Pushkar Camel Fair - More than a Cattle fair

India is a country of Culture and villages. A culture which believes in sharing and spreading happiness. That is probably a reason why Indian calendar is full of festivals and fairs, celebrating almost anything with great elan, whether it is the change of a season or birthday of any of the millions of Gods they pray to.

Indians need a slightest of reason to organize a fair or congregate to celebrate an event. This inherent culture of sharing the happiness have given birth to many a fairs and festivals, many celebrated into the villages.Village fares are mainly an extension of local markets and mainly comprise of coming together of little shops selling daily household items, cultural dance and song shows, puppet shows, games and joy rides for children and food stalls selling fast food items. It is a celebratory atmosphere where people flock in numbers to shop, eat and make merry , often in groups of family members and friends.

Most of the village fairs have shops selling daily household items like earthen and steel utensils, clothes, toys and other daily household items, some of the fairs are specially designed around another important aspect of agrarian economy, Cattle.  Since cattle is as important in agrarian economy as humans, many a fairs are organized around cattle referred to as cattle fairs. It is a place where people come from various parts of the country to buy and sell cattle often in celebratory atmosphere. Cattle fairs are held in different parts of India at different period of times like Sonepur Cattle Fair being held in October November in Sonepur,Near Patna, Bateshwar Cattle fair in Bateshwar Near Agra in January February , Nagaur Cattle fair at Nagaur village near Jodhpur in January February , Kulkunda Cattle at Kulkuda Village in Subhramanya near Medikeri and Mangalore, Karnataka in November, but the biggest of them all is the Pushkar Cattle fair more popularly known as Pushkar Camel Fair, due to large presence of Camel as the mainly traded animals. Nearly 300000 Villagers and locals participate and more than 50000 camels are traded, apart from the trade of other animals including cows, goats, sheeps and horses. People from all over Rajasthan used to walk for days to reach the fair ground (till the modern transport means were developed) in the hope of getting good price from the buyers for their cattle, or to purchase best of the cattle at the most reasonable price.

Pushkar Camel Fair is held every year During the Hindu month of Kartik from Kartik Ekadashi to Kartik Poornima (full moon day) as per Hindu Calendar at Pushkar, a tiny but holy village near Ajmer, around 140 kms from the Capital of state of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India, whose origin is not known, but it is believed that it was created by Lord Brahma. According to a legend, Brahma  in search of a place for Mahayagna  found Pushkar to be suitable for him, but he came to know that a demon, Vajranash, is killing innocent people. Lord Brahma then intoned a mantra on a lotus flower and killed the demon with it, but during the  process the parts of flower fell at three places which later came to be known as Jyaistha, Madhya and Kanistha Pushkar. After killing of the demon,  Brahma performed a yagna to protect this place from demons. But to complete the Yagna , The consort of Brahma, Saraswati, was needed to offer Ahuti for the yagna. As she was not present and the Yagna needed to be performed , a local  Gurjar girl,Gayatri,  was married to Lord Brahma and yagna was concluded. This act made Saraswati ,first wife of Lord Brahma, very angry and she cursed Brahma saying that he would not be worshipped anywhere in the world except  Pushkar  From that day the priests in Brahma temple are from Gurjar community. Lord Brahma is hence worshipped only at Pushkar , and although few more temples in India and South East Asia are there dedicated to Lord Brahma, but he is worshipped only at Pushkar. 

Another legend is that the Pushkar Lake was originated from the tear drop of Lord Shiva which fell at Pushkar, when he cried after the death of his wife Sati.

Pushkar Camel Fair dates

Pushkar Camel Fair is held every year During the Hindu month of Kartik from Kartik Ekadashi to Kartik Poornima (full moon day) as per Hindu Calendar at Pushkar,hence it date changes every year as per the commonly used Gregorian calendar. The Kartik month usually falls in October - November. The following are the official dates of Pushkar Fair for coming years :

2012 : November 24 - 28

2013: November 12 - 16

2014: November 02-06

2015 : November 21-25

When Best to visit Pushkar Cattle Fair

The above are official dates for the Pushkar fair, when the cultural programs, shows are organized officially by the Govt and the prayer ceremonies are conducted,although the activities starts much earlier. The best time to visit Pushkar Cattle Fair is usually 2-3 days before the actual fair starts, as that is when, you will see most of the cattle being traded. The official opening of the fair, usually marks the end of the cattle trading and most of the cattle owners leave by the first or second day of cattle fair. Pushkar camel fair is more than cattle fair, it is also a cultural extravaganza, a place to enjoy and participate in fun and frolic.

Recommended dates for Pushkar Camel Fair ( to see best of both, the cultural fares and the cattle congregation)

2012 :November 21-25 ( official fair dates November 24 - 28)

2013: November 09 -13 ( official fair dates November 12 - 16)

2014: October 31 - November 3 ( official fair dates November 02-06)

2015 : November 18 - 22  ( official fair dates November 21-25)

What to see During Pushkar Camel Fair

Pushkar camel fair is a place where you not only will observe a lot of cattles of various strengths and sizes, but also a lot of color and culture. You will see people from all over Rajasthan with their cattle , exceeding over 50000 camels and hundred of other animals including cows, oxes, Horses, buffaloes, goats and sheep.You will see a lot of folk dances and folk songs being conducted through out the day.

You will also get to participate in various village competition games like Turban Tying competition, camel Races, Camel Decoration competition, longest mustache competition,  rope pulling, Kabaddi Matches (local  V/s visitors), Camel and Horse Dances etc. You will also see variety of village handicrafts and daily use items being sold in makeshift shacks and people in colorful dresses from villages buying them. You will also see a lot of shops selling local snacks as well as variety of fast foods. 

During  the second half of the fair, you will see a lot of people offering prayers and conducting special prayer ceremonies. Bathing in the Pushkar Lake on the full moon day is considered specially ominous and is believed to wash you all of your sins. Prayers are offered to departed ones for the happiness and peace of their soul. Taking bath in the Pushkar Lake during this period is considered to wash you of your sins. 

