tourist driver india

Your Intro to Indian Railways

Travel Classes on Indian Trains

How to Reserve a Train Ticket

How to Find & Board Your Train

Tips for Train Travel in India

India's Scenic Toy Trains

12 Indian Etiquette Don'ts

The Top 10 Indian Stereotypes

Tipping in India

What Does the Head Shake Mean?

9 Challenges You'll Face in India

How to Avoid Culture Shock

Top 5 Monsoon Health Concerns

Voltage Information for India

How to Use Your Cell Phone

How to Say Hello in Hindi

Often Misunderstood Hindi Terms

Hindi Language Books

Most Common Indian Scams

How to Handle Begging in India

How to Spot Fake Indian Currency

What to Buy in India

How to Buy a Sari in India

How to Bargain at Indian Markets

How to Get an Indian Visa

India's Visa Types, Explained

Applying for an E-Visa

India's Climate & Seasons

Monsoon in India

Your Essential Packing List

Things to Buy Before You Go

What to Pack for Monsoon

The Best India Guidebooks

How to Save on Your India Trip

The Top Destinations in India

The Most Iconic Sights in India

Which Region Is Right for You?

India's Top Historical Destinations

Romantic Indian Destinations

India's Top Hill Stations

India's Top National Parks

The Best Beaches in India

India's Best Backpacker Spots

India's Most Spiritual Destinations

The Best Luxury Spas in India

India Off the Beaten Path

India for Adventure Travelers

Where to Experience Rural India

The Top Things to Do in India

Palaces & Forts in India

India's Best Surfing Beaches

Volunteer on a Budget in India

7 Cool Sound & Light Shows

India's Most Popular Festivals

India's Best Bike Tours

See India by Motorcycle

India's Top Tribal Tours

Offbeat Tours to Take in India

India's Best Homestays

Palace Hotels in India

India's Coolest Treehouse Hotels

Top Wildlife & Jungle Lodges

The Best Hostels in India

Best Budget Hotels in India

Transport in India: An Overview

India's Major Airports

India's Best Airlines

Domestic Airlines in India

Hiring a Car & Driver in India

Essential Guide to Hiring a Car and Driver in India

TripSavvy / Wenjia Tang 

Unlike in most countries, when you hire a car in India, you'll commonly get a driver along with it! Understandably, this can take a bit of getting used to, especially if it's your first trip to India and you've never experienced it before. Here's what you need to know.

Why Hire a Car and Driver?

Why not simply hire a car and drive yourself? Or take the train or fly ? Or take a tour? Hiring a car and driver is ideal for independent travelers who want flexibility and control over their itineraries, and ease of travel. You'll be able to stop at places that interest you and not have to worry about how to get around. While options for hiring a car without a driver are growing in India, self-driving is not recommended for mental health and safety reasons, as roads are often in poor condition and road rules are frequently not followed in India. Train and plane travel is useful for covering long distances with nothing much to see in between. However, if you're planning on exploring various destinations in a state such as Rajasthan or Kerala, then hiring a car and driver makes the most sense.

How Much Does it Cost?

The price will depend on the type of car and whether or not your driver speaks English (these drivers typically cost a bit more). The charge is per kilometer, and you'll always have to pay a minimum per day (usually 250 or 300 kilometers) no matter what distance is traveled. The rates for each type of car do vary by company, and by state and city, although the following is a general estimate:

• Small Car -- Typically an air-conditioned Tata Indica, starting from about 10 rupees per kilometer. It's cheaper to hire a modern car than one of the atmospheric old Ambassadors, which will cost you about 15 rupees per kilometer. These cars comfortably fit two passengers but can fit four.
• Medium Car -- Typically a Toyota Innova SUV or Mahindra Xylo, starting from 13 rupees per kilometer. These cars comfortably fit four passengers but can fit six.
• Large Car -- Typically a Tempo Traveller, starting from 18 rupees per kilometer. These unique vehicles are like mini buses and can fit up to 10 passengers. Larger ones are possible.

The rates are for travel from destination to destination. They usually include fuel, insurance, and state taxes. Parking, and a daily allowance for the driver's food and accommodations (200-500 rupees per day), may be extra. Rates for hire for sightseeing within a city are less.

Where to Hire From?

Any tour company in India will be able to arrange a car and driver for you, as too will most hotels. However, if anything goes wrong (such as the car breaking down or misunderstandings), you'll want the business to be responsible for it and not the driver. Rates from hotels will also be more expensive. Hence, it's best to book through a reputable company. These companies will also organize hotels and guides if necessary. Some recommendations are provided below at the end of the article. Most tourists start their trips from Delhi and head to Rajasthan, so these places have many options. Be sure to do plenty of research and make comparisons to decide on what suits you best. Decent independent drivers with their own vehicles do exist. You'll need to have the right contacts to find them though.

