Mumbai is what the Indians affectionately call - the 'City of Dreams'. This fabulous city is not only the financial capital of India that serves as the center of all trade and investments, but also a cultural center. Mumbai is where you can possess the most distinguished designer labels and products from various fashion houses that flood the busy malls. This is the one place where glamour is not an uncommon word and is reflected ostentatiously in the Bollywood film industry. Take a look at the beaches in Mumbai to witness some of God's amazing miracles- the magnificent sunsets over the Arabian Sea, which is a dream-like vision. In Mumbai, night is when the day truly begins, which is why Mumbai is also referred to as the 'city that never sleeps'.
Aurangabad is a city in Maharashtra state, in India. It’s known for the 17th-century marble Bibi ka Maqbara shrine, styled on the Taj Mahal. The nearby Shivaji Maharaj Museum, dedicated to the Maratha king Shivaji, displays war weapons and a coin collection. North of the city, the Aurangabad Caves comprise ancient, rock-cut Buddhist shrines. West of the city, battlements surround the medieval Daulatabad Fort.
Founded in 1400 AD on the bank of the Tapti River, the historical city of Burhanpur was once the capital of the Mughal Kingdom. An important outpost of the Mughals, Burhanpur was known as the gateway to southern India for its strategic location.
Ruled by Shah Jahan for a very long period, it is one of the most beautiful symbols of Mughal architecture and Mughal grandeur.
The magnificent mosques, tombs and palaces give you a sense of what Mughal life at its peak was like. Burhanpur's glorious and rich past will leave you fascinated and engrossed, just like a child.
Indore the vibrant city was built by Rani Ahilyabai, the brave Hilkar queen. Situated on the banks of the rivers Saraswati and Khan, the city has some beautiful monuments associated with the medieval Holkar dynasty.
Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh is a fascinating amalgam of scenic beauty, a proud heritage and modern urban planning. A harmonious amalgamation of the old and new, the old city with its teeming market places, beautiful mosques and quaint palaces still bears the aristocratic imprint of its former rulers.
At Orchha, 120 km from Gwalior, grandeur is captured in stone. The palaces and temples built by its Bundela rulers in 16th and 17th centuries, still retain much of their pristine perfection. Orchha is a town in Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh state, India. The town was established by Rudra Pratap Singh some time after 1501, as the seat of an eponymous former princely state of central India, in the Bundelkhand region. Situated on the Delhi-Chennai main line, Datia is mentioned in the Mahabharata as 'Daityavakra'. Among its main historical monuments are seven-storey palace of Raja Bir Singh Deo, built atop a hill, a temple with Mughal frescoes and Gopeshwar temple.
Gwalior is steeped with past splendour Gwalior Fort was built by Raja Mansingh Tomar and the fort dominates the city like a great monolith. It is one of the finest citadels of India. Gwalior is a city in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It's known for its palaces and temples, including the Sas Bahu Ka Mandir intricately carved Hindu temple. Ancient Gwalior Fort occupies a sandstone plateau overlooking the city and is accessed via a winding road lined with sacred Jain statues. Within the fort’s high walls is the 15th-century Gujari Mahal Palace, now an archaeological museum. Emperor Babut described it as "the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind".
Delhi has a number of tourist attractions, right from history to present. Museums, heritage, shopping -you name it, Delhi has it all. It’s astonishing heritage is the city's star attraction - both in terms of its monuments and its cultural offerings. Although there are sites in Delhi that one may tick off the travellers list, it is the Old Delhi area which has those lesser talked about places that cannot be missed.
Namaste and welcome to India. Arrive at Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. You will be met by our representative at the arrival lounge and then transfer to your booked hotel. (Rooms booked from 1400 hrs). Later half of the day free to relax and to recover from Jet Lag. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Mumbai - The thriving metropolis of Mumbai is a go-to destination for travellers curious to experience a modern Indian city. Lapped by the Arabian Sea, this urban seaside peninsula is a melting pot of old and new India. Towering office blocks and shiny apartment buildings shoulder crumbling grand dames of architecture. Men play cricket in the leafy central parks, taxis navigate the jam packed streets and families stroll along the seaside promenades of Mumbai, while kilometres away children beg on the peripheries of Asia’s biggest slum. In the wide avenue of Colaba’s high street, western culture overshadows the brightly lit storefronts, where Levi’s, Adidas and McDonalds vie for retail space.
