Tour India: The Ultimate Guide

1. Characteristics India

To make sure you're well prepared for your holiday, you'll find all the information you need here. In the table below the characteristics of the country India.

Useful to know about India

2.1 Visa is require

For your trip to India you will need a passport that is valid from arrival to departure. For the visa, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of application. You can apply for a tourist visa for India online for a stay of 30 days. Keep in mind that you have to apply for this on time, at the latest 4 days before departure. With the electronic visa your fingerprints will be taken upon entry into the country and a facial scan will be made. The cost for this visa is around 25USD.

2.2 Protected Area Permit

In certain regions in India you need a permit, or Protected Area Permit. This applies to regions that are designated as 'Protected or Restricted Areas'. You can apply for this permit for your trip at the embassy or consulate of India abroad. It is good to know that processing an application can take weeks. Make sure you apply for this permit in time if you want to visit areas with this limitation.

2.3. Vaccinations

Vaccinations for DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio), Typhoid fever and Hepatitis A are recommended if you go on holiday to India. Personalized vaccinations may also be necessary, depending on your personal situation. It is recommended to make an appointment with a vaccination agency in your area at least 4 to 6 weeks before travelling. Here you can go through the itinerary and explain your personal situation. You will receive tailor-made advice on which vaccinations you need before departure. In most cases the vaccinations can be placed immediately.

depending on where you live, you will pay a different price for the vaccinations. This depends on the vaccination agency. In general, you can count on an amount of around €24 for the consultation. This includes your vaccination booklet. Furthermore, a vaccination against DTP costs an average of €29, the vaccinations against typhoid fever costs an average of €40 and the Hepatitis A vaccination costs around €55. By the way, check out your insurance policy for reimbursements for vaccinations. There are (supplementary) insurances that (partly) reimburse this.

3. Travel advice for a tour through India

Before you go on a tour of India, it is advisable to check the travel advice of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. There are security risks for a trip to India. There are unsafe areas for which a negative travel advice has been issued, for example because they are areas where the army is active or armed groups and regularly prevent shooting incidents. There are also areas in India where only necessary travel is permitted. This has to do with rebel groups that are active.

Monitor the security situation on site and stay informed of current developments, for example by following the local news. You can also ask for information or the latest developments at your accommodation. Should you unexpectedly find yourself in an undesirable situation, always follow the instructions of the local authorities. We would like to list some precautions you can take for your safety.

• Don't just walk down the street, not even during the day. That's when most robberies take place.
• After sunset, it's best not to take to the streets, not even to travel.
• Leave your eye-catching jewelry at home. And wear valuables such as money and documents unobtrusively on your body.
• If you're the victim of a robbery, just hand over your belongings. Resistance can lead to (more) violence.
• If you travel as a woman (alone), you must be on your guard. It is advisable to be dressed covered. Reports of unwanted attention and sexual and verbal violence against women are not unknown in India.
• You may not bring satellite phones into the country. Also iridium phones are forbidden.

4. Best travel time for a round trip through India

Because India is a big country, you'll find a lot of climate differences here. The north has a mountain climate, the middle a continental climate and the south of India is characterised by a tropical climate. In general you can say that the best travel time for the whole country is between October and February. You then enjoy an average daytime temperature of 20-25 degrees and the landscape is not very dry. In this way you avoid the highest average temperature of around 42 degrees that you can encounter in the beginning of May, for example.

In the east and southeast of India you will experience extreme rain and flooding between May and September. From July onwards, the monsoon rises in a northerly and northwesterly direction, where it normally reaches New Delhi at the end of the month. In the northwest, the monsoon period is shorter as it only begins here around August. Near the east coast of India, cyclones and tropical storms can occur. Always keep a close eye on the local weather reports.

5. Transport for an India round trip

Flying time to India depends on the city you are flying to. Flight time to Mumbai is longer than to New Delhi. A direct flight from Schiphol, Amsterdam to New Delhi takes just under 8 hours. Flight time to Mumbai is about one hour longer. The infrastructure in India has developed rapidly which has led to an extensive transport network over land, water and by air. Air traffic can generally be described as good. There are many internal flights managed by multiple airlines. Delays or cancellations of flights unfortunately still occur, for example due to weather conditions. So keep a close eye on the current travel information.

