Exclusive: Summer Hideouts in India

Summer season is presently at peak in most parts of India, and people in plains have become faded with scorching heat. The high temperature, and frequent power failure annoy people and altogether made the life chaotic. However, a trip to summer hideouts (hill stations) of India is a good idea to enjoy a refreshing break from the boring city life.


India’s vast land is dotted with a number of hill stations, and many of them have been developed by the British in 1800s and 1900s. Set thousands metres above the sea level, the hill stations of India enjoys pleasant climate round the year, and offer plenty of sightseeing and leisure activities options. So, plan a trip to the summer hideouts of India, reach and unfurl the un-spoilt natural beauty of this enchanting place and make your vacation a lifetime experience.

Beas River in Manali

Manali: Considered as a wonder for a visitor, Manali is a calm and tranquil hill town, situated 40 kms north of the popular Kullu Valley. Set at an altitude of 1928 m, above the sea level, Manali is an excellent destination for both common tourists as well as the die-hard adventure enthusiasts. Manali is blessed with several gifts like a beautiful landscape, dense thick pine and deodar forests, ice-capped peaks, steep cliffs, rolling valleys, adventure and mystery and lush meadows of wild flowers and fragrant fruit orchard in full bloom. Besides, the Beas River with clear water meanders through the town, making Manali truly a paradise on earth for any traveller. Some of the attractions include Hadimba Temple, Tibetan Monastery, Manali Club House, Vashisth Hot Water Springs, Mountaineering Institute etc.

Nainital: Once used to be the home of noted conservationist Jim Corbett, Nainital is now popular as the 'Lake City of India'. Situated at an altitude of around 1938 metres, Nainital is the largest and one of the most popular hill resorts of Kumaon region. A glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, Nainital has grown around a 'tal' (mountain-lake), blessed with pristine natural beauty and an enchanting landscape.

Discovered in 1841 by a British, Lord Barron, Nainital is always bustling with tourists who flock the city from far and wide. Today, the life of Nainital revolves around the Naini Lake, which mirrors the sun playing hide and seek with the clouds and mountains. Attractions of Nainital include Naini Lake, Snow View, Astronomical Observatory, Hanuman Garhi and The Flatts.

Shimla: One of India's most popular hill stations, picturesque Shimla is the capital of northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Tourists in great numbers visit Shimla all throughout the year. A place gifted with an abundance of natural beauty, the landscape of Shimla is known for its great diversity. Shimla is spread across 12 kms along a ridge and overlooks some magnificent terraced hillsides and cultivations. The rich flora of the place includes dense forests of oak, fur, pine and rhododendron. While a few buildings bring back memories of the colonial past, gorgeous modern buildings also add more charm to the landscape. The views of snow clad mountain ranges of Himalayas from the place are most enchanting. Shimla has also emerged as a popular base for adventure sports like Trekking, Skiing, Fishing and Golf.

The Ridge, Shimla

Dharamsala: A small hill town and a municipal council, Dharamsala is situated in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh. Dharamsala is better known as the home in exile of the Dalai Lama (in McLeodganj) and is divided into two parts namely Upper Dharamsala or McLeod Ganj (retains a British colonial atmosphere) and Lower Dharamsala (busy commercial centre). Although there is a difference of 9 km between Dharamsala and McLeodganj but the latter is considered the real heart of Dharamsala. With prayer flags fluttering and prayer wheels off the sidewalk, McLeodganj is also called the 'Little Lhasa', spreading the message of peace and harmony. Bestowed with thick pine and deodar forests, numerous shimmering streams, pleasant soothing air, spectacular surroundings, the nearby snowline, Dharamasala offers everything that a tourist expects from a hill resort. Besides, the ancient temples like Jawalamukhi, Brijeshwari and Chamunda situated in and around the town add more to your vacationing experience.


Munnar: A very famous hill station located some 130 kms. from Kochi in the state of Kerala. The place lies towards the east, in central Kerala and its borders coincide with that of Tamil Nadu state. The hill station is situated mainly in one of the taluks of Idukki district. One more famous hill station, Kodaikanal, lies nearby, around 90 kms from Munnar. The undulating terrain of Munnar are enchanting, with the low lying hills covered with bright flower meadows and the spread out tea plantations.

