Unforgettable holidays to India from the UK: Explore the Incredible India!

Practical information to prepare for your holidays to India

Best Time to visit India 

The optimal time to explore India depends on the experiences you seek and the regions you plan to visit. For a delightful adventure across most parts of the country, from the iconic Taj Mahal to the serene backwaters of Kerala, the months of October to March offer pleasant weather, making it an ideal window for cultural immersion and sightseeing. If you’re drawn to the allure of the Himalayas for trekking or spiritual retreats, the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to October) are perfect.

Passport and Visa formalities for UK citizens traveling to India.

An Indian visa is mandatory for all UK citizens to travel to India. One can get an e-visa on the official website () of Indian Immigration.

Health and Safety Tips 

Your safety is our priority. We provide essential safety tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable journey. Additionally, our health guidelines will help you prepare for any health-related considerations during your stay in India.

Money: 

Money used in India is Indian rupees. You can change very easily British Pounds to Indian rupees in an exchange office that you can find easily everywhere.

Clothing 

It’s important to adopt modest and respectful attire that aligns with the local cultural norms. Opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, such as tops with sleeves and knee-length bottoms. Loose-fitting and breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal for the country’s diverse climates. Carrying a scarf or shawl can be useful to drape over your shoulders when visiting religious sites. While major cities may be more lenient, in rural areas and when visiting temples, a more conservative dress code is appreciated. Embracing traditional attire, if you’re comfortable, can also enhance your cultural experience. By dressing thoughtfully, you show your respect for India’s traditions and make your journey even more enriching.

Shopping

Shopping as a foreign tourist in India is a captivating experience that offers a kaleidoscope of choices. From bustling markets filled with vibrant textiles, intricate handicrafts, and aromatic spices to modern malls boasting international brands, India’s shopping scene caters to diverse tastes. Engage with local artisans to discover unique souvenirs like handwoven textiles, exquisite jewelry, and intricate woodwork. Bargaining is often part of the process, adding a fun element to your shopping adventure. Remember to respect local customs, be prepared for an immersive cultural exchange, and take home not just products but also cherished memories of India’s vibrant markets and bazaars.

Some do’s and don’ts while traveling in India (travel advice) 

• It is advisable to get travel insurance for theft, loss, and medical insurance.
• Always carry proper maps of the related places to visit in India, as signboards are often absent. Try to reach a station during the daytime if traveling on your own.
• In any case, avoid persistent touts and taxi drivers at airport/railway stations/bus stands to help you find your hotel. Always use the tourist assistance desk for proper advice.
• Women should not travel alone in certain lonely places and avoid going to any place, especially at late night.
• Don’t enter a religious or spiritual place with shoes on and/or scantily dressed. One should cover his/her head with a cloth while entering there.
• Leather articles are forbidden to be carried in Hindu and Jain temples. Don’t take photographs without permission. It is always written on the board where photography is prohibited. Don’t photograph women without permission.
• Insist on an authorized money changer for exchanging your money. Don’t take out your cash in an open area.
• Do not encourage beggars. You will mostly find them in front of monuments in India.
• Do not check out of the hotel in a hurry. While checking out it has been noticed in some hotels, the extras are unreasonably charged which the guest hurriedly pays without cross-checking.
• Do not leave your cash and valuables in your hotel rooms. Keep your cash separately in different pockets.
• Always drink safe mineral water and eat well-cooked food from reliable and recommended restaurants and hotels.
• Do shopping from genuine shops only. Bargaining is a popular practice in India and necessary too.
• Do not visit places that encourage orthodoxy, social injustice, and inhuman practices.
• Don’t eat anything offered by fellow travellers on the train or bus. It might be intoxicated.
• Always travel reserved class in trains and chain and lock your luggage under your berth in a train.
• Use licensed guides for sightseeing and avoid touts.

FAQs 

Which is the best time to travel to India? 

The best time to visit India is from October to March (winter) if you are visiting Rajasthan, South India, and Kerala. If you are visiting the Himalayan regions, the best time to visit India is from April till July (summers) as the weather is clear and there is no risk of snowfall and heavy rains.

Do I need a visa for India from the UK? 

Yes, you need a visa to visit India. You can get it on the official website of Indian Immigration.

How many hours does it take to travel from the UK to India? 

If you are travelling with a direct flight it will take from 8h to 9h. A flight with a decent layover (2h to 3h) it could take around 12h.

How easy is it to travel across India?

It’s easy to travel across India as there is a wide network of railways, buses, and domestic flights. If you are traveling in a particular region and have less time, the best option is to rent a car with a driver for your travel to India.

How expensive is a holiday in India?

The cost of your tour package to India will depend on the category of hotels you select. A 7 days tour program with 3* hotels with all meals, entrances, and vehicle expenses could cost you around 1490 £ / person on a double sharing basis. That means for a couple without international flights a tour could cost around 2990 £. For more accurate quotes, get in touch with our travel designers.

How to find cheap flights from the UK to India?

Finding affordable flights from the UK to India requires a combination of savvy strategies and careful planning. Here is our detailed article on how to find cheap flights to India from the UK

How to plan a holiday in India from the UK? 

Planning a trip to India could be a difficult task. There are several ways to organize your tour plan to India. Either you can contact a tour operator specializing in India Tour Packages directly in the UK. You can contact a local travel agency in India or plan it yourself by booking hotels on websites like booking.com and booking a car rental service.

What are the most famous Indian vacations itineraries? 

Some of the famous India Travel itineraries are:

– Golden Triangle Tour of India 

Delhi / Agra / Jaipur

– Rajasthan 12 days Tour package 

Delhi / Udaipur / Jodhpur / Pushkar / Jaipur/ Ranthambore / Agra

– Kerala Tour Package 

Cochin / Munnar / Thekkady / Alleppey / Marari Beach

– Beach Holidays to Goa

– Tiger Safari Tour 

To spot Bengal Tigers the most famous national parks are Ranthambore National Park / Kanha National Park / Bandhavgarh National Park

Is it necessary to hire a travel guide while visiting India?

It’s not necessary to hire a travel guide if you are visiting alone. This option could be a bit expensive. But if you are traveling in a family or group, we suggest you book a tour guide for a hassle-free experience.

Is it safe to visit India?

Yes, India is a safe country to travel. For safe travel to India, one must follow certain basic rules of the country and its culture.

What are the top places not to miss in India? 

The best places not to miss in India are Delhi, Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa, and wildlife sanctuaries like Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Ranthambore.