Climate:

The Indian winter is from mid-November to early March – with temperatures in the Northern plains ranging between 5°C to 22°C and in the South, between 22°C and 30°C. Summers in the North are hot with temperatures in May and June soaring to 45°C. South India is balmier with temperatures between 28°C to 37°C. The rainy season in the West, Central and North India starts from the last week of June and ends end August. The rains bring down the temperature and end the dry weather.

Religion:

India is a positive example of secularism. The major religion is Hinduism, followed by Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Jainism and Zoroastrians (one of the oldest religions on earth).

Health:

Qualified doctors and medical supplies are available at all towns; advanced hospitals with latest medical facilities are available at the larger cities. It is advisable to have one bottled mineral water during your tour and abstain or avoid eating pre-cut raw fruits and vegetables from smaller restaurants and outlets. Safe bottled cold drinks like coke, Pepsi etc., are available all over the country.

Indian Currency:

The official currency of the Republic of India is the Indian Rupee. India currency is issued and regulated by the Reserve Bank of India.

Security:

India is a safe destination. Armed assault and robbery is very rare. However, it is advisable to never leave your bags unattended and to keep valuables, money, passports etc., in the hotel safe deposit boxes. During travelling it is recommended to carry these items in a waist pouch.

Indian Customs:

Bringing in large quantities of gold, currency, electronic items, animal products and drugs are banned by Indian customs. Before you enter India, you will be given an Immigration Form to fill in details on dutiable items being carried by you.

Language:

The official language is Hindi but English is widely spoken across India. Besides English and Hindi, India has another 17 main regional languages.

Business Hours:

Most Indian shops are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Normal banking hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., except on Saturdays when they open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – with Sundays as the weekly holiday.

Reporting time for Domestic and International flights:

For domestic flights, reporting time is 1 hour before departure. For all international flights reporting time is 3 hours before departure. Many International Airlines require a reconfirmation of the flight 72 hours before departure. No reconfirmation is required for domestic flights.

Emergency Phone Numbers:

• Police: 100
• Fire: 101
• Ambulance: 102
• Accident & Trauma Service: 1099

Food:

India offers a range of delectable cuisine. Traditional Indian food is normally too spicy for the western palate. However, many restaurants and hotels all over the country provide buffet meals, which are a combination of Indian and Continental, food. At a la Carte restaurants, you may also ask for a less spicy platter to suit your taste.

Shopping:

India is known all over the world for its arts, handicrafts, cotton & silk fabrics, carpets, ethnic jewelry, Objet D'art etc. Also, a wide variety of international branded products are available in selected showrooms, priced at approximately 30 to 40% less than the European market.