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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Rajasthan, India

Essential Preparations

Advance planning minimizes trip-related stress.

Planning Timeline

Structured preparation for travel.

3M

Months Prior

Visa Application

Apply for Indian visa (e-Visa or regular). Passport valid for six months beyond departure, two blank pages. Vaccinations: medical professional consultation for immunizations.

Flight/Train Research

Book international and major domestic tickets, especially for peak season.

Health Checks

Consult a healthcare professional about necessary immunizations for India well in advance.

1M

Month Prior

Accommodation & Safaris

Book major accommodations, especially heritage properties or guesthouses inside the fort. Reserve desert safaris.

Travel Insurance

Acquire Comprehensive travel insurance (medical, cancellations, lost luggage).

Banking Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

1W

Week Prior

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all your flight, train, hotel, and tour bookings. Print or save digital copies.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps (Google Maps) and translation apps (Google Translate with Hindi pack) to your phone.

Currency Exchange

Acquire a small amount of Indian Rupees for immediate expenses upon arrival.

Necessary Reservations

Booking ahead for smooth arrangements.

Flight Bookings

  • Flights, especially direct to Jaisalmer (JSA).
  • Connecting flights from major international airports.
  • Major train journeys, specifically overnight or popular routes.
  • Popular hotels, especially heritage properties within the fort.

Home-Front Checklist

Preparations for your home before travel.

Home Safety

  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Arrange for mail collection or hold service.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and halting deliveries.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Knowledge preparation for a richer trip.

Cultural Insights

  • Basic Indian etiquette and cultural norms familiarity.
  • Knowledge of Jaisalmer's history and major attractions.
  • Review "Health & Safety Considerations" (Section 2.4).
  • Consult "Sustainable & Responsible Travel" (Section 12).

Accommodation Selection

  • Guesthouses inside the fort often have limited availability.
  • Organized desert safaris booking ahead, notably those including overnight camping.
  • Popular camps and tour slots fill quickly.
  • Advance booking generally creates peace of mind.

Booking Essentials

  • Train tickets, flights, accommodation, especially during peak season, require booking.
  • Major train journeys, specifically overnight or popular routes.
  • Popular heritage properties sell out quickly.
  • Preferred options secured, sometimes with favorable rates.

Important Planning Point

A comprehensive checklist aids in reducing pre-trip anxieties and forgotten items.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth start to your Jaisalmer adventure.

Initial Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs

    Have your passport, visa, and any required health documents ready.

  • 2
    Currency Exchange/ATM

    Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport or withdraw cash from an ATM for immediate expenses.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card

    Acquire a local SIM card (Airtel, Jio, or Vodafone Idea) at the airport or a mobile shop.

Orientation Strategies

  • Familiarize Surroundings

    Locate nearby restaurants, ATMs, and convenience stores around your accommodation.

  • Obtain Local Map

    Get a map (physical or digital) of Jaisalmer city, especially the fort area.

  • Ask Hotel Staff

    Inquire for local recommendations, reliable transport options, and current safety advice.

Financial & Transport Needs

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency at authorized centers or use ATMs.

Avoid unofficial money changers who might offer unfavorable rates or scams.

Immediate Purchases

Acquire bottled water immediately upon arrival for hydration.

Buy any immediate necessities like snacks or toiletries.

Transport to Accommodation

Prepaid taxis from airports or train stations present fixed rates and a hassle-free experience.

Confirm the fare and destination before getting into the vehicle.

Safety on Arrival

At airports/stations, utilize official prepaid taxi counters or reputable app-based services. Unsolicited offers from touts carry risks.

Departure Preparation

Departure planning for a relaxed trip conclusion.

Souvenir and Shipping Details

  • If you purchase large or valuable souvenirs, inquire about shipping options with the vendor.
  • Awareness of home country customs regulations for textiles, animal products (if any), and jewelry avoids issues upon return.
  • Consider durability and packaging for transport.
  • Keep receipts for customs declarations.

VAT Refund Overview

  • India currently lacks a general VAT (Value Added Tax) refund scheme for tourists.
  • Do not expect tax refunds on purchases.
  • Tax inclusions are part of the listed price.
  • No specific process for tourist refunds.

Pre-Departure Timing

Timely arrival at your departure point.

Timing Recommendations

  • Allow ample travel time to the airport or station, especially during peak hours.Traffic can be unpredictable.
  • Check flight or train status online before leaving accommodation.Stay updated.
  • Arrive at airport 2-3 hours before domestic flights.3-4 hours before international flights.
  • For train stations, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.Avoid rush.

Return Journey Prep

  • Reconfirm international flights.
  • Pack appropriately for next destination or return home, considering any climate changes.
  • Dispose of unneeded local currency or plan exchange.
  • Final check of all documents.

Packing Considerations

For significant purchases, especially from local artisans, inquire about direct shipping. This may simplify your luggage situation.

Explore organizational tools from Eagle Creek for efficient packing.