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India Travel Tips |
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described in
various tour programs, there is a certain amount of flexibility
built into the itinerary. On occasion it may be necessary, or
desirable to make alterations to the itinerary. We make the
itinerary brief as due to various circumstances, we never know
exactly where our journey will take us. Due to the mode of
transportation and the regions visited, at times the journey may be
unpredictable and the itinerary will need to be revised. The
itinerary for every trip provides a general schedule for the tour,
and an outline for the destinations along the journey. While
specific destinations or visits to wildlife areas may be included
in an itinerary, due to different circumstances it is not
guaranteed that they will be visited, or wildlife encountered.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations and may
vary due to local events, conditions and more.
Important Notes:
1. India is a country that is very different from other countries
you have visited. While this means it is not the easiest place to
travel through, this makes India different and interesting to
travelers. The pollution, poverty and crowded cities you see during
your travels can cause culture shock, but if you came to experience
India, then you will see it as an exciting experience. As in any
travels abroad to a different country, you should always expect to
encounter some difficulties along your journeys.
2. In India its people have different attitudes to time keeping,
public cleanliness, privacy and service. Trains will sometimes be
late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and there will be
power losses. Restaurant menus may only offer one dish. Everyone
you encounter will want to know our name. Patience and a healthy
sense of humor will help make your journey fun, and enlightening
for you.
3. From March 1st, 2009 a 1300 Indian Rupee (approximately 28 USD)
User Development Fund will be charged for passengers leaving on
International and Domestic flights from Delhi Airport. The Fee is
to be paid by passengers directly to GMR at their counter at the
airport before departure on your journey. Please note that infants
are exempt from UDF. The fee is not a departure tax but goes to the
ongoing construction and development of the Delhi International
Airport.
Your Fellow Travelers:
When you travel with a group tour you will be exposed to all the
pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a
group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of
the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you
to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your
group. Patience with your fellow travelers will benefit everyone's
travel experience. Please remember as a member of a tour group, you
must be responsible for being on time when you need to meet the
group. If you're running late, it can impact the others in the
group and also the travel schedule. We have found time and time
again that the very best trips we operate are those where the
dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little
effort on your part. |
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Train:
The best way to see India is traveling on our national railway
system. In fact, no visit to India would be complete without the
experience of traveling on a train and negotiating the busy railway
stations. The chaos in the Indian railway stations is indicative of
life in India. India's trains not only are a mode of
transportation, but will offer you an odyssey as you travel through
some of the most exotic and exciting cities and countryside in the
world. So just sit back, relax, and enjoy your trip.
Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. uses a combination of AC 2 tier,
AC 3 tier and sleeper class (for overnight journeys) and AC Chair
car or second-class seats for day journeys.
There are no restaurant or buffet cars on Indian Railways, but on
long-distance trains you can order food from an attendant in your
train car. Regular stops are made at stations where food is also
available and on some trains many vendors board the train selling
chai, cold drinks, crisps and biscuits.
Don't expect pristine western standards anywhere in India, but
you'll find AC2, AC3 and AC Chair class fairly clean by Indian
standards, with both western-style and squat toilets usually
reasonable, sanitary conditions. Sleeper Class and second-class
toilets may be a different matter! Bring your own toilet paper and
soap to wash your hands.
Indian trains are quite safe to travel on, even for families or
women traveling alone. Although the theft of luggage is rare, for
peace of mind it's advised that you take along a chain and padlock
to secure your bags. You can acquire chain and padlock at all
Indian rail stations.
Generally, Indian Railways are very efficient, but Indian trains do
run late-sometimes hours late. Make sure you have something to
occupy your time while waiting for your train. Bring a good book or
magazine to read, or music to listen to. It's advised you bring
snacks and water for the journey. |
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Road
Traveling by road in India or Nepal is certainly not what
people are used to in Western countries. Rules of the road are not
always followed: drivers will speed, do not stay in their lanes,
will drive recklessly creating dangerous situations, rarely use
their mirrors or will not drive with their lights on at night time.
