Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier

WELCOME TO ASIA We are so happy to welcome you along for your Bunnik tour. Each tour is planned with great care, as if it were for our own family. For us it’s about sharing the joy of travel and discovery. You’ll gain real insight into every destination you visit with the support of our expert local guides and have a load of fun travelling in the comfort of a small group. In this Tour Information Dossier we’ve compiled some useful information on the countries you will visit on your upcoming tour. We hope this informs you, excites you and enhances your holiday time in Asia. Happy Travels! Marion, Dennis & Sacha Bunnik

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier TOUR GUIDE When you’re travelling, your guide will be an invaluable resource to you as they will be able to explain all the different cultural norms and traditions as well as offering dining and sightseeing suggestions during your free time. All Bunnik Tours’ guides have a great love for their country and culture and will be happy to share this with you as well as answer any questions you may have.

TOUR ETIQUETTE Travelling in a small group is half the fun of touring and we regularly receive feedback from our clients remarking how well everyone got along on tour and lifelong friendships often develop. However, sweeping statements and generalisations can be offensive to others. We would therefore like to remind you that other people’s religious beliefs, political and sexual orientations may differ from your own, and we respectfully ask you to be mindful of this while on tour. Country visited India

Capital

Population

New Delhi

Language

1.25 billion

Religion

Hindi, English and 16 other official languages

Time Zone

Hinduism

5.5 hours behind AEST *

Voltage 220240v

Dialling code +91

*Time differences depend on daylight savings.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS – AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY Country

Address

Tel

Fax

India

No. 1/50 G Shantipath Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110-021

+ 91 11 4139 9900

+91 11 2687 2228

If an emergency occurs while you are en route to your destination or while you are on tour, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in your documentation wallet.

WEATHER For most of the country, October through to March is the best time to visit. During these months, temperatures range from 5-15C in the north to 19-30C in the south. March to June is dry and hot (30-44C), and June to October is monsoon time (anywhere between 50-200cm of rain can fall in one season). The best times to visit Darjeeling and other mountain areas are March, April, October and November. Obviously, India is less crowded with tourists during the off-seasons, but it can be so hot in the spring and summer that it’s not possible to stay outdoors for long periods. During the rainy period, the monsoon washes away many of the roads in game parks and rural areas (south-eastern India has a second rainy period during the cool season). If you’re going to India during spring or summer, you’ll want to stick to the hill stations (15-21C). During the winter, avoid Kashmir (0-7C), unless you’re going skiing, and Ladakh – one of the coldest inhabited regions on Earth.

WHAT TO WEAR Men: as a general rule, urban Indian men wear western dress - some variation of long pants and a shirt. Taking comfortable cotton shirts, and loose, cotton or cotton blend trousers would be ideal. Pure cotton shirts make a huge difference when it's hot. Women: dressing to fit in is more important for women who want to avoid unnecessary hassles. The standard advice is to cover your shoulders and your thighs, and avoid showing cleavage. Loose, cotton clothing is highly recommended with skirts/pants coming below the knee. Travelling to India is a great opportunity to wear colour – everyone else there does so you’ll fit right in!

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier Try dressing like a local: most Indian women wear some kind of traditional garment - the sari or the salwar kameez (baggy pants, long tunic top, and a scarf thrown over the shoulder). Saris are extremely difficult for Westerners to adjust to, but salwars are easy to wear and available ready-made everywhere. Made of cotton, they are cool, flowing and elegant and so comfortable to wear. (We can recommend FabIndia/Anokhi outlets). Due to global weather changes, temperatures may deviate from the norms. We recommend layered easy care, loose-fitting clothing, an item or two for rain or unseasonable temperatures and something warmer. Always pack extra layers regardless of the season you’re travelling in, as the weather can be unpredictable and it’s better to pack a few extra pieces just in case. Cool cotton clothing, a hat, sunscreen and a good pair of sunglasses, and most importantly, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. When visiting mosques and temples, long sleeves, loose pants or long skirts are essential.

