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Responsible tourism in India

Posted on March 20, 2020May 9, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Responsible tourism in India is becoming an increasingly popular mode of travel. And we’re glad it is since responsible travel is the need of the hour. At India Someday, we’re glad to help you become more responsible travellers, whether it’s through small changes or supporting ethical tourism initiatives. From being environmentally-conscious to respecting the culture of the people. This is our guide on responsible tourism in India and is a must-read.

Cycle rickshaws are common traits and best mode of transport in the narrow lanes

What is responsible travel?

Responsible travel asks us to take into consideration the impact of our travel choices on the environment and the local cultures of our destinations. Being a responsible traveller means ensuring your travel impact is as low as possible, and positive when unavoidable. It also warrants the responsibility of knowing the ethical practices of the companies and organisations you patronize.

Cycle tours are always cherished and promoted

8 easy ways to be a part of responsible tourism

Consciously making decisions to be a responsible traveller is the first step towards responsible tourism in India and elsewhere. We’ve listed down 8 easy points that are a sure-fire way of positively combating that carbon footprint.

1. Opt for authenticity over conventionality

Choose homestays and BnBs over chain hotels. Shopping at local markets is always fun, while eating at local joints instead of mainstream recommendations gives you authentic culinary experiences. Patronize initiatives supporting the livelihood & skills of marginalised communities or local craftsmen. The Anokhi Museum in Rajasthan is trying to preserve the dying handicraft and art form of hand printing, while Sadhna supports handicrafts made by the women of rural, tribal and urban slum areas in Southern Rajasthan. Sheroes’ Hangout Café in Agra is an entrepreneurial project that is managed by acid attack survivors. These are just a few examples, there are several more.

2. Respect local customs, traditions and rituals wherever you go

Remove your shoes before entering temples and mosques, and cover your shoulders and legs in sacred places. Don’t disturb people in prayer or meditation. Finally, always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo. Being cognizant of your surroundings is an equally important aspect of responsible tourism.

3. Travel without increasing your carbon footprint

Ideally, avoid private transportation and flights. Opt instead for public transportation. Cycling, walking, buses, taxis, metros & tuk-tuks, and shared Ubers work well for local journeys. Longer distances can be covered with overnight buses and trains instead of flights. Go through our blogs if you’re looking at some tour ideas for the same.

4. Reduce the wastage of plastic and food

Carry a water filter bottle and wherever possible, refill it with water. Ask hotels if they have water filters to refill and avoid purchasing plastic bottles, despite their convenience. Carry around a cotton bag to avoid being handed plastic ones and invest in a foldable metal straw and metal cutlery. Do not waste food if you can help it. This is perhaps the simplest way to promote responsible tourism in India and the world.

5. Always do a little research when it comes to wildlife tourism

Certain organisations like Wildlife SOS and TOFT Tigers are eco-conscious and reliable. There are several others that are sketchy and don’t have the welfare of the animals at heart. Try to ensure that you are well informed on elephant-back safaris, and avoid them if possible. India Someday can help you with this; just shoot us an email or click on Plan Your Trip.

6. Support responsible & sustainable tourism projects

There are several such projects in the tourism industry, such as Reality Tours, that provides city walks and tours. It is a social business that uses a profit-sharing model to fund their sister-NGO Reality Gives. The Salaam Baalak Trust that provides a sensitive and caring environment to street and working children also has a Delhi city tour you can go on. It is led by the same children they nurture. Opt for eco-friendly bicycle tours or walking tours when you can. Additionally, choose to stay at hotels like Indhrivanam, a vegan eco-cottage, and CGH Earth eco-luxury hotels.

7. Voluntourism, though appealing, is also to be approached with caution

Volunteer for something you are skilled at, and volunteer for a decent period of time. A few months’ works of a skill you possess will make a world of difference. Dropping into a school or orphanage will only serve to make you feel better, without actually helping the children. Making informed decisions is the best way to approach this.