The place is located at an average altitude of about 1600 metres and contains one of the highest peaks in South India, Anamudi. The altitude and the nearby Arabian Sea accounts for the pleasant climate that prevails throughout the year. Munnar valley was developed by the Scottish planters in the early 20th century. The tea plantations is an important feature of Munnar. The plantations stand at heights from 4300 ft to 6100 ft above sea level.

Tea Gardens in Munnar

Dehradun: Also known as the 'Abode of Drona', Dehradun is the capital of newly created state of Uttaranchal or Uttarakhand. Set amidst the Great Indian Himalayan ranges, the charming city of Dehradun attracts thousands of tourists from Indian and abroad as well. Apart from a hill resort, Dehradun is also the headquarters of several National Institutes and Organizations such as ONGC, Forest Research Institute, Survey of India etc. Dehradun is home to some of India's noted educational and training institutes like Indian Military Academy, Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) etc. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a common traveller or looking for a spiritual vacation, Dehradun offers everything according to your choice.

Darjeeling: This charming hill station is located near the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders in eastern Indian state of West Bengal. The natural beauty of this hill station is truly mesmerizing. Many opine that in Darjeeling, nature is at its best. Be it the snow capped Himalayan mountain ranges surrounding Darjeeling, the rich flora of the place or the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, Darjeeling is a captivating destination from all aspects. Lush green tea gardens planted at high altitudes in the mountain slopes further adds colour to the Darjeling landscape. Coupled with the beauty of the place is the hospitality of Darjeeling's smiling resilient people which is sure to fill the heart of every tourist with great warmth.
 
 

 

A view of Darjeeling hill station

 

Ooty: The colloquial of Ootacamund is a popular hill station of South India in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu. Also known as, Udhagamandalam, it is a municipality and the district capital. The town lies at an altitude of 2240 m and has been remarked as the 'queen of hill stations' by India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Ooty covers an area of 36 square km and contains the highest point of Southern India, the Dodabetta Peak. The natural surroundings of Ooty involve landscapes, dense forest reserves and national parks. This hill station is popular for its tea farming as well as oil extraction industry, wherein the oil is obtained from its eucalyptus trees, lemon grass, geranium, clove and camphor.

A major attraction is the mountain train journey to Ooty on a ratchet and pinion track. The journey covers 46 km and the train starts from Kallar, near Mettupalayam and passes through steep curves and long tunnels along deep ravines full of green vegetation, streams and tea gardens. The Ooty Lake is a major attraction of the hill station and is popular for boating. Another famous attraction includes the Government Museum, which contains the history of the Nilgiri District. Other popular tourist attractions of Ooty include the Deer Park, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the Rose Garden, Ooty Botanical Garden, the Stone House, etc.

Jammu & Kashmir: The northern most state of India, Jammu & Kashmir is blessed with abundant natural wonders. The natural beauty of Kashmir is indescribable - it is a valley full of joy and happiness with tenderly mountains rising far to protect the lands, meadows with the fragrance and the gentle sun, the drooping snow and the chilly winters, apple orchards and the beautiful lakes; it's cozy, it's warm and always smiling. Kashmir is a major tourist destination and people come for more than one reason. Mesmerized by her beauty, many poets have termed Kashmir as a jannat or paradise on earth.

This heaven of poets brought on to the earth consists of lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, vivacious rivers, clear blue water lakes, beautiful waterfalls and alpine meadows. Also dotting the picturesque landscape are famous temples like Vaishno Devi and Amarnath, attractive mosques and monasteries. Kashmir is also credited for her rich composite culture. The Kashmir valley has largely Muslim population, Hindus are spread in the plains of Jammu while besides being peaceful tourist destinations Leh and Ladakh are primarily Buddhist destinations.

The old houses on a hill at Leh, Ladakh

Mount Abu: Despite being located in the desert land of Rajasthan, the physiography of Mount Abu bears quite a distinction from the rest of the state. The places features productive lands and a pleasant climate. The place lies, comparatively, at a higher altitude and this is the lone hill station in the region around. The place is what can best be described as Cool. The road that leads to the place is rocky and arid. One finds a lot of odd shaped rocks piled along the roadside. Mt Abu is a very famous pilgrimage centre in the state. You can see some important shrines and temples of Jains and Hindus at Mount Abu.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands - A Paradise amidst vast Sea

