Tickets & Entertainment in India: what actually matters to know

From real experience

• Travelers entering India from nearby countries (like Sri Lanka) are often asked for proof of onward travel by airlines. If an onward ticket has not been purchased, travelers use temporary flight reservation services to fulfill check-in requirements.
• Tickets for major Indian attractions, such as the Taj Mahal and other significant sites, can be booked through assistance services. This can streamline the process of securing entry to popular tourist destinations.
• At Delhi Airport (DEL) for international flights to Moscow, check-in and baggage drop typically open 4 hours before departure. General lounge access is available via Priority Pass or similar programs, though airline-specific lounges may vary.
• A round-trip taxi service from the Gurgaon/Delhi area to Agra, including stops at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, typically costs around 8,000 INR.
• For good restaurants and bars in Kolkata, focus on Park Street in the city center. Recommended establishments based on Google Maps reviews include Peter Cat, Mocambo, and AmPm.
• Some services in India can assist travelers in purchasing train and bus tickets, particularly for routes where general availability might be limited. This can also be helpful for securing tickets under a 'tourist quota' if such a system is in place for specific bookings, potentially aiding in accessing tickets even when they appear sold out on standard platforms.
• Kolkata weather in July is characterized by continuous heavy monsoon rains and high temperatures. It is generally advised to visit during the winter months for more favorable weather conditions.
• Delhi is a major entry point for travelers. Key takeaways: Main Bazaar area is high-density, noisy, and dirty, but convenient for budget travelers. Other parts of Delhi vary in cleanliness depending on the neighborhood. Recommended for a short 2-3 day visit for sightseeing.
• In Indian Railways 1st Class bookings, seat numbers are often not assigned at the time of purchase. Seat assignment typically occurs approximately 4 hours before the train's departure. Passengers should check their PNR status closer to the departure time to confirm seat details.
• Aurangabad is the recommended base for visiting the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Ellora is located near the city, while Ajanta is further away. Local buses operate from the Aurangabad central bus station to both sites. Booking accommodation in Aurangabad provides more variety compared to staying directly at the cave sites.

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