8. Choose local small-scale travel agents with good practices to plan your trip

Supporting an organisation run by locals is beneficial to the local economy. Also, who better than a local to help guide you on responsibly traversing across their country? Ditch the large corporations for some local authenticity. India Someday is proud to be one of these local organisations, and we’d be happy to help you in any way possible!

Avoid buying plastic water bottles, refill while travelling

India Someday recommends

You don’t just have to be a long-term volunteer to help communities in your destination. India Someday has vetted several organisations, and we are happy to help promote responsible tourism in India. Alongside the aforementioned Reality Tours and the Salaam Baalak Trust, consider the below options as well.

LHA in McLeodganj offers Tibetan cooking classes and even considers drop-in volunteers.
Clap Global, located in Mumbai, is perfect for travellers looking to get in a few hours of volunteering while in the city. You have the opportunity to speak about your country to a group of young children; contact us to know more.
Vanghat Eco Lodge in the Jim Corbett National Park is an eco-friendly lodge with loads of activities for children and adults.
Sunder Rang crafts in Rajasthan maintains and supports the local craft skills of the women in Chandelao village, creating a sustainable source of income for them.
Dhonk crafts in Ranthambore trains the wives of ex-poachers and gives an alternative form of employment to those previously involved in illegal woodcutting, grazing and hunting.
Women on Wheels, located in major metropoles like Delhi, Jaipur and Kolkata, empowers women by placing them behind the wheel.
The women at Pink City Rickshaw Company take you around Jaipur and Udaipur, driving you to the main sites and making your memories of travel in India interesting.

Dive Into: Rajasthan’s Top-Rated Destinations

Our guest Robert & her daughter Gina donated school stationery which the kids loved a lot

how India Someday supports responsible trAVEL

As a company that has helped scores of people have the perfect trip across India. India Someday takes several of its own measures to support responsible tourism in India. Accordingly, wherever we can, we suggest travelling by train. We book stays in warm, family-run businesses, homestays and eco-friendly hotels. We recommend local vendors and markets that cut out the middle-man. Additionally, we rope our vendors in as well. We also ensure they use big water containers our guests can refill from. At the same time also informing them on which places support responsible tourism.

At India Someday, we support social projects and have the thrill of taking a group of underprivileged children on a lovely holiday once a year. We have vetted animal-related activities as much as possible, only recommending animal-friendly and socially responsible activities. All our clients receive tip documents at the start of every trip, that mentions recommendations supporting responsible travel. When it comes to things like these, we will always keep you well-informed and leave the final call to you.

We hope this guide has helped you realize there are simple ways to travel in India. If you’d like a customized trip that ensures responsible travel in India, just hit Plan Your Trip and we’ll get it done.

Bags donated to encourage education amongst the young ones

Ayurveda in India – All you need to know

Posted on September 30, 2019May 9, 2025 by Tanja Holbe

India is known across the world as the home to ancient forms of healing and mastering the body. Among these is the art of Ayurveda. It is the traditional Hindu system of medicine based on the idea of balance in bodily systems. It is also one of the reasons many people, tourists and Indians alike, travel across India seeking out Ayurvedic treatment. Read on to know more about Ayurveda and Ayurveda retreats in India.

The ancient art of Ayurveda originated in India (Photo Credits – Gundula Vogel from Pixabay)

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a 5000 year old art of healing from India. It is the oldest recorded traditional system of medicine which is still practiced and lived today. Ayurveda takes into account the physical and mental constitution of the person and how his/her social relationships influence their environment.

It teaches us how our lives can be influenced, shaped and extended, and eventually be controlled. Hence, Ayurveda requires self-responsibility regarding the quality of nutrition, your way of life and the mindfulness with yourself and others. An Ayurveda retreat can therefore help you with recreation and well-being in general.

Ayurveda is also effective to treat and sometimes cure chronic diseases. Some of these diseases include rheumatic diseases, metabolic disorders, cardiac cycle afflictions, allergies, skin diseases and gynaecological disorders. Ayurveda can also have a positive effect on patients with mental disorders like depression, anxiety, etc., because the concept of Ayurveda suggests that physical as well as mental disorders originate from disorders in the flow and balance of energy.

