SOME USEFUL INFORMATION ON INDIA

PASSPORT AND VISA - Formalities

  • All travelers to India must have a valid passport and valid six months after the date of return, and a visa.
  • Indian visa can be obtained from the Consulate or Embassy of India in the country of residence.
  • One should ask for a tourist visa "Multiple Entry" to simplify the procedure for entry into neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan.
  • Electronic Travel Authorisation has been launched. So we can give the link for obtaining the visa on line: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html
  • You also have the option of applying for a traditional visa through VFS or through Indian Embassy and Consulate in your respective country
  • The current price is US$ 70.00 or Euro 50.00 per person per visa and is normally valid for six months.For more information check with the Consulate or Embassy of India in your country.


  • HEALTH
  • It is always advisable to consult your doctor before starting tour and be informed about the precautions required to be taken for diseases like Malaria , H1N1, Intestinal/ Gastric problems.
  • It is strongly advised to bring an anti mosquito Lotion/Cream/ Repellent . Electricity in India operates in 220 volts.
  • Do not forget also to bring a sunscreen with high SPF lip balm, sunglasses and a hat or scarf and in winter, a good moisturizing cream, because of cold & Dry weather.


  • VACCINES
  • No vaccinations are required to enter Indian territory.
  • But it is strongly advised to upgrade to vaccines such as diphtheria, typhoid, tetanus, polio , H1N1 and BCG.
  • For other vaccines against rabies, meningitis, hepatitis A and B, one should consult their doctor.


  • HYGIENE
  • It is advisable to take some basic hygiene precautions, especially for non bottled drinks and never drink tap water.
  • Drinking mineral water from a sealed bottle ( opened in front of you) or chemically disinfected with tablets or hydroclonazone micropure (also for brushing teeth).
  • Avoid ice cubes, fruit juice with water, unboiled milk and ice cream (except big brands like Kwality Walls, Nirula's, Mother Dairy, Amul's etc. are reliable).


  • CURRENCY
  • The local currency is the Indian rupee. Abbreviation: 'Rs' or 'INR' (Indian National Rupee).
  • US$ & Euros can be easily changed at various Thomas cook branches or in various Indian banks.
  • The credit card is accepted in many shops.
  • It is advisable to bring travelers cheques, American Express or Thomas Cook and a small reserve of cash in Euros or U.S $.

    TIME DIFFERENCE
  • GMT + 05:30 Hours New Delhi, India
  • GMT + 05:45 Hours Kathmandu, Nepal
  • GMT + 06:00 Hours Thimphu, Bhutan


  • RECOMMENDATIONS
  • We would recommend reading travel guides in India, such as LONELY PLANET GALLIMARD guide on Rajasthan (with its little anecdotes and beautiful photos) and the GUIDE BLUE push its unique cultural information.
  • Remember to request a "Wake-Up Call" to the front desk for you to wake up early enough in case of train, domestic flight or international flight early morning. From downtown Delhi airport, be aware that it takes one hour. Two and a half hours to three hours are required for check-in at the international airport.
  • Remember to reconfirm your international ticket to return at least 72 hours before your departure by calling the airlines. Our local representative in India, will be very pleased to offer its service to reconfirm your international ticket if you provide the relevant details to us upon arrival.
  • Remember that you bring a flashlight, especially during monsoon when the power cuts are (unfortunately) frequent ... A lamp is also useful to visit some temples and caves.