Where Does the Driver Eat and Sleep?

Drivers are provided with a daily allowance (usually a few hundred rupees) by their employers to cover the cost of their food and accommodations. Some hotels offer separate accommodations specifically for drivers. However, drivers will commonly sleep in their cars to save money.

Foreign tourists who are used to equality often feel that their drivers should dine with them, especially during lunch if they're on the road. This is not the norm in India though. Drivers have their preferred places to eat, and they may not be comfortable joining you for social reasons (India is very hierarchy-oriented). It doesn't hurt to ask though. Just don't be surprised if they are reluctant to accept the invitation.

Tipping the Driver

Is it necessary and how much? Your driver will definitely expect a tip. Depending on how happy you are with his services, 200 to 400 rupees per day is reasonable.

What to Keep in Mind

• The condition of the roads in India is variable and can be very poor in some places. It may take you longer to reach your destination than expected, so do take this into consideration when planning your itinerary and allow plenty of time. Don't always believe the travel times shown by Google Maps!
• If comfort is a factor, it's worth paying more to get a better vehicle such as a spacious Toyota Innova or Mahindra Xylo. Roads that are in poor condition tend to be bumpy and the lack of decent suspension in older cars will be very noticeable. In addition, most people prefer to choose an air-conditioned car as roads can be dusty and the weather hot.
• The tax for vehicles to cross state borders can be costly, so do check whether this is included in the price quoted.
• The car will need to return to its starting destination (at your expense), so do take this into account when planning your trip and budget.
• The drivers don't act as guides. They will take care of your itinerary, get you to each destination, and answer general questions. They won't accompany you inside monuments and attractions though.

Other Things to Expect

• Your driver may invite you home to meet or have dinner with his family. This can be interpreted as a friendly and warm gesture. However, do be aware that drivers usually come from lower middle class backgrounds, and it may be done in the hope that you will give something to them. Many tourists do feel compelled to contribute some money/financial assistance. If you're fine with this, especially if your driver has been honest and helpful, then no problem!
• It's likely your driver will suggest that you shop at certain places and eat in certain restaurants. This is because he will receive a commission from those places or get free food. It can become tiring after a while, especially if you're not interested in doing so. Be firm in declining.

Some Recommended and Reliable Companies

• V Care Tours and Travel is an excellent small company with personalized service for hiring quality cars and drivers in Rajasthan. I used them when traveling there with my mother and the experience was impeccable. The owner, Deepak Dandh, is really genuine and helpful. What's particularly noteworthy is that they work in co-ownership with the drivers. This means that the drivers own the vehicles, thereby increasing service standards and vehicle quality. The company recently introduced day and night tours of Jaipur in iconic Ambassador cars. They also offers hotel bookings for a handpicked range of heritage properties and boutique homestays in Rajasthan.
• Namaste India Tours is a small company that's been arranging tours by car (predominantly in Rajasthan) since 1994. They offer a number of pre-planned circuits, as well as personalized itineraries. All trips depart from Delhi. Click here for information and rates.
• Magic Tours of India began in Mumbai and has expanded to popular tourist destinations all over the country. As well as custom tours, they arrange transport and guides. Click here for contact details.
• Swagatam Tours is one of the largest tour and travel companies in India. They have an extensive network and presence all over the country (with their head office in Delhi and branches in Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore), plus a large transportation fleet of all kinds of vehicles.
• Car Rental Delhi (a division of Kalka Travels) has been operating for more than 25 years and has a fleet of more than 30 vehicles, specializing in north India. Pricing is competitive and service personalized, with separate contact staff for domestic and international tourists. Notably, the company also guarantees that they don't have any commissioned-based relationships with shops or businesses.
• Driver India Private Tours is also popular and offers reasonably-priced car rental and bespoke tour packages for trips from Delhi to Agra, the Golden Triangle, Rajasthan and north India. It's another company that guarantees it does not receive commissions. Its knowledgeable and experienced owner worked as a driver for many years before starting his own business, and aims to provide honest and hassle-free service.
• Pioneer Personalised Holidays is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala and was founded in 1995. The company is a good choice for travel in south India and has their own fleet of vehicles.

UberHIRE and Ola Rentals

App-based taxi services Uber and Ola Cabs also offer taxis for hire at set hourly rates for day trips within cities, and taxis for inter-city ("outstation") travel.

