The climate of India can broadly be classified as a tropical monsoon one. But, in spite of much of the northern part of India lying beyond the tropical zone, the entire country has a tropical climate marked by relatively high temperatures and dry winters. There are four seasons:

• Winter (December-February)
• Summer (March-June)
• South-West Monsoon season (June-September)
• Post Monsoon season (October-November)

India's climate is affected by two seasonal winds - the northeast monsoon and the southwest monsoon. The north-east monsoon, commonly known as winter monsoon blows from land to sea, whereas south-west monsoon, known as summer monsoon blows from sea to land after crossing the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal. The south-west monsoon brings most of the rainfall during a year in the country.

All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa from an Indian Mission/Post or eVisa from Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Visa to India can be obtained either by online portal for regular / paper visa / post by Indian Mission & eVisa (valid for 171 Countries).

Application Process for Visa - Regular / Paper Visa / Post by Indian Mission

1. Apply Online - Fill and Submit Visa Application Form Securely.
2. Submit Documents, Submit your application with required documents at Indian Visa Application Center or at Indian Mission.
3. Receive Passport, visa collect your passport / visa from Indian Mission / Visa Application Center or by post.

Applicants may fill on the online application form by going to the tab placed below.
https://www.indianvisaonline.gov.in

Once the form is filled and submitted, applicant must print the completed application form and sign and submit the physical copy along with the supporting documents and the Passport to the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly at the Indian Mission on the scheduled appointed date.

The status of Visa Application can be seen on the link given below https://www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/StatusEnquiry

eVisa

• Apply online - Upload Photo and Passport Page
• Pay eVisa fee online Using Credit / Debit card / Payment Wallet
• Receive ETA Online, Electronic Travel Authorization/ETA Will be sent to your e-mail
• Fly To India. Print ETA and present at Immigration Check Post where eVisa will be stamped on passport.

For applying eVisa, you can apply through this link. https://www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration

Those travelling to India are also advised to go through instructions available on the website of Bureau of Immigration at https://www.boi.gov.in

While entering India, Covid related measures shall be applicable as per guidelines issued by Govt. of India from time to time.

For the latest information about getting a visa for India, visit the official website at https://www.indianvisaonline.gov.in

Information for visitors arriving at Indian airports from abroad the majority of foreign tourists arrive in India by air. The majority of tourists traveling to India land in New Delhi / Mumbai / Chennai / Bangalore.

English is spoken by almost all government officials present at Indian airports. If you speak the English language, then you should have no communication problems at the airport. All passengers arriving from abroad are required to fill in an 'Arrival Card' for immigration/customs clearance. When departing from India a 'Departure Card' has to be filled.

Before you leave the immigration counter, when the immigration officer returns your passport to you after examining it. Make sure that the immigration officer has stamped your passport with an arrival stamp. To avoid problems later when you are leaving India, ensure that your passports are duly stamped before leaving the immigration counter. The Indian Customs Department may sometimes x-ray luggage of arriving passengers. If this happens to you, do not be alarmed.
Luggage Carts are available at the airport free of charge. On some occasions there are no carts available due to the volume of passengers in the terminal. However if you wait for a short time, Carts are periodically brought in from outside. Carts are provided free by the Airport Authority of India and there is no need to pay someone for getting you a cart. In fact some workers are actually hired by the authorities to help passengers who may need assistance removing their luggage from conveyor belts and loading their luggage on the carts.

Currency Exchange counters are available at the airports. If you wish to exchange currency at the airport. Do not go past customs, as currency exchange counters of a few banks are located inside the terminal and once you go past customs, you cannot go back to the currency exchange counters. When exchanging foreign currency for Indian Rupees keep the exchange receipt as this will help you to reconvert unspent Indian Rupees back to your original currency when you leave India. Always get a receipt when converting foreign currency.

Indian summers are too hot, thus overseas travellers who plan their visit from March to June, they can carry light cottons. Wear clothes that are not very revealing. Winters fall in the months of December to February in India are quite cold, especially in the Northern India. Visitors who wish to come during this period are advised to carry sufficient warm clothing. Monsoons in India fall from June to September, and these months make the weather extremely humid. Some religious places in India have dress codes, like covering your head, being barefoot, etc. Tourists are advised to comply with them, so as not to seem offensive towards the religious sentiments of the concerned community.

Indian currency is known as Rupee abbreviated as INR. The Indian money is available in denominations of coins ₹1 / 2 /5 /10 & 20 and also currency Notes are available as Rs. 5 / 10 / 20 / 50 / 100 & Rs. 500. One rupee consists of a hundred Paise which are in denominations of Coins are available for Rs.1 / 2 /5 /10 & 20.

Changing money in India can be a very cumbersome process especially in small towns, thus the visitors are advised to change a substantial amount at one time. All the banks do not accept Travellers’ Cheques. Make sure to change the money at accredited bureaus only; changing at any other place is illegal and also runs the risk of being counterfeit. Travellers from all countries must disclose currency before entering India if the sum is $5,000 US or more in coins and notes or a value of $10,000 or more in coins, notes, and traveller’s cheques, provided he/she has filled a declaration form on arrival. This will help in exchanging your currency at the time of arrival as well as the taking back your unspent currency at the time of leaving. Money can be easily changed at the airport, some hotels and several branches of International foreign exchange providers.

