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Tips To Travel India
You need to have a passport that is valid for atleast six months from date of departure. Also, you would be required to submit two or three latest photographs of yours while filling the visa application.
The visa is usually valid for six months, though it may also depend on the rules of your resident country.
You may apply for a collective visa if you are traveling in a group of not less than 4 people and are being dealt by a recognized travel agency.
The visa fees are usually non-refundable and may change without prior notice. Contact your embassy for further details.
Tourist Visa - In case you are touring India.
Student Visa - Given to students coming to India for studies.
Employment Visa - Given to professionals coming to work in India.
Transit Visa - For passengers who have to go through India to some other destination.
Missionary Visa - For those who have to India as missionaries.
Business Visa - Issued to those who have come to India on business purpose.
Journalist Visa - Issued to journalists and photographers who come for professional purpose.
Research Visa - Issued for professionals who for research work.
Indian Money
The currency in India is known as Rupee. Indian money comes in the denominations of Re.1, Rs.2, Rs.5, Rs.10, Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000. coins of Re.1, Rs.2 and Rs.5 are also easily available as loose change. One rupee is further divided into 100 paise. Now a days, paises are hardly used though they are available in the denominations of 10p, 25p and 50p. Money exchange in India is a cumbersome job so it is advisable that you approach a known name and convert a substantial amount of money.
Money Exchange in India
Travelers' cheques are not accepted at every bank. Approach a well-known bank.
Dollar and Pounds are much easily accepted than other currencies.
Always approach a certified and recognized bureau for exchanging money. Exchanging any place else is not only illegal, you also run the risk of getting fake currency.
It is better if you fill a declaration form as soon as you enter the country so as to avoid any kind of confusion later.
Save all exchange receipts (encashment certificates) as it may be required if you want to apply for visa extensions, or while going back.
You can get money exchange services at airports and they are open round the clock.
Some five stars hotels also have this facility. If not, there are lots of recognized international money exchange centers in big cities.
India Travel Advice
Any person traveling to India must be having mixed feelings about the trip. Though India is an extremely hospitable country, sadly there are some anti-social elements who will do anything to degrade this image. However, check out India travel advice if you want to thoroughly enjoy your trip. These tips to travel in India will be quite handy in your trip. You will have a general idea about what to expect and what not to. Go through India travel advice given below.
Most Indians are warm people and ready to help whenever the need be. But still, exercise caution and stay away from over friendly strangers.
Trust your instinct if you feel something is not right while traveling.
Do not depend on strangers to book tickets for you. Contact a recognized travel agency.
Do not carry huge sums of money with you and flash it in public.
Dress up in a way that you don't hurt the Indian sensibilities. You will end inviting unwanted attention.
Avoid confronting anyone with physical violence. India is a peace loving country and violent acts can invite the fury of the Indians.
While visiting a place of worship, make sure you remove your footwear. Some places might also require you to cover your head.
Stay in a recognized hotel. India has a number of 5 star and 4 star hotels to suit your taste and budget.
Carry your medicines and other medical requirements with yourself always. You never know when it may come handy.
Keep all your important documents and money safely and never leave valuables unattended.
India Travel Insurance
Most tourists forget that insurance is an important requirement while visiting any country. Insurance for traveling in India is a must and as important as traveling to any other country. One can always claim insurance in case of an emergency. It relieves the tension of financial crunch during the time of an emergency. Read on further for tips on travel insurance for India.
Check your travel insurance papers if they offer medical coverage in case of an untoward incident in a foreign land.
Most hospitals in India do not treat foreign nationals if they do not have proper medical insurance.
Affordability is a major concern. Though most medical help in India is affordable, it depends on the intensity of the emergency as to how much treatment is needed. In all good and reputed hospitals, it may reach a high amount.
It also acts as an additional security in case of flight cancellation, damaged or lost baggage, illness, etc.
Climate of India
Indian weather and climate conditions are very diverse and can reach extremes. The climate of India is essentially a temperate one. India lies to the north of Equator, so the southern part of India is usually much warmer than the rest of India. Also, water bodies flank India on three sides thus giving the peninsular region a maritime climate. The weather of India changes every now and then thus giving the people the much-needed relief from the extreme weather conditions. Check out the main seasons of India and decide when is the best time for your visit.
Summer Season
The duration of summer in India is from March to June. It is mildly pleasant in March, a bit uncomfortable in April, hot in May and scorching in June. The temperature in the plains of northern India can go upto 45o Celsius. The southern region is equally hot. This is the time when people pack their bags and head off to the hills and valleys where it is relatively cooler.
Monsoons
The Monsoon season in India usually lasts from the month of June to that of September. During this time, most of the areas in the country get their share of rainfall, which leaves a hue of greenery in its wake. The South West Monsoon enters India through the coast of Kerala and Andaman & Nicobar Islands and passing through Mumbai, central India and eastern India, reaches other parts of North and N West India. During the months of October to November, some parts of South India experience rains in the form of the northeast monsoon.
Winter Season
The winters in India can get really chilly. It becomes bone chilling during the months of November to February. The northern part of India experiences harsh weather conditions with cold wave sweeping almost entire northern regions and central parts of India. The hilly areas experience sub-zero temperature conditions.
Best Time to Visit India
India is a country with such diverse climates and weather conditions that almost each season has its own extremes and pleasant times. India is forever thronged by tourists irrespective of the weather conditions thus making it even more difficult to decide the peak season for India travel. The best time to visit India is, well, throughout the year! However, read on further to know about the diverse weather conditions in India to decide when to visit India.
Usually people visit India during the months of September to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect to roam around. However, the months of December and January can be bone chilling so it is advised that you carry woolens with you. September is usually the time when it stops pouring in most of India and the weather is pleasant, though a bit humid. The southern part of India experiences winter monsoons so it is pouring out there in the months of November and December. The south of India hardly experiences any winter. The weather is warm and may get slightly chilly in the night.
The months of April to August are usually scorching hot. The heat can get unbearable at times. Yet tourists throng India and visit the hill stations where it is relatively cooler and much more scenic. The monsoons last from July to September and it can get messy in the plains with puddles everywhere. Now that you have an overview of the major weather conditions in India, take your time and decide when would you like to visit this diverse country.
Airports in India
Tourists visiting India should have no worries about the availability of international airports in India. India is well connected with the rest of the world with a diverse network of international flights that have managed to place India as a much preferred tourist destination on the world map. Check out the various major India international terminals.
Amritsar International Airport Amritsar (Punjab)
Indira Gandhi International Airport New Delhi
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordolio International Airport Guwahati (Assam)
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport Kolkata
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai
Hyderabad Airport Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh)
Goa Airport Vasco da Gama (Goa)
Chennai International Airport Chennai
Bangalore International Airport Bangalore (Karnataka)
Cochin International Airport Cochin (Kerala)
Trivandrum International Airport Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)
International Airlines in India
India is a major tourist attraction and foreigners throng this beautiful country in large numbers. In order to make commuting easier, there are many international flights operating in India. These international airlines in India have put India on the global map as a much sought after tourist attraction. Check out the list of Indian international airlines.
The following flights are owned by India and have international as well as domestic flights.
Air India
Kingfisher Airlines
Indian Airlines
Jet Airways
Other International Airlines Operating in India
Aeroflot Airline
Air Astana
Air Canada
Air France
Air Mauritius
Alitalia
Ariana Afghan Airline
Asiana Airlines
Austrian Airlines
Bellview Airlines
Biman Bangladesh Airlines
British Airways
Cathay Pacific Airways
China Airlines
China Eastern Airlines
Delta Airlines
Druk Air
Egypt Air
El Al Airline
Emirates Airline
Ethiopian Airlines
Etihad Airways
Gulf Air
Iran Air
Japan Airline (JAL)
Kenya Airways
K.L.M
Korean Air
Kuwait Airways
Lufthansa
Malaysia Airlines
Northwest Airlines
Oman Air
Pakistan Airlines
Qantas Airways
Qatar Airways
Royal Jordanian Airline
Royal Nepal Airlines
Saudi Arabian Airline
Singapore Airlines
South African Airways
Sri Lankan Airlines
Swiss International Airlines
Syrian Arab Airlines
Thai Airways International
Turkish Airlines
Uzbekistan Airways
Virgin Atlantic Airways
Domestic Airlines in India
One of the best ways to travel long distances in a short time is by flying in the domestic airlines in India. Most domestic flights of India have pretty affordable flight rates and offer good service. Indian domestic airlines operate many flights from one city to another and they are definitely the best way to travel if you have limited time in hand. Given here is a list of the domestic airlines in India. You can get detailed information from the airports.
