Feeling overwhelmed planning the first trip to India? Planning a trip to India can be a lot, but with this checklist, travelers can be sure to cover everything they will need and what to pack for India.
India is a feast for the senses, a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells.
To truly experience the country’s charm, visitors must accept its uniqueness and embrace its flaws. Let’s begin with visa preparations and India pre-travel checklist.
Travelers must pack the following items:
Travelers must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their date of entry into India. Two blank passport pages are required for their Indian visa application and entry stamps.
Short-term tourist visas can be obtained conveniently through Natvisa. A paper visa must be applied through the authorized visa center for stays exceeding 60 days or for individuals intending to work or study in India.
The application process typically involves completing an online form and submitting supporting documents via mail.
Choose the appropriate visa type (e.g., tourist, business, medical).
Remember, applicants need to choose a visa type that meets their needs. They can choose a regular paper visa. If they are from an e-Visa eligible country, they can apply for 30 days, 1 year, 5 year tourist e-Visas.
Prepare recent passport-sized photographs as per the specified dimensions and background color. The recommended size is 2 inches x 2 inches (51 mm x 51 mm). Please note it should not be blurry or have red eyes. Cellphone images are allowed, provided they meet the visa image requirements.
Depending on the visa type (tourist e-Visa, regular visa, business visa), travelers will also be required to possess the necessary documents. This will include return flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and financial statements.
Pay the visa application fee, which varies based on the visa/e-Visa type and nationality. The fees for an India visa vary from season to season and for individual or group tourist visa processing.
Visitors must check if any vaccinations are recommended or required for travel to India. Besides the Yellow Fever vaccine for travelers from affected areas, India does not usually require any other vaccinations.
However, checking the latest vaccination recommendations from the nearest embassy is advisable.
Tourists must consult online resources for comprehensive information tailored to their itinerary. It is advised to have the following:
Travelers must purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering health, trip cancellation, and baggage loss. When selecting travel insurance, they must carefully consider their preferences and needs by comparing various insurance packages.
First, it is advised to check the medical coverage. Then, check the coverage for lost or delayed baggage and personal items. Finally, check the support available in case of emergencies, delays, or changes to the plans.
When traveling to India, international tourists must carry any prescribed medications and a basic first-aid kit. Consider bringing mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Bring sufficient regular medications for the entire duration of the trip, along with a small first-aid kit, especially if venturing off the main tourist routes.
Please don’t forget to verify that all necessary medications are permitted for import into India. It is recommended to carry prescriptions or doctor’s notes to substantiate their usage.
However, obtaining prescription medications in India is a straightforward process. Many drugs that require prescriptions in the home country are readily available over the counter at Indian pharmacies, often at significantly lower prices.
The amount of cash a visitor should bring depends on their spending plans. If they intend to make significant purchases, such as silks, jewelry, or home décor, carry more cash. However, avoid carrying excessive amounts, as petty theft is not uncommon in India.
Currency exchange rates are typically better, so exchanging dollars for rupees upon arrival in India may not be a problem. Moreover, currency exchange services are available at hotels, banks, and even mall kiosks.
If a traveler runs out of cash, ATMs at banks provide rupee withdrawals, but ATM fees may apply. Thus, they can obtain some Indian Rupees (INR) for initial expenses upon arrival.
Travelers must note that possession of satellite phones is prohibited in India. Currency exceeding 5000 USD and traveler’s cheque of USD 10000 must be declared upon arrival. Contact the Indian Embassy for guidance if the travelers intend to bring a significant amount of currency into India.
Travelers are advised to refer to the local Indian regulations. Before exiting India with large amounts of foreign currency and rupees, they must report it to the authorities.
Choose culturally appropriate and comfortable clothing. Lightweight, quick-dry fabrics are ideal. The clothes a visitor will wear will depend on the weather and customs of the place they plan to visit. Be prepared to cover up more in religious sites or conservative areas.
Travelers are advised to familiarize themselves with local customs, dress codes, and etiquette.
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, a pivotal global entry point, welcomes a myriad of visitors to India each day, accommodating both tourists and business travelers. The airport is equipped with the India eVisa system for entry.
India uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with types C, D, and M plug sockets. Therefore, travelers must bring appropriate adapters. A portable charger comes in handy, especially during overnight train journeys. A universal plug adapter is also useful for hotels.
However, it’s easy to purchase a simple phone charging plug at the airport upon arrival. Remember, India’s plug sockets are designed to accommodate 3-pin round plugs (Type D). Additionally, bring extra camera batteries, as they may be harder to procure in India compared to the home country.
Don’t forget to include a plug adapter and an extra phone charging cord to cater to any unexpected situations.
Note down the emergency contact numbers in India, including local embassy/consulate details. Make copies of the passport, visa, and flight ticket and keep them separate from the originals.
Leave copies at home and store them electronically for easy access.
It is always best to plan the transport from the airport to the tourist’s place of stay. Consider pre-booking a taxi or using a reliable app-based service. To ensure that the gadgets stay powered up throughout the journey, pack a portable charger, especially for extended bus rides. This is important for women travelers.
India is a land of vibrant festivals, many of which take place during the winter months. Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated in October or November. Meanwhile, Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated in March or April.
These festivals offer a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in Indian culture and traditions. It’s recommended to plan a basic schedule with potential places to go, considering local weather and celebrations.
The best time to visit India depends on the visitor’s personal preferences and the regions they plan to explore. If a tourist seeks pleasant temperatures and sunny days, November to March is the ideal time to travel to both North and South India.
However, if they’re drawn to the lush greenery and waterfalls of the monsoon season, July to September may be an appealing choice. October to March offers a wealth of cultural immersion opportunities to experience India’s vibrant festivals. This is the reason why tourist visa fees is higher in the winter months.
While India is often associated with scorching heat, this isn’t always the case. Pack warm layers to transition from warm days to cool nights. Travelers may still wonder what to wear in India. It is advised to wear modest clothes, and packing a pair of flip-flops is a good idea.
It is best to pack appropriate clothing considering the weather and cultural norms. Include items like hats, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. When planning the wardrobe, factor in the time of year and the specific destinations in India. Northern India during December and January can be quite chilly, requiring warmer clothing options.
India’s sanitation standards may not align with everyone’s comfort levels. If a tourist prioritizes cleanliness, bring along wet wipes and antibacterial soap for added comfort. Carry a small roll of toilet paper or travel pack, as it’s not always available in public restrooms.
Consider buying a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for the mobile phone. Remember, requirements and recommendations can change, so it’s important to check the most current information before the trip to India.
Avoid overpacking to leave ample space for shopping opportunities. Opt for a quick-dry, compact travel towel for convenience. Don’t fret about forgetting an item; it simply provides an excuse for further shopping adventures!
Tourists planning to go to India must make note of the following:
Having a checklist for India travel and thorough preparation can make the journey to India more enjoyable and stress-free.
India has introduced an eVisa for yoga, aiming to attract global yoga enthusiasts and bolster its wellness tourism by providing easy access to the country’s rich yogic traditions and programs.
Planning and preparing well is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to India. Due to frequent changes in India’s visa regulations, travelers must stay informed and consult the Bureau of Immigration website or local embassy for the latest requirements. Alternatively, the Natvisa team is always there to help travelers with all their queries.
This guide helps travelers with India visa preparations, packing, and understanding local customs for their trip. By following these guidelines, visitors can embark on the Indian adventure with confidence and excitement.
This content has been reviewedThe content on this page has undergone a thorough review by Gunjan Shukla, ensuring its accuracy, relevance, and quality. It’s important to always check with relevant authorities as entry policies can change.
See Natvisa content review process.