5.1. Public transport

You can make very good use of public transport during a round trip in India. This is also recommended compared to driving around with a car yourself. The traffic is busy and often a chaos. Despite the fact that the roads are generally good, it will be difficult to move around because the locals seldom enforce the traffic rules. Rent a car with a driver or choose the train instead, for example.

5.2. Railways

The railway network in India is one of the longest and most widely used in the world. It is very cheap and the network spreads all over the country. Keep in mind that trains sell out quickly, so buy your ticket on time. You can also end up in situations where the train is very full and you have to fight for a place to sit. Don't lose sight of your luggage and put extra care on your passport and bank cards.

5.3. Rickshaw

Another common means of transport is a rickshaw. Common are bicycle rickshaws, only in Calcutta you can find hand-drawn rickshaws. It is an efficient way to get around the city. However, there are several cities where rickshaws are forbidden because they can cause a lot of traffic nuisance. If you take a rickshaw, agree on a price in advance. If you want to travel short distances within a city, you can also opt for a taxi. It is recommended to use so-called prepaid taxis. These can be ordered with an App linked to your credit card. This way you avoid difficult negotiations and in general these rides are cheaper and more pleasant.

6. Sightseeing tour India

Say hello to India and be overwhelmed by the capital Delhi, the many mosques, the world famous Taj Mahal and the different landscapes. For a tour through India, we are happy to list the highlights for you that you should definitely visit. This way you will not miss out on all the beauty that this country has to offer.

6.1. Indian Himalayan Region

The Himalayas form the northern border of India, together with part of the north-east of the country. In India the mountain range spreads over no less than 10 different states. The Himalayas occupy more than 16% of India's total geographical area. And most of it is covered with snow-capped peaks. The higher part contains glaciers and the middle Himalayas has dense forest cover.

There are several special places in the Himalayas that are worth a visit. A popular area is Dharamsala. Here you can see the natural beauty of the Himalayas with your own eyes. You will also find alternating Hindu and Buddhist temples to visit. The immigration of Buddhist Tibetans has increased since the 19th century, partly because the Dalai Lama stays here. You can also find various Tibetan crafts, art and culture here.

6.2. Pangong Tso Lake

Pangong Tso is a 134 km long saltwater lake at an altitude of over 4300 meters. The colours of the clear water change from deep blue to bright green several times a day in the summer. This forms a special contrast with the dark mountains around it. In winter you can't see the play of colours, then the lake is frozen. However, then you can walk over it.

Lake Pangong Tso is a bit remote, so you have to take some time to get here. From the northern town of Leh it is about a 6 hour drive over a high pass. And you need a permit to visit the lake, as this area is under army supervision. Despite everything, the lake is highly recommended to visit during your tour of India.

6.3. Vaishno Devi Temple

In the mountains of the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir lies the Vaishno Devi Temple. This is one of the holiest temples of Hinduism. And a pilgrimage here is considered one of the holiest of our time. The temple is also known as Moonh Maangi Muradein Poori Karne Wali Mata which literally means "The mother who fulfills all the wishes of her children". He is dedicated to Shakti, the goddess who represents the feminine energy.

To visit the temple you have to make a trekking of almost 12 kilometers from the base camp in Katra. You will find Vaishno Devi at an altitude of over 1500 meters. The mountain contains three peaks and the mother goddess revealed in the holy cave has three heads on top. It is formed from one natural rock shape, but they differ in color and texture. In the holy cave you won't find any statues, images or idols. These can be found in the route there. You have to observe them carefully during your trekking, so that they lead you to the holy cave.

6.4. Harmandir Sahib

In the north of India, in the state of Amritsar you will find Harmandir Sahib. This temple is named after Hari, the temple of God. He has a golden coating, which gave him the nickname Golden Temple. Every day thousands of people from all over the world visit this temple to pay their tribute to it. The Golden Temple is a symbol of brotherhood and equality, in addition to being a religious place. Anyone, regardless of faith, race or background can come here for spiritual help. This is, among other things, visible in the lower level than the surrounding moose on which the temple is built. And the four entrances from all four directions show that everyone is welcome. It is almost impossible to describe the beauty of this temple, outside as well as inside. It is a matter of looking at it and experiencing it.

