across the country. And if you’re traveling with Vacation India, all your train tickets are already included in your package and will be handed over upon arrival – stress-free and seamless.

Finding the right platform, locating your coach, and settling into your reserved seat can be challenging for first-time travelers. That’s why a VacationIndia.com colleague will personally assist you at the station, guiding you to the correct platform and ensuring you are seated comfortably in the right compartment. When you arrive at your destination, you won’t have to worry either – as soon as you step off the train, your driver or colleague will be waiting with a paging card bearing your name. This is how effortless train travel becomes when you book an India tour package with Vacation India.

India proudly operates the largest railway network in the world. While it may not be the most organized, its vast reach is unmatched – connecting remote villages, bustling towns, and mega-cities across more than 68,000 kilometers of track. This makes the train one of the best and most affordable ways to explore the country. For locals, trains are the heartbeat of daily life – fast, inexpensive, and reliable.

Every day, more than 12,617 trains run, carrying an astonishing 25 million passengers – about 1.8% of India’s population – to their destinations. With over 7,000 stations, the network never sleeps. And with a workforce of around 1.5 million employees, Indian Railways isn’t just the world’s biggest rail system – it’s also the largest employer on the planet.

Beyond numbers, it’s the atmosphere that makes rail travel unforgettable. The sound of vendors calling “chai, chai, garam chai!”, the camaraderie between passengers, and the changing landscapes – from lush rice fields to arid plains – make every ride a story in itself.

👉 Some routes have even become legendary, such as the Rajdhani Express, the luxurious Palace on Wheels, the Shatabdi Express, and the modern Vande Bharat Express trains that showcase India’s rapid progress. Whether you choose a short ride to feel the pulse of the people, or an overnight journey across states, the railways promise adventure, authenticity, and memories you’ll treasure forever.

 
VacationIndia Makes Train Travel Comfortable 🚆✨
 

At VacationIndia, we go the extra mile to make your train journeys in India as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

For overnight journeys, we book you into either AC First Class or AC 2-Tier coaches – all of which are fully air-conditioned and equipped with full-size sleeping berths, ensuring you can stretch out and enjoy a safe, restful journey on the rails.  Passengers are provided with pillows, blankets, and bedcovers free of charge.

For shorter daytime journeys, such as on the Vande Bharat or Shatabdi Express, we use AC Chair Car seats in the Executive Compartment – often referred to as Business Class seats – offering extra comfort, wider legroom, and superior service.

At every station, our trusted colleague will personally assist you — from guiding you to the correct platform to helping you board the right coach — and another colleague will be waiting for you upon arrival to pick you up. Indian railway stations can often feel crowded and confusing, and finding your reserved coach in the limited boarding time can be challenging. But with our professional assistance, you do not need to worry about a thing. We will take care of all the details, making your train journeys smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable.

👉 AC First Class (AC1): The most exclusive option on Indian trains, offering four berths in a private cabin with a sliding door that locks – perfect for those who appreciate comfort and privacy.

👉 AC 2-Tier: A spacious coach with four berths, each equipped with curtains for privacy. While less private than AC1, it provides a cozy and authentic experience, popular with seasoned travelers.

👉 AC Chair Car Executive (Business Class): The premium option for daytime journeys, with plush seats, generous space, and a more refined onboard experience.

There is also AC 3-Tier with six berths and no curtains, and the Sleeper Class, also with six berths but no air-conditioning. These can be crowded and lack privacy, so for longer trips we suggest sticking to AC First Class or AC 2-Tier.

With us, you don’t just book a train ticket – you get a seamless experience. Train journeys can be incorporated in almost all our India tour packages. Just ask us to include a train journey when you contact us to plan your India trip.
 

Toilets on Indian trains — what you should know 🚻💧🚾

 
For longer overnight journeys we book AC First Class or AC 2-Tier for your comfort — the toilets in these classes are generally good and perfectly usable for most travellers. Whenever possible we route you on Rajdhani services, whose washrooms have received targeted upgrades and tend to be cleaner and better maintained than many other long-distance trains.  

