What Canadians Need to Know Before Traveling to India

Before you book cheap flights to India from Canada, it is normal to feel a bit horrible when traveling to a new destination that is unfamiliar to you. Tripbeam is here to assist you with all the details you need to plan your trip. Thus, while life is gradually returning to some sense of routine after the pandemic, travel and tourism are on the rise.

Whether one is traveling for business or leisure with his/her friends and family or even alone, we strive to bring to you helpful tips that will see you have a meaningful enjoyable trip. Here you will find all the crucial information, starting from the application for a visa to getting to know the local currency, safety measures, and much more.

Key Information for Canadians Considering Travel to India

Let’s discuss some essential information you need to know upon arriving in India. We’ll cover these crucial factors to keep in mind:

1. Getting a Visa for India

Canadians traveling to India should apply for a Tourist eVisa. Complete the online forms and choose a suitable payment method. The current visa fee charges are about 76 CAD or about 105 CAD and the time taken to process the visa is about five days. The visa application process should begin a month before your date of departure is anticipated in case of a visa-required country. Before you purchase Business class flight tickets to India, check and make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months and that it has sufficient blank pages.

2. Time Difference between Canada and India

India follows Indian Standard Time, which is 12.5 hours ahead of Vancouver and 9.5 hours ahead of Toronto. This helps to clarify the time difference, despite India having just one time zone, whereas Canada has six.

3. Is English Sufficient for Communication in India?

India has over 22 languages spoken throughout the country. While Hindi is predominant in many regions, the extent of English proficiency varies depending on the location.

English is commonly used among the educated population nationwide, yet not universally understood by the general public. While navigating India, learning a few basic phrases and cultural norms can enhance your experience. For instance, greeting locals with a simple “Namaste” can often open doors to assistance and goodwill.

4. Packing Essentials for Your Trip to India

First and foremost, pack a sturdy backpack along with a cable and lock for security. Comfortable shoes suitable for walking, hand sanitizer, and wipes are essential. Flip-flops are handy, especially for beach visits in India.

Consider bringing toilet paper as it may not be readily available everywhere in India. This item is practical to carry regardless of whether you are exploring major cities or remote regions of the country.

5. What to Wear in India?

Choosing appropriate attire is crucial in India, where cultural norms emphasize modesty. While major cities may feature modern fashion, most parts of the country prefer conservative, non-revealing clothing for women.

To avoid unwanted attention and ensure comfort during your trip, opt for clothes that are modest and loose-fitting. Take the weather into consideration. A scarf comes in helpful for protecting the head and face during the hot summer months. Research the dress codes of specific locations you plan to visit to dress accordingly and enjoy your journey without inhibitions.

6. Currency Rates and Payment Methods in India

The current exchange rate is approximately 1 Canadian dollar for 61 Indian rupees. When in India, using ATMs is the most convenient way to access cash, with daily withdrawal limits ranging from 10,000 to 25,000 Indian rupees. One must also read about the Best Currency Exchange Options for 2024 Travellers.

While carrying Canadian dollars, US dollars, or Euros for exchange in India is convenient, keep in mind that currency conversion costs apply. Foreigners are restricted from importing or exporting Indian rupees. When carrying cash, amounts exceeding USD 5000 must be declared.

7. Is India Expensive to Visit from Canada?

India is generally affordable for foreign travelers, with costs varying between regions. Major cities may have higher expenses compared to other areas, but overall, traveling here is not excessively costly.

Tourists frequent major destinations across the country, both in the south and north. While urban centers can be pricier, the northern regions are relatively more economical.

8. Is It Safe to Visit India?

Safety for travelers in India varies by location. While some areas may experience occasional conflicts, it’s advisable to heed local advice from guides and drivers regarding safe travel routes.

Most tourist destinations in India are considered safe, attracting millions of national and international visitors annually. Solo female travelers also frequent these destinations without major safety concerns. Overall, India offers a safe and enriching travel experience for all types of explorers.

To Sum Up

Tripbeam offers affordable and competitively priced last minute flights from Canada to India. Famous for our expertise in providing cheap flight tickets, we take pride in our extensive customer base of satisfied travelers. Providing comprehensive information for international travel, we also feature exclusive discounts and deals on airline tickets to Canada and India, making us a trusted choice for all your booking needs.