Rent a Motor Home

Feeling adventurous and want to go on the ultimate road trip in India? This vehicle has been redesigned into a stylish motor home that can sleep four people. Its owner, an Indian-born American film maker, recently used it to go on 45 day exploratory road trip across India. The motor home comes with lots of facilities including chairs, table, refrigerator, storage space, TV with Chromecast, speakers, GPS tracker, and solar panels for electricity backup. It also has a portable gas stove and utensils for cooking. Plus, a driver and helper, fuel, and trip planning are included in the cost.

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

One Week in Delhi: The Perfect Itinerary

The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal in India

Getting Around Delhi: Guide to Public Transportation

Jaipur Literature Festival Essential Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Rajasthan's Shekhawati Region

Your Trip to Udaipur: The Complete Guide

An Overview of Transport in India for Tourists

Getting Around Udaipur: Guide to Public Transportation

Jaipur Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Costa Rica: The Complete Guide

How to Visit Agra Fort: The Complete Guide

The Best Day Trips to Take From Delhi

Getting Around Mumbai: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Bengaluru: Guide to Public Transportation

How to Travel From Delhi to Haridwar by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

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The GoldenTriangle tour is a popular tourist circuit in India, which typically includes three major cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur .   

RAJASTHAN TOUR

A Rajasthan tour is a journey through the royal state of India, known for its rich history, majestic forts, vibrant culture, and stunning desert landscapes

AGRA SAME DAY TOUR

An Agra same-day tour typically involves visiting the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and other notable attractions in Agra within a single day

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Enjoy the flexibility of your own car and driver giving you the independence to see incredible India on your own unique trip. Lalit Kumar Mavi is excellent English and local knowledge, We will organise a truly special journey through India's north Travel with Private Driver India and you will experience a deep insight into Indian culture and traditions. We believe in "Athi Devo Bhava " which literally means " Guest Is God" 

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Do you want to spend your holidays in India?

If you want to travel at your own way, enjoy the things that interest you, India Tour Driver can make it happen for you.Hello, my name is Abhishek (Abhi), but my friends call me Abhi, and I hope someday you will too! Over ten years ago I started as " India Driver Tour ", and since then we've grown to be one of India's most trusted tour companies for all of your travel needs.

Same Day Tour Packages

We offers same day tour packages from Delhi and enjoy full-day sightseeing tour of the major attractions with private car and driver. Our same day trips include Delhi sightseeing tour, same day Agra, same day Jaipur and other surrounding tourist sights.

Delhi Sightseeing Tour

Explore the best of Delhi with our private full day sightseeing tour of Delhi, covering historical monuments, forts, temples, shopping areas, etc.

Delhi Jaipur One Day Trip

The glorious city of Jaipur has been one of the major tourist attractions and loved cities of the country for centuries.

Delhi Agra Same Day Tour

Offer an exciting day trip to Agra from Delhi by car, enjoy an interesting day at Agra to view the impressive Taj Mahal, Red Fort Sikandra Tomb (The tomb of Akbar) etc.

Haridwar Rishikesh Same Day Tour

Haridwar and Rishikesh same day trip is a blend of religious and adventure tourism.

Rajasthan attracts tourists for its historical forts, palaces, art and culture. Come and experience traditional Rajasthani culture, royal lifestyle, forts and palaces, supreme heritage and ancient temples from our wide range of Rajasthan tour packages.

Ultimate Rajasthan Tour

Rajasthan Palaces Tour

Rajasthan Wildlife Tour

Complete Rajasthan Tour

We have exclusive golden triangle tour packages to explore best tourist destinations in India such as Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. It also offers extensions to various other majestic cities of India like Varanasi, Orcha, Khajuraho, Pushkar, Udaipur and many more.

Golden Triangle Tour

Golden Triangle Tour With Varanasi

Golden Triangle with Ladakh

Golden Triangle & Pushkar-Udaipur

Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore

Khajuraho Varanasi Golden Triangle Tour

Great experience with Abhi Bhati! He was our driver during one week in Delhi. He was very nice and funny, safe driving, on time and accommodating with our changing schedules.Quality service, on time, good clean vehicle, safe driving. I highly recommend India Tour Driver services!

We used India Tour Driver for a journey to Jaipur from Delhi and back. Abhi Bhati, our drivers were consummate professionals ensuring our journey was comfortable as possible. The cars we travelled in were great and they were very flexible with us, allowing breaks and detours as and when requested. We highly recommend to any traveller wishing to journey by car.

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We not only want to provide you with the best value for money, but we also want to provide you the best quality trip we possibly can. We believe that our trips are once in a life time experiences and we want you to be talking about them for the next 10 years!. Our amazing team may be small, but along with being super friendly we also have extensive travel and expedition knowledge. Our tours have been pieced together with the best leaders, in-country team, equipment and extra excursions to make sure our customers come back happy and ready to plan their next India Tour Driver trip.