After breakfast leave for day excursion to The Elephanta Caves by boat ride from The Gateway of India, is UNESCO World Heritage site is a fine specimen of rock cut architecture and art of medieval India. To state the trivial, there are no elephants in Elephanta! The name was given by the Portuguese as there was a large elephant sculpture in the island, when it was held by them. Otherwise this island was known as Gharapuri. The island is known for the 7th century caves with boldly executed mythical themes. Return by boat ride.
Afternoon visit Crawford Market - Oldest market of Mumbai inside a British building. Free time for shopping by your own. The bustling bazaars of the city. Walk around shopping memories and collecting odd souvenirs and the latest in fashion at the best bargains around places like Bhuleshwar and Kalbadevi. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel. Later proceed to enjoy your city tour of Mumbai. Drive past The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Outside), formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station. The building, designed by the British architect F. W. Stevens, became the symbol of Bombay as the ‘Gothic City’ and the major international mercantile port of India.
Drive past Bombay High Court - Beautiful British Heritage Building and the court is one of the most distinguished high courts in the country.
Drive past Dhobi Ghat; a well-known open air laundromat in Mumbai, India. The washers, locally known as Dhobis, work in the open to wash the clothes from Mumbai's hotels and hospitals. There are rows of open-air concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. Called the world's largest outdoor laundry.
Later you will be transferred to airport to board your flight. Upon arrival in Aurangabad, transfer to hotel check in and overnight stay at Aurangabad.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later, proceed to explore another Unesco Heritage Site Ellora Caves, also known as Verul is an archaeological site 29 km (18 mi) north-west of the city, built by the Rashtrakuta dynasty (Brahmanical & Buddhist group of caves ) and Yadav (Jain group of caves). Ellora Caves -These 34 monasteries and temples, extending over more than 2 km, were dug side by side in the wall of a high basalt cliff, not far from Aurangabad, in Maharashtra. Ellora, with its uninterrupted sequence of monuments dating from A.D. 600 to 1000, brings the civilization of ancient India to life. Not only is the Ellora complex a unique artistic creation and a technological exploit but, with its sanctuaries devoted to Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, it illustrates the spirit of tolerance that was characteristic of ancient India.
Later visit, Daulatabad Fort – Daulatabad is located at a distance of 13 km from Aurangabad. This fort, which was once known as Devagiri, is a magnificent 12th century fortress standing atop a hill. Daulatabad, which is constructed with excellent architecture, is one of the few invincible forts in Maharashtra.
Enjoy your nutritious breakfast at the hotel. Later proceed to visit the Ajanta Caves are about 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments which date from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 or 650 CE. Ajanta Caves - AJANTA is world's greatest historical monument recognised by UNESCO located just 55kms from Jalgaon city and 105kms from Aurangabad City of Maharashtra, India. There are 30 caves in Ajanta of which 9, 10, 19, 26 and 29 are chaitya-grihas and the rest are monasteries. These caves were discovered in AD 1819 and were built up in the earlier 2nd century BC-AD. Most of the paintings in Ajanta are right from 2nd century BC-AD and some of them about the fifth century AD and continued for the next two centuries. All paintings shows heavy religious influence and center around Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and incidents from the life of Buddha and the Jatakas. The paintings are executed on a ground of mud-plaster in the tempera technique.
Post visit of Ajanta caves proceed to Burhanpur. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel for overnight stay.
Burhanpur founded in 1400 AD on the bank of the Tapti River, the historical city of Burhanpur was once the capital of the Mughal Kingdom. An important outpost of the Mughals, Burhanpur was known as the gateway to southern India for its strategic location. Ruled by Shah Jahan for a very long period, it is one of the most beautiful symbols of Mughal architecture and Mughal grandeur.
The magnificent mosques, tombs and palaces give you a sense of what Mughal life at its peak was like. Burhanpur's glorious and rich past will leave you fascinated and engrossed, just like a child.
After leisurely breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Indore, enroute , visiting the ‘’ Omkareshwar the sacred land‘’ It can only be termed as a blessing, by Lords and mother nature, that the sacred island is shaped like Om - the holiest symbol of Hinduism. Not surprising then that this serene town is also one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines in India. Pilgrims in unimaginable numbers visit the shrine every year, seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva. Later, continue your drive to Indore, upon arrival check in at the hotel for overnight stay.
