Visa Requirements for Traveling to India

Visa Requirements for Traveling to India: How to Obtain the Correct Documentation

by Rishikesh

Do you have any planning to go for a trip to India this season? While you plan for the packing, you should also opt for a Visa for India for the purpose. A number of visas are there when if comes to travelling in India. These visas are offered by the Government of India. Different types and kinds of tourists can opt for these visas. So in case you are going to travel to India, the following details about India Is essential for you to know. This guide will talk in detail about Indian tourist visa.

Who needs Indian Visa?

Not everyone out of India would need a visa to visit the country. Tourists from Bhutan and Nepal don’t require a visa to enter the country. Maldives citizens enter India without passport and are there for a stay of 90 days. But if they were visiting from Mainland China, then they would need proper visa.

Transit visas are required for a stay of less than seventy two hours in India. Transit visas can be applied for with a airline ticket confirmed for leaving India within the stipulated time. In case one does not have a confirmed ticket, he would be asked to take an Indian tourist visa. So if you wish to travel to India for a luxurious trip or a sedentary retreat to a Gurukul Yogashala, you will need to know it all about getting the Indian Visa.

What kind of visa do you need to explore India?

There are quite a few types of visa applications like student visa, intern visa, employment visa, journalist visa etc. In case you are opting for tourism visits, opt for tourist visa. This tourist visa can be taken for any time varying from 60 days to 10 years. But no matter how long duration the tourist visa runs, you are restricted to stay for 90 days and more in India in a go. There should be two months gap at least between two visits on a tourist visa, even if you are visiting two different regions in India.

Cost of Indian tourist visa

Visa application fee varies based on the country of your citizenship. From 2017, US citizens pay $100 for 10 years tourist visa. Mongolia and Japan citizens pay much less for the visa compared to other countries. Tourists from Maldives, South Africa, Bangladesh, Jamaica, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Afghanistan, Mauritius, Uruguay, Seychelles and others don’t have to pay fee to get a tourist visa to India. However, the visa processing fee will be appropriate for all those countries.

Process for applying for Indian Visa

The application process for an Indian visa is outsourced to private agencies in most countries. License of many foreign country agencies have been reclaimed by the Indian government, and it has replaced them with Indian companies. Therefore, ask for the license number ensuring that you are then dealing with a proper educated person. The Indian visa application begins with the online form. Added to the cost of the visa and a processing fee, you need to send in a few documents.

Apply Online for Indian Visa

All the documents you would need to get the Indian Tourist Visa

i) You should have the original passport that should have 6 months of validity at least. The passport should also have 2 blank pages at least)

ii) Along with that you will also need a passport size photograph or your present self.

iii) You should have all the tour details. This is also an essential part.

iv) You should show your flight ticket copies as well. This is important for certain countries.

v) Your residential proof should also be presented here. (you can should your own residence or your relative residential proof there.)

Now, submit these documents to visa processing agencies. You need to submit your original passport and copies of other documents. The visa stamping then gets mailed to the address mentioned in your passport.

How long will it take for visa stamping?

How long can one wait to receive one’s passport with visa stamping? Normally, the agencies will ask you to wait for 15 working days with a weekend and government holidays excluded to receive the visa. But the actual time varies from country to country. Indian Mission will take at least 3 days to process your visa in general.

What is the process for PAP apply in India?

The permit can be applied for through the Indian missions in the respective countries you live in. Each of the regions has its own limitations and fee for providing PAP. Normally, tourists are allowed only in a group of at least four. For applying PAP, you need to travel with a travel agent registered with the government. Normally, the PAP is provided for 10 days and can be extended for 7 days.

Citizens of Pakistan, China, Myanmar or Bangladesh are eligible to apply for a PAP, subject to prior clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Citizens of Indian origin who hold a foreign passport must also apply for a PAP.

What is e-Visa of India?

In a number of countries, the e-Visa is replacing the conventional forms of Visa for India. One can easily apply for ‘Electronic Travel Authorization’ on the online site. You will get an approval mail or you would have a PDF with required details. Take its copy and you can then get the visa stamping post entry, at the Indian airport. This stamping stays valid for sixty days and gets approved for a total of three entries. It is also available to applicants who travel to India on a cruise ship. The e-Visa costs 102.50USD (It can vary with time and in different countries).

