Important Details

About India

July 10, 2025 On June 14, 2025

Shahpura Haveli, Neemrana Fort, Farewell Dinner, overnight in Delhi

Air Travel

Several major US cities offer direct flights to Delhi (DEL), including New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO), Washington, D.C. (IAD), Los Angeles (LAX), and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). Airlines such as Air India, United Airlines, and Delta offer non-stop services from these cities to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

For other US cities connecting flight options are available through major international hubs. Common layovers include London (LHR), Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), Frankfurt (FRA), and Amsterdam (AMS), with airlines such as British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and KLM providing connections to Delhi.

Visa & entry requirements

US travelers visiting India are required to obtain a visa before entering the country. The available e-Visa option is a convenient and fast way, allowing travelers to apply from the comfort of their home. You should complete the online application form with personal, passport, and travel details, and upload a recent passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport’s first page.

After submitting the form, pay the visa fee online. The e-Visa is usually approved within 3-5 business days and sent to your email. Print the e-Visa and carry it along with your passport when traveling to India. Upon arrival, you will need to present your e-Visa printout along with your passport, which should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. The Indian authorities may also ask for proof of return travel.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for US citizens. It’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines like MMR, DTP, and flu. For extra safety it is recommended but not required to get additional vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Malaria, Rabies, Cholera etc.

Safety and security

Your safety will be a top priority on the coach, in the hotels, at the sites and during the entire tour. But whenever you will be on your own safety and security are manageable with basic precautions. Stay alert in crowded areas, secure your belongings. Avoid staying alone outside for long periods, stay in well-lit areas, avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious of your surroundings.

Customs

Alcohol and tobacco have restrictions on the quantity you can bring, with a typical allowance of 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes.

Valuables like jewelry or large amounts of cash may require declaration at customs. Medication should be carried in its original packaging along with a prescription, especially for controlled substances.

Tour fitness level

This tour is designed to be accessible to travelers of all fitness levels and is not physically challenging. While there are some steep parts with inclines and steps to climb, these are generally short and manageable. The itinerary includes frequent comfort stops to ensure that guests can rest and stay comfortable throughout the day. As the walking is not long, the tour is suitable for any age group, and a low to average fitness level is required. The guests should be able to get on and off the bus on their on.

Tour leader / Tourist guide

Your tour will be led by certified, highly qualified guides with both local and international credentials, and over 13 years of experience in the field. They are dedicated to ensuring that your tour runs smoothly and will provide comprehensive and entertaining commentary throughout the journey.

With a deep knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and landmarks, they will enrich your experience with fascinating insights. In addition to guiding the tour, your tour leader will assist you with any needs or special requests, offering personalized service and 24/7 (in person, via call or message) availability to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.

Whether you need assistance with arrangements, simply have a question, or if you are facing any problem, your tour leader will be there to ensure you feel supported throughout your entire trip.

Although this is a group tour, we ensure an individual approach for each guest, with small groups of up to 20 people for a more personalized experience.

Transportation

Transportation during the tour will be arranged with a comfortable 50-seat coach, equipped with heating or air conditioning to ensure the right temperature for your comfort. The coach will also provide Wi-Fi and unlimited water bottles throughout the journey.

An experienced driver will be at the wheel, ensuring a smooth and safe ride. For airport and hotel transfers, separate, very comfortable cars will be arranged for different guests, offering a more personalized experience. This allows for a seamless and enjoyable journey from the moment you arrive until the end of your trip.

Currency

The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), available in notes of ₹10 to ₹2,000, and coins of ₹1 to ₹10. US dollars can be exchanged at banks or exchange offices, and ATMs are widely available in the cities for withdrawing INR. While credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, cash is still commonly used in smaller establishments.

Mobile payments via apps like Google Pay and Paytm are also gaining popularity in larger cities. It’s advisable to carry small denominations for easy transactions and tips, which are customary in India, especially for hotel staff, guides, and drivers.