CURRENCY The recommended currency to take to India is the AUD. Once there, you should then be able to change some into the local currency, ensuring you change small amounts into small denominations. Advise your bank of your travel plans so that they can make a note of it. Otherwise they may cancel your credit card as a safety measure due to the overseas transactions. Also make a note of the 24-hour emergency contact number of the bank or building society which issued your credit card in the unlikely event that your card is lost or stolen. Whenever possible use ATMs when the banks are open (Mon – Fri) so that if a machine ‘eats’ your card you can then deal with it straight away. It is always advisable to carry a supply of cash in addition to your credit card. We advise that you exchange some money into the local currency at the airport even if the exchange rate is not the best, this way you’ll have money to get a drink, snack or give a tip during those first few hours of arrival. Your guide will be able to advise you on where the best places are to exchange money. Rupee (INR; symbol Rs) is the official currency of India. Notes are in denominations of Rs 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10.

GETTING AROUND When catching taxis, have small change on you and choose one with a meter, if it doesn’t have one then negotiate the price before getting in. Also, ask your guide or hotel staff the names of reputable taxi companies. Ask for the most direct route without any stops offs, shopping or detours on the way! If travelling by taxi don’t allow any other passengers to travel with you (this does not apply to auto rickshaws). Taxis charge a minimum fare of about Rs 8 and auto-rickshaws about Rs 5 for the first kilometre. There are no extras, except for luggage for which Rs 5 is charged per piece and a late night charge for travel between 11 pm and 5 am. Tips are not expected. There are two varieties of taxi in Delhi: yellow-top taxis, which run on a meter, and private taxis, whose drivers charge a fixed amount based on distance travelled. You can reserve a taxi by phone or get one at fixed stands found all over the city. Many larger hotels have taxi stands in front.

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier Be sure to check that the meter is on before starting your trip, and be prepared to pay about five times what the meter reads upon reaching your destination. This higher figure reflects fuel charges and is entirely legal. If you are worried about being overcharged, ask to see the driver's fare chart, which gives the approximate fares based on distance. Some drivers will try to negotiate a fixed rate and you can usually bargain it down somewhat. Auto rickshaw fares should be about one-third of taxi fares. Most drivers understand some English, so explaining where you want to go should not be a problem. Typically, taxis are not air-conditioned, but some companies have a few that are. Ask first, if it's a concern.

When catching taxis, have small change on you and choose one with a meter, if it doesn’t have one then negotiate the price before getting in. Also, ask your guide or hotel staff the names of reputable taxi companies.

HEALTH & WELLBEING • For specific vaccination and health issues/alerts please contact the Travel Doctor (Travellers Medical & Vaccination Centre) on 1300 658 844 or online at www.traveldoctor.com.au. • We recommend taking your usual cold and flu medication as well as diarrhoea and vomiting medication. It can be tricky finding the equivalent to what you’re used to taking when you’re overseas. • If you do become ill while away please seek medical treatment as soon as possible so that you can get back to enjoying your holiday and to prevent the spread of infection amongst the group. We recommend using hand sanitising gel before meals and upon entering the bus. • For general health and wellbeing on the tour please ensure you wash your hands frequently, especially before eating. Carry insect repellent and sunscreen and a supply of disinfecting wipes or cleansing gel which can be found at most chemists. • Travel sickness can be an issue for some people. In this instance we recommend travel sickness pills. • Keep well hydrated by making sure you purchase enough water to drink and for brushing teeth etc.

STAYING SAFE • Keep your passport safe at all times. We recommend using the safe in your hotel room – and always remember to clear the safe before checking out of the hotel. • Write down a list of emergency numbers and email addresses eg. bank details, relatives/friends, doctor. This way if you lose your phone you’ll still be able to contact people if you need to. • Take twice the amount of medication than you’ll need and divide it in two and store them in separate bags – one of those being your hand luggage. • When exploring on your own please take a business card from the hotel so that you can always find your way back and only take the necessities with you – leave your valuables in your hotel room safe. • It never hurts to tell your fellow travellers of your plans!

POWER POINTS

Type D (most common)

Type C

We recommend purchasing a universal plug adaptor which can be used to fit all electrical sockets.

