India - Country Info

“Namaskar” – Welcome to India!

India is a fascinating world full of diverse sounds, bright colors and captivating scents. Here you will find fairytale Maharaja palaces, endless deserts scoured by cool winds, evergreen rainforests, majestic mountain ranges, tranquil deep blue lakes, emerald sea beaches, rich cultural heritage, indigenous people, a variety of exotic animal species and much more.

As the seventh largest country in the world, India surprises with an incredible variety of impressions that make it impossible to experience everything in a single trip. From spiritual experiences to adventurous discoveries, from encounters with the locals to the elegance of the modern world, India offers a wide range of experiences.

India is known for its hospitality and deep-rooted, centuries-old customs that shape the lives of millions of people. At the same time, the country is a leader in state-of-the-art information technology and innovative architecture, which indicates future-oriented development. Nobody shows you India like we do!

History & Culture

India is often called the cradle of civilization as its history dates back thousands of years. It was home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, including the Indus Valley Culture, which spanned what is now Pakistan and northwestern India. Throughout history, India witnessed the rule of various kingdoms and dynasties such as the Maurya Empire, the Gupta Empire, the Chola Empire and the Vijayanagar Empire. These eras were characterized by cultural flourishing and significant advances in art, architecture, literature and science.

With the advent of Islamic rule in the 12th century, Islamic conquerors began to occupy parts of India. The Mughal Empire was one of the most powerful Islamic empires in India and ruled large parts of the subcontinent. Later came the era of British colonial rule, when the British East India Company established trading bases in India in the 17th century and eventually took direct control of the country. This rule lasted until India’s independence in 1947, which was achieved through the independence movement led by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. The partition of India into India and Pakistan in 1947 was one of the largest mass movements in history.

After independence, India became a democratic republic and experienced rapid economic growth. Nevertheless, the country faces numerous challenges such as poverty, social inequalities, environmental problems and regional conflicts. The ancient Hindu traditions are still alive today and shape the cultural life of the country.

Indian culture is one of the oldest and most diverse in the world. It has a rich history that spans thousands of years and has been shaped by various influences. Some of the most important aspects of Indian culture are:

Language: A total of over 1,600 different languages are spoken in India, of which 22 are recognized as official languages. Most of these languages belong to the four major Indian language families: Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, Austroasiatic and Tibeto-Burmese. Some of the most commonly spoken languages are Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil, Urdu, Gujarati and Kannada. Each region of India has its own language or dialect, which accounts for the country’s linguistic diversity.

Arts and Crafts: India has a rich tradition in arts and crafts, including painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics and jewelry making. Famous art forms like dance (Bharatanatyam, Kathak), music (Hindustani, Carnatic music) and theater (Bollywood) are also part of Indian culture.

Geography

India is a country in South Asia bordering the Indian Ocean and characterized by various geographical features. The country covers an area of approximately 3.3 million square kilometers and is home to a variety of landscapes, including mountains, plains, deserts, rivers and coastlines.

The northern regions of India are dominated by the foothills of the Himalayas, home to some of the highest mountains in the world, including Mount Everest. There are also many rivers flowing in this region, such as the Ganges and the Yamuna, which play an important role in people’s lives.

The Thar Desert in northwest India is one of the largest deserts in the world and extends into Pakistan. The coastal regions of India offer a variety of beaches and are also known for their rich maritime history.

The climate in India is very diverse, ranging from tropical in the south to temperate in the north. Temperatures can vary greatly depending on the region. In the N

Orden has cold winters with snow in the mountainous regions, while the south is warm all year round. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains to large parts of the country. Overall, India has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.

While the northern states are affected by cool winds blowing down from the snowfields of the Himalayas, the south steams under the still scorching post-monsoon sun. By May, temperatures rise to up to 33° C. Peak temperatures are reached in May and early June. The best time to travel to most of the country is the cool and dry season between November and March. Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are ideal during this time, but the temperatures are also pleasant in central India and Goa. The heat in the south never goes away, but it gets oppressively hot in May and June, which is why a trip to India to the states in Tamil Nadu and Kerala is most pleasant between January and March.

Flora Fauna

India is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The country is home to a variety of plant and animal species that occur in different ecosystems. The characteristic plant species of India include the banyan tree, the neem tree, the lotus and the teak tree.

India’s wildlife is also impressive with a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. The most famous animal species include the Bengal tiger, the Indian elephant, the leopard, the sloth bear and the king cobra.

India has a large number of national parks and nature reserves that help protect the country’s unique flora and fauna. These include Ranthambore National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Periyar National Park and Jim Corbett National Park. Overall, India’s flora and fauna are an important part of the country’s rich cultural heritage and contribute to biodiversity on a global scale.

