Getting around in India: Expert Advice by Shanti Travel
For those considering travel to India, understanding how to get around this vast country is an adventure in itself. With over 20 years of experience guiding travelers across the subcontinent, we believe navigating the dynamic world of Indian transport is an integral part of your journey—full of surprises, challenges, and rewarding discoveries.
Indian roads and traffic: An unforgettable memory
In India, the rhythm of life is reflected in the traffic: vibrant, unpredictable, and always in motion. The first advice is simple but essential—patience is your greatest ally. The traffic may appear overwhelming, with a blend of cars, trucks, auto-rickshaws, cows, carts, pedestrians, and even the occasional donkey all vying for space. Roads often feature potholes, unpredictable detours, and a free-form logic that is best met with flexibility and good humor. Don't aim to cover too much ground in a single trip; distances can be deceptive, and the journey is often as memorable as the destination itself.
Key Practical Tips:
- Drive on the left: and be alert, as the absence of strictly enforced traffic rules means that the largest vehicle usually takes priority.
- Horns are essential: not an annoyance—used to communicate presence.
- Travel during daylight: Night travel in remote or rural areas is not recommended due to reduced road safety and poor lighting.
- Buses: are widely used by locals across cities and villages, ranging from basic government services to comfortable private options. For long distances or overnight journeys, book luxury or sleeper buses online, and avoid back seats for a less bumpy ride.
- Domestic flights connect major cities and many regional hubs efficiently. Advance booking yields the best prices and allows you to avoid the unpredictability of ground transport for long distances.
Remain vigilant for pickpockets in crowded places and be cautious about your belongings on trains and buses. Avoid overloaded ferries or boats and always use a reputable operator.
The rickshaw: The hero of local rides
Auto-rickshaws—known elsewhere as tuk-tuks—are as Indian as chai and cricket. They weave through traffic and narrow lanes inaccessible to larger vehicles, making them ideal for short city hops or adventurous market visits. Here’s how to use them wisely:
- Negotiate or use the meter: Always agree on a fare before setting off, or insist on meter use in cities where it’s standard. Prices near touristic sites can be inflated—start your bargaining well below the first quote.
- Embrace the experience: Expect skillful, sometimes hair-raising maneuvers through traffic. Enjoy the spectacle; it’s part of daily Indian life.
- Beware of common scams: Decline suggestions for unsolicited shopping stops or extended detours, and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Use ride-hailing apps: In metro cities, apps like Ola and Uber offer e-rickshaw and auto options with upfront pricing and tracking, perfect for those wanting a trouble-free journey.
- Travel short distances only: Rickshaws are best for journeys under 5 km—take taxis or the metro for longer distances.
The trains: The great Indian railway adventure
Train travel is more than transportation—it's a window into India itself. Booking tickets can be an adventure, so:
- Book early: Major routes sell out weeks in advance, so reserve through the official IRCTC website or at specialized tourist booking counters. The Foreign Tourist Quota offers help with popular sectors, and the Indrail Pass is ideal for those planning extensive travel.
- Choose your class: Air-conditioned classes (1A, 2A, 3A) provide comfort; Sleeper Class (SL) offers a budget-friendly, immersive experience. General class is not recommended for first-time foreign travelers due to overcrowding.
- Pack with care: Keep tickets and passports handy. Secure valuables with a small chain and lock them to your berth. Carry some food, hand sanitizer, and toilet supplies for longer trips.
- Women travelers: Prefer upper berths for privacy, dress modestly, and avoid changing clothes on the train. Don’t hesitate to request seat changes in case of discomfort or unsafe situations.
- Expect delays: Trains are seldom punctual to the minute; a relaxed attitude helps you appreciate the journey.
- Enjoy the camaraderie: Polite conversation is common, but always trust your instincts and set boundaries as needed.
- Try premier trains: Express services like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Tejas are faster, include meals, and are favored for their reliability and safety.
Unique local transport: Embracing diversity
India’s local transport is wonderfully varied and region-specific. Travelers looking for a quintessential experience should consider:
- Cycle rickshaws (Varanasi, Old Delhi): Human-powered, eco-friendly, perfect for exploring narrow lanes. Always set a price before departure.
- E-rickshaws (Totos): Found increasingly in Kolkata and Northeast India, these battery-operated vehicles are a quieter and cleaner alternative for short, shared rides.
- Shared jeeps (Himalayan regions): Essential for high-altitude travel where buses don’t go. Pay by the seat, but expect cramped conditions.
- Ferries and houseboats (Kerala, Goa, Bengal): Explore rivers and backwaters the traditional way; stick with government-run or reputable private services for safety.
India opens up in a new way when you slow down and take to its paths.
- Trekking is diverse: From Ladakh to the Western Ghats or the wild Northeast, India’s hiking is not confined to the Himalayas.
- Certified guides and permits: Many treks, especially through forests or high altitudes, legally require a certified guide and official permits—your safety, and support for responsible tourism, depend on it.
- Wildlife awareness: Stick to marked trails, don’t feed or approach animals, and set up camp away from animal trails or water sources.
- Respect local customs and eco-ethics: Always leave no trace, share limited space with good humor, and defer to local expertise about the land and weather.
- Insurance and emergency protocols: Carry reliable insurance, inform someone of your planned route, and prepare for zero mobile coverage in remote zones.
On horseback: Evoking history and legend
A horseback journey, especially in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Mountains atop the famed Marwari breed, gets you off the well-trodden path and close to India’s rural soul. Safety-wise, opt for reputable stables and guides, and ensure you’re provided with appropriate riding gear. In India, unlike in other famous horse-riding destinations, it’s all about immersion in local tradition—take time to meet your hosts and respect riding customs unique to each region.
Why not a boat?
India’s waterways offer a serene counterpoint to the country’s busy roads. Houseboats in Kerala’s backwaters provide luxury and a glimpse into riverside life, while Ganges cruises reveal a timeless rural landscape. Always check the boat’s safety measures and avoid sailing during heavy rains or monsoons. Ferry connections are also a safe way to venture between islands or across rivers—just ensure the operator’s reliability first.
Final word from Shanti Travel:
Navigating India is a memorable adventure—one that rewards preparation, patience, and curiosity. Whether on rails, trails, wheels, or waterways, let your journey be as layered and lively as the country itself.