For shorter daytime routes such as Shatabdi and the modern Vande Bharat, onboard toilets are significantly better: these trains feature upgraded washroom fittings and, in the case of Vande Bharat, vacuum/bio-toilet technology and modern automatic fixtures that make them more hygienic and comfortable to use.  

A major improvement across the network has been the rollout of IR-DRDO bio-toilets (zero-discharge, bacteria-based digesters) in passenger coaches — Indian Railways has fitted hundreds of thousands of bio-digesters to reduce open discharge and improve track hygiene. These systems are now standard in most coaches and are an important step toward cleaner, more environmentally friendly onboard sanitation.

Maintenance and cleaning have also been stepped up: Indian Railways runs On Board Housekeeping Services (OBHS) on many premium trains (Rajdhani, Shatabdi and other important expresses) so toilets are periodically cleaned during the run, and there’s even a “Clean My Coach” facility on many routes where passengers can request immediate cleaning via SMS. These measures make a real difference on flagship services.

Practical tips for comfort and hygiene

      👉 Bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitiser / soap and a small pack of wet wipes — even on upgraded trains these items are useful.

      👉 Prefer AC First Class or AC 2-Tier on overnight trips when you want the most comfortable onboard toilet experience.

      👉 On shorter day runs, Executive/Chair Car on Shatabdi or Vande Bharat is a very good option — cleaner toilets, more space and better onboard services.

       👉 If you’re concerned about cleanliness, ask your VacationIndia colleague to book you on trains with OBHS and to note the cleaning facilities on that service; we can also prioritise Rajdhani/Shatabdi/Vande Bharat where feasible

Food Onboard – What to Expect & How We Make It Smooth 🥘🚆

Proper meals—breakfast, lunch, evening tea & snacks, and dinner—are served on flagship trains, and the cost is included in your train ticket. You don’t pay extra for these meals on trains like Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, Vande Bharat, Gatimaan Express etc. Expect simple but hearty meals – chapatis with chicken curry, dal (lentils), paneer dishes, mixed vegetables, rice, and yoghurt.

Free water bottles (Rail Neer or similar) are also provided on most flagship trains. Additional packaged water bottles can be bought on board for about ₹20 (≈ 25–30 US cents). Standard pricing for items on board is relatively modest: e.g. a 1-litre bottled water costs around ₹15-₹20, a standard tea or coffee is around ₹15–₹20.

Vendors also walk through the coaches selling chai, coffee, cold drinks, and snacks. Well-known brands like Lays potato crisps, Britannia biscuits and cakes, and Cadbury chocolates are widely available and safe for foreign travelers.

For trains that do not have dining cars or onboard meal service, don’t worry: you can order food online via apps (like IRCTC’s Food on Track, RailRestro, etc.) and have it delivered to your seat at your chosen station stop. When you book through VacationIndia.com, we ensure that if your train crosses breakfast, lunch, or dinner hours, food is arranged to be delivered to your seat in almost all trains.

We also recommend that before boarding your train, you pick up fresh fruits, packaged cakes, or snacks to keep on hand. Most railway stations sell branded food items such as chips, biscuits, cola, etc.

One tip: it’s generally safer to avoid fried foods sold at stations or on trains (like samosas, vada pav, pakoras) due to hygiene and freshness concerns.

Safety Tips

 
Trains in India are generally safe, even for solo travelers and women. At Vacation India, we only book AC First Class, AC 2-Tier, or Executive Class for your comfort and security. Still, it’s wise to take precautions:

👉 Secure your luggage with chains and padlocks (available at stations – your guide or driver can help)

👉 Keep valuables close to you at all times

👉 Stay alert when it’s time to get off, as stations can be busy

👉 AC coaches are patrolled 24/7 by railway police, providing an extra layer of security.

👉 Stay Alert When Using Toilets: Using toilets when the train is moving and not at a station (when safe) reduces risk of theft attempts.

👉 Know the Railway Helpline: Indian Railways operates a helpline: dial 139 for assistance or emergencies.

👉 Stay in Contact with Your Guide/Driver: Before boarding and after disembarkation, your VacationIndia.com local representative should stay in touch with you. This ensures prompt help if needed.