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier

INDIA A trip to India is truly a wakeup for your senses. You'll travel through dusty heat (or snowy cold in the north), sharing roads with a parade of bicycles, auto-rickshaws, sputtering motorcycles, tinsel-draped trucks, camel carts and the occasional cow. At India's major sites and markets, the chaos continues: throngs of beggars, hawkers, tourists, near-naked holy men, business people, children and scurrying monkeys. Amid the cacophony, some of the globe's most majestic and historical sites will emerge – the Taj Mahal, the Ganges and the Himalayas. India, with all its variety, feels more like a series of countries strung together than a cohesive whole. As you move from region to region, you'll be exposed to dramatic changes in cuisine, dress, language, religion, custom and tradition. Some parts of the country are rife with modern conveniences, and Indians there live in fashionable real estate, surrounded by the trappings of 21st century consumer capitalism. The growth of the economy is due, in part, to a growing communications industry. Malls, multiplexes and lifestyle stores are opening all over. Yet in some areas, people still don't have access to clean water, electricity, adequate food and medical care. Many people, attracted to cities in search of jobs, stay in clumsy shacks because of unaffordable real estate, resulting in slum regions. This is especially prevalent in India's commercial capital, Mumbai, where the government is building multi-storeyed housing complexes to accommodate these people. With these contradictions come complications. The mass of humanity that populates India requires that you be patient, flexible and tolerant, which can be difficult if you're troubled by the disparities between India's rigid social classes. The country's religious conflicts and ongoing dispute with Pakistan are also concerns, though these events have been largely confined to certain regions. Most travellers will find these difficulties well worth the rewards as India remains an incomparable travel experience.

FAST FACTS • The name ‘India’ is derived from the river Indus, the valleys around which were the home of the early settlers. The Aryan worshippers referred to the river Indus as the Sindhu. • Chess was invented in India. • The world’s highest cricket ground is in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. Built in 1893 after levelling a hilltop, this cricket pitch is 2,444 metres above sea level. • India has the largest number of Post Offices in the world. • The largest employer in India is the Indian Railways, employing over a million people. • The world’s first university was established in Takshila in 700 BC. • Ayurveda is the earliest school of medicine known to mankind. The father of medicine, Charaka, consolidated ayurveda some 2,500 years ago.

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier • India was one of the richest countries until the time of the British rule in the early 17th century. Christopher Columbus, attracted by India’s wealth, was looking for a sea route to India when he discovered America by mistake. • Algebra, trigonometry and calculus also originated in India. Quadratic equations were used by Sridharacharya in the 11th century. The largest numbers that the Greeks and Romans used were 106 whereas Hindus used numbers as big as 10*53 (ie. 10 to the power of 53) with specific names as early as 5,000 BC during the Vedic period. Even today the largest number used is Terra: 10*12. • Until 1896, India was the only source of diamonds in the world. • India exports software to 90 countries. • The four religions born in India - Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, are followed by 25% of the world's population. • There are 300,000 active mosques in India, more than in any other country, including the Muslim world. • Yoga has its origins in India and has existed for over 5,000 years.

