India tours & holidays

All foreign travellers need a valid visa to enter India. There are two types of visas: an e-visa and a paper visa. Which one you will need depends on the requirements of your stay and your entry and exit ports.  

The e-tourist visa allows entry for 30 days, 1 or 5 years. For more information, please visit the government of India’s website or the Essential Trip Information.  

To enter India, you may need:  

• A valid visa  

• A machine-readable passport  

• At least two blank pages in your passport  

• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity  

• Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (if you are travelling from affected areas) 

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India trip.

If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your trip begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travellers. You’ll need a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable, given the competition

Yes, you’ll be able to use your mobile phone while on a trip to India, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

Yes, you’ll be able to use your mobile phone while on a trip to India, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitiser, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

India can be overwhelming sometimes, but most travellers enjoy their time there without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveller should keep in mind when travelling through India to minimise their chances of running into any trouble.