Air India
Jet Lite
GoAir
Indian Airlines
IndiGo
Jagson Airline
Jet Airways
Kingfisher Airlines
Paramount Airways
Spice Jet
India Location
You will find extremes in terms of the geographical location of India. The Indian geography comprises of snow-capped mountains and warm turquoise blue beaches on the same sub continent. The topography of India is very diverse and is home to some of the most astonishing flora and fauna. India has the mighty Himalayas in the north that almost look like a crown of India and they separate India from the rest of Asia. The south has hilly coastal areas known as Western and Eastern Ghats. India is the only country to have an ocean named after it. Quite contrasting to the lush green coastal areas, India has the Thar Desert on the northwest part of the country in the state of Rajasthan. Geographically, India is the seventh largest country in the world. Read on further for more such amazing information.
Location of India: Southern Asia
Latitude: 8.4o to 37.6o North
Longitude: 68.7o to 97.25o East
Neighboring Countries: Bhutan, Burma, China, Nepal and Pakistan.
Seas/Oceans: Arabian Sea (West), Bay of Bengal (East), Indian Ocean (South)
Islands: Lakshadweep Islands in Arabian Sea, Andaman and Nicobar Islands in Bay of Bengal
Mountain Ranges: Himalayas in the north. Highest peak is the Kanchenjunga, which measures over 8000 meters.
Indian Baggage Rules
The baggage rules in India are almost the same as they are in the rest of the world with just a few exceptions. The Indian baggage rules are quite stringent and are implemented with a firm hand. So when you visit India, make sure you are acquainted with Indian luggage rules to avoid any confusion. Mostly, passengers get a duty free allowance, which enables them to bring their baggage without paying any duty. Personal and household items are treated as baggage only and can be brought along without any restrictions. There are some specific items on which one will have to pay duty. There are also certain restricted goods that cannot be brought. Read on further about those restricted items.
Restricted Items
Any offensive material like obscene books, pamphlets, papers, illustrations, paintings, representation, figures, article or objectionable literature are not allowed keeping in mind the Indian sensibilities.
Dangerous drugs such as cocaine, charas, opium, hemp morphine and their mixtures and derivatives.
Fire arms and any other form of weapon.
Jewellery or articles made of gold or silver are permitted but in a limit. The total value should not exceed Rs.20, 000/- for females and Rs.10, 000/- for males.
Tourists should declare their currency amount in the Currency Declaration Form if currency notes, bank notes or TC's (traveler's cheques) are in excess or equal of US $10,000.
Pets are allowed but in a limited number and one has to take permission of the airport authorities.
Plants and their parts like soil seeds, dry fruits, fruits, vegetables, coffee beans, flowers, cotton and un-manufactured tobacco which may contain pests or diseases.
Health Precautions for India
The person who said, "precaution is better than cure" must have had nasty experience while traveling! It is always better to be safe than sorry. In order to make your trip more relaxed and tension free, we bring you useful tips for health precautions for Indian travel. It is always better to take certain health precautions for India tour. Though India offers pretty good medical facilities, it may or may not suit you. Thus, it is sane to check out health protection India. Go through these various tips, which have been given on a general basis. It is however better to consult your doctor before embarking on your journey.
Get vaccine shots for protection against certain diseases that may pose a threat to your health while in the Indian sub continent.
Do not drink water from taps. Always buy bottled water or drink boiled water if you can. While buying bottled water, check if the seal is intact or not.
It is advisable that you stick to vegetarian cuisine in India. If you do want to try out non-vegetarian dishes, go to a recognized hotel instead of small restaurants.
Do not have cut fruits or salads from roadside vendors. They usually have very high contamination levels and are a breeding ground for germs.
In case you do fall ill, visit a doctor and relax. Just think of it as another experience!
Keep a small first aid kit with you with your essential medications along with band-aids, anti-septic ointment and mosquito repellants.
In case you are traveling during the summer months, take extra protection as the sun is very strong and it can get mercilessly hot. Carry hats, sunglasses and most important sunscreen lotions. Keep drinking water to prevent de-hydration.
Carrying Money
While traveling, you should be sure that you are carrying your money safely. Though there are no such risks of people snatching your money, it is always better to be safe than sorry. We bring you many ideas if you are wondering how to carry money safely while traveling in India. Read on further for tips on money safety.
Buy pouches that can be fastened with an attached belt to your waist and can also be worn under clothing. This is the most popular and safest way to carry money safely.
Keep your money and other valuable documents like ATM cards, passports and credit cards also in the pouch, hidden from others.
Do not carry all your money at once when traveling. Sort out some amount for daily expense and keep the rest in your hotel room secure in your suitcase.
Never keep money loosely in your pocket. You are only making the job easier for the pick pockets who wait for such opportunities.
Be alert as you would be in your own country while traveling in crowded areas. Be wary of unwanted hands trying to grab something out of your backpack.
Always keep some loose change in your pockets for giving to beggars who might mob you. Do not flash rolls of currency notes in front of them.
India Vaccinations
It is a good idea to get vaccine shots for Indian travel. It will take you time to get adjusted to the completely different environment. You may or may not fall ill. But why take chances! Vaccination for travelers is a must as most airlines ask for a doctor's certificate before allowing inter-continental travel. Tourists are required to take certain vaccinations for India and it is mandatory for traveling to India. Check out the main vaccinations that you will be required to take. This list is on a general basis. Please consult your doctor for further details.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Japanese Encephalitis
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
Meningitis
Polio
Rabies
Tetanus-Diphtheria
Typhoid
Yellow Fever
Indian Railways
For tourists visiting India for the first time, train travel in India will be a thrilling experience. Railways in India are the cheapest modes of inter city travel. India has the second largest railways network in the world with the railway tracks covering a total distance of 63,140 kilometers (approximately). India's varied landscapes are best enjoyed in a train. The smell of burning wood and coal in villages, the lush green fields, the bunch of village kids running with train waving out to the passengers is an experience in itself. One can book tickets at the "booking office" at the station. Usually, there is a separate window catering to foreign tourists. You can seek assistance from the cops who keep vigil on the platforms. Buy a ticket before boarding the train, you can't buy one on the train. Given below are some tips for making your train travel a nice experience.
Coaches and Comfort
The trains catering to inter city travel have many coaches starting from the first class to the unreserved category. The ones that are recommended for extremely comfortable travel are the first class, A/C class and second class A/C. You will be provided with bedding for the night, which will be promptly taken away early morning! Your company would be wealthy tourists, bureaucrats and politicians who fear flying. You will miss out on the varied countryside views and smells as the windows are heavily tinted. Then comes the second-class sleeper, which should be your option if you want to truly experience the rural India. However, no bedding is provided and it is better if you eat before catching the train. Your company would families and individuals like students, who will be always ready to help you in case you have a trouble.
Toilets
The toilets on trains are usually clean, but using them is no less than an art. It is an experience in its own way. The train will be chugging at its full speed and balancing yourself on the seat is not an easy task. Most people prefer the Indian style of the toilet, as no one is keen on sitting on anything in the bathroom! The floors are mostly wet due to leaking water. Be careful with your important articles like passports, watch, purse, etc. which may slip out of your hand and go down that small hole on the floor. Do not take out your contact lenses or any form of jewellery while in the toilet. It is best if you wear minimal jewellery on train and use spectacles instead of lenses.