Of course, the usual precondition applies: Ayurveda can only unfold its full potential if practiced in daily life and not only in the Ayurveda retreat.

Ayurveda in India makes use of certain plants and herbs

How does Ayurveda work?

There will first be a thorough diagnostics of the eyes, pulse and tongue, and you will fill a questionnaire about your health. Post that, a licensed doctor proposes a plan for treatment. They will adjust it according to personal requests, the time you will spend at the Ayurveda retreat and the climatic conditions during the stay. Personal diagnostics and daily consultations with experts are an essential part of every high-quality Ayurveda therapy. During the treatment, you will have a daily consultation session in which you can individually adjust the treatment and its intensity according to your condition.

Daily personal consultation sessions with experts make the experience highly individualized

Ayurveda harmonizes the mind and body through herb and oil applications. The essence of Ayurvedic medicine, which is the knowledge of herbs and their effects, is mostly unknown to the western world. The healing effect of Ayurveda is based on the individual composition of applications of oil and herbs.

Another essential part of Ayurveda retreats is Yoga and meditation, and both of these, along with Ayurveda, originated from the ‘vedic’ science.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the Ayurveda retreat as well, since it is one of the cornerstones of the concept of Ayurveda. Due to the different metabolisms of every body, a nutrition consultant who offers advice according to the requirements of the individual body is part of a typical Ayurveda treatment. This consultant helps you learn what you can improve in the future when you are back home. In general, an Ayurveda retreat is fit for everyone who wants to improve one’s health and well-being.

Nutrition is one of the important components of the concept of Ayurveda

What is the best time to come to india for an ayurveda retreat?

Typically, people come to India for Ayurveda retreats during the monsoon. Kerala in South India is where you will find the most retreats. The monsoon season here starts in June and lasts until September, and returns again from October to November. This is the best time for the body to purge itself. But this also means that the climate brings a lot of rain, humidity and sometimes even flooding and landslides. If you want to avoid these climatic conditions, you’re better off choosing a time in winter, between December and March. From March until the next monsoon season in June it can be very hot and humid.

See Also: Ideal Times Visit Kerala

Read on: Investigate the Best Timing for a Journey to India

At some Ayurveda retreats, you will be greeted in the traditional Indian style of paying respects to a guest – (Photo Credits – Fabrice Florin)

HOW LONG TO SPEND IN A RETREAT FOR AYURVEDA IN INDIA?

Since Ayurveda depends so much upon the individual and your life, there is no commonly followed duration for an Ayurveda retreat in India. If you want to go to an Ayurveda retreat for recreation and wellness, 2 weeks are sufficient. However, it is not uncommon for people to seek treatments and help with more serious diseases or illnesses. If this is your intention, then we advise planning for a longer stay, from 4 to 6 weeks. Take even longer if necessary.

Looking for Luxury Stay? Here is our Guide to Best Hotels in India

Ayurvedic treatment is unlike any other, and is a big reason tourists visit India (Photo Credits – Fabrice Florin)

why is india someday your best partner for Ayurveda retreats in India ?

We believe that Ayurveda retreats in India give you an absolutely authentic treatment and medical success. India is its country of origin and the art grew and developed here. To provide you with the best possible experience, we from India Someday work closely with local experts. Hence, we can ensure you the most competent service in planning your Ayurveda retreat in India.

Ayurveda in India deploys various oil massages and treatments (Photo Credits – Destinos Asiaticos Viajes Frontia)

If you want to travel in India before or after your Ayurveda retreat, we would love to help plan your trip. Because the only thing better than getting to know a country and its people is ending with finding your inner balance.

Contact us now to plan your authentic Ayurveda retreat and your travel in India, customized to fit your needs. We look forward to making your trip a success, medically as well as experience-wise. Plan your trip now! .