The Himalayas are home to a particularly hardy biodiversity: yaks, shaggy-horned wild horses, double-humped Bactrian camels, wild sheep, Tibetan antelope, blue sheep, Himalayan thar and ibex, black and brown bears, marmots, mouse hares and musk deer. Snow leopards are also spotted, although rarely, in Sikkim, Uttaranchal, Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh. Another mysterious animal is the rare red panda, which lives in the bamboo thickets of the eastern Himalayas.

Kashmir’s lakes and swamps provide a temporary home for migratory waterfowl, geese and ducks. In the delta of the Ganges, Yamuna and the Bay of Bengal lies the Sunderbans Tiger Reserve – home not only to tigers, but also to aquatic reptiles, fish, crabs, wild boars, sea turtles, snakes and the spotted axis deer.

The barren deserts of Rajasthan and Gujarat are surprisingly vibrant. Chinkaras (Indian gazelle), wild asses, Indian wolves, Asiatic lions and black bucks have adapted to the region’s heat, salty soil and limited water resources.

The forests of the Western Ghats are home to rich flora and fauna. Here you can find one of the rarest bats, the fruit-eating Latidens salimalii, flying lizards, sloths, bears, leopards, wild cats, hornbills and many other birds.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are refuges for bottlenose dolphins, rich bird life, sea turtles, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, fish and corals. In the Andaman Islands you can meet some curiosities of wildlife: a small elephant that can swim up to 3 km between the islands, the coconut crab that shakes the coconuts from the coconut trees and opens them with its powerful claws.

In India you can meet dholes (wild dogs), jackals, various species of deer and gazelles, snakes that kill mongooses. You can spot primates such as the extremely rare golden langur and widespread species such as the Indian crested monkey and the rhesus macaque.

When traveling in India you will also see breathtakingly beautiful native birds, but also well-known migratory birds: with a bit of luck the extremely rare crane, eagle, kingfisher, bee-eater, fantastic orioles, hoopoe, paradise flycatcher, paddy heron, hornbill, woodpecker, jungle bird and many other.

The waters around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal are rich in coral reefs and host a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, dolphins, sharks and manta rays. The islands are also an important breeding ground for various bird species, including terns, frigatebirds and cormorants.

Due to their natural beauty and diversity, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches

customers, snorkeling or diving in the clear waters, trekking through the dense jungle or simply enjoying the peace and solitude of the islands.

However, it is important to note that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are strictly protected areas and certain rules and regulations apply to preserve the delicate environment. Travelers should therefore act responsibly and respect nature to ensure that this unique archipelago is preserved for future generations.

The Indian government has taken various protective measures to preserve the archipelago’s unique biodiversity.

The Himalayan flora includes a variety of endemic species such as rhododendrons, edelweiss, blueberries, gentians and various conifer species such as pines and cedars. There are also a variety of herbs and grasses that thrive at different altitudes in the Himalayan Mountains. The flora of the Himalayas is very diverse and unique due to the extreme differences in altitude and climatic conditions. In the deeper regions of the Himalayas there are subtropical forests with species such as banana trees, bamboo and palm trees. At higher elevations, these forests give way to coniferous forests with species such as spruce, fir and cedar. Even higher up, in the alpine regions, grasses, mosses and lichens dominate the picture. The flora of the Himalayas is not only beautiful to look at, but also of great ecological importance. Many of the plant species have medicinal or culinary uses and are therefore of great importance to the local population.

Protecting the Himalayan flora is therefore crucial to conserve and protect the unique biodiversity of this region. This requires sustainable management of natural resources and measures to protect against pollution and climate change.

The fauna of the Himalayas is also diverse and includes a large number of animal species adapted to the extreme conditions of the mountains. Some of the most famous animals of the Himalayas include the snow leopard, the Himalayan tahr, the red panda, the Himalayan black bear, the Tibetan wolf and various species of birds such as the Himalayan green woodpecker and the Himalayan bullfinch. The Himalayan fauna is severely threatened by the loss of their natural habitat due to human activity such as mining, deforestation and poaching. Some animal species are already threatened with extinction, including the snow leopard and the red panda.

Conservation organizations work to protect and conserve the unique fauna of the Himalayas by establishing protected areas, raising awareness and taking anti-poaching measures. It is important that we all do our part to ensure that the Himalayan wildlife is preserved for future generations.

In India, flora and fauna are threatened in many places. To name just a few of the animals that are on the Red List: tiger, rhinoceros, snow leopard, olive ridley turtle, swamp deer, Indian elephant, Ganges dolphin, elephant and sloth bear, which is used as a “dancing bear”.

