India Trip Planning | Getting around India

India is a sizeable country, with large distances to be covered between tourist destinations. From the snowy peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the warm, sandy beaches of Kerala in the south, visitors often travel significant distances within the country. With a well developed transport network, there are various options for you to choose from.

&Beyond India is able to book any of these options for you as part of your itinerary.

A number of domestic airlines, as well as air charter companies, operate within India. A network of frequent flights connects most cities within India, even in the more remote regions.

The recommended check-in time for domestic flights is an hour before departure.

The usual baggage allowance is 20 kg (45 lb) in economy class (10 kg or 20 lb in smaller planes) and 30 kg (65 lb) in business class.

Although bus services are fast and frequent, road conditions are rough and many travellers prefer trains for long distance journeys. Bumpy, potholed roads often result in much rattling and shaking, and driver skill is variable.

Earplugs are often necessary to muffle the deafening music played on the bus.

Self-drive car rental is not a popular option in India, not only because of the challenging driving conditions, but also because it is so affordable to hire a car with a driver. This type of road travel is one of the best ways to explore the country, with comfortable, air conditioned vehicles readily available.

&Beyond India hires professional, knowledgeable drivers whose local expertise allows them to double as guides. Travelling by car allows guests to stop wherever and whenever they want, often enjoying a number of fascinating tours or excursions en route to their final destination.

India has long enjoyed a love affair with the railway. Enthusiastically adopted by the maharajas of old, and developed and extended during the British Raj, its train network is one of the world’s most extensive. With its chaotic railway stations thronged with bustling travellers, the spicy aromas of the dozens of exotic snacks sold wafting through the air and the cries of the chai-wallahs bearing warm, refreshing beverages, a journey on an Indian train is an experience all in itself. From busy day trains to luxurious private carriages that follow a carefully set itinerary, there is a wide selection of options to choose from.

While a trip in a simple air conditioned carriage is enough to provide a memorable experience, a journey on one of India’s luxury trains is a glimpse into a fairytale world where the romance of rail is alive and well. Sumptuously decorated carriages with ornate dining cars and the ultimate in pampering and elegance make guests feel as though they have stepped back in time to a long-ago era. Itineraries on board the luxury trains usually include mouth watering meals and planned excursions to selected attractions along the route.

While it’s often simplest to retain a hired car for getting around in India’s bustling cities, there are plenty of other options. Most towns have taxis, with many airports and train stations offering a pre-paid taxi service that allows travellers to book a taxi for a fixed price. Urban buses also run in the towns, but are often uncomfortable and inconvenient. More unconventional methods of transport include autorickshaws (also known as riks or tuk-tuks) – three-wheeled motorised contraptions with a tin or canvas roof and sides. Their non-motorised counterparts, the cycle-rickshaws, consist of a pedal cycle with two rear wheels that support a bench seat. More rural towns may still boast the horse-drawn carriages known as victories or their two-wheeled counterparts, the tongas.

AndBeyond India chauffeur-driven service

&Beyond’s large fleet of well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles, as well as our experienced and professional drivers, provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel throughout India. Our friendly and reliable service begins the minute that you arrive and receive a warm welcome at the airport. Simply step into a comfortable, chauffeur-driven vehicle that will whisk you off to your hotel. The vehicle will be available to take you on sightseeing excursions or shopping trips at your convenience, and can be used to travel throughout India by road. Should you prefer to travel by airplane or rail, we will ensure that one of our drivers is waiting for you at the airport or railway station as you arrive at your destination.