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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Madhya Pradesh And Chhattisgarh, India

Essential Preparations

A well-organized trip starts here.

Planning Timeline

What to do before your journey.

1

Months Out

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6 months). Begin visa application early.

Health & Flights

Consult travel doctor for vaccinations. Book international flights.

Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

2

Month Out

Local Travel

Book domestic flights or train tickets.

Accommodation

Book Orchha accommodation, especially for high season.

Itinerary

Plan your preliminary itinerary, outlining attractions.

3

Week Out

Confirmations

Confirm all your bookings: flights, hotels, tours.

Finances & Tech

Inform bank of travel plans. Arrange currency. Download offline maps.

Essentials

Pack documents, universal adapter, Basic first aid kit.

Travel Documents

Secure your travel essentials.

Required Advance Bookings

  • International flights.
  • Domestic flights or train tickets, notably for popular routes.
  • Popular heritage hotels in Orchha, especially during peak season.
  • Advance reservations secure your plans.

In-Depth Research

Deepen your local familiarity.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

  • Read up on Orchha's history, the Bundela dynasty, and local culture.
  • Review travel advisories for India from your home country's government.
  • This enriches your appreciation of the sites you will visit.

Home Readiness

Preparing your home for your absence.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home: lock doors and windows.
  • Consider using timers for lights.
  • An alarm system offers added peace of mind.
  • Home security is paramount.

Pet & Mail Care

  • Arrange for pet care if you will be away.
  • Organize mail collection for extended periods.
  • Neighbor assistance can be a good option.
  • Animal well-being is main.

Financial Affairs

  • Pay any upcoming bills to avoid issues.
  • Set up automatic payments if possible.
  • Online banking helps management from afar.
  • Managing finances before departure prevents problems.

Preparation Tip

This also helps reduce stress.

Arrival Readiness

The first few hours upon reaching Orchha are important.

Initial Steps

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear procedures at your port of entry (e.g., Delhi Airport).

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect your baggage promptly.

  • 3
    Currency Exchange

    Exchange a small amount of local currency for immediate needs.

Connectivity & Transport

  • Local SIM Card

    Purchase and activate a local SIM card if not already done.

  • Transfers

    Locate your pre-booked transfer or arrange a taxi/auto-rickshaw.

  • Offline Maps

    Use offline maps for initial navigation and orientation.

Local Orientation

Map Orientation

Once at your accommodation, take time to orient yourself with a map of Orchha.

This helps locate nearby amenities and attractions.

Hotel Assistance

Ask your hotel staff for local recommendations, reliable transport options, and current safety tips.

They are a valuable resource for local details.

Initial Purchases

Prioritize getting local currency for small purchases.

Many local vendors and auto-rickshaws only accept cash.

Traveler Reminder

Pre-arranged transfers from Jhansi to Orchha make for a smoother arrival. Negotiate fares with auto-rickshaw drivers if no pre-booking.

Departure Planning

Readying for your return journey.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Purchase any remaining souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  • Inquire about shipping options from the vendor for large items.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for bringing back goods.
  • India does not have a general VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Return Trip Logistics

  • Reconfirm your return flights or train tickets.
  • Check your baggage allowance to avoid excess fees.
  • Pack smartly to accommodate any new purchases.
  • Ensure all important documents are easily accessible.

Timing Your Exit

Allocate sufficient travel time.

Departure Schedule

  • Travel to airport/train station:Ample time needed
  • Account for:Traffic or delays
  • International flights:3-4 hours prior
  • Domestic flights:2-3 hours prior

Return Journey Preparations

  • Reconfirm your return flights or train tickets.
  • Check baggage allowance to avoid excess fees.
  • Pack smartly to accommodate any new purchases.
  • Ensure all important documents are easily accessible.

Departure Reminder

Account for potential traffic or delays when traveling from Orchha to Jhansi or further to Gwalior/Khajuraho airports.

Arrive early for international flights (3-4 hours), domestic (2-3 hours), and trains (30-60 minutes).