Destination Guide:India

So far as I am able to judge, nothing has been left undone,

either by land or nature, to make India the most extraordinary
country that the sun visits on his rounds. Nothing seems to
have been forgotten, nothing overlooked.
Mark Twain

Namaste.
Thank you for selecting Sodha Travel for your Indian experience. Before departure, we encourage you to read the following
information that highlights Indian customs and travel propriety. Please contact us with any additional questions and we look
forward to being a part of your journey.

Contents
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Taxi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Auto Rickshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Cycle Rickshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Private Vehicle for Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Suburban Rail System/Metro/Rapid Transit System . . 11
Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Baggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Laundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Electricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Movie Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Suggested Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Common Indian Food Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fast Facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vaccinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Money Exchange/ATMs/Credit Cards . . . . . . . . . .
Gratuities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Food and Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Festivals and Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Religion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Social Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Photography and Videography . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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History

Fast Facts

The Indus Valley civilization, dating back at least 5,000 years,

is one of the oldest in the world. Additionally, India has always
been rich in natural resources. Arab invasions started in
the 8th century, followed by the Turkish in the 12th century
and European traders in the late 15th century. By the 19th
century, Britain had assumed political control of virtually all
Indian lands. Mohandas Gandhi led a nonviolent resistance
to British colonialism, resulting in independence in 1947. The
subcontinent was divided into the state of India and the smaller
Muslim state of Pakistan. A third war between the two countries
in 1971 resulted in East Pakistan becoming the separate nation
of Bangladesh. India has recently seen an impressive gain in
education, economic investment and technology.

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Time Zone: Indias time zone is GMT + 5.5. The

country does not apply Daylight Savings Time.
Population: 1.13 billion
Capital: Delhi; Also called New Delhi
Location: Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal
and Arabian Sea
Area: Roughly 1/3 the size of the U.S.
Government: Federal Republic
Legal System: Based on English common law;
Separate personal law codes apply to Hindus, Muslims,
and Christians

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Visa

Vaccinations

India offers an electronic tourist visa on arrival (TVoA).

Applicants of the eligible countries may apply online a
minimum of four days in advance of the date of arrival with
a window of 30 days. The cost is $60 and the TVoA is valid
for entry at nine designated airports: Bangalore, Chennai,
Cochin, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and
Trivandrum. Please note this process is only valid for single
entry and the visa validity will be 30 days from the date of
arrival in India. For more information, please visit the India
Electronic Travel Authorization.

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/
or medications are suggested and we will recommend
preventative measures. We do encourage all travelers
to be current on routine immunizations. Also, we
recommend the Tetanus and Hepatitis A vaccine. For
detailed information, please contact your physician or
visit the CDC website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/

If your trip exceeds 30 days in duration, or if you are

planning to re-enter India after visiting other destinations,
you will need to complete an application from Cox & Kings
Global Services. Applications can be completed online.

Medical

Additional permits and visas are required for some areas

within India, including Assam, Nagaland, Sikkim, and tribal
areas of Orissa. If required, Sodha Travel will arrange for
the supplemental permits.

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Medical clinics and hospitals are available throughout the

country. There are two designations of hospitals: private and
government. Most foreigners elect to visit a privately run
medical facility. On-call doctors are available at most hotels by
calling the front desk. Sodha Travel strongly recommends travel
insurance to protect against any overseas medical expenses.

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If there is one place on the face of earth where all the dreams
of living men have found a home from the very earliest days
when man began the dream of existence, it is India!
Romaine Rolland

Currency

Gratuities

The national currency of India is Rupees (Rs). Current

exchange rates and conversion calculators can be found at
a variety of sites online.

Tipping in restaurants is customary but not required. If

you are pleased with the service, you can tip 10% of the
total. We recommended handing the money directly to the
waiter. If it is added to a bill or left on the table, it may not
be received. Some restaurants and bars charge a service
fee in the final bill. This fee is not considered an inclusive
gratuity. It is also customary to tip porters, guides, drivers, and transfer representatives, as well as anyone who
provides a direct service, including spa therapists or a
delivery service. For a certified driver and/or guide, we
recommend Rs 200-400 per person for a full day of service. A transfer representative can receive Rs 100-200 per
person, per transfer, and the porter Rs 30 50 per bag. It
is appropriate to tip the person who watches your shoes
at a temple or religious site, approximately Rs 20-30. Gratuities in Indian Rupee (INR) is preferred, though you can
also pay in USD or your local currency. Please be discreet
when tipping in public. Kindly note: Many tour packages
include porterage fees, so please inquire prior to your trip.

Money Exchange/ATMs/Credit Cards

You can exchange currency at hotels, banks, airports, and
local operators. Contrary to popular belief, airports and hotels
do not always offer the best exchange rates. Your guide
or representative can assist in finding a reputable money
exchanger. Depending on your destination, you may elect
to visit an authorized local currency operator. The rates are
usually better and you will receive a higher exchange value.