The 9 Most Luxuriously Indulgent Hotels in India

Posted on April 30, 2019May 15, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

When it comes to luxury hotels, you can find some of the best luxury hotels in India. At the core of Indian culture is hospitality. “Atithi Devo Bhava” is a motto most Indians follow, which means, “A guest is akin to God”. So when you stay anywhere in India, you can rest assured that you will get the best treatment, especially when it comes to India’s many luxurious hotels.

Here is our pick of some of the best luxury hotels in India.

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai

The Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Set amidst the waters of Lake Pichola, the pristine Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is one of the most extravagant and luxurious hotels in India. The structure, built of white marble, floats across the shimmering lake waters, exuding an otherworldly charm.

The Taj Lake Palace was originally built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1746 as a summer retreat for royals of the Mewar dynasty. Centuries later, guests here are still treated as royalty by the butlers and staff who have waited on guests like Queen Elizabeth and Jacqueline Kennedy.

Guests can choose from a variety of restaurants offering a wide range of Indian as well as international cuisines. The Jiva Spa is ideal for spa treatments and healing therapies. Be it a walk in the lush gardens or a relaxing boat ride on the lake, every whim and fancy of the guests is catered for by the adept staff.

Great for: Honeymoons, anniversaries and any other very special occasion.

Udaipur Taj Lake Palace Hotel, Best luxury hotel in Rajasthan, 5 star hotel in Rajasthan

The Leela Palace, Udaipur

On the banks of Lake Pichola is another extravagant retreat – the Leela Palace in Udaipur, a part of the Leela Group, one of the largest hotel chains in India. The interiors are inspired by Rajasthani architecture, fusing traditional Indian style with all the modern amenities a guest would need.

The 80 lavish rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of Lake Pichola and the Aravalli hills, while the spa provides Ayurvedic treatments. The hotel has delectable dining options from all over the world, ensuring that you have a royal experience.

Some other luxurious Leela Group hotels include Leela Palace, Chennai, Leela Palace, Delhi, and Leela Palace, Jaipur.

Great for: A luxurious Rajasthani hospitality

The Taj Mahal Palace

The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai is a rich blend of Oriental, Moorish, and Florentine styles of architecture steeped in history. Inaugurated in 1903, the opulence of the Taj Mahal Hotel is renowned all over the world.

With guests like George Bernard Shaw and Barack Obama to its credit, the Taj has extra tight security since the 2008 terrorist bombings. The intricately designed rooms and suites offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea or the bustling cityscape. With Michelin-star restaurants, spa facilities, and a terrific outdoor pool, the Taj offers impeccable service to its guests.

Great for: Unending views of the Arabian Sea in the city that never sleeps

Umaid Bhavan Palace, Jodhpur

Another Taj Group property, Umaid Bhavan is one of the most expensive luxury hotels in India, and with good reason: it is one of the world’s largest private residences, belonging to the Jodhpur royal family.

The Umaid Bhawan Palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh between 1928 and 1943. The Makrana marble used in the palm court is the same that was used in the construction of the Taj Mahal by Shah Jahan in Agra.

Part of the residence has been converted into a heritage hotel since 1972, blending together Indo-Saracenic architecture and Art Deco style into 70 luxurious rooms and suites fit for a royal stay. A part of it is still home to the current Maharaja of Jodhpur.

You can often spot peacocks across the sprawling 26 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards. You will be spoilt for choice with the array of experiences the hotel offers, such as retail therapy, visiting the on-site museum, enjoying a game of snooker, or getting ayurvedic treatments at the Jiva Grande Spa.

Great for: When you feel like being treated like royalty.

Umaid Bhawan Heritage Hotel (Photo Credit – VD)

Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom

From God’s own country, Kerala, comes the luxurious Kumarakom Lake Resort. Situated on the banks of the tranquil Vembanad lake, this resort is the perfect blend of traditional architecture and modern-day conveniences.

