Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Buses run by the state government are usually the more reliable option (if there's a breakdown, another bus will be
sent to pick up passengers), and seats can usually be booked up to a month in advance. Many state governments now op-
erate super-deluxe buses.
»
Private buses are either more expensive (but more comfortable), or cheaper but with kamikaze drivers and conductors
who cram on as many passengers as possible to maximise profits.
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Travel agencies in many tourist towns offer relatively expensive private two-by-two buses, which tend to leave and
terminate at convenient central stops.
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Take earplugs on long-distance buses to muffle the often deafening music or movies played in some buses.
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On any bus, try to sit upfront to minimise the bumpy effect of potholes. Avoid sitting directly above the wheels.
Costs
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The cheapest buses are 'ordinary' government buses, but prices vary from state to state.
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Add around 50% to the ordinary fare for deluxe services, double the fare for AC, and triple or quadruple the fare for a
two-by-two super-deluxe service.
Luggage
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Luggage is stored in compartments underneath the bus (sometimes for a small fee) or carried on the roof.
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Arrive at least an hour before departure time - some buses cover roof-stored bags with a canvas sheet, making last-
minute additions inconvenient/impossible.
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If your bags go on the roof, make sure they're securely locked, and tied to the metal baggage rack - unsecured bags
can fall off on rough roads.
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Theft is a (minor) risk: watch your bags at snack and toilet stops. Never leave day-packs or valuables unattended in-
side the bus.
Reservations
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Most deluxe buses can be booked in advance - government buses usually a month ahead - at the bus station or local
travel agencies.
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Online bookings are now possible in select states such as Karnataka or at the excellent portal
Redbus
(
1800
30010101;
www.redbus.in
).
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Reservations are rarely possible on 'ordinary' buses; travellers can be left behind in the mad rush for a seat.
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To secure a seat, send a travelling companion ahead to claim some space, or pass a book or article of clothing through
an open window and place it on an empty seat. This 'reservation' method rarely fails.
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If you board a bus midway through its journey, you may have to stand until a seat becomes free.
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Many buses only depart when full - passengers might suddenly leave yours to join one that looks nearer to departing.
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Many bus stations have a separate women's queue (not always obvious when signs are in Hindi and men join the mel-
ee).
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Women have an unspoken right to elbow their way to the front of any bus queue in India, so don't be shy, ladies!