~ Tip ~
The code for Rupee can
also be INR

Please be advised of the international fee your credit

cards and ATM cards will charge if used abroad. Prior
to departure, we recommend contacting your bank and
credit card companies to determine the fees. To avoid
declined transactions on the assumption of credit card
theft, we also suggest informing your card company of
your international travel plans. Most travelers prefer to
bring travelers checks as opposed to cash, both for the
added protection and to eliminate any ATM fees.

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Food and Water

Indian food is delicious - and spicy. Our bodies are not
accustomed to the variety of Indian spices, so be cautious.
We recommend packing a digestive relief such as Pepto
Bismol. To be safe, do not eat at roadside stands or
cafes. The food may not be cleaned or cooked properly.
Unfortunately, we have seen too many visitors get sick
from a desire to eat authentic at these locations - and
regret it later.
Indian restaurants fall into 2 categories: Veg (vegetarian)
and Non-Veg (non-vegetarian). Remember, the cow is
sacred in India and beef is almost impossible to find.
To be safe, we recommend only drinking bottled water
during your journey. Most hotels have their own water
purification system, so you may use tap water to brush
your teeth. However, please ask the property if you have
concerns.
Alcohol is available throughout India and the country
has won international awards for its beer, rum and wine.
Liquor is prohibited in Gujarat, the only dry state in India.
However, tourists may obtain a liquor permit to purchase

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alcohol in government shops. If you elect to purchase a

license, please respect the law and only consume liquor in
a hotel room or private home.
Suggestions:
Pack a digestive relief: Tums, Pepto Bismol, etc.
Grapefruit seed extract is a natural defense to
unfamiliar bacteria. The extract is available at most
natural food stores and nutrition/vitamin shops.
As a precaution, some clients request an antibiotic from
their doctor before travel. Please consult your physician.
Only eat fruits and vegetables that have a thick peel.
Examples: bananas, mangoes, oranges, squash,
eggplant, and peppers. Also, be cautious about salads.
The lettuce is often washed in tap water.
Iodine tables are usually not necessary, unless your
itinerary includes trekking and/or remote destinations.
We will let you know if iodine tablets are recommended
for your particular package.
Only drink bottled water during your trip. Be sure to
check for sealed and untampered caps.

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Language

Religion

Hindi is the national language and primary tongue for 40%

of Indians. However, there are 21 other official languages,
including Gujarati, Tamil, Punjabi and Sanskrit. English is
commonly spoken throughout India. In fact, most children,
particularly in the cities, learn English first in school. It is
the most important language for commercial, national, and
political status.

The most common religion practiced in India is Hinduism:

Festivals and Holidays

Because India is such a multicultural and diverse society,
various holidays and festivals are celebrated throughout
the country. There are three national holidays in India:

~ Tip ~
In Hindi, thank you is
pronounced Dhanyavad
(daan-yaa-vaad)

Hindu - 80.5 %
Muslim - 13.4%
Christian - 2.3%
Sikh - 1.9%
Buddhist: 1.2%
Other 0.7%
The Constitution of India declares that the country must
support the right of its citizens to freely worship any religion.
Separate personal law codes apply to Hindus, Muslims,
and Christians. Although inter-religious marriage is not
common, Indians are generally tolerant of all faiths.

January 26: Republic Day

August 15: Independence Day
October 2: Gandhi Jayanta
Additionally, there are local festivals and holidays in
each region dependent on the religious and ethnic
demographic.

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Clothing

Social Etiquette

Generally speaking, India is a conservative country. We

recommend that tour participants not wear clothing that is
too short, tight, or revealing. Much of India has a patchy
climate: warmer in the days and cooler in the evenings.
A light jacket or layering is best to accommodate the
varying temperatures. Also, we suggest shoes that are
comfortable for walking, including sandals and tennis
shoes. A head cover may be required for women and
men at certain sacred sites and places of worship.

Shopping
Jewelry, clothes, spices, tapestries, shoes, shawls, handicrafts,
tea, rugs Shopping will soon become one of your favorite
experiences in India. The shops and bazaars are overflowing
with color and vitality. Bargaining is expected. As a foreigner,
your price will automatically start three times higher than the
locals. Have fun with the bargaining! If you prefer, ask your
representative about standard item pricing before making any
final purchases. Many outdoor markets and bazaars only accept
Rupees. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants,
shopping malls, and upscale/government licensed shops.

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Kindly refrain from excessive public displays of

affection
Remove your shoes before entering a home, religious
site, shrine, or place of worship
If possible, use your right hand for eating and other
social acts
Unless otherwise posted, do not smoke in historical
sites, places of worship, or sacred institutions
Always ask permission if taking pictures of the locals
(Also, it is best to ask permission to film a funeral
procession and/or at a religious site)
Do not point at or touch items with your feet
Dress modestly and conservatively

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~ Tip ~

Locals

Photography and Videography

Indians are some of the friendliest people in the world.