The horn however is used very frequently and can range from the
latest Bollywood tune to Britney Spears! In India, although the
government is investing large sums of money improving the road
infrastructure, the road system still has a lot of work that needs
to be done to it. As a result, in both India and Nepal, some of the
roads are poorly maintained, pot holed and uneven. This gets even
more pronounced particularly during and after the monsoon. Travel
time covering relatively short distances is very long in comparison
to Western countries. |
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Joining Instructions:
When arriving at the airport in New Delhi taking a cab is the most
convenient way to get to your hotel. Because taxi drivers are
famous for tampering with their meters and overcharging, use the
prepaid taxi service offered at the airport - you can make the
arrangements at designated counters outside the baggage-claim area
of the domestic terminals and international terminal. Unfortunately
scammers have set up similar services, so make sure the counter is
operated by the Delhi Traffic Police. Your destination, the time of
your arrival and the amount of luggage determine the rate, which
you pay in advance at the counter, but should be between
INR200-300. Take the receipt and locate your assigned taxi. Taxis
are black with yellow tops and have yellow number plates. Once you
get into the taxi, don't give the driver the payment slip until you
reach your destination. If the driver demands more rupees, politely
refuse, although if they have driven safely you may like to tip
INR10-20.
Be aware too, that touts at the airports, even at hotel-reservation
counters, may try to trick you into booking a hotel room by
claiming that your prior reservation is invalid. Ignore them.
If this is your first trip to India an arrival transfer is
recommended. If you have paid for an arrival transfer when you
booked your trip our driver/local operator will be waiting for you
with a Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. sign with your name on
it. Once you exit baggage claim, watch for our driver/local
operator in the arrival area. Our representative for Airport
transfers is Mr. Nagarjuna Rao and his mobile number is (+91) 99274
65808. |
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Laundry:
Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a
small charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to
do your own laundry so we suggest you bring
non-polluting/biodegradable soap. |
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Visas:
Please note that visas for India are the responsibility of the
individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary
depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the
most up-to-date information please check your government's foreign
ministry website or with you travel agent as rules do change. It is
important that you check for yourself. For most travelers there is
probably an embassy and or consulate in the country that you live
in.
Standard Indian tourist visas are good for 6 months with multiple
entry points and exit points. They are not available at port of
entry AND must be obtained in advance. |
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Money Exchange:
The currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often so the best
thing to do is visit this website for daily exchange rates:
www.xe.com As of March 2009 the exchange rate for INDIA was 1 USD =
48.45 INR (Indian Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept
both Visa and MasterCard but these are limited to major cities. We
also recommend the use of cash and travelers checks in USD
currency. Major currencies that are readily accepted by private
money exchangers and banks are US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Euro,
Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar etc. Major credit cards are
accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee. |
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Tipping for guides, drivers, porters etc:
It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as
waiters approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is
expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of
satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour.
Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable
significance to the people who will take care of you during your
travels. There are several times during the trip where there is
opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do
this individually, or your Tour Leader will offer to collect the
money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and
local guides would range from USD 2-4 per person per day depending
on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for
specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
Also at the end of each trip if you felt your Classic Holidays
(India) Pvt. Ltd. Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is
appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however
as a guideline USD20-25 per person, per week can be used. |
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Departure Tax:
All departure taxes should be included in your international
flight ticket.
Health:
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel
information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a
First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please
be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from
medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are
prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache
tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the
same western drugs that you can purchase at home but they are
usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with
you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting
your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and
assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer
to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific
information. For travelers over 70 years a completed Medical Form
is required. Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right
to exclude any traveler from all or part of a trip with or without
partial refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader
they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to
themselves and/or the rest of the group. |
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Safety and Security:
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice
service on safety issues involved with international travel. We
recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest
travel information before departure. We also strongly recommend the
use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe
keeping of your passport, airline tickets, travelers' checks, cash
and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you
won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have
safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your
valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When
travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has
the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if
it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will
accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will
have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it
easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will
assist you with options available in a given location please note
that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your
itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the
activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use
your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free
time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during
the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city
at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to
take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time
excursions.
Water-based activities while exciting, can be dangerous. Classic
Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. recommends only participating in
water-based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make
every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element
of any water-based activities (in countries with varying degrees of
operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is
Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. policy not to allow our Tour
Leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water-based
activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. takes all prudent measures in
relation to your safety. |
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A Couple of Rules:
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or
using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts
the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a
part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not
acceptable for Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. travelers. Our
philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we
encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world
the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is
completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the
right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their
possession or they use prostitutes. |
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Responsible Travel:
Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what
Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. is all about. From the start,
Classic Holidays has been committed to offering low-impact tours
that benefit traveler and host alike. While our sustainable tourism
policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially
conscious, grassroots-style travel has never changed. We work with
local communities, businesses and individuals to develop
sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while
minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.
Here are a.
