travel information
climate
The finest weather in northern India occurs from October until the end of April. In autumn, the days are mild but the nights can become quite cold. At the height of winter, between December and January, days are crisp and sunny. During this time, temperatures typically range from a high of 23°C (73°F) to an overnight low of approximately 2°C (36°F). Spring is similar to autumn with warm temperatures, and the summer months of July through September see the onset of the monsoon when sunbursts follow heavy rains and temperatures hover between 35°C (90°F) and 25°C (77°F).
language
There are many distinct languages and dialects in India; in the north, Hindi and English are widely spoken. Road signs and directions are written in both.
currency
The national currency is the rupee. It is divided into 100 paisas. Traveller’s cheques are easy to cash and some banks in larger cities have ATM machines.
immigration requirements
Visas are required to enter, exit or transit through India. There are three tourist visas available: a 15-day single/double entry transit visa, a 90-day visa, and an extended six-month multiple re-entry visa. Travellers visiting other South Asia countries (such as Bhutan and Sri Lanka) and therefore requiring multiple entries into India are recommended to highlight their itinerary to the Indian visa application authorities to ensure correct visas are extended. Enquiries should be directed to the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.
health
Whenever travelling in India, reasonable precaution should be taken against hepatitis-A, malaria, cholera and typhoid. Drinking boiled or bottled water is often an adequate precaution against water-borne illnesses. Guests should consult their doctor and arrange travel insurance prior to departure.
travel tips
Electricity is 230 volts /50 cycles. India is plus 5 1/2 hours Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). During the winter months of December and January, warm clothes will be required particularly in the morning and evening. During autumn and spring, guests should pack light woollens for early morning and evenings with lighter clothing for the rest of the day. During the hot summer months it is recommended that guests wear light yet conservative attire. Guests should at all times travel with comfortable walking shoes and a wide-brimmed hat.
