Do I need a visa to travel to India?
The need for a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose or length of your visit. If you are a US citizen, check the U.S. Department of State website’s visa section here. A brief overview:
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- Bangladesh: Travelers usually require a visa to enter. The type of visa and specific requirements depend on the purpose of the visit.
- Bhutan: Tourism is regulated, and travelers generally need to obtain a visa. Tourist visas are usually processed through licensed Bhutanese tour operators.
- India: Travelers usually need a visa. The type of visa depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, or employment. India also offers e-visas for certain nationalities.
- Nepal: Most travelers need a visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. Visa requirements vary based on the traveler’s nationality.
- Sri Lanka: Travelers generally need a visa. Sri Lanka offers electronic travel authorization (ETA) for many nationalities, allowing them to obtain a visa online before arrival.
Is it customary to tip in India?
In Nepal, tipping is not traditionally ingrained in Nepalese culture, but it is appreciated, especially in the tourism industry. In restaurants, a service charge may be included, but an additional tip is often given. In Bhutan tipping is not a traditional practice, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas and upscale establishments.
In Bangladesh tipping is not always expected but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for certain services. In upscale establishments, a service charge may be included.
Tipping is customary in India. In restaurants, it is common to leave a tip of around 10% to 15% of the bill. Tipping is also common for services such as taxis, hotel staff, and tour guides. In Sri Lanka, it is also expected for most services (hotel staff, tour guides, drivers). In restaurants, a service charge may be included, and it is common to leave an additional tip.
What is the legal drinking age in India?
The legal drinking age varies. In India varies from state to state. It is typically 18 or 21 years old, depending on the specific state laws. The legal drinking age in Bhutan is 18 years old. However, the sale of tobacco products is banned in the country. The drinking age in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka is 21 years old.
Do I need to rent a car to get around India?
Renting a car is an option, especially for more remote areas, but it’s not always necessary for travel within cities or popular tourist destinations. In India, the availability of transportation options is extensive. Cities have well-developed public transport systems, and there are various options for getting around, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and ride-sharing services. Similarly, in Nepal and Sri Lanka, public transportation is available in cities and major tourist areas. In major cities in Bangladesh like Dhaka and Chittagong, there are alternatives to renting a car, such as taxis, rickshaws, and public transportation.
Travel in Bhutan is often organized through licensed tour operators, and transportation is arranged as part of the tour package. Independent car rental may not be common due to the country’s tourism regulations.
What side of the road do people drive on in India?
People drive on the left side of the road. This means that the driver’s seat is on the right side of the vehicle, and vehicles move in the left-hand lane on multi-lane roads.
What is the legal age to rent a car in India?
The legal age to rent a car varies by country. In general, it is typically around 21 years old, but specific age requirements can vary by rental agency and country, so it’s important to check with the rental company directly for their specific policies. In Bhutan, car rental is often arranged as part of organized tours, and specific age requirements may be set by the tour operator.
Are there specific travel restrictions or regulations I should be aware of for India?
Travel regulations can change, especially during public health emergencies or political conflicts. Check the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and health and safety guidelines for your destination on the U.S. Department of State website’s travel advisories section here.
If you plan to engage in trekking activities in Nepal, be aware of the necessary permits, such as the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) or Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SNP) depending on the trekking area.
Bhutan has a unique tourism policy that involves a daily fee per person, and travel must be arranged through licensed Bhutanese tour operators. Independent travel is not widely permitted.
What is the general etiquette when greeting someone in India?
The greeting customs are different depending on where you are. It’s always great practice to observe local customs and follow the lead of the person you are greeting. It’s appreciated when visitors make an effort to show respect for local traditions and greetings.
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- Bangladesh: Greetings are often accompanied by a handshake or a slight bow. It is common to use titles and last names as a form of address, especially in formal settings.
- Bhutan: A traditional form of greeting is to place one’s hands together in a prayer-like gesture and say “Kuzuzangpo la” (meaning “Hello” or “Greetings”). A slight bow may accompany this gesture.
- India: Greetings vary based on cultural and regional diversity. Common forms include saying “Namaste” with a slight bow, shaking hands, or giving a slight nod. Touching the feet of elders is a sign of respect in some cultures.
- Nepal: The common greeting is “Namaste,” accompanied by pressing the palms together in a prayer-like gesture and saying the word. In more informal settings, a simple nod or “hi” may also be used.
- Sri Lanka: Greetings often involve saying “Ayubowan” (may you have a long life) with palms pressed together in a similar gesture to the Indian “Namaste.” A slight bow may be added in more formal situations.
