FAQs

Question

What are the passport and visa requirements?

Answer

Please make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of travel to India. Most international travelers need a visa to enter India. Canadian citizens can apply for an E-Visa through the Indian government website linked below. Applications can be submitted up to 5 months in advance, so visas for an August wedding will open around March–April. Don’t worry—we’ll send you a reminder when the applications become available!

Question

What airport should I fly into?

Answer

You can fly into Amritsar (ATQ) for a shorter, ~2-hour drive to Firozpur, or Delhi (DEL) for more flight options and often cheaper fares, though it’s about an 8-hour drive. The choice is yours! Please let us know your arrival details so we can arrange transportation for you.

Question

Will someone pick me up from the airport?

Answer

Yes! Guests flying into Amritsar will be picked up at no charge. For guests flying into Delhi, we can arrange cabs for approximately $200, which will take you directly to the bride’s hometown. At least one of us will always be there to greet you, regardless of which airport you arrive at.

Question

Where will I stay?

Answer

You can book local hotels, usually costing around $40–$50 per night, or Airbnb-style houses with 3–4 bedrooms, costing about $400 per month. Locations will be shared with photos soon, and we can help arrange bookings once you share your planned dates of stay (approximate dates are fine!).

Question

How will I be getting around?

Answer

We can help hire a cab company to drive you around during your stay, or you can choose to hail local taxis or rickshaws. Don’t worry—we’ll provide a guide on typical cab fares so you know what to expect and avoid getting overcharged. There will also be plenty of people from the bride’s family to help with traveling, so you don’t need to worry about getting around! If you’re feeling adventurous, let us know and we can help arrange a rental car or motorbike so you can explore on your own!

Question

How will meals and dining work during the trip?

Answer

All wedding events will include meals for guests, so you won’t need to worry about finding food during the celebrations. There are also numerous restaurants around town, but we recommend avoiding food from street vendors. We’ll provide a list of recommended restaurants after doing a quality check to make sure everything is safe and delicious. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.

Question

Wedding Attire & What to Pack

Answer

We encourage guests to wear vibrant and colorful outfits, and festive or Indian attire is welcome, but it is not mandatory—please wear whatever makes you feel comfortable! August in India can be hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing for daytime events. Loose-fitting fabrics like cotton or linen will help keep you comfortable. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities. For the wedding ceremonies and evening events, bring festive attire and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to dance. A light shawl or scarf can also be handy for cooler indoor venues. Most of these items are readily available in India at lower prices, but of course it’s entirely your choice whether to bring them from home or buy locally. Cultural Note for Women: Since we’ll be in a small town, we recommend keeping yourself modestly covered. Knee-length shorts and sleeveless tops are fine as long as the chest area is covered.

Question

Can I shop for wedding outfits locally?

Answer

Absolutely! If you’d like to shop for outfits before the wedding, we recommend allowing 4–5 days prior to the wedding. This gives you time to explore all the options and make any necessary alterations. Many outfits can also be rented, with prices typically ranging from $20–$50, depending on how elaborate the outfit is.

Question

What do the events entail, and will they be outdoors?

Answer

All wedding events will be held indoors in air-conditioned venues, so you’ll stay comfortable regardless of the August heat. Here’s a brief overview of each celebration: Mehendi: A vibrant ceremony where the bride and guests get intricate henna designs applied to their hands and feet. There’s music, dancing, and lots of festive colors! Haldi: A ritual where a turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom to bless them and prepare for the wedding. Expect a lively, joyful gathering with lots of laughter. Bangle Ceremony: A fun tradition where the bride wears glass bangles gifted by her family. It’s usually accompanied by music, songs, and family celebrations. Dhol Night: A high-energy party featuring the dhol (Indian drum) and lots of dancing—get ready to enjoy the beats and join the fun on the dance floor! Sangeet: A musical evening with performances by family and friends, singing, and dancing to celebrate the upcoming wedding. It’s colorful, lively, and full of entertainment.

Question

Can I bring my family?

Answer

Absolutely! Just let us know your travel plans so we can make appropriate arrangements for transportation and accommodations.