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Which airport do I need to fly into and out of? Plus airport code
Fly into and out of Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi.
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What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?
Before 12 pm ideally. The welcome meeting will take place at 4 pm at the hotel, which is located 45-60 minutes away from the airport.
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What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no activities planned for the last day, so you can leave any time you like. We recommend booking a flight that leaves after 10am.
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Do you include airport transfers?
If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.
Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.
A departure transfer is not included, but taxis to the airport are good value, especially if you split the cost with others in your group. Your Pack Leader can help you book your transfers the night before if needed.
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Should I be prepared for culture shock?
Colourful and chaotic, we think India is one of the most exhilarating and rewarding travel destinations in the world, but first-time visitors should be prepared for some level of culture shock.
Our Classic India tour finishes in the atmospheric spiritual hub of Varanasi. Even by Indian standards, Varanasi can be challenging and disorientating. Not only are the streets here even more crowded, but it is a city where devoted pilgrims come to die, hoping to break the Hindu cycle of rebirth and attain salvation. You will witness cremation ghats on the banks of the Ganges and may even see bodies floating down the river, which can feel shocking to Western travellers. However, bear in mind that death here is a normalised part of life.
Travelling as part of a Flash Pack group, you’ll be well looked after from start to finish. Your Pack Leader will help you adjust to the different experiences and make sure that you feel comfortable.
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Do I need a visa?
Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.
You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:
Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.
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What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Consult with a healthcare professional
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.
2. Up-to-date medical advice
3. Government travel advice
4. Medication tips
If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.
We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.
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What level of fitness do I need for this trip?
There are no difficult hikes or strenuous activities on this adventure, however there will are some walking and cycling tour. If you’re not comfortable riding a bicycle, it’s possible to ride in a cycle rickshaw instead.
The ghats in Varanasi involve going up and down steps. Getting in and out of the boats can also be tricky but our Pack Leader and local guides will be on hand to assist you.
We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.
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What should I wear to visit a temple?
India is a spiritual country with a great number of sacred places. It’s customary to remove footwear before entering a temple, as a sign of humility and respect. You should also dress modestly in trousers or skirts (no shorts) and carry a spare shawl to cover bare shoulders. In Sikh temples, both men and women are required to cover their head.
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What time is sunrise at the Taj Mahal?
Sunrise at the Taj Mahal varies throughout the year. It can be as early as 05:00 in June and the gates open 30 minutes beforehand. In December and January, mornings can be foggy and the sun doesn’t appear until lunchtime. Whatever time of year you visit, we’ll adapt the timing of your trip so you can witness this iconic experience.
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Will I definitely see a tiger?
As with anything in nature, nothing is guaranteed and it is completely down to chance. However, Ranthambhore National Park is one of the best places in the world to see wild tigers in the their natural environment, with around a 70 per cent chance of sightings. The tiger population here is now around 90, with lots of new cubs born in the last year, showing that conservation efforts are working.
Keep a look out for the park’s other wildlife too, including 300 species of bird (including eagles, hornbills, flamingos, flycatchers and pelicans), leopards, hyenas, caracals, crocodiles, wild boar, bears, samba, spotted deer and barking deer.
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Will the itinerary change?
Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.