Luxury Train Journeys 🚂👑

 
For those who want to combine rail travel with absolute luxury, Vacation India also offers journeys on India’s legendary luxury trains. Step aboard the Palace on Wheels and travel through the royal landscapes of Rajasthan without the hassle of changing hotels each night. In the South, the Golden Chariot – Pride of South (Karnataka) and Golden Chariot – Jewels of South (Tamil Nadu & Kerala) take you to serene towns and hidden gems with spectacular palaces and temple architecture.

These all-inclusive luxury rail journeys start from around $3,600 per person for a week, covering meals and excursions (flights extra). They are perfect for those who want to experience India’s history and culture in style and comfort.

↳ Drivers and Road Travel in India – Take Your Travel by Road in the Right Spirit

With Vacation India, when you are on a road journey, we ensure that you travel in the comfort of modern sedan cars like Toyota Etios, Maruti Suzuki, Toyota Innova Crysta or in an air-conditioned minibus. If your group consists of more than five people, the air-conditioned Tempo Traveler is used. Whereas, if there are up to 4 people you will be transported in a roomy Toyota Innova. At Vacation India all our tours are private, and you have access to chauffeur driven cars. Taking a trip on the roads in India will be an adventure that will definitely spike your adrenaline levels. Although most of the major tourist cities in India are well connected with expressways and highways, traveling on the roads between small towns and in the cities is slow. When you drive in the cities, be cautious and move at an average speed of 40-50kph (30mph) because the roads are sometimes shared with pedestrians, animals, and huge vehicles. The average speed on highways is normally between 80 and 120 kph (50-75 mph)Traffic Rules: Don’t expect everyone to follow traffic rules and incessant honking is a part of road traffic in the country. Expect the streets to be in a helter skelter state and somewhat chaotic with beggars and sometimes even children, especially at the traffic lights in the cities. During night driving you’ll be amazed at the number of drivers who simply drive using high beams that blind you.

Travel Time: Expect even short distances to take quite a while. If you’re caught in the monsoon rains, or unpredicted traffic congestion it might take even longer. The secret is to keep calm and find humor in chaos.

Using Local Taxis: Rather than walking down the street and waving at taxis, have one booked through your hotel or through VacationIndia.com. Alternatively, you can use the services of aggregators like Ola or Uber through your smart phone by downloading the app. If you have to take a taxi on the road, go to the nearest taxi stand as only registered ones will be parked there. Keep your belongings by your side and luggage on the seat.

If you decide to go downtown, it’s a good idea to walk with a card from your hotel to assist the drivers who may be having difficulty understanding English.

On the plus side, at Vacation India you’ll be in the safe hands of an experienced driver who knows the “real” traffic rules of India. You can feel confident with our drivers as they are very cautious, honest and polite. We ensure that they receive training on how to drive with sense and not follow the bad local habit of blowing their horn all the time. The important thing is to enjoy the surroundings as you drive through the countryside while not letting the traffic snarls bother you.

If you want to make contact with our travel expert, our drivers are equipped with mobile phones, and they would be delighted to assist you. Unfortunately, you will seldom find drivers in India who have a sound knowledge of the English language and so they cannot have a long conversation with you in English. However, they do have enough knowledge to help you with the basic needs like meals, stops for pictures, shopping or comfort stops. Remember, in India the drivers, guides and representatives perform different roles and are not replacements for each other!

If you wish, you can buy local an Indian prepaid SIM card for calling purpose. Kiosks of national operators like BSNL, Jio, Airtel or Vodafone can be easily found at arrival terminals of all the international airports of India. Our airport representative can assist you in buying a SIM. If you forget to buy a SIM at the airport, do not worry, our driver or guide will help you buy one from the local market on the next day of your trip. The cost of a SIM card includes unlimited free calling within India and around 1-2 GB data per day. If you want to use an Indian SIM card for your mobile phone, you must confirm with your own country’s provider that your phone is unlocked.

