How we look after you...

How are we different!

There are some crucial areas in which Rediscover India Tours differs from other tour operators in India. In the planning stages of your trip, through your initial arrival and transfers, your transport and travel arrangements and the way we deal with any problems you may encounter, we offer an unparalleled level of service and professionalism at every stage.

How do I plan my trip with you?

All of our itineraries can be customised to whatever degree you wish; indeed this is where our knowledge and experience help us to stand apart. The pre-designed itineraries we offer are found on the Packages page. These are all tried and tested over more than a decade of operations in India. If one of these programmes looks right for you, all you need to do is contact us and once we have your arrival dates and a little more information, we can proceed with a booking straight away. You may find however that with the vast array of travel options in India you would like to visit other centres, take a little more time in one place or less in another, or indulge in another area of interest altogether. In this case please contact us to discuss the ideas you have.

What happens when I arrive in India?

One of the ways in which Rediscover India Tours will help make your trip to India easier is to have our representatives assist you to make all your transfers. You will be met at the airport by one of our professional team who will be carrying a placard bearing your name. He will deliver the pre-prepared docket to you containing your itinerary, your vouchers & other travel documents. The same standard of care will be available to you whenever you make an internal connection by air or rail and again on your final departure from India. You will be assisted and advised throughout your stay with us.

What modes of travel do you use?

There are many ways to get around in this vast country. We use whichever combination of travel modes best suits your itinerary. Some of these are listed below: Private Car with Driver The best way to see India is by road — you are close to life the way the locals live it and you will have the best opportunities to stop, engage and interact with the people as you make your way through cities, towns, villages and rural landscapes. The pace of travel on our tours is never rushed — we believe you will see far more, and enjoy yourself more, taking time to properly explore India rather than rushing through merely stopping at the 'photo op' sites. India's roads are quite different from the west. The highways and byways of the country are far more than just a way to get from A to B — life itself is on display along the roadside. Travel averages around 40 kilometres an hour and we tailor our tours to include no more than 6 hours driving in any one day, unless it is unavoidable. We value our drivers as they add many levels to your travel experience, they pass on feedback about hotels, new places etc. They are not licensed guides and cannot take you inside monuments or temples to give detailed explanations. It is usual for drivers to sleep in the car, they get an overnight allowance but most choose to sleep in the car rather than take a room. They feel it is a good security cover for the car and they are also onsite if you need any assistance. Various types of vehicles are available — we will recommend the appropriate one for the number of people travelling in your party. Most travel in India runs smoothly and with a minimum of hassle for you. In the unlikely event of problems occurring, our drivers have either a mobile phone or quick access to communication with any of our offices to enable difficulties to be overcome and allow you to get on with your holiday. Plane Over the past few years budget air travel has emerged in India — this is a great boon to the visitor. Previously the only way to cover long distances was by train which could easily eat up several days of your valuable holiday time. It is now possible to fly between all the major places of interest with ease, meaning you can cover several parts of the country in a shorter period of time. This does not necessarily need to be expensive. Train One of the world's largest employers, Indian Railways is more than just an extremely well run business — it is part of the lifeblood of India. Train travel is another wonderful option for part of your journey through the country. From the famous Nilgiri mountain railway in Tamil Nadu to the Palace on Wheels in Rajasthan, the diversity of rail options is a great as that of India herself. If you take an overnight 'sleeper' journey, bedding is provided. Auto rickshaw The ubiquitous yellow and black auto rickshaw (or just "auto") is as much a part of the life of the country as cricket, chapatti and Sadhus. Best enjoyed over short distances, auto travel is a sure way to get close to life on the street in any town or city. You may have almost as much fun bargaining over your fare as in the actual trip itself.

Travelling to and through India...

Do I need a Visa to enter India?

All visitors to India require a Visa which MUST be obtained before arrival in the country. The usual visa is valid for 6 months from the time of issue and is good for multiple entries to the country. Visas are issued by all Indian embassies and consulates and can take up to 2 weeks to process.

What Immunisations do I need before visiting India?

Check with your doctor — recommended vaccinations for travel to India include Hepatitis A/B and Tetanus. We do not recommend taking malaria medication — the disease is now virtually non-existent in areas tourists will visit — sadly, the same cannot be said for mosquitoes which are still widespread.

What is the climate like and what is the best time to visit?

India has a vast range of climatic conditions from tropical in the south to alpine in the north. Most of the country outside the Himalaya region is at its best for travel between October and March. At this time, days are mild to warm, nights comfortable and rain (expect in the south east) is very rare. From April onwards the humidity level rises with the temperatures and with the onset of the monsoon in June travel can be difficult in places. The advantages of travel outside the peak season are reduced tariffs, and fewer tourists. At virtually any time of the year, some part of India or other will be suitable to visit.

