Pre-Trip Planning: Vrindavan

Chronological Planning

A timeline to guide your preparations for Vrindavan.

Preparation Timeline

Follow these steps for a well-organized trip.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Apply for India e-Visa.

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations. Purchase travel insurance. Consider World Nomads.

Flight Bookings

Book international and domestic flights.

Month Before

Accommodation Bookings

Confirm Vrindavan bookings, especially for peak season.

Train Tickets

Book Mathura train tickets via IRCTC.

Packing & Gear

Start detailed packing list. Consider a Packing organizer from Eagle Creek.

Week Before

Reconfirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, hotel reservations, and transfers.

Financial Preparation

Notify your bank. Arrange for a small amount of local currency.

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of all important documents.

Required Bookings

Secure these items well in advance.

Booking Checklist

International and long-distance domestic flights.
India visa application (e-Visa or regular).
Accommodation in Vrindavan, especially for busy periods.
Long-distance train tickets (e.g., Delhi to Mathura).

Pre-Trip Research

Gain valuable insights before your visit.

Research Topics

Understand climate patterns for your travel dates.
Learn about cultural norms and etiquette, especially for temples.
Learning a few common Hindi phrases makes your interactions better.
Home preparation: secure your home, notify trusted contacts.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home for your absence.

Security

Ensure your home is secure.
Lock all doors and windows.
Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
Turn off unnecessary utilities.

Trusted Contacts

Notify a trusted family member or friend.
Provide your travel itinerary.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Ensure emergency contacts are reachable.

Finances

Pay any bills due during your absence.
Set up automatic payments if possible.
Check on any subscriptions or deliveries.
Have a plan for financial emergencies.

Health Consult

Consult your doctor or a travel clinic. Discuss recommended vaccinations and preventative medications. Schedule necessary vaccinations early.

Arrival & Orientation

Navigate your arrival smoothly.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs.
Have your passport, visa (printed e-Visa ETA), and arrival forms ready.
2
Collect Luggage.
Pick up your checked luggage from baggage claim.
3
Transfer.
Locate your pre-booked transfer or official pre-paid taxi counter.

Orientation & Purchases

SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card (passport, visa copy, photo needed).
Familiarize Yourself
Locate nearby shops, restaurants, and ATMs.
Bottled Water
Buy bottled water immediately; check for unbroken seal.

Local Transport & Currency

Local Map

Use your downloaded offline map to understand Vrindavan's layout.

Get a physical map from shops for a general overview.

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of foreign currency at the airport initially.

Use an ATM once settled for better exchange rates.

Local Transport

Ask hotel staff about best local transport options (rickshaws, e-rickshaws).

Inquire about estimated fares for common routes.

Getting to Vrindavan

From Delhi Airport: Use a reputable pre-paid taxi service booked from the official counter inside the terminal.

From Mathura Junction (Railway Station): Take an auto-rickshaw or e-rickshaw to Vrindavan. Negotiate the fare before starting.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure leads to a positive trip conclusion.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of departure.
Inquire about shipping services from larger cities for big items.
Most small shops in Vrindavan do not offer international shipping.
India does not have a nationwide VAT refund system for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for travel from Vrindavan to Delhi/Agra airports.
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights.
For train departures from Mathura Junction, arrive 30-45 minutes early.
Reconfirm your return flight or train details.

Return Trip Prep

Ensure all aspects of your return journey are covered.

Final Checks

Pack luggage appropriately for return.
Secure all valuables in carry-on.
Spend any remaining local currency.
Confirm airport transfers.

Home Pre-departure

Ensure your home is secure.
Notify trusted contacts of your travel itinerary.
Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
Arrange for pet care if needed.

Final Checklist

Make sure all bookings are confirmed and necessary documents are in order.

A calm and organized departure reflects a wonderful trip experience.

Pre-Trip Planning