When you decide to go on your local excursions and sight-seeing as per the itinerary remember that your driver is available for you. If you will require his assistance after your excursion, please make sure you inform him well in advance so he can make himself available. A daily allowance is given to the drivers for accommodation for every night of their trip. Some drivers may choose to stay at lodgings provided by the hotel that you are at, while others may go elsewhere. In that case it may take a little time for the driver to reach your hotel, so inform him well in advance if you require the car after the sightseeing hours. For example, if your sightseeing is done by 6 pm and you are back in the hotel to rest, but then decide to have dinner at 8 pm in a restaurant outside the hotel and you need a car for the transfer, please inform your driver or your Vacation India Travel expert at least half an hour beforehand. You can send an SMS or WhatsApp message or simply call. Today WhatsApp is commonly used and the best way to connect during your India tour.

At Vacation India, in case you want to visit a place not included in the itinerary (within the city limits), the driver and guide will never refuse to go or waste time trying to clear the trip with head office. We have instructed our drivers to change itineraries and adjust sightseeing timings according to the client’s wishes.

Please Note: Free extra kilometer services are not possible at some selected Indian destinations or itineraries. So please consult our travel advisor at the time of confirming the tour with us!

↳ Your First Journey – Airport to Your Hotel

All Vacation India Trips include private transfers to and from airports and railway stations, as well as the services of a company representative at airports and railway stations at all destinations in India. However, in some cases travelers book part of the services like hotel bookings or air tickets themselves instead of booking the complete tour package. For such cases, we have laid down certain tips for the travelers, so that they can arrange the transfers on their own!

You’ll be met by a frenzied crowd of touts and taxi drivers once you get out of the airport, and especially at railway stations in India. This can be quite intimidating. Here are a few tips to navigate through these chaotic situations.

Taxi at Airport: Upon landing at the airport, the most convenient way to reach your hotel is by taxi. Most airports have desks where you can pay in advance for taxis into town and avoid having to bargain. Use the one that’s managed by the Delhi Traffic Police in Delhi or Mumbai Traffic Police in Mumbai, as other similar prepaid taxi services might not be legitimate. There are some private taxi counters as well. Once you state your destination at the counter, you’ll be asked to pay a fixed amount in advance and be provided with a printed slip. You will give the printed slip to the driver of the designated taxi only once you reach your destination, even if the driver demands it beforehand. If the driver demands more money, stay calm and politely refuse. Of course, you can tip the driver once you reach the destination but that’s entirely up to you. Rupees 50-100 (USD 1-2) would be an ideal tip.

Tip: Many hotels can also arrange transfers and excursions using their own cars.

Taxi at Railway Station: To your utter surprise, you’ll find that the taxi stands at Indian railway stations teem with taxi drivers or tuk-tuk drivers who will surround you to offer their service. Politely refuse and head straight to the prepaid taxi counter.

Tackling the Touts: Touts are everywhere in the airport vicinity, even at hotel reservation counters. They’ll try and get you to book with them at all costs. The tout may even say that your booking is cancelled, and you’ll have to rebook. Simply ignore such touts. You don’t even have to strike up a conversation or reply to them.

Book an “Arrival Transfer” through VacationIndia: If you’re traveling in India for the first time, it’s highly recommended that you opt for our “Arrival Transfer Services.” You’ll find our representative waiting for you with a placard that has your name and our brand name “VacationIndia.com.” The representative will escort you to the taxi that we have already booked for you. All you need to do after your baggage claim is to look for our representative for a pleasant exit out of the airport. For any emergency or late arrival or flight delay you can email us at info@vacationindia.com or WhatsApp at our 24/7 Number: +91-99274-65808 or call us at our 24/7 Number +91-70600-09787

↳ Currency & Money Exchange

Notes in regular circulation are in denominations of rupees (INR) ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹500 & ₹2000. There are 100 paise in a rupee and there are coins of rupees 10, 5 or less, going down to 1 rupee.

Not every place you visit is going to accept plastic money, although most businesses accept Visa, Master and American Express credit cards. You might find some businesses that charge an extra 2 – 4% for the use of credit cards. It’s vital that you carry some cash with you. You will find ATMs all over the country, so it’s not going to be a major issue. However, we recommend that you carry some cash along with travelers check in US dollars. There are several private money exchanges throughout the urban areas that will readily accept all major foreign currencies like US dollars, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, euros, pound sterling, etc. We advise you to check the prevailing exchange rates online before conversion. Currently, one USD equates to roughly rupees 75 (June 2022)
 

Exchanging Travelers Checks or Currency into Indian Rupees?

