Tipping in India 2017
 

What would be a reasonable tip for our driver who we've had for 2 weeks...

Thanks

You mean every day for two weeks?

Then how was the service?

Very broad question but if I was you and liked the service then say $200.00 max. In USD that's about 13 k rupees.

Again broad question. I've been to India 7 times as my wife is Indian and my in-laws say I tip too high if that helps.

I think we, westerners, often approach tipping in an unfamiliar culture from an emotional point of view and are likely to tip higher, at times wildly higher. Tipping is part of the culture and locals, like jacketwatch's in-laws, have a much better grip on the numbers, will know about what a driver is paid and what percentage of that is an appropriate tip for a job well done. As we do at home.

It also matters, I think, whether the driver is just driving or if he's also acting in any capacity as guide. In my Indian travels I've had drivers who spoke no English so had no interaction and no duties beyond driving from A to B. I've had others who did speak English and actively participated in helping me decide where to go. In my opinion, that would warrant a better tip. On occasion I've found myself with both driver & guide, not on the original itinerary, in which case I was billed separately so knew the cost of the service and could come up with a percentage that seemed appropriate. My point, it depends.

I want to tip an appropriate amount so often ask my accommodation hosts what is a usual amount for the service they've likely arranged for me. You might do the same at your point of departure or even along the way.

Jacketwatch is a large-hearted gentleman!
Tipping is one matter which needs serious consideration for it has the potential of upsetting your budget. The Indian drivers are poor. Their salaries are meager. And they are also the hardest working on your tour, sometimes sleeping in the car where no accommodation is available that fits into their small budget or in destinations where it is not safe to leave the car without keeping an eye on it. The transporter gives a very small allowance to him for outstation tours.
His daily consumption in a state like Rajasthan will be about Rs. 500/-. If he has to carry back something home for his wife & kids and may be an aged parent, I guess Rs. 10500/- for a two week trip is good. Of course, there will be drivers, who will, by their behaviour, hard work & the way they have served you, may impel you to dig deeper into your wallet!!
The gratuity should be handed over to him, in an envelope, when you have finished your tour and are about to say Good bye to him.
Happy & safe travels!

Thank you sir. I do tend to tip a bit large especially for good service. There is some reward for me too as the looks of surprise and delight stay with me forever.

To the OP Mr. VP Singh is a professional tour operator in India whose services we have used before and we're delighted with so perhaps his suggestion of an appropriate amount is on the money. No pun intended of course. :S-.

Thanks, everyone....I appreciate your input! Now just a matter of conscience...

Cool. You have your answer.

Best of luck!