Indore: A trading hub between the Deccan and Delhi in the 16th century, the city of Indore was discovered by Rao Nandlal Chaudhary in mid-1710. Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar, with her keen interest in education and planning, built this city. Today, Indore, the state's largest city, offers a spectacle of majestic palaces co-existing with commercial centers. Apart from being considered as the state's commercial capital, it is also known for mouth-watering culinary experience. It is in the first 20 cities to be developed as smart cities. Indore, with its abundance, will make you ask for more like you did as a child for your favourite dish.
Enjoy your sumptuous breakfast, later hop out to explore the beauty of Mandu - mesmerizes you for all the right reasons. It is indeed one magical destination mostly preferred to be visited during Monsoon. This city is full of heritage sites like Rani Roopmati Pavilion, Hoshang Shah's tomb, Baz Bahadur Palace that makes it one of the popular tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh.
Floating over its own reflection, the Jahaz Mahal in Mandu looks like a ship that's about to sail. However, for centuries this ship made of stone and mortar never did. Instead, it stood floating over the twin lakes, bearing a silent witness to Mandu's long, rich and varied history.
The city of Mandu is adorned with spell-binding Afghan architecture surrounded by baobab trees, native to Africa. The grand palaces are still alive with royal romance while the gateways (darwazas) speak of a history of imperial conquests.
Post visiting Mandu, Later continue your drive to Maheshwar - Situated on the banks of river Narmada, Maheshwar appeals to both, the pilgrim as well as the tourist in you. The town possesses a treasure trove of beautiful temples that calm the soul, alongside man-made creations that please the eyes. A centre of handloom weaving since the 5th century, Maheshwar has been producing the exquisite Maheshwari sarees and fabric. Return to hotel for overnight stay.
Breakfast at the hotel, later check out and proceed to Bhopal enroute visiting Ujjain - is one of those divine lands in Madhya Pradesh where you not just feel the peace but also sink in the divinity that calms your soul from within. A major attraction here is Mahakaleshwar jyotirlinga. It is one of the 12 jyotirlingams, where Bhasma Aarti a daily ritual that you must attend. In order to attend the aarti, make sure to follow the dress code if you wish to go inside the sanctum and participate in Abhishek.
Other attractions to name a few are Harsiddhi temple, Kal Bhairav temple, Shri Chintaman Ganesh. At Kal Bhairav temple you can witness a unique tradition. The temple is dedicated to Kal Bhairav and the devotees offer liquor to the deity as Prashad.
Post visit of Ujjain the holy city, now we next embark to Bhimbetka - Cave paintings dating back to approximately 30,000 years. Rock shelters that were home to humans, millennia ago. And a rich flora and fauna surrounding these, indeed, make Bhimbetka a gift to us from our earliest ancestors. The Bhimbetka Rock Shelter has the oldest-known rock art in India, as well as is one of the largest prehistoric complexes to be seen. An archaeological treasure, Bhimbetka has around 243 rock shelters and have earned the honour of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We then continue our drive to visit Bhojpur before calling it a day at Bhopal. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel and later check out. Today we proceed for the sightseeing of Sanchi Stupa which takes approx. 1 ½ Hours. Sanchi visit -located around 46 kms away from Bhopal and easily accessible by road. It is known for housing the most beautiful Buddhist stupas. The town is blessed with the Buddhist saints, Mahamodgilya and Sariputra.
Later, in time transfer to the station to board the train for Orchha. Upon arrival meet and greet assistance at the station, drive to Orchha. Later, check in and overnight stay at the hotel.
The historic town of Orchha, nestled on the banks of river Betwa, was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput Chief, Rudra Pratap. Here, the river Betwa splits into seven channels, also called the Satdhara. Legend goes that this is in honour of the seven erstwhile Chiefs of Orchha. The ancient town seems frozen in time, with its many monuments continuing to retain their original grandeur even to this day. Here you will find some of the most fascinating temples and palaces that will help you realise a childhood fantasy - travelling back in time!
Breakfast at the hotel. Later, proceed for the short tour of Jahangir Mahal can be well described as a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectures. It is a striking stone structure built by Bir Singh Deo in the 17th century. King Bir Deo built the Jahangir Mahal to welcome Emperor Jahangir during his one day stay in Orchha. Building is a three storied building with a fountain in the center and the two statues of bowed elephants which makes us to explore the entire Mahal.
Later proceed to visit - An astonishing confluence of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the 7 storeyed Datia Palace stands tall in the historic city of Datia. While its exterior is adorned with arches, chhatris and oriel windows, the Bundela paintings beautify the interior.