Personal Safety
For your own safety, we would say that you do not try any of those acrobatic movements that most people seem to do with perfection on the train. These include swinging out of the train when it reaches a platform, step out on the platform while the train is still moving, or simply stand on the doorway while the train runs at full speed. No one will stop you from doing these things and they may sound like fun, but you will be responsible for your own injuries. If you have to stand on the doorway, make sure you hold on to something that is sturdy. All doorways have strong handles right outside the entrance. A better option would be to sit instead of stand. Also, the doors are usually heavy and tend to sway while the train is moving. You may be pushed off the train by these doors if you are not careful.
Baggage
Lock your zipper bags securely with little padlocks that are available on the station or any general store in a city. Every seat is provided with a round metal hook below. You are supposed to tie up your baggage on that hook with a metal chain that most hawkers sell on the station. Keep an eye on your baggage and never leave it unattended. If you are traveling alone, make sure you know your fellow travelers well in case you need to go to the restroom. There is a cloak room available in the stations where you can store your main baggage at affordable rates, take a shower and head out to travel the city for a day. Come back in the evening and take out your baggage. It is very convenient for tourists who are exploring a particular place for a day.
Food
Most trains offer meals for the passengers. With an exception of super fast trains and special train services, the food quality in other trains is not upto mark. Most passengers bring food packed from their homes to avoid eating the meals provided on train. The safest bet is to eat packaged food from stations. This may include fruit-cakes, biscuits, unpeeled fruits, etc. However, the hot beverages served on trains like tea and coffee are pretty good. Try to get food packed from a good restaurant if you are going to travel more than one night. If it is just an over nigh travel, try to eat something before you board the train.
Indian Food
Indian food has a wide range of varied cuisines that are absolutely lip smacking. There are so many types of food in India that it becomes difficult to choose from the diverse range of traditional food in India. Just like the amalgamation of cultures, we have an amalgamation of food styles too. Some are authentic, some are inspired and some are discovered accidentally! Though there is no scarcity of food, the range that India offers is so gigantic that you may not able to decide what to eat in India. Read on further for details on the Indian food that is prepared with generous doses of love.
North Indian Food
The staple food crop of northern region of India is wheat. A typical traditional north Indian balanced diet would consist of Roti (baked wheat pancakes) or Parathas (wheat pancake stuffed with mashed vegetables) served with dal, which is a watery preparation of pulses. North India also uses milk and other dairy products in their daily diet. Yogurt, milk, ghee (clarified butter), butter and paneer (cottage cheese) are widely used in most dishes along with spices. The non-vegetarian variety is highly inspired from the Mughlai cuisine and is absolutely delicious. Oil is generously used, as many people prefer deep fried curries and other preparations.
South Indian Food
The southern food is ruled by rice and preparations made from rice. It is light and easily digested. A main ingredient used in most dishes is grated coconut or coconut oil, which adds to the essence of the food and creates an aroma which is enough to send you scurrying to the nearest food joint. A typical south Indian meal would consist of rice served with piping hot sambhar (vegetable gravy with pulses), rasam (soup like preparation), curd and pickles along with atleast two different varieties of vegetables prepared in two different styles. A light crisp item called "pappadam" for occasional crunching in between is also served. South Indian food is less greasy and oily as compared to north Indian cuisine as most items are steamed or shallow fried. Other very popular south Indian preparations are dosa (fermented rice pancakes), idli (steamed rice cakes), Vada (fried doughnut like items that are not sweet), to mention a few. South Indians are known to use generous amounts of home made spices that make the food really tasty. Most non-vegetarian dishes have fish as the main ingredient and other forms of sea food.
East Indian Food
Most east Indians have an innate bond with anything sweet. The eastern region of India is famous for some of the most popular sweets. They offer a large variety of sweets that are an absolute delight for anyone with a sweet tooth. Rice dominates the main meals and the oil used in cooking is usually mustard oil. Some very popular dishes are momos, jhaal muri, macherjhol (fish curry), thukpa (soup preparation) and anything related to fish! The desserts are a must have if you visit the eastern regions of India.
West Indian Food
The western region of India has a wide range of dishes to offer. The Rajasthani cuisine has less of vegetables because of the desert like conditions but they have a wide variety of spicy chutneys and pickles. The people in Gujarat add a pinch of sugar to almost every dish. The typical Gujrati "thali" consists of atleast 10 different varieties of vegetables alone! The people of Maharashtra prepare a dish called "puran poli" that is famous throughout the country. Most of the items are steamed and roasted that make it easily digested.
Safety Guidelines for Traveling in India
India is a beautiful country and has even more beautiful people! It is a country that will leave you mesmerized and mystified, yet give you a sense of satisfaction. To make your trip even more memorable and hassle free, we bring you basic guidelines for safety in India. Like any other country, there are certain precautions for traveling in India that are to be kept in mind. You can enjoy your trip even more if you go through these safety guidelines in India.
Get to know the basic rules and laws of India before coming here. It is helpful to know the basic norms of the Indian society so as not to offend Indian sensibilities.
Stick to your original plans. Do not listen to advice given by strangers about better hotels and accommodation. Head straight to the hotel you booked.
Never discuss your travel plans with strangers. Also, do not disclose how much money you are carrying or discuss about it in open public.
Avoid traveling alone at night. Do not travel on roads and narrow lanes that are poorly lit.
In case you are meeting with a person or a client, choose a public place in the city.
Don't hand over your luggage to any unknown person except the hotel staff. If you do, chances are you may never see your baggage again!
Do not let strangers or suspicious people in your room. Call the hotel reception in case of any doubts.
All valuable items like money, cheques, passports, jewellery, etc should be kept safely in the hotel locker or in a secure suitcase. Never leave your valuables lying around in the room unattended. Also, avoid carrying huge sums of money in public.
Always keep your wallet/money purse in the side pocket of your trousers. Else keep it inside a jacket pocket. It is best to buy a money pouch that can be strapped onto your body and worn underneath your clothing. Avoid keeping your wallet in the back pocket.
Take your necessary medications and keep extra stock with you in case of emergency. Consult your doctor and get vaccine shots for certain diseases before your trip to India.
Make copies of important documents like passports, visa and identity proof to be kept with you in case any of those get lost. Also, keep a copy back home with a trusted friend who can fax it if need be.
Languages Spoken in India
In 1947, when India gained independence from the British rule, the problem of deciding on a common national language arose. When the constitution was framed, it recognized several common Indian languages and declared Hindi as the national language. There are around 17 major languages spoken in India apart from Hindi and English. Most people in India are acquainted with English, as it is one of the official languages used for administrative purposes.
Hindi
Hindi is the national language of India and also the widely spoken language.
English
English is widely spoken and written in almost all parts of India.
Assamese
It is the language of Assam.
Bengali
It is the official language of West Bengal.
Gujarati
It is the official language of Gujarat.
Kannada
It is a language of Karnataka, a southern state of India.
Kashmiri
This language is spoken in the northern most state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Malayalam
This language is spoken in God's own country, Kerala.
Marathi
The people of Maharashtra speak this language.
Oriya
This language is spoken in Orissa.
Punjabi
The people of the state of Punjab speak Punjabi.
Sanskrit
Known as the mother of all languages, this ancient language paved the way for many languages.
Tamil
The people of the southern state of Tamil Nadu speak Tamil.
Telugu
This language is spoken in Andhra Pradesh.
Urdu
Urdu is an old language and was spoken by the Mughals. Most Muslims in India speak Urdu.
Local Transport in India
There is no dearth of local transport in India. There are many cheap and affordable means of transportation in India that are available almost everywhere and anytime. Most locals depend on these means of transport for commuting from one place to another. The local Indian transport is a highly developed network that connects the busiest places as well as the remotest locales. Read on further about the local transport for commuting within India.
Buses
Buses are the cheapest means of local transport in India. Almost every city in India has a highly developed network of buses that ply from one place to another and cover long distances in a short time. It is best to enquire the routes before boarding a bus. You can ask fellow passengers on the bus stop as to which bus will go to your destination.