Exchanging currency could be a time-consuming job during your India Tour. At Vacation India, we have instructed our guides and drivers to assist our clients in getting their currency exchanged into Indian rupees (INR). You will be taken to the right place, where you get the best possible exchange rate.

✔We recommend our clients to exchange money at private firms as exchanging money through Indian banks could be a long-drawn-out process

✔Always have a photocopy of your passport and visa ready at the time of exchanging the currency. You might be asked for it

✔Always ask for the receipt or invoice for the currency exchanged, especially if you have any reservations pertaining to the transaction

✔You may also do currency exchange at the airport at the time of your arrival. Exchange rates at airports are quite low, so you may choose to rather exchange your money in a local exchange shop

✔If you wish to have Indian currency on your arrival in India, just let us know in advance. Our representative or driver will provide you with Indian currency on your arrival when you give him the equivalent foreign currency.

Please inform your Vacation India travel advisor well in advance!

↳ Credit Cards & ATM Services in India

There’s no doubt that credit cards are both safe and convenient, especially during your exploration of big cities in India. All hotels with star ratings of 3 and higher, big malls and shopping centers, large restaurants, supermarkets, and even retailers readily accept foreign credit cards. The same is not true when it comes to smaller cities where acceptance of credit cards is fairly low, compelling you to carry some cash while traveling there.

ATMs conveniently handle this problem, especially when you travel abroad. ATMs are found all over India. Even rural areas have ATMs, although they are fewer in number. In India, there is a limit to the amount that you can withdraw from an ATM in 24 hours. The amount can range anywhere between INR 10,000 and 25,000. A surcharge of 2% to 3% is also charged on each transaction.

Some tips for using ATMs:

✔Always enter the booth alone

✔When you withdraw cash, conceal your pin number while keying it in the machine

✔Count the cash before you exit the ATM booth. The road is not the place to count your cash as you may attract undue attention

✔To remain safe, withdraw money during the daytime. If you are obliged to withdraw money during the night, choose a bright spot

✔At Vacation India our drivers and guides are ready to locate the ATM, if you need any cash withdrawal.

↳ Tipping

Even though we feel that you can tip as an expression of gratitude and appreciation for a job well done, and although it is a practice long accepted in India, we also do not want you to feel obligated to do so. We are sure that our drivers and guides will provide you with the best quality service at all times, for which you may be happy to tip them. However, at Vacation India we do not mandate that tipping for any of our services is compulsory; the choice is always yours.

✔For waiters: 5% of the total billed amount is considered ideal. At the time of paying the bill, please check for Service Charge (not GST, goods or service tax, which goes to the government) included in the bill. If you find that there is a service charge of 5-10% on the restaurant bill, then you are NOT required to pay any extra amount as tip

✔For drivers: This tip is for the entire group and not per person. For a half-day service rupee 200-300 (USD 3 to USD 5) and rupees 500-1000 (USD 8 – USD 12) for a full day. If you’ve engaged the driver for multiple days, rupees 600-900 per day (USD 8-12) would be ideal

✔For local guides: This tip is per group and not per person. A tip that ranges between rupees 250 to 500 for half a day and 500 to 1000 (USD 7-14) for a full day is adequate. The tip should depend on how knowledgeable and communicative the guide is

✔Porters, coolies at railway stations and bell boys in hotels: Rupees 50 for each bag

✔Beggars: Avoid giving them money but if you have to, don’t exceed rupees 5-10

✔Sadhus and swamis (religious ascetic or holy person): If you wish to photograph yourself with them give rupees 20. Else, you don’t require to give them any money

✔Shoe handlers outside religious places: Pay a maximum of rupees 20 for 2-3 persons together; most display the costs

✔Pay to use toilets: Price is usually displayed and must not exceed rupees 10-20. Please note that in monuments and restaurants you don’t need to pay any person for the use of toilets. It’s free of charge