Breakfast at the hotel. Later, proceed to Gwalior to explore the beautiful Gwalior Fort - Originally built in sandstone and lime mortar, the fort is one of the prominent structures in Gwalior. The fort has had a long history - sieged and captured by many rulers in the past. At one point of time, the Gwalior fort was regarded as north and central India's most invincible fortress. The fort houses two palaces, ‘Gujari Mahal’ and ‘Man Mandir’, which were built by Raja Man Singh Tomar during the 15th Century. It also houses numerous temples, built by various kings at different point of time.
In the evening you will be transferred to board your train to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi assistance at the station, then transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.
Breakfast at the hotel. Rooms booked till 1200 hours. Later check out and you will be transferred to board your onward journey to home.
Nestled in the heart of vibrant and bustling Mumbai lies our hotel Trident, Nariman Point. Soaring 35 storeys high, it offers panoramic views of Marine Drive or the Queen's Necklace, as the beautiful promenade is lovingly called. An iconic Mumbai landmark, featuring some of the best accommodations in the city, this is the luxury hotel address to be seen at. The 555 rooms and suites at Trident, Nariman Point, offer stunning views of the ocean and the five star Mumbai city skyline. Spacious and well-appointed with all modern amenities, including complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices, the rooms are complemented by our attentive yet unobtrusive service. Trident, Nariman Point is ranked amongst the best hotels in Mumbai. Head to one of the hotel’s award winning restaurants - Frangipani or India Jones, which offer cuisine ranging from Indian to Italian and Asian. Relax and rejuvenate in the calm environs of the Trident Spa or recharge with an energising workout in the fitness centre.
A palace style hotel, it is set in the midst of five acres of landscaped gardens. Discover a multi-cuisine fare at Latitude or indulge in Chinese teaand delicacies at The Tea House. Discover a wide range of drinksat the Tease Bar, and enjoy the best grills in town at Garden Cafe. As for business, choose from our well-furnished conferencing andbanqueting centers that are suitable for hosting business events and meetings.
MPT Tapti Retreat by MPT Hotels & Resorts offers you impeccable service and hospitality in Burhanpur, the city famous for its legacy of medieval architecture. This hotel, aptly located 6 km from the railway station, the hotel offers conference facilities along with quality food and clean ambience.
Lemon Tree Hotel, Indore welcomes you with cheery greetings, a friendly smile and a whiff of the signature lemon fragrance. Lemon Tree Hotels are the only midscale business and leisure hotels that uplift your spirits at the end of a long day. Lemon Tree’s ‘close to home’ comfort helps you unwind with its smart in-room amenities, vibrant café, recreation bar and fitness center. All this, at an unbeatable value. The hotel with its 100 smartly furnished rooms and suites, offers you a wide array of accommodation options. Room categories include Deluxe Room; Junior Suite; Studio Suite and Executive Suite.
Settled on the slope of the vibrant Shamla Hills is the majestic Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Bhopal. The palace is an amalgamation of British Colonial, Italian Renaissance, and Classical Greek architecture. Fringed with hues of floral appeals such as Bougainvillea, Champa and more, this abode of fine hospitality lives up to its royal status, so much that it compelled a visitor to claim, 'It is too intimate to be called a palace, too friendly to be called a hotel'. Experience a princely stay in our luxury hotel in Bhopal. The rooms and suites at Jehan Numa Palace, Bhopal, are opulent and laced with elegant decor. Our luxurious rooms in Bhopal are spacious and equipped with all kinds of modern amenities needed for a perfect stay in Bhopal. True to their nature, these palatial rooms exude an unbeatable royal charm.
Situated on the banks of river Betwa, about 18 Kms from Jhansi railway station, 'Orchha Resort' is located in a calm and serene zero polluted area. Completely away from the hustle –bustle of town . It is well connected by road and train from Delhi , Agra , Gwalior , Kanpur , Lucknow & Khajuraho. Acknowledged as one of the India's finest resort, no details over-looked, no luxury underplayed. With Well decorated 32 rooms we provide all international amenities and facilities. 'Kaleva" – the restaurant offers mouth watering Indian, Chinese & Continental cuisine. The lounge bar offers a variety of mocktails and cocktails. Drinks can also be enjoyed at the poolside. It also has a Spa which offers Kerala Ayurveda massages with steam bath. A small meeting or training session can be organized in the board room which is fully equipped with all conference facilities. Children can enjoy rides at the garden with outdoor games .It also offers tented accommodation situated in the gardens near chattries an excellent location for bird watchers. Orchha Resort is a great place to enjoy the true Indian flavour. Orchha is a great place in all seasons. Beautiful architecture & landscape, historical places & temples, zero Pollution Area, great vegetarian cuisine, 5star Amenities & Comforts. Don't miss! Come home to 'Orchha Resort' In your sojourn at this destination of Nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage, Orchha Resort shall be your gracious host.