Fun Activities at Pushkar
You can participate and enjoy  the following fun activities in Pushkar:
-Camel and Camel Cart riding
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Body piercing, tattooing both permanent and temporary
- Participation in village competition including tug of war , turban tying and kabaddi

Where to Stay at Pushkar during Cattle fairs
Pushkar have various options of accommodations available from Guest Houses, Budget hotels to starred hotels, it however lacks deluxe hotels. Pushkar also have accommodation option of fixed swiss tented complexes, which operates through out the year.Accommodation in the hotels during this period of Pushkar Camel Fair, becomes particularly expensive with prices of starred hotel rising three to four folds.

Apart from the above, Various tent operators pitch special tented complex near the fair ground providing accommodation in swiss tents with attached toilets at reasonable costs. These tents complexes comes up about 2-4 days prior to the start of the cattle fair and are uprooted at the end of the fair. They are conveniently located near the fair grounds and offer you stay on all meals, evening cultural dances and easy access to the fair activities ( some tent operators offer complimentary shuttle to the fair ground through camel cart rides)

How to Reach Pushkar
By Air : The nearest airport to Pushkar is at Jaipur, which is an international airport too.It takes about 3 hrs by road to reach Pushkar from Jaipur airport as it is about 150 kms. Jaipur airport is connected to the various parts of India and few international destinations too.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Ajmer , which is about 15 kms from Pushkar, Ajmer is a major junction in Delhi - Mumbai route and have numerous direct train from Delhi and Mumbai. Currently the extension of railway line to Pushkar is being carried out, soon the trains will be extended till Pushkar to give it better connectivity with Delhi.

By Road :Pushkar is well connected by road to rest of India, It is about 150 kms / 3 hrs drive from Jaipur, 249 kms/ 5 hrs drive from Jodhpur and 275 kms / 5 hrs drive from Udaipur. 244 kms/ 5 hrs drive from Bikaner.

Kumbha Mela - An Event of Faith and devotion

Kumbh Mela - An Event of Faith and Devotion

There are very few occasions in the world, where people in large numbers running into millions of human beings, have come together at one place with one aim and objective. The biggest of these occasions is the Kumbh Mela or Kumbha Mela in India. The largest of them all was the Purna Kumbh Mela of 2001 in Allahabad, when 60 - 70 million people came together at one place - on the bank of river Ganges Allahabad, with one aim, to take a dip in the holy Ganges river at Sangam and make fresh beginning of life, devoid of the sins they might have committed till date. Maha Kumbh at Allahabad in 2013 is one of the biggest Kumbh Mela event of the century which will be repeated now after 144 years only,when the similar planetary combination will appear in the sky.

Kumbh or Kumbha Mela is the largest display of human faith in the world, where people from all strata of society, of every age group congregate at one place. What is so significant about this event which attracts so many people at one go?. The answer to this lies in the Indian Mythology, which also describes the origin of Kumbh - A Mela , an Event of faith and devotion.

Origin of Kumbha Mela, 

Once upon a time when the world was ruled by Demi Gods (Devta - Ruler of Heaven - the sky) and Demons (Asuras - Ruler of the world below the earth), both fighting for supremacy. The Demigods Had a king called Indra - The god of Rain. Once he was passing through earth on his elephant, when he came across revered saint Rishi Durvasa. As a mark of greeting Rishi Durvasa offered Lord Indra, one of the Garland from his neck. Indra, however being a proud king, took the Garland from the Rishi Durvasa, and without showing any respect to his offerings, placed it on the trunk of the Elephant he was riding. The Elephant being an animal, could not understand the importance of the Garland and threw it between his legs and trampled upon it.Seeing this, Rishi Durvasa took it as mark of disrespect of him and cursed Lord Indra and other demigods to be devoid of any material opulence and strength. As a result of this, the demigods become weak and lost all their material opulence and started to get defeated.

The demigods being the harbinger of auspiciousness and good fortune, started to lose to the Demons and the world started to get dis-balanced. Devoid of their strength and material opulence, the Demigods went to the creator of the World and supreme God, Lord Brahma with the request to the solution of their situation. Lord Brahma on hearing their plight and observing that the cycle of Creation, preservation and annihilation is being effected, directed the demigods go the Lord of preservation of the Universe, Lord Vishnu, He who knows everything which goes on in the world, He who himself creates situation, for the solution of which once found, will benefit the world for ever.

On hearing the plea of demigods, Lord Vishnu asked them to offer truce to the Demons and then jointly churn the ocean of milk, which will then produce nectar - which will make the one drinking it immortal. The Demigods, did the same and convinced the demons for this act promising them to share it in half with them. Lord Vishnu Himself took the form of Vasuki, a long snake to be used as rope and Mandara mountain was used as a pivot to churn the ocean. The Deimigods then convinced Demons to take the side of mouth while they themselves held the tail, so as to be bereft of any poison of the snake. And thus the churning of the ocean of milk began, which went for 1000 years.

Out of the churning, many a things were produced, first came out the deadliest of the poison, which started to affect the Demigods and Asuras alike and threatened the world to bring it to an end, Seeing this Lord Shiva - The lord of destruction, drank the poison and stored it in his neck( Which gave the color of his neck as blue). Later came apart from many a material wealth, Lakshmi - The Goddess of Wealth and fortune, various Apsaras, Varuni - the creator of asuras,various jewels, The Moon and Kamdhenu, a cow which is believed to fulfill all the wishes of the master, with the supply of unlimited milk. It was presented to the Saptarishi, to ensure steady supply of milk and Ghee for auspicious occasions and prayers.Last came out Dhanvantri -the doctor of Gods with the nectar, which was to provide the immortality to its drinker.

As soon as the nectar appeared, a fight ensued between the demons and the demigods, which ensued for 12 god days and nights ( one God day is equivalent to one human year). After 12 days, Garuda - the divine bird got hold of the nectar and flew from the battle seen, however during the flight he accidently dropped four drops on earth, one each at Haridwar, Allahabad, Ujjain and Nashik. It is believed that due to this, these places have gained mystical power to heal the human and rejuvenate them. The mystical powers are its best when the similar plenary combination is replicated as was at the time of the dropping of the nectar drops, and hence Kumbha Mela is celebrated every 12 years at these places, where bathing on the auspicious dates, is believed to cure all your illness and purify your soul, devoid of any sins and their effects.

Types of Kumbha Mela

The Kumbh Mela held after every 12 years is known as Purna Kumbh Mela, however apart from this, you have other Kumbha Mela also, which are celebrated as below :

-Kumbh Mela is celebrated every three years rotating between the four pious sites of Allahabad, Nasik, Haridwar and Ujjain, thus returning to the original site after 12 years.