✔Temple offerings: Not compulsory, but if you wish, anything between rupees 10 to 20 would suffice. Moreover, never give any money to temple priests. If you want to donate some money as temple offerings, there is always a donation box in every temple

✔Representative of your travel agency: The representatives of Vacation India who assist you with boarding at the railway station, on arrival in the airport or check-in at the hotels, may be tipped anywhere between 200-400 rupees (USD 3-6) for two clients traveling together

✔Tuk-tuk or cycle rickshaw: Rupees 20 to 100 depending on the travel experience and time taken

If you still find yourself wondering how much to tip, feel free to consult our travel advisor or your accompanying guide for advice!

↳ Food & Drink

India’s cuisine is quite varied and does so according to the particular region. Generally speaking, however, fresh wheat breads, rice, vegetables, paneer (fresh cottage cheese), chicken & mutton, aromatic spices and pulses are used throughout the country. During your India Tour in places like Agra, Rajasthan and New Delhi in the north, you will find heavier, thicker and richer curries, with meat, including the popular lamb and chicken. On the other hand, when you venture south in the tropics, tamarind and coconuts can often be found in several dishes and seafood is a favorite.

Vegetarians have very little to worry about when it comes to meals, as they are well catered for in India. However, vegans should note that ghee which is clarified butter is used in many dishes. Normally dishes and curries in good restaurants including restaurants in 5 star hotels are prepared in refined oils and absolutely safe to consume. Butter is also used in many dishes like Dal Makhani (lentil curry) and Butten Chicken).

While in India, it is a good idea to eat meals that are freshly prepared. Truth is that in the smaller towns you really have little choice but to eat at your hotel restaurant with the exception of a few local places to eat. Our drivers and guides will always help you to choose the best restaurant for your meals.

If you love strong beverages, then Indian beer, gin, whiskey and rum are fine. However, we do not recommend that you buy local country/rural liquor. Where there is wine available it can be quite expensive, so before you place your order it’s a good idea to check the price. Indian wines like Sula, Grover La Reserve, Vallonne etc. starts at rupees 700 ($10) and goes up to rupees 3500 ($50). In a restaurant the same wine may cost 2-3 times more. You will also find that imported liquor is very pricey.

The immune system of Indians is considered stronger than that of westerners owing to the environment that they live in. In other words, food that might not make an Indian sick might make someone from the western countries extremely sick. So, exercise caution before consuming street food. Street food is delicious if you buy from places that are popular, where you can see the food being cooked and coming out of the pans, etc. Very few westerners seem to do it and they are missing out on lovely grub! We recommend you try the popular street food joints in Old Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata for an authentic local cuisine experience.

Tip: Eat moderately for the first few days. Allow your system to get used to the changes!

↳ Clothing

The attire you wear in India will be primarily determined by the local culture and weather! Generally, the dress code in the hotels in India are not strict; even the ones that are exclusive. They allow you to dress in an elegantly casual manner in the restaurants.

For your comfort we recommend that you wear cottons that are light and easy to wear and of course a good pair of airy comfortable walking shoes. Closed shoes are better because sandals tend to leave your feet dusty and can cause the pebbles on the streets to irritate your skin. Don’t forget your cotton socks, a pair of sunglasses and a shady hat for sight-seeing.

Take note that when you are visiting some of the attractions like temples, mosques and monuments you should try to avoid wearing tops without sleeves and short skirts. In some instances, you may also be asked to take off your shoes; in such cases socks come in handy because by afternoon the stony walkways of some of the monuments can be extremely hot.

In Northern India, including Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan, you will find that at night and early in the morning the temperatures are pretty low, particularly throughout the months of November through February. It can reach as low as freezing point, therefore make sure that you have the appropriate clothing to keep you warm. We recommend you carry a pair of woolen gloves, jackets and sweaters. Thermal wear is most comfortable.

If your travel includes arid place and coastal areas like Mumbai and Goa, including all destinations in South India, we recommend light cotton clothes. Warm clothes are not required on your travel to South India at any time of the year.