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Built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, the magnificent white marble with thousands of colored stones inlaids mausoleum is considered to be the most beautiful human built monument in the world. Included in all our Rajasthan package tours

And discover McLeod Ganj, the home his Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile since 1960. 

McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala and the indian Himalayas are parts of our Dalai Lama Path tour

Considered as the 'Holy city of India' by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, Varanasi is world famous for its religious celebrations in the River Ganges. A unique mystic place ! Included in our Rajasthan to Varanasi tour

Let your driver make you discover Indian spirituality, cuisine, habits, clothing, dances and much more of what is considered the oldest living civilisation of Earth. Included in all our package tours

The Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculptures, are considered as one of the seven wonders of India. Included in our Rajasthan to Varanasi tour

Maharaja Rajasthan

The whole exciting tour of Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal. This is the most selected tour to get the magnificence of the province of the Maharajas.

Rajasthan Essentials

An intensive  tour to give you an insight to Rajasthan and admire the Taj Mahal. Pick up from any location in Delhi or Airport - drive and visits of Jaipur the capital city of Rajasthan - Fatahpur Sikri - Bharatpur - Agra and back to Delhi. Read more

Rajasthan to Varanasi

Spirit of Kerala

14 days/13 nights from 886 USD/764 EUR per person (incl. accommodation)

Discover all the nature and culture of Kerala and explore the relaxing Kerala Backwaters. Pick up from any location in Kochi or airport - drive and visits of Kochi - Wayanad - Munnar - Thekkady - Kumarakom - Allepey - Backwaters - Verkala  and back to Kochi. Read more

Golden Triangle

A one week tour to discover Rajasthan's Golden Triangle. Pick up from any location in Delhi or airport - drive and visits of the Taj Mahal - Delhi - Jaipur - Pushkar - Fatehpur Sikri - Bundi - Agra and back to Delhi. Read more

Welcome, Namaste!

Discover the Romantic Taj Mahal Built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, the magnificent white marble with thousands of colored stones inlaids mausoleum is considered to be the most beautiful human built monument in the world. Included in all our Rajasthan package tours

Follow the Dalai Lama Path And discover McLeod Ganj, the home his Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan governement in exile since 1960. McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala and the indian Himalayas are parts of our Dalai Lama Path tour

Contemplate Gaths bathing in Varanasi Considered as the 'Holy city of India' by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, Varanasi is world famous for its religious celebrations in the River Ganges. A unique mystic place ! Included in our Rajasthan to Varanasi tour

Dive into Indian Culture and Traditions Let your driver make you discover Indian spirituality, cuisine, habits, clothing, dances and much more of what is considered the oldest living civilisation of Earth. Included in all our package tours

Visit the Erotic Temples of Khajuraho The Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculptures, are considered as one of the seven wonders of India. Included in our Rajasthan to Varanasi tour

At Drivers-India.com we are proud and honored to serve you as our guest and show you the beauty and culture of India. We organise your private tour through Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Varanasi and the Himalayas.

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Travel Blog The Ultimate Guide for Foreign Tourists to Driving in India

The Ultimate Guide for Foreign Tourists to Driving in India

India is certainly one of the best destinations around the globe. Be it any state of the country, it is always ready to welcome foreign tourists and relish its delightful attractions. But travel in India never remains confined to a particular city. So that means you have to get some wheels to make the most of your trip. 

The best option is to go for a rental car service and hire a car rental. The majority of foreign visitors hire car rental services with a driver to take them around, which is often much safer and fairly inexpensive. You can hire both Self Drive & Chauffeur Drive with AVIS Car Rental , the only car rental company in India to offer both.

If you love to drive, look out for self-drive cars in India to relish the contentment of driving on the streets of India. That way, you get to explore the destinations at your convenience. Furthermore, if you have any doubts regarding renting a car in india, this blog will have you covered. 

Read Also : NORTH INDIA VS SOUTH INDIA, WHICH IS THE ONE FOR YOU TO EXPLORE?

Being a foreign tourist, will I be allowed to driving in India? 

Yes, as long as you have a valid international driving license for India, you can drive in any state of India. You can obtain it from any Regional Transport Office of the respective state. The process usually realizes between five to ten working days.

Documents for getting an International Driving License

• Birth Certificate
• Address proof
• Visa for India
• Driving license of your country 
• Passport-size photographs

Read Also  :  best Airbnb in India

Driving in India is not as easy as it appears, you need to get hold of some tips to ensure you match up the localities in every aspect of driving. So finding the perfect mode of travel will play an important part in making the most of your trip. 

Those who want to travel in comfort can ride in Chauffeur Drive car rental and those who like to take a challenge can drive to their destination with AVIS Self Drive in India .

