Introduction To India
India is renowned as a unique cultural hotspot offering a colourful mixture of customs, traditions, religions, rituals and languages. From iconic legendary monuments through to stunning scenery and the hustle and bustle of ancient market places. As a result of all of these wonderful things, India is now emerging as one of the world’s favourite tourist destinations. Explore the Himalayas of the north and the beaches of Kerala in the south, with numerous attractions, not to mention the fantastic shopping opportunities. The memories you will get from a visit to India will stay with you forever!
THE WEATHER
As a general rule, the north of India is cooler, the centre is hot and dry, and the south has a tropical climate. However, the weather in India can vary dramatically. At times of the year when the southern tip of India is being lashed by tropical monsoon rain, the north may be blanketed in thick snow. Therefore, the best time to travel to India depends greatly on the destinations you would like to visit and the time of year.
CURRENCY
Indian currency is known as Rupee(s). The Reserve Bank of India offers Rs.1000, Rs.500, Rs.100, Rs.50, Rs.20, Rs.10, Rs.5 in bills and Rs.5, Rs.2, Rs.1 in coins. In major cities, the full group of banks cards are generally accepted including debit cards, American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. However, in smaller towns and villages, choice is generally restricted to cash or MasterCard and Visa. 24 hr ATMs are available all over the country for easy cash withdrawal using your international debit or credit card. Travellers’ cheques are also widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels.The most easily accepted currencies include Euros, US Dollars and Pounds Sterling.Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option.
LANGUAGE
Hindi is the official and the most widely spoken language of India and is used by about 40% of the population. English is also enshrined in the constitution for a wide range of official purposes, as well as 18 other regional languages. A large number of the Muslim population often use Urdu as their mother tongue.
FOOD
Indian food is world famous for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. From region to region, for example, curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices, such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed. Vegetarian food is also widely available. It is always best to choose carefully when eating out. Bottled water is recommended for visitors but make sure the bottles are properly sealed.
SHOPPING
India can be ranked in one of the top favourite shopping destinations. Travellers can buy different varieties of metal crafts, jewellery, clothes, footwear, wood craft, pottery craft, painting, furniture and floor coverings here. Almost every package offered by Able Journeys includes a day of accessible shopping activities in Emporiums and flat surfaced wheelchair friendly “bazaars”. Whether it is travelling through the narrow streets of Johari bazaar in Jaipur or buying some beautifully designed textiles at Chandini Chowk in New Delhi; we have all your requirements covered so you can have a true India shopping experience. Although the accessibility infrastructure is not as you may expect in the UK or USA, you are guaranteed to find great deals on authentic Indian artefacts and inexpensive souvenirs to take back home. India has a rich and unique cultural heritage that continues to attract millions of tourists. Our mission was to make this magnificent country accessible to those travellers with special disability needs by providing an unbeatable, bespoke service. Now people with special needs can enjoy some of the most popular tourist destinations the country has to offer along with traditional Indian hospitality in a relaxed and stress-free fashion, reassured by the assistance of our trusted attendants. Every day of your holiday is expertly organised and your accommodation needs are carefully considered with the majority of the hotels we feature having staff available 24/7 to ensure that you have a comfortable stay. Furthermore, if you require immediate assistance from dedicated nurses, doctors and personal assistants, this can easily be arranged in all major cities.
