have a question?
Purposeful Nomad knows from experience how important it is to feel informed and prepared for travel abroad. We always want to make sure we’ve answered your every question and provided you with all of the details you need. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you've got a question that isn't answered here.
Is it safe for women to travel to India?
Yes. Rajasthan is one of the more touristy areas of India and has many travelers throughout the year. Rajasthanis are known for their kindness, hospitality and traditional culture. With this said, incidents against solo travelers in isolated areas have been reported. We travel in a group, have two local male guides, a female Purposeful Nomad representative and a safe driver. Your security and safety are our number one priority. Petty theft can happen, so keeping your important belongings with the car or in hotel is advisable at all times.
Do I need a visa to travel to India?
Yes. Visas obtained in advance of travel are required for all foreign visitors to India, regardless of country of origin, purpose of visit, or length of stay. Tourists who wish to travel to India solely for personal travel, and who plan to stay no longer than 30 days, can easily apply for an e-visa online. The application for an Indian e-visa requires travelers to upload a photo and passport scan, and to pay the application fee of $105 USD. If approved, tourists will receive their e-visas via email. They must be printed out and presented upon arrival at the airport. Here is the correct link: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
What type of electricity is there/Do I need adaptors?
India uses 230 Volts, 50 Hz alternating current as the power source. Plugs and sockets have either grounded / earthed 3 Pin connections (Type D) or ungrounded 2 pin connections (Type C). Yes- you will need some sort of outlet adaptor. We like this universal one found HERE.
What type of clothes should I pack?
Rajasthan is the most traditional state in India. Wearing shorts, tank tops, short skirts (above the knee) or sundresses is not advisable and will attract unwanted attention. Loose fitting clothes that cover your shoulders, like long sleeve cotton tops, loose pants, jeans, long dresses, yoga pants with a long shirt and cotton scarf to wrap around your shoulders is appropriate attire. Having clothes tailored is inexpensive and easy in India and we will have time for this in Jodhpur if you wish to have a few items made for your trip. Plus, there will be many bizarres with fun scarfs, shirts and pants along the way! Since we are guests in this region and will be doing work with Sambhali Trust please observe the local customs and dress respectfully. At hotels or in your room, feel free to wear what you'd like. Please bring a bathing suit for the hotel pools and spa day!
Do I need international travel insurance?
Yes. International travel insurance is required. More information will be sent to you after you register. Purposeful Nomad is an affiliate partner with World Nomads. You can purchase insurance right through our website here.
What is the weather like in Rajasthan?
Rajasthan in the winter is warm/hot during the day (around 68-80 F) at night the temperature will drop dramatically (45-55 F). It is advisable to have a sweater, light jacket, warm socks, jeans, hat and gloves for the evening. We will be spending one night in the village so please bring a few extra layers for this amazing experience. It rarely rains in the desert region and the air is very dry.
What is not included in the overall cost?
Not included is international airfare, travel insurance, tips, alcohol, extra snacks and food outside the noted meals per day, personal expenses.
What extra money do I need? Can I use US Dollars?
Rajasthan is known for it’s crafts, tapestries and gems. We will find time to shop, so if you wish to purchase items please bring an extra $250 - $600 USD depending on your budget. It is advisable to tip the guides and driver (other tips are included in your price). Also, lunches are not included in the price of the trip, so please account for an extra $100-$200 depending on your appetite.
Do I need vaccinations?
Be an informed traveler, ultimately it is up to you to consult a physician and make sure you are up-to-date on your vaccinations. We are here to help but can not legally provide medical advice.
Can I drink the water?
No. It is not recommended to drink tap water. Having said that, please bring a reusable water bottle as most hotels and tourist destinations offer refilling stations.
Is there internet?
Yes! In most places in India there is internet at the hotels. If you have an unlocked phone, you can purchase data and calling for around $10 USD at the airport or later in the trip and you will have internet in most places.
WHO IS OUR IDEAL TRAVELER?
We like to say: It’s not about age but all about attitude! Our ideal client is open to trying new things, getting their hands dirty, looking to engage with local communities and most importantly they have an open-minded, curious attitude. All types of ages, sizes and women come on our trips.
IS PURPOSEFUL NOMAD INSURED?
Yes. Purposeful Nomad is a fully insured through American International Group, Inc. Here at Purposeful Nomad we do our best to ensure that every program is a success. However, in the event of something unexpected we want you to be fully protected. We REQUIRE that you purchase international medical insurance. This is different from your health insurance. International medical emergency travel insurance is short-term protection for any medical costs incurred outside your home country. It’s incredibly easy and usually below $100 depending on the coverage you want.
Purposeful Nomad is an affiliate partner with World Nomads. You can review and purchase travel insurance HERE.
WHAT IF I GET INJURED ON A PURPOSEFUL NOMAD TRIP?
Your safety is paramount and will be taken very seriously. In case of an emergency our drivers will be at hand to take anyone to the clinic or hospital. Because we will be in rural areas and partaking in adventurous activities having your own travel insurance in addition to our company insurance will protect you from any unwanted costs in the end.
WHAT IF I DON’T SPEAK THE LANGUAGE?
No worries at all!! Included in all our trips are local, bi-lingual guides. Wherever needed there is a translator.
DOES PURPOSEFUL NOMAD ACCOMMODATE DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
There is a spot in the application to note all allergies and food restrictions. Purposeful Nomad will work with you personally to make sure this is something that we can accommodate.
CAN I ENJOY SOME ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ON THE TRIP?
You may. Alcohol is not included in the price of the trip and where available you may choose to purchase that on your own. We ask that you use more precaution in high elevation areas such as in Ecuador as the affects of alcohol are greatly increased past 9,000 feet. There are certain settings during some trips where alcohol should not be consumed for cultural reasons, but our guides will give you a heads up when we encounter those moments.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
Once you have applied for the trip you will be sent a recommended packing list specific to that trip.
ARE THERE PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS TO TRAVEL WITH PURPOSEFUL NOMAD?
Each trip has varying levels of activity so it depends on the itinerary. Overall, everyone must be healthy and physically able to move about without complication. You are responsible for taking all necessary health precautions before and during your trip. It is the client's responsibility to ensure they seek professional medical advice before traveling and to take all necessary health precautions and preventative measures. Having said that, every activity is optional and should you choose not to participate in everything that is completely fine. We encourage everyone to take it at their own pace. Every hike will have different levels of length and difficulty, as well as different activities to choose from.
WILL THE GROUP BE TOGETHER THE WHOLE TIME?
Yes. Groups travel together at all times in a private van with driver and guide. There are specific days where you are welcome to choose your own adventure or wander out on your own if desired. A few meals are not included and they are noted on each itinerary.
HOW DOES PURPOSEFUL NOMAD VET AND SELECT IT’S PARTNERS?
The Purposeful Nomad team personally meets with the communities and/or non-profits which we partner with during the trip creation process. We ask the hard questions, for example: where do you get your funding? And, who benefits from the work being done? We also ask about the needs and strengths of each community and if we could provide a service, activity or new skill for one of our upcoming trips. Most importantly we listen to their answers. If we don’t like what we hear or it doesn’t align with our values then we simply move on. Meet some of our amazing partners!
Did we miss something? Feel free to contact us here and we’ll get right back to you.