Auto Rickshaws
An auto rickshaw is also called auto or a three-wheeler. An auto is a small vehicle, usually in a combination of green and yellow or black and yellow. There are no doors or seatbelts. The right side of the auto is usually bound by iron rods to prevent anyone from falling. There is a single seat in the front for the driver and a wider space at the back for seating minimum 3 people. All autos are provided with a meter for calculating the fare, though most auto drivers don't use the meter. So while hiring an auto, fix an amount and negotiate.
Taxis/Cabs
You can find many cabs on the roads or you can always hire one from the numerous taxi stands strewn across the major cities. There are pre paid taxis also available at major railway stations and airports. You can also hire luxury vehicles from certain travel agencies.
Cycle Rickshaws
The cycle rickshaw has been on the Indian roads since ancient times. It is like a big tricycle that has a seat in the front for the rickshaw puller and a wide seat at the back to accommodate two people. It is an experience in itself and is the cheapest mode of transport for traveling short distances. The rickshaw pullers charge a nominal amount for their service. If you feel the amount is too much, do not hesitate to bargain.
Metro Rail
The major cities have a well-planned metro rail network. Calcutta has the oldest network of metro in India. Though metro is not available all through India, most cities like Delhi have a pretty good system of metro rail. Mumbai's metro system is under construction and will be ready soon. NCR regions (near Delhi) like Noida and Gurgaon also have extensive metro system plans in the pipeline.
India Facts
"If there is one place on the face of earth where all the dreams of living men have found a home from the very earliest days when man began the dream of existence, it is India."- Romain Rolland, French scholar.
India, the country where you find a unique blend of cultures, castes and races with generous doses of tradition thrown in. what you get, is a pleasantly appalling, fascinating, mystifying land that almost everyone falls in love with. This, my dear friend is India. Just for your assistance, given below are certain facts of India that will help you analyze India at a glance. Check out India information below.
Full Name
Republic of India (also called Bharat, Hindustan among locals)
Capital City
New Delhi
Total Area
3.3 million square kilometers (approximately) 1.2 Square Miles.
Population
1,000,000,000 (2001 Census) /Current Population Aprox. 1107 Million
Coastline
7,516 kilometers (inclusive of Andaman, Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands)
North to South
3214 kilometers.
East to West
2,933 kilometers
Latitude
8°4' and 37°6' North
Longitude
68°7 ' and 97°25' East
Climate
Summers (April - October)
Winters (November - March)
Monsoons (July - September)
Form of Government
Democracy (Federal form of Government)
Number of States
28
Number of Union Territories
07
Languages
Hindi is the official language. English is widely spoken and written.17 major languages recognized by the Constitution and 844 Dialects.
Religions
Hindu - 80%, Muslim - 14%, Christian - 2.4%, Sikh - 2%, Buddhist - 0.7% Jain - 0.5%, Zoroastrian and others - 0.4%
Currency
Indian Rupee
Time Zone
5.5 Hours (5 hours, 30 minutes) ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +5.5).
Electricity
230-240V 50HzHzCountry
Dialing Code
91
National Flag
Horizontal tricolor with 3 equal proportioned bands of three colors. Deep saffron on the top, White in center and dark Green at the bottom. The navy Blue wheel in the center of the white band has been taken from the traditional "Charkha" and has 24 spokes on it.
National Anthem
Jana Gana Mana written by Rabindranath Tagore.
National Emblem
Modeled on the Lion Capital of Sarnath.
National Song
Vande Mataram
Useful Phrases
When traveling in India, having an idea of common Indian phrases will help you in communicating more effectively with the locals. These frequently used phrases in India are usually very handy when you want to know your surroundings better and mingle with the locals. It also ensures that you are not taken for a ride in an unknown country. You will find help right away if you are stuck in a situation, as you are able to communicate at a more personal level with people around you. Check out this list of common helpful phrases for conversing with people in India.
English Phrase-Hindi Translation
Hello-Namaste-Namaskar
How are you?-Kaise hain?
I am fine-Main theek hoon
Goodbye-Main chalta hoon (chalti for female)
How much/ What is the cost?-Kitna hua/ kitna daam hai?
I want to go to hotel-Mujhe hotel jana hai
Can you please help me?-Kya aap meri madad karenge?
What is your name?-Apka naam Kya hai?
My name is …-Mera naam … hai
Yes-Haan
No-Nahi
Thank you-Shukriya/ Dhanyavaad
OK/Fine/Good/Whatever-Achaa
What happened?-Kya hua?
Luggage for Traveling in India
There are certain things in mind to be kept while deciding on luggage for traveling in India. A very typical question that crosses every tourist's mind while packing is what to carry while in India. There are certain luggage basics that have to be kept in mind when traveling in India, or any other place for that matter. Read on further for tips on luggage to be carried while traveling to make your trip enjoyable and hassle free.
Decide how many days are you going to travel. Decide if your trip is extensive or just limited to a few places. Pack your dresses accordingly. Ideally, you should take backpacks for extensive sight seeing.
Do not carry heavy or very large suitcases. It is a pain moving those from one place to another.
Suitcases and bags with wheels below are easy to be moved here and there and are definitely better than picking the luggage up and walking.
Keep some empty spaces in your bags to carry gifts and souvenirs back home.
Make sure you have a waist belt in which your essential documents like passports, travelers' cheques, money etc. have been tucked away safely.
To lessen the chances of your bags getting lost or mixed up, put your initials on the bags at evident places. You can either mark them with a permanent marker or stick stickers of your initials.
Drinking Water in India
There is no scarcity of drinking water in India. Most towns and cities have a well planned system of over head tanks that store water which can be used as and when the need be. Though Indian drinking water is clean, it is advisable that you keep in mind some basic safety while drinking water on you visit to India. Given below are some tips and precautions that will be for our own safety.
Bottled mineral water is available all through India in all roadside shops. Make sure you drink that mineral water and do not forget to check the manufacturing and expiry date.
While eating out in restaurants, make sure you order bottled water only. If they serve you water in a glass that is not clean, insist on getting a bottle and drink from that.
Some roadside vendors sell water in plastic bags. Do not drink that at any cost.
Do not drink tap water. Tap water is usually used for bathing and laundry purposes.
If the water served to you has something floating in it, do not drink it and have it replaced.
Some places may offer you water from a handpump. That water is equally harmful and it is not advisable that you drink it.
While traveling in trains, it is recommended that you use bottled water for brushing and flossing.
If staying with someone, make sure there is an aquaguard, or a water filter. If both are not available, insist on getting bottled mineral water. If that is also not possible, drink boiled water.
Guidebooks for India Travel
India is a vast country. There is so much to explore in this lovely country. In order to have detailed information and knowledge about this fascinating country there are many guide books and traveler's manuals that are available for tourists. These helpful Indian guidebooks will assist you very much while you travel in India. Also known as the traveler's Bible, the India travel guide gives you detailed information about various places and also about India as a whole.
The Lonely Planet
The most famous of all travel books, the Lonely Planet travel guide for India gives out detailed information about this beautiful country like what to see, what to expect and how to enjoy this mystical country. The Lonely Planet traveler's manual also has come out with a phrasebook that is very useful for learning the commonly used phrases in the north of India. Buy it and bring it with you. The phrasebook is a small booklet that easily fits in your pocket. The lonely planet has detailed maps, hotel information, etc. and is usually very handy when traveling around.
The India Handbook
The India Handbook is yet another very helpful guide that is available in most travel stores. It is published by Footprints. The India Handbook is updated every year. This traveler's manual also has maps for every major city and has addresses of major hotels and restaurants.
Travels Through Sacred India
This book is written by Roger Housden and has fascinating details about the common folklores and interesting traditions of India. This book scores on vivid description and first hand examples and instances of those who have been mesmerized by the mystical country of India.
