Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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If you're mostly staying in budget places, bring your own sheet or sleeping-bag liner. Sheets and bedcovers at cheap
hotels can be stained, well worn and in need of a wash.
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An insect repellent and a torch (flashlight) are recommended for budget hotels.
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Noise pollution can be irksome (especially in urban hubs); pack good-quality earplugs and request a room that doesn't
face a busy road.
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It's wise to keep your door locked, as some staff (particularly in budget hotels) may knock and automatically walk in
without awaiting your permission.
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Blackouts are common (especially during summer and the monsoon) so double-check that the hotel has a back-up
generator if you're paying for electric 'extras' such as air-conditioners, TVs and wi-fi.
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Note that some hotels lock their doors at night. Members of staff might sleep in the lobby but waking them up can be
a challenge. Let the hotel know in advance if you'll be arriving late at night, or leaving early in the morning.
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Away from tourist areas, cheaper hotels may not take foreigners because they don't have the necessary foreigner-re-
gistration forms.
Camping
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There are few official camping sites in South India. On the other hand, wild camping is often the only accommodation
option on trekking routes. Seek safety advice in advance.
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In some mountain areas, you'll also find summer-only tented camps, with accommodation in semi-permanent 'Swiss
tents' with attached bathrooms.
Dormitory Accommodation
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A number of hotels have cheap dormitories, although these may be mixed and, in less touristy places, full of drunken
males - not ideal conditions for women.
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More traveller-friendly dorms are found at the handful of hostels run by the YMCA, YWCA and Salvation Army as
well as at those associated with HI or YHAI (Youth Hostels Association of India).
Government Accommodation & Tourist Bungalows
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The Indian government maintains a network of guesthouses for travelling officials and public workers, known vari-
ously as rest houses, dak bungalows, circuit houses, PWD (Public Works Department) bungalows and forest rest houses.
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These places may accept travellers if no government employees need the rooms, but permission is sometimes required
from local officials and you'll probably have to find the
chowkidar
(caretaker) to open the doors. Besides, there's always
the risk of being thrown out if officials suddenly arrive during your stay!
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'Tourist bungalows' are run by state governments - rooms are usually midpriced (some with cheap dorms) and have
varying standards of cleanliness and service.
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Some state governments also run chains of more expensive hotels, including some lovely heritage properties. Details
are normally available through the state tourism offices.
