Quick Facts

All travellers need a visa to enter India.

There are three types of visas for tourists, available from Indian Consular Offices around the world:

• 15-day single / double entry visa
• 90-day visa
• Multiple-entry visa valid for six months

There are certain places in India that require special permits. These areas include Sikkim, the North-Eastern states, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshwadweep.

Business visas are valid for one or more years with multiple entries. A letter from a sponsoring organization indicating nature of business, duration of stay, and places / companies to be visited is often required in order to attain this visa.

For more information please contact the Indian consulate closest to you or visit the Embassy of India online.

Visa Requirements from the India Tourism Web site

The unit of currency is the rupee (INR), and is divided into 100 paisa.

Money and travellers cheques can be exchanged at the banks exchange counters. Major credit cards are accepted in the hotel and departmental stores. Cash is required in the local markets.

24-hour automated teller machines (ATMs) are widely available throughout the city, although they may be difficult to find once beyond the city limits.

Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.

INR 1.00 equals:

There is a 10% luxury tax and 7.416% service tax on all hotel rooms in India.

Expect a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 12.5% to 20% on food and beverage purchases and 4.944% service tax.

We also levy a 5% Service Charge.

Tipping is not compulsory. However, it is acceptable to give a gratuity for good service.

Bank Hours
10am - 4pm, Monday through Friday

Office Hours
9am - 6pm, Monday through Friday

Shop Hours
11am - 10pm, Monday through Sunday

A valid yellow fever certificate is mandatory for all persons (including infants) who have visited Africa, South America or Papua New Guinea within six days of entering India. The certificate becomes valid ten days after vaccination. India does not require immunization against small pox and cholera.

Drinking water from the tap is not recommended. Bottled drinking water is available in every hotel room.

During the winter months the city air can become quite smoggy. Asthmatic travellers are advised to carry their medication at all times.

Given Mumbai's tropical climate, lightweight summer clothing is generally sufficient. A suit is appropriate when conducting business.

Some restaurants may require a jacket. Otherwise smart, casual clothing will suffice. 

Being in the tropical zone and near the Arabian Sea, Mumbai does not experience distinct temperate seasons.

Winter months, between November and January, bring temperatures between 12°C and 34°C. Summer months of February to May are known for warm winds and a humid climate, with temperatures hitting a high of 38°C. The monsoon season harkens heavy rainfall and windy days, with temperatures as low as 21°C.