What is the Eligibility for the Indian e-Visa

i) These e-visas are offered to those tourists who about to visit India on the purpose of tour or any medical requirement or any short business or family visits. The individual should clearly mention the purpose.

ii) Their passports must have 6 months validity along with 2 blank pages.

iii) Also you should show the return ticket copies that will clear out your complete duration, from arrival to departure. All of these details should be mentioned.

iv) You should file for separate 

Essential Documents Required for the e-visa filing

i) You should produce the scan copy of the passport (specially the first and the last page)

ii) Also you need to produce a passport size photograph

Post India arrival documents

i) You should show the printed e-visa copy.

ii) Also you need to show the passport. Also your passport size photograph should be there.

iii) For your entire stay you need to have medical insurance. This you need to show as well.

What is the Process for the US Citizen to take Indian Visa?

To begin, you would need a valid passport. Make a photocopy of the first and last page of the passport. Passport shall be valid for at least six months with two blank pages. Download the Indian visa application and fill the details in it. The signature in the Visa for India application should match with the passport. This online application is there in the site of the Indian government.

You will require one passport size photo. It should have a white background. Also the applicant should not be wearing glasses in the face in the photo. Staple the photo to the form. Take the form to the visa service agencies. You need to submit the form and your original passport. You will get your passport with a visa stamping to the address in the passport via post.

Can I get on-arrival Indian visa?

You can even get visa stamping post India visit, if you are a certain country citizen. You only need your passport, flight tickets, photo, and any special documents. Those who plan to choose Visa on Arrival have to make an online application at least four days before the travel date. You will then upload required documents and pay the fee, which is non-refundable. Post arrival at India, all your biometric details mentioned in the passport about the passport holder shall be captured and Visa for India approved.

VOA facility is available only at Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad international airports. VOA can be availed only for 30 days. However, for S. Korea citizens, VOA will be given for 60 days.

Indian tourist visa Rejection Issues

There are a number of reasons why your visa can be rejected by the immigration authorities

i) If you have any information missing or not found or wrong then the visa gets rejected.

ii) If you fail to produce any document then also you can face issues of visa rejection.

iii) If the number of pages in the passport is lower than 2 then also visa can be rejected.

Travel tips for Indian Vacation

a) You can always choose iconic attractions if you’re visiting India for the first time. It’s always safer to choose all the reputed destinations, along with high-class hotels, and pre-booked transport options. Iconic tour packages make your first visit to India memorable, and experience the luxury train tour in India.

b) A box of tissue papers and water bottles with hand sanitizers are musts for you when you travel to India.

c) You should mention your food choices to the waiter when you don’t prefer spicy food.

d) Haggling is important when it comes to shopping in India

e) Even if you are an atheist, visit the temple to enjoy the architectural beauty; never speak ill or disturb the sanctum. Be polite. 

f) At once taking public transportation is important in India is important for your experience. 

How to reach delhi to rishikesh

The Delhi to Rishikesh Tour and More: All That You Need to Know

by Rishikesh

The appeal of Rishikesh is known to all Indian travelers. For ages the place has been visited by tourists coming from different parts of the country. Other than that, Rishikesh is also a frequent place of visit by the foreign tourists as well as it is very well known as the Yoga Capital of the World. But the adventure lovers know the place mostly because of its option for white water rafting. Therefore, at present, Rishikesh has become the center for a wide array of activities. As it is a pilgrimage town, Rishikesh welcomes millions of pilgrims from the country and abroad. They arrive at this place and takes the holy dip at the River Ganges here to wash away the sins of the past. Other than that, there are a number of beautiful places in Rishikesh that worth a visit. If you are a resident of Delhi and planning to reach Rishikesh, then here are the options for How to reach delhi to rishikesh!

Why Visiting Rishikesh is a Must for Tourists

Set against the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the Ganges River, Rishikesh is a calm and spiritual place that draws the attention of every traveler all over the world. Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and respected for its holy value, Rishikesh promises a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual upliftment, making it an enchanting destination for visitors worldwide.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance:

Spiritually, Rishikesh is a very important pilgrimage place for Indians. Many ashrams, temples, and meditation centers attract spiritual seekers in the search for an inner self and enlightenment. Devotees come to dip into the sacred water of Ganges, believed to wash out all the sins and bless the soul. Famous for its various spiritual leaders and gurus, the spiritual aura is enhanced here, and it gives seekers the opportunity to learn and be a part of the ancient wisdom of yoga, meditation, and Vedanta.