Indian History has always been regaled with stories of royalty, yet few have ever been as opulent or gracious as Taj Usha Kiran Palace, a historical property of the Taj Hotels in India. Located on a lush 9-acre landscaped estate in Gwalior, beside Jai Vilas Palace, this white-and-yellow palace was built in 1880 by H H Maharaj Jayaji Rao Scindia (Scindia Dynasty of the Marathas) and since then has hosted royalty and dignitaries on myriad occasions. True to the aesthetic spirit of Gwalior, exquisite craftsmanship is the hallmark of the palace. Every nook and corner flaunts a tapestry of ancient stone carvings and delicate filigree work that tell a story. The lavish interiors of the hotel have their own share of treasures. The Royal Suites evoke Gwalior's royal heritage with period furnishings and ornate accessories such as Venetian mirrors, mother-of-pearl mosaics and canopied beds. The Luxury Villas offer privacy and exclusivity with a private pool and a sun bathing area. The indulgence extends itself to the ancient healing and wellness therapies of the famous Jiva Spa, which also offers royal treatments that originated at the 14th century spa in the magnificent Man Mandir Palace, Gwalior Fort. History is an ingredient that is all pervasive in Taj Usha Kiran Palace and finds favour even in its culinary flavours. Savour closely guarded recipes from the Maratha and Nepal royal kitchens accompanied by classical music from the Gwalior Gharana at Silver Saloon, the multi-cuisine restaurant. Dine under the sky at the palm-shaded The Court’s. The majestic meets the modern with contemporary amenities and technologies readily available for any meeting, event, exhibition, wedding or other social occasion. Designed to exceed expectations, professional service with a personal touch brings out the very best in every occasion, whether business or pleasure.
The Claridges, New Delhi has strived to be the best in business and has been successful in winning accolades of guests and fraternity. The Claridges houses some of the finest restaurants of the city, huge banquet halls, a rejuvenating fitness center, adequately furnished rooms, a pool with cabanas and lush green lawns to make your experience memorable. Comprising of elegantly adorned rooms, The Claridges offers you a plethora of rooms to choose from. Adequately equipped with all the facilities that you could possibly need, these rooms proffer an unconventional blend of the elegant style of architecture and the contemporary modern styles.
Journey to India.......once is not enough!!!!
BANKING AND CURRENCY
Currency
The Indian Rupee is the official currency of the Republic of India. The modern Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of INR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000. Please note that as of November 2016, the older 500 and 1000 INR note are no longer valid legal tender and only new ₹500 notes will be accepted.
The latest Indian Rupee coins are available in denominations of INR 1, 2, 5, 10.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent in cash, or US$10,000 or equivalent in all forms of currency must be declared. The export of foreign currency is allowed up to the amount imported and declared.
Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday-Saturday 10h00-03h30 (Bank will be closed on second and forth Saturday).
Strictly speaking, you can neither import nor export Indian currency, but you can get some at the airport straight away to at least get you transport to your accommodation. There are Authorized Foreign Exchange dealers in most big cities, and banks will also change your currency at a fair rate if you have time for the paperwork.
A good way of getting your travellers currency is via an ATM but beware of hidden bank charges, both from the bank providing the ATM and the card-issuing bank - you also do not know what exchange rate you are getting.ATMs are found in most towns and are recommended for cash withdrawals.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted in tourist hotels and many other shops. Debit cards are also widely accepted.
Travellers cheques are widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, most of which could not very well be described as efficient or punctual. Allow considerable buffer time for any journey with a fixed deadline (eg. your flight back), and try to remember that getting there should be half the fun.