Here is an ultimate guide for foreign tourists to drive in India.

Right hand drive.

Indian cars have a right-hand drive and if you are from a country having left-hand drive cars, this can be a bit difficult primarily. But it would be a matter of a few hours’ drives after which you will get well-versed with the right-hand applications. 

Manual Cars

Most of the cars in India run on manual gears unlike automated cars in foreign countries. Get familiar with the operation of a manual car before you get on the roads.

Prepare yourself for the Traffic

Traffic is not something unknown to anybody but the chaotic scenes on Indian roads are surely going to make you crazy. The slow-moving traffic and widespread jams during peak hours would demand endless patience and mental presence. 

Read Also :  TOP 5 HILL STATIONS NEAR KOLKATA FOR A ROAD TRIP STRAIGHT TO HEAVEN

It is believed that if you can drive in India, you can drive anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, the traffic lane discipline is not so good as compared to western countries. It should not come to you as a surprise seeing vehicles traveling in the opposite direction or overtaking from the wrong side. Over-speeding and ignoring traffic lights are the common non-followed rules by many. You have to keep all your senses alert to avoid any kind of mishap.

Honk till they react

Honking is surely not a practice recommended in any country, but in India, people react only when you Honk. Also, stop reacting to every horn as it is a normal practice and there is nothing to come under pressure or feel affronted. Expecting some improvements in this matter, but as of now, it’s the horn that talks for you on the roads. 

Follow the traffic lights

There is nothing unique about it, just do it the way you do it in your country. The penalty for not following traffic rules applies when caught by the cops. Also, don’t forget to wear your seatbelts irrespective of the adjacent car driver following the same or not. People in India fail to realize that it is for your safety and not a shield to escape the traffic penalization.

Read Also :  7 OFFBEAT BEST PLACES TO VISIT NEAR DELHI IN NOVEMBER IN INDIA

Do not try to overtake Buses and Trucks

Give way to Buses and Trucks as they are rash drivers and don’t bother about anything. There is no way you can match their way of driving and even if you try, you might end up hurting yourself. As a decent citizen, it’s better to give them the right to way for a safe drive.

Night driving 

Don’t experiment with your driving skills at night as you will meet many careless drivers especially the trucks approaching you with a strong beam of light driving at a speed beyond their control. Arguing with them or trying to prove your point would just lead to a disobliging discussion with no gain.

Every country has its own precedent of driving but one thing that remains common is safety. Be careful when you drive, irrespective of the country you are driving. When you opt for a self-drive, your safety remains in your hands – Stay safe, Live Long!

Read Also : CHAR DHAM YATRA WITH FAMILY THROUGH A SELF-DRIVEN CAR

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Wanderlust and Lipstick

Travel tips and inspiration for women

7 Tips for Hiring a Driver in India

| POSTED IN: > Tours , > Travel Tips

1. Start your search for a driver before you even arrive in India. Forums, such as Lonely Planet’s Thorntree , will have recommendations for drivers. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, post a question and you’re sure to receive responses from people with first-hand experience. Beware that on occasion the drivers themselves (or their family members) will post recommendations and their service may be dubious. Ask questions of both the person making the recommendation as well as the driver (some have email access).

2. Ask other travelers as well as locals what a specific ride should typically cost. This will give you an idea as to whether your potential driver is giving you a fair price. Remember to bargain as the first price that you’re provided will undoubtedly be far higher than the “real” price.

3. Hire someone who speaks English. Not only will this clear up questions about where you want to go but also what the ride will cost you.

Akhand (left) was my favorite driver in India. He spoke English and doubled as an astrologer and palm reader!

4. Be clear about what you’re paying for. While it may seem overkill to have to be so precise, there are all sorts of add-ons that could pop up if your driver is anything but honest. These include: air-conditioning, gas, lodging (if you’re on an overnight trip) and food. Your driver may also be reluctant to take you to your final destination on longer trips, opting instead to drop you off on the outskirts of a city rather than deal with traffic in an unfamiliar metropolis. This will leave you to your own devices to find a taxi that can finish the journey.

5. Before you depart, write down the agreed upon cost of the trip so there is no question about whether it is 50 rupees or 500 rupees. Without this you could end up in a very sticky situation at the end of the day.

6. If at all possible, never take a taxi by yourself . If you’re traveling on your own, find someone with whom you can share a ride. Backpacker hostels and internet cafes are places where you could post a notice for this.

7. Indian drivers are notoriously fast and the roads are terrible. Not a good mix. If you find yourself close to having a heart attack in the back seat of a taxi because of all the weaving back and forth, the hard stops and starts and the speed, simply ask your driver to slow down . Don’t be afraid to do this! Your driver may believe that it’s karmic law determining his fate but I like to believe that I have a little more control over my life.

