What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to India

When planning a trip to India, the first thing you need to know is you are in for a life-changing experience to one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. Here are a few tips that can help take out some of the guesswork.

Be aware of the time of year when scheduling your trip. While India has several vastly diverse ecosystems ranging from arid desert regions to the snow-covered Himalayas and everything in between, it is still possible to pinpoint a best time to visit the country. If at all possible, try to plan your trip during the winter months, which will avoid the monsoon season from June through October, and the summer months, which can get excessively hot.

When packing clothing, take breathable items that can be layered, but be mindful of the culture. For women, that means avoiding tank tops, shorts and short skirts. While it is culturally acceptable to show your midriff, the opposite is true for your arms and legs. For men, similar standards apply. You are likely to stand out like a sore thumb if you walk around an Indian city wearing shorts and a tank top.

Pay a visit to your doctor in advance of your trip so you have time to make sure you are up to date with any necessary inoculations before you go. You should also go prepared with medications to prevent diseases like malaria, which your doctor can help you with.

Start your visa process early as it can take some time to obtain and you will not be able to enter the country without one. The CKGS website is a reliable source for applying for your visa, just be sure to follow all the instructions carefully.