Canada is amongst the biggest inbound tourism market in India. It has all the best reasons to visit. The sights and sites are endless. However, what makes the country even more special is that it is pocket-friendly. You can save big and travel more on your Indian expedition. But, before that take a look at some of the must-know travel tips for Canadians traveling to India:
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Passport Information
Entry requirements vary based on the type of passport. Go through the following:
- Regular Canadian Passport
A regular Canadian travel passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in India. Also, the immigration officials require at least two blank pages in the passport.
- Official Travel Passport: Canadian government officials or diplomats traveling for official purposes have different entry rules into India.
- Other Travel Document: If you travel to India on an emergency passport or a temporary one, ensure to check with the diplomatic mission closest to your destination.
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Visa Information
Every inbound Canadian traveler requires a visa to enter India. Listed-below is the information on visa types.
- Tourist Visa: Tourists are allowed to stay for 180 days at a stretch, even if they have a valid visa beyond that duration. In case your stay exceeds 180 days, you are required to register with the nearest FRRO (Foreigner’s Regional Registration Office) within 14 days.
- Employment Visa: If you are to work on projects or contracts in India, then you must obtain an employment visa.
- E-Tourist Visa: For an e-Tourist visa, your stay must not exceed 60 days. Moreover, it is mandatory to enter the country from the designated International airport or seaport. Also, apply for e-visa at least four days before traveling. And, always carry a hard copy of the e-visa email confirmation.
- Exit Visa: In an unfortunate event of a lost or stolen passport, you must obtain an exit visa. To get an exit visa, you need many documents like a police report, passport size photos, and a letter from the High Commission of Canada
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Laws and Culture
Canadians and most of the westerners visiting India for the first time may experience mixed emotions or culture shock. Therefore, it is suggested that you book tickets to Bangalore, New Delhi, or other major metropolitan cities to start your trip. It will cushion the culture shock.
- Local Law: Be sure about Indian laws. For instance, beef is strictly prohibited. Further, photographing military landmarks, dams, and airports are not permitted. Also, satellite phones are illegal in India.
Stay up to date with the local laws at your destination, and abide by them.
- Conservative: Indian society is largely conservative. Therefore, avoid public display of affection. Also, dress conservatively.
- Diversity: India is the birthplace of 4 major religions of the world. Many different religions and faiths coexist. Hence, respect traditions and religions.
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Consular Assistance
For every possible help and support by the Candian government to its citizens while traveling abroad is necessary. So, if you are to catch flights to India from Canada, make a note of the below-listed.
- Emergency Assitance: Get in touch with the Emergency Watch and Response team in Ottawa. Contact and follow the instructions by the High Commission of Canada in India.
- High Commission of Canada: Canada High Commission is located in New Delhi, and offers passport services.
- Consulate General of Canada: The consulate general of Canada is located in the Indian cities of Chandigarh, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
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Health and Vaccines
Traveling to newer environments call for extra caution towards health. You may even consider vaccines before travel. It is recommended that you visit a healthcare professional at least six weeks before flying.
- Carry a Travel Health Kit: A traveler’s health kit will come in handy. It is an even better idea if you plan to travel away from major city centers.
- Vaccination: It is important to maintain your routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), etc. Further, upon your health advisor’s recommendation vaccinate yourself according.
- Cab over Ambulance: Hail a taxi rather than waiting for the ambulance during health emergencies. Some cities have traffic and road congestion issues. You can use reliable cab service apps.
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Safety and Security
Traveling comes with its share of personal safety and security concerns. An international trip, such as Canada to India, makes it even more important to practice precaution.
Although most of the tourist places are entirely safe, one needs to be alert all the time.
- Travel Insurance: Get a travel insurance policy with health, disability, and life coverage before leaving Canada. Also, check if you can get insurance for lost luggage, flight cancellation, flight interruption, etc.
- Wear Indian Attire: As mentioned before India is a conservative society. Travelers, especially women, are advised to dress decently, preferably Indian-wear.
- Avoid Areas in Conflict: Avoid visiting regions bordering Pakistan, and a few north-east Indian destinations.
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Essential Travel Items
While the contents of your suitcase largely depend on factors like the climate of the destination, etc., there are some essential items that you should skip on your next Indian trip.
- Suitcase or Backpack?: There is no straight answer to this. It is a matter of personal preference. For instance, a backpack is preferable over the suitcase as you may across potholes and heavy traffic. However, if you have a bad back, then go for a suitcase.
- Convertors: Carry converters, adapters, and chargers as India has a different power socket configuration than Canada.
- Others: Things like sunscreen, toiletries, etc. must be handy. Even though these things are readily available in cities, certain areas away from the city center may not offer you the required.
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Travel Multiple Destinations
India is amongst the most diverse countries, geographically and culturally. You will find a vast difference in lifestyle, landscape, language, etc. amongst different cities. Therefore, it is a shame being confined to a single destination, as India has so much more to offer.
- Don’t Limit yourself to Cities: India is home to some of the most spectacular villages in the world, like Mawlynnong, Bir Billing, and Ziro Valley.
- Affordable Trips: You can travel to multiple locations for cheap. Accommodation, food, and other travel expenses are nominal in India. Hence, you can add more activities and attractions to your itinerary, and not exceed your budget.
India is an excellent destination for budget travel. You can save further by avoiding last-minute hikes in ticket prices to India. Start your trip on a high note with the lowest airfare.
And, keep the tips mentioned above in mind for the best travel experience!