India's large size and uncertain roads make flying a viable option, especially as prices have tumbled in the last few years. Even India's offshore islands and remote mountain states are served by flights, the main exceptions being Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh (although crossing over from neighbouring states is fairly easy). Due to the aviation boom over the last few years, airports have not been able to keep up with the air traffic. Most Indian airports continue to function with one runway and a handful of boarding gates. Check in and security queues can be terribly long, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Railways were introduced in India in 1853, more than one and half a centuries ago, by the British, and today India boasts of the biggest network of railway lines in the world, and the rail system is very efficient, if not always on schedule. Travelling on Indian Railways gives you the opportunity to discover the Indian landscape and scenic beauty first hand and is generally more economical than flying domestic. It is one of the safest ways of travel in India. With classes ranging from luxurious to regular, it's the best way to get to know the country and its people. Most train passengers will be curious about you and happy to pass the time with a chat.
In central locations of big cities like airports or stations reliable pre-paid taxis are available and will save you money as well as the bargaining hassle. However beware of touts who would claim themselves to be running pre-paid taxis. Always collect the receipt from the counter first. The receipt has two parts - one part is for your reference and the other part you will need to handover to the taxi driver only after you reach your desired destination. The taxi driver will get his payment by submitting or producing this other part to the pre-paid taxi counter. Normal taxis running by meter are usually more common. In many non Metro Cities (or even in Metros depending on time) taxies or autos may ply without the usual meter.
While you can't take a cross-country bus-ride across India, buses are the second most popular way of travelling across states and the only cheap way of reaching many places not on the rail network (eg. Dharamsala).
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is often unpasteurised and should be boiled. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from non-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Do not eat salads, vegetables should be cooked and peel your own fruit. Don’t eat street vendor food unless it is piping hot. Tap water is not safe to drink, rely on bottled water which is widely available. However, do check the seal on bottled water.
Indian food is world-renowned for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region and every spice has medicinal properties and use.
Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in the fruity, coconutty dishes of southern India, while northern India has an entirely different but equally satisfying cuisine to sample. Breads like paranthas, chapatis, naans and rotis are also part of the main diet in several states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Achars (pickles), relishes and chutneys again vary by region and add more resonance to amazing meals.
Sweets or mithai too have regional specialities. They tend to be milk based and some are syrupy and fried. Well-known northern sweets are gulab jamun, jalebi (it’s worth watching how these syprup-based confections are made in the street), kulfi, kheer, halwa and laddu. From the east are rasgulla and rasmalai. The south has several burfi and halwa-type desserts like coconut burfi and badam halwa made from almonds.
While care should be taken in where one eats, exceptional food can be had in the most humble surroundings such as food at ashrams as can be found in 5-star restaurants. Non-vegetarians will find fabulously spiced mutton dishes according to regional specialities including fish dishes typical to coastal areas.
10 to 15% is usual in restaurants that impose no service fee; optional where service fee is added to bill.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The weather is mainly hot most of the year with significant variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around the end of November to the beginning of March, with fresh mornings and evenings, and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.
CLOTHING AND DRESS RECOMMENDATIONS
Male or female, one rule covers all visitors to India: don't leave the house with your arms or legs bare. You'll naturally get attention as a foreigner, as full-on staring is common and accepted on Indian streets, but you'll suffer far less negative attention if you remain covered up. For most locations and seasons in India, thin, loose linen or cotton pants and button-down shirts will keep you comfortable in hot, humid weather and help you blend in. While you may see Indian young adults sporting tight jeans and fitted brand-name tops, you'd stand out significantly more in the same outfit. If you visit anywhere in northern India - not just the mountains, Delhi too - during the winter, prepare for seriously cold weather. Bring jeans and heavy shirts and pick up an Indian wool wrap.
What you can get away with at an Indian beach depends entirely on which beach you visit. In the state of Goa, a popular beach and club getaway destination, locals are accustomed to seeing tourists in bikinis on the beach and Indian men often sport Speedos. But skimpy clothes need to stay on the beach. Don't walk around town or your hotel in nothing but a bikini and sarong. In less Western-frequented beach destinations, such as the beaches around Bombay, Alibag and Chowpatty, or anywhere in the south, hit the beach in light pants and a tunic.
When visiting temples and other religious sites on your own or part of a tour, be on the lookout for signs advising visitors to dress in a specific way to enter the temple. The government of India advises that some religious institutions require visitors to cover their heads or remove their shoes, and covering your legs and arms in respect goes without saying. Certain sites may carry more specific requirements, such as donning a certain colored sash or sarong-like covering. Take your cue from other visitors exiting the site.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in India are the "Type D" 5 amp BS-546 sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in India usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliances are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.