Not many heritage hotels in the middle-range or forest lodges have central heating, so travel with sleeping clothes that would keep you comfortable and warm. Wearing slippers indoors is advised as the floors may not be carpeted, although heaters are provided in most of the budget hotels.

In mid-winter it is usually snowy in the majority of the hill stations including Shimla, Mussoorie, Kashmir Leh & Ladakh (The Himalayas), Darjeeling and Manali, and the hill regions are quite cold.

When you are visiting the wildlife parks you may have to dress in different layers of clothing. In the early morning it can be very cold on the game drives in the open back vehicles, so you will need your mittens, mufflers, and different layers of clothing. However, as the day heats up you can adjust the clothing to suit the weather.

The type of shoes you wear in India is very important. We recommend those that are sturdy and comfortable, given the fact that most of the time the ground is dusty, dirty, rocky, and rugged. Avoid wearing leather shoes or shoes with high heels. As you need to walk a lot in monuments and during sightseeing, comfortable sport or casual shoes will be ideal. In some instances, flat sandals are preferred because they give your feet good ventilation in the hot and humid weather of India.

Dress according to Indian sensibilities: Urban areas or cities like Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai are less conservative; however, you’ll be more comfortable avoiding low-cut shorts, miniskirts, ripped cloths, and tank tops. Ideal attire for women is loose, non-revealing cloths. You could opt for Indian salwar kameez, which is a combination of trousers and tunic top in the Indian style. If you still choose to go with revealing clothing, know that you will not be allowed inside sacred places, which are often centuries old. In essence, you’d be missing a great visual treat and spiritual experience. Cotton shirts, t-shirts, trousers and tops are ideal.

↳ Health During Your Stay

Your government would have already issued some health and safety guidelines.

We hope that you have followed the recommended health precautions, which include having the relevant vaccinations and prophylactics for malaria (if required). We bring you certain tips and suggestion in conjunction to those.

Corona vaccination certificate is mandatory to travel to India and should be uploaded to government’s Air Suvidha Portal along with other personal details before taking flight to India.

Meds: Ensure that you are up to date with your immunizations and health checkup. It’s advisable to carry a first-aid kit. If you are on any regular medication, please bring it along as sometimes we travel deep into the heart of India where medical facilities are not as accessible as they are in urban areas. The pharmacies in India may not sell the same brand of medicines that are sold in the West. Therefore, bring the medicine formula and your doctor’s prescription along. In case of any emergency, doctor’s services are available at most of the tourist destinations in India. Vacation India provides full support to our travelers in case of any emergency. Also consider buying health travel insurance, if possible.

↳ Drinking Water during Your India Tour

Insist on bottled water and check the max retail price on the bottle. If a higher price is demanded, move on to the next store. Completely refrain from drinking water from taps, wells, or glasses served in hotels. The only places that you can drink water from a glass are 4 or 5-star hotels. Famous brands in India are Himalaya (most expensive), Aquafina (Pepsi), Kinley (Coca Cola), Bailey and Bisleri (trusted Indian brands). Don’t buy the brands other than mentioned here. Completely avoid using ice from outside. Using ice in hotels is safe.

At Vacation India, we provide sealed bottles of drinking water of reputed brand names in the car for our clients at absolutely no charge!

Most of the 3-5 star hotels including heritage hotels provide two complimentary 500 ml water bottles per room every day.

↳ Photography

Normally there is no fee for taking cameras into monuments, but some monuments like the Jama Mosque in Delhi charge a fee for cameras. Video cameras have a fee around 50 cents in most of the monuments. In some private monuments it is higher. The camera and video camera fees are not included in your tour price, and you have to pay directly at the point of entry. Our guides will facilitate the payment on your behalf. Tripods are not allowed in any of the monuments of India managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. But in some cases, prior permission can be acquired from the local office of Archaeological Survey of India. In most Hindu, Sikh, and Jain temples, photography is not allowed at all. Please ask your accompanying guide or driver for more information, when visiting any religious place in India.

↳ Voltage

The electric voltage in India is 220 volts. Most English electric appliances work well in India but a universal adapter is needed. This can be bought in India and should also be available at the airport you fly from.