-Bring rechargeable batteries, a battery charger and plug adapter
if necessary. Batteries are incredibly toxic and many places that
we travel cannot properly dispose of used batteries. Rechargeable
batteries are the best solution, however if you cannot use
rechargeable batteries, then please bring your used batteries back
home with you for proper disposal
-If you want to shoot a photograph with people in their own
element, or in a situation during your travels, please ask for
their permission prior to taking the photograph. As a stranger,
it's only polite to ask before shooting. People do not like
photographs taken of children without asking for permission first. |
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Local Dress:
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back
home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing
that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of
Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim
countries we ask that you respect their customs and dress
appropriately. Short shorts or skirts, singlets/tanktops and other
"risqué" clothing is inappropriate when visiting small rural
communities, temples, mosques or other holy sites.
India is very conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a
general guideline shoulders and knees should be covered at all
times. You may wear shorts however you may be denied entry into
buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A lightweight
water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat to shade your face
is essential.
NB: WE STRESS THAT IT CAN BE VERY COLD IN THE HILLS DURING THE
MONTHS FROM DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY.
NB: During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to
meet and "talk" with locals. One way to start any conversation is
with pictures of your family, home, city, animals to discuss. |
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What to Take:
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and
the regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as
lightly as possible as you are expected to carry your own luggage
during your travels. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than
15-20 minutes with your bag which is why we recommend keeping the
weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases can be
brought for Classic Holidays trips! Most travelers carry a backpack
or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as
they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains.
You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other
electronics like ipods and mobile phones. If your trip involves
overnight home stays, villages or camping then you usually have the
opportunity to rent sleeping bags if need be instead of bringing
them with you. |
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Checklist:
. Passport (with photocopies)
. Travel insurance (with photocopies)
. Airline tickets (with photocopies)
. USD cash and travelers cheques
. Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
. Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. Vouchers (Will be given at the
time of arrival in India)
. Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
. Day pack for daily personal items
. Lock for all bags
. Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
. Alarm clock
. Flashlight
. Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
. Insect Repellent
. Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
. Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
. Small towel and swim wear
. Toiletries (biodegradable)
. Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
. Money belt
. Shorts
. Long trousers
. Hiking pants/track pants
. Shirts/T-shirts
. Warm clothes for November-February. Fleece jacket, hat and gloves
. Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
. Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
. Camera and film
. Reading/writing material
. Binoculars
. Pocketknife
. First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids,
anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of
diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be
taking).
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Tips to enjoy safety trip
First things first
There are a number of things that you should do before leaving home
to help you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience:
. Take copies of your passport and other important documents with
you. This way, if you lose your documents, you can at least present
a copy to your embassy or consulate while abroad and have
replacement or temporary travel documents issued. A tip we received
from one of our seasoned travelers was to scan the documents, and
send them to your e-mail. That way you have additional access to
them on-line.
. We suggest registering your travel plans with your embassy or
consulate before leaving home. Should a serious event occur, your
Government will be able to make contact and account for you.
. Take out appropriate insurance. No one ever expects an injury or
accident to happen. However, we have a number of unfortunate
stories from travelers and they usually start with: "I never
expected."
. Leave a copy of your itinerary with friends or family. |
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Transport
The travel experience will expose you to many different types and
forms of transport. While you'll have a chance to enjoy the
different means of travel, you need to be aware of any possible
dangers associated with those modes of transportation. Some of
these may be familiar to you and just a matter of commonsense, and
some may not. We've listed below the top 5 tips received from
experienced Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. travelers: |
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Air travel
. Pay attention to the in-flight briefing. It may seem monotonous
or boring to those who travel often, but in the event of an
emergency, you will need to know how to exit the airline quickly
and safely.
. Count the rows to the emergency exit. Because in case of an
emergency, lighting may be reduced or totally off in the plane.
. Don't drink too much alcohol while flyingl. Cabins are
pressurized so the effect of alcohol is stronger than normal.
. Listen to the flight attendants. They are primarily there for
your safety.
. Keep your seatbelt fastened. Turbulence can occur at anytime. |
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Buses and trains
. Keep your personal belongings in your sight, or preferably on
you.
. A lock placed on your luggage zippers is a good deterrent to a
would-be thief.
. Watch for uneven, slippery surfaces or other obstacles as you
enter and exit the vehicle.
. Remain alert to your surroundings. Be aware of distractions, as
they may be opportunities for pickpockets.
. Know your stop and be ready to get off. |
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Taxies
. If you are staying at a hotel, have them call you a taxi, rather
than waive one down on the street.
. Use taxies from a taxi stand where possible because only
registered operators may use a taxi stand.
. Keep your belongings at your side or feet. If you need to exit
quickly they will be easily accessible.