-Ardh Kumbha - The Mela held after 06 years from the Kumbha at the same place is known as Ardh Kumbha.

-Maha Kumbh Mela is held after 12 Purna Kumbha Melas, at Allahabad, i.e once in 144 years. 

Selection of date and time for Kumbha Mela

The dates and venue of Kumbh Mela is decided upon the plenary position of the planets Brahaspati (Jupiter), Sun and Moon

According to the following plenary positions, the cities are decided :

	JUPITER	SUN	MOON
HARIDWAR	Aquarius	Aries	Sagittarius
ALLAHABAD	Taurus	Capricorn	Capricorn
NASIK	Leo	Cancer	Cancer
UJJAIN	Leo	Aries	Aries

The following are the sacred rivers where the Bathing Takes places during Kumbha Mela

-Ganges River at Haridwar

-Godavari River at Nasik

-Shipra River at Ujjain

-Confluence of Ganges, Yamuna and Mythological River of Knowledge Saraswati ( Hence allahabad Kumbh is one of the most celebrated and sacred of all )

Allahabad (Prayag) Maha Kumbh Mela 2013 -One of the Biggest Kumbh Melas

Allahabad (Persion name meaning Settled by God for Prayag) is an important religious town for Hindus and by some accounts the second oldest town. Allahabad originally and still known to Hindus as Prayag (meaning place of sacrifice) is believed to be place where Lord Brahma, after creating the universe gave his first sacrifice. It is also considered sacred as it is sangam (confluence) of three rivers, Yamuna (last city as it merges with Ganges here), Ganges and mythological river Saraswati ( known as the River of knowledge). It is one of the fastest growing cities in north India and is fast becoming industrialized. It is also famous for Kumbh Mela held every 12 years, Ardh Kumbh every 06 years and Magh Mela every Year and is the only place where Maha Kumbha Mela takes place every 144 Years.

January 14 till March 10 2013 was one such date where the celestial combinations repeated after 144 years and Maha Kumbha ( after 12 Purna Kumbh) was organised. It was  one of the biggest events of the century or recorded history, where it is believed that more than 120 million people visited. (current population of Allahabad is 1.1 million (census 2011). It was said that the Human congregation was so large that it could be observed by Satellites. 

Important bathing dates for Maha Kumbh Mela, Allahabad 2013:

Taking bath at River Ganges at Triveni on any of the day during the Kumbh will rinse you of our sins, but there are certain dates, decided by the cosmic combinations, which are most important, as it is said that, on this day, the effect of taking bath increases many fold and you move closer to God and freedom from the cycle of Life Called Moksha.

These are the important bathing dates, which are the most busiest in terms of the number of people travelling and are often known as the Royal Baths. The most important dates for the Maha Kumbh Mela of 2013 are as below. 

14th January 2013(Monday) – Makar Sankranti -(First Royal Bath)

This is the first day of the Kumbh Mela, an important festival celebrated all over India, albeit under different names of Makar Sankranti, Pongal in South India or Bihu in east India. This day it is believed that Sun starts its northward movement, entering into the tropic of Capricorn ( Makar). This also marks the beginning of the harvest season and is celebrated accordingly by all agriculturists. Spiritually it is believed that Lord Sun visits his son Saturn on this day and stays for one month. Also this day is also considered as the beginning of the day period of devta's, hence all auspicious works are started on this day. This Marks the beginning of Kumbh Mela with the fist of Royal Bath from the series of Royal Baths being taken.

27th January 2013(Sunday) – Paush Purnima -

This is full moon day in the month of Hindi Calendar Paush ( December January). Also believed to the day of Birth of Goddess Shakambari , it is an important date of Bathing.

06th February 2013(Wednesday) – Ekadashi Snan -

Ekadashi means, eleventh day of the month after full moon day. 11th day after Full moon day is considered auspicous for starting new jobs and prayers.

10th February 2013(Sunday) – Mauni Amavasya Snana ( most important Bathing date)

This is one of the most significant days in Hindu Calendar being the no moon day of the important and sacred month of Magh. This is also the day , which is considered the birth date of Rishi Manu - who is believed to be the single father of all mankind and progenitor of Man. This is the day when both Sun and Moon enter the Capricorn Sign. The day is observed as the day of silence and bathing at sunrise is believed to take you to Moksha - Freedom from the circle of Births and deaths.

15th February 2013(Friday) – Basant Panchami Snan

This is the Fifth Day of the Month of Magh, as per the Indian Calendar. Magh is the first month of Spring Season and Basant Panchami marks the start of the Spring season. It is celebrated for Goddess Saraswati - which is the Goddess of Knowledge and education, music and arts. People are taught to write their first letter on this day and other religious prayers are arranged including feeding of the Brahmins and offering prayers for the departed ones. Yellow color plays an important role in Basant Panchami, with people wearing Yellow color clothes and distributing Yellow colored sweets. Even the farmlands are decked with yellow colored flowers of mustard, giving a feeling of happiness to everyone.

17th February 2013(Sunday) – Rath Saptami Snana

Seventh day of the Month of Magh ( one of the most auspicious Month in Hindu Calendar), this day is dedicated to the Sun God. It is believed to be the birth date of Sun God Surya Narayan. Colorful Rangoli's are made outside the home to welcome sun rays and prayers with water is offered to the sun god. This is also the date when it is believed that Sun God Suya turns his Ratha (Chariot) drawn by seven horses (representing seven colors) towards the northern hemishpere , in north easterly direction. After this day, the day begins to become warmer and longer. 

18th February 2013(Monday) – Bhishm Ashtami Snana

This is the 8th Day of the month of Magh. This day also is called Bhisma Ashtami, as it is believed that on this day , the learning of Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram ( an important religious scripture) was passed on to the Pandavas by Pitamah Bhishma, after he chose this day to leave his body. ( Pitamah Bhisma was so Blessed that he could chose the date of his death on his own, and if he chose not to die, he can live forever)

25th February 2013(Monday) – Maghi Purnima Snan

This is the full moon day for the Month of Magh and hence an important day for bathing. It is believed that the water on this day , before sunrise have powers of God present in them. It is believed that on this day, if you take a dip at Sangam, before sunrise, you will get rinse of biggest of your sins.

