Travel Guide
Important Pre Departure Information Please Read Facts (for Information only)Country name: India
Population: 1,223,225,951 (Approx)
Capital: Delhi
Official Languages: Hindi and English
Religion: 80% Hindu, 14% Muslim, 2.4% Christian, 2% Sikh, 0.7% Buddhist, 0.5% Jains, 0.4% other (Approx)
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Electricity: Current is 220V, 50Hz
Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (IST) is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+5.5). Daylight Saving is not observed.
Being Healthy: As experienced travellers we know how important it is to stay healthy, worry less and not fall sick. To enjoy your holiday wiVTGut missing out on delicious local cuisine, we STRONGLY recommend that you start taking PROBIOTIC medicines at least TWO weeks before your arrival in the country and continue taking it every day after dinner till you finish the tour. There are a number of brands available in the pharmacy/ medicine store for you to choose from. We suggest you to select one which is self stable and does not require refrigeration. If you are unsure please consult your GP.
Gratuity/Tipping: Tipping has always been difficult as it might not be a part of your culture or country, however it is part of Indian culture and is often the way some people supplement their earnings. VTGugh there are no boundaries or proper guidelines, our tour manager will advise you before starting the tour. These day’s most hotels and restaurants have replaced tipping with a service charge around 10%. In some restaurants where service charges are not included in your bill a tip of a similar amount is appreciated by the staff. Hotel porters/bell boys expect around INR 100 to carry bags. Local tour guides INR 300, boatmen at Kerala INR 300 and our recommendation for drivers at the end of your tour is INR 300 per day per person. It is customary to tip waiters, porters, guides and drivers. Last but not the least, though tipping is not compulsory but highly expected. We recommend you budget for it at your discretion to avoid embarrassment.
Passport & Visas: Visas are required for all nationalities except Indian passport holder and you must obtain an Indian visa prior to leaving home as it cannot be obtained on arrival. Passport must be valid for at least six months before you commence travel in India.
Travelling to Sikkim requires a special permit; application may be made when applying for a standard Indian visa at the local Indian High Commission. If required please ask VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY to assist while applying for your visa application. Depending on your purpose of visit, you can get a tourist visa (six months), a business visa (6 months, one year or more, multiple entries) or a student visa (up to 5 years). An Indian visa is valid from the day it is issued, not the date of entry. For example, a 6-month visa issued on January 1 will expire on June 30, regardless of your date of entry. There is a minimum two month gap period between consecutive tourist visas. Tourist visa valid for 6 months can have maximum duration 90 days per visit, depending on citizenship. So make sure to check maximum duration per visit on your local embassy.
Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVOA) Scheme (up to 30 Days): Government of India has first launched the Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVOA) Scheme in January 2010 and recently added more nationalities as of 27 Nov 2014. This Scheme is introduced for citizens (Passport Holder) of 34 countries, namely Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Djibouti, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Finland, Germany, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kingdom of Tongo, Laos, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Mexico, Myanmar, New Zealand, Niue, Norway, Oman, Palestine, Papua and New Guinea, Philippines, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea (i.e. South Korea), Republic of Marshall Islands, Republic of Nauru, Republic of Palau, Russia, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Thailand, Tuvalu, UAE, Ukraine, USA, Vietnam, Vanuatu. List of more countries eligible for TVoA may be notified by Government from time to time.
Apply online for a Pre-Approval at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html The online application should be submitted a minimum of 4 days in advance and a maximum of 30days of the proposed date of travel. TVOA links may also be found in websites of Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, Bureau of Immigration, Incredible India etc.
Currently Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVOA) can be obtained only at 9 International airports of Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Chennai (MAA), Kolkata (CCU), Kochi (COK), Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), Goa (GOI), Hyderabad (HYD) and Bengaluru (BLR).
The above is for information only; for more accurate and up-to-date information please check Indian consulate in your area.
Travelling In India: The key to travelling in India is patience! Distances sometimes can be vast, roads are often congested and rustic and time is not necessarily of the essence. With many different options of travel, each will bring with it a different perspective of this fascinating country. Our Small Groups and Independent Tours use a variety of transport options to get you from city to city. From private car, deluxe charter coaches, to domestic airline and air-conditioned trains, you will be taken from one hotel to another in comfort. India has one of the largest rail networks in the world with over 60,000 kms of tract and 7,000 stations. Travelling by train in India can be an experience in itself and a wonderful way to get in touch with the locals.