6.5. Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park. This is one of the most important wildlife parks in India. It was established in 1936 by, among others, Jim Corbett to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. In this nature park you will find a large number of tigers. Because the reserve is located in the pristine area of the Indian Himalayas, it is protected by a natural buffer of deciduous forests and trees. You will find a large amount of flora and fauna. A large part of this park is inaccessible. Tourists are only allowed in selected areas where you have the opportunity to see the landscape and wildlife. You can make a day tour or a multi-day tour with overnight stay.

 

6.6. Akshardham Temple

In the capital Delhi you can see the Akshardham temple. This temple is relatively new but has a traditional design. It opened its doors in 2005 after more than 8.000 volunteers from all over the world contributed to its construction. The word Akshardham literally means 'the divine abode of God'. This temple is completely dedicated to devotion, worship and spirituality.

At the complex you will not only find the temple. There are also two themed gardens, exhibitions are organised and on certain days you can enjoy a water show in the large fountain. Experience spirituality during a visit to this temple and immerse yourself in Hinduism.

6.7. Qutab Minar

Another attraction in Delhi is Qutab Minar. This tower is one of the most important Islamic buildings in the country. With a height of 72.5 meters and consisting of 5 floors, it is the tallest stone tower in India. The tower has been worked on for hundreds of years. Because of this you can clearly see differences in the architectural style. It also expresses itself in the use of different types of stones of which the tower is built. For example, the first floors are made of red sandstone, while other floors are made of for example marble.

6.8. Fort Ajmer

A few hours drive south of New Delhi lies Fort Ajmer. This fortress lies on a hill and is protected by the surrounding mountains. In earlier times this was the residence of the emperors in the capital of the Mogul Empire. This fortress shows you the refined architecture and Mogul art. Fort Ajmer covers 4 kilometres and consists of several buildings on different levels. On the complex you will also find a garden with an artificial lake. You can reach the fort on foot or by elephant. The ride by elephant is seen by some as part of the experience. But there are several animal organizations that also take action against it, given the animal suffering.

6.9. Elefantastic

In order to break through the abuse of elephants for tourism in Jaipur, Elefantastic has been established. This is a resting place for domesticated elephants. The shelter is run by caretaker families on low incomes. Besides taking care of the elephants, the caretakers and the interaction between elephants and people here is also central. Here the elephants get healthy food and regular check-ups by veterinarians.

Elefantastic, under the leadership of its founder, has become not only a source of information about elephants and their lives, but also a travel organization that wants to offer a fantastic experience to travellers coming to India for the first time. It wants to show travellers an India that is hospitable, has a kaleidoscope of cultures and a love for animals.

6.10. Fort of Agra

Fort of Agra that still stands in full glory and is a figurehead of the lost civilization of the Mogul emperors. This fortress was built around the middle of the 16th century to protect the capital Agra. The Mogul emperor Akbar ordered this red sandstone fortress. Due to the color of the stones, the fort was nicknamed the Red Fort.

 

Red Fort of Delhi. They are really different.

 

6.11. Taj Mahal

For many people, a visit to the Taj Mahal will be the reason to visit India. This imposing white marble mausoleum was built as a funerary monument. The fifth ruler of the Mogul Empire, Shah Jahan, ordered its construction after the death of his wife. After the ruler died, his remains were also buried in the tomb.

6.12. Ranthambore National Park

One of the largest and most renowned national parks in India is the Ranthambore National Park. This former hunting ground of the Maharajah's of Jaipur is now a real attraction for nature lovers. And if you love nature photography, you've come to the right place with the wildlife you may encounter in the reserve.

The Ranthambore national park is best known for the Bengal tigers that you can encounter here in their natural habitat. Indian leopards, wild boars, hyenas and crocodiles also live here. Besides animals, you can also see a wide range of trees and plants, including the largest Banyan trees. Take a safari in the morning or end of the afternoon. You can also book a weekend safari.

6.13. Khajuraho

The place Khajuraho in the middle of India is known for its many temples with erotic images and sculptures from the Kamasutra. The temple complexes are on the UNESCO World Heritage List and are therefore well maintained. You can walk through Khajuraho to visit the various temples or make a tour with a rickshaw for example. The erotic images on the temples are between the normal images. Sometimes you have to search before you find the kamasutra images. Or ask the locals, they can point them out. You can find the images mainly at the facades. Occasionally you can find an image in a temple.