The Rough Guide to India
The Rough Guide to India is another popular travel guide that has detailed information regarding hotel reservations, quick medical aid, train and flight timings among other enthralling facts. It also has many details about the cultural and historical background.
Food Precautions in India
The vast range of food offered in India tempts most people. While this lip smacking food is usually prepared with much care, some of it may be contaminated. That is how people tend to fall ill and have to go to doctors while on their trip to India. Certain food precautions in India have to be followed by tourists. These Indian food precautions are for your own benefit and well-being. So go through these safety measures for food in India and stay healthy!
Always have food that is hot. Warm food is a bit risky and one may fall ill.
Avoid cut fruits and salads since they have high levels of contamination. Go for unpeeled fruits, as they are the safest. It is recommended to wash the fruits before.
Do not have fresh fruit juices from the roadside juice stalls. Go for packed juices that are branded or bottled sodas.
Do not have food from roadside vendors. They are usually contaminated with dust and flies.
If you want to have non-vegetarian food, go to a decent restaurant that locals may recommend.
Avoid eating at dingy restaurants and the ones that are empty. Empty restaurants are a sign that the food is not that great.
There are many fast food joints and international names in all major cities. If you cannot find a decent restaurant while touring, go to these joints.
Indian Holidays
India is the land of festivals. Infact, in India, almost every month there is a major festival that is celebrated by a certain religion. However, the main festivals in India are celebrated throughout the country. Some of the most important holidays in India fall on the days these festivals are held. Check out the list below that gives an idea of major Indian holidays. The dates are tentative and are prone to change according to the Indian calendar. The national holidays are the same though.
Baisakhi
Buddha Purnima
Christmas
Diwali
Dusshera
Easter
Gandhi Jayanti (National Holiday - 2nd October)
Good Friday
Guru Nanak Jayanti
Holi
Id - Ul - Fitr
Id - Ul Zuha
Independence Day (National Holiday - 15th August)
Janmashtami
Mahavir Jayanti
Muharram
Pongal
Rama Navmi
Republic Day (National Holiday - 26th January)
Shopping in India
Every tourist who visits India wishes to take back a part of this lovely country. Shopping in India is the ideal way to fulfill your wish of taking a memory of India with you. Indian shopping attractions offer a variety of items to suit your diverse needs and taste. You can find items that suit your budget too. Souvenirs bought from India are ideal as gifts for your friends and family back home. So go through the list of various items and decide what to buy from India.
Clothes
An all time favorite among tourists, clothes are available in a huge variety. Popular fabrics are cotton, silk chiffons, brocade and khadi among others.
Carpets
India has one of the biggest carpet industries in the world. Carpets are available in much affordable prices and are available in a huge variety. Darjeeling is an ideal place to shop for carpets.
Jewellery
The Indian jewellery designs are exquisite and elaborately done. Not only gold, even silver is very popular among tourists and locals. Indian jewellery is famous for using intricate work of gems and other semi precious stones.
Handicrafts
India is famous for its handicrafts and ethnic crafts items. The rural India specializes in these beautiful hand works. Other popular shopping items that are taken by tourists include Indian spices, Indian tea, pickles of different flavors, exotic perfumes and knick knacks from different states. Come here and see for yourself, there is plenty to choose from.
Voltage in India
The voltage & current supply in India is different than the rest of the world. Electricity in India is 240 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. In case the devices you are carrying do not accept 240 volts at 50 hertz, you will be required to carry a voltage converter. You can either buy one from here or get one from your home. There are basically three types of voltage converters that are available and adaptable to the Indian voltage. They are given below.
Resistor-network converters: 50-1600 Watts Can be used for appliances like hair dryers and irons.
Transformers: 50-100 WattsCan be used continuously for items like battery chargers, radios, laptop computers, cameras, MP3 players and camcorders.
Combination converters: Has a combination voltage of resistor network and transformers. One can switch from one mode to another by a switch provided for this purpose.
India uses different types of plugs unlike the ones used in western countries. The plugs are usually the round pin type instead of the flat pin plug that most countries in the West use. It advisable that you carry a combination plug adapter that is available very easily in most electrical shops.
Communication in India
Communication in India is at par with the best in the World. You will find state-of-the-art technology in Indian modes of communication. The vast distances of this country have been easily overcome with the help of various means of communication. Read on further to know how to communicate in India and be in touch with the rest of the world.
Telephones
India has a highly developed network of telephone lines. Almost every road in India has one phone booth, which offers public calls, STD calls and ISD calls. The ISD code of India is 91. In order to make an international call, dial 00 (international access code from India) followed by code of the country you are calling followed by the area code and then local number. Another option is to buy a cellular phone also known as mobile phone or cell phone. You can buy a sim card of the local area, get it activated and be in touch with your family and friends through calls and sms.
Internet
India is connected to the world through the Internet also. Almost every urban household has access to high speed Internet. Now-a-days, Internet has also reached rural India and people living at the grassroot level are learning how to communicate and move with the world. You can send and receive emails and surf the net in those many "cyber cafes" that have sprung up at every nook and corner in all cities, which offer Internet services at minimal costs.
Fax
Fax services are available all around the country. All telegraph offices in the cities have facilities to receive fax and are open 24 hours a day. Most public telephone booths and stationary shops also have these services. They may cost a bit more than what the Government offers.
Telegraph
All major towns and cities have telegraph offices that provide good service. These telegraph offices are run by the Government and provide good services at affordable price. Most of these offices are open round the clock, ready to help those in need.
Postal ServicesThe Indian
Postal Services are excellent compared to other countries. Letters are delivered to their respective destinations always on time. Registered mail is necessary only if you intend to send valuables. The Indian postal service also offers Airmail services to Europe, Australia and Africa takes almost a week. For America, it takes a little longer than a week say around 10 days. All major towns have Speed Post facilities. Almost all towns have Courier services. If anyone is going to write to you, tell the person to write his/her name and address in big bold capital letters that can be read easily. Letters unclaimed for a month are usually sent back. The addressee's name and other contact details should also be clearly written to avoid any confusion. The postal offices also provide telegram services to those places where facilities like telephone and Internet are not available.
Customs of India
India is a modern country yet the customs and traditions are religiously followed in urban as well as rural India. These traditions of India are what give India an individual identity and lend a mystical essence to the atmosphere. One finds a unique and harmonious co-existence of many different religions in India. This gives rise to an umpteen number of traditions. India is a secular country and everyone has the right to pursue a religion of his/her own choice. Indian customs and rituals vary from one region to another, yet they are known in a collective form of Indian traditions. Read on further to know about the unique customs, rituals and traditions of India.
Traditional Welcome
In India, a guest is considered as equal to God. So welcoming a guest is no less than an event. The guest is given a very warm traditional welcome in which he/she is garlanded and given a welcome drink. Then a "tikka" (vermillion) is applied on the forehead and a small "aarti" is performed. The Indian phrase for this is "Atithi Devo Bhava". This phrase is also used for a campaign launched by the Tourism Ministry of India to highlight the rich culture of India.
Lighting Lamp/Diya
A small lamp, which is known as "diya" is lit before the picture or idol of god. Along with the diya, incense sticks are also lit. It is lit in the early hours of morning or evening or both. It is considered to bring good luck to the house and is also considered sacred.
Namaskar/Namaste
People in India greet each other by joining the palms at almost the chest level and saying "namaste". It is used for both "hello" and "goodbye".
Prostrating
The youngsters in India show respect to elders by prostrating before the elders of the family. They kneel down and touch the feet of their parents as a sign of respect and to receive their blessing and good wishes. The elders bless by touching the head of the child.
Birth Ceremony
Indians rejoice the birth of a kid by conducting a small ceremony. This usually takes place some days after the child has come home. A priest is called to preside on the holy rituals. The child is made to lie down on a beautifully decorated cradle and the priest decides the first alphabet of the child's name.
Wedding Ceremony
Most Indian weddings are held in much grandeur with an amazing display of fireworks, dance, music and lip smacking cuisines. Infact, Indian weddings are not a one-day affair, most of them continue for 3-4 days.
