Archives: FAQ

Answer: Nepal has a diverse range of elevations and climates, which can cause weather variations between regions, making it difficult to make general statements about seasonal weather. However, spring and fall are popular for trekking due to stable weather and clear skies, while winter and summer have unique advantages and fewer crowds. Winter is good for trekking in lower elevations and visiting the jungles of Chitwan and Bardia, while summer is best for visiting the “rain shadow” areas of Upper Mustang and Nar Phu.

Answer:  This depends on your interests and preferences, but most Goway passengers will visit the north on their first trip to India to see the TajMahal and the main sites in Rajasthan and Varanasi. South India can be done as an extension or a separate trip altogether. The most common places Goway passengers visit in southern India are Goa for the beaches and Kerala for a houseboat experience, but Chennai and Bangalore are other options. India is a large country so the climate, landscape, and culture vary depending on which region you visit.

Answer: Yes, English is commonly spoken throughout India. In fact, most children, particularly in the cities, learn English first in school. It is the most important language for commercial, national, and political status. Hindi is the national language and primary tongue for 40% of Indians. However, there are 21 other official languages, including Gujarati, Tamil, Punjabi and Sanskrit.

The official language in India is Hindi.

Answer: For its size, India has a very low crime rate and is generally a safe country. However, as with any international travel, please be aware of your surroundings. Always make sure your purse is zipped and wallets are in sealed pockets. In the markets, be vigilant of pick-pockets and distraction scams. Additionally, at the train/bus stations and airports, monitor your luggage at all times.

Answer: Immunizations are not required to visit India. (Exception: if you are traveling from an area infected with Yellow Fever, you must have a certificate.) Depending on the season and region of travel, certain vaccinations and/ or medications are suggested and we will recommend preventative measures. We do encourage all travelers to be current on routine immunizations. Also, we recommend the Tetanus and Hepatitis A vaccine.

Answer: It really depends on your destination, activities and season of travel. In much of Northern and Central India, the favored time to visit is from October – March, when the weather is most mild. In Southern and Eastern India, it is contingent on the monsoon season. Our destination specialists will recommend certain travel times after learning more about your preferences.

Answer: It all depends on your destination and season of travel. Much of India has a patchy climate: warmer in the days and cooler in the evenings. A light jacket or layering is best to accommodate the varying temperatures. Also, we suggest shoes that are comfortable for walking, including sandals and tennis shoes. A head cover may be required for women and men at certain sacred sites and places of worship.

Answer: Yes. India offers an electronic tourist visa on arrival (TVoA). Applicants of the eligible countries may apply online a minimum of four days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 30 days. Example: If applying on 1st Sept, you can select an arrival date from 5th Sept to 4th Oct. This process is only valid for single entry and the visa validity will be 30 days from the date of arrival in India. For more information, please visit the India Electronic Travel Authorization.

If your trip exceeds 30 days in duration, or if you are planning to re-enter India after visiting other destinations, you will need to complete an application from Cox & Kings Global Services. Applications can be completed online.

Answer: Affordability – India is considered one of the top 15 most affordable destinations in the world.

People – Indians are very friendly and enjoy engaging with foreigners.

Ease of Communication – Most Indians can speak at least conversational English and internet/Wi-Fi/cell service is widely available.

Something for Everyone – India offers history, culture, architecture, adventure, Yoga, Ayurveda, cuisine, beaches, Himalayas, wildlife, backwaters, shopping, festivals, music, dancing, religion and spirituality – just to name a few!

Answer: If you fall ill during your trek, the course of action depends on what’s wrong. If it’s altitude sickness, moving to lower altitudes and taking altitude medication will solve most cases; if it’s quite severe, your guide will arrange for an emergency evacuation by helicopter (be sure that emergency helicopter rescue is covered in your travel insurance). If you have a stomach sickness or other types of food or water-related illnesses, your guide will have medication on-hand for most common illnesses.