Sprawled across 25 acres of lawns, Kumarakom Lake Resort blends the charm of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage with world class amenities that ensure a luxurious stay. The south Indian architecture of the resort uses traditional materials sourced from different ancestral homes across Kerala.It also features a pool that links all the cottages together.

Great for: A luxurious break on a family holiday.

Green luxury (Photo credit – Dhimant Patel)

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Sitting at an elevation of 2000 feet above the city, the majestic Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad is an opulent affair. Once the residence of the Nizams (rulers) of the richest kingdom of pre-independence India, the magnificent hotel exudes the luxury and grandeur of a bygone era.

Venetian chandeliers, intricate frescoes, priceless murals and handcrafted furniture adorn the palace, creating a regal air. The terraces of the palace offer mesmerizing views of the city. That’s not all, though – the palace offers impeccable services and a range of experiences, including a heritage walk of the palace, to make your stay a memorable one.

Great for: A glimpse into how the other half lives, at one of the most opulent hotels in the country.

Falaknuma Palace (Photo Credit – Saurabh Chatterjee)

The Oberoi Amarvilas

You need to see the Taj Mahal to believe it. No photograph or description, however eloquent, could do it justice. At the Oberoi Amarvilas, you can do that from the comfort of your suite.

Situated a mere 600 meters from the iconic Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra is one of the most luxurious hotels in India. The architectural wonder of the hotel is such that each of the opulent 102 rooms and suites offers a mesmerizing view of the legendary monument.

This alone justifies its place among India’s most luxurious hotels. But there is a lot more to Amarvilas than just the view: every room is outfitted with the choicest of furnishing, and the hospitality is without fault.

The reflection pools, terraced lawns, fine dining restaurants, spa treatments, and wellness facilities offer you a regal luxury and comfort that remains unparalleled.

The Oberoi Amarvilas is built and owned by the Oberoi Group, which also owns the grand Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, and the lavish Oberoi, New Delhi.

Great for: An indulgent break as you travel across North India, with the Taj Mahal always in your line of sight.

Check Out: Rajasthan’s Top Destinations

Stunning views of Taj Mahal (Photo Credit – The Oberoi AmarVilas Agra)

Rambagh Palace

Located in Jaipur, the Rambagh Palace is known as the “Jewel of Jaipur”. It was originally built in 1835 as a garden house for the queen’s favorite handmaiden. It went through many expansions and renovations, from royal guesthouse, hunting lodge, to the royal residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and his queen, Maharani Gayatri Devi.

In 1957, it was converted into a luxury hotel by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. Today, the palace offers 78 restored rooms and suites, once the chambers of the former king.

Intricately carved latticework, huge crystal chandeliers, and sprawling Mughal Gardens give the palace an air of splendour. A museum in the palace displays royal artefacts of the Maharajas and Maharanis (Kings and Queens) of Jaipur, such as portraits, exquisite artworks, weapons, and furniture.

Great for: an opulent, luxurious stay

Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore National Park

Surrounded by the majestic Aravalli Hills, Aman-i-Khas is a luxurious experience like no other, as it is situated close to Ranthambore National Park. A mirage of grandeur amidst the wilderness, the hotel’s accommodations include 10 luxury tents complete with state of the art amenities and a five-star experience.

With king-sized beds, hot showers, and marble bathtubs, along with a spa, a pool, a library, and restaurant, these lavish tents take camping to a whole new level. You can immerse yourself in the wildlife of the forest in the true sense, as well as go on wildlife safaris through the Ranthambore National Park.

Great for: experiencing wildlife without compromising on comfort and luxury

What constitutes a luxury hotel in India?

When it comes to travel experiences, luxury hotels in India offer an unparalleled level of comfort, opulence and indulgence. From the serene backwaters of Kerala to the vibrant city of Mumbai or India’s capital New Delhi, these hotels redefine luxury, offering travellers an escape into a world of indulgence and splendour. India’s exceptional accommodations redefine the art of hospitality, offering travellers a taste of extravagance against the rich cultural backdrop of the country. Let us delve into the various factors that constitute luxury hotels in India:

Architectural Grandeur:

Luxury hotels in India boast awe-inspiring architectural marvels that fuse traditional elements with contemporary design. The Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is a prime example, floating like a jewel on Lake Pichola. Its luxurious rooms, white marble facade, intricate carvings and domed architecture harken back to royal Mewar aesthetics, creating an enchanting ambiance.

