IMPORTANT - Follow Domestic Travel Guidelines
Some countries have released there own guidelines for indian travellers . Please go through these guidelines carefully before planning your travel, for a hassle free experience .
Guidelines for Travel:
India is an exotic amalgamation of different people, languages, cultures, traditions and places. It excels as a tourist destination, enthralling visitors from far and near.
Majestic mountain peaks, quiet plains, mystic rivers, sandy beaches, heritage architecture, pilgrim centers… India has it all.
Many of the popular Indian tourist destinations are well kept and easy to navigate. However, if you’re visiting India from another country, there are some important things you should keep in mind.
Research for the destinations `
No travel plan can be executed well without considerable research. While there must be room for adventure and spontaneity, it’s advisable to find out more about where you’re headed and what you’re going to do there.
Keep a running list of the places you want to visit, what the weather will be like, how long you’ll be spending at each destination and how you will be commuting. If possible, you can even look up local maps, travel guides or install some travel apps so you’re better prepared for the trip.
Be Adaptable to the Climate
The weather in India varies from place to place. You can expect it to be chilly in the hill stations, and humid in the coastal areas. Summers are quite dry but you can expect heavy downpours during the rainy season.
Make sure you pack clothes and accessories based on the climate of the place you’re visiting. You can wear light clothes for warmer temperatures, but be prepared to add a couple of extra layers if you’re travelling to cold destinations.
Stay at Reputed Hotels
While booking hotels, especially in remote places, make sure they have a good rating online. You can look up the user reviews and browse through travelers’ photographs to get a better idea of the place you’re considering for your stay.
Some of the parameters you must look for in a decent hotel are: hygiene, guest relations, proximity to nearest bus/train station or airport, cab availability, restaurant quality and ease of access.
Watch What You Consume
Indian food is traditionally rich in oils and spices. If you have a sensitive stomach, it’s best to avoid hot curries and opt for boiled/steamed food items. Many hotels serve exclusively vegetarian food, which can be quite a treat for your taste buds. There may be restrictions on the type of meat served depending on the place you are visiting, but the native spread will more than make up for it.
To quench your thirst, opt for bottled water or juice packs that would be more hygienic. While out traveling, carry packaged snacks with you or select restaurants that have a good rating online. Within a couple of days, you’ll get a hang of the food habits of the region and you can experiment a wider range of cuisines.
Remain Vigilant at all Times
In most countries, tourists are easy to spot and are vulnerable targets. It’s required that you remain cautious of your surroundings so you aren’t taken for a ride. It is recommended that you dress modestly in India so you can blend in with the culture that is largely conservative.
Some of the main tourist areas may be quite crowded, so make sure you always have an eye on your belongings. Avoid staying out late as much as possible and try to get back to your hotel on time. It’s also advisable that you keep away from suspicious people, who make deceptive claims or guilt trip you into buying things you don’t really need.
Travel as Light as You Can
The best way to navigate the crowds and traffic in India is by traveling light. Keep a small bag handy with necessary medication, a little cash, your cards, your passport and ID cards. But apart from that, everything else can be purchased as and when you need it.
You can make use of the safe-deposit boxes in the hotel where you’re staying so you don’t have to lug your valuables around. ATMs are available almost everywhere so you can withdraw cash only when you need it. Most establishments also prefer cashless transactions, so you can use your cards or e-wallets to settle bills.
Prepare to be Blown Away
For all that’s been said about India being loud, noisy and crowded, there certainly isn’t another country in the world quite like it. While it’s good to take precautions and be careful while traveling, you must also keep an open mind and be ready for adventure.
It’s not just a particular tourist destination in India that will enthrall you — it’s the entire journey. Through your travels, you will experience a mix of both India’s urban existence and the rugged village life. You will be blown away by the unique sights, sounds, smells and tastes of incredible India.
If you’re looking for an ethnic escapade like nothing you’ve ever seen, you won’t be disappointed on your trip to India! Hope the tips shared in this article have been helpful for your upcoming trip… Have a great time!