Travel Tips

Best Time to Travel

India’s vast geography creates multiple travel windows across the year. The most comfortable period is generally between October and April, when most regions experience drier conditions. The monsoon season (May–September) is best avoided for general travel, though it is ideal for wellness journeys, particularly Ayurveda experiences in southern India.

What to Pack

Light, breathable clothing is recommended for most regions, with a light layer for air-conditioned interiors. Northern India can experience cold winters, especially in hill regions, so warm clothing is required between December and February. Modest attire is required when visiting sacred and religious sites, and sun protection is essential year-round.

Cuisine

Indian cuisine is regionally diverse and layered with spices. Heat levels can typically be adjusted to preference at hotels and curated restaurants. As tap water is not purified for drinking, bottled or purified water is recommended.

Language

Hindi and English are widely spoken, alongside numerous regional languages. English is commonly used within the hospitality sector.

Currency

The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency. ATMs and foreign exchange facilities are widely available. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels and established retail outlets.

Electricity

220–240V, 50Hz. A universal travel adapter is recommended.

Formalities

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival. Visa requirements vary by nationality; travellers should consult the relevant embassy prior to departure.

Best Time to Travel

Nepal experiences 5 distinct seasons, with autumn (September–November) widely considered the best time to visit. Skies are clear, temperatures are comfortable, and mountain visibility is at its peak.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are advisable, particularly for higher elevations. For trekking, appropriate gear should be considered. A small daypack is often more practical than large luggage. To observe local customs, please ensure modest dress is worn when entering temples and holy spaces.

Cuisine

Nepali cuisine centres around rice, lentils, vegetables, and lean meats. Tap water in Nepal is not purified for drinking, so bottled or purified water is recommended.

Language

Nepali is the official language, though English is widely spoken within the tourism sector.

Currency

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the official currency. Currency exchange services are available at airports and in major cities. Credit cards are accepted at established hotels and restaurants.

Electricity

220–240V, 50Hz. A universal travel adapter is advised.

Formalities

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. Visa-on-arrival is available for many nationalities; travellers should verify current regulations prior to departure.

Best Time to Travel

The most favourable travel periods are autumn (September–December) and spring (April–May). Autumn offers clear Himalayan views and vibrant festivals, while spring brings blooming landscapes and mild weather.

What to Pack

Layered clothing is recommended due to altitude and temperature variations. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest dressing is required when visiting monasteries and dzongs.

Cuisine

Bhutanese cuisine features rice, seasonal vegetables, and dishes seasoned with chillies and cheese. Hotels typically adapt spice levels for international travellers.

Language

Dzongkha is the national language. English is widely spoken, particularly in tourism and hospitality.

Currency

The Ngultrum (Nu.) is pegged to the Indian Rupee, which is also accepted (excluding certain denominations). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels.

Electricity

220–240V. Two- and three-pin round plug types are common. A universal adapter is recommended.

Formalities

A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) and visa clearance are required prior to travel.

Best Time to Travel

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. The south and west coasts are best between December and March, while the east coast experiences favourable conditions from April to September.

What to Pack

Lightweight clothing is suitable year-round, with a light layer for hill country evenings. Rain protection may be useful depending on the season. Appropriate, modest clothing is essential for entry into religious and heritage sites.

Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is defined by fragrant curries, rice, seafood, and coconut-based dishes. Spice levels can typically be moderated upon request.

Language

Sinhala and Tamil are official languages. English is widely spoken, particularly in urban and tourism areas.

Currency

The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the official currency. ATMs and exchange facilities are widely available. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.

Electricity

230–240V, 50Hz. A universal adapter is recommended.

Formalities

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required prior to arrival.

Best Time to Travel

The Maldives enjoys warm temperatures year-round. The most favourable conditions for calm seas and clear skies occur between December and April. Surf season runs from March to October, while May to October offers fewer crowds and strong marine visibility for diving, particularly manta ray and whale shark encounters.

What to Pack

Light resort wear, swimwear, and sun protection are essential. A light cover-up is recommended when visiting local islands, where modest dressing is required.

Cuisine

Maldivian cuisine reflects Indian Ocean influences, featuring seafood, coconut, and mild spices. International dining options are widely available at resorts.

Language

Dhivehi is the national language. English is widely spoken across resorts and hospitality services.

Currency

The Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) is the official currency, though US Dollars are widely accepted at resorts. Major credit cards are commonly used.

Electricity

230V, 50Hz. Most resorts provide international plug compatibility, though a universal adapter is recommended.

Formalities

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. A tourist visa is issued on arrival for most nationalities, subject to current regulations. Travellers should consult the relevant embassy prior to departure.