We asked Somak Holidays what were the most frequently asked questions about holidays in India. Here’s what they told us
Are the hotels going to be clean? India has some of the finest hotels anywhere and most locations have a good choice of properties offering very satisfactory standards.
What health precautions do I need to take beforehand? Hepatitis A, typhoid and polio vaccinations are recommended as are malaria tablets depending on where you go. It is advisable to avoid drinking tap water or eating any food that cannot be peeled.
What kind of food will I get? India’s food is justifiably famous and many dishes will be familiar to visitors. In large towns standards are usually high and the choice is vast and includes quite a few western dishes. Seafood is especially good in coastal areas. Vegetarians will really be in their element, especially in the southern regions. Although much of the food sold by street vendors may look attractive, visitors are advised to avoid it at all costs.
Is public transport safe and reliable? Standards vary greatly. Trains such as the Rajdhani Express from Delhi to Bombay offer basic facilities and a genuine Indian experience. Certain routes, like the Palace on Wheels offer unrivalled luxury.
Will day to day costs be high? Generally people find it very difficult to spend all the money they take on holiday with them. The cost of food and transport is usually very low, and in many locations you can get a good meal for a few pence, but accommodation rates in major cities are surprisingly expensive.
What will the weather be like? The best time to visit India is between October and April as monsoon rains occur for much of the rest of the year and many tourist locations are closed. Sunshine is virtually guaranteed at beach resorts in Goa and Kerala during the British winter.
Will it be possible to spend time on a beach at the end of an organised tour? For most tours and tailor-made itineraries, yes there is some time to spend on the beach. But visitors must bear in mind that you are not allowed to leave India on a charter flight from Goa or Tivandrum unless you entered there too.