LOCAL ETIQUETTE AND HELPFUL TIPS • In India, you use your left hand to clean yourself after using the toilet so it has extremely negative associations. Always give and receive anything with your right hand, or at least with both hands together. If you give change, accept something, or eat something with your left hand, it will be noticed, though politely not commented on. • Shoes, and to a lesser degree, feet, also have unclean associations. Keep your shoes on the floor. Remove your shoes for places of worship, when visiting people's homes, and sometimes even in some shops and businesses. If you see shoes arranged near the door, assume you should take yours off too. • The head wobble so common in India means "yes" and not "no". • At some point you’re likely to be stared at. Staring at strangers is not considered rude in India – people feel quite free to look at anyone or anything that’s different. Many people on the streets will have had little contact with foreigners. What you look like, what you do, and how you behave will generate interest among the locals. • All but the very poorest wear freshly washed and ironed clothes. This clashes with Westerner's casual, easy-care approach to clothing, but it's worth the effort to be clean and neat. Street side ironing booths will iron anything for a couple of rupees. Even the cheapest hotel will offer some kind of laundry and ironing service. In India, personal cleanliness is the most basic of virtues, and most people are fighting a daily battle to maintain whatever level of personal cleanliness and order that their socio-economic situation allows. • Motioning for someone to ‘come here’ with the palm face up and moving as if you are throwing salt over your shoulder is considered impolite in India. The Indian way is with the palm facing down and moving like you're doing the 'dog paddle'. • Among shop keepers there may be pride in getting the ‘best’ out of a customer. (In the same way, consumers take pride in their ability to shrewdly bargain.) If you can work through the process of reaching an acceptable price with humour and mutual respect, you've arrived! • Many people eat with their hands, although some restaurants prefer the use of cutlery – just look around and see what others are doing. If you want to try it, here are some tips. Firstly, wash your hands! Then, using your right hand, make a small pile of rice on your plate, blended with one or more bits of curry, and then pick it up with a twist of the wrist and holding onto it with the four fingers of your hand. (The thumb remains free.) Keeping the food level, maneuver your fingers to your mouth until the tips of your fingers are almost, or just, touching your lower lip. Don't put your fingers into your mouth. Use your thumb to pop the food inside. It’s a simple technique, and it works. A meal or two of practicing and you'll be eating like a local!

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier • Most of the toilets you’ll encounter will most likely be western-style but here are some tips on using the squat toilet. The first thing to do, before you use the toilet, is to pour a bit of water down it – this makes flushing easier! Stand on the two footpads at the edge of the keyhole shaped bowl with the large opening at the back. Once done, pour a bucket of water down the bowl to flush! • It is best to avoid public displays of affection as this may attract unwanted remarks and stares from onlookers. • You may see lots of beggars on the streets, the main roads and at the traffic signals, begging for alms. It can be quite a difficult thing to negotiate as some people are genuine while others are run by criminal gangs, which should obviously not be supported. We recommend that you do not give money to beggars, especially in full view of others as this can attract lots more! We recommend that you look to your guide for help and advice with this. • Beware of pickpockets when boarding trains. If travelling by train, never leave your luggage/valuables unattended especially when the train is not moving. People not travelling on the train will hop on and off the train looking for an easy target – a bag left open or unattended.

DINING Indian cuisine ranges from the simple and bland to the lavish and complexly spicy. Each region has its specialty cuisine, though some dishes are available throughout the country. Curries are popular, as are thali, a vegetarian or meat meal that includes rice, chapattis, sauces, various side dishes and curds. You'll also find dhal (a lentil soup) and idli (steamed rice cakes) just about everywhere you go. Wheat-based breads like roti, naan, chapatti or puri and cooked rice with a variety of vegetable, lentil, fruit and yoghurt based accompaniments form an Indian meal. It is common to share food on the table. Water is served with meals, as well as drinks such as jaljira (a digestive made with crushed cumin) and fruit juices. Any dish prepared in the Kashmiri-style will be delicate and have lots of fruits and nuts. Meat lovers visiting Kashmir itself should find a restaurant offering a wazwan, a traditional feast containing as many as 17 meat dishes. Indian breads are superlative – there's none better than naan (baked in a tandoori oven), but also try papadum, a wafer-thin lentil-flour bread. Here are some tips for deciphering menus: Pakoras are fried vegetable fritters, and samosas are breaded, fried vegetable triangles, both served as snacks. Dum aloo is a wonderfully spicy potato dish found in the north and served with Indian bread. Buff refers to water-buffalo meat, and mutton is usually goat. Curd, a mild yoghurt, is often served with meals. Fruit lassis are refreshing, yoghurt-based drinks. For dessert, try kheer (rice pudding). The western region of India is becoming popular as a wine-producing region. You may want to try the local brands available throughout India. We generally advise against eating from street stalls, unless the food is freshly cooked before your eyes. Indian food is eaten with the fingers of the right hand only. In addition to Indian foods, Western and Chinese restaurants abound, and some of the best meals may be had in hotel restaurants. If you want dairy, opt for local, popular packaged brands of ice cream and dairy products at restaurants and shops. If you're in an area where you don't trust the food, a variety of packaged biscuits, potato chips and other similar items are widely available. So are bottled drinks and fruit juices. Coconut water is available widely and can be refreshing. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice unless you are certain it was made with purified water. Please destroy plastic bottles when disposing. It is the most common cause for the spread of water-borne diseases. In remote areas where it is difficult to get water to wash your hands, a bottle of antibacterial liquid wash is very helpful. Many restaurants use water filters to purify drinking water. Indian brands of soft drinks tend to be extremely sweet. Some states prohibit the sale of alcohol. If you want to drink liquor everywhere you go, get an All India Liquor Permit when you get your visa (or from the Government Tourist Offices in Mumbai, Calcutta, Delhi or Chennai).