Road travel can provide you with a really interesting perspective of India, especially when you factor in the roadside stops, cows and scenery.

While it may be all you can do to not get carsick, try to have fun. Converse with your driver: ask about his family, sightseeing recommendations and favorite foods. Getting to know the locals may very well be the best part of your adventure!

Happy Travels!

And if you’re looking for either a North or South India tour , look no further! Join one of these upcoming tours to Incredible India!

Reader Interactions

Your tips are great, yes I got good experience in India and I followed your advice that I got some drivers recommendation to Trip Advisor form, there I found some people talking were about an Indian agency Icon India Tours and then I asked them for hire a car and driver in India and I had wonderful experience, as followed these links to hire a car and driver in India http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g297683-i1206-k2337810-Jaipur_to_Agra_to_Delhi-Agra_Uttar_Pradesh.html and http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293860-i511-k2875347-Getting_from_Amritsar_to_Jaisalmer_with_13yr_old-India.html Thanks for your tips and really very helpful to know about Indian transport system Cheers

Glad these tips were helpful!

In december 2010 my mother and I travelled trough Rajasthan for two weeks with an excellent driver whom we want to recommend to everyone looking for a reliable driver in India.

Asif Ali is a very sweet and gentle man, a safe driver and a good guide. He took us to nice restaurants and hotels on the trip and showed us all the cities and sites we wanted to see, all for the price we agreed upon, no surprises at the end. His English is fine and he arranged good guides for us at main attractions like the Taj Mahal, so that we weren’t hasseled by other guides. He organised everything akkoorden to our wishes.

He is based in Delhi and has the most experience of Rajasthan and the rest of North-Western India but he has a tourist permit for the whole of India.

His contact details are: Asif Ali [email protected] +91 98-68-600659 G-8A/73, Ratiya Marg, Sangam Vihar New Delhi- 110062

Thanks, Maartje!

I organized my trip through intense India Tours http://www.intenseindiatours.com and I found that Mr. Anil have been the most friendly and efficient person we have ever dealt with in organising a holiday. Anil should be teaching people how to do what you have done! It is like he was inside our minds and knew exactly what we would like.

The choice of driver, Mr Ram Lalit could not have been better if we had picked him our selves. From the moment we met him at Udaipur airport we instantly warmed to him. He had a lovely big smile and was most welcoming and friendly. We became very good friends over the next ten days after many miles of driving together. More importantly, he had a very good sense of humor which we like.

Nothing was ever too much trouble for Mr. Ram Lalit. His knowledge of local life and general history kept our interest throughout the journey. He took us to the homes of some very interesting craftsmen, something which we would never have seen had we been with a big UK tour operator. We hope we get to meet him again and shall certainly advise our friends to ask for his services if they visit India.

Again, we could never thank you enough for the experience of a lifetime that Mr. Anil http://www.intenseindiatours.com has given us. If you want to discover the real India then hire your driver through Intense India Tours. Whenever I go back I will book my trip with these guys No doubt about it.

I booked my trip in January through http://www.drivers-india.com . I loved every minute of it. Our driver Lucky was warm and friendly and I think our trip to India would not have been so rewarding without him. We felt comfortable asking him about Indian culture and behaviour which we could have never understood otherwise. He was great fun and I really felt that we made a good friend by the end of our trip. We relied on the site to book all our accommodation and we were delighted with the value and the quality. Cannot recommend the company and Lucky highly enough: http://www.drivers-india.com .

How could you go wrong with a driver named Lucky? I love it!

@Beth. Exactly lol

I have been to India for travel and work a few times and I always use the services of sanjayindiatours.com. The owner Sanjay is very honest and hires only drivers that speak English well, drive safely and are honest. Sanjay himself is in contact every day to make sure everything is going well and to make any changes to itinerary or hotels that I may want. The hotels are always of a great standard and good value for money.

Hey Wanderluster, These are so genuine points. Hiring a driver who knows English is definitely good. As of now, many organised cab providers have started their operations in India. That is safer and better. Check out any of these Uber, Tabcab, Olacabs, Meru,etc. Again, if you know any driver in person that is awesome and you remove professionalism which organised cab providers show.

nice and well informative blog.it’s give us light about what should you do before when you hire a car. but for travelling you should prefer my best company for car hiring.Travelocar

I am planning to travel to Mantralaya Sri Raghavendra Temple. Since it my first time to visit india and I am going to travel with group of ppl around 10. which should be more preferable to travel? Is there any car rental with affordable price??

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IndiGo Plans Delhi-Gurugram Electric Air Taxis By 2026. Travel Time: 7 Mins

Archer Aviation will supply 200 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that can carry four passengers besides a pilot and operate just like helicopters but with lesser noise and better safety.