Exceptional Service:

Whether it is The Oberoi New Delhi or Kumarakom Lake Resort, impeccable service is a hallmark of luxury hotels in India. Personalised attention, 24/7 concierge services and a dedicated staff ensure guests’ needs are met promptly and with utmost care. The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra is known as one of the best hotels for its gracious hospitality, not only providing a private view of the iconic Taj Mahal from each room but also top-notch fine dining.

Lavish Accommodations:

Luxury hotels offer lavish rooms and suites, meticulously designed with exquisite decor and state-of-the-art amenities. The Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, a former royal residence, now boasts opulent suites adorned with precious fabrics, antique furniture and modern conveniences, providing an experience fit for kings and queens. You may walk through a UNESCO world heritage site like Hawa Mahal in the day and return to your own palace at night.

Culinary Delights:

Fine dining experiences are a highlight of luxury hotels in India. They often house award-winning restaurants helmed by renowned chefs. The Leela Palace Udaipur houses the famous Sheesh Mahal restaurant, offering a regal ambiance and a delectable array of Indian cuisines.

Spa and Wellness:

Luxury hotels pamper guests with world-class spa and wellness facilities. The Ananda in the Himalayas is a haven of tranquillity, nestled in the foothills, offering holistic therapies, yoga retreats and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can tell how luxurious a hotel is by the quality of your spa treatment. And if immersing yourself in a crystal aqua outdoor pool is your choice of relaxation, then the Leela Palace in Udaipur doesn’t disappoint.

Cultural Immersion:

Many luxury hotels in India provide opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the local culture. The Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad arranges heritage walks, allowing visitors to explore the Nizam’s palatial residence and its historical significance.

Exclusive Experiences:

These hotels curate exclusive experiences to ensure an unforgettable stay. The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur offers private picnics in the royal gardens, vintage car rides and curated city tours, giving guests a taste of the regal lifestyle.

Scenic Locations:

Luxury hotels often boast breathtaking locations. The Wildflower Hall in Shimla, nestled amidst the Himalayas, offers panoramic views, outdoor activities and an ambiance that fosters both relaxation and adventure. For the wildlife enthusiasts, who prefer to immerse themselves in nature and be one with their wild sides, the Ranthambore National Park provides luxury tents for the adventurous traveller.

As you embark on your journey to India, consider immersing yourself in the lap of luxury to experience the country’s hospitality at its finest.

Luxury hotels in India ( Photo Credit – Yeskay1211_Pixabay)

Love these hotels and looking at planning a memorable trip to India? We’re here to help you plan your next holiday to India – get in touch!

Flying in India

Posted on October 1, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Flying in India is often seen as the most effective way to travel. India is generally a largely inexpensive travel destination. Most of the large cities and metros are well connected by airways.

Taking a flight is certainly one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to travel within India. Jet Airways and Air India are the main and long-standing airlines. Other budget airlines include IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir.

SpiceJet is one of the most common domestic flights in India

How much does flying in India cost?

Planning in advance is key. If you book at least 4 to 5 months or more before your travel dates. You can get flights for as low as USD 44 (EUR 32).

The longer and further your destination is, the more expensive it is. Tickets for high-demand flights, such as Delhi-Mumbai will also be higher in price, especially in peak tourist seasons. We recommend booking flight tickets in advance in order to get the cheapest fares.

You can find great deals on domestic flight tickets on online booking websites such as Make My Trip, Cleartrip, Yatra, etc. You can also book tickets over the phone or through an agent rather than making booking at the airport itself.

Travel agents usually know where to get the best deals in terms of routes and fares. That’s why it’s usually advisable to go through a reliable agent.

