India Travel Guide: Passports, Visas & Travel Tips

Passport & Visa Requirements

Visa Requirement:

• Visas are required for all nationalities except Indian passport holders.
• You must obtain a visa before departure; visas are not available on arrival.

Passport Validity:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in India.

Visa Validity:

• Indian visas are valid from the date of issue, not from the date of entry.
• Example: A 6-month visa issued on January 1 will expire on June 30, regardless of entry date.

Tourist Visa Rules:

• Tourist visas (6-month validity) may allow a maximum of 90 days per visit, depending on your nationality.
• There is a minimum 2-month gap between consecutive tourist visa entries.

Special Permits:

• A separate permit is required to visit Sikkim and Bhutan, which can be applied for when submitting your Indian visa application.

✅ Tip: Always check visa specifics and visit your local Indian embassy website for the most updated regulations.

Try to Cover Less & Experience More

• Plan a relaxed itinerary with fewer destinations to fully experience each place.
• When on safari, please blend in with the environment by wearing green or camouflage clothing.
• India is vast and travel can be tiring; allow time to rest and absorb the atmosphere.
• Spending more time in one place helps you connect with locals and understand their culture.

• India offers a rich tapestry of culture, festivals, spirituality, and history.
• Expect chaotic traffic, crowds, loud noises, and cultural differences.
• The roads in jungles and national parks are bumpy and not as smooth as normal, as you are in a jungle/national park.
• Be open and flexible. Embracing the differences will lead to a more meaningful experience.

• Many wildlife and jungle resorts are eco-friendly and may not include TVs.
• Hot water is provided, though you might need to wait a few minutes.
• Resorts may offer nature walks, yoga, cooking demos, and cultural shows. Check with your tour manager or hotel when you check in for any extra activities.

• Remove footwear before entering temples, mosques, or other religious sites.
• Wear modest clothing: avoid tank tops, shorts, short skirts, or see-through outfits.
• Carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when needed.

• Even with precautions, travelers often experience Delhi Belly.
• Carry anti-diarrhea medication and stay hydrated. Be cautious with street food and water.

• Big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai are rich in history.
• But rural India offers authentic cultural experiences, a slower pace, and cleaner air.
• Villages showcase the "true India" with unique traditions and hospitality.

• Wear easy slip-on shoes for convenience.
• Most religious sites offer footwear storage services for a small fee.
• When doing a jungle safari, please wear closed footwear that is durable and easy to handle on the undulating surface in the forest when you get down at designated areas.

• A local SIM helps with navigation, communication, and safety.
• Available at airports – you can use data to call home via WhatsApp.
• Wi-Fi is available at many hotels, but it is often unreliable; mobile data is a safer bet.

• Don't hesitate to ask your guide for help if you’re unwell.
• Pharmacies are cheap and offer effective medications.
• Seeing a doctor is usually affordable and of good quality.

• Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, basic medication, and drinking water. When a packed breakfast is provided, you will receive RO water. If you want bottled water, please advise your tour manager.
• These items will make your travel safe and comfortable as you'll need to use them frequently during the day.

• Weather (fog, rain, snow during winter) can delay trains, flights, or road trips.
• Allow extra time and pack a good book or magazine, or download content for delays. Your journey will continue. Your tour manager will guide you.

• Travel insurance is essential when traveling anywhere, including India.
• Travel insurance covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, or cancellations. If the insurance covers the treatment cost, it will be reimbursed. Before departure, always read the PDF of the insurance cover.
• It provides peace of mind, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.

• RAPSAFARIS does not promote specific shopping malls.
• We are not responsible for shopping-related grievances.

• Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) – common denominations: ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500.
• Keep small notes for tips, meals, and local travel.
• Exchange money at authorized changers – avoid unauthorized vendors.
• Credit cards are accepted in most urban areas; ATMs are widely available.

• RAPSAFARIS supports local communities and sustainable travel.
• Travel is all about experiencing another culture, cuisine, customs, and sights.
• Travel is not just about visiting national parks and tiger reserves; it’s about people, culture, and seeing wildlife in its natural habitat, which will create memories for a lifetime. Let’s explore wildlife in India responsibly.