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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Northeast States, India

Essential Preparations

A structured approach to your preparations.

Planning Timeline

Steps to take for a smooth journey.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Obtain or renew your passport, ensuring six months validity. Apply for your Indian Visa.

Flights

Research and book international and domestic flights to Dimapur (DMU). Early booking often delivers better prices.

Accommodation High Season

Book your accommodation, especially for peak season or Hornbill Festival, as popular places fill quickly.

2

-2 Months Before

Inner Line Permit ILP

If an Indian citizen, apply for your ILP through the Nagaland Police website. Foreigners will register with FRO upon arrival.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellation. Consider World Nomads.

Gear Acquisition

Buy necessary gear, like a Waterproof Jacket, Hiking Boots, and a Portable Water Filter.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, and tour bookings for accuracy.

Medications & First Aid

Arrange all prescription medications with adequate supply. Prepare a comprehensive first aid kit.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent your credit/debit cards from flagging for suspicious activity.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights to and from Nagaland.
  • Hotels or homestays, especially if traveling during peak season or festivals.
  • Train tickets if you plan to travel by rail within India.
  • Guided tours or treks, notably for destinations like Dzoukou Valley or Mon District.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain insight before your trip for a richer experience.

Areas of Study

  • Read about Naga culture, history, and the diversity of its tribal communities.
  • Understand the political and social context of the region, including local advisories.
  • Familiarize yourself with local etiquette and customs for respectful interactions.
  • Check current travel advisories specific to the region.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Practical steps to secure your home while you travel.

Inform Contacts

  • Inform trusted friends or family of your itinerary.
  • Provide them with emergency contacts.
  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care if you have pets.

Secure Your Home

  • Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
  • Consider notifying a neighbor or security service.
  • Use timers for lights to create an occupied appearance.
  • Turn off unnecessary water supply to prevent leaks.

Digital & Document Prep

  • Charge all electronic devices and power banks fully.
  • Save digital copies of all important documents to cloud storage.
  • Print physical copies of essential bookings and permits.
  • Withdraw some local currency or arrange for foreign currency exchange.

Important Pre-Departure Note

Double-check visa and permit requirements specific to your nationality before traveling. Rules can change.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Nagaland set the tone for your trip. Be prepared for arrival procedures.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Present your passport and visa (or e-Visa printout) to immigration officers. Biometrics are typically collected.

  • 2
    Baggage:

    Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Currency Exchange:

    Exchange some foreign currency at authorized centers or withdraw local currency from an ATM.

Orientation & Transfers

  • SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Airtel, Jio) at the airport or a reliable store. Have required documents (passport copy, photo).

  • FRO Registration (Foreigners):

    Register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district within 24 hours. Your hotel may assist.

  • Transportation from Entry Point:

    Use prepaid taxis or shared Sumos from Dimapur Airport/Railway Station to your accommodation.

Orientation Strategies

Local Maps

Acquire a local map if available, or rely on your downloaded offline Google Maps for navigation, especially where connectivity is limited.

Digital maps may not load in all remote areas.

Landmark Identification

Locate landmarks relative to your accommodation: the main market, transport hubs (shared taxi stands), and any nearby attractions.

This helps in independent exploration.

Local Assistance

Ask your hotel or homestay staff for local directions, tips, and recommendations. They serve as an invaluable source of current, practical information.

Their insights are often superior to online sources.

First Day Essentials

Prioritize FRO registration for foreigners and securing local connectivity. These steps ease your initial experience.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure thoughtfully to ensure a smooth and timely exit.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance of your departure. This bypasses last-minute rushes.
  • If you ship items home, arrange with a local courier service from Dimapur or Kohima.
  • Inquire about international shipping services and timelines.
  • Ensure any items you ship or carry comply with your home country's customs regulations.

Pre-Departure Timing & VAT

  • Allow ample travel time to Dimapur Airport or Railway Station, especially from Kohima.
  • Arrive at Dimapur Airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled domestic flight departure.
  • India does not feature a comprehensive VAT refund scheme for tourists on general purchases.
  • Do not expect to claim tax refunds on items bought.

Important Document Checks

Ensure all your documents are in order for a smooth exit.

Checklist

  • Confirm flight, train, or bus details well in advance.CHECK
  • Double-check departure times and terminal information.CHECK
  • Recheck luggage weight limits for your flight.CHECK
  • Keep essential documents (passport, boarding passes) accessible.CHECK

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your flight, train, or bus details well in advance.
  • Double-check departure times and terminal information to avoid delays.
  • Recheck your luggage weight limits for your flight to bypass excess baggage fees.
  • Keep essential documents (passport, boarding passes) accessible for easy retrieval.

Smooth Departure Tip

Confirm all travel details and pack smartly for a relaxed journey home.

A prepared traveler enjoys a seamless departure.