An essential information to remember in India: do not be in a hurry. You will have to take your time and not be able to see the whole country in three weeks. Look at distances and traffic differently, with patience and a smile. Often the traveller will be surprised from his first minutes in India by the chaotic traffic and the constant excitement on Indian roads. They are like a theatre stage where the actors are obstacles of all kinds. First, holes, cows, carts, trucks, vehicles going against the grain, pedestrians appearing out of nowhere, herds ... and so many others !!
The virtual absence of traffic rules makes driving quite difficult for beginners, especially since in India you drive on the left. The horns are not so untimely, they are necessary to report his vehicle to others. The strongest and most imposing takes priority of course! Today new roads (expressways) link the various major cities of the country. Major infrastructure projects from the new government are underway. The concepts of safety are also gradually arriving, passengers on two wheels now wear a helmet that has become mandatory recently.
These motorized tricycles, nicknamed "tuk tuk" in the rest of Asia, are used as taxis. They are part of the Indian landscape and are present over almost the entire territory. Embark on-board one of these unusual machines, perfect for a city visit or for short trips. You will have to learn the joys of bargaining despite fixed price meters. A few lies, a little scam, take these experiences with humour, like a game. Rickshaw drivers will tell you they know their way without really being honest. Remember to know your destination address well to ask passers-by for help if necessary. If you learn a few words of Hindi you can build trust with your driver.
Beyond its primary utility as a means of transportation, the train is an experience not to be missed in India. There are several reasons that will make you want to take a train trip to India. To save time when traveling long distances, sleep in a bunk for a night! Your budget is a bit tight, the train is one of the cheapest solutions to travel in India. There are several classes to choose from depending on the comfort needs of each traveller. Opt for the "sleeper class", a real micro-company where all the generations merge. The cellar sellers go back and forth in the aisles, Indian families will chat with you, all in an ultra-relaxed atmosphere where the compartments are open to the four winds. One thing is certain: places are quickly taken over and it is difficult to secure a place at the last minute! There luxury trains in India, which offer you a selected itinerary of 7 to 12 days and is a visual to treat to anyone. The luxury offered on board in unmatched and uncompromised, truly the finest.
Traveling around part of India on foot remains one of the most rewarding experiences. Walking allows you to take your time and discover a territory differently. Contrary to popular belief, trekking is not only practiced in the Himalayas. Apart from the magnificent routes in Ladakh or Sikkim, it is possible to indulge in the joys of hiking in many Indian regions. In Rajasthan, discover the amazing wildlife of this wild region. In southern India roam the Western Ghats. Departing from Munnar tea plantations, you can travel several days to neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Finally, the North-East of India is full of trekking circuits off the beaten track in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.
Going on a horseback riding tour in India is a dream! Imagine yourself in the land of the Maharajas, riding the Aravalli Mountains on magnificent Marwari horses, the finest horse breed in India. On horseback, you understand the country differently, go where no one goes, and meet rural India, close to people and nature. Dream islands are also great for exercise, such as Indonesia or Sri Lanka. Finally, the great steppes of Mongolia remain in the collective imagination a land of predilection for horseback riding. Over several days, escape for a ride full of adventures and encounters.
Traveling by boat is often synonymous with cruises and relaxation and offers a completely different way of discovering a place through water ways. As diverse and varied as the country, boat trips are all different from North to South India. A cruise that takes the original experience is to descend the Ganges over several days. You pass through the small villages of Uttar Pradesh, admire the sacred river and its deserted beaches or contemplate the freshwater dolphins. Then you enter by boat in the holy city of Varanasi for an incredible spectacle. A more exotic cruise awaits you in Kerala, in the famous backwaters. On board very comfortable "houseboat" you navigate the daily life that awakens around you. You can also travel by boat to the northeaster regions.