Yoga Capital of the World:

Rishikesh has gained worldwide recognition as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” attracting yoga practitioners and enthusiasts from all over the world. The city’s calm environment and beautiful surroundings provide just the right backdrop to practice yoga and meditation. Many yoga schools and ashrams conduct different courses like yoga teacher training programs and yoga retreats for all levels of practitioners. Be it a beginner who wants to get an insight into the basics of yoga or an advanced yogi looking to delve deeper into yogic disciplines. Gurukul Yogashala would suit all kinds of individual preferences and requirements. In fact so many pilgrims and foreigners visit this highly regarded yoga retreat each year. You can also me a part of it.

Adventure Hub:

Always remember that Rishikesh is the real destination for different adventures. A number of activities are done here, like trekking, bungee jumping, white water rafting, rock climbing etc. For rafting this is a very special place as the water of the river Ganges is quite fast moving here and the raft goes through the jungles and hills. You can also camp in this places and have a really adventurous time spent. Other than that you can also experience the Mohan Chatti Bridge bungee jump and cliff jumping which you can do over the waterfalls. No wonder than for the adventure lovers, this is a special place.

Scenic Beauty and Tranquil Environment:

Rishikesh is surrounded by greenery, lofty mountains, and the gentle flow of the Ganges River. It is so beautiful, with its charming sceneries and peaceful riverbanks, creating a perfect time for sunset that calms the soul. Scenic landscapes and the peaceful ambiance of this city create a perfect getaway from noisy cities. It, therefore, reconnects with nature and offers peace within its silent surroundings. This place perfectly meets the best conditions for relaxation and rejuvenation through yoga practice by the river, meditation amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, or the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Rich Cultural Heritage:

In Rishikesh, there exists a brilliant cultural heritage confluence interwoven with ancient traditions and customs of India. Its historic temples, sanctified ghats, and colorful markets provide a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry. The evening Ganga Aarti, where devotees gather on the banks of the river to offer their prayers and witness the spectacular view of lamps illuminated on the water’s surface, is an enigmatic cultural spectacle testifying to the city’s spiritual enthusiasm and cultural vibrancy.

Healing and Wellness Retreats:

The spiritual and adventurous tourism in Rishikesh also houses healing and wellness retreats that will help the individual rejuvenate into the lap of holistic well-being. Ayurvedic spas, centers for naturopathy, and wellness resorts are all there across the cityscape, offering visitors a plethora of traditional healing therapies, detox programs, and holistic wellness treatments to bring forth physical, mental, and emotional health. From Ayurvedic massages and yoga therapy sessions to detoxifying cleanses and meditation retreats, Rishikesh provides a platform to rejuvenate one’s mind, body, and spirit in the healing energies of nature.

Vibrant Cultural Events and Festivals:

Gleeful cultural events and festivals light up Rishikesh throughout the year, which embody its spiritual heritage and cultural variety. From the colorful festivities of the International Yoga Festival and the sacred rituals of Mahashivratri to the vibrant celebrations of Diwali and the traditional music and dance performances of the Rishikesh Yoga and Cultural Festival, the city has so much to offer that showcases its colorful spirit and cultural richness. These events offer visitors the possibility to become part of the local culture, to connect with the locals, and become a part of age-old traditions passed down through generations.

Things to Do in Rishikesh

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is pretty beautiful because of its architectural wonders, scenic waterfalls, deep woods, yoga ashrams, and magnificent temples in Rishikesh such as Trimbakeshwar Temple, Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple, and Bharat Mandir make it a pretty liked religious destination for Hindus.

If you are an enthusiast for yoga, visit one of the numerous Gurukul Yogashala that are situated close to the Ganges River. Join a yoga retreat to help purify your body, mind, and spirit! Get an Ayurvedic massage here, lest we forget. The other important places to see in Rishikesh include Astha Path, Gita Bhavan, Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and Triveni Ghat. You can also choose to be at a yoga retreat and spend your time up there.

Rafting the River

The white water rafting activity is one of the best and most liked activities in Rishikesh. You will not feel that you have completed your vacation if you miss it. The thrill is there for sure when wave after wave touches your boat!

Leaping Bungee

What about a heart-pounding, almost eighty-meter-above leap where you fall freely and safely, of course? It feels a little freeing.