To avoid any inconvenience we recommend you carry a roll of toilet paper from your hotel before you start your sightseeing tour or train journey as at some emergency stop, public toilets may not have sufficient toilet rolls.
Public Transport: India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, few of which could be described as efficient or punctual. The “Auto-rickshaw” and “Taxi” is the most common means of local public transport. We do not recommend use of public buses and trains as they are crowded and could be intimidating to first time travellers and foreign tourists. We highly recommend you ask for a car with driver when you meet VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY tour manager on arrival if you arrive a day early or when you have no sightseeing plan. The cost is very nominal and often cheaper than hiring taxi or auto rickshaw. It will give you flexibility at the same time certainty of security, services and not being charged higher.
Driving Time and Distance: Travelling within India is an achievement as no other land in the world is gifted with such a varied and vibrant topography. Indian roads are packed with people, bazaars and vehicles and getting from place to another may often take longer than expected. We recommend you carry books and magazines while travelling. Please note that travelling time mentioned in the itinerary is for guidance only and does not include the time spent during midway lunch stop or enroute sightseeing.
Comfort Stop: VTGugh we take utmost care that comfort stop are made at regular intervals (every 3 hrs), we will highly recommend you freshen up at the hotel before starting your journey to the next destination. Should you require an emergency stop please advise the driver as soon as possible so he can find an appropriate place to stop, VTGugh it may take 15-45 minutes to reach the destination. Comfort stops are made in the restaurants where you can have meal, soft drink, snacks and or can use washroom to freshen up.
Trains: Indian Railways is the largest employer in the world with over a million employees. Facilities on board are simple with both western-style and squat toilets. They are generally clean; however as anywhere in India you cannot expect perfect western standards. Security on board is generally not an issue however it is recommended to take along a lock to secure your bag. Some itineraries also make use of the famous narrow gauge ‘Toy Trains’ to remote hill stations giving a rate insight to life in these higher altitude villages. AlVTGugh we try to keep the groups together in the same carriage you may be lucky and find yourself sharing your area or seated next to some locals, an excellent chance to mingle and share your experiences. The interstate trains that feature in our itineraries have 3-4 classes.
1A – The First class Air conditioned coach is the highest category which usually has limited availability on trains with long journeys. Compartments have lockable doors with washbasins making it a personal coupe. There are 4 sleeping berths and necessary bedding like pillows, blankets; sheets are provided by the train attendant. Availability varies from train to train and one destination to another.
2A – Air Conditioned two tier coaches are with sleeping berths and ample leg room. Berths are usually arranged in two tiers in bays of six, four across the width of the coach then the gangway then two berths long ways, with curtains provided to give some privacy. Bedding, pillows, blankets, sheets are provided by the train attendant
3A – Air conditioned three tier coaches are also with sleeping berth and are usually arranged as in 2A but with three tiers across the width and two long ways giving eight bays of eight. They are slightly less appointed with usually no curtains off gangways. Bedding, pillows, blankets, sheets are provided by the train attendant
CC – Air conditioned chair car is a seater coach which is very comfortable with a total of five seats in a row used for day travel between short distance cities.
Generally Indian Railways are very efficient but Interstate trains usually do run late, so we recommend that you keep sufficient time for your onward connecting flight or journey.
We recommend travellers to freshen up at the hotel and carry an extra roll of toilet paper before boarding train as you may have hygiene or cleanliness issue using train toilets.
Domestic Flight Check In: Checking in at Indian airports tends to be slow and bureaucratic, involving lots of queuing and security checks. A few pointers to smooth your way: Arrive at least 02 hours before departure if travelling from the major airports. Bring a print-out of your ticket and a government-issued ID, or zealous security guards will probably not allow you inside.
Most airports require that you screen your checked bags before check-in, usually at a stand near the entrance. At Mumbai and Delhi airports there is no pre-screening of baggage. Don't hesitate to ask someone if you are unsure. Most staff in airports is very helpful to foreigners and will make an effort to ensure you catch your flight. There are separate queues for passengers travelling light (wiVTGut check-in baggage) and these queues are usually less crowded. Different airlines have different standards for what they allow as cabin baggage, especially if you are travelling by a low-cost airline.
