FAQs

Travel preparation

  • Yes, you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and you will receive a 30 day visa on arrival in India. The application process is online and requires a digital passport photo. However you can only apply for this ETA within a month of your arrival date in India as it is only vaild for 30days. It is usually issued very quickly – within hours.  Once approved, print the visa PDF with your photo and barcode. Ensure you carry a physical copy alongside your flight tickets, as these are required at immigration. The e-Visa expires one month after arrival.

    ⚠ Important: If your occupation is listed as "Writer" or "Journalist" on your visa application, your application may be denied. India requires journalists to apply for a Journalist Visa, which can take 1–2 weeks to process. To avoid delays, either do not list your occupation as Writer/Journalist or apply for the correct visa well in advance.

  • No mandatory vaccinations are required, but we recommend consulting a travel health specialist.

  • Yes, we require all participants to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings.

  • Yes, India uses Type D and M plugs (230V, 50Hz). A universal power adapter is recommended.

Arrival & Logistics

  • For our Delhi-Chandigarh-Himalayas itinerary, Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) is the recommended entry point.

  • Use the e-Visa queue at immigration and ensure you have printed copies of your visa and flight details. When filling out your landing card, use your first hotel’s address as your local residence.

  • The Indian Rupee is a closed currency and you cannot therefore buy any before you arrive in India. ATMs are available at the airport and throughout India. A recommended amount to withdraw on arrival is ₹10,000 (approximately £100 / $120), depending on your personal spending habits.

Accommodation & Amenities

  • We select 5 star hotels and ocassionally well-appointed guesthouses that offer a balance of comfort, cultural immersion, and architectural interest. Details will be provided in your itinerary. The Amaya resort for the final three nights is one of the highlights of this trip.

  • Yes, all hotels provide Wi-Fi. Some transport options may offer mobile Wi-Fi – check with your guide.

  • Suitcases are perfectly fine as transportation is arranged throughout. However, you may need to carry your luggage up stairs in train stations. You will need to be able to carry or pull your luggage in a crowded space with uneven floors so it’s best to pack lightly.

  • Some hotels offer gyms. If this is important to you, let us know in advance, and we will advise accordingly.

Packing & Dress Code

  • Cities (Delhi & Chandigarh): Lightweight, breathable clothing.

    Himalayas: Warm layers for cool evenings and mornings.

    Temples & religious sites: Modest attire; women should carry a scarf or shawl.

    Walking: Comfortable shoes that are easy to remove when required.

  • Yes, some accommodations have pools. Towels are provided in all the hotels we visit.

Food & Health

  • Meals will showcase regional specialities, from Delhi’s street-food to Himachali dishes in the mountains. We prioritise high-quality, authentic dining experiences.

  • Absolutely. India is highly vegetarian-friendly, and vegan options are widely available.

  • No. Only drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water. This includes brushing your teeth. We recommend carrying a reusable bottle. The hotels provide free filtered water in glass bottles in your room.

  • It can be beneficial to start taking probiotics before your trip and continue during your travels to help your digestion adjust.

  • Beer and wine are generally available, though selection may be limited in certain regions.

Money & Expenses

  • The Indian Rupee (INR). Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in hotels and higher-end restaurants.

  • Expect to spend approximately ₹2,000–₹3,000 per day on personal items, souvenirs, and optional activities.

  • Tipping is a standard part of life in India and is expected.

    Guidelines:

    • Local guides: ₹500–₹1,000 per day

    • Drivers: ₹300–₹500 per day

    • Hotel staff: ₹100–₹300 per service

Safety & Security

  • Yes, but as with any destination, awareness is key. We ensure safe transport, well-located accommodations, and expert guidance throughout.

  • If you become unwell, the tour will continue as planned, and you will need to arrange for a place to recover. We will assist you in finding appropriate medical care and comfortable accommodation, but no refunds will be provided for missed portions of the trip. Your travel insurance should cover any medical expenses, and you can rejoin the tour when you feel well enough to continue.

  • We have emergency protocols in place. Local hospitals and clinics are identified for each location, and your travel insurance should cover any necessary care.

  • Most of our Himalayan destinations are at moderate altitudes. If you have concerns, consult a doctor before travelling.

Connectivity & Communication

  • Check with your provider about international roaming. Local SIM cards are available if needed.

  • Yes, at all hotels. Some transport may also have mobile Wi-Fi.

Tour Experience

  • Participants should be comfortable with extended walking and occasional uneven terrain, especially in the Himalayas.

    You will need to be on your feet for much of the day and that includes walking up and down stairs.  Not all of the buildings or pavements are in perfect condition so please always keep your eyes peeled for trip hazards as you walk.

  • Yes, we can provide recommendations or arrange extensions tailored to your interests.

  • We will assist with alternative travel arrangements if required, but no refunds will be issued for early departures.

Sustainability & Responsible Travel

  • We prioritise small group travel, support local businesses, and engage guides with deep cultural knowledge.

  • Carry reusable water bottles and bags.

    Respect cultural sites by following local guidelines.

    Choose ethical souvenirs, avoiding items made from endangered materials.

Photography & Cultural Sensitivities

  • While photography is welcomed at most sites, some religious, political and military locations have restrictions. If we are able to access the Assembly Building in Chandigarh, photography is strictly forbidden for security reasons and you will be asked to leave all your cameras and phones at the reception desk inside the building entrance. Always ask before photographing people.

  • Drone use is heavily restricted in India it is not possible to bring one with you into the country without a special permit

Booking & Payments

  • A deposit is required at the time of booking, with full payment due a full ten weeks before departure. If you book within the ten week period, full payment is required with the booking.

  • If you cancel more than ten weeks before the start of the trip, you will lose your deposit.

    If you cancel between ten weeks and four weeks before the start of the trip, on the assumption that you settled the balance of the trip, you will be refunded 50% of the total trip cost.

    If you cancel less than 4 weeks before the start of the trip, there is no refund.

Contact & Assistance

  • You will receive a detailed emergency contact list, including your tour leader’s phone number and local support contacts.

  • Our team is available via email and phone for any pre-departure enquiries.

Bespoke Tours

  • Then you don’t have to. Contact me with your requirements, whether it is you, or you and a partner, or you and a group of friends, I can plan your private tour.