Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth – a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a curious mixture of chaos and serenity. Stretching across more than three million square kilometres, it encompasses a staggering array of landscapes, vistas and environs, and offers unparalleled travel experiences – from the beautiful beaches of Goa, to the compelling craziness of Kolkata, the sacred Ganges river banks of Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples dotted across the entire country. Not to mention the vibrant, friendly people, and the incredible cuisine.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Indian Rupee
Symbol: ₹
ISO code: INR
Subunit: The Indian Rupee is divided into 100 paise, but since 2011, only the 50-paise coin is still accepted as valid currency.
Banknotes: ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500
Coins: ₹0.50 (50 paise), ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10,₹20
₹500 and ₹1000 banknotes of Mahatma Gandhi series issued up to November 08, 2016, have ceased to be Legal Tender with effect from the midnight of November 8, 2016.
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited acceptance
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Weekends: Limited hours or closed, check with local banks.
Public Holidays: Yes (Varies, typically reduced hours)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara
International Airports: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), and others
Domestic Airports: Numerous, including Jaipur, Lucknow, Guwahati, and Patna.
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Limited
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Extensive
Subway System: Limited (in select cities)
Water:
Ferries: Limited
Water taxis: Limited
Leisure cruises: Limited
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Wash thoroughly or peel
Ice: Use commercially produced ice
Meat: Ensure it's well-cooked
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine: Indian cuisine is diverse and varies greatly by region. Highlights include dishes like biryani, curry, dosa, chaat, and tandoori specialties. Vegetarian options are plentiful.
Drinks: Chai, lassi, sugarcane juice, and various regional beverages like coconut water. Alcoholic beverages are available, with beer and whiskey being popular choices.
Tipping: Generally 5-10% in restaurants; tipping for other services is discretionary.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies greatly by region, 500 mm-4,000 mm
Average temperature: Varies greatly by region, 15°C-30°C
Summer:
Average highs: 25-45°C
Average lows: 20-30°C
Winter:
Average highs: 10-25°C
Average lows: 5-15°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit India depends on the region and your preferences. Generally, the winter months from October to March offer milder temperatures and are ideal for exploring most parts of the country.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Limited, mobile data or Wi-Fi in accommodations and cafes available.
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Limited
Libraries: Limited
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type C, Type D, Type M
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
