INDIA FAQ

Your questions answered about our India trip!

Visualize the experience

highlights

Experience India

-Experience the Taj Mahal
-Safari drives in Ranthambore National Park
-Exploring markets and old neighborhoods in Old Delhi
-Heritage tour in Jaipur
-Dining on incredible Indian Cuisine

Have a question about the trip?

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Travelers need a visa to visit India for Business or Tourism for a maximum stay of 180 days in one calendar year. An India eVisa is the fastest and easiest way to obtain a visa because travelers can submit their applications and supporting documents online.

What type of luggage is best for visiting India?

We recommend using a travel backpack for your convenience or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a maximum of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

What is the official language of India?

Hindi is India's most widely spoken language; however, countless others are spoken in different regions. These include Bengali, Punjabi, Gujarati, and more. A very high standard of English is spoken in towns and cities nationwide.

How should I dress when traveling in India?

All personal opinions and fashion preferences aside, the reality is that your clothing in India will affect how locals perceive you. India is still a male-dominated and mostly conservative society with an equally conservative dress code in most parts of the country. Below are some handy tips:

  • Cover your shoulders, cleavage, and thighs.
  • Avoid wearing thin spaghetti-strap tops, mini-skirts or shorts, and tight clothing. Tight jeans are okay if you wear a long, loose top or shirt over them.
  • Only wear swimwear at the beach. When you're in a smaller, more remote destination, you might consider wearing a loose t-shirt over your swimwear.
  • Opt for loose-fitting shirts, t-shirts, long dresses, knee-level or below-knee shorts, pants, and skirts.
  • Clothing made from linen or a linen blend is excellent to wear in hot weather.
  • If in doubt, always err on the side of modesty when choosing your outfits. Many travelers dress like locals and buy a few harem pants or tunics while traveling through India.

Two things are essential regarding knowing how to dress while traveling through India. You need to feel comfortable in your clothing and respect the local cultures. 

India is a conservative country, and while the dress code may appear a little more relaxed in some large cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, elsewhere, it’s appropriate and polite to dress modestly, keeping your shoulders and knees covered. This applies to male and female visitors and is especially imperative when visiting a mosque, temple, mausoleum, or any other religious building.

Do I need a power adapter?

Yes. Here are some suggestions for power adapters when traveling in India.

Travelers to India typically need a Type D or Type M electrical socket adapter. Type D sockets have three round pins in a triangular pattern, while Type M sockets have three large, round pins. Both are commonly used in India. Travelers would not need all three types (C, D, and M), but having an adapter for either Type D or Type M should cover their needs during their trip.

What is the food like in India?

The food in India is delicious and will probably be a massive highlight of your Indian experience. Allow yourself time to adjust when you arrive in the country, and always go for freshly prepared snacks. Remember, queues are a good thing; a busy stall means food is prepared and eaten fast, so it is less likely to have gone bad. Avoid meat on the street and be wary of juice stalls and pre-sliced fruit that may have been doused in water.

Some of our favorite dishes:

Panipuri–hollow puffed balls filled with potato mixture and served with sweet and tangy pani (water).
Bhelpur –a savory snack made of puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
Stuffed paratha – layered flatbread stuffed with potatoes/vegetables/coconut shred/paneer.
Bhaji–spicy Indian snack dish, like a fritter, most popular are onion, cauliflower, and paneer, but the varieties are endless.
Samosa—a fried pastry with a vegetable or meat filling—typically uses spiced potatoes, lentils, lamb mince, or combinations.

For dessert, try one of the many lassies, a local milkshake that can also be served savory, or rabri, a sweet milk-based dessert–super-rich in flavor, so you may want to share! Or try jalebi with ice cream, deep-fried sweet pretzels that every street vendor will entice you with!

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper, soap, or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. You can find flushable, Western-style toilets in up-market restaurants, higher-end hotels, and tourist areas.

Can I drink tap water in India?

India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now­–let your inner child rejoice!

Are vaccinations required to travel to India?

Immunizations are not required to visit India. (Exception: if you are traveling from an area infected with Yellow Fever, you must have a certificate.)

Depending on the season and region of travel, certain vaccinations, and medications are suggested, and we will recommend preventative measures. 

We encourage all travelers to be current on routine immunizations and tetanus and hepatitis A vaccines, as your physician recommends. 

For detailed information, please contact your physician or visit the CDC website: https://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel

How much should I budget for food and activities?

We suggest bringing 350 USD in cash to be used at establishments that do not accept credit cards.

This is not a total cash amount that you should expect to spend on your trip. Please consider your own spending habits for additional expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities.

Are ATMs available in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but Visa and Mastercard are more likely to be successful. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

Can I bargain at the markets?

In India, people bargain everywhere. However, please be respectful and not overly aggressive. Bargaining for lower prices with the shop vendors can be exhilarating and fun, plus a new style of shopping for many of us.

Will there be opportunities to do laundry on this trip?

You can do laundry at the accommodations in Ranthambore National Park on day four and Jaipur on day six. Please ask the hotel staff upon arrival.

Are ATMs available in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but Visa and Mastercard are more likely to be successful. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Many cafés, shops, restaurants, and accommodations in India accept credit cards, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. Cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.

Will there be opportunities to do laundry on this trip?

You can do laundry at the accommodations in Ranthambore National Park on day four and Jaipur on day six. Please ask the hotel staff upon arrival.

What are the trains like?

Both trains included in this itinerary are express trains. 

On day three, the Delhi to Agra train will be in an air-conditioned chair car. On day four, the Bharatpur to Sawai Madhopur train will travel in an air-conditioned sleeper class.

What are the safari vehicles like?

Our groups will be using the Canter (open-roof bus) safari vehicle. This safari vehicle is open from all sides to explore wildlife in the forest of Ranthambore National Park, providing the best wildlife viewing experience.

Travelers will be exposed to the sun in these open-roof vehicles, so we recommend using a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to avoid sunburn.

Is India a safe country?

For its size, India has a very low crime rate and is generally a safe country. However, as with any international travel, please be aware of your surroundings. Always zip your purse and carry your wallet in your front pocket. 

Be vigilant in the markets and avoid pickpockets and distraction scams. Additionally, monitor your luggage at train/bus stations and airports.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The majority of Indian society is still conservative. While most travelers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in more remote towns and villages, which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples, as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.

Can I opt out of an included activity?

Of course! This trip is your trip, and you don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to. Just be aware that opting out of included activities will not change the trip's price.

Do you have last-minute deals?

Yes! When travelers take advantage of our “Switch Your Trip” program, last-minute slots open up on sold-out trips. Visit our Trips On Sale page for the latest last-minute deals. Sign up to the list to be notified.

Have a question that is not on this list?

Feel free to reach out to our all-star customer service team at info@under30experiences.com

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