Before embarking on your India vacation, the foreigners must get familiar with different diseases that are common in Indian climatic conditions. Here is a comprehensive list of the most vaccinations for those visiting India.

• Hepatitis A: This vaccination is recommended for all travellers to India.
• Hepatitis B: Travellers who may have intimate contact with local residents should take this vaccination, especially if their period of stay is more than 6 months.
• Typhoid: All travellers are recommended to take Typhoid vaccination.
• Yellow Fever: Vaccination for this is required only for travellers arriving from or passing through any yellow-fever-infected area like Africa.
• Japanese Encephalitis: This vaccine is recommended for travellers staying for more than 1 month and travelling to rural areas or travellers engaging in extensive unprotected outdoor activities in rural areas, especially after dusk.
• Rabies: Any traveller who may have direct contact with animals should take this vaccination. There are some health risks in India like Cholera, Dengue Fever, Dysentery, Malaria and Meningitis. Travellers are advised to take precautionary measures against the same.

Travel insurance is necessary for travelling to India and it also acts as an additional security in the case of unanticipated contingences like cancellation or interruption of travel plans, lost or damaged luggage, travel delays, accident, etc.

Foreigners, who are not covered by travel insurance, shall be compounded by a financial burden in case of any personal tragedy. Though each and every mishap is not covered by travel insurance, still, it covers most of the unfortunate circumstances. Check the small print of your insurance policy carefully to see if there is any exclusion. If anything goes wrong, you need to file a claim. For the purpose, keep your boarding passes, ticket copies and receipts for expenses paid during your trip as a proof.

There are some Indian traffic rules you need to follow while in India. Given below is a list of some guidelines for ensuring traffic safety in India.

Indian government recognizes the International Driver's License (IDL) though it is safer to rent a car with a professional driver. If you are planning to stay in India for a long time and have a valid driver's license (not necessarily an IDL) issued by any competent authority in your country, then getting a driver license in India is no big problem. If your International Driver's License (IDL) has expired, you can easily get a local driving license in India by submitting your expired license, along with a letter of introduction from your country's Embassy. Traffic in India moves on the left side. So, be extra cautious while crossing the road, especially if your country follows right side driving.

The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act bans all forms of wildlife trade. Violations of the provisions of the Act are punishable with heavy fines and imprisonment. Foreigners are therefore, advised not to buy any wild animals or their products and derivatives like articles of ivory, fur and skin.

Photography Tourists should seek permission from the authorities concerned before taking photographs of places of military importance, railway stations, bridges, airports, military installations, metro trains, tribal areas and sensitive border regions. It is prohibited to take photographs in some of the temples, historical monuments, forts, palaces, tombs and monasteries. Visitors are required to take special permits from the Archaeological Survey of India for photographing monuments with tripods and artificial lights. Camera fee is charged extra in some historical monuments.

Under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, all areas falling between the ‘Inner line’, as defined in the said order, and the International Border of the State have been declared as Protected Area. Protected Areas are located in the following States:-

1. Whole of Arunachal Pradesh
2. Parts of Himachal Pradesh
3. Parts of Jammu & Kashmir
4. Whole of Manipur
5. Whole of Mizoram
6. Whole of Nagaland
7. Parts of Rajasthan
8. Whole of Sikkim (partly in Protected Area and partly in Restricted Area)
9. Parts of Uttarakhand.

All foreigners visiting these States will register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the State/District they visit within 24 hours of their arrival.
One can visit in person or inquire on phone the details of getting special permits:

Foreigners' Division
Ministry of Home Affairs
North Block,
Central Secretariat, New Delhi - 110 001
Phone: 011 - 23092392 / 23092011 / 23092161

Electricity Voltage in India is 220 volts AC, 50 cycles. Some upscale hotels in India do have provisions for 110 volt shavers, electric tooth brushes etc. However, it is still a good idea to take along a voltage converter if you have small electrical gadgets that you intend to use during your trip to India. If possible buy an electric plug adapter as the electric plugs in India are rounded. Such adapters are available for about one dollar in most department stores that sell electronic goods.

If you take a prescription regularly then always take your medication with you that will last the duration of your trip to India.

Nothing can ruin a holiday faster than a medical problem. While most medical prescription drugs are available in India. They may be named differently. It is always better to take regularly used medicines with you.

Take a small amount of non-prescription medication with you, in case you fall into temptation and eat something that disagrees with your stomach. Unless you really get careless the chances are that you should be fine.

Make sure you avoid tap water and if bottled water is not available stick to soft drinks. Many foreign tourists while drinking use only bottled water. Do not add ice to your drinks. Ice is usually not made from bottled water. Be selective also as to where you buy your bottled water as people have been known to refill bottles and sell them to unsuspecting travellers. Check the seal on the water bottle and buy water from reputable stores.