Internal Airport Transfer – Domestic to International or vice versa: When you are booking domestic flight connecting to other flight, please ensure to have minimum 3-4 hrs gap between your next flights. If you are arriving from international flight and connecting to domestic flight you will require to collect your baggage on your arrival and re check-in for your next flight. To ensure you do not miss your connected flight we highly recommend you to avail internal airport shuttle transfer which runs every 15-20min from International airport to Domestic airport or vice versa. It is highly recommended to arrive before time as we noticed that some airlines do not announce or update any changes (delays) in the scheduled flight therefore it is better to be on time.
Flight Ticket Copy: You must carry a copy of your flight ticket with your name on it as shown in the passport to avoid any security check issues at the Airport. At the airport gate you are be asked to show your printed copy of your flight tickets and valid passport where your name should match in both documents. Failing to have itinerary and passport may cause no access to the airport.
Meet & Transfers: When you arrive in any airport, train station and your transfers are included, please ensure to look for person holding VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY plaque card with your name on it. A VTG Tour Executive is always present at the arrival lounge much before your scheduled arrival unless there is a delay due to any unforeseen circumstances.
Do not board any other vehicles unless it is from VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY: When you travel with VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY we do our best to ensure you return back with wonderful memories of your holiday. On arrival at the airport or railway station please ensure to look for VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY Tour Executive holding VTG Plaque Card and board VTG vehicle ONLY (Unless you did not book with us). VTG Tour Executive will have ID card as well as know your name and flight details. At NO point board any other vehicle or person pretending to represent VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY.
Free Days: India offer variety of activities and sightseeing options. If you are staying for few days in any destination and like to do something unique and exciting in your free time, please contact VTG local office or 24/7 helpline while you are there. We will recommend you to book all activities as early as possible and at least before you leave the country to ensure everything is ready wiVTGut compromising quality and services.
Optional Activity: Optional activities are not included in the cost; in every itinerary we mention ‘What’s included’ in your trip. While we include the major highlights of a destination, you are free to choose your optional activities. This gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to choose what you want to do on a daily basis. Just ask your tour manager to suggest optional activities or sights you may like to visit on your free day.
Elephant Ride in Jaipur: Riding on an elephant from the foot of the Aravalli hills to the mighty gates of the Amber Fort is a lifetime experience which not only takes you back to the royal era, when only the majestic maharaja’s used to ride on these august pachyderms but also helps one to see the far-flung areas of the terrain from a respectable height. However, please note that the elephant ride is subject to availability as there is only one platform to mount the elephant, be prepared to wait in the queue.
Driver: In India driver is not your tour guide and is responsible to ensure that you have been transported between cities safely.
Tour Guide: India is conservative country, where traditions, customs and culture are deeply embedded. According to the Indian culture a woman is not directly addressed by a man. AlVTGugh this is soon changing, there still may be places where a male tour guide may interact less to a female travel companion if the woman is accompanied by a male partner/friend/family member. This is not being disrespectful or offensive and your understanding on this matter would be appreciated.
Itinerary and Sightseeing: Our aim at VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY is to provide quality service to our client’s highest level of satisfaction. However due to unforeseen circumstances, festivals and mandatory closure require an alteration in itinerary or sightseeing. We do our best to ensure all the sightseeing is covered but in some cases it may not be possible and we advise you to discuss these alternate arrangements with your tour guide at least a day prior of the scheduled sightseeing.
Visiting Holy Places: When visiting temples, churches, mosques or any other religious sites in India, there are certain dress codes and behaviour, which is acceptable and expected. Most Indian holy places, regardless of faith, will ask visitors to take off their shoes before entering. It is inappropriate and disrespectful to visit any temple, mosque, church or other religious site wearing tank-tops, shorts or short skirts. The basic rule is to cover your shoulders (easily done with a scarf or a shawl) and your knees. It is also recommended to avoid anything see-through, too tight or too short and generally it is better to wear too much rather than too little. Visitors to the holiest site of Sikhism, the Golden Temple in Amritsar, will have to cover their heads when entering the temple grounds. The temple provides head scarves free of charge. The same rule can apply to mosques.