A storehouse of peerless beauty, the emerald green twin island of Andaman and Nicobar stretch from north to south on the surface of Bay of Bengal. Here, the days are bathed in bright sunshine and fresh gentle breeze all the time. These altogether attract tourists who want to recharge their body and collect some new ideas. In addition to these, the canopy of blue sky, cool blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, silvery beaches, gaily coloured fishes frolicking in the shallow waters, exquisite coral and aquatic plants, illustrate that like an expert architect nature has skilfully build the Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Constituted by a union of 572 islands, Andaman and Nicobar spread over an area of 8,249 sq. kms. Of the 572 islands, only 36 are inhabited and rest are still uninhabited. The Andamanese town of Port Blair is the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands. The island groups of the Andaman and Nicobar, separate the Andaman Sea to the east from the Indian Ocean. Nicobar islands are situated south of the Andamans and 121 kms from the Little Andaman Island. Andaman and Nicobar islands are 193 kms away from Cape Negrais in Myanmar, 1190 kms from Chennai, 1255 kms from Kolkata.

Climate - Andaman and Nicobar islands have a tropical climate that never reaches to extreme. During the monsoon seasons of May to mid September and November to mid December, medium to heavy rain is recorded. Rains and tropical storms in late summer often cause heavy damage to these islands. In summers, the temperature in Andaman and Nicobar islands reaches to a maximum of 31°C while it drops to a minimum of 23°C.

Best Time to Visit - December to April.

Tourist Destinations of Andaman and Nicobar

Andaman and Nicobar islands can be said a land of sea, sand and surf. Port Blair, the major town on the Andaman and Nicobar islands serves as the administrative capital. Port Blair has a number of markets, where you can buy local handicrafts, clothes, wooden items etc. Apart from shopping markets, Port Blair also houses a number of tourist attractions like the Cellular Jail, Anthropological museum, Marine museum, Fisheries museum etc. From Port Blair, you can also visit the popular islands of Neil and Havelock, which are easily accessible from the capital town.

People & Culture of Andaman and Nicobar

Referred as the ‘land of tribals’, Andaman and Nicobar is home to the most primitive tribes of the world. Of the six aboriginal tribes found in the islands, five are primitive tribes that include the Shompens, the Onges, the Sentinelese, the Jarawas and the Great Andamanese. People from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), Sri Lanka, Mynamar and South Indians from Tamil Nadu and Kerala have come to live in Andaman for last few decades. Andamanese culture is a blend of several cultures and you will also find the touch of Indian culture. Fishing is the main source of livelihood for Andamanese people and the tribes are dependent on hunting.

Fairs and Festivals of Andaman and Nicobar

Andaman and Nicobar are mainly the home of the tribal people, but in these islands you will observe a unique culmination of several Indian cultures. Among the various festivals, most popular include Durga Puja, Janmasthami, Holi, Deewali, Onam, Pongal and Christmas. The fortnight long Island Tourism Festival is the main festival of the Andaman and Nicobar islands, which highlights excellent art and crafts, unique marine life and traditional dances and songs of Port Blair.

Cuisine of Andaman and Nicobar

Sea food like lobster, prawn and several other sea-fish dishes constitute the principle cuisine of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Most of the islands hotels offer delicious sea fish dishes at a reasonable price. Apart from sea-fish, you can also savour delectable South Indian food at various eating joints. Few hotels and restaurant serve Chinese food, Continental and Western cuisine as well.

Monuments & Museums of Andaman and Nicobar

Due to their historic connection, Andaman and Nicobar islands boast of a number of magnificent monuments. Most important forts and monuments of the islands include Cellular Jail, Viper Island, Ross Island etc. Famous museums of Andaman and Nicobar islands include the Anthropological Museum, National Memorial, Fisheries Museum, Samudrika (Naval Marine Museum), Forest Museum, Zoological Survey of India Museum. You can visit these museums by paying nominal charges.

Beaches of Andaman and Nicobar

Beaches are prime attraction of Andaman and Nicobar that make these islands an ideal beach holiday destination. Most popular beaches of Andaman and Nicobar islands include the Corbyn’s Cove Tourism Complex, Radhanagar Beach, Karmatang Beach, Harminder Bay Beach, Ramnagar Beach etc.

