Accomodation is plenty.From resplendent 5 star hotels that pass off as
stopovers.The right season to visit India is between October - March and May -
June.It is advised to book early to avoid the rush.When planning your tour,do ask your agent to include an Indian fair or
festival in your itinerary.The colour and splendour can be quite an
unforgettable experience.Indians are a hospitable lot.If you are lost,someone
will go out of his/her way to guide you to your destination.If you have a weak stomach,stick to bottled mineral water,tea,coffee,beer
for liquid intakes.Avoid eating spicy Indian food as stomach linings need time
to acclimatise.Trust fresh fruits whose fresh skin you can peel off or remove.Please rememebr to remove your footwear when visiting a place of
worship.Some Jain and hindu temples do not permit leather bags.If you wish to
help beggars,give alms to a charitable organisation.If you are looking to visit museums in India,most of them are closed on
mondays and site museums (near the site of archaeological monuments) are closed
on fridays.
Credit Cards:American Express,ICICI,Master & Visa are accepted widely throughout the country.There might be a problem of acceptance in certain rural areas.Tips are not neccesary when the hotels have the component of service tax.When this is not done the worldwide rule of approximatley 10% applies.If you are in a big group and the food bill is high,about 5% will do.The porter who takes your baggage is usually tipped around Rs.20 depending on the quantity.Taxi drivers are not tipped in India.Try not to crowd too many palces in your itinerary.Each place,city has its own charm, own secrets and own flavours.Take some time to discover it in a leisurely manner.Permits are required to visit restricted areas or troubled spots.For details check with nearest Government of India tourist office.
Post & Communications: Government owned Department Of Posts offer complete domestic and international mailing and parcel facilities at reasonable tariffs.It is fairly efficient and has countrywide network.EMS speedpost, a subsidiary offers courier services. Private couriers like DHL,Blue Dart,Skypak etc. also offer their services.
Telephones:The international code for India is 0091.STD codes for towns are printed after the town name in the main text.International Direct Dailling is now widely avaliable in privately run call boxes.
Fax:Fax rates at the telegraph offices vary from Rs.60 to Rs.110 depending on the country you are faxing to.