We encourage you to speak to the locals throughout your
journey. They are always excited to engage in delightful
conversation with foreigners, and it will allow you to learn
more about Indias colorful culture.

Most historical sites allow you to photograph and record.

Many times there is a fee associated with using cameras
and video devices, so please ask your guide or a site
member before filming. If you are visiting a religious site,
please ask if photography and videography are allowed.

The children of India are always charming. They will ask

questions about your origin and frequently request hugs.
If you choose to bring items to distribute to the kids, we
recommend candy, pens, and paper. Some of our clients
have even bought the children ice cream cones or snacks.

Safety

Beggars are common. Many cities have homes that teach

this craft as a scam, especially by manipulating children. If
you feel compelled to give, we recommend donating money
to a reputable charitable organization that will disperse
the funds to the community. Please ask your guide or
representative about recognized places to donate.

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. Check with your
guide or representative about the safe/unsafe areas of
town and use caution when traveling alone. Also, always
make sure your purse is zipped and wallets are in sealed
pockets. In the markets, be vigilant of pick-pockets and
distraction scams. Additionally, at the train/bus stations and
airports, monitor your luggage at all times.

Namaste is the traditional

greeting throughout India.

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Taxi

Auto Rickshaw

Depending on the city/region, traditional taxicabs can

be hired from stands or hailed from the street. They are
required by law to be registered as commercial vehicles
and have a fare-meter, though many drivers prefer to set a
pre-paid flat rate. Surcharges will apply for extra baggage,
night rides and tolls. Due to safety and convenience, taxis
have become more popular in recent years.

Also called a tuk-tuk, an auto-rickshaw is a three-wheeled

motor vehicle for hire. Generally green, yellow or black in
color, they have regulated metered fares and are a common
fixture throughout the country.
Sample Fare: Meter starts at INR 10, though many drivers
prefer to set a flat rate

Cycle Rickshaw

Sample Fare: INR 15 INR 25 per km

Bus
Buses are generally government-owned and provide a
convenient and cheap mode of public transportation. Until
recently, buses were overcrowded, not air-conditioned,
and offered limited access to the disabled. However, new
features such as air-conditioning and low-floor lifts are
being initiated in cities to improve the system and attract
private car owners to decongest roads.
Sample Fare: INR 5 INR 15 for a local ticket; INR 25 for
an A/C bus

Cycle rickshaws have an elevated seat in the back with a

person pedaling in front. Although banned in several cities
for causing traffic congestion, they are still a feature in Delhi
and provide a cheap mode of local transport.
Sample Fare: INR 15 INR 50

Private Vehicle for Hire

Private vehicles can be hired for the day or a proposed
itinerary and offer more comfort and a flexible schedule.
Depending on the destination and season, A/C or non-A/C
vehicles are available.
Sample Fare: Dependent on Itinerary

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Train
The train stations in India, particularly in large cities, are
quite complex and can be very overwhelming. We highly
recommend using a transfer representative when applicable,
as they can safely navigate entering/exiting the station.
Please also keep a safe watch of your valuables. When we
do hear of theft, it mainly occurs in or around train stations.
Trains are available for both day and overnight journeys.
There are generally three classes of seating: 1st class A/C,
2nd class (A/C or non-A/C), and 3rd class non A/C. Most
travelers opt for 1st or 2nd class, where Western restroom
facilities are available and seating is reserved. Depending
on your itinerary and class of service, meals are delivered by
a server or you may purchase food items from a vendor.
Taking an overnight train in India is NOT similar to European
rail travel. (This refers to standard train travel, not luxury
rail journeys including Palace on Wheels.) Although the
Indian rail system is very reliable, we only recommend it
for certain travelers. If you are particularly discerning, train
travel can be a sensory overload.

Suburban Rail System /Metro/Rapid

Transit System
Suburban Rail Systems in India are local trains (similar to
the American commuter train) and currently operational
in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata. The Mumbai
Suburban Railway has the largest passenger density in the
world, transporting over 6.4 million passengers daily.
The Delhi Metro is air-conditioned and a reliable option
for traveling throughout the city. It was also the first Metro
in the world to be certified for environmentally friendly
construction.
Rapid Transit Systems are currently under construction in
Chennai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
Sample Fare: Delhi Metro ticket is INR 9 INR 35, dependent
on distance traveled; Rail System tickets average INR 25
per ticket

Sample Fare: Dependent on Itinerary

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Communication

Baggage

The internet is widely available in most Indian cities, either

in hotel business centers or internet cafes. Please note
that some hotels do charge for internet usage, based on
an hourly rate. Many hotels are WiFi accessible, although
most do charge a service fee.