Security: With hotels having their own security, we try to ensure utmost precaution during our tours and sightseeing. We advise every traveller to use their judgment while on the tour to avoid any disruptions. We recommend you register with the local council of your country on arrival unless facilities are given to register before starting your holiday. Every traveller is responsible for their own safety and security.
Safety: The safest place for your money and passport is either in a money belt round your waist or in a pouch under your shirt. Never, ever carry these things in your luggage. You are asking for trouble if you walk around with your valuables in a shoulder bag. Bum bags are not recommended as they virtually advertise that you have a stash of goodies. Never leave your valuable documents and travellers cheques in your hotel room. If the hotel provides, you should be able to use the hotel safe.
24/7 Helpline: To assist our clients further while they are travelling our 24/7 Helpline numbers are available in India. We strongly advise you to contact us immediately if there is an issue regarding hotel, driver, tour guide or any part of services so we can resolve it as soon as possible so that you enjoy the tour. Your co-operation on this issue would be highly appreciated.
24 X 7 Helpline India: +91 9899557100
Type of Accommodation: As there is so much to see and do in India during the day therefore everyone deserves a good night sleep. We choose quality accommodation depending on the category you choose while travelling that ranges from providing a place of rest that offers not only comfort but also an authentic experience rather than staying in a hotel that could by anywhere in the world. Every hotel might be different according to location, amenities and services. While selecting hotel we consider great location, private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning to name few. Our comfort category hotel are 3 star, deluxe is a 4 star and luxury category consist of well-known 5 star Heritage Hotels/Palace.
Staying at Wildlife/Eco resort: Most eco, wildlife and jungle resort are eco-friendly to protect the local environment. All resorts provide hot/cold water; VTGugh in some resort you may have to leave the hot water tap on for some time before you shower with hot water. Also note when staying in an eco-friendly hotels or resorts, a TV may not be provided in the room as they offer plenty of options for day activities such as cooking demonstrations, nature walks, cultural shows, yoga class to name a few. It is advisable to check with the hotel for any extra activities they offer at the time of check-in.
Houseboats: Every houseboat has a different shape, size and decor. Bigger boats i.e. 2, 3 or even 4 bedroom are certainly bigger and some more appealing. However, small boats are able to cruise through smaller canals whereas bigger boats have limitations. It is suggested that you enjoy the beautiful environment and local life living on the edge of canals while cruising the back waters of Kerala. Please note the houseboats dock in the evening around 1800hrs for fishermen to lay their fishing nets in the back waters. The Air Conditioning is turned on in the houseboat only when docked for the night.
Food & Drink: Indian cuisine is distinguished by its sophisticated use of spices, herbs and the influence of the longstanding and widespread practice of vegetarianism in the Indian society. Furthermore, every religion, region, and caste has left its own influence on Indian food. VTGugh most of the main meals included in our brochure itineraries are served as buffet or fixed menu. In some area very few hotel may only have vegetarian meal options and non-alcoholic drinks served inside the hotel.
We advise all our travellers to eat food at a good local restaurant and not from roadside vendor in case meals are not included in your tailor made tour. We highly recommend you only consume bottled mineral water and make sure that the seal is not broken.
Sale and consumption of Alcohol: Due to alcohol abuse, few states have put restrictions on the sale of alcohol only in licensed premises resulting closing down of illegal bottle shop and bar. Currently this change is applicable to the State of Kerala and Gujarat. Your extras: We highly recommend you settle all extra bills for using room service, mini-bar or any other services not included in your tour a night before departing in each destination. Settling at the time of departure may cause delay as most people check out at the same time.
Currency Exchange, Credit Card and ATM’s: The Maximum limit of Indian Rupee one can take into India is INR. 10,000. Outside airports, you can change your currency at any one of the numerous foreign exchange conversion units including banks. Some of the more common foreign exchange merchants are Travelex and VTGmas Cook.