Riding in the Mountains

Its mountain biking, which requires endurance. It is an adventure like no other to travel those tough terrains with Mother Nature as your companion. You can simply rent a bike in Rishikesh and go for as long as you want since there are so many bike businesses in the area. Bike your way up to this amazing adventure!

How to Reach to Rishikesh from Delhi

How to Travel by Bus from Delhi to Rishikesh

So wondering How to reach delhi to rishikesh? Here’s the good news, a few dozen buses ply the distance between Delhi and Rishikesh daily. They operate round the clock. Taking a morning bus and reaching Rishikesh by nightfall makes sense, though the travel time is around six hours. If that is not possible, a late night bus leaving at 11 or 12 midnight should suffice to get you to 5 am. Kashmere Gate in Delhi is the bus boarding point. It is the hub for government as well as private buses. Buses run by Himachal Roadways are in three varieties: Volvo, semi-deluxe, and ordinary. Note also that the cost of the bus ticket from Delhi to Rishikesh varies; hence, for the latest information, log on to.

How to Take a Train from Delhi to Rishikesh

There is also rail service between Delhi and Rishikesh. There are roughly six trains between these two cities daily. The time taken by the train is approximately 6 to 7 hours and usually covers a total distance of about 250 km between Delhi and Rishikesh. For the latest train ticket rates from Delhi to Rishikesh, log on to the website of Indian Railways or click some of the Internet portals.

How to Take a Flight from Delhi to Rishikesh

Rishikesh does not have a public airport, but you can fly from Delhi to reach here. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, and it is about 35 kilometers away from Rishikesh. You can hire a cab or taxi and reach here within an hour or less from the airport. You can book your flight from Delhi to Rishikesh on the website of any airline or through any online travel agency. The cost of flights from Delhi to Rishikesh will vary, depending on whether you are traveling during peak or low season, availability of prices, and how far in advance you book them. Or you can fly into the capital city and then travel onwards to Rishikesh by bus or cab.

The Ideal Time to Go to Rishikesh

As Rishikesh is located on the Himalayan foothills, the weather here is great and continental. So the right time to visit would be any time throughout the year. During the winter the temperature goes down to 8°C. In summer the maximum temperature stays within 35°C. So it is you who needs to decide what kind of holiday you wish to spend and according to that you can choose the right season for your visit. However, if you are looking for the best time, then you need to choose the months of September to November. This is the time for all the adventures. For the relaxing couple or family tours however, the months would be February and April.

6

Rishikesh Culinary Adventure – Explore The Top 7 Vegan-Friendly Restaurants In Town

by Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a place which has achieved prominence in the last two decades, worldwide, owing to its inherent connection with yoga and holistic sciences. Rishikesh is located close to the religious city of Haridwar, which makes it more significant in the journey of spirituality. However, what many people don’t know is that the culinary landscape of the place is as exciting. It reflects the diverse traditions and cultures of the different communities living there, as well as in nearby Himalayan regions. 

Garhwali cuisine is the point of discussion to begin with. The cuisine offers a tantalizing mix of flavours that are not only a treat for the palate but also reflects the region’s unique heritage. The Garhwal region, which is closely associated with agriculture, has long been self-sustaining. The people in ancient times mainly relied on home-grown crops for their staple diet. Millets, barley, and other whole grains are still grown in different cliffs and crevices. The cuisine was shaped due to the necessity of the people, to be exact. If you are a yoga enthusiast or a gastronomic vegan food connoisseur, then you will find the place to be quite interesting. 

Schools like Gurukul Yogashala which conducts yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, still rely on age-old methods to procure and cook the food. The sattvic food that is given to students is vegan-friendly. This applies to both the participants of the retreat course and the teacher training course at the school.  As more and more people are abstaining from the consumption of animal produce, sattvic food seems to just match as a matter of fact. 

Let us delve into the intricacies of the food haven that Rishikesh is. 

The Lineage Of Garhwali Cuisine Of Rishikesh

Garhwali cuisine is mainly characterised by its simple nature and natural taste. Moreover, the nutritional value of the food is kept intact. If you are one of them, who love rustic flavours in your food, then this is the place to explore. However, there is something more that makes this cuisine so unique. You will find wholesome use of locally-sourced ingredients like finger millet, barnyard millet, and rice in various dishes in Rishikesh. The grains are nutritious and well-suited for the cool climate. The cuisine also includes leafy vegetables, legumes, and dairy products. Herbs and spices are also used in dozens, like oregano, black cumin, and fenugreek. 

