Travel Tips for India

Visa Requirements - Everyone entering India must obtain a tourist visa prior to traveling. Visas can be obtained through the Indian Embassy or a private visa service. As of the time of this writing U.S citizens were charged 60usd for a tourist Visa good for up to 6 months in India. In addition, your passport must be valid for up to 6 months after your trip date is scheduled. For more information please contact the Indian Embassy at www.indianembassy.org

Water - Unfortunately, water for consumption while traveling internationally is not always as reliable as your water at home. It is imperative that we all pay close attention to our own personal hygiene and staying healthy before and throughout the river expedition. Please be religious about washing your hands throughout the trip, especially before and after eating and using the toilet. Tap water and water served from unknown sources before and after the trip is not to be trusted. Stick with bottled water only! You may choose to bring your own water purification system or tablets. However, there will always be plenty of clean water available throughout the river portion of the expedition.

Weather - The Brahmaputra River Valley has a mild to temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit) between November and April. This is the dry season when we are on the river, although, the mornings can be dewy and we do expect to be getting wet. The combination of water and crisp weather means we will take extra care in staying warm and dry.

Money - The national currency of India is the Rupee (Rs) and at the time of this writing, the exchange rate is 56Rs to 1USD and 79Rs to 1GBP. It is always advised not to accept disfigured or torn bills. It’s also a good idea to carry a mixture of cash and travelers checks. As well as an exchange booth upon arrival at the Delhi International airport, there are ATM’s available in all major cities and credit cards accepted at larger hotels and restaurants. In Delhi, tipping is accepted at restaurants and hotel room services. Somewhere between 5-10% is appropriate.

Beverages - Hydration is always of the utmost importance for us on all river expeditions. Especially due to the high temperatures and physical exertion necessary throughout the trip. In addition to water, we provide a modest amount of cocktails, wine and juice mix. If you plan on consuming a larger amount of alcoholic beverages, specific sodas or juices, please let your trip leader know in order to find everything you need before the trip. If there are specific brands you are looking for its best to find them in Duty free on your way to the destination.

Health Precautions - India requires no specific vaccinations to enter. Please contact the Center for Disease Control or the Global Descents travel desk for more information on vaccinations. Always obtain water from a reliable source when traveling abroad. Global Descents recommends well known and reliable brands of bottled water (with seal intact.) Additionally, peel and/or wash all fruits and vegetables and be wary of street food! The Zanskar is a physically demanding trip at high altitude. Contact Global Descents with additional health questions or for pre-expedition work-out recommendations.

Shopping- This trip offers spectacular shopping opportunities, mostly in the form of outdoor markets full of individual vendors with small booths. The jewelry, textiles, carvings and religious relics are amazing! Bargaining is part of the culture practiced in virtually all markets so be prepared. Plan on your bags weighing in a bit more on your return home!

Altitude Considerations- Travel to any part of Ladakh deserves a little more respect than other high altitude destinations because the region lies over 2600 meters (8500 ft). People in good health should not be alarmed, however, if you have a medical condition such as high blood pressure, heart or lung disease, please take the advice of a doctor who has experience with the effects of altitude. Adding any kind of physical activity or training prior to this trip is advisable. This will enable you to enjoy the region more, even though all hikes are optional and the rafting not of a very strenuous nature. Symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue, shortness of breath, and disturbed sleep are fairly common symptoms upon arrival in Leh. To help insure the utmost comfort and enjoyment throughout the expedition, rest and hydration during our time in Leh is highly recommended.