10 March 2013(Sunday ) – Maha Shivratri Snan ( Last Royal Bath)

This day is significant as it marks the end of the Kumbh Mela with the last of Royal Baths taking on this day. Maha Shivratri is the most sacred day for the followers of Lord Shiva the destroyer and is celebrated by all Hindus. It is believed the Lord Shiva married Maa Parvati on this day. It is also believed that the famed Tandav Nritya ( dance of destruction) was performed by Lord Shiva on this day.

Future Dates of Kumbh Mela

The next Kumbh will be held at Haridwar From January 14 till  April 27'2021.  

Tips For travelling to Kumbh Mela

Events like Kumbh Mela are always a nightmare for the city administration hosting it, they suddenly have to manage and control the hordes of visiting people, far greater in number than the resident population. It not only creates challenges for the local administration towards ensuring peaceful conduct and atmosphere of the Mela, safety of the local resident as well as visiting public, they also have to deal with the incremental load of demand on the already scarce civic resources at their disposal.

To ensure smooth movement and security of the visiting and resident public and to manage he number of people ( which are far beyond the capacity the city can hold), the city administration imposes restrictions on movement of the individuals and vehicles on certain routes. On all main bathing dates, the vehicle movement is restricted to few emergency vehicles in the vicinity of the Mela event grounds. Almost all personal vehicles and taxi services are banned to move, the circumference of this ban from the main bathing ghats can extend to around 4-5 kms. Keeping in view of these restrictions, if you are travelling in and around these bathing dates, the following should be kept in mind :

- Be ready to walk - On main bathing dates , a day prior to it and day after it, almost all the vehicular movement within the area 4-5 kms from the main bathing ghat will be banned/disallowed. Leaving you no other option but to walk to the main bathing ghat from your place of residence.

-Carry enough water and snacks - While travelling out from your hotel, carry enough amount of water and snacks to last for the day. At the venue event, although few vending stalls are present, but you will find it difficult to find snacks or water of your choice at reasonable price. It is better to carry it along with you, so as to give you freedom from spending time in locating any such vendor.

-Travel light, if you are arriving near the dates of main bath and have booked a hotel in the city or tents near the vicinity of the main bathing Ghats, you might find it difficult to find a vehicle to carry you and your luggage to the place of residence due to various restrictions put up on the travelling routes for vehicular movement. You might have to walk down a fair distance to reach the hotel/ tents of your residence.

-Book in the vicinity of event - For long stay, avoid booking city hotels and chose one of the tent in the complexes specially set up for the Kumbh Mela. They are normally closer to the even venue, are set up in collaboration of the religious trusts and Akharas and hence gives you chance to interact with the local ascetics ( sadhus). You might get lucky to see some of the rarest moments in the life of these sadhus, who are normally secluded from the general public.

-Choose your arrival dates judiciously - the maximum restrictions on vehicular movement is on the dates of royal baths,a day prior and a day after. These are also the dates, when maximum number of local day visitors travel to the venue apart from people coming for the day from all over India. Almost all hotels and tent complex are booked, movement across the city is at a slow pace. Travelling between hordes of people with luggage will be an arduous task. It better to arrive a day earlier, will save you a lot of hassle and will give you enough time to rest as you prepare for early morning escapades on the bathing dates.

-Visit early in the morning to the Ghats - sunrise is better Most of the Nanga Sadhus and important Akharas offer their prayer at the River at dawn, with the first light. It is the best time to witness the grandeur of he ascetics. The best time to bathe in the river on these dates or any other dates is considered to be at dawn with sunrise. Accordingly the times are allotted to different religious trusts, the first slot being allotted to the most influential and religiously important group. The first one are normally the Nanga Sadhus which are the most reclusive of the group and are only seen at the Kumbha mela's rest of the time they recluse themselves to the higher mountain regions of Himalayas.

-Understand and respect local religious customs - Hindus normally are a tolerant lot, accepts criticism positively and constructively, are open to alternative views. But during the Kumbh Mela, religious tempers run high.You should be careful while expressing your views publicly especially if they are critical or non confirmatory of the general perception, as it might attract sharp reactions and uncomfortable and tense situations. A basic understanding of Hindu culture will not only help you avoid such situation but also helps you understand the importance of the religious activities going around you.

-Be friendly with caution - Indians in general are friendly people and receives other with warmth, but similar to every society, there are people who deviate from the normal culture and have a criminal mind. Be cautious of being overtly friendly with unknown persons, be careful in sharing drinks or food with unknown people ( drugging by food laced with drugs and subsequent robbing will be an event which will come to light more frequently). Apart from them,you need to be careful while interacting of approaching local Sadhus(ascetics) especially the more reclusive and regarded ones. Devoid of habit of living with people and appear in public, they might feel offended by your friendly gesture. You should be careful, specially while taking photographs, as many of these Sadhus(especially Nanga Sadhus) will not liked to clicked taking it as an offence (they are under the impression that you click their photographs, so as you can make fun of them later). You should also be careful while taking the photographs at bathing ghats, especially if a lot of women fold is taking the dip, as that can again be offensive to the local people.

TOURIST VISA FOR INDIA / INDIAN TOURIST VISA - SOME QUESTIONS ANSWERED

What is a Tourist VISA?

For visiting any country, you need to fulfill some formalities and obligations as set by the Government of the respective country, before you are allowed to enter or visit any country. Apart from a valid passport required to prove your identity and nationality, you need to obtain a permission to enter the country from the respective country offices or their representatives like the high commissions and Embassies. This permission is referred to as VISA, which is usually stamped on the Passports. Some of the countries might require special permissions, in addition of the normal VISA to visit certain parts of it.

VISA is of various types and is categorized on the purpose of your visit; accordingly the permission of duration of stay and movement in country is regulated. A VISA type not only indicates the purpose of your Visit but also specifies the kind of activities you can perform or get involved into the visiting country, duration of stay and the frequency of the visits you are allowed into a country. VISA’s are issued for the purpose of Tourism, Business, Medical Treatment, Transit, Diplomatic Visit, Employment etc.

The most common form of VISA issued is the tourist VISA and Business VISA. We here will stick to Tourist VISA. Tourist VISA is issued to the foreign nationals arriving in the country for the sole purpose of tourism or for visiting friends and relatives and do not intend to be gainfully employed during their visit.

