India: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

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About India

Overview

The Republic of India in South Asia is the 7th largest country and the 2nd most populated democracy in the world. With its diverse landscape, colorful festivals and unique cuisine, India is one of the world’s most fascinating countries; where cows are considered sacred and have the right of way on crowded streets and where more than 300,000 mosques across the country can be seen in some of the most beautiful architecture in the world. India is also home to the world's highest railway bridge, Chenab Bridge, at 1,178 feet above the Chenab river. 

 

 

Capital City: New Delhi

Population: 1.42 Billion (2022 est.)

Currency: Indian Rupee (symbol: ₹; code: INR)

Time Zone: India Standard Time (GMT+5:30)

Emergency Number: 112

Outlet: Types C, D & M

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Packing List

Speak the Language

Language: The Constitution of India has stipulated the usage of Hindi and English to be the two official languages of communication for the national government.

 

  • Hello - नमस्ते (Namaste)
  • Goodbye - अलविदा  (Alavida)
  • Thank you - धन्यवाद (Dhanyavaad)
  • Do you speak English? - क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं  (Kya aap angrezee bolate hain)
  • How are you? - क्या हाल है (Kya haal hai)
  • I’m fine, thank you - मैं ठीक हूं धन्यवाद (Main theek hoon dhanyavaad)
  • What’s your name? -  आपका क्या नाम है (Aapaka kya naam hai)
  • My name is… - मेरा नाम है.. (mera naam hai..)
  • Where is... -  कहाँ है.. (kahaan hai..)

                    - The bathroom -बाथरूम. (baatharoom)

                    - An ATM - एटीएम (eteeem)

 

Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click here  

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Culture Notes

  • When visiting temples or entering an Indian home, remove footwear and hats. Dress conservatively in a way that expresses respect for the place of worship or household.
  • Avoid touching people with the left hand, as it is considered unclean and will cause insult. Keep this in mind and use your right hand when giving or accepting any object. To use both hands is even more respectful.
  • Never point with your index finger, particularly at sacred items or paintings. Instead, motion with your chin or extend your hand, palm flat and skyward, at the object you’re referencing.
  • Leather articles such as wallets, belts and bags are prohibited inside many Hindu temples. Be cognizant that these are sacred places where people come to pay their respects and recognize that photography may be inappropriate.
  • In many Hindu temples, non-Hindus are not allowed to walk inside certain parts of the temple complex.
  • Dress modestly. Women, in particular, should avoid revealing clothing. This means no sleeveless or low-cut shirts or tank tops, and no shorts. Make sure your knees are covered.

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: In India, tips, typically referred to as baksheesh, are mostly optional. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Guides USD $9-13 per person/per day
Drivers USD $7-10 per person/per day
Restaurants  USD 10% of total bill, given directly to the wait staff

 

FAQ

Where can I find information on travel safety? Check out the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

 

Is the water safe to drink? Tap water should be avoided by travelers. You should also avoid brushing your teeth with tap water when possible. For drinking water, a water bottle with a filter or purification tablets is recommended.

 

Do I need a Visa? For Visa information, click here. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you return home and has two or more blank pages. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.

 

What about vaccines? For vaccination information, click here. 

 

Do you recommend travel insurance? While not required, we highly recommend all travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown! Check out travel insurance options from our partner, worldnomads.com or from a provider of your choice.

 

How much should I pack? As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible. Please review our luggage restrictions below.

 

What does public transportation look like? Buses carry more than 90 percent of public transport in Indian cities. Most Indian cities have no rail transport and rely instead on a combination of buses, minivans, auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis.

 

Is Uber or Lyft available? Yes, both companies are available in larger cities, such as Delhi.

Luggage Restrictions

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