Death Ceremony
Indians pay much respect to the deceased. The person is cremated according to certain rituals and the ceremony lasts quite some days.
Drinking Sodas in India
In India, "soda" or "drinking sodas" generally refers to clear looking fizzy drink with a dash of lime and salt. Indian cool drinks are a bit different than what you get in the western countries. You can get a variety of soft drinks in India, apart from the usual Coke and Pepsi. Most of these soft drinks are carbonated ones, with added flavors and sugar.
An early drink modeled on the famous Coke is the Thumbs Up. Unlike western fizzy drinks, Indian fizzy drinks are a lot sweeter. This because of generous doses of sugar they put here. You can get your favorite diet coke over here too. The local soda drink is called "Banta" and is offered with a dash of lime, salt and sugar. It is easily available on roadside sold on pushcarts by vendors. Other fizzy drinks are Coca Cola, Miranda (orange fizzy drink), Sprite, 7Up, Fanta (like Miranda) among other lesser-known varieties.
There is a non-fizzy variety of cold drinks available for those who don't like carbonated drinks. These drinks are usually made from fruit extracts. Popular ones are Maaza, Slice and Frooti that are mad essentially from mango extracts. They are available in any grocery store by the roadside and are also sold by many vendors on their pushcarts. Do not forget to check the manufacturing date on it.
Dealing With Strangers in India
While traveling in any place, we are always told to watch out and beware of over friendly strangers. Though most Indians are very warm and friendly and mean no harm, there are some crooks and over friendly people in India who may try to take advantage of your unsuspecting nature. Read on further for tips on how to deal with over friendly strangers while traveling in India.
Watch out for those over friendly people (men and women) who offer you something to eat or drink while using public transport. Politely decline the offer. Sometimes, even Indians are drugged like this and have reported their entire luggage missing when they came back to their senses.
Watch out for over friendly people who offer to assist you with your luggage. They not only assist you, but disappear with it as well.
Beware of the over friendly stranger who approaches you and strikes a conversation. After the usual warm greetings, he begins the story of how poor he is or is in need of some dire financial assistance. The motive is to lighten up your pocket by a few dollars!
Like all other countries, we too have scams (no, not the political ones!) and petty thefts while walking on the road or using public transport. Be alert of those wary hands reaching for your backpack, back pocket to rid you off your possessions. Though most scams are minor, some very rare may be really serious. Do not hesitate to raise an alarm.
On a railway station, you may find a neatly dressed man is crisp blue (or any other color!) shirt with a blazer that looks like an official dress. He claims to be the ticket checker and will help you find your train, your seat, warns you of touts and thieves and goes away. The next thing you know, your camera is missing, along with your watch and wallet.
You take a pre paid taxi from the airport to your hotel where you have already booked a room. On the way, the taxi driver says, the hotel you booked is no good and he knows of a "better" hotel. Sure it is better, because he gets paid a commission if he brings tourists to that hotel. Do not change your plan. Stick to your original arrangement.
Be watchful, as you would be in your own country. Come with an open mind and truly enjoy this diverse country that has so much to offer!
Flea Markets in India
The people in India love to dress up for any occasion, even if it means going to the school to pick up your kid. You will find the hippest and the most traditional attires being worn in the same household. The current generation is brand conscious yet values money. The solution to this paradox lies in the Indian flea markets. These popular flea markets in India sell the most stylish and comfortable clothes and casuals that are preferred by this generation. You can find all youngsters thronging these street markets of India, striking a good deal with the salespersons and walking off with their catch!
A thumb rule that every youngster swears by is bargaining. The traders raise the price to sometimes double the original cost. Ideally, one should bargain upto 20-30% of the quoted price. So if a trader quotes a price of Rs.200 for an article, bargain till Rs.120 or at the most Rs.150. Almost every major city in India has a chain of flea markets selling those knick knacks that you can buy for yourself and your friends back at home. Read on further about the major flea markets in different cities.
Goa Flea Markets
Goa is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and those little knick-knacks that never seem to run out of fashion. The best places to hunt for these are the flea markets of Goa. The most famous flea market of Goa is the Anjuna flea market. Apparently, this market was started off by the hippies many years back. Today the flea markets are the favorite haunt of locals as well as tourists. One can find everything and anything in these flea markets. Not just clothes and souvenirs, one can also find enthusiastic musicians, tarot readers, palmists, etc. sitting here and there to amuse tourists.
The flea markets of Goa are the best place to try out local Goan cuisine. Some of the favorite souvenirs that are bought by people are beachwear, trinkets made of shells, sarongs, bandanas, bamboo work, crochet, etc. Another popular item that is bought by most people is the salted cashew nuts. It is normal to see people bargaining over the prices and has almost become an unspoken rule. The flea markets of Goa are the perfect place to see the cultural amalgamation that Goa is rich in and are a must visit.
Delhi
The most glamorous shopping area in the heart of the city is the Connaught Place, built during the British Days, with a beautiful fountain and park in the center, with convenient and ample parking spaces. Radial roads lead out of this center point to all parts of Delhi. It houses an underground shopping plaza "Palika Bazaar" where you can find extensive items ranging from clothes, bags, shoes to even silver jewellery. Also, the most famous Janpath is located in Connaught Place, which a favorite haunt of all college going kids who come there to shop for the most stylish clothes available at surprisingly affordable prices. Another place famous near Janpath is Central Cottage Industries Emporium in the STC Building Complex, which is paradise for handicrafts' lovers. For the brand conscious, we have the posh markets and branded showrooms in the areas of South Extension, Vasant Vihar, INA Market, Greater Kailash located in south Delhi. A handicraft market called Delhi Haat is located right opposite INA market and offers traditional handicrafts of rural India. You can also get a taste of delicious traditional food of India in the stalls of different states. In the central region of Delhi, we have the Khan Market that has a good collection of clothes and shoes along with junk ornaments. Towards the west of Delhi, we have the "always crowded" Karol Bagh, which is a unique amalgamation of malls, brand names as well as flea markets.
Mumbai (Bombay)
You will find an unusual collection of jewellery, antiques, wooden articles and leatherware and general bric-a-brac at the famous Chor Bazaar. Try to bargain with the traders and you will normally strike a good deal with them. Another market worth visiting is the Crawford market, which is famous for its variety in flowers, fruits and meat and also makes a good picture to be captured in your camera. You can get an excellent collection of jewellery at the Zaveri Bazaar, which is popular throughout the city. Also worth a visit are the state emporiums located in the world Trade Center that offer exclusive and wide range of hand made articles like carpets, shawls, etc. the prices are slightly higher but worth the quality. Close to the famous Metro cinema is the Fashion Street that offers a wide range of summer clothes to be stacked in your collection.
Chennai (Madras)
Chennai, previously known as Madras, is the capital of Tamil Nadu. It is located in the south of India. Chennai is a paradise for shoppers. The famous Mount Road has several emporiums lined up and covers a distance of almost 8 kilometers from North to South. The emporiums and malls offer a wide range of products that include clothes, jewellery, bags and shoes along with lip-smacking south Indian cuisine. The more branded and expensive items are available in Anna Nagar area, which is located towards the north western region. The famous Indian silk comes from Kanchipuram and is available at prominent market places of Mylapore, Panagal Park and Pondi Bazaar at T.Nagar. Egmore is an upmarket shopping area that is dominated by various Shopping Plazas and big Departmental Stores.
Kolkata (Calcutta)
The overcrowded lanes of Kolkata (previously known as Calcutta) still have the old trams that ply in this beautiful city. Kolkata has its own share of different government emporiums and cottage emporiums located at the Chowringhee Lane. You can find wonderful handicrafts from all states over here. Another popular shopping center in Kolkata is the Bentinck Street that sells leather shoes, leather accessories and also is lined with sweet shops. You won't find a single street in Kolkata that does not have a sweet shop. You can find a wide assortment of commodities in Gariahat. For a wide range of ethnic goods, a visit to the famous Tirreta Bazaar should prove worthwhile. For big malls and glittering showrooms, visit the Park Street which houses all reputed brands. Another place where you will find everything under one roof is the famous New Market, which is ironically one of the oldest markets in Kolkata.