Is all Indian food very spicy?

No. India is justly famous for some of the world's best food and here you can enjoy it in all its glory. Food hygiene standards in hotels and resorts are now near world class and a few sensible precautions will minimise any chance of getting sick. As you travel around you can safely eat at small local restaurants along the way. If you wish to eat Chinese or Continental style cuisine, this is available at mid range to deluxe hotels throughout the country. We recommend that u refrain from drinking tap water and always opt for packaged water bottles.

What extra costs will I incur while I am in India?

We try to make our tour prices as 'inclusive' as possible so you will not be surprised with extra 'hidden' costs as you go along. A meal can cost anything from Rs100 in a roadside eatery to Rs2500+ in a luxury hotel (US$ 1.5 – US$ 45 per person). How much you will spend depends on your own tastes of course, but if you allow Rs150 per person for lunches and Rs300 for dinners you will eat very well. Shopping in India is legendary and with good reason. Beautiful and unique handicrafts and art works can be purchased from a few hundred rupees upwards; with virtually no upper limit provided you are willing to pay for items to be shipped back to your home address.

What about tipping?

From the moment you arrive you will see that India runs on tipping, from the person who carries your bag, delivers your food or drives your vehicle. Wages are generally very low and most people in service industries make the bulk of their living by tips. For a room boy who carries your bags to the room a 10–20 Rupee tip is fine. A similar amount is OK for the boys who come and clean your room. In restaurants work on 10% and the tip will be reasonable. There is no set amount as is the case in other countries.

Will I get sick?

Staying healthy in India is really just a matter of common sense. Some people may find that their body takes a few days to adjust to the different foods but generally if you observe a few simple rules like only drinking bottled water and eating freshly cooked foods you will probably find that after a short time in India you feel better than you have in years!

What about my Personal Security?

The safest way to carry your tickets, passport and travellers cheques is in a money belt worn under your clothing. India is generally a safe place and you would be extremely unlucky to have anything stolen. It is wise to take precautions and always be alert. Small amounts of money can be carried in a bum bag or shoulder purse. This ensures you do not need to pull out a pile of 100Rs notes for a 10Rs purchase. All hotel rooms have secure locks and some people prefer to leave their suitcase locked inside the room. For air and train travel your bag should be securely locked. It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and tickets and the serial numbers of your Traveller's Cheques. If you are unlucky enough to lose any of these valuable items it will greatly assist in replacement.

Which is the best period to visit India?

India is a big country - almost a sub continent and one part or the other is always worth visiting due to the favourable weather. However, in general, most of the places in plains are best visited from October - March and the ones at the higher reaches are best experienced in summer (April - September). Of course the monsoon rains are a big attraction these days.

Is visa required for India?

Yes, actually it is a must. You cannot get it upon arrival.

What is the official name of India?

Bharat' in Hindi or Republic of India in English.

What is the currency of India?

It is Rupee, being equal to Rs. 100 paisa. The denominations in which it is available are: Rs 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 & 5. Coins are available in Rs. 5, 2, 1 & Paisa 50.

Which is the capital of India?

New Delhi, also referred to as the National Capital Territory (NCT) .

What is the population of India?

According to the 2001 Census, it is 1, 027, 015, 247. India is said to have crossed the billion mark in the year 1997.

Is Goa in India?

Yes, it is very much a part of India, though Portuguese had ruled it for about 451 years. It has a coastline of 103 km and is situaed on the western part of India. It is not an island rather a part of the mainland.

What about photography in India - can I take pictures of people, monuments, wildlife, airports, etc? In general Indian people like to be photographed with foreign tourists. You could in general take photos of public, market, streets, building, etc without any hesitation.

However, while shooting ladies, close-up of people, it is advised to seek permission first. At the monuments and wildlife sanctuaries, it is usually allowed by paying a prescribed camera fee. In case you wish to make a documentary or movie, in that case a special permission is required which has to be obtained from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in advance. At the airports and railway stations, usually photography is not permitted.

What types of clothes are required to be worn at religious places and in general anywhere in India? During summer months, light woollens and during winters, warm clothing is a must. As India is a warm and humid (coastal region) country, light colour lose fitting long

garments would do well. While visiting temples and mosques, one should have preferably shoulders and head covered with a scarf or handkerchief as well as legs fully covered, especially in case of ladies. One is usually expected to enter without footwear inside a temple. At places, non-Hindus may not be permitted at the sanctum sanctorum of temples. Of course one can even try Indian outfits (like Qurta - Pyjama, Salwar Qurta, etc) which are cotton clothes, being very comfortable wear. While visiting the wildlife sanctuaries, one should wear only beige, khaki, white or camouflaging clothes (not the bright coloured ones). At beach destination like Goa, easily you could use beachwear, shorts, etc.

