India is not an easy travel destination for the first time tourist. Deep rooted customs still play an important part in daily life. Add in an unending list of misconceptions and you could be as confused about what to expect as I was stepping off the plane for my first trip years ago. Arrive with a starting knowledge with this list of the Top 10 Basic India Travel Tips:

Money

There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring.

Banks

Banks are open for transaction from 10:00 - 15:30 hrs on weekdays and from 10:00 - 12:00 hrs on Saturdays.

Credit Cards

Main hotels, restaurants and shopping centres honour major credit cards.

Time

(Hours fast (+), slow (-) on IST) USA: -10.30, Germany: - 4.30, Canada: - 10.30, France: - 4.30, Australia: + 4.30, Spain: - 4.30, UAE: - 1.30, UK: - 5:30.

Best time to Visit

High season: September-May
Monsoon Rejuvenation programmes: June-August

Travel Kit

Cotton outfits; hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc.

Drugs

Heavy penalties including imprisonment for possession of narcotic drugs.

Ayurveda

Go only to those Ayurveda centres that are classified/approved by the Department of Tourism.

Emergency Numbers

Police control room: 100
Fire station: 101
Ambulance: 102, 108

Smoking

Smoking is banned in public places.