Wildlife of Andaman and Nicobar

Most of Andaman and Nicobar area is covered with canopied rain forests where you can see 3,000 plant species including mangroves, woody climbers, epiphytes (100 orchids, 130 ferns), palms, timbers (teak, mahogany, Andamant paduk etc.) and several other variety of tropical forests. Andaman and Nicobar also provide shelter to diverse Marine fauna including tropical fish and coral. These islands have 96 sanctuaries spreading over 466.218 sq kms and nine National Parks spreading over 1153.938 sq kms.

Adventure in Andaman and Nicobar

Blessed with magical Bay of Bengal all around, wonderful tropical vegetation with lush green dense forests and mangrove marshland on the water’s edge, Andaman and Nicobar offer plenty of adventure options for adventure freaks. Water Sports like Snorkelling and Diving, Surfing etc. top the adventure chart in Andaman and Nicobar islands. In addition to these, you can also enjoy trekking on thrilling tails of the islands. Island Camping is another good option which is attracting lots of foreigner to Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Shopping in Andaman and Nicobar

Port Blair is the main shopping centre, where you can shop multi hued corals and seashell souvenirs. Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair is the main commercial centre of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Other shopping centres are situated at Prem Nagar, Goalghar, Delanipur and Junglighat, all of these are just 3-4 kms away from Aberdeen Bazaar.

Transportation in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

By Air: Andaman and Nicobar islands have their domestic airport at Port Blair. Regular flights operate from Kolkata and Chennai to Port Blair airport. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan have frequent flights to and from Port Blair.

By Ship: You can also reach Andaman by sea. Cruising through the Bay of Bengal is a thrilling experience and you will come across a number of surprises on the way. Frequent passenger ship services are available to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam.

Local Transport: Buses, taxis, auto rickshaws, motorcycles, bicycles are available for local transport across the islands. In addition to these, the Directorate of Shipping Services operates inter-island foreshore and harbour ferry services to cater to the needs of inter-island travellers.

Bed and Breakfast scheme by Ministry of Tourism India

India is a God gifted land boasts of a thousands of tourists attractions that draw tourists from all over the world. Today India is one of the world’s most visited tourist destination that have brought a unprecented boom in country’s tourism industry. Since the beginning of this decade the Indian tourism industry is rapidly growing and it always mover towards a new high. A number of important factors were behind such growth in tourism industry, but the Indian government has also contributed a lot to promote tourism globally. At the same time the hotels, resorts, lodges and other accomodation options deserves some plaudits as the world class services offered by them make tourists trip to India pleasant and memorable.

For attracting the tourists from world over and making their travel hassle-free the Indian government introduce new-new attractive plans. Bed and Breakfast scheme is a new scheme launched by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. With the moto of providing comfortable accommodation facilties and standardized world clas services to the global tourists, and to supplement the availability of accommodation in the Metros and tourist destinations, Ministry of Tourism will classify fully operational rooms of Home Stay Facilities as "Incredible India Bed and Breakfast (B&B) Establishments". Basic idea behind the ‘Bed and Breakfast scheme’ is to provide clean and affordabl accommodation place for foreigners and demestic tourists as well. Besides, the foreign tourists will also get an excellent opportunity to stay with an Indian family to experience Indian customs and traditions and relish authentic Indian
cuisine.

According to present plan the Bed and Breakfast facilities will be categorized into two categories namely (a) Siver (b) Gold). Bed and Breakfast establishments will have to apply for approval from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The Regional Classification Committee, as specified in the guidelines, will inspect and assess such establishments based on facilities and services offered. For approval of Bed and Breakfast establishments the details of the standards, facilities, services and the documents required will be as per these guidelines.

Once approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the Bed & Breakfast Establishments will be duly publicized. Further a directory of all such approved Bed & Breakfast establishments will also be prepared, so as to enable domestic as well as foreign tourists to live in a homely environment and to take advantage of the scheme. Efforts will also be made to organize short term training in hospitality trade to those who would opt for such training.

Where to apply
Bed & Breakfast Establishments can send their applications along with the requisite fees to:-
1. Regional Director (North), Indiatourism,

88 Janpath, New Delhi
-110001.Tel: 011-23320005/8 (for States of Jammu &
Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttranchal, NCT
of Delhi, UT of Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh except Agra and
Varanasi).

2. Regional Director (West), Indiatourism,

123 M. Karve Road,
Mumbai -400020.Tel: 022-22033144 (for States of Gujarat,
Chattisgarh, UT of Daman & Diu, Dadra Nagar Haveli and
Maharashtra except Aurangabad).