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier The western region of India is becoming popular as a wine-producing region. You may want to try the local brands available throughout India.

Important: When dining at buffets (i.e. breakfast) please refrain from taking food away with you to ‘save’ for later! If you feel that you’ll need snacks between meals, pack some dried fruit, nuts, muesli bars etc.

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS Among the good buys are fabrics (including silks), clothing and shawls, paintings and prints, religious iconography, dhurries, oriental carpets, dolls, musical instruments, tea, saffron, batiks, fossils and items made of brass, wood, marble, copper, bronze, jute, crystal, papier mache and bamboo. Well-made souvenirs are available from most good hotels, but for the real Indian buying experiences head for any local market. The national and state government emporium stores have high-quality items, but prices are usually higher than elsewhere and you can’t bargain. Bargaining is the name of the game almost everywhere else. Depending on the product, you may want to offer one-third to two-thirds of the initial asking price and haggle from there however please remember that the aim of the game is to obtain a good deal for yourself as well as for the shopkeeper. If you see brand-name products in unexpected places (Gucci bags or US brand candy bars offered by street vendors), they may not be legitimate. Counterfeit and copycat goods abound. During your city and monumental visits you will come across many hawkers. These people make their living by selling small articles. The hawkers often follow visitors and try to sell their articles. Don’t get irritated and do not retaliate. We suggest you keep moving and do not interact with them, this will deter them and they will leave you alone. If you do like the articles and wish to buy from the hawkers then please keep in mind that you can bargain with them for the price. If you are doubtful speak to your tour leader or the escort.

PLACES WE VISIT IN INDIA Mumbai Mumbai, like New York City is located on an island. It is the fourth most populous city in the world and is classified as the richest city in India. It is home to Bollywood, India’s wonderful film industry and to the gem trade and is also well known as India’s fashion capital. Mumbai is a frantically busy, vibrant city (and can often be vastly overwhelming), full of grand colonial architecture, local markets and bazaars and many and varied temples and mosques. Sights to see around Mumbai are Elephanta Island, the Gateway of India, the famous Hanging Garden, Babulnath Temple, Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach and visit to Mumbai wouldn’t be complete without witnessing Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat (the Washing Place) where Mumbai’s dirty washing gets washed and aired. Udaipur A fascinating walled city, Udaipur sits on the shores of Lake Pichola. It's renowned for its palaces – the white marble Maharajah's Palace, the Winter Palace (with its inlaid tile, mirrors and mosaics of peacocks), the Jag Mandir (an 18th century yellow-sandstone palace) and Jag Niwas (an 18th century granite and marble palace). Jodhpur The city that gave its name to riding breeches is dominated by an imposing fort sitting atop a hill. Inside the citadel is a collection of buildings famed for their beautiful and colourful decorations – the Royal Harem is filled with extraordinary latticework. You're also likely see snake charmers. Watch for the gate that's nearly covered with white handprints – marked by women as they exited the city on their way to throw themselves onto their husbands' funeral pyres. Manvar Ensconced in the mystical sand dunes of the Thar Desert, Manvar Desert Camp is an oasis in the middle of the desert. The pristine beauty,