↳ Laundry

While most hotels offer laundry facilities/services at a small extra charge, you might be put up in hotels in some places where this facility is not offered. We urge you to bring along a non-polluting/biodegradable detergent or soap for this purpose.

↳ Swimming

Please note that modesty, even around swimming pools is much appreciated in India. Topless swimming or sun-bathing or very revealing swimwear may cause offense and should be avoided. Please note that due to the cool nighttime temperatures from November to February, most hotel swimming pools in the north will not be comfortable for swimming. Some high-end 5-star hotels have heated swimming pools. For those visiting South India and especially the coastal states of Goa and Kerala (Mararikulam Beach and Kovalam Beach), many beach areas do offer swimming opportunities. However please be very careful about local swimming conditions as most beaches are not properly patrolled and undertows, rips or other dangerous currents may occur.

Tip: Topless swimming or sun-bathing is not allowed on Indian beaches. Refrain from wearing very revealing swimwear to avoid any undue attraction.

↳ Safety – You and Your Valuables

We urge all travelers to take their respective government advice seriously. The governments all over the world maintain updated information on their websites.

Valuables: Typically, your valuable items would include cash, debit/credit cards, travelers’ checks, passport, and airline tickets. We advise you to keep them safe in a neck or waist purse. Jewelry is best left behind to avoid the burden of guarding additional valuables. Any valuables that you may have can be safely deposited in the hotel room as most hotels have safety deposit boxes in the rooms.

Personal time and exploration: You will have leisure time during the trip which you can use for personal exploration of the area or to simply relax. Cities in your itinerary are considered generally safe both during day and night. However, to veer towards caution, we suggest moving in groups and making use of taxis for moving around. Avoid roaming at night!

Adventure: Adventure activities (like elephant rides, camel rides, tuk-tuk rides, Jeep safaris in national parks, etc.) may be a part of your package. We urge you to exercise caution during these activities and remain safe by adhering to the instructions provided by the experts who will guide you through them. At Vacation India, we make prudent decisions to keep you safe at all times.

Water sports and boat rides: Be attentive during the safety briefings, so that you’re prepared for an emergency. If the briefing says “wear your life jacket” do so. It’s wise to keep one hand free so that you can hold on to something. Remember that water is highly reflective, so apply copious amounts of sun protection. If you are a person who gets seasick, have meds handy.

Your documents: Back up all the vital documents (passports and visas) with photocopies and have a scanned copy emailed to yourself. Having a backup makes it easy to get a replacement for your documents through your embassy in case you lose them.

Insurance: Prepare yourself financially for any eventuality with travel insurance and travel cancellation insurance. Remember, every eventuality starts with “I never expected…” So prepare for unforeseen circumstances.

↳ Do Your Bit to Remain Comfortable during Air Travel

In-flight briefing is perhaps the most ignored safety aspect of a flight and we urge our travelers to pay attention. You need to know how to exit quickly and safely during an incident. In an emergency, the visibility and lighting might not be optimal; so, it’s wise to count the number of rows to the emergency exit.

Consuming too much alcohol is never a good idea. For one, it takes away the joy of sightseeing in the early morning hours. Also, since the cabins are pressurized, the alcohol might have a stronger effect than usual. Listen to the flight attendants and fasten your seat-belt to keep yourself safe.

↳ Tips to Enjoy a Seamless Hotel Stay

Hotels are generally considered safe in India. The hotels usually maintain high standards of hygiene and offer excellent service. Here are a few tips that will make you feel more secure

✔Don’t let your bags out of sight until they are ferried from the taxi/bus to the hotel lobby

✔Even in the lobby, keep an eye on your luggage, especially if it’s pretty crowded

✔Lock your doors after entering your room

✔Know all the internal numbers (reception, housekeeping, restaurant, etc.) of the hotel, including the emergency number

✔To avoid misplacing your key, place it in one specific place every time in every hotel room you stay in

✔If you are provided with a non-slip mat for the bath, make use of it

✔Most of the hotels provide 2 complimentary bottles of water in the room every day. If you are staying more than one night, do not forget to get it replenished every day.