Getting Around

The best way to get around in India is the train. Recently Indian Railways have introduced a system of making online reservations at www.irctc.co.in. You need to register a login and your tickets are delivered almost anywhere within India--within  2/3 days - for a small price. Theres also the option of the INDRAIL pass though the specifications of this need to be looked into.Another alternate way of making reervations is in person. But booking a train can be a bit of a hassle.

 

Most trains are booked 15 days before they leave, but fortunately there is the famous quota, more specifically the tourist and emergency quotas. The bigger tourist centres like Mumbai, have a special counter where you can buy the tourist quota tickets, they are sold the day before the train leaves. Be there early because tickets to places like Goa are sold very quickly.

 

At smaller stations you can make use of the emergency quota. Buy a waiting list ticket and go to Station Manager and ask for a emergency ticket. Should do the job (most of the time).

 

Youth Fare India
Youth aged between 12 and 30 years are given 25% discount on economy/executive class flights on the domestic carrier. This pass is valid for 120 days.

 

Bus

India offers an extensive bus system. Deluxe and air-conditioned buses ply along the main cities. Baggage is usually tied on top of the bus so you have to ensure that your luggage is waterproof and has straps to tie it down to the rack.

 

Car

Car rentals are available in India. However, it is advisable to hire a chauffeur-driven car where the driver can also double up as a personal guide. Alternatively taxis are readily available.

 

For those of us that have a little more money there is always the airplane. You can book tickets at the more reliable travelagents, but make sure they copy your personal details correctly on the application form of the ticket else you will have nasty complications at the airport. There are regular flights between all big cities in India.

 

 

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