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier the unbelievable silence and tranquillity is truly awe inspiring. From here, you can head out to explore the sand dunes by camel. Jaisalmer The Oasis of Jaisal is the only inhabited spot for kilometres in the Great Indian Desert. The walled city of Jaisalmer, built of sandstone, is dramatically perched on a flat-topped hill. The town contains several interesting Jain temples, havelis (intricately carved buildings), a maze of narrow alleys and two medieval estates, Patwon-ki-Haveli and Salim-kiHaveli. Residents wear especially brilliant colours, perhaps to make up for the starkness of the surrounding terrain. Enjoy a sunset camel ride over the dunes and experience the true desert. Bikaner Called the Desert City; Bikaner is stark, yet beautiful with great Hindu and Mughal art. Similar in setting to Jaisalmer, Bikaner is a walled city with an important 16th century fort containing intricately carved palaces and temples. The fort, which was attacked repeatedly but never conquered, is remarkably well preserved. Jaipur This walled Rajasthani capital is famous for the unusual rose-colored sandstone architecture that gives the city its nickname, the Pink City. Local Maharajahs built quite a few magnificent structures there, but two are must-sees. The early 18th century Jantar Mantar is the largest and best preserved of the five observatories built by astronomer Prince Jai Singh II. The observatory complex is fascinating – the prince had the huge stone structures built to measure time, chart the declination of celestial bodies and predict eclipses. Not far out of town are the 18th century Amber Palace and Fort built to symbolise the strength of the king with many dazzling mirrored walls. Ranthambore National Park The Ranthambore National Park was originally established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in 1955 by the Government of India. It was renamed in 1980 as the Ranthambore National Park and today it’s one of the biggest and most well-known parks in Northern India. Famously known as a former hunting ground of the Maharajas, Ranthambore is now a major wildlife spot and is one of the best places in India to see tigers. Agra Agra is best known as the location of the Taj Mahal. Though millions of pictures have been taken of it, none do it justice. The elegant structure was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child. It took some 20,000 labourers 22 years to build the Taj, and every detail is absorbing: the classical gardens, the reflecting pool and the elaborate patterns of semiprecious stones decorating the white marble. So precious is the Taj, more than 200 factories in the area have been shut down to prevent air pollution from discolouring the marble. Hours are from sunrise to sunset. The sun’s hot rays reflecting from the white marble can make some people dizzy, so take along sunglasses, a hat and a water bottle. Also in Agra is the Agra Fort, built under the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565, it contains numerous palaces and a white marble mosque. Delhi Ancient and modern India collide with startling results in Delhi. It’s as common to cross paths with entrepreneurs as it is with priests caring for sacred cows or child beggars in rags. Cars from the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers jostle for space with elephants and camels on the city streets. Parts of the city are planned with manicured gardens, natural forests and ridges, and other areas are crisscrossed by dark,

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier congested alleys that dead-end into centuries-old mosques or palace ruins. As the capital of the country, Delhi is a hotbed of political intrigue. It is also a mélange of different cultures, as people from all over the country go there in pursuit of jobs and dreams. Travellers will find that the city’s long history and mix of cultures have spawned an array of architectural styles, religious sites, eclectic museums, vibrant shopping arcades, a host of art and culture centres, and sumptuous cuisines.

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier USEFUL PHRASES English

Hindi

Tamil

Telugu

One

Ek

Ondru

okati

Two

Doo

Irandu

rendu

Three

Teen

Moondru

moodu

Four

Char

Nangu

naalugu

Five

Panch

Iaindhu

iydu

Six

Cheh

Aaru

aaru

Seven

saat

Yezhu

eadu

Eight

aath

Yettu

enimidi

Nine

naau

Onbadhu

tommidi

Ten

dus

Pathu

padi

Hello

Namaste

Vanakkam

Namaskaramu

Good morning

Shubh Prabhat

Kalai Vanakkam

shubhodayamu

Good evening

Namaste

Malai Vanakkam

shubhasayankalamu

Goodbye

Alwida

Poittu vaanga

mallikalustamu

Please

Kripya

Thayavu seidhu

No equivalent

Thank you

Dhanyawad

Nandri

Santosham

Yes

Haan

Aamam

Avunu

No

Nahi

Illai

Kadu

Do you speak English?

Kya aap English bolte hain?

