Climate: The climate in India is dependent mainly on two criteria firstly the location one is visiting and secondly the time of the year. In addition to the four seasons, there are two monsoon phases as well. Temperatures generally tend to be cooler between the months of September to March in the northern part of the country in comparison to the south which is the coolest in between November to January. The month of June experiences south-west monsoon and brings heavy rains to the western coast: similarly the months between October and December experience north-east monsoon in the Bay of Bengal bringing rain to the east coast.
The best time to visit the country is between the months of November and March. March to June is extremely dry and hot with temperatures varying form 85ÚF-110Ú F/30ÚC-44ÚC. June to October experience heavy rains with 20-80in/50-200cm of rainfall. The best months to visit mountain areas are March, April, October and November. It is advisable to stick to hill stations during spring and summer. One should also avoid going to Kashmir during winter (30ÚF-45ÚF/0ÚC-7ÚC).
Food and Drink: Sticking to bottled mineral water is recommended: while making sure the seal is intact. It is advisable to purchase them from reputed shops and not street vendors as they tend to refill discarded bottles with normal water. Food from roadside vendors should also be avoided. Cut fruits, vegetables and milk products should be only be consumed if they are from established and good quality restaurants.
Train Journeys: Train journeys in India could be an overwhelming experience. At the station one would face the masses of the Indian populace which do reflect the entire social status from the very poor to the very rich. It is always recommended to carry face tissues, toilet paper and liquid or paper soap as you may not find these in the trains. Eat only cooked food and feel free to purchase water from the on-board train staff. It is also recommended not to accept food or drinks offered by fellow passengers and also not to show high value equipment to your fellow passengers. [http://www.enchanting-india.com/EI-popup-currency.htm]Currency and Tipping: The Indian Rupee (Rs) is the official currency in India and can be obtained at any money changer, bank, hotel cashier's desk or ATM machine. The approximate prevailing exchange rate is (US1= Rs 43; €1= Rs 66; £1= Rs 84; AU $1= Rs 41- Based on exchange rates on 5th June 2008).
In India a tip is the money paid to get things done. Please remember that tipping is optional and one is not obligated to tip any one at any point of time. Carrying small change is advisable as you would require it often for people who help you with little things.
Clothes and Shoes: Some of the religious places in India demand that you do not carry any leather goods like belt, wallet and leather bags inside the temples. In some places like the Sikh temples it is mandatory for both men and women to cover their heads. In places such as mosques and mausoleums it is a must for women to wear clothes below knee length. When you visit religious places you would need to take off your shoes, you are free to wear your socks but sometimes the floor is wet so it is recommended to take them off as well.
Electricity: The converters in India are similar to those in Europe with round pins (not UK). The electrical supply is 220/240V, 50Hz. If you are traveling from US it is recommended to carry a voltage converter and plug adapter. It is best to get a universal adapter.
Medical Preparation: Before starting off on the journey one should consult their physician about the use of anti-malarial drugs. It is also recommended to carry mosquito repellents. It is also a good idea to carry a first aid kit with adhesive bandages, thermometer, water-purification tablets, antibiotics and antiseptic creams.
Sun and Heat Protection: It is recommended to use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. It also advisable to wear hats to protect the skin from direct sun rays. One should also be careful while choosing the material of clothing - cottons and linen is ideal for Indian summers.
Stray Animals: One should avoid contact with stray animals. Please do not feed them. If an animal bites or scratches you, clean the area with soapy water and seek medical assistance immediately.
Beggars on Streets: Avoid contact with beggars. Do not look them in the eye. If at all you feel like helping them, the best way is to give donations to charities working for their welfare.
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