Different countries have different VISA procedures and conditions of issuing a VISA, through which it regulates the kind of individuals, it wishes to allow into their respective countries, but also regulates their purpose, to best serve their local population. India too have set some procedures and guidelines for granting of VISA to India, which is issued on arrival (for individuals of limited countries) or through High Commission & Embassies set up in almost every country of world, where it has diplomatic relations and whose nationals it wishes to allow to visit its country.

VISA for India can be obtained from the nearest Indian High commission or Indian Embassy on application. The time required for processing of VISA for India by Indian High Commission/ Embassy varies from country to country, but usually it requires 4-7 working days from the date of submission of application to process Indian Tourist/Visit VISA. Emergency visit VISA too can be granted in shorter duration depending upon the gravity of situation and need.

What are the eligibility criteria for applying Tourist VISA for India? Or Who can apply for Tourist VISA for India?

ELIGIBILITY FOR INDIAN TOURIST VISA

All Foreign Nationals Can apply for Indian VISA with the Indian High Commission/Embassy of their respective country, provided they are holding a valid passport, with atleast six months (180 days) validity from the day of application and two blank pages in their passport. (Amendment pages are not acceptable or stamping of Indian VISA on the passport).

A tourist VISA for India is issued to the foreign national who does not have a residence or is not gainfully occupied/employed in India and whose sole purpose of visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet Friends or Relatives. No gainful employment or other activities are allowed on Tourist VISA.

Nationals from Nepal and Bhutan do not require VISA for India, if they are travelling by land or air from their respective countries, neither requires the passport, but they must hold a valid Identification proof confirming their identity, nationality and residence. These nationals, however if are travelling from other countries, do require to have their passport. Nepalese citizen travelling from China will require VISA to enter India.

Nationals of Maldives do not require VISA for entry to India, if they are travelling for the purpose of tourism and their stay in India does not extend for more than 90 days.

What s the duration of validity of Tourist VISA for India? Can I enter and exit any number of times to India on Indian Tourist VISA?

VALIDITY AND TYPE OF INDIAN TOURIST VISA

Single Entry, Double Entry and multiple entries VISA are issued depending on the number of entries you wish to have to India during your tour. The Validity of VISA ranges from 90 days to max 180 days from the date of grant of VISA (validity of VISA is counted from the date on which it is stamped and not from the date of your actual travel to India). The VISA are normally non convertible and non extendable. The issuing authority decides upon the duration for which the VISA is granted.

For double and multiple entries VISA and for the tourist who wish to re-visit India within 60 days of their leaving the county, the following additional conditions are applicable:

• Foreigners who are visiting India and neighbouring countries on a single itinerary/holiday can revisit India within 60 days for up to three entries. The immigration authorities in all Immigration check posts in the country may allow such foreign Nationals arriving in India on Tourist VISA, without the specific authorization from the Indian Missions/ Posts subject to production of Travel itinerary and supporting documents (Ticket bookings and hotel confirmations if any).

• Once a foreign national has completed three entries within 60 days of travel and finally exits from the country, he is not allowed to enter the country again on tourist VISA for atleast two months from the date of final exit.
• Visit within Two months Gap may be permitted by the missions/ Posts only in emergency situations like Death/ Serious illness in the family etc.

  DOCUMENTS REQUIRED WHILE SUBMITTING INDIAN TOURIST VISA APPLICATION FORMS

       What are the documents I need to submit for applying Indian Tourist VISA? 

• Passport valid for a minimum of 180 days with at least two blank pages.(Amendment pages are not accepted for the stamping of Indian VISA).
• Duly Filled VISA application form with Signatures on both pages.
• Correct visa fee with two recent Passport size (5 cms x 5 cms) photographs. {The photographs should be colored, with full frontal face (Full head from Top Hairs to the bottom Chin with part of neck, head should not be tilted), eyes open and looking at the front, white background. The photo should display natural body tone, no shadows on the face or background}

  Additional Documents required By Applicant’s holding Bangladeshi Passport Holders/Pakistani passport holders /International passport holders of Pakistani Origin /Spouse:

   For Pakistani Passport holder, International Passport Holder of Pakistani Origin Or spouse/ Children of such People

     If I am a Pakistani National, do I require to submit any additional documents?

• Notarized invitation from relative (s) in India and their proof of identity (Photo ID) (Only for Pakistani Passport Holder)
• Duly filled five sets of Specific Visa application form for Pakistani passport holders with one identical photo on each form.
• Duly filled Additional Information form

    For Bangladeshi Passport holder, International Passport Holder of Bangladeshi Origin Or spouse of such People

• Duly filled Visa Online Visa Application Form for Bangladeshi passport holders (All the columns of the Form are Mandatory and must be completely filled).

• Three sets of Application form.( Bangladeshi Passport Holders)

• Latest one month bank statement. (Afghanistan /Bangladeshi Passport Holders)

   For Sri Lankan & Chinese Passport Holders:

• Duly filled additional form (Colombo Form) for Srilankan passport holders

• Duly filled additional form (Beijing Form) for Chinese passport holders.
• Photocopy of the Surrender Certificate of the Indian Passport OR If travelled to India before, you can provide your Previous Passport with Indian Visa

• Tourist VISA on arrival may be converted to Entry VISA (X Type) for a foreigner, who after arrival in India and during the validity of his Tourist VISA, marries an Indian National. However following conditions must be fulfilled for the same:

Additional documents For Minor Child (Under 16 Years of age)

• A copy of the child’s birth certificate displaying both the parents names.
• Consent letter for travel of child addressed to the High Commissioner/ Ambassador signed by both the parents
• Photocopy of Parent’s passports along with the copy of their current Indian Visa, if already holding
• In case of Divorce, Child Custody Letter from court in respect of the child is required.
• In case of Single Parent, Solicitor’s Letter and Child Benefit letter will be required.
• In case of Minor’s Application/Declaration either of the parents can sign the application form.
• Last three months bank statement.
• Copy of employer's letter OR chartered accountant's certificate (if self-employed) OR unemployment allowance letter / disability allowance letter / benefit letter.

For Media Related Professionals, Police or Armed Forces, Commercial Pilots/Crew Members, Charity/Social Workers and Priest going to India for Tourism:

• Employer letter addressed to the High Commissioner/ Ambassador of India stating the purpose.

