Over the years both in traveling India and time spent on travel forums about India, you see there are certain questions that crop up all the time. Similar question but on a wide range of topics from taxis to health. This section is an attempt to answer these question in a clear, one stop site.
It's not exhaustive but with luck it will answer most queries newbies might have and a few for the more experienced amongst you. Please let us know if there's something you think we've missed!!
ARRIVAL
Are there money change facilities upon arrival in Indian airports?
Yes all the international airports have change facilities. These are open 24/7
Can I arrange my hotel from the airport
Yes there are booking offices which will arrange hotels for you. This is not always the cheapest option of course but it can be done
Are there buses or taxis into town?
Yes all the international airports have both bus and taxi options, to get you from the airport to your chosen destination.
Do I require a visa on Arrival?
Yes in ALL cases you need a visa to enter India. There is, as of now no visa on arrival scheme. There's a plan in the pipeline but right now everyone needs a visa!!
Is the prepaid Taxi the best option ?
Yes and no, there are a host of prepaid taxi operators in the arrival terminus, not all of them offer the best rates into town, Look for the Taxi Union Office or Police Taxi Office these offer the best deals!
A hotel pick up is another good option. Not the cheapest but a hassle free way to arrive. Ask your chosen hotel to arrange this!!
Where do I collect my baggage?
Like anywhere else in the world. Find the carousel in baggage reclaim, displaying your flight number.
One oddity here in India, is your bags are not left to go around and around. They employ people to take them off. So if you can't see you luggage chances are it's already been taken off the carousel and stacked somewhere in the immediate vicinity
Can I book train tickets in the Airport?
As far as I know the booking of trains is a facility ONLY available at Delhi International Airport.
It’s open from 0800 to 2000 all days except on Sunday when it works 0800 till 1200.
Good place to book if you have time as it's usually not very busy!
What are the duty free allowances on ciggies and alcohol?
- Alcoholic liquors or Wines upto 2 litres
- 200 Cigarettes or 50 Cigars or 250 gms. Tobacco.
What are the regulations on importing goods?
A complicated subject far better explained here
What are the immigration formalities
You are required as a foreign visitor to fill in a small questionnaire, This is handed out on your Indian bound flight. Fill it in and produce it when asked by the guy at immigration!
Keep the tear off strip, they take this from you as you leave the country!