The Indian government has taken various measures to protect the threatened flora and fauna, including the establishment of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and wildlife sanctuaries. There are also laws protecting endangered species such as the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

In addition to India’s 93 national parks and 486 nature reserves, which make up about 4.7% of the country’s area, they play a prominent role in protecting flora and fauna. 14 biosphere reserves have been established to preserve the diversity of ecosystems.

Population

India’s population is one of the largest in the world and is constantly growing. According to Indian census estimates, India’s population will be around 1.39 billion people in 2021. India is the second most populous country in the world after China.

Indian society is characterized by a variety of cultural, religious and social traditions that have developed over centuries. India has a diverse population made up of different ethnic groups, languages and religions. The Indian population is made up of hundreds of ethnic groups that maintain diverse traditions, customs and ways of life.

Over 1,600 different languages are spoken in India, with Hindi and English serving as official languages. There is also a wide variety of religions in India, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism.

This cultural diversity shapes India’s social fabric and is reflected in the country’s art, music, literature and architecture. Despite this diversity, there is also a strong national identity and unity among the people

Hen in India.

The Government of India has taken measures to protect and promote the country’s cultural diversity by ensuring minority rights and supporting heritage conservation programs. The diversity of India’s population makes the country a fascinating place with a rich cultural history.

Indian society is highly hierarchical and traditionally characterized by the caste system, which has been abolished by law. However, caste, religion and socioeconomic status still play an important role in the country’s social life. Family and community are of great importance in India and traditional values such as respect for elders, hospitality and solidarity are highly valued. The family is the center of social life and offers its members support and security.

Religion

Religion also plays an important role in Indian society, as the country is home to a variety of religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism. This diversity of beliefs shapes the daily lives of people in India and is reflected in festivals, customs and rituals.

Indian society has changed significantly in the last few decades due to urbanization, globalization and technological advances. Young people strive for education, professional success and individual freedom, which has led to a change in traditional social structures. Overall, Indian society is characterized by a fascinating mix of ancient traditions and modern progress, making the country a unique cultural melting pot.

Here is an approximate percentage distribution of religions in India, based on the last census from 2011: Hinduism: approx. 79.8%, Islam: approx. 14.2%, Christianity: approx. 2.3%, Sikhism: approx. 1 .7%, Buddhism: approx. 0.7%, Jainism: approx. 0.4%, other religions and beliefs: approx. 0.9%.

Food and Drink

India is known worldwide for its diverse and delicious cuisine that offers a wealth of aromas, spices and flavors. Indian cuisine is as diverse as the country itself and varies greatly depending on region, culture and culinary tradition. Here are some of the unforgettable dining experiences travelers can expect in India:

Curry Dishes: Curry is the generic term for a variety of dishes that contain meat, vegetables or legumes in a spicy sauce made from a mixture of spices and herbs. From buttery chicken tikka masala to vegetarian vegetable curries, India offers an endless selection of delicious curries.

Street Food: India is famous for its vibrant street food, which includes a wide variety of snacks and dishes sold at street stalls and markets. From spicy samosas to crispy pakoras to juicy kebabs, there is something to suit every taste.

Biryani: The fragrant rice dish with meat, fish or vegetables and spices such as saffron, cardamom and cloves is a real culinary delight.

Naan and Roti: These traditional Indian breads are the perfect accompaniment to any Indian dish. Naan is a soft, flat-shaped bread baked in a tandoor (a traditional clay oven), while roti is a thin, round bread cooked on a hot pan.

Lassi: This refreshing yogurt drink is a popular way to end a meal. There are sweet and savory versions of lassi that are flavored with fruits, spices or herbs.

Public holidays

India is known for its colorful and lively festivals that are celebrated throughout the year and offer a fascinating insight into the country’s rich culture and tradition. Here are some of the prominent festivals that travelers can experience in India:

Diwali: Also known as the “Festival of Lights,” Diwali is one of the most important Hindu festivals in India. It is celebrated with lights, fireworks, sweets and prayers and symbolizes the victory of good over evil.

Holi: Holi is the spring festival and is known for its colorful powder kegs and water balloon fights. It is a festival of joy, love and happiness where people of all ages come together to celebrate the beginning of spring.

Navratri and Durga Puja: These nine-day festivals honor Goddess Durga and are celebrated with religious ceremonies, dance, music and festivals. While Navratri is celebrated in various parts of India, Durga Puja is particularly popular in West Bengal and other eastern states.

Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha are important Muslim festivals that mark the end of Ramadan and the Feast of Sacrifice. Muslims celebrate these festivals with prayers, feasts and the exchange of gifts.