1. Research and Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with India's culture, climate, and popular destinations. Plan your itinerary well in advance to make the most of your trip.
2. Obtain Necessary Visas: Apply for the appropriate visa type and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
3. Pack Wisely: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the weather. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable footwear, and insect repellent.
4. Respect Local Customs: India is culturally diverse, so be respectful of local customs, traditions, and dress codes, especially when visiting religious places.
5. Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Use bottled or boiled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
6. Eat Wisely: Enjoy the delicious Indian cuisine but be cautious with street food. Choose restaurants with good hygiene practices to avoid foodborne illnesses.
7. Negotiate Prices: Bargaining is common in markets, so negotiate prices for souvenirs and services to get the best deal.
8. Stay Safe: Be vigilant in crowded places and watch out for pickpockets. Use reputable transportation services and avoid traveling alone at night.
9. Use Local Transport: Experience India's culture up close by using local transport like metros, trains and buses.
10. Respect Wildlife: If visiting wildlife sanctuaries, maintain a safe distance from animals and follow park rules for a responsible and enjoyable experience.
11. Stay Connected: Get a local SIM card or international roaming plan to stay connected with family and access maps and travel apps.
12. Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in cities, have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and remote areas.
13. Mind the Monsoon: Be prepared for heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
14. Respect Photography Rules: Always seek permission before taking photos of people or religious sites, as some may be sensitive to photography.
15. Embrace the Chaos: India can be bustling and chaotic, but embrace the vibrant atmosphere, and you'll be rewarded with a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Do not accept any type of food from strangers while traveling by trains or bus regardless of how well dressed the person offering you the food may be.

When buying Pepsi or Coca Cola, if possible purchase the drinks in a can rather than a bottle. Refilling of old bottles by some small time crooks is common. Purchase food and drinks from proper restaurants

When traveling on trains and busses try not to use your laptop. It is always prudent to avoid displaying valuable items in public.

1. India never invaded any country in her last 100000 years of history.
2. When many cultures were only nomadic forest dwellers over 5000 years ago, Indians established Harappan culture in Sindhu Valley (Indus Valley Civilization)
3. The name 'India' is derived from the River Indus, the valleys around which were the home of the early settlers. The Aryan worshippers referred to the river Indus as the Sindhu.
4. Chess was invented in India.
5. The 'Place Value System' and the 'Decimal System' were developed in India in 100 B.C.
6. The World's First Granite Temple is the Brihadeswara Temple at Tanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The Shikhara of the temple is made from a single 80-tonne piece of granite. This magnificent temple was built in just five years, (between 1004 AD and 1009 AD) during the reign of Rajaraja Chola.
7. India is the largest democracy in the world, the 7th largest Country in the world, and one of the most ancient civilizations
8. The game of Snakes & Ladders was created by the 13th century by poet saint Gyandev. It was originally called 'Mokshapat'. The ladders in the game represented virtues and the snakes indicated vices. The game was played with cowrie shells and dices. In time, the game underwent several modifications, but its meaning remained the same, i.e. good deeds take people to heaven and evil to a cycle of re-births.
9. The world's highest cricket ground is in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. Built in 1893 after levelling a hilltop, this cricket pitch is 2444 meters above sea level.
10. India has the largest number of Post Offices in the world.
11. The largest employer in India is the Indian Railways, employing over a million people.
12. The world's first university was established in Takshila in 700 BC. More than 10,500 students from all over the world studied more than 60 subjects. The University of Nalanda built in the 4th century was one of the greatest achievements of ancient India in the field of education.
13. Ayurveda is the earliest school of medicine known to mankind. The Father of Medicine, Charaka, consolidated Ayurveda 2500 years ago.
14. India was one of the richest countries till the time of British rule in the early 17th Century. Christopher Columbus, attracted by India's wealth, had come looking for a sea route to India when he discovered America by mistake.
15. The Art of Navigation & Navigating was born in the river Sindh over 6000 years ago. The very word Navigation is derived from the Sanskrit word 'NAVGATIH'. The word navy is also derived from the Sanskrit word 'Nou'.
16. Bhaskaracharya rightly calculated the time taken by the earth to orbit the Sun hundreds of years before the astronomer Smart. According to his calculation, the time taken by the Earth to orbit the Sun was 365.258756484 days.
17. Algebra, Trigonometry and Calculus also originated in India. Quadratic Equations were used by Sridharacharya in the 11th century. The largest numbers the Greeks and the Romans used were 106 whereas Hindus used numbers as big as 10*53 (i.e. 10 to the power of 53) with specific names as early as 5000 B.C. during the Vedic period. Even today, the largest used number is Terra: 10*12(10 to the power of 12).
18. The 182 meters tall Statue of Unity located in Gujarat is presently the tallest statue in the world.
19. India is home to the second-largest pool of Engineers and Scientists.
20. Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhatta was the first person to invent a symbol for zero.
21. The practise of Yoga originated thousands of years ago in India.
22. Around 70% of the world's spices come from India and it is the world's largest producer, consumer and exporter of spices.
23. The world's highest motorable road is located in Ladakh and it is built at a height of 19,300 feet.
24. India is home to 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.