It is hard to generalise in a country that runs from the Himalayas to the beaches of the Indian Ocean but broadly speaking October to March tend to be the most pleasant months in India, when it is relatively dry and cool.
In the far south the best months to visit are between January and September, while northeastern areas of India tend to be more comfortable between March and August.
The deserts of Rajasthan (west of Jodhpur) and the northwestern Indian Himalayan region are at their best during the monsoon season (July to September).
The mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Zanskar and Kashmir should be visited over the summer months (May to September).
Language
Although English is generally used for official and business purposes, Hindi is the official state language and is spoken by about 30 percent of the population. There are 17 other official languages and hundreds of local dialects.
Money
The currency is called Indian Rupee (Rs), which is divided into100 paisa. Major currencies can be changed at banks, and authorised bureaux de change. It is usually difficult to obtain rupees outside India, but no matter what time you arrive in India there will be an exchange office open at the airport. It is illegal to exchange money through the black market and it is advisable to refuse torn notes, as no one will accept them apart from banks. It is best to change money into small denominations. Travellers cheques and major credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in tourist orientated establishments. ATMs are also widely available in major cities and major townships.
Time
India has a single time zone (GMT +5.5)
Communications
The international access code for India is +91. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). International calls can be expensive especially if made from hotels; it is cheaper to use a calling card. Alternatively, there are telephone agencies in most towns which are identifiable by the letters STD for long distance internal calls and ISD for the international service.
The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators.
Internet cafes are available in the main cities and resorts.
Tipping
Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped, however all other services expect small tips, including porters, guides, hotel staff, and waiters in small establishments. In tourist restaurants or hotels a 10% service charge is often added to the bill.
Health
To minimise the risks associated with travel to India, including malaria and dengue fever, travellers should take medical advice on vaccinations at least three weeks before departure. Those travelling from an infected area should hold a yellow fever certificate.
Drink only bottled water and ensure that the seal on the bottle is intact. Meat and fish should be regarded as suspect in all but the best restaurants and should always be well cooked and served hot.
Salads and unpeeled fruit should be avoided. Health facilities are adequate in the larger cities but limited in rural areas.
Travellers are advised to take out medical insurance.
Etiquettes & Custom
India is generally a fairly tolerant society however visitors should be aware of religious and social customs. When visiting temples and other religious sites, visitors will be required to remove their footwear and cover their heads.
In general women should dress conservatively both to respect local sensibilities and to avoid unwanted attention.
Electricity
240 volts, 50Hz. A variety of power outlets are used in India, but most plugs have two or three round pins.
