India is a land of contrasts that contains modern cities well unto 21st Century and an ancient past frozen in the yesteryears of bullock carts and snake charmers. History lives in India in multiple magnitude - massive forts to glittering palaces, exotic temples, and beaches.
The country is bestowed in the North with mighty Himalayas, the highest and the youngest mountain ranges on Earth. The country has a large and impressive coastline surrounding its three sides which enrich its economy and maritime wealth.
Topography of India is no where consistent hence amazing geographical and zoo geographical diversity is the landmark quotient of the country. Deserts, grasslands and, dense forests, hilly ranges and bird sanctuaries, nature reserves offer best in eco-tourism and nature treks in India. The vast spread promises all splendors that do exist on Earth.
Kerala in India lies in the southern most part of the country facing the Arabian Sea. It is one of the most upcoming tourist destination in South India. Kerala state is famous for backwater houseboat tours beach holidays and Ayurvedic spas.
India Travel
Weather & Climate
The climatic in India varies from region to region. The cool winds dominate from November to March. The hot dry weather starts from April onwards and ends June. The monsoon begins anytime after mid June and many parts of the country witness torrential rains. Pleasant Sunshine and cool winds accord relief in October up to March.
Entry & Visa Requirement
Passports / Visas: Tourists from foreign countries including UK & Ireland require a visa to travel in India. British and Irish nationals passport should have minimum validity of 6 months prior to applying for the visa.
Health and Medical
Vaccination is not necessary for traveling to India for tourists from UK and Ireland. Travelers from Africa, South America and Papua New Guinea must have Yellow Fever Certification. Inoculation for diseases as typhoid, hepatitis and meningitis is advised.
Indian Currency
Rupee is Indian currency. R's. One Rupee is equals hundred paisas. Coin denominations are of 50 Paisa, 1, 2 and 5 Rupees as well. Denominations of Rupee is in R's. 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Rs. Money can be exchanged at International airports.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are operational in metropolitan India and in large number of smaller cities. Many commercial establishments like malls, markets, hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards of American Express, Master card and Visa.
Languages
English is popular language all over India followed by Hindi which is the National Language and many regional languages as Gujarat, Kashmir, Telegu, Bengali, Marathi, Garwali, Tamil, Urdu, Malayalam, Kannada, Punjabi, Oriya, Assamese and Sindhi. India has plethora of dialects and regional language versions.
Religions
India is a secular democratic country which accepts equality of all religions and peaceful co-existence. The Major religions are Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. Others are Buddhists, Sikhs, Jews, Jains and Zoroastrians.
Lodging & Boarding
There are five star hotels, luxury hotel accommodation and Lodges available in India. Many states offer home stays for close cultural experience. Indian food is varied and spicy. Those not used to hot and spicy foods should inform before hand for meals to be made less spicy.
Gratuity
In restaurants and hotels 10% tax or service charge is added. Tipping is popular but optional. It is customary to tip, guides, helpers, chefs, , wait staff, porters, and drivers.
Electrical Appliance Usage
Voltage is 220 AC, 50 cycles, round pin plugs and sockets are in use. One should check voltage before using an electrical appliance. It is useful to carry plug adaptors.
Open Timings
Working hours may vary in different parts of the country. But usually: Indian Banks: 1000 to 1400 (Mon. to Fri.), and 1000 to 1200 (Sat.). International hotels have 24 hr money changing facility. Indian Post Offices: 1000 to 1700 (Mon. to Fri.) and Saturday mornings. Business & Offices: 0930 to 1700 (Mon. to Fri.), 0930-1300 (Sat.). Retail Shops: 0930 to 1800 (Mon. to Sat.).
National Holidays
- 26 - Jan Republic Day
- 15 Aug Independence Day
- Mahatma’s Birth day 2 Oct
For other holidays contact Tourist Offices, London (Tel: 020 7437 3677)
For visitors Taj Mahal at Agra is closed on Friday, Ajanta Caves on Monday and Ellora Caves on Tuesday. Red fort at New delhi is closes each Monday.
Indian Postal System
Postage stamps are available at the hotels. Airmail delivery to UK is week long or can be more. Internet
connections are available in most hotels, GPO's and cafes.
Photography & Filming Charges
India is a thematic gold mine for the photographers - colorful people, ancient historical monuments, wildlife, fairs and festivals. At most places still photographers and video makers have to pay a fee. The professional photographer and professional film makers need permission from Archaeological Survey of India, Janpath Road, New Delhi-110001, Tel. 00-91-11-23012058/23019487 (2) Photography in National Parks is on payment of a fee to the Wildlife Warden; (3) Photography is not allowed in public properties, tribal areas & defense sector.
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