Travelling in India

General Notes

• Early morning starts are often made to avoid the heat of the day, to avoid the rush hour traffic or simply because there may be a long, busy day ahead.

• Travelling by road is a unique experience with driving standards different to our own. Roads are shared with belching trucks, labouring camels, wandering animals, wobbly bicyles and zig-zagging rickshaws and all manner of other transport – noisy, vibrant and frenetic.

• Rail Travel - distances between the major cities are long and therefore we utilise India’s massive rail network. These journeys which frequently travel in the evening after dark, are undertaken therefore for comfort and speed rather than for sightseeing per se.

• Illness in India can simply be caused by the change of climate and diet and totally unrelated to hygiene issues. Avoiding dehydration by drinking water regularly (not alcohol) helps to maintain your health.
• India is a land of extremes so be prepared to encounter side by side both poverty and opulence.
• Tipping is a way of life in India and anyone who provides any kind of a service (and some who don’t!) is likely to ask for a tip. Further guidance will be given before travel.
• Hawkers are also commonplace but our tour managers and guides will do everything possible to protect you from their excesses.
• Some of our itineraries visit towns at high altitude in India and in neighbouring countries. Travellers who suffer from any lung or heart condition should contact their local GP for advice.

• Hotels are generally medium class and a number of heritage hotels are also featured. These character properties, often former palaces, do not have lifts or all the facilities of modern, purpose-built hotels.

• Mobility – our tours involve much walking especially when sightseeing, frequently over uneven terrain, and in towns so a degree of fitness and mobility is essential. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are able to keep up with the group and its activities.