The cuisine aims to highlight the food lineage from ancient times. And also, helps in digestion in high altitudes. You will find minimal usage of oils, spices and condiments, apart from the ones mentioned. You will often find the dishes cooked in mustard oil, which adds to the earthy flavours. Yoghurt and tamarind also lend a good health quotient to the dishes. Some of the popular Garhwali delicacies are daal, gahat, phaanu, kafuli, aloo ke gutke, and many more. While studying yoga in Rishikesh, you will get ample opportunity to explore this exciting cuisine. If you join a 200 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, you can also witness this beautiful food journey. 

Veganism – Rising Popularity All Over The World  

The plant-based and high-protein diet is gaining huge popularity worldwide. This trend has caught on in the West for some time now, due to its myriad health benefits, leading to the formation of a huge industry. However, the most fascinating fact is that it was always omni-present here in India. You do not have to spend your energy sourcing such foods in Rishikesh, as they are a staple. Veganism and yoga or for that matter, the holistic sciences have many things in common. If you delve into the Sutras, you will find ‘Ahimsa’ to be a part of it. At its very core, you are practicing non-violence. The philosophy aligns quite well with the concept of veganism. According to the spiritual guide as dictated by several sages and seers, a commitment to ‘Ahimsa’ can stop excess aggression and also keep one calm. 

If you are a student of any yoga teacher training course in India, then you can likely sync with this ideology. As many Westerners turn towards yoga, veganism also takes centre stage. The connection between diet choices and ‘Ahimsa’ becomes quite obvious here. You will be amazed to know, whether or not you are doing yoga that veganism comes with holistic benefits. It can curb the inner demons, which are so rampant in Western culture. Looking at the shooting number of crime scenarios across the globe, veganism seems to be one of the ways to suppress the animal within you. Apart from the holistic side, veganism also helps curb many lifestyle diseases. When you choose to opt for a plant-based diet, you are also shutting down certain industries like cow slaughter. Revered as the carrier vehicle of Lord Shiva, who incorporated yoga into our lives, it is definitely a great move. 

So, having said all of that, if you are someone who is in search of happiness, you should embark on an explorative journey of India, particularly Rishikesh. Seek relaxation in the high altitudes, while making yoga a part of your life for greater benefits in today’s mad rush.

In the meanwhile we have jotted down the names of some of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in town. If you happen to come down, this will assist you to make informed food choices. 

Top 7 Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Town 

  • TATTV Café – This is one of the most popular cafes in Rishikesh, with indoor dining options. There are several categories like Lactose-intolerant, Italian, Western, and European cuisines with a vegan touch. 
  • Beatles Café – The Beatles definitely left a strong impression on Rishikesh, in the form of the Beatles Ashram. But, who would have thought that someone might just come up with a café with the same name? Also called 60’s Cafe Delmar, This is a rock music- themed restaurant. You can order a variety of protein pancakes and vegan pizzas at this wonderful place. 
  • The Arches – This is another vegan restaurant that offers gluten-free and wheat-free items as well. Moreover, 80% of the food at this restaurant is fat-free. So, that is an added bonus for the yogis. You will be amazed to see their menu card, which is simply extensive. 
  • Secret Garden Café – This is yet another place, you should never miss. This restaurant serves it all, from vegan-friendly to gluten-free food options. You will get the view of a jungle, while having your meal there. 
  • The Juice House – This is a juice bar and café, located on the road that leads to Parmarth Niketan Ashram. You can lay your hands on smoothies, juices, and herbal concoctions aplenty at the café.  
  • Free Spirit Café – Vegan-friendly, lactose-intolerant, International, you name it and this one has them all. Gorge on the freshest food items here. 
  • Cookie Lady – This is supposed to have opened first in Rishikesh, sometime in 2018. The place offers breakfast, and high tea as well. The milk-based items are mainly made of soya milk, almond milk, and oat milk.

Conclusion 

This list can go a bit longer, as more cafes and restaurants are coming up. If you enrol for a yoga teacher training course at Gurukul Yogashala, the best yoga school in India, and the traditional one in Rishikesh, there are surprises there too. The school serves vegan-friendly food as a part of its Sattvic regime for students and staff. Moreover, if any student is allergic to any food stuff, the school takes care of that as well.  So, unless you are in the mood for some exploration, you can stay on campus and enjoy delicious, vegan food with your classmates and teachers.