Handling Beggars in India
You may see lots of beggars on the streets and the main roads, begging for alms on the traffic signals. Though most of them leave after begging for a minute or two, handling beggars in India is an acquired skill as some may be too nudging and reluctant to leave unless you give them some money. In order to help you out, we bring you some beggar handling tips that will prove useful during your travel in India. Read on further to know how to handle beggars in India.
You can give food or eatables to the handicapped and the really old ones. But, look out for some beggars posing as handicapped ones. They trade crutches with fellow beggars and go around begging.
Some women beggars with a small malnourished baby may use hand gestures to signal they are hungry. It is okay to give them food or eatables. But, watch out for some women who trade babies for this purpose.
Never ever give food or eatables as soon as you get out of your vehicle. Give some alms the moment you are about to step back in your car. That way, you can roll up your windows to put off prying hands.
Don't be surprised to see children begging on the streets. Most of them are young kids, hardly 5 years old, who have been sent by their parents to beg for money. It is best to give them some left over food or candy. Children can't resist candies and it is better than giving them money.
If you really feel for the beggars or such needy and poor people the best way is supporting locals and charities which would go to the needy person in the most effective way.
Indian Economy
The economy of India is a mixed one. That means the Indian economy has a mix of capitalist as well as socialist economies. After independence, the government exercised control over the interference of private sector and gave the public sector much confidence to grow. Today, India's economic conditions are pretty good given the ever-increasing population and poverty in India. The Indian economy is fourth largest in the world if the purchasing power is calculated. With a GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth rate of almost 9%, India is the second fastest growing economy in the world.
The main economic activity of India is still agriculture and other professions related to agriculture. Majority of the population earns its livelihood from agricultural activity. The urban India has witnessed a tremendous growth of the industrial sector with private sectors and investments flowing like water in India. It is a major commercial center with many multinational companies investing in the untapped potential of this growing country. Some of the biggest names of the world have an office in India.
Though the economy of India is booming and growing by leaps and bounds, there are certain fields that require much wanted attention. The population of India is growing at an alarming rate and something has to be done immediately about this problem. Most of the population is living below poverty line without even the basic necessities of food, clothes and shelter. Unemployment and regional imbalances are weakening the Indian economy very slowly. These problems will be dealt with in the near future by the government of India.
India Traffic Rules
India is a vast country. A gigantic grid of roads connects most cities and towns. The Indian traffic rules go a long way to ensure traffic safety in India. The Indian roads are forever filled with traffic jams, thanks to ever increasing demand and supply of cars and other vehicles. Hence, following the traffic rules in India are necessary for your own security and well-being. Read on further to know about certain traffic rules of India.
India follows left hand side driving. So be careful and look both ways while crossing the road. Do not drive if you cannot adapt to the left hand side driving.
Honking is a necessary evil in India and almost a habit to the drivers. So don't get worked up if the driver behind you constantly honks even if it is a red light!
In case you are involved in an accident, wait till the police come and file a report. However if someone is injured make sure you call the ambulance. You can take public assistance, as they are usually ready to help tourists.
It is best to let an Indian driver take you around the city. They know how to tackle traffic well and you can relax.
The Indian Government recognizes international driver' license (IDL) and it is mandatory to produce your license if a cop asks. However, hiring a car and driving it around the city is quite an uncommon thing for tourists. It is best to hire a car with a driver.
If your stay in India is for a long time, you should have a driver's license though it is not necessary that it should be IDL. It should be of a recognized Government. If your license has expired, you can apply for a new one. You would be required to give a written test and a driving test.
Mosquito Repellants in India
While in India, you will be greeted by mosquitoes too, that seem to have a penchant for foreign blood! You will find mosquito repellents and mosquito resistant creams in most shops here. Apart from these, you can also buy mosquito mats and coils that can be lit in a room to ward off mosquitoes. Most Indian mosquito repellants are pretty good but it is advisable to bring along your own stock of bud repellant creams in case you develop an allergic reaction to the ones used here.
In case of excessive rashes due to mosquito bites, visit the nearest doctor who will prescribe an anti-rash cream. There are herbal creams also, that are available for a minimal price. The mosquito repellent creams are pretty good and quite handy for traveling here and there. It is advisable though, not to try out any new substance or chemicals in a new environment, as it may not suit you.
People of India
The people of India are among the warmest and the most hospitable people in the world. They take pains to make their guests feel at home. Even today, Indian people believe in their age-old traditions and make sure the same values are passed onto future generations. The rich traditional background of our country fascinates the current generation. Even though they wear the latest fashionable accessories and flaunt the best cell phones, when it comes to respecting elders and following the religious practices, they make sure that there is no chance for complaints. Read on further for some more fascinating information about Indians.
The diverse country of India is equally diverse in its racial ethnicity also. India is probably one country in the world where you will find so many races and cultures living together in perfect harmony. The six main ethnic groups of ancient India are as follows:
Dravidians - The people of South India, the Dravidians have been believed to come before the Aryans. They are accredited to have developed the city civilization of the Indus valley, whose remains have been found at ancient cities of Mohenjodaro and Harappa.
Mongoloids - The Mongoloids are found in the Northeast India in the states of Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Tripura. Some of them are also found in the Himalayan region of Ladakh. They are characterized by pale complexion, small eyes and a medium built.
Negrito - The Negritos are supposed to have been the earliest people to travel to India. They inhabited the islands of Andaman and Nicobar and their race is till continuing. Their striking feature is their broad heads like that of Africans.
Nordic Aryans - The Nordic Aryans were the last to come to India. They are widely found in the northern and central parts of India. They have been believed to have come to India around 2000 B.C.
Proto Australoids - These people came to India after the Negritos. The Australoids laid the foundation of Indian civilization and are accredited with the introduction of farming techniques. They grew rice and vegetables and made sugar from sugarcanes. These people are now found in some parts of India, Myanmar and the islands of South East Asia. Their characteristic features are medium height, low foreheads, wheatish complexion and flat noses.
Western Brachycephals - These people are distributed in the western and southwest parts of India. That includes the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka. The Parsis are also believed to have originated from this ethnic group. These people have broad foreheads and medium built.
Religions in India
India is the land of religions. The Indian religions are so diverse and so widespread, that it is difficult to club India under one religion. There are many religions in India that co-exist peacefully and in harmony. The religious festivals are celebrated by all, as Indians, irrespective of caste and religion. On one hand you will find Muslims celebrating Diwali and on the other, Hindus enjoying Id. Read on further to know the diverse religious conviction of India and the major religions.
Hinduism-It is believed that Hinduism was the oldest religion to come into existence in India. Almost 80% of the population follows the Hindu religion in India.
Islam-The second most dominant religion after Hinduism is Islam. In India, almost 14% of the population follows the Islam religion.
Christianity-Christianity is the third most dominant religion in India with almost 4% of the population consisting of Christians.
Sikhism-About 2% of the total population of India comprises of people who follow the Sikh religion also known as Sikhism.
Other ReligionsRest of India consists of Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, Zoroastrians and Jews. These religious groups are less than 2%.
Street Food in India
Indian street food is pretty famous and most tourists gorge on the delicious and affordable roadside food in India to get the real taste of this amazing country. The street food in India is an amalgamation of various flavors that stimulate the taste buds of tourists as well as locals. In every big metro, you will find all roads and small narrow lanes having at least one such portable food stall. The snacks are prepared right there in front of your eyes. You can also ask for extra flavors such as more spice or more tanginess. Given here is information on famous Indian street food items. Drooling already?
Chaat-The quintessential North Indian street food, chaat is an all time favorite of all people, whether locals or tourists. It is made of an assortment of crisp, salted, small pancakes sprinkled with various masala powders along with different chutneys (Indian sauces) and a dash of yogurt. For dressing, some grated ginger and some pomegranate seeds are used. Another version is the fruit chaat that is available with chopped seasonal fruits offered with a dash of spicy masalas and a hint of lime juice.
