India Visa

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• addremoveBasic Requirements to visit India
  • Have a valid Passport and valid India Visa;
  • Be in good health;
  • Good moral character;
  • Be able to convince the immigration officer that you have your family, property, assets, etc. that would serve as an incentive to come back to your home country;
  • Be able to convince the immigration officer that you will leave the country before your India visa expires;
  • Have sufficient funds to support yourself in India and the amount depends on how long you will stay in India and whether you will be staying with family, friends or any paid accommodation.
• addremoveTravel Checklist
  • Passport;
  • Valid India Visa;
  • Confirmed return Ticket;
  • Contact details of your relative, friends or business contact in India;
  • Confirmed hotel bookings (If Any);
  • India Currency and other forms of forex
  • An unlocked smartphone, preferable with a Sim card from India;
  • Any additional documents required to prove your purpose of visit (especially if you are travelling on a business Visa).
• addremoveWhat to do when you arrive in India
  • Keep your Declaration form in hand (provided to you on the flight);
  • Keep all travel documents (passport, valid India Visa, return ticket, hotel bookings etc.) ready in case the immigration officer asks to produce any document;
  • If you are an unaccompanied minor, make sure you stay with the flight attendant who is in charge of your safety. Additionally, you must recognise the adult picking you up at the airport. If you have any doubts, you must inform the airline staff immediately.
• addremoveIndia travel guide

  Official known as the Republic of India, India is seventh largest country by area in south Asia and the biggest democracy in the world. Encircled by the Indian Ocean on the South, Arabian Sea on the south-west and Bay of Bengal on south-east, the country shares its border with countries like Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Bangladesh. Invaded by many empires and rule of different dynasties has made this country culturally and traditionally rich. Lakhs of travellers from around the world visit India and get amazed by its beauty. Colourful, lively, and the birthplace of yoga, India is a country that is sure to stimulate all senses – often at the same time.

  Think fragrant spice markets, elaborate cultural ceremonies, ornate architecture, rogue cows wandering through busy streets, forests teeming with wildlife, and experiences that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

  The landscape of India ranges from untouched nature to boisterous big city, all in the span of short distances.

  It’s known that you don’t just simply see India when you visit. Rather, you experience it deeply. To make the most of it, go with an open mind and a loose itinerary.

  Places to visit in India

  1. Agra

  Perhaps the world’s greatest symbol of love and opulence, the Taj Mahal is India’s top attraction in Agra.
  The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to keep the remains of his favorite wife, commonly known as Mumtaz Mahal, or “The Chosen One of the Palace. ” Historians speculate that it took over 20,000 workers and 1,000 elephants to build this majestic palace of marble and semi-precious stones.
  It’s said that the Taj Mahal itself changes colour throughout the day, varying from pink hues in the morning to blinding white in the evening.
  Of course, whether this is true or not is a theory you’ll have to discover yourself.

  2. The Ganges

  The Ganges River is one of the most sacred places for practicing Hindus in India and is a lifeline for the millions of people who live alongside it, relying on the river for food and water. At 2,500 kilometres long, it’s an impressive sight you can’t miss.
  All along the Ganges are Ghats, stone steps that Indians use to participate in everything from sacred baths and small offerings to large cremation ceremonies, often attracting thousands of people who come to cleanse the bodies of their deceased loved ones in the Ganges before cremation.

  3. Rishikesh

  Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is a place for travellers seeking spiritual connections and inner peace during their time in India.
  Rishikesh has a variety of yoga and meditation centres, made popular among travellers thanks to an iconic visit from the Beatles.
  Visitors can practice traditional Hatha yoga, or try their hand at new-age crystal healing.
  In the evening, head down to the banks of the Ganges and witness the ganga aarti, a Hindu fire offering.
  Almost in contrast, Rishikesh is also a white-water rafting hub and is a popular hub for Himalaya hikes if the down-time is deemed to be too much.

  4. Hampi

  Step back in time in Hampi, a surreal landscape of temples, ruins, and palm groves.
  This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts the Virupaksha Temple, an impressive feat of ancient architecture.
  Spend a few days touring the Hampi Bazaar, a vibrant village in front of the Virpaksha Temple, exploring ruins, and venturing to both sides of the river.

  5. Mumbai

  Mumbai is a city of contrasts with over 18 million residents of slum dwellers, Bollywood superstars, labourers, and billionaires alike calling this big city their home.

  Cultural and architecture enthusiasts should check out the gargantuan arc called Gateway to India, the temples at Elephanta Caves, ISKON Temple, and Siddhivinayek Temple devoted to Ganesha.

  Foodies will enjoy Mumbai’s hearty gastronomical scene with restaurants available on almost every corner.
  If you’re into movie making, hop on a fun-spirited Bollywood studio tour.

  6. Jaipur

  Known as the Pink City because of its regal red sandstone architecture, Jaipur can make you feel as if you’re in a fairytale.
  Check out Amber Fort, the glasswork and mirrors of Sheesh Mahal, the serene Birla Mandir Temple, and City Palace of Jaipur, where you might have a chance of meeting Indian royalty.
  Venture out of the temples to browse through the many markets famous for selling sequined fabrics, blue pottery, and ornate jewellery.

  7. Goa

  Goa is home to India’s beloved beaches and psychedelic scene. Expect all-night parties on Goa’s north end, transitioning into a more laid-back vibe down south.
  The best way to see this cultural hotspot is to tour it from one end to the other, stopping at any place that catches your eye.
  Check out the beaches of Palolem, Anjuna, and Madrem for three distinctly different atmospheres that Goa has to offer.

