📑 Must-Carry Documents When Traveling in India
Whether you're a foreign visitor or an Indian exploring new states, carrying the right documents while traveling in India can save you from unnecessary hassles at airports, hotels, and checkpoints.
This guide outlines essential paperwork to pack, including:
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Valid passport & visa (for international travelers)
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Government-issued ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Driver’s License)
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Hotel booking confirmations
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Transport tickets (flight, train, bus)
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Travel insurance papers
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Vaccination or health certificates (if applicable)
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Digital backups of all documents
We’ll also share tips on document safety, mobile apps for secure storage, and what to do in case something gets lost or stolen.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy a stress-free travel experience across incredible India!
Whether you're an international tourist or an Indian citizen traveling domestically, carrying the right documents ensures a smooth and stress-free journey. Here’s a checklist of essential documents to keep handy:
🧳 For International Travelers to India
✅ Mandatory Documents
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Passport
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Must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date
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Keep photocopies and digital scans in case of loss
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Valid Indian Visa / e-Visa (ETA)
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Print a physical copy of your e-Tourist/e-Business visa confirmation
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Ensure visa matches your passport number and travel purpose
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Flight Tickets (Return/Onward Travel)
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May be checked during immigration
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Also needed at airport entry gates
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Hotel Bookings or Local Address Proof
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Required during immigration & by some local authorities
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Important if you're visiting remote or sensitive regions (e.g. Northeast)
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Travel Insurance
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Strongly recommended for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, etc.
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Carry policy printout or e-copy with emergency contacts
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COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (if applicable)
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Though no longer mandatory, some regions or countries may request it on return
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🛂 Additional Documents (Highly Recommended)
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Passport-Size Photos (2–4 pcs): Useful for permits, sim card, etc.
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Photocopies of all IDs: Carry at least one paper copy in case of loss/theft
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Currency Exchange Receipts (if carrying large cash)
🧭 For Domestic Indian Travelers
✅ Essentials
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Government-Issued Photo ID
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Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN, Passport, Driving License (any one)
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Required for flight/train/bus boarding and hotel check-in
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Confirmed Travel Tickets
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Flights, trains (IRCTC e-ticket), intercity buses
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Hotel Confirmations
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Especially in tourist hotspots or during festivals
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Driving License (if self-driving)
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Along with car documents: RC, PUC, insurance
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COVID-19 Certificate (only if required by local authorities)
🛂 Special Permits (If Applicable)
Some Indian regions require entry permits, such as:
| Region | Permit Type | Where to Get |
|---|---|---|
| Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram | Inner Line Permit (ILP) | Apply online or at state liaison offices |
| Ladakh (Pangong, Nubra, Tso Moriri) | Protected Area Permit | Available in Leh |
| Sikkim (North Sikkim/Yumthang) | Restricted Area Permit | Through local tour operators |
📲 Pro Tips
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💾 Scan and email all your documents to yourself for easy access
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📁 Keep a folder with paper copies of passport, visa, tickets, hotel, and ID
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🔒 Use secure apps like Google Drive or Dropbox for backups
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🔌 Carry a power bank to ensure digital documents are accessible anytime
