We offer several trips to India, with different itineraries. However, we are often asked frequent questions regarding what to prepare. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!

Click on the question you're interested in to view the answer. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our Customer Support team here.

Accommodations

Do the hotels offer air conditioning?

This will depend on the confirmed hotels for your trip. Air conditioning is not widely used across India but many of the accommodations our Operating Partners use do have air conditioning.

Do the hotels have WiFi?

Yes, most hotels in India offer WiFi to their guests, especially in larger cities. Additionally, many cafes and restaurants also offer WiFi.

Culture

What are things I should know so I can be respectful of the local culture?

When visiting temples or entering an Indian home, remove footwear and hats. Dress conservatively in a way that expresses respect for the place of worship or household.
Avoid touching people with the left hand, as it is considered unclean and will cause insult. Keep this in mind and use your right hand when giving or accepting any object. To use both hands is even more respectful.
Never point with your index finger, particularly at sacred items or paintings. Instead, motion with your chin or extend your hand, palm flat and skyward, at the object you’re referencing.
Leather articles such as wallets, belts and bags are prohibited inside many Hindu temples. Be cognizant that these are sacred places where people come to pay their respects and recognize that photography may be inappropriate.
In many Hindu temples, non-Hindus are not allowed to walk inside certain parts of the temple complex.
Dress modestly. Women, in particular, should avoid revealing clothing. This means no sleeveless or low-cut shirts or tank tops, and no shorts. Make sure your knees are covered.

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India but Western-style toilets can be found in more upscale markets, tourist areas, and some higher-end hotels. Plan to always bring your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer since they are not always provided.

Currency

Are tips included?

Tips for Guides, drivers, and restaurant staff are not included in your trip costs. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a meaningful way to show appreciation and provides supplemental income for local teams. If they have enhanced your experience, consider rewarding their efforts with a tip. Below are tipping suggestions:

For Guides, it is recommended to tip $9-13 USD per person/per day
For Drivers, it is recommended to tip $7-10 USD per person/per day
For restaurants, it is recommended to tip 10% of the total bill, given directly to the wait staff

Itinerary

How much should I pack?

As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible and follow our luggage guidelines.

What should I bring on the trip?

Active Shoes - Great for long days on your feet.
Conservative Clothing - Typically the dress should be conservative, meaning shoulders covered and clothing to the knee. Low-cut blouses and short shorts should be left out of the suitcase.
Protect Your Tummy - Pack some Pepto Bismol and Imodium. Dramamine can be really helpful if you're prone to motion sickness.
Sunblock with SPF - Nothing ruins a vacation like a bad sunburn. Remember to pack sunblock with SPF to protect your skin while outside.
Bug Spray - Use bug spray with DEET or Picaridin to avoid bug bites and stay healthy during your trip.
Hand Sanitizer - Need I say more?
Ear Plugs - Light sleeper? Nice to have in case of a snoring roommate.
Laundry Soap - Single packets are perfect for sink washes when you're running low on clean clothes.
Day Pack - For carrying cameras, snacks, sunscreen, water, etc.
Reusable Water Bottle with filter - Staying hydrated is a recipe for success, however, tap water in India is not safe to drink. We recommend grabbing purification tablets or a Grayl filtering water bottle.
Portable Chargers - Great for charging batteries while on the go.
Travel Adaptor - Bring a universal travel adaptor for your electronics.
Call Your Bank - Your bank may suspend your card if they suspect unusual activity. Give them a call to let them know when and where you'll be traveling.
Always pack extra underwear!

Meals

Is the water safe for drinking?

Tap water should be avoided by travelers. You should also avoid brushing your teeth with tap water when possible. For drinking water, a water bottle with a filter or purification tablets is recommended.

Are there any foods I should avoid to prevent me from getting sick?

In addition to avoiding tap water, you should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven't been cooked or peeled.

Transfers & Transportation

What type of transfer vehicle is used during the trip?

A private van or shuttle bus.

What does public transportation look like?

Buses carry more than 90% of public transport in Indian cities. Most Indian cities have no rail transport and rely instead on a combination of buses, minivans, auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis.

Is Uber or Lyft available??

Yes, both companies are available in larger cities, such as Delhi.

Safety

Where can I find information on travel safety?

Check out the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

While there is growing visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community in larger cities like Mumbai and Delhi, India is a conservative country, especially in more remote towns and villages. Public displays of affection other than hugging and hand-holding should be avoided by all couples regardless of sexual orientation.

What about vaccines?

For vaccination information, click here.

Visas

Do I need a Visa?

For Visa information, click here. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you return home and has two or more blank pages. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter

Please refer to the Trip Prep guide here for additional information about India.