The 200 planes, each having 12 rotters, will cost around USD 1 billion.

InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of IndiGo, and US-based Archer Aviation will launch an all-electric air taxi service in India in 2026, that will carry passengers from Connaught Place in the national capital to Gurugram in Haryana in just 7 minutes.

Besides Delhi, the joint venture between InterGlobe and Archer Aviation will launch similar services in Mumbai and Bengaluru to start with.

The cost of the seven-minute flight operated with the company's five-seater eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft from Connaught Place to Gurugram in Haryana could be around Rs 2,000 to 3,000, according to Archer Aviation executives.

Archer Aviation Founder and CEO Adam Goldstein on Friday said discussions are going on with the US regulator Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the certification process for its aircraft is at an advanced stage.

The certification is expected next year and once that is in place, the process will be initiated for the certification by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

In an interview with PTI in the national capital, Goldstein said the company expects to start flights in India in 2026 and aims to have 200 of its Midnight planes for the operations.

Initially, Archer Aviation will be focusing on Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. With its flight, the duration will be around 7 minutes from Connaught Place in Delhi to Gurugram and the cost could be Rs 2,000 to 3,000. In a car, for the 27-kilometre distance, it would take around 90 minutes and the cost would be about Rs 1,500, according to Goldstein.

The five-seater Midnight aircraft will be able to accommodate the pilot and four passengers. The plane, which will have six battery packs, will get fully charged in 30-40 minutes and one minute charge broadly translates to one minute of flight, its Chief Commercial Officer Nikhil Goel said.

Archer Aviation will be having a joint venture with InterGlobe Enterprises and the final contours are being worked out.

The US-based company is also in discussions with various municipalities with respect to infrastructure and other aspects of the flight operations.

Goel said it will use the full strength of InterGlobe, which is a conglomerate, and the joint venture might choose partners for the eVTOL operations in India.

Discussions are also going on with respect to the real estate space required for vertiports or the launchpads and other infrastructure for starting the flight operations.

Archer Aviation will be opening its manufacturing facility in the US this year and initially, it will have a capacity to produce up to 650 planes and the same will be enhanced to 2,000 planes.

To a query on whether the company will be looking at manufacturing the planes in India in the future, Goldstein replied in the affirmative.

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Last year, Archer Aviation entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with InterGlobe Enterprises, an Indian travel conglomerate and the country's IndiGo is part of it.  

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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UP man sends cab to Salman Khan’s address to pick up 'Lawrence Bishnoi', arrested

Days after bike-borne men fired outside salman khan's address in mumbai, a student from ghaziabad was arrested for allegedly booking a cab and asking the driver to "pick up lawrence bishnoi" from the actor's residence..

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• Cab driver goes to Salman Khan's house to 'pick up Lawrence Bishnoi'
• 21-year-old student arrested for sending cab to Salman Khan's house
• Incident follows recent shooting outside Khan's residence

A 21-year-old student from Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad was arrested on Friday for booking a cab and sending it to actor Salman Khan's Mumbai home to "pick up Lawrence Bishnoi". This came days after bike-borne men fired four rounds of bullets outside Salman Khan's home in Mumbai's Bandra.

Lawrence Bishnoi is a jailed gangster who has been targeting Salman Khan allegedly due to the 1998 blackbuck hunting incident. His brother Anmol Bishnoi had claimed responsibility for the shooting incident.

A cab driver reached Galaxy Apartments on Thursday and asked the security guard at the gate where Lawrence Bishnoi stays. He told the guard that he was there to pick up Lawrence Bishnoi.

Police officials present at the spot heard Lawrence Bishnoi's name and took the cab driver into custody. The cab driver was then handed over to the Bandra Police.

According to the police, the driver was asked by a person who booked the cab through an aggregator service to pick up a person named Lawrence Bishnoi from Galaxy Apartments. The cab driver had no idea the address he was given was Salman Khan's residence and Lawrence Bishnoi is the name of a gangster, police said.

On investigation, the police found the person who booked the cab was a 21-year-old student who lives in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. The student was identified as one Rohit Tyagi.

A police team reached Ghaziabad and arrested Rohit Tyagi. A case was lodged against him and he was produced before a court.

IN THIS STORY

How a millennial Lyft driver used the gig to travel to all 50 states, launch a food blog, and get started on a book

• Kreskin J. Torres, a Lyft driver, has traveled across all 50 states, documenting his dining experiences.
• Torres is working on a book, an app called Rideshare Foodies, and is organizing a national potluck.
• He said gig driving is just temporary and has helped him achieve his larger goals.

