India
The land that continues to mesmerize with it's larger than life image. The aura that is spellbinding, captivating and fascinating. A land where spiritualism breathes in and out, where gods reside, where everyday is an occasion, where the forts and palaces still echo the bugle of victory, where you witness the arena of intellectual exchange, where the mustard fields delight you and the village life attracts you.
India is a land of colourful contrasts, and home to some of the most breathtaking scenery and architecture in the world. It is a land full of surprises, from magnificent palaces and luxury trains to beautiful beaches and amazing game parks. Its culture, colour, cuisine and diverse attractions make it one of the most rewarding experiences on Earth.
India is renowned for its friendliness and charm; its vibrancy and spirituality; its luxury and its hospitality; it's excitement and tranquillity. It is a land waiting to welcome you 'Atithi Devo Bhavah'.
WEATHER:
Due to the size of the country, India's climate varies greatly from North to South. Generally, October to March is the most pleasant time to go, when the weather is dry and not too hot. The monsoon season starts at the beginning of June in the South, reaching the North by about July, however it is usually over by late September.
TIME:
India is 5.5 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Suggested Travelling Times For Specific Interests:
Himalayas: April to September is the optimum time to travel in the mountains.
Tiger Spotting: April – June is considered the best time for viewing tigers in action.
Visiting Ladakh: June – August is the perfect time for trips to Ladakh (Little Tibet), famous for its mountain beauty, Buddhist culture and excellent trekking.
Ayurveda: During the Monsoon season of extreme heat and torrential rain, the body is cooler and much more responsive to Ayurvedic treatments.
CURRENCY, MONEY EXCHANGE & CREDIT CARDS:
The currency of India is Rupee (Rs). One rupee is equal to 100 paise. Notes come in the denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees. Rupees in large numbers may not be brought out of India.
UK Pounds / American dollars are easy to exchange at the cashier's desk in the hotels, which will require your passport for identification. Always be sure to keep your exchange certificates/documents in order to re-convert any rupees into UK Pounds / U.S. dollars at the end of the trip. The cashier will give these certificates/documents to you after exchanging your currency.
Major credit cards are gaining acceptance in India, the most common are American Express and Visa. These cards can be used at the hotels. Local markets and roadside vendors generally do not accept the cards. Advise your credit card companies that you would be using their credit cards while overseas, so they will be less likely to question your foreign charges and possibly freeze your account.
In any case it is not recommended to rely on any one form of exchange when visiting India. You should carry with you a combination of cash, traveller's cheques and credit card/s.
ELECTRIC CURRENT:
The electric current is 220 volts. To use any electrical appliances, you will need to bring both an electricity converter and a plug adaptor.
PASSPORTS & VISA:
Australian citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months following their return home. Tourist visas are required for Australian citizens. If you are not an Australian citizen, please contact the embassy of your country or Indian embassy to be sure you obtain the proper documentation. Forms are easily available even at the India Tourist Office.
IMMUNIZATIONS & INOCULATIONS:
The Indian embassy recommends that visitors obtain prophylactic treatment for Cholera, Typhoid, Malaria and Hepatitis. For further details you may contact Indian Embassy. We strongly suggest checking with your personal physician regarding your particular needs.
TIPPING:
Tipping, though not mandatory, is customary in India. At no point of time it is compulsory to tip. However, to give you a brief idea, at restaurants and hotels the general tipping is 10% of the total bill. Where the general tipping to the guide/drivers/helpers is concerned, it all depends upon the individual. It can be Rs. 100- 200 per person for the guide and Rs. 50-100 per person/per day for the drivers/helpers.
SHOPPING:
India offers a variety in terms of shopping. While Delhi is particularly noted for its textiles, paintings and sculptures and carpets, Agra is famous for its marble with intricate designs. Jaipur is famous for jewellery, textiles and carpets. Other popular items include metal craft – silver, brass and copper for both decorative and functional use.
While bargaining is expected at open markets, it is not the norm in government stores or upmarket shops. However if you are considering the purchase of an expensive item, you may ask for a discount. Shipping and VAT procedures should be enquired and understood properly before making a purchase.
FOOD & DRINK:
Tap water is not recommended for travellers. Drink only bottled water, and be sure the bottle is sealed. Avoid Tap water and drinking fountains. Do not drink juices or use ice cubes unless you are sure they were made with purified water.
Indian cuisine is not only the curry dishes typically found in restaurants in Australia. It varies widely by region and even by religion. Generally, however, the hotels try to offer meals with variety of Indian dishes adapted to western palate, as well as continental fare. It is best to avoid street food and dairy products (unless you can be sure of pasteurization. Always be sure to eat only thoroughly cooked food and fruit & vegetables that you can peel yourself.
While many Indians are vegetarians, many others are not, and meat is widely available. Hindus in general do not eat beef & Muslims do not eat pork. Much of the North India is based on Mughal tradition, superb curries with sauces of cream and ground nuts and raisin, tandoor (clay over) dishes, kebabs, baked breads and naan and roti.
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