Ganesh Chaturthi: This festival commemorates Bldg

urt of the elephant god Ganesh and is celebrated with colorful processions, temple festivals and traditional dances.

Dussehra: Dussehra marks the end of Navratri and the festival of victory over the demon king Ravana. It is celebrated with dramatic performances of the Ramayana epic, fireworks and burning of Ravana statues.

These and many other festivals make India a vibrant and culturally rich destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

India is the country of Ayurveda

Where can you experience Ayurveda better than in the country of origin?

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian healing art that takes a holistic approach to health and well-being. The word Ayurveda comes from Sanskrit and means “knowledge of life”. In Ayurvedic teaching, the human being is viewed as a unity of body, mind and soul and the balance between these three elements is seen as crucial for health.

Ayurveda is based on the belief that each person possesses a unique combination of three bioenergetic forces, or doshas: Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). The goal of Ayurveda is to maintain or restore the balance of these doshas to prevent disease and promote health.

You can read more information about Ayurveda here…

Clothing

People in India wear a variety of clothing styles that vary depending on region, culture and occasion. Here are some of the traditional clothing items commonly worn in India:

Sari: A sari is a traditional Indian garment for women that consists of a long cloth wrapped around the body and worn over the shoulder.

Salwar Kameez: Another popular piece of clothing for women in India, consisting of a tunic (kameez) and wide pants (salwar), which is often combined with a scarf (dupatta).

Kurta Pajama: A traditional Indian garment for men consisting of a long shirt (Kurta) and loose pants (Pajama).

Dhoti: A dhoti is a traditional Indian garment for men that consists of a long cloth wrapped around the waist and knotted between the legs.

Lehenga Choli: This is a festive Indian outfit for women consisting of a skirt (lehenga) and a blouse (choli), often combined with a scarf or dupatta.

Sherwani: A sherwani is a formal Indian outfit for men that is often worn at weddings and other celebratory occasions. It consists of a long coat with buttons and trousers. These are just a few examples of the diverse and colorful clothing worn in India. The selection of clothing items may vary depending on region and cultural affiliation, but overall reflects the country’s rich cultural diversity.

When traveling to India we recommend:

To wear appropriate clothing that corresponds to the cultural norms and climatic conditions of the country. Here are some clothing recommendations for a trip to India:

Covering clothing: In India, it is common practice to dress coveredly, especially at religious sites and in conservative areas. Avoid tight or revealing clothing such as short shorts, mini skirts, or plunging necklines.

Lightweight and breathable fabrics: Due to high temperatures in many parts of India, it is advisable to wear lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen to stay cool.

Bright Colors: Bright colors reflect sunlight and help keep out the heat. Dark colors should be avoided as they absorb heat.

Shoes: Comfortable shoes are important for long walks and sightseeing. Sandals or flip-flops work well in warm weather.

Headwear: Headwear such as a hat or scarf can protect against sunburn and is particularly useful when visiting temples or holy sites.

Culturally sensitive clothing: Respect local customs and customs by dressing appropriately. Avoid showing too much skin in conservative areas such as rural villages or religious sites. Depending on the time of year and destination, it is also advisable to take additional clothing with you, such as a light jacket for cooler evenings or a rain cover and socks for temple visits.

Time zones

India covers a large geographical area and spans several time zones. However, India officially only has one time zone, known as Indian Standard Time (IST). IST is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5:30).

Although India officially only has one time zone, there are actually some regional differences when it comes to actual local time. For example, some northeastern states like Assam and Arunacha have

l Pradesh has its own time zone which is one hour ahead of IST.

Additionally, some areas in India, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, have a different time zone known as Indian Standard Time – Andaman and Nicobar Time (IST-ANT). This time zone is 30 minutes ahead of IST.

So overall it can be a bit confusing as India officially only has one time zone, but there are still regional variations from the actual local time. It is therefore advisable to pay attention to the local time when traveling within the country or communicating with people in different parts of India.

Currency and means of payment

The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR), which is available in various denominations as coins and banknotes. The rupee is represented by the currency symbol “₹”.

Cash and electronic payment methods are widely used in India. Paying with cash is still widespread, especially in rural areas and in small shops. It is therefore advisable to always have some cash with you.

Various methods are accepted for electronic payments in India, including credit and debit cards, mobile wallets such as Paytm, UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and digital payment platforms such as Google Pay and PhonePe. These electronic payment methods are particularly common in urban areas and among larger retailers.

International credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops in tourist areas. However, it is advisable to do some research or inquire in advance whether a particular card is accepted.