. If in an emergency situation, leave your bags. You can run faster
without them and items can be replaced.
. Check the Identification of the driver before getting in. It
should be prominently displayed in the vehicle if it is a
legitimate taxi. |
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Water transport
. Listen to the safety briefing. You will need to know what to
do in an emergency.
. If a lifejackets is supplied, use it.
. Always have at least one hand free to hold onto something to help
with your balance during choppy waters.
. The sun reflects off the water, so make sure you have applied
adequate sunscreen lotion.
. Take medication for seasickness prior to boarding - it may take
some time to become effective. |
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Accommodation
Your accommodations are generally considered a safe haven for weary
travelers, however most thefts and accidents occur at the hotel or
other accommodation. To increase your personal safety follow these
safety tips:.
. When arriving, stay with your bags until they are transferred
from the taxi or bus to the Lobby.
. Lobby's can be chaotic places with many people coming and going.
Keep an eye on your bags at all times when checking in and out. The
busy atmosphere is a welcome distraction for pickpockets and thiefs.
. When you enter your hotel room, make sure the door closes firmly
behind you and it locks.
. When in your room lock the door, use the security latch, and lock
windows and connecting room doors.
. Always use the 'spy hole' to see who is at the door before
opening it.
. Know the emergency assistance number, and how to operate the
phone system.
. Store all unneeded personal items, cash, valuables and travel
documents in the in-room safe.
. Take note of the emergency plan on the back of the hotel door.
You will need to know how to exit the hotel in case of an
emergency.
. Place your room key in the same place each time. It avoids losing
it, and you will know where it is in an emergency situation.
. Use the non-slip mats in the shower if provided. |
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Out and About
One of the great ways to experience a new destination is to simply
immerse yourself in the local communities, attractions and the
people. However, as in any city around the world, you need to be
aware of thiefs and other "shady people" in the local community who
prey on the vulnerable. We have received many tips and advise from
our travelers on the best way to do reduce your vulnerability, and
be safe as you visit and take in those amazing sights. The top 10
ways to enhance your personal safety while out and about include:
. Blend in as much as possible, especially in your dress and
appearance. Try to avoid an obvious tourist appearance.
. View maps discreetly. A map identifies you as a tourist, and
unfortunately, a target.
. If disorientated, only ask for directions from uniformed officers
or persons of obvious authority.
. Stay on well-lit or well-trafficked areas and roads. Danger often
lurks in dark and less populated areas.
. Photos are a must when traveling. However, keep the camera
discrete. Many 'point-and-shoot' cameras will fit in your pocket
out of sight when not in use. Do not leave larger ones dangling
around your neck, or other places in plain view.
. When withdrawing money from ATMs try to do so during daylight, in
well trafficked areas and use machines that are associated with a
recognized bank where possible. As with anywhere, protect your
personal pin number by covering the keypad from prying eyes with
your other hand. Once the cash is withdrawn, take time to ensure it
is stashed away safely. Do not do so while walking down the street
advertising the fact you are carrying amounts of cash with you.
. Leave excess cash, travel documents, jewelry in the hotel safe,
or better yet at home if you don't need it while away.
. An experienced pickpocket can usually pick a tourist out in a
crowd. Wear your purse over one shoulder with the opening flap
against your stomach so that it's impossible to get into. If you're
carrying a daypack wear it in front, kangaroo style.
. Where possible avoid walking alone - especially at night.
Traveling with friends makes you much less of a target.
. Take something with the hotel name and address on it with you
like a notepad or matchbox. This way, even if you do not speak the
language, a taxi will be able to take you back to the hotel. |
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Optional Activities
On your Classic Holidays India tour, you will have many
included activities. All of the included activities are properly
vetted and regularly checked by us. However, there will also be
some free time for you to set off on your own. We ask you to use
your discretion when considering optional activities directly with
suppliers. Safety should always be your key consideration, as it is
ours. Ask about their safety practices, history, insurance and
emergency plans. Particular attention should be paid when water
activities are involved, and always insist on traveling with a
guide. |
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Feedback:
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback
information is so important to us that you'll receive a special
discount on your next Classic Holidays India trip if your feedback
is completed on-line within 30 days of returning home.
We Want Your Photos:
If you've got some great photos from your Classic Holidays India
travels, we would love to exhibit your photos on our website! We'll
list your name as the photographer. |
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Keeping in Touch:
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that
you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road,
rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming
increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit,
and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and
travelers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an
emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they
contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency
Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact
you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to
change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking
staff. Our 24 hours contact number is +91 99274 65808. |
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