3 Regional Director (South), Indiatourism,

154 Anna Sallai,
Chennai -600002. Tel: 044- 28460193 (for States of Tamil
Nadu and UT of Lakshwadweep).

4 Regional Director (East), Indiatourism,

"Embassy", 4
Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata -700071. Tel: 033 -22825813
(for States of West Bengal and Jharkhand).

5 Regional Director (North- East), Indiatourism,

Amravati Path,
Christian Basti, G.S. Road, Guwahati -781007. Tel: 0361-
2341603 (for States of Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland,
and Sikkim).

6. Director, Indiatourism,

KFC Building, 48 Church Street,
Bangalore -560001, Karnataka. Tel: 080-25585417 (for the
State of Karnataka).

7. Director, Indiatourism,

State Hotel, Khasa Kothi, Jaipur-
302001. Tel: 0141- 2372200 (for the State of Rajasthan).

8. Director, Indiatourism,

Sudama Palace, Kankar Bagh Road,
Patna-800020, Bihar. Tel: 0612-2345776 (for the State of
Bihar).

9. Manager, Indiatourism,

191, The Mall, Agra- 282001, Uttar
Pradesh. Tel: 0562-2226378 (for the city of Agra).

10. Manager, Indiatourism,

15-B, The Mall, Varanasi –
221001, Uttar Pradesh. Tel: 0542-2501784 (for the city of
Varanasi).

11. Manager, Indiatourism,

B/21B.J.B. Nagar,
Bhubaneshwar -751014, Orissa. Tel: 0674-2432203 (for the
State of Orissa).

12. Manager, Indiatourism,

Near Western Group of Temples,
Khajuraho -471606, Madhya Pradesh. Tel: 07686-
242347 (for the State of Madhya Pradesh).

13. Manager, Indiatourism,

VIP Road, 189, IInd Floor, Port
Blair-744103, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Tel: 03192-
236348 (for the UT of Andaman & Nicobar Islands).

14. Manager, Indiatourism,

3-60-140, IInd floor, Netaji Bhawan,
Liberty Road, Himayat Nagar, Hyderabad -500029, Andhra
Pradesh. Tel: 040-23261360 (for the State of Andhra
Pradesh).

15. Manager, Indiatourism,

Willingdon Island, Kochi -682009,
Kerala. Tel: 0484-2668352 (for the State of Kerala).
16. Manager, Indiatourism, Communidade Building, Church
Square, Panaji -403001, Goa. Tel: 0832-2223412 (for the
State of Goa).

17. Manager, Indiatourism,

‘Krishna Vilas’, Station
Road, Aurangabad -431005, Maharashtra. Tel: 0240-
2364999 (for the city of Aurangabad).

18. Manager, Indiatourism,

U Tirot Singh Syiem Road, Police
Bazaar, Shillong -793001, Meghalaya. Tel: 0364-225632
(for the State of Meghalaya).

19. Manager, Indiatourism,

Sector ‘C’, Barapani Police Point,
Naharlagun -791110, Arunachal Pradesh. Tel: 0360-2244328
(for the State of Arunachal Pradesh).

20. Manager, Indiatourism,

Old Lambu Lane, Jail Road, Imphal -
795001, Manipur. Tel: 03852-221131 (for the State
of Manipur).

For guidelines and other info visit : http://incredibleindia.org/pdf/Incredible_India_Bed_Breakfast_Scheme.pdf

Travel Tips for India

India is one of world’s most visited tourist destination and draws tourists from all corner of globe. World’s one of the biggest country, India offers plethora of options for tourist. You may chose your vacation according to your choice that is available in various themes like adventure, culture, history, romance, beach etc. For enjoying this vacation options you have to visit different parts of this vast country. Hence, for safe and hassle free journey across India you need to be aware about some basic facts. For your convenience and memorable vacation I am providing some handy travel tips here.


What to Buy
Shopping in India is delightful experience. You will find everything from A to Z in markets of India. Some of the shopping specialties of India include the art and crafts items, handloom, leather items, shoes, sweets, cotton clothes etc. Apart from these, do not forget to check out locally made items. Shop as much as possible during your trip to any destination of India. Always remember that good bargain if offered in most of the street side shops and small markets.