Is smoking allowed in India?

Now all public places in India are declared non smoking zones, hence you must look for proper place which is meant for smoking. If found smoking just about anywhere, one could be fined for that.

What voltage is used in India?

Here we have 220 - 250 V electricity supply. In India there are different plug-in pins than in Europe or other countries. Hence it would be a good idea to bring in t he multi-plug and dry cells from home country. Though most of the big star hotels do provide them now.

How about the night life in India?

India is not really known for the night life, but yes, there are plenty of discos, night clubs, bars & shopping areas that are open till late, mostly in bigger cities and starred hotels. Though Mumbai and Goa are better known for it.

What is the total Length of India's Coastline?

India's coastline extends to 7600 km.

How safe is water in India?

At starred hotels, in general, it is quiet safe where they provide you filtered water, however, you should usually stick to the mineral water at all places. However, never try the same from roadside taps, or open air restaurants, etc. As you are in a different country and your stomach is not used to this water, it is best to only use bottled mineral water.

Is tipping customary?

Yes, it is well accepted. Usual is 10% at the restaurants. Also the porters at airports (except metro cities in India), hotel bell boys, private driver, etc would be happy to have it at the end of their good and dedicated service.

Which are the Major Religions of India?

Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism.

What is the percentage of literacy in India?

India's literacy rate stands at 65.38%.

What are the national symbols of India?

Animal - Tiger; Bird - Peacock; Fruit - Mango; Tree - Banyan; Game - Hockey; Four headed lion is the official government emblem

Who designed the Victoria Memorial at Calcutta?

The Victoria Memorial at Calcutta was designed by William Emerson.

Who designed city of Delhi and Chandigarh?

Edwin Lutyens (British) designed Delhi and Le Corbusier (French) designed Chandigarh

Which places have been Portuguese & French territories in India?

Goa, Daman & Diu have been Portuguese colony while Pondicherry and Mahe were ruled by French

Where did Vasco da Gama land in India in 1498? Who conquered Goa in 1510?

Vasco da Gama land in India at Calicut (Kozhikode). However, Afonso De Albuquerque conquered Goa later.

Taj Mahal and Red Fort in Agra were built by whom?

Shah Jehan the Mughal Emperor.

Where is the oldest standing fort located

At Bandhavgarh wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh India.

Number 0 and the game of chess were invented in which country?

Of course India!

Which is the oldest living city in the world?

Varanasi or Banaras

Where are one of the oldest residential universities ruins located?

At Nalanda in Bihar, famous for Buddhist & Pali teachings

Which of the following tombs is an imitation of the Taj Mahal?

Bibi ka Maqbara is an imitation of the Taj Mahal. At the same time, the Humayun's tomb in Delhi is called the predecessor of Taj Mahal

Which city is closest to the geographical center of India?

Nagpur is the city, closest to the geographical center of India.

Which is the highest peak in the Western Ghats? Where does Mount Everest lie?

The Anai Peak is the highest peak in the Western Ghats. In Nepal lies the highest peak in the world (8848 mt).

Which state in India has winter monsoon?

Tamil Nadu has Winter monsoon. Rest of the stated get it during June - September.

Which classical Indian dance is traditionally performed by men?

Kathakali is the classical Indian dance traditionally performed by men.

Which is the famous mosque situated in New Delhi, that is also one of the largest in India?

Jama Masjid is the famous mosque in New Delhi.

How many Indians have won the Nobel prize?

6 Indians have won the Nobel prize (Rabindranath Tagore for literature, Sir CV Raman for science, Hargobind Khurana for medicine, Mother Theresa for peace, Amartya Sen for economics).

Which places in India are also called pink city, blue city, golden city?

Jaipur, Jodhpur & Jaisalmer respectively.

In which state would you find lions?

Lions can be found only in Gujarat at Gir forest.

What is the best thing to do if pestered by beggars and street urchins?

Well, you can start by ignoring them completely and if they get too persistent give them a stern look. If at all you must give them something, pay a small amount of Re 1 or 2.

How good is the connectivity in India?

Indian destinations are well connected by flights, vast network of trains and of course by road. If you have sufficient time, you should usually travel with a combination of road and rail so as you can get to see more of real India. Of course after the recent aviation boom, now there are so many flights possibilities for the modern jet set tourists.