In many cities and towns, credit cards are accepted at retail chain stores and other restaurants and stores. Small businesses and family-run stores almost never accept credit cards, so it is useful to keep a moderate amount of cash on hand for tips, meals and travel. Money can be exchanged at Hotels, Banks or auVTGrised money changers. Most ATMs will pay out only 10,000 rupees in each transaction. State Bank of India (SBI) is the biggest bank in India and has the most ATM's. ICICI bank has the second largest network of ATMs and accepts most of the international cards at a nominal charge. International banks like Citibank, HSBC, Barclays, Deutsche Bank, ABN Amro, and Standard Chartered have a significant presence in major Indian cities. It is always worthwhile to have bank cards or credit cards from at least two different providers to ensure that you have a backup available in case one card is suspended by your bank or simply does not work at a particular ATM.
Clothing & Footwear: We recommend, clothing should be lightweight, loose fitting and easily washable. In India’s summer months, cotton clothing is much more comfortable than fabrics like nylon. The winter months (Dec-Feb) are bit cooler therefore you should pack some light warm clothing should you wish to enjoy by the poolside or opt for a walk to the local Bazaar.
All our tours involve some walking while visiting monument etc. It is important to bring footwear that is suitable and comfortable while on tour i.e. Jandals, sneakers or sport shoes.
National or public holiday: Please be advised that during few national and public holidays some of the market place may be closed. Closure of markets are a rare event and would appreciate if you can check with our local team before you plan your shopping trip. Shopping: We do not patronise any shopping malls or emporiums. However, there may be instances when the tour guide may take you shopping, as per the request of your fellow travellers. It’s a norm while travelling to visit shops where most travellers like to purchase handicraft and souvenirs for their friends and family. We suggest you to buy from a VTG recommended shop where you are certain of quality and on time delivery. We strongly suggest you bargain and use your own discretion while purchasing as we will not be held responsible for any grievances regarding the same.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours. Speak to us or your travel agent about comprehensive insurance to cover your travel arrangements. This must critically cover medical expenses in case of an emergency. Note that travel insurance automatically provided with credit cards generally does not provide adequate cover.
Medical Information: Travellers who are aged 70 years or more, or with a per-existing condition that affects their fitness to travel or any medical dietary requirement, must be advised at the time of booking. We recommend all travellers should visit their doctor for the aforementioned purposes and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour. Vaccinations: VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY offer high quality tours where major vaccination may not be required unless you have made your own arrangement. However, we recommend you to consult your GP and not a travel doctor as they will have a better understanding of your requirements.
Your personal details: We suggest NOT to give your personal information especially phone numbers and email ID to hotels or any other provider to avoid misuse of your personal details as well as causing any unwanted (SPAM) mail.
Phone & Internet Coverage: Every hotel provides telephone and internet facilities inside the room or at the business centre. If you would like to use your overseas mobile to keep in touch with your friends and family members please contact your mobile phone provider and request to activate roaming before you start journey. Mobile coverage is good in most part of the country.
Mobile Local SIM card: If you would like to use a local mobile SIM card we will recommend you buy as soon as you arrive at the International airport arrival lounge before you go out of the airport. It is available in all International airports. The benefit of buying one at the airport is that the SIM will be activated within 4-5hrs as opposed to 2-3 days if you purchase it from a local shop outside. To avail this facility you need to photo copy of your passport, copy of hotel voucher and 02 passport size photos.
Declare & Dispose: Every country has very strict bio security procedures at airports and ports to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases of animals and plants. If you break the law by giving false or incorrect declarations it may result in fines or imprisonment. We will recommend every traveller to familiarised themselves with the rules and regulations when visiting countries before starting their journey to avoid any unpleasant experience.
Responsible tourism is about making travel better (both for the guest and host): Promoting responsible tourism has always been a priority for VEER TRAVEL GATEWAY. It is our commitment which is supported by the travellers who choose to travel with us. We believe that wiVTGut involving locals and respecting their culture and customs it is almost impossible to have a memorable holiday. Travel is all about experiencing another culture, cuisine, customs and sights. Being a local tour operator to India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Nepal and Bhutan and also to Australia we use services of local people who know the destinations inside out. Cooking and dining with locals during culinary familiarity, experiencing rickshaw ride, visiting handy craft village or staying in boutique hotels are few activities we add in the itinerary which provide employment opportunities to the underprivileged communities.