6.14. Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park. Here you will find one of the highest tiger populations in India, about 8 tigers per m2. There is also a large leopard population and several species of deer living in the park. The park itself is about 105 km2 and has a buffer area of about 400 km2 where the landscape varies between steep mountain ridges, forests and open meadows. The park offers different types of safaris, including a jeep safari and a safari on the back of an elephant.

6.15. Satpura Tiger spare

The Satpura Tiger reserve is the first reserve forest of India. The area is heavily forested. The national park serves to preserve the ecosystem, with its rich flora and fauna, including several endangered species. During a visit you will have the opportunity to see the protected area with natural heritage. By the way, you can undertake all kinds of activities, such as canoeing and hiking. In the park you will also find several sanctuaries used for worship.

6.16. Kanha Tiger reserve

In central India lies the Kanha Tiger reserve. Landscapes with dense forests and luxurious meadows provide a perfect habitat for various animals. From the mighty Bengal tiger to various species of plants, birds, reptiles and insects. This tiger reserve and the largest national park in the region covers an area of more than 900 km2. The reserve offers various safaris where you can see the wildlife up close. By the way, did you know that the forest in 'The Jungle Book' is based on primeval forests under which this reserve is based?!

6.17. Pench National Park

The heart of India is full of national parks. Another recommendation you will find here is the Pench National Park. This park is named after the Pence River that flows through the park. This nature reserve is also mentioned in the story 'The Jungle Book' which has contributed to the popularity of the park. Here you can spot wolves, bears and the Bengal tiger, along with many other wild animals. In Pench National Park you can enjoy a rich flora and fauna. The park offers various packages to discover this majestic park. There are also possibilities to spend the night in the park. Choose the package that best suits your needs and go on a voyage of discovery through the park.

6.18. Somnath Mahadev Temple

On the coast of the Arabian Ocean, in western India, lies the holy place Somnath Mahadev Temple. The temple has been reconstructed several times after being destroyed by Islamic invaders and rulers. The temple is an important place of pilgrimage. The highest point of the temple is 15 meters and has an 8 meter high flagpole at the top. Every evening the temple is illuminated. And there is a sound and light show. This is meant to offer pilgrims an ethereal experience at the temple against the sacred sounds of the ocean. Please note that cell phones, electronic devices and cameras are not allowed in the temple buildings.

6.19. Gateway of India

On the waterfront in South Mumbai lies the arch monument Gateway of India. This monument was built in the 20th century to commemorate the landing of the British King George V and Queen Mary during their visit to India in 1911. The monument was built in indi-Saracen style and the arch is 26 meters high. The Gateway of India overlooks the Arabian Sea and is the main tourist attraction of Mumbai. Also the locals gather here and you will find many street vendors and photographers. So don't skip the Gateway of India during a tour of India.

6.20. Della Adventure Park

Flat near Mumbai you will find Della Adventure Park, the largest extreme adventure park in India. Here you'll find more than 50 adventure activities like archery, buggy riding, paintballing and abseiling. If you're looking for thrills and aren't afraid of some adrenaline, you won't get bored here.

6.21. Darshan Museum

In the town of Pune, the Darshan Museum is dedicated to Sadhu Vaswani, a writer and mystic who lived between 1879 and 1966. Vaswani led a simple life and wanted to inspire others to live with kindness and compassion. In the museum you will make a journey through the life of Vaswani, using audio, video and multimedia. The interactive exhibitions try to convey the basic teachings of Vaswani to the visitors.

6.22. Brihadeeswarar Temple

The Brihadeeswarar Temple is one of the largest Hindu temple complexes in the world. You will find this temple in the south of India. It shows the great heights that the Chola rulers reached in the field of architecture. It was built using granite that came from sources about 60 kilometers away. The temple is built between large walls and inside there is a temple tower with a height of 66 meters. At the entrance there is a statue of a sacred bull made from a single petroglyph. Enjoy the unsurpassed view of the fascinating architecture of the Brihadeeswarar temple.

7. Book a round trip to India: compare providers and accommodations

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