Where to Shop
India is a shopper’s paradise, all the cities and small towns have defined shopping areas. From the big shopping malls to small street shops you will find everything in India. Besides permanent shopping centres, you will also find weekly market places in India. So rush to nearest shopping centre to buy items of your choice.


What to Wear
Nudity is not allowed in India and married women prefer complete veil. Respect the Indian culture and women are suggested to maintain the modesty. India is a big country and the weather differs in different regions. Enquire about the weather in advance and carry sufficient clothes according the climatic conditions. During winter months of November to February, the weather remains cold so carry woolen clothes, jackets and blankets. During summers and rainy season light weight cotton is best. For foot wear – shoes and comfortable sandals are suitable. Do not move bare foot because you may get infected by disease.


Driving License
You need an International Driving License that can be obtained through the assistance of automobile association. Even if you are not planning to drive on your in India, carry your driving license with photo for identification.

Documents to Carry
Carry the original as well as xerox copy of your passport, travel visas, airline tickets and essential travel documents. Also prepare a list of any charge or credit cards you are carrying during your trip to India.

Purchase Travel Insurance Plans
You are advised to purchase special Travel insurance and medical evaluation plan programmes.

Food and Drinking Water
Always take food from good hotels or restaurant. Wash fruits before eating them. Avoid foods which have been laid out in the open, avoid sweets and candies from local markets. Try to avoid drinking water from an unknown source it may be contaminated. Better you ask for packaged drinking water like Bisleri, Aqua Fina, Kinley, Rail Neer, Kingfisher etc. always check the seal. For more precaution carry water purifying tablets.

Safety
Take utmost care of your belongings, as there are chances of stealing. Use the lock boxes or bags to keep your belongings and travel documents safe. Always take care of your wallet, purse, bags, suitcases and other things. Never leave your luggage, briefcase or other belongings unattended.

Travelling
Indian Railways offer several superfast and mail trains for all the important places of India. Avoid travelling in the Second Class, because the bogies remain crowded. AC or Sleeper bogies are good to travel. Buses including Deluxe, Volvo, Coach etc. also ply all over India. Cars, Taxis and Auto Rickshaws are modes of local transport and they are available from all hotels, railway stations and bus stands. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. It is advised to use only authorized and properly identified taxis, auto rickshaws and buses. In case of complaints against taxi or auto-rickshaw driver for overcharging or cheating, note down the vehicle number and lodge a report with Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic). You can get the important Contact Phone Numbers in Telephone Directory.

Voltage
In India the standard voltage used in 220 volts. If your appliances do not match this standard, you can buy a converter from any of the electric shops. Current Spikes are very common in India so use a spike buster.

Chemists / Pharmacies
Chemists are available at almost every place (city, town, village etc.) where you can buy medicines. In case you fell ill and need to see a doctor, ask for help from your hotel or your tour operator. In India the cost of visiting a doctor is fairly low in comparison to western countries. Most importantly, in some areas of India Malaria is still prevalent. So, prior to your departure, get a prescription from your doctor for some anti malarial tablets.

Essential Things You Should Carry

Do remember to carry some insect repellent, mosquito coils or even an electronic repellent, because mosquitos can be fierce in India. Carry sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to avoid the sun burn and sun stork.

Respect Religious Shrines
Majority of the Indian people are religious and they have great respect for religious shrines and places of worship. Always respect the religious shrines and places of worship during your visit to India. You need a decent dress code for visiting some religious places. Always take care and do not try to violate any taboos in a mosque or a temple.

Money Exchange

Change currency only from authorized moneychangers in India. Do remember to keep the money exchange receipts after every transaction. You will need those receipts for re-exchange on departure.Offering TipTipping is a matter of your personal discretion. Usually bills include a service charge, it is customary to tip in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.

Photography Rules
In India there are some rules regarding photography. Always look for notification before clicking the photos. Normally photography is prohibited in places of military importance, railway stations, bridges, airports etc.

What to do while in trouble
If you ever land in any kind of trouble, then immediately contact your Embassy and nearest police station. Always talk with the Senior Inspector in Charge of any police station, as he is the top officer.

Credit Cards Accepted in India
American Express, Master Charge, Visa and Diners Club credit cards are generally accepted by large establishments of India including hotels, shops, and airlines.



For Any Help Contact : Ministry of Tourism Help Desk.