Explore Further: Delving into the Budgeting for Travel in India

(Photo Credit: Pixabay)

Can I fly to every city on my itinerary?

India is so large that it would be extremely time-consuming and complicated to travel around it without a flight or two. However, the airline connectivity in India is not as good as the railway connectivity.

You will find that not all towns of tourist interest are connected by direct flights. Further, flying is not the most sustainable way to travel, so we suggest opting for other modes of transport where possible.

For example, if you are touring the famous Golden Triangle (i.e Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) you cannot fly between these cities. The best alternative here is to fly into Delhi then rent a car (with a driver). Or take a train to Agra and the same from Agra to Jaipur.

Jaipur has an airport and regular flights to Delhi. So if your trip ends in Jaipur, you can fly back to Delhi. But if you are travelling within Rajasthan, say Pushkar or Jodhpur (which does have an airport), a train or car is the only alternative.

Similarly in the South too, you can fly into Kochi or Trivandrum but for travel within Kerala, you cannot.

Flying in India is certainly time-effective. SpiceJet and Air India have recently introduced daily flights between Delhi and Dharamshala. So the 12-hour train journey from Delhi to Pathankot, plus a 3-hour drive from Pathankot to Dharamshala is now shortened to a 1 hour flight.

However, the overnight train is still a very economic alternative and the 3-hour drive is an extremely scenic ride into Dharamshala. You can now fly direct from Varanasi to Agra. Air India is the only airline, however, they do not fly daily. Check for the days they fly when planning your itinerary.

Jet Airways (Photo Credit – Daniel Eledut)

How early do I need to be at the airport, and what is my luggage allowance?

Effective April 2014, the check-in counters for domestic flights close 45 minutes prior to the time of departure on your ticket. It is advisable to reach at least 75-90 minutes before to ensure a hassle-free check-in.

Hand luggage is X-rayed and stamped before check-in. All cabin baggage must have a baggage tag as to get you through security check. There are specific security requirements for flights to politically/socially sensitive areas as Kashmir, Ladakh etc. They may disallow cabin luggage and confiscate batteries in electronics. Baggage identification on tarmac may be expected of you before loading.

You can also web check-in for your flight. Web check-in is allowed 24 hrs prior to departure. You need to log on to the airline website, pull out your reservation, and follow the steps as directed.

You can select your seats here and at the end, save a copy of the boarding pass and carry a printout along, or simply save a copy on your phone if the airline allows it. If you have already checked-in online, you can reach the airport 60 mins prior to your flight departure.

The allowance for check-in baggage is 15 kgs for economy class passengers and 30 kgs for those flying business class on standard domestic carriers.

For cabin baggage, as per regulations by the Government, currently, only one piece of cabin baggage per adult/child passenger is permitted onboard. The weight of the cabin baggage should not exceed 7 kgs. Passengers are permitted to carry one laptop over and above one piece of hand luggage as cabin baggage.

If your check-in baggage exceeds 15 kgs, you are charged INR 250 per additional kg which is to be paid directly at the airport.

Passengers on board (Photo Credit – Orna Wachman)

Can you help with information on cancellation and refunds?

The cancellation and refund process is now quite easy and hassle-free. You can cancel online directly or via phone. It takes about 3 to 5 working days for the amount to get credited in your account.

The cancellation or date change charges are between INR 1,500-1,800 per person per flight depending on the airline and if booked through Make My Trip or Cleartrip, they charge an additional INR 250 per person.

Be aware, however, that airlines may cancel their flights if there have not been enough bookings on it to cover their costs. This is more likely during off-season months. If this happens, they will be required to give passengers a full refund. Where available they will offer you seats on an alternative flight. Sometimes, where this is not an option, it is ideal to take a refund and make an alternative booking.

If this happens on your trip, feel free to contact us and we can help you in any way that we can. Alternatively, let us know any questions you may have about flying in India – we’ll be happy to help.

(Photo Credit: Pixabay)