Information for International Guests

1. wHAT IS THE COST of attending the summit?

The cost of attending the Summit is US$350 per person for three days of the Summit (Nov 04-07), and US$430 if you come for the pre-Summit event on Nov 05-06 (Read about the Pre-Summit event here).

These costs cover attendance at all sessions for three days, visits to local businesses, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverages on all days. It does not cover your accommodation, which will depend on your choice from our list of recommended accommodations (See below). It also does not include other offsite excursions, which we will share information about in the coming days.

2. What documents do I need to travel to India?

Visa: Ensure you have a valid Visa. We recommend applying for an e-tourist visa. You can apply online or through an Indian consulate or embassy in your country. We recommend that you apply 2 months before your trip to allow plenty of time. You will be asked to put a contact and address for your stay in India. Enter the hotel you will be staying at and the number of the hotel from their website. For any questions, please contact shweta@joycorps.org

Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in India.

Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance covering health, travel disruptions, and loss of personal belongings. 

3. which destination airports should I book my flights to?

From the US or any other country outside India, book your ticket to the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

New Delhi = DEL (Indira Gandhi)

From Delhi, book a flight to the Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun. There are several carriers that fly daily between Delhi and Dehradun. We recommend booking Delhi to Dehradun flights on Air India, as it is the most reliable airline and allows 25 kg of checked baggage as opposed to 15 kg on other airlines.

Dehradun = DED (Jolly Grant)

4. Are there any specific health precautions I should take?

Vaccinations: Check with your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations, such as for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have travel health insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

COVID-19 Guidelines: Verify current COVID-19 travel restrictions and health guidelines. They may change frequently.

5. What should I know about local transportation?

Airport Transfers: Many hotels offer airport transfer services. Confirm with your hotel in advance.

Taxis and Rideshares: Airports and hotels offer pre-paid taxis that are the most convenient option. Otherwise use authorized taxis or rideshare services like Uber or Ola. Ensure the vehicle is registered and use safety apps to track your ride.

Public Transport: India’s public transportation includes buses and trains, but it can be crowded and challenging. Using ride-hailing apps is often more convenient.

Note: We recommend being on an international roaming plan on your phone to have access to the internet on your phone because wifi is not readily available in airports and other public places. Alternatively, you can buy an Indian sim card at the Delhi airport upon arrival. We also recommend installing WhatsApp because most people in India use this app for phone calls and messages.

6. What is the local currency, and should I exchange money in advance?

Currency: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR).

Exchange: You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or authorized currency exchange offices. It’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand, especially for taxis, but credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

6. What are the local customs and etiquette I should be aware of?

Greetings: A handshake is common in business settings but be mindful of cultural sensitivities. A slight nod or ‘Namaste’ (a traditional greeting with palms folded together) is also appropriate.

Dress Code: We advise business casual clothing that is comfortable and modest.

Respect: Removing shoes might be required before entering a home or certain places of worship.

7. HOW DO I submit my meal PREFERENCES?

To accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, please fill out our Typeform meal preferences form: Guests Dietary Preferences. The form should be completed at least two weeks before the summit to ensure we can make the necessary arrangements.

8. What are the safety and security considerations?

Safety: India is generally safe for tourists, but like any country, stay alert and avoid displaying valuables.

Emergency Numbers: The emergency number for police is 100, and for medical emergencies, it’s 102. Keep these numbers handy.

9. What should I do if I need assistance during my stay?

  • Point of Contact: For any questions or concerns, please contact our Event Coordinator, Shalem at +91 98188 55675 or shalemkallimel@gmail.com. He will assist you with any queries before and during the summit.

  • Hotel Staff: Your hotel staff can assist with local information and emergency services.

10. What are some local dining and food safety tips?

  • Food: Indian cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Stick to well-cooked foods and drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

  • Restaurants: Choose reputable restaurants to ensure food safety. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Contact Shalem for questions about this.

11. What should I do if I face any issues with my visa or other documentation?

  • Local Authorities: Contact local immigration authorities for assistance.

  • Embassy or Consulate: Reach out to your country’s embassy or consulate in India for support with visa issues.

12. Are there any specific cultural or legal considerations I should be aware of?

  • Dress Code: Modest dress is recommended, especially in rural areas or religious sites.

  • Drug Laws: India has strict drug laws. Avoid carrying or using any prohibited substances.

13. How can I make the most of my stay in India?

  • Explore: Take time to explore local attractions and cultural sites if your schedule allows.

  • Network: Engage with local professionals and attend networking events to maximize your business trip.

14. What is the time zone in India?

  • Time Zone: India is in the Indian Standard Time (IST) zone, which is UTC +5:30