• For Media related professionals who are Self Employed need to provide an Undertaking letter stating no Professional related activities would be undertaken during the stay in India.

Tourist VISA on arrival of the foreigners, who fall ill after their entry into India and are declared unfit to travel and require specialized treatment can be converted into Medical VISA. For this they should be eligible for Grant of Medical VISA and a certificate of illness and treatment required should be obtained from Government/ Government recognized hospitals. In Such case the Tourist VISA on Arrival of the accompanying Foreigner can be converted into Medical Attendant VISA, the VISA terminating with the termination of the Medical VISA of the foreigner.

ANY Foreigner can be refused entry to India if :

• He/She is not entering India from the designated Port.
• He/She is not in a possession of Valid Passport and VISA
• He/She is Insane or suffering From Infectious of Loathsome Disease which is harmful to Public Health
• He/She is involved in an extraditable offence (offence for which he can be extradited) o his/her entry is prohibited under the specific order of the Central Government.

DOCUMENTATION/ IMMIGRATION CHECK REQUIRED AFTER REACHING INDIA

Immigration check is carried out for all the passengers at the arrival port in India and includes checking of the Passport, VISA, Disembarkation card, entering foreigner’s particulars in computer, stamping of Passport and retention of disembarkation card.

Do I need to fulfill any formalities after arrival in India, Even if I have got Indian Tourist VISA?

A disembarkation card (arrival Card) need to be filled on arrival furnishing true particulars of name and nationality, age, sex, place of Birth, address or intended address in India, Purpose of visit and proposed length of his stay in India.

Pakistan Nationals other than those holding Diplomatic VISA, are required to present a VISA Application form ( Duplicate Copies) issued by the Indian Mission concerned in addition to the regular tourist VISA at the immigration check post, who then issues a Regular Residential Permit. After that they are required to report at the designated office or concerned Police Station at their place of stay within 24 hrs of the issue of permit, until and unless they are officially exempted from police reporting.

Afghanistan Nationals are issued Temporary Residential Permit at the immigration check post, they then are required to register themselves, within next seven days with the concerned FRRO/ FOR of their place of stay.

For Person whose previous nationality was Indian before acquiring foreign nationality:

Foreigners holding a valid PIO (person of Indian Origin) or OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card along with their National Passports are authorized to enter India without obtaining Indian VISA separately.

Important Note: Photocopies of the supporting documents are attached as proof and not the original ones.

Do I need to obtain Indian Tourist VISA prior to Arrival in India? Can I get Indian Tourist VISA on arrival at the Port of Arrival i.e. on arrival at the airport?

VISA ON ARRIVAL

India do provide VISA on arrival facilities for the nationals of following Eleven Countries (kindly note that if the parents ( both paternal or maternal) of resident of any of the following countries are Pakistani Nationals, are born in Pakistan or had been permanent resident of Pakistan, then VISA on arrival will not be issued to them, they need to obtain it from the Indian consulate prior to their arrival in India)

1. Finland 2. Japan 3. Luxembourg 4. New Zealand 5. Singapore

6. Cambodia 7. Vietnam 8. Phillipines 9.Myanmar 10. Indonesia

11. Laos

Visa on arrival in India is for a maximum validity of 30 days and isissued for single entry only. It can be obtained from the Immigration Offices at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata Airports. No other entry point or Immigration check post are authorized to issue on arrival VISA for India. If you require VISA for longer duration, you need to obtain it with Indian consulate before arriving to India. Tourist VISA on arrival is not issued to DIPLOMATIC / OFFICIAL Passport holders.

Indian tourist VISA on arrival is issued to only those persons from the above country, who is not a resident of India and neither employed in India, whose sole purpose of visiting India is for recreation, meeting friends and relatives, sightseeing etc. Further the person should have a sound financial standing to support his stay in India (production of return air tickets and availability of enough money to spend and support during their stay in India will be enough to prove it).The person should have a valid passport with minimum six months validity and should not be person non grata i.e not acceptable to the country because of any red corner notices, warning circular, criminal or political cases issued against him.

Can I extend my Duration of stay In India beyond validity of Indian Tourist VISA on Arrival? Or can I get changed my VISA type after Arrival in India?

Similar to the normal VISA, Tourist VISA on arrival in India is non extendable and non convertible, i.e the stay period can neither be extended, nor the type of VISA be changed. However in case of the following exception situations, on approaching the Ministry of Home affairs and on their satisfaction, the Type of VISA can be extended or converted:

• A copy of the Registered Marriage Certificate to be submitted to FRRO( Foreign Resident Registration office) along with the request for the change in VISA type and stay duration to the concerned FRO/ FRRO will then submit the report about their marital status which will inter alia include his/her antecedents, confirmation about their living together and security clearance.

What are the fees I need to pay for obtaining Indian Tourist VISA on Arrival?

A Fee of USD 60 Per Person (Including Children) or equivalent Indian Rupees will be applicable for VISA on arrival in India. Tourist VISA on arrival can be issued to a foreign national, for maximum of two entries in a calendar Year, provided there is a minimum gap of two months between the two subsequent visits.

What Documents I need to carry/ present to get Indian Tourist VISA on Arrival?

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR INDIAN TOURIST VISA ON ARRIVAL

The following documents are required for VISA on Arrival:

Passport with validity of atleast six months on the day of arrival, 02 Passport size photographs (3.5 cms x 3.5 cms), Photocopy of the passport, Hotel booking voucher if possible and confirmed return air tickets.

If I do not have any kind of VISA for India, can I still Transit or Stay in India for short duration?

TEMPORARY LANDING PERMITS

If you are not having a Valid Indian Tourist VISA on your Passport and you need to land in India, the immigration officer may grant you a Temporary Landing Permit (TLP) which will be valid for your stay of maximum upto 72 hrs. For this, the Immigration officer must be satisfied with the reason/purpose of the stay and the passenger should have a confirmed onward journey within 72 hours of the grant of Temporary Landing Permit. The Immigration officer however will retain your passport in this case. This facility is not available to the nationals of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran, Afganistan, Somalia,Nigeria and Ethiopia.

