Travel FAQs

Passport and Visa.

To enter India, international travelers must have a passport that is valid for six months after the date of entry. You also are required to have a visa. Travelers from most countries can apply for a visa online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ or https://cibtvisas.com/.

Travel Insurance.

Our team recommends that travelers have insurance for trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. You can typically obtain this insurance along with your international flight.

Health.

Before traveling, check with your doctor to make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date. Remember to carry along your medications and a copy of your prescriptions in case you need need to obtain medication in country. It is a good idea to bring along mosquito repellent and sun screen. Be sure to travel with hand sanitizer and tissues; public restrooms are not always equipped.

Clothing.

Rural areas of India may be conservative, so plan your wardrobe accordingly. Women may want to cover their legs and upper arms so as not to attract unwanted attention. Morning safaris in an open jeep can be cool; you’ll be happy wearing layers of warm clothing that you can shed as the day warms up. It is customary to remove footwear when entering temples; so bring socks if don’t want to go barefoot.

Language.

In the cities English and Hindi are commonly spoken. Your driver will be able to help out with local dialects.

Photography.

There are generally no restrictions for snapping photos and recording videos, but some sites charge an extra fee for using your camera. Be respectful when photographing people; ask permission with a smile and don’t be surprised if your subject wants your photo in return!

Money.

The national currency is rupees, abbreviated INR or [rupee symbol]. Because the rupee is a closed currency and is difficult to get outside of India, you may have to wait until arriving to exchange currency. Banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200,500 and 2000 denominations. Use a currency conversion app such as XE Currency on your mobile phone. Your hotel may exchange money, but don’t be surprised if some of your paper money is rejected as too old or damaged. ATMs in India accept most major credit cards for cash transactions. Major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards; be sure to check the conversion rate and account for any international currency fees tacked on to the total amount.

Tipping.