Unorthodox way of seeing India..

Many people arrive by air, take a coach ,see the historical monuments and leave. This is India you see in the Guide books.

India is a safe country and southern India is absolutely safer.
But, it is still better to arrive with a companion. Almost everyone can speak in English or they will understand English the least.And dont do the general mistake of arriving in Dec/Jan as most tourists do coz they are scared of the weather. India is a land of myriad weather...just be prepared to enjoy it.

Aircon rooms are available frm $10 onwards.Pl plan your trip according to the local melas. These festivals are great occasions when thousands and lakhs meet to receive the Divine blessings.They are colorful, noisy, exuberant and fun.

Forget the modern methods of transport. A journey to India is incomplete without an Elephant ride, a camel ride or on a ride by horse drawn carriage( you can do this in upmarket Nariman point in Mumbai too).If you are visiting Southern India ,Pl try the Bullock drawn vehicles especially those used for racing called the Rekla races in TamilNadu. They are as much fun as the F1 formula racing.

Try Indian food. The Southern India's IDLY and DOSAS are safer.Avoid Non Vegetarian food in Government run restaurants for reasons obvious.The Naan and the Curry that go with it can be hot, so just be a little cautious.Safe drinking water is available in Bottles everywhere.

Most State Governments run their own hotels. Most of them are fine except for their restaurants.These hotels are centrally located and they are relatively cheap. That is a big advantage.
You may get accomodation in Youth Hostels or YMCAs or YWCAs.Browse on the Internet to book in advance. Generally rooms are available except in the month of Dec/Jan, the Peak tourist season.

There are many Low cost carriers operating in India. The Best are Indigo and Goair.There is also AirDeccan and Spice Jet. Easyair is set to launch quality airservices soon. You can book tickets for these airlines on the internet. Pl be careful before you decide because some airlines will hide their airport taxes before quoting(cleverly) and the final airticket will cost about a thousand more.

Welcome to India! You wont have seen anything like this!