Kreskin J. Torres, 35, has eaten his way through all 50 states — including Alaska and Hawaii. His ticket to doing so? Driving for Uber and Lyft .

The Army veteran and Baltimore native has documented his dining on his blog Rideshare Foodie . After seven years, he's learned the most profitable times of day to drive, the best locations to find riders in each city and the optimal strategies for maximizing tips .

"You just got to work smarter, not harder," Torres said. "From my experience, I've been in every state, so I know how every city works now."

At the same time, he's been able to pursue his foodie passions. Torres is now working on a book called "Taste of the States," his recommendations app called Rideshare Foodies, and planning a series of events to honor dishes from various states and their history.

While driving for ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft can be a flexible way to earn money for people like Torres who have more than one hustle, it can also be a recipe for burnout. Among the dozens of drivers Business Insider has spoken with over the past few months, many are already dreaming of what's next — starting a business or finding new modes of employment .

And that's Torres' main career advice for those considering it. After all, he's not planning to do the job forever, as he hopes to transition away, though it helped him jump-start new paths for his future.

"Do not make this the end all be all," Torres said, noting how Uber and Lyft have threatened to pull out of Minneapolis. "When it started, it was advertised as a gig, a side hustle."

Traveling the country as a gig driver

As a veteran, he said this job has been relatively stress-free and helpful for not feeling lonely, a similar sentiment he's heard from veterans with PTSD.

"I enjoy meeting and connecting with different people and getting to see different places," Torres said.

He decided to spend his next few years on the road using driving to fund his adventures and to meet locals who could point him to the best restaurants and experiences.

"The great thing is you get to learn about different cities and how everything operates," Torres said.

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He moved to San Antonio , though he works mainly around the more-profitable Austin area, and has explored the South and Southeast.

While he doesn't make much money from his blog, he said driving has allowed him to try everything from Navajo tacos in Arizona to biscuits in chocolate gravy in Arkansas to huckleberry swirls in Montana. Driving has led him to some of his favorite restaurants like I693 Red Zone Grill in Jackson, Mississippi; Strawberry's BBQ in Holcomb, Missouri; and Rice & Roll by Xing Xing in Wichita.

Learning the most profitable places and times to drive

Torres noticed he would get more profitable rides driving around suburbs, airports, and sports stadiums, locations coveted by drivers as they get more tips and sometimes elevated fares.

He learned New Year's will always be profitable , though rides slow down around February before picking up in mid-March. It's led him to be more methodical about the types of rides to take, as well as planning when to save more of his earnings and when to splurge a little on food and travel.

"After seven years, I'm a lot more experienced. It depends on the time of the season, so I usually can do a lot more business in college towns," Torres said. "I would visit a city, see what they're known for, a little history behind it."

Torres was making enough to comfortably travel the country, though he's always been careful since he said passengers are sometimes confused by his out-of-state license plate. He also faced a permanent deactivation from Uber last year over a dispute over the color of his car.

He doesn't have a wife or kids, nor does he have an apartment, as he mainly lives out of his car to save money. He acknowledges that growing competition on the road and lower earnings could put a greater dent in savings for people with families or permanent residences.

Torres has transitioned to driving full-time for Lyft , and he typically is online for 12 hours a day but only actively drives five to six hours in between waiting around airports.

He said he's increasingly put himself in his passengers' shoes to determine the best places and times to drive — he likely won't put in the effort to drive during rain, and he's more likely to do later trips around concert venues or bars.

To continue supporting his travels, he said he sometimes does airport rides at 3 or 4 a.m., as well as rides between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. during the morning rush. He also said being online around noon is fruitful for corporate workers, while 3 p.m. is right when schools let out. He usually tries not to drive around evening rush hours but sometimes resumes later at night.

He also devotes more time to driving between Wednesday and Sunday, when rides are more frequent, whether for "whiskey Wednesdays" or Friday afternoon happy hours. This is also when he can best network with passengers and hear their stories, as he said he occasionally gets to drive famous people.

Torres said drivers should consider this a short-term opportunity while working toward long-term goals. As he eases off the app, he has his eyes set on more international travel in the coming months. He's also investing more time in his food app, a local recommendation tool that functions like a Facebook group in which people ask questions about, for example, the best bartender in the area or where to go for particular dishes. It has launched on Android and set to be released on Apple by the summer.

"The most positivity that you can get out of it, do whatever you can and get the most out of it," Torres said. "The next few months will probably be my last time doing this because I'm focusing on other things, so I always had a plan for the things I was going to do."

Are you a ride-hailing driver who's struggling to pay bills or has had recent success? Have you recently pivoted to a new career from driving? Reach out to  [email protected] .

Watch: How truck driving became one of the worst jobs in the US

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