First-time foreign traveller to India? The full 2026 checklist

India is vibrant, diverse and unforgettable. Here is everything a first-time international traveller should know before stepping on Indian soil.

Visa & documentation

• Apply for an e-Visa at least 4-7 days before travel (we provide application support)
• Ensure passport validity of at least 6 months from date of entry
• Carry printouts plus digital copies of e-Visa, hotel bookings and travel insurance
• Print international travel insurance covering medical + emergency evacuation

Currency & payments

• Carry USD / EUR and exchange in major cities at authorised counters (we'll arrange)
• International credit / debit cards are widely accepted in cities — Visa & Mastercard work best
• Carry some local cash (₹500 + ₹100 notes) for small vendors, tips and remote areas
• UPI / payment apps are everywhere but typically require an Indian bank account

Cultural etiquette

• Dress modestly — covered shoulders & knees — at religious sites and rural areas
• Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques and most Indian homes
• Use your right hand for eating, giving and receiving
• Ask before photographing people, especially women in traditional dress

Health & safety

• Drink only bottled or filtered water
• Start with mild Indian food and build up — try cooked over raw for first 48 hours
• Carry a basic medical kit + any prescriptions in original packaging
• Save our 24×7 emergency number on WhatsApp before you fly

Mobile connectivity

Pick up a tourist SIM card at the airport (we can pre-arrange). Jio and Airtel provide the best 4G/5G coverage. Free wifi is available at airports, most hotels and many cafés.

What to pack

• Light cotton clothing (year-round)
• One warm layer (Himalayas / Munnar mornings)
• Comfortable walking shoes + open sandals
• Sunscreen, hat, mosquito repellent
• Universal travel adapter

The single app every visitor must install

Ola and Uber for safe metered taxis in cities. We provide private chauffeured cars for our guests as standard.

Plan your India journey

Contact Kerala Tour Mart — Ministry of Tourism approved inbound operator with multilingual guides, e-Visa support and full ground assistance from the moment you land.