English pesa theriyuma

I don’t understand

Mujhe samajh nahi aaya

Puriyavillai

meeru english matladagalara naaku arthamukadu

Please write it down

Kripya Likh de

Ezhuthikollungal

rasu kondi

How much does it cost?

Kitne ka hai?

Idhan vilai evvalavu

enta karchu avutundi

Too expensive

Bahut mehenga hai

Romba athigam

chala retu

Where is…?

Kaha Hai?

Yenge

ekkada

Telephone

Telephone

Tholaipesi

Telephone

Toilet

Toilet

Kazhippidam or kazhivarai

Toilet

Tea

Chai

Theneer

Tea

Coffee

Coffee

Kapy

Coffee

Wine

Wine

Madhu

Wine

Beer

Beer

Madhu

Beer

Bottled water

Pani

Suthamana thanneer

Bottled water

Cheers!

Donet exist in hindi litreture

Kondadudhal

santosham

I am allergic to…

Mujhe allergy hai ……

Ovvamai

I am allergic to…

Does this have … in it?

Kya yeha hai ….. isme?

Adhu idhil irukka

idi indulovunda

Peanuts

Mungfuli

Verkadalai

chenakkayalu

Nuts

Don’t have any word for this

Kadalai

vittanalu

Seafood

Seafood

Kadal unavu

samudram annam

Shellfish

Shelfish

Shellfish

chepa

Meat

Meat is okay

Mamisam

mamsamu

Gluten

Gluten

Gluten

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier Wheat

Aata

Gothumai

pindi

Eggs

Ande

Muttai

guddulu

Dairy

Doodh wale

Paal

dairy

Pork

Pork is okay

Pandri

pandi mamsamu

Lactose

Lactose

Paloottudhal

Soy

Soy

Soy

I am…

Mai

Naan

nenu

Vegetarian

Shakahari

Saivam

saka hari

Vegan

Shakahari

Vegan

No word for this

Celiac

Caeliac

Caeliac

Caeliac

Diabetic

Diabetic

Sakkarai viyathi

Diabetic

Please note that this information is indicative only and subject to change. Bunnik Tours does not accept any liability for incorrect or incomplete information.

BEFORE YOU GO… ASIA PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS Advise your Travel Agent of any dietary requirements and seat requests Inform your credit card provider that you’ll be overseas Have you had any required vaccinations? Contact your local Doctor or the Travelvax Centre on 1300 360 164 Register your details with www.smartraveller.gov.au Arrange for a spare copy of your itinerary to be left with a friend or relative Check with your mobile phone network provider that your phone is compatible overseas Exchange currency, arrange a cash passport/credit card or similar If you haven’t already, have a read through all your tour documents as they will provide you with lots of useful information Arrange for Australia Post to hold onto your mail for the time you’re away Cancel your newspaper delivery / Foxtel, etc. Have a friend / relative water your plants Scan a copy of your passport and important documentation and email to yourself

PACKING LIST SUGGESTIONS Travel documents e.g. passport(s), travel insurance certificate and air e-tickets Day-pack to carry your personal belongings while out and about Money belt and luggage padlocks Local language phrase book Ear plugs, eye mask and/or travel pillow Travel kettle and tea/coffee as some hotels may not provide these Snacks such as muesli bars, nuts and crackers which you can snack on throughout the day First aid kit and personal medications (a doctor’s letter may be needed if carrying large amounts) Sun protection e.g. hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm and insect repellent Antibacterial wipes or hand gel Electricity conversion plugs, spare batteries and/or memory card Torch and/or alarm clock. Comfortable walking shoes and a pair of evening shoes

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Colours of Rajasthan Tour Information Dossier Clothing to suit weather conditions (refer to our brochure or website - www.bunniktours.com.au for weather charts). Also a light jumper, a waterproof jacket/poncho/umbrella for cooler weather or wet conditions, thermal clothing is a good space saver and great for layering Bathers *Trousers, shorts/skirt that reach below the knee **Shawl or scarf to carry in your day-pack for added sun protection or those cooler night times (and are handy for temple visits, etc)

NOTE The packing list has been compiled from suggestions by previous passengers and local staff – it is only a guide and Bunnik Tours recommends that you check recent weather conditions before your departure.

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