TEMPORARY LANDING FACILITY

If you are not having a Valid Indian Tourist VISA on your Passport and you need to stay in India, a Temporary Landing Facility (TLF) can be granted to foreigners valid for a period upto 15 days. This is granted only in emergent situation like death/illness in the family on production of bonafide proof and on satisfaction of FRRO/FRO cum District Superintendent of Police. For Further extension of stay in such cases, the foreigner concerned need to contact ad report to Ministry of Home Affairs, Foreigner Division, Jaisalmer House, 26 Man Singh Road, New Delhi.

Indian Currency Equivalent to USD 40 is charged for Temporary Landing Permit and Temporary Landing Facility.

Currency Regulation for Visitors/ Tourists Travelling to India

While visiting any country, it is always advisable and beneficial to know the basic laws governing your entrance, stay and exit to and from any country. Apart from the VISA regulations and identity documents required to visit a country, which will ensure your entry to a country, it is also very important to know the regulation with regards to the currency, that can be carried into and out of the country. Not only the quantum but the form in which the money is at your command will not only decide how you live and travel in a country, but will also decide what you can bring and take out of the country.

The regulation governing the bringing in and taking out the currency while travelling to and from India is defined under Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 and is implemented and regulated by Reserve Bank of India, the controlling bank in India.

It is very important for all visitors, whether tourists, students, businessmen or workers travelling to India to know and follow these regulations, else they might have to face hassle while travelling in India. The Most important and must know regulations are covered here under:

Currency regulations for Foreign/ Non Resident visiting India

- Foreigners or non resident Indians cannot bring with him Indian currency notes or coins, of any denomination, neither they are allowed to take out any Indian Currency notes or Coins. The visitors however can bring traveller cheques in INR with them.

- Foreigners or non resident Indians can bring unlimited foreign currency in India in cash, traveller cheques or bank notes however the following have to be followed :

A. You can carry Foreign currency undeclared if it is less than USD (Unites states Dollars)10,000 or equivalent (sum of currency notes, traveller cheques and bank notes) provided the total of currency note is less than USD (Unites states Dollars) 5000 .

B. In case you bring more than USD 10000 or equivalent ( or more than USD 5000 or equivalent in cash/ currency notes),you need to declare the amount at the immigration counter by filling in a Currency Declaration Form.

C.Foreigners can take back any unspent cash/ money with them, provided that the money is not more than what they have brought with them while arriving in India, and what have been declared by them in Currency Declaration Form.

To ensure that foreigners can take with them any unspent money, they are advised to get the money exchanged only at authorized money changers so that when they need,they can reconvert them to their currency and carry the same with them. They might need to show these certificate while taking the money back with them.

D.Foreigners or non resident Indians can however take the Indian currency while travelling to Nepal or Bhutan from India, provided they have the foreign currency exchange certificate with them confirming that they have got the Indian Currency by legally changing their foreign currency. Kindly note that they can only take currency in the denomination of notes of INR 100 or less. Indian Notes of denomination of INR 500 or INR 2000 are not accepted in Nepal.

For Indian Resident :

They can take outside India (other Than Nepal or Bhutan), currency in Indian Notes not exceeding INR 7500 Per Person

a) They can take outside India (other Than Nepal orBhutan), commemorative coins not exceeding two coins each. ( commemorative Coins are coins issued by Govt of India mint on special occassion or event and expressed in Indian Currency.

b) While coming back from a temporary visit to Outside India (other than Nepal or Bhutan) , they can bring currency notes of Reserve bank of India, not exceeding INR 7500 Per Person.

No Indian resident without the General or special permission of Reserve Bank of India is allowed to bring or take out foreign currency.

Export of foreign exchange and currency notes :-

An authorised person may send out of India foreign currency acquired in normal course of business through the following means :

a) Cheques drawn on foreign currency account maintained in accordance with Foreign Exchange Management (Foreign Currency Accounts by a person resident in India) Regulations, 2000;

b) Foreign exchange obtained by him by drawal from an authorised person in accordance with the provisions of the Act or the rules or regulations or directions made or issued there under

c) currency in the safes of vessels or aircrafts which has been brought into India or which has been taken on board a vessel or aircraft with the permission of the Reserve Bank

Naturoville Dehradun - a new destination in the making

July 16'2011, was a day unlike another day in my recent past, I was travelling to a very new destination after a very long time. The weather was just about perfect, being monsoon season clouds were present in the sky like an ominous sign of good new things to come, it started drizzling lightly till the time we left Delhi. It was a group of travel agent representatives who had assembled with the purpose of exploring this new property - Naturoville Spa Resort,nestled amongst natural surrounding on Dehradun Rishikesh Highway, which strives to become a new destination in itself, the trip obviously sponsored by the hotel itself, as part of its promotion strategy. Free trip to destinations had never excited me much, but the fact that after a long time, I was getting a chance to visit the foothills of Himalayas, that too in monsoon times, have excited me. On the top of it, I was getting a chance to visit Haridwar - The doorstep to the abode of gods.

We started from Delhi at around 0930 hrs in the morning, it was supposed to be a 5.5 hrs trip to Haridwar - about 220 kms from Delhi, from where the hotel is just 20 minutes drive, uphill 20 kms towards Dehradun .The day was beautiful, witnessing the foreplay of sun and clouds, it was perfect for the drive. Driving through the now concrete jungle of Ghaziabad, I was amazed to see the expanse of the city, wondering where the open spaces of this quaint town has gone. I just but could not stop myself to wonder and ponder on the time line when we will get starved to see open green fields and actually have to travel miles to see the same. The time seems not to be too far away. Our first stop was at Meerut, at the famous shop of Jain Shikanji wala, one of the most famous shop of fresh lemon water in Meerut, which over the years have grown into a big restaurant offering mouth water veg delicacies for the travelers. Our organizers picked up some snacks here and along with the same beer bottles, fruit juices and soft drinks. The drinking and merry making session was to begin, taking all of us to the bachelor days, enjoying the bachelor party. I being a strict non drinker, was confined to enjoy my fruit drink and witness the outside world from my seat through the small window.