Most domestic airlines within India allow for one (1)

checked bag at 45 pounds (20kg) and one (1) carry-on bag
at 22 pounds (10kg). Fees may apply for additional and/or
overweight luggage. There is no weight limit if traveling by
land. There are no trolleys at most train and bus stations,
and luggage is carried by yourself or a porter.

There are many options for phone usage. You may

call directly from your hotel room, though the rates and
surcharges are usually at a premium. The local phone
booths are an affordable option. The codes marked on the
booths indicate the following accessibility:
PCO Local (within the state)
ISD International
STD Interstate (within India)

Laundry service is available in most hotels. You may elect for

same-day or next-day service and the prices vary by property.
For delicate and lighter items, you may also purchase
detergent in a local market and wash your clothes by hand.

Electricity

If you plan on using your cell phone, we strongly recommend

calling your provider prior to departure to determine the
international rates for calls, texts, and internet. You may
also elect to purchase a cell phone or SIM card in India,
which allows your friends and family to reach you throughout
your trip. Incoming minutes are generally free and there are
different plans available, depending on usage.

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Electricity in India is 220 240 volts, alternating at 50 HZ.

Outlets generally accept two kinds of plugs: two round pins
or three round pins arranged in a triangular shape. If you
choose to not bring a converter, you may usually borrow one
from the hotel (for a fee) or purchase one at a local shop. If
you intend on using your converter for laptops and digital
cameras, we recommend a converter with surge protection.

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If I were asked under what sky the human mind has most
fully developed some of its choicest gifts, has most deeply
pondered on the greatest problems of life and has found
solutions, I should point to India.
Max Mueller

Average Temperatures
Hot Season
(March - June)

Monsoon Season
(July - September)

Cool Season
(October - February)

Shimla

57 - 68F

59 - 68F

41 - 55F

Darjeeling

54 - 64F

59 - 68F

45 - 55F

Delhi

75 - 97F

79 - 93F

52 - 79F

Udaipur

75 - 100F

79 - 97F

54 - 84F

Mumbai

77 - 90F

77 - 86F

70 - 86F

Kolkota

77 - 95F

79 - 90F

64 - 84F

Trivandrum

77 - 90F

73 - 89F

73 - 86F

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:India_average_annual_temperature_map_en.svg

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Movie Recommendations:

Suggested Reading:

Gandhi

Travels through Sacred India by Roger Housden

Bombay

Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure by Sarah MacDonald

Bride and Prejudice

Dreaming in Hindi by Katherine Russell Rich

Water

The Mango Season by Amulya Malladi

Earth: 1947

Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri

Monsoon Wedding

India: A History by John Keay

Lagaan

Midnights Children by Salman Rushdie

Slumdog Millionaire

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

BBC Documentary Series: The Story of India

Customs and Etiquette of India by Venika Kingsland

Wanderlust and Lipstick: for Women Traveling to India
by Beth Whitman
India: Lonely Planet Travel Guide
Frommers India
Travelers Tales India: True Stories
Little India magazine: www.littleindia.com

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Here is a sample list of common Indian food items:

Biryani

Steamed rice with fragrant fruit, nuts, meat, and/or vegetables

Roti (or Chapati)

Unleavened wheat flatbread

Naan

Leavened, oven-baked flatbread that rises on one side

Chai

Traditional spiced black tea with milk and sugar

Tandoori

The tandoor is a clay oven. Tandoori is the preparation of food using the tandoor.

Dosa

A thin crepe made from rice and black lentils. It can also be stuffed with vegetables, meats, and spices.

Paneer

Cheese

Dal

A preparation of lentils or dried beans

Ghee

Clarified butter

Lassi

A yogurt-based drink made with ice and spices

Curd (or Dahi)

Yogurt

Thali

A selection of regional dishes served in bowls on a tray

Channa Masala

Chickpeas in a spicy sauce

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Resources

Chennai: United States Consulate

220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle
Chennai 600006
Phone: 91-44-2857-4000
After-hour Emergency: 91-44-2811-2000

United States Department of State

Information for U.S. Citizens traveling overseas
Delhi: United States Embassy
Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri
Delhi 110021
Phone and Emergency: 91-11-2419-8000

Kolkata: United States Consulate

5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani
Kolkata 700071
Phone: 91- 33-3984-2400
After-hour Emergency: 91-33-3984-2400, ext. 0

Mumbai: United States Consulate

Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road,
Mumbai 400026
Phone: 91-22-2363-3611
After-hour Emergency: 91-22-2363-3611, ext. 0
Hyderabad: United States Consulate
Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet,
Secunderabad
Hyderabad 500003
Phone: 91- 40- 4033-8300
After-hour Emergency: 91-90-0060-4234

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