  8. Varanasi

  Varanasi is often touted as India’s spiritual capital because of the thousands of Hindu pilgrims it attracts..
  Though it’s also known as the City of Life, pilgrims perform funeral ceremonies in the River Ganges, cleansing the deceased in holy water before cremation..
  The city also has over 2,000 Hindu temples, the most famous being Kashi Vishwanath, an ornate tribute to the god Shiva..
  Day in and day out, residents celebrate life and honour the dead in this city cantered around the meaning of human existence.

  9. Ladakh

  Escape from the constant buzz of India’s big cities to Ladakh, a sparsely populated region between the Kunlun and Himalayan mountain ranges.
  Set to the backdrop of jagged mountains are prayer-flag lined Buddhist monasteries, self-sustaining homesteads, and running streams.
  Between the warm months of June and September, you can camp at Pangong Tso, a rugged lake surrounded by imposing mountains – perfect for using as a base for the area’s many hiking trails.

  10. Madurai

  In Madurai, Hindu undertones are ever-present and there’s an interesting mix of a booming tech industry taking place inside of ancient buildings.
  Covered with thousands of colourful statues, it’s possible to look at the Meenakshi Amman Temple for days without noticing even half of the small details it hosts.
  Visit during the Chithirai Festival to witness a ten days of nonstop celebration honouring the marriage between the Hindu gods, Shiva and Parvati.
  History buffs will love visiting the Gandhi Memorial Museum, a thorough and interactive tribute that features Ghandi’s influence in India’s path to independence.
  The museum also offers yoga classes, and easy access to nearby Madurai Government Museum and the Ghandian Literary Society bookshop.

  11. Sikkim

  Mention Sikkim and expect unanimous praise by all of those who’ve been to this green state.
  Sikkim is a small Himalayan utopia with strong Buddhist influence, a strong counterbalance to the country’s big city vibes.
  Sikkim is the perfect base for hiking, wildlife spotting, and will provide postcard worthy photographs with every camera click.
  Experienced climbers can summit Kangchejunga, the world’s third-highest peak.

  12. Bikaner

  Covered in orange dust, off the tourist trail, and hosting camel safaris, Bikaner is an adventurous desert town in Rajasthan.
  Junagarh Fort, a fortress for old royalty was a stronghold in the fifteenth century that was often attacked, but only captured for one day.
  Also visit the other desert architecture sites of Jain Temple Bhandasar, the Royal Cenotaphs, Lalgarh Palace, and Shri Laxminath Temple.
  For a natural site, head to Gajner Lake, where you can walk along the shoreline next to the Gajner Temple.

  13. Delhi

  With over 25 million people residing in Delhi, India’s capital is comprised of modern shopping malls and old ruins. Guidebooks often compare it to Rome, citing that it’s an eternal city with a revolving door of ruling empires throughout the ages.
  Visiting Delhi as a tourist can be overwhelming or intimidating, so be sure to set aside a day each for Old Delhi, New Delhi, and South Delhi. You can find the Red Fort and Margets of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, the India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Khan Market in New Delhi, and the Lotus Temple and Qutab Minar in South Delhi. It’s not a city you can rush through, or expect that everything will go smoothly due to ever-present traffic and millions of people vying for limited space. However, if you give the city a fair chance, you just might love it.

  14. Kochi

  Set in the lush state of Kerala, Kochi is a vibrant city with a perfect blend of beach and jungle, often further away from the tourist trail than its counterparts.
  While here, check out Fort Cochin, Mattencherry Palace, the Jewish quarter, and try your hand at scoring a catch-of-the-day with a Chinese fishing net (for a price, of course).
  While in Kochi, load up on the local fare.
  Kochi has implemented its own cuisine flare to just about every dish served in the region.
  Coconuts, tamarind, and bananas are common ingredients added to Indian meal staples that are often eaten without.

  15. Bangalore (Bengaluru)

  Known for having great weather, clean streets, well-manicured public parks, the Garden City of India is a peaceful and trendy must-see destination.
  Western brands and chain restaurants intermingle with local, locally owned businesses all along MG Road while tourist-free totes can be found in the neighbourhood of Koramangala.
  Nonetheless, it’s a great base for day trips to waterfalls, trekking paths, natural hills, and the Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp.
  Visit Bangalore during the middle or the end of your trip to India, when you’re more likely to appreciate the modern comforts it has to offer.

• addremoveIndia Facts and Figures
  Name

  Republic of India

  Location:

  South Asia

  Time:

  UTC (+) 5 1/2 hrs

  Capital:

  New Delhi

  Major cities:

  New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Calcutta, Hyderabad, Chennai

  Language:

  Hindi, English, Marathi, Punjabi, Urdu

  Area:

  3,287,263 sq kms

  Population:

  1,354,983,120

  National day:

  26 Jan

  Currency:

  Indian Rupee (INR)

  Main Airline:

  Air India AI

  International Airports:

  Indira Gandhi (Delhi) (DEL)
  Santa Cruz (Mumbai) (BOM)
  Dum Dum (Kolkata) (CCU)
  Meenambakkam (Chennai) (MAA)
  Ahmedabad (AMD)
  Amritsar (ATQ)
  Bangalore (BLR)
  Goa (GOI)
  Hyderabad (HYD)
  Trivandrum (TRV)

  Best time to visit India:

  October to March