Exchanging foreign currency into Indian rupees should only be done at authorized exchange offices or banks to avoid fraud. It is recommended that you carry your passport or other identification document with you when exchanging money.

The most common currencies that can be exchanged in India are:

US dollars (USD)
Euros (EUR)
British pound (GBP)
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Australian dollar (AUD)
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
It is important to note that not all currencies can be exchanged everywhere in India and that some less common currencies may only be accepted in larger cities or at certain exchange offices.

Health

Healthcare in India varies by region and city. In larger cities there are good medical facilities with qualified doctors and modern equipment. However, health care may be limited in rural and remote regions. It is recommended that you take out travel health insurance before traveling to India in order to be adequately covered in the event of illness or injury. It is also advisable to find out about the vaccinations required for India well before departure.

Common health risks in India include diarrhea (especially from contaminated water or food), dengue fever, malaria and respiratory diseases due to air pollution. It is recommended to drink only bottled or boiled water, pay attention to food hygiene and take mosquito repellent measures.

There are many pharmacies in India where you can buy medicines. However, it is advisable to have a doctor prescribe any prescription medications and to take enough supplies with you for the trip.

In an emergency, you can request medical help via the nationwide emergency number 108. In larger cities there are also private ambulance services and hospitals with emergency departments.

Overall, it is important to pay attention to your health during your stay in India, take appropriate precautions and seek immediate medical attention in the event of illness or injury.

Recommended vaccinations for traveling to India

Hepatitis A and B: Protection against liver inflammation, which can be transmitted through contaminated water or food.

Typhoid fever: Protection against a bacterial infection that can also be transmitted through contaminated water or food.

Rabies: Protection against a viral infection transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals.

Tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough: booster vaccination to protect against these diseases.

Polio: Recommended vaccination against polio as polio still occurs in some parts of India.

Meningococcal meningitis: Recommended for travelers who live or work in close contact with locals.

Flu: Recommended for travelers during flu season (typically November to March).

It is also recommended to check and, if necessary, refresh your vaccination status for routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), chickenpox and influenza.

It is recommended to prepare at least 4-6 weeks before traveling to India to get advice from a doctor or travel medicine specialist about which vaccinations are recommended for you personally. Remember that some vaccinations require multiple doses and take time to develop full protection.

In addition to vaccinations, it is important to take precautions while traveling to India, such as: E.g., drinking bottled or boiled water, eating well-cooked food, and avoiding street vendors or unhygienic restaurants.

Shopping

Shopping in India is an experience in itself, as the country offers a wide variety of traditional handicrafts, decorative arts, textiles and jewelry.

Here are some popular places to shop in India:

Bazaars and Markets: Visit the lively bazaars and markets in cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai and Kolkata to buy handcrafted products, spices, clothing, jewelry and souvenirs.

Handicrafts: India is known for its diverse handicrafts such as block printing, embroidery, wood carving, metal work and pottery. Buy handmade products directly from the artisans or in specialized shops.

Textiles: Indian fabrics are known worldwide for their diversity and quality. Buy silk from Varanasi, cotton from Jaipur or cashmere from Srinagar. Sarees, dupattas and kurtas are popular clothing items for women.

Jewelry: Indian jewelry is elaborately designed and often decorated with precious stones. Buy traditional Indian jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings made of gold, silver or gemstones.

Spices: India is famous for its spices like turmeric, cardamom, cumin and cinnamon. Visit spice markets or shops to buy fresh spices or try spice blends like garam masala.

Carpets: Rajasthan and Kashmir are known for their hand-knotted carpets and rugs with traditional patterns. Buy a hand-knotted carpet as a souvenir or as a decoration for your home.

Dos and Don’ts

When traveling to India, there are some things you should keep in mind to show respect to the country’s culture and traditions. Here are some important points:

DOS:

Wear appropriate clothing: In India, it is important to dress respectfully, especially at religious sites and in rural areas. Avoid clothing that is too revealing and cover your shoulders and knees.
Respect local customs: Be open to the culture and traditions of India and show respect to the locals.
Remove your shoes before entering a house or temple: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering an Indian house or religious place.
In India, the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Therefore, always use your right hand when eating, greeting or handing over.
Be polite and friendly: Show respect for people, be polite and friendly when dealing with others.

Don’ts

Do not touch a person’s head: The head is considered sacred in India, so touching someone on the head is rude and disrespectful.
Do not show affection in public: Public affection such as holding hands or kissing in public is considered inappropriate in many parts of India.
Don’t take photos without permission: Ask permission before photographing people or religious sites.
Don’t throw trash on the street: Make sure to dispose of your