For the best exchange rates, use local currency exchange services rather than airport kiosks.

Water

In India tap water is not safe to drink. It’s recommended to drink bottled water, which is widely available. On the tour, you’ll have unlimited access to bottled water on the bus, during meals, and in your hotel rooms, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Always avoid drinking tap water or also brushing your teeth to prevent any potential health issues.

Dress Code

In India you should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or cultural landmarks. For both men and women, this means covering shoulders and knees. Women may choose to wear long skirts or pants and tops with sleeves, while men should avoid wearing shorts at temples or other sacred places.

Comfortable, lightweight clothing is ideal for the hot climate, but it’s also a good idea to carry a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings. Always remove shoes when entering temples and some other cultural sites, so be prepared to wear socks or sandals that are easy to take off.

Accommodation

Throughout the trip, you will enjoy the luxury and comfort of 4 or 5 star accommodations, offering the highest standards of service and facilities. These premium hotels are carefully selected to ensure a superior experience, featuring spacious and elegantly furnished rooms with air conditioning, heating, and top-quality amenities.

You’ll find everything you need for a relaxing stay, including toiletries, tea/coffee-making facilities, and flat-screen TVs. In addition, you can enjoy delicious breakfasts to start your day, with a range of local and international options. For your convenience, all hotels offer porterage services, free Wi-Fi, hairdryers, ironing facilities, and 24-hour front desk assistance.

Meals

The tour includes all the meals. There will be 9 breakfasts, which will be served buffet-style at the hotels, offering a wide variety of options to start your day. 8 lunches and 9 dinners are also included, with meals provided at high-quality local restaurants / hotels, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience authentic regional cuisine.

Each meal will consist of starters, cold dishes, a main course with a side dish, and dessert, accompanied by tea and coffee. Special dietary requirements will be carefully considered, and customized meal options will be provided to meet any specific needs.

Climate

The climate in Northern India during the Golden Triangle tour varies, with hot summers and cooler winters. From March to June, temperatures can soar, especially in cities like Delhi and Agra, reaching up to 100°F (38°C). July to September brings the monsoon season, with heavy rains, though temperatures are slightly cooler.

The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is more pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), making it ideal for sightseeing. It can get cooler in the evenings, so packing a light jacket or sweater is recommended.

Time zone

India follows Indian Standard Time (IST), which is UTC +5:30. This means India is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

There is no daylight saving time in India, so the time remains the same throughout the year.

Power plugs

In India, the standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. The power plugs used are Type C, D, and M, which have two or three round pins. It’s a good idea to bring a universal plug adapter to ensure your devices can fit into the outlets.

If your electronics are not compatible with 230V, you may also need a voltage converter. The hotels provide plug adapters for guests, but it’s always better to come prepared.

Medical Assistance

Please contact your tour leader immediately, regardless of the hour, if you have any health issues. The tour leader will provide first aid if necessary or arrange a visit to a pharmacy or hospital. In India pharmacies and medical assistance is readily available in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur but not in the rural areas. Hospitals and clinics in the cities are equipped to handle most medical needs, and many have English- speaking staff.

As you may not be accustomed to local food and water, it is recommended to bring or take medications that help prevent gastrointestinal disorders, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is highly recommended as some remote areas may have limited access to healthcare.

Insurance

For U.S. travelers joining a tour to India, it is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other potential travel disruptions. While travel insurance is not mandatory to join the tour, it is essential for your peace of mind and safety during the trip.

Insurance should include coverage for medical treatment, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. We advise you to carefully review your policy to ensure it meets the specific needs of your journey. Having proper insurance will ensure you are well-protected in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Always keep a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact details handy.

Important documents to carry with you

Important Documents to carry for Traveling to India:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date)
Copy of your passport (stored separately for safety)
E-VISA
Travel insurance (printed copy)
Doctor’s note or prescriptions (if carrying prescribed medication)
Printed copy of flight details
Tour booking confirmation received by email with contact information of your tour leader and emergency contacts