We kept on driving, and I started to realize that the journey will take longer to than the promised 5.5 hrs, as if I mind the same. The next stop of ours was around lunch time, we had been in the bus for almost 5 hrs now, the traffic situation and the road conditions were pathetic, we were slowly moving. We entered into the beautiful and one of the greenest resort midway motel I have seen, that of Moolchands, 110 kms from Delhi around Muzzaffarnagar. The greenery at the entrance and back lawn, was wonderful, small chilli plants have been beautifully used to decorate the entrance, with small chillies decorating the plants in the hue of red and green,coupled with beautiful flowers, it was a perfect garden to enjoy the beauty of nature. The inside of the restaurant was bustling with people indicating to its popularity. The lunch was ordered and the food was good. The veg Biryani we ordered along with Chilli Paneer was tasty. Service was bit slow, but far better than few of the other motels I have seen.

Moolchands Entrance

It was already 1530 hrs and we have reached only midway. People started to ebb the organizers to speed up the journey and the driver was also pressed for the same. The driver started to rush, to ensure that we reach our hotel,Naturoville Spa Resort in time and we have enough time to explore it. Traffic, due to single lane and under construction was congested and traffic was slow. As we entered Haridwar it started to rain, the weather was turning out to be romantic, but the traffic more harder to negotiate. Late evening we at last reached the beautiful spa resort of Naturoville.Nestled between independent bungalows and overlooking the Himalayan Ranges, this beautiful resort was like an oasis in desert. We checked in at the hotel, which was handled quite smoothly, the resort was more or less empty. The reason can range from being a peak off season for travel to it being new and less publicized resort.

Naturoville Entrance

The rooms at Naturoville were king size with a king size bed, equipped with LCD television with cable connection, mini fridge, Writing Desk and material to write your experiences and thoughts, Electric Tea Coffee maker with ample amount of refills of milk, sugar and coffee. The Bathroom was of decent size with all the necessary amenities, toilteries were good. Enough Bath towels were present and presence of Bathroom Sleeper means the hotel have taken care of all the basic necessities and facilities in the room to bring it to the standard of 4 star resort. We had few moments to freshen up before we were called for the orientation tour of the property. After a brief orientation , we were taken to the cocktail Party in the banquets of the hotel with snacks and drinks being served. The snacks served were interesting combination of paneer dishes with potato and non veg. Situated next to the swimming pool and health club, on first floor, our banquet hall provided us with the option of overlooking the pool from Balcony.

Well tired after a long journey, around 1030 hrs, we decided to have our Dinner, and the taste of first food from the kitchens of the hotel. The restaurant was nestled into the corner, in a separate building from the one which had our rooms. The restaurant can be approached through beautiful pathways, which further lead to the Swimming pool and the health club & gym. The food provided was decent, although a bit less spicy than I would have liked, but being a health resort, I could have understood it. What amazed me is , despite being an Ayurvedic Health resort , the buffet served to us had both non veg and a healthy mix of fatty food including preparations of Indian Cottage Cheese ( Called Paneer). Nevertheless we ate to our hearts content. We followed it up with the stroll around the property and circled the property alongside the road circumventing it. We retired to our room early, as next day we had to be up early, we were supposed to get the experience of Ayurvedic Messages and treatments, I will be having first of my professional massage, although I had experienced home massage several time in my home.

Next morning we woke up early and after taking bath, around 0600 hrs, went to the ayurvedic centre. We strolled around the complex exploring the unlocked ayurvedic massage rooms, jacuzzi, steam bath with spanking new instruments and no one to attend to. This new facility, which is as calm as the lull before the storm was soon going to be busy with the stream of visitors and staff. Nevertheless ,we strolled around the facility and the gardens surroundings. Around 0730 hrs, first of the staff started to trickle in and by 0800, it was busy with the massages being offered to the prospective client seeker i.e travel agent representatives. I too went to meet the Ayurvedic Doctor and he advised an Ayurvedic massage to me. I was going to have first professional ayurvedic massage of my life. I was assigned to a young boy from Kerala, who have been working in this field for couple of years. He started with the gentle massage of hands followed by leg, torso and finally head. As he progressed with his soothin g massage and the soft music in the background, soon relaxed my body and mind and I slipped into slumber. An hour passed, without me realizing the passage of time and the massage was over. I was woken up from the relaxed state of mind, wet in Oil and not wearing anything apart from the traditional langot (cloth to cover Groin area), I was directed to the steam bath, where I had the first steam bath of my life. The inside was humid and hot with steam, I soon started to perspire, by the time I came out, I was wet and my skin was shining. I went for the bath, dressed up and left to the restaurant for the breakfast.

The breakfast was a mix of North Indian, South Indian and continental, with fresh juice and eggs made to order. Eggs being served in an Ayurvedic Resort and Spa was new to me, but it seems that the hotel have identified itself as , not only the pure health resort or treatment center, but a resort good for relaxation and enjoyment, also offering Ayurvedic massages to relax and rejuvenate. It is meant for family, business and leisure tourist alike.

Around 1200 hrs, it was time to say goodbye to the beautiful resort of Naturoville and proceed back to home in Delhi. I was hoping to reach home by 1730 hrs, as I had a movie ticket to watch the evening show, but. that seems to be a distant reality. We left, the descent was smooth, the weather amazingly cool with light drizzle and we soon were in Haridwar, next to Har Ki Pauri. People insisted in stopping there, We have come to Haridwar, how can we go back without taking a dip at Holy Ganges?? someone exclaimed. The bus was stopped and everyone got out, people started to fill their bottles with the Ganges water, to be taken back home as memorabilia. The water was muddy due to the recent rains, but the amazing quality of Ganges water is that it does not turn bad or smell, however long you keep it.It is believed that a dip at the River Ganges at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar washes all your sins, so all we travel agents , who have sinned knowingly and unknowingly took a dip in the Holy water and became pure again. The watching of ritual of bathing and prayers on the river Bank of Ganges, is a sight to watch, culture to experience and will transcend you to a religious mode, even if you are atheist. Well everybody took their share of cans filled with Ganges water, to be delivered to their homes and neighbours, which later will be used by them in their prayers.

The weather again become cloudy and from there on, it was race against time and traffic to reach Delhi, as soon as possible. The driver did a good job, negotiating the traffic and ensuring that we reach Delhi at the earliest. Being a Sunday, the traffic was comparatively less and we soon were in Delhi but not before it was already 2100 hrs that we were in Delhi.

The journey to the new Destination of Naturoville Resort Spa, Dehradun was hence completed, we returned to our homes refreshed from the excursion and ayurvedic massages and light of our sins with bathe in River Ganges.

Our mundane life was to begin again till we get another chance to visit any other destination...