Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best time to visit India?
The coolest weather lasts from November to mid-March, with cool, fresh mornings and evenings and dry, sunny days.
2. What is the best thing to do if pestered by beggars and street urchins?
Well, you can start by ignoring them completely and if they get too persistent give them a stern look. If you must give them something, let it not be more than 2 to 5 rupees only.
3. I hear Indians are a more conservative lot especially compared to people in Western countries. What kind of clothes would be acceptable here?
Shorts, minis and tank tops are unadvisable unless you're on a beach. In small towns and cities especially, people may tend to stare if you expose too much skin. Safe clothing would be trousers, peddle pushers, capris, skirts, tops and shirts. India has some good cottons which are trendy and affordable. Buy yourself some. Women could try wearing a salwar kameez which is very cool and comfortable and could even improve the attitude of people towards them.
4. How flexible is the itinerary? Can I plan personal engagements during the tour?
The itinerary is flexible: you may choose not to attend an appointment, and plan personal engagements in that time slot. While you are free to do so, please ensure the coordinators are aware and have your contact details. This is to ensure your security, and better tour management.
5. What medical precautions should I take for the visit?
We will advise you shortly on this.
6. What food can I expect?
The menu will be international as well as Indian cuisine. You will have the option to choose to dine out on most evenings, which can give you opportunity to experiment with Indian cuisine.
7. What climate can I expect in India now?
The monsoons would start typically in early august, and would be in full swing during our tour. So do keep enough changeover clothes handy, and raincoats.
8. Can I hire a mobile phone in India?
You can pick up a mobile phone connection from most departmental stores and often even at small roadside stores. The service provided by these private companies is on par with the best in the world.
9. How safe is drinking water in India?
If you are from a foreign country, you may not be used to drinking the water here. Hence we advise that you pick up a bottle of mineral water which is cheap and widely available and usually provided in flasks in hotel rooms. Order the same when you are at a restaurant. As far as possible, avoid drinking any kind of water or juices from roadside carts and vendors.
10. How safe is it to eat non-vegetarian food in India?
India, being a primarily Hindu country, beef is rarely served. Pork is also not easily available. Eat non-vegetarian food only in good restaurants. What you get in smaller places is generally of dubious quality though tastes quite yummy, thanks to concoctions of Indian spices and masalas.
11. Are there pubs and discotheques in India?
Yes, definitely. Though these are concentrated only in metro cities and big towns. In places like Mumbai and Bangalore you are likely to find several cocktail lounges and coffee bars as well. Most pubs and discs have state of the art sound equipment and an experienced DJ to provide you with good music. Do try the spicy chaats and snacks with your Pina Colada.