FAQs

Question

🛂 Do I need a Visa?

Answer

Yes. All Irish citizens require a visa to enter India. We recommend applying for the e-Tourist Visa (30 days) online via the official Indian Government website. Apply at least 6 weeks before travel. You can apply via this website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

Question

👗 Outfits: What to Bring?

Answer

We want you to feel comfortable and festive! While we love the colours of a traditional Indian wedding, there is no pressure to wear Indian attire unless you wish to. Wear What Makes You Happy Western Style: Colourful cocktail or maxi dresses for women; sharp suits or blazers with trousers for men. Indian Style (Ladies): Consider a Saree (draped fabric), Lehenga Choli with dupatta (skirt and crop top with a scarf), or a Punjabi Suit/Salwar Kameez (tunic and trousers). If you buy a Saree ensure that it is pre-draped to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions!! Indian Style (Gents): Try a Kurta Pajama (comfortable tunic), a Sherwani (formal embroidered coat), or a Nehru Jacket (a sharp, sleeveless waistcoat with a mandarin collar). The Local Vibe: Our family will be thrilled to see you embracing Indian culture—expect plenty of help with your outfits! A Note on Colours The Brighter, the Better: Embrace vibrant pinks, teals, oranges, and golds. Avoid: Please avoid pure white or solid black (mourning colors), and bright red (reserved for the bride). 🛍️ Group Shopping Trips If you want to buy something locally, we are organizing group trips to Dehradun’s boutiques and bazaars: Thursday, 22nd October Friday, 23rd October We can help you find ready-made outfits or "semi-stitched" suits that can be tailored in 24 hours. Please let us know if you'd like to join! Pre-Travel Shopping: If you want to buy clothes before you fly you can also find amazing pre-loved bargains on Depop or Vinted.

Question

☀️ What’s the weather like in late October?

Answer

October is widely considered the best time of year to visit Dehradun, as the monsoon rains have cleared, leaving the air fresh and the landscape lush and green. Dehradun in late October is pleasantly warm during the day and crisp in the evenings. Daytime: Expect clear blue skies and sunshine with highs of 25°C to 28°C. It’s perfect for outdoor photos and ceremonies. Night time: Once the sun goes down, the temperature drops quickly to around 12°C to 15°C. Since Solitaire Farms is located in the foothills (Malsi), it can feel even cooler than the city center. Rain: October is one of the driest months. While a stray shower is always possible, the chance of rain is very low (less than 5%), so your outdoor plans are likely safe! 🧥 Packing for the Climate Because of the temperature swing between day and night, layering is essential: For the Day: Lightweight cottons or linens. Don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen, as the Himalayan sun can be quite strong. For the Evening: We highly recommend ladies bring a Pashmina or heavy shawl and men bring a light jacket or a blazer. If you are staying on-site, a cozy jumper for early morning tea is a good idea. 💨 Humidity & Air Quality Unlike the humid summer months or the smoggy winter months in larger cities like Delhi, Dehradun in October has "comfortable" humidity (around 55%) and generally much clearer air quality, making it very pleasant for those traveling from Ireland.

Question

📱 Staying Connected (eSIMs & Data)

Answer

Roaming on an Irish SIM in India is very expensive. eSIM (Recommended): If your phone is unlocked, Revolut works well for eSims and you can set this up in the "Rev Points" section of your Revolut app. Airalo is another good app if you don't have Revolut. Download and set up either app before you leave so you can get connected straight away. Both Airalo and Revolut offer "India" data plans (using the Jio or Airtel networks) that activate the second you land. Physical SIM: You can get one at Delhi Airport (Airtel is best). It requires a passport copy.

Question

💸 Money & Payments

Answer

1. Cash is still essential While India is becoming very digital, you will still need cash for small purchases, tips, and local transport. You can easily withdraw Indian Rupees (₹INR) from ATMs at Delhi or Dehradun airports upon arrival. Most major international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Revolut) work, though your bank may charge a small foreign transaction fee. If you prefer to arrive with cash in hand, you can order ₹INR from your local bank in Ireland or a bureau de change. You can exchange money directly on your Revolut app to avoid fees when taking money out of the ATM. 2. Contactless payment: India’s primary way of paying is via UPI which involves scanning a QR code. Download the apps "Cheq" or "Mony". You can link your international mobile number, complete a quick digital identity check (using your passport/visa), and load the "wallet" using your Irish debit/credit card. It allows you to pay like a local at everything from street-side chai stalls to high-end boutiques by simply scanning a QR code with your phone. A lot of vendors do not have change so this is the most reliable way to pay everybody. 3. Cards (Revolut / Wise) Accepted at: Hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping malls. Always choose to "Pay in local currency (₹INR)" when the card machine asks. This ensures you get the real exchange rate from Revolut/Wise rather than the inflated rate from the merchant’s bank.

Question

🚕 Local Transport & Uber

Answer

Uber: This is the most reliable way to get around Dehradun. The rates are fixed, and you won't need to haggle. It's often cheaper and safer than local taxis.