Bhel Puri-This street food is prepared in different ways in different parts of India. Though the main ingredients remain the same, here are different additions in different parts of India. Essentially, it is puffed rice with generous servings of "sev" mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, green chilies and coriander. It is served with a dash of lime juice, rock salt, normal salt and a hint of red chilly powder.
Pani Poori a.k.a Golgappas-It takes a big mouth (literally!) to gulp down the famous pani pooris also known as golgappas in northern parts of the country. Basically pani puris are small balls made of flour. They are filled with mashed potatoes and sweet sauce, dipped in tangy water and are to be eaten whole. If you bite it into half, the ball breaks and the water flows out.
Aloo Tikki-Aloo tikki can be considered as an Indian version of the vegetable cutlet. It basically flattened balls of boiled and mashed potato mixed with flour, kneaded into soft dough. These flattened balls are shallow fried in oil on a huge pan. They are served piping hot with different chutneys.
Pav Bhaji-Pav bhaji is essentially dry buns topped with a cube of butter, combined with a mish-mash of hot cooked vegetables along with raw onions or radish. You can add more tanginess to the mish mash by adding some lime juice. It is very filling and most people skip dinner if they have it late in the evening.
Vada Pav-This street food is famous in the southern parts of India. It is usually eaten as breakfast in many parts of the south of India. It consists of vada wrapped in bread that is served along with hot concoction or different chutneys. The vada is usually made of boiled and mashed potatoes deep fried in oil. This hot vada is then wrapped up in bread and served.
Apart from these famous street food items, different varieties of omelets, pork fry, parathas (soft thin pancakes served with curry) are also available at minimal prices.
Tipping in India
Tipping in India is optional, solely based on your judgment and experience. Frankly speaking, there is not a certain answer to the question of how much to tip in India. Some people tip, some don't. If you have had a good experience, tip by all means. Else, just pay for the service and get done with it. Some people pay a small amount before the service to ensure that they get good service. Read on further for some unspoken Indian tipping rules in case you are still clueless.
Tipping is usually done in restaurants when you pay the bill. Ideally, you are supposed to tip 10% of the bill. But most people keep loose change inside the bill book. The name of the restaurant also matters. If it a big and famous restaurant, then tip around 10% of the bill. If it is a small restaurant, then keeping loose change is enough.
It is customary to tip service providers at hotels. You can tip the bellman, the room service in-charge and the person who brings you food in the room. Giving Rs.20-50 is ideal.
Taxi drivers, auto rickshaw drivers and porters are usually not tipped. But if the service is genuinely good, you can tip a small amount. Most tips are accepted with a generous "Thank You".
Tourist Guides in India
Tourist guides in India are usually very helpful people who take pains to ensure that tourists visiting India have a memorable trip to India. Most travel agents and hotels provide tourists with these Indian guides who charge a nominal amount for their services. The tourist guides are very helpful in taking the tourists around the city and can sometimes take you to places where normal public is not allowed. Most of these guides are well conversant in English and the local language. Some guides can speak other languages like German and French along with English. Though they are very helpful people, go through these tourist guide tips to be on the safe side.
Hire guides from recognized bureaus or ask your hotel to arrange one for you.
Do not flash rolls of money in front of the guide. Human mentality can change in a second.
Be polite but firm. That will ensure they do not take you for a ride.
Fix an amount for the entire day. You can always bargain a bit. Pay the guide at the end of the day when you are back at your hotel. If the service has been particularly good, you can tip the guide, which will be received with a generous "Thank you".
Trust your instincts and be alert if you feel the guide is not being genuine.
Tips for Women Travelers
India is a very warm and hospitable country. Though modern in most aspects, India still remains traditional. The western influence is there in India, but it is not very appealing to the Indian sensibilities. Though women are much respected in India, go through these safety tips for single woman, as it is not always safe for women to travel alone. These travel tips for women in India will be much useful if you are traveling alone or even with a group. Not to offend the Indian sensibilities, we bring you certain tips for women travelers.
Don't wear clothes that are revealing or provocative. When in India, it is best to cover up yourself so as not to attract unwanted attention.
Women can roam around in jeans and tee shirts, long cotton pants and cotton shirts. Skirts, if long are much better than the short ones.
It is not quite advisable to show public displays of affection. It not only offends Indians, but also attracts lewd remarks and gestures. Refrain from any such physical activity that is intimate.
It is alright to shake hands with most people, though keep a distance from males. Some people might just take it in the wrong sense and not like it.
Saying "Hi" or "Hello" is acceptable in cities, though with elders it is best to greet with a "Namaste".
While roaming in beaches, it is best to be clothed. India does not allow people to be in their swim-wear even in beaches. Wear a cotton pant and a tee shirt.
While in a pub, discotheque or a bar, it is advisable to take a friend along with you. Do not venture there alone as it may not be very safe.
Indians usually don't allow women to smoke in public. If you have to smoke, do it in your hotel room. However, some major urban cities seem to have accepted women smoking in public.
If you happen to come across a street party or a festive procession, it is best not to take part. Most Indian women also stay away from such crowds in which there are many aggressive males. You can watch from a distance and move on when it has passed you.
Black Market in India
Like any other economy, India also faces the problem of black market. The Indian black market deals with buying and selling of goods and services illegally. However, the black market in India should be the last place to be visited by a tourist and that too if he/she wants to invite trouble! Black marketing in India is as illegal as it is in any other country and those found guilty of dealing with the black market are often punished severely. The fines can run into several thousands of dollars.
Black markets develop when the Government places certain limitations on the production or provision of goods and services. During such situations, black markets take advantage and buy and sell these prohibited commodities illegally. The transactions are done under hush-hush conditions, necessarily in the dark, hence the name black market. The people handling these transactions are very clever and will do anything to save their faces if caught in a scam.
Also, it has been reported that cops sometimes disguise as these people to find out who deals with them and the prospective "clients". They strike a deal with you and if you agree to deal in illegal transactions, you are caught red-handed and given a taste of the Indian jails!
What to Wear in India
While in India, carry basic clothing with yourself. However don't pack so much that you find it difficult to handle your own baggage. Indian clothing pattern changes according to the seasons. You will find many varieties of clothes to wear in India while traveling and shopping. There is no such definite answer to the question of how to dress up in India because we don't adhere to any dress code as such. However, India still sticks to tradition and some heads turn if you dress up provocatively in public. Also, you might invite unwanted attention from certain men who stare and pass comments at women to amuse themselves. Read on further to know what to wear in India.
First check the season you are traveling in. Is it summer or winter? Both the weather conditions can reach extremes so it is better that you pack according to the season.
If you are traveling in summers, pack light cotton clothes. Do not wear synthetic as you may develop some skin allergy or heat burns.
If you are traveling in winters, pack some warm clothes, as it can get mercilessly chilly in the northern parts of India.
Take your basic jeans and some full-sleeved shirts and tee shirts for comfortable traveling. Full-sleeved clothes are ideal protection against sun tan during the day and mosquito bites at night.
Carry good sturdy shoes with you since your feet will be dusty and dirty while traveling. It is best to avoid dangerously high heels and flat sandals will do just fine.
For women, there are no restrictions on wearing jeans, trousers and long skirts. You would want to avoid shorts, tank tops and exposing vests while in India as it may hurt some Indian sensibilities. Sleeveless shirts, if decent can be worn without any problems. It is advisable to carry a light stole or scarf with you to cover your head in case it gets too hot. Some religious places also require you to cover your head, so it may come handy then.
Look around you and observe how people dress up in India. You can always pick some tips from the trendy yet decent youngsters.
In case you want a different style and dress up in the Indian way, opt for knee length "kurtas" that can be worn with jeans or cotton pants called "pajama". The traditional Indian attire for women that looks like a kurta pajama is called "salwar kameez" and is easily available in many garment stores.
