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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Rajasthan, India

Essential Preparations

Chronological Planning

A systematic approach to your pre-departure tasks.

1

-6 Months Before

Visa & Flights

Apply for Indian visa and book international flights early.

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations and secure comprehensive travel insurance.

Fair Accommodation

If traveling during Pushkar Fair, book accommodation very early.

2

-2 Months Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights, train tickets, or long-distance buses within India.

Itinerary & Stays

Book your remaining accommodation in Pushkar and plan your detailed itinerary.

Driving Permits

Arrange any necessary international driving permits if planning to rent a scooter or car.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Confirmations

Confirm all your bookings: flights, hotels, and tours.

Document Copies

Make copies (digital and physical) of all essential documents; store these separately.

Financial & Packing

Inform your bank of travel dates and start packing, making a list of items to bring.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing elements of your trip in advance is a smart approach.

Booking Essentials

  • Flights (international and domestic).
  • Visa for India.
  • Accommodation (important during peak season and the Pushkar Fair).
  • Train tickets (especially for popular routes) and any specific tours.

Pre-Trip Research

Informing yourself before travel leads to a richer experience.

Cultural & Practical Research

  • Read up on Indian culture, customs, and etiquette.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Hindi phrases.
  • Understand the local climate for your specific travel dates.
  • Arrange for mail, pet care, and secure your home before departure.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home for your absence.

Arrangements

  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Arrange for pet care if applicable.

Security

  • Secure your home, locking all windows and doors.

Emergency Contacts

  • Inform a trusted person of your itinerary and provide them with your emergency contacts.

Essential Reminder

Remember to inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid issues with transactions.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours after arriving in Pushkar are important for setting a positive tone for your trip.

Initial Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Clear immigration and customs procedures at the airport.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card

    Purchase a local SIM card (Airtel or Jio) at the airport for immediate connectivity.

Orientation & Currency

  • Pre-booked Transport

    Locate your pre-booked transport or arrange a prepaid taxi to your accommodation.

  • Local Orientation

    Once at your accommodation, take a moment to get oriented with a local map. Ask hotel staff for local recommendations.

  • Currency Exchange

    Exchange some local currency at the airport or use an ATM to get Indian Rupees for immediate needs.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

If you purchased larger souvenirs, plan for any shipping requirements in advance. Confirm the costs and logistics with the shop.

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for items like leather goods or antiques. Keep receipts for all your purchases.

VAT & Timing

India does not have a general VAT (Value Added Tax) refund scheme for tourists, so this procedure is not applicable for your departure.

Confirm your flight, train, or bus departure times at least 24-48 hours in advance. Allow ample time for travel to the airport or station.

Return Trip

Pack smartly to avoid excess baggage fees, especially if you have acquired many souvenirs. Check your airline's baggage allowance.

Keep essential documents, like your passport and boarding pass, easily accessible. Ensure local SIM card data or validity is sufficient until departure, or plan for airport Wi-Fi.

Final Check

Confirm your transport details and double-check your belongings before leaving for the airport or station.

Cultural Awareness & Practicalities

Cultural Etiquette

  • Remove shoes before entering temples, homes, and certain shops or ghats.
  • Use your right hand for all transactions, giving and receiving items, and eating.
  • Do not point with your finger; use an open palm to indicate direction.
  • Be aware of cattle and other animals on the streets; they are sacred and have right of way.

Smart Practices

  • Bargaining is expected for market purchases and auto-rickshaw fares; engage in polite negotiation.
  • Strictly avoid drinking tap water; only consume sealed bottled water or water purified yourself.
  • It is generally advised not to give money directly to child beggars; consider donating to reputable local NGOs.
  • Do not overlook Ajmer, just a short trip away, offering historical and religious sites that complement Pushkar.

Affiliate Resources

Integrate useful tools and services for a comfortable journey.

Travel Planning & Security

Digital Resources for Planning

  • Google Maps for navigation and finding points of interest.
  • Google Translate for overcoming language barriers.
  • XE Currency for quick currency conversion.
  • WhatsApp for communicating with tour operators and hotels.

Additional Resources

Explore the Rajasthan Tourism Official Website for general information on the state.

Check the Indian Ministry of Tourism for national tourism guidelines.