love_joy

I am a middle age woman planning an extended trip to Nepal and India. All suggestions will be welcome. The best places to stay on a budget. Places where I can meet other single travellers.Any information that will help. This trip is planned to begin in January 2004.

jacketwatch

Such a huge journey! I admire you. May I ask if you have considered medical prophylaxis for malaria, typhoid, hepatitis, etc? I do not mean to alarm or dissuade you but these problems are real. I got typhoid in India once so I know it can happen. You may want to look into a travel clinic if you have not already taken these precautions. As for a budget hotel the only one I know is Nirulas in New Delhi, starts at about $40.00 per night. Great location too. Bon Voyage, Larry

love_joy

Thanks Larry.
Your warning was duly noted.

jacketwatch

Thanks and good luck. Larry. BTW sensible precautions should steer you clear of most problems, i.e. drink only bottled products (Indian beer is great), and make sure you eat what is peeled and well cooked.

Sameera_Anand

Take a look at the YMCAs in Delhi and Mum - in Mumbai esp it is well located, clean and lots of single travelers. In terms of places you must cover consider Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala. In Goa you could consider staying at Capt Lobos on Bagha beach. Reasonable, clean service apts. From Mum to Goa there is a very conv overnight train which u could book in advance. Again more reasonable than the flt. Lok at the Indian Airlines 3 weeks pass - it is on their site. For some of your longer flights e,g to Kerala it may make sense. Del-MUm there is also a great train service - the Rajdhani. Check the Indian Railways site.

love_joy

Sameera thank you, those answers triggers others. I am planning to take somethings to the orphanage in Nepal, would it be convenient to travel for months in India with suitcases or would it be more convenient to use a backpack? What type of clothing is best? If it is possible please reply to [email protected]

Atanu

The timing of your trip is very good, it seems that you will be visiting India first and then Nepal. If you are planning on roughing it out to an extent, then rucksacks will be better than suitcase.

As for the places, I am sure you will be recommended to do the regular "hot" spots like Agra, Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala etc....which is fine although these places have become quite touristy these days. I have just returned from a trip to the North East part of India and I cannot tell you what people are missing out on if they dont visit this region. I visited Laitkor (10kms away and 1000ft higher than Shillong)in the North East part of India...the cliffs of Laitlum, the King's palace in Smit, the Nongkrem festival etc... this region doesnt find a mention in most travel books... even though it is endowed with breathtaking beauty and a tranquility that is there in only a few places in India.

There is an Inn there, complete with fireplaces, superb wines.....seems like an Italian hillside chalet.... the locals (Khasis)are mostly Christian and the British influence is quite evident. An unique group of people with their own culture, language, traditions, food, dress and history. Since it seems like you do your bit for the planet, there are missionary orgs doing some very good work.....if you need more information on that or pictures write to me at - [email protected]

Any trip to India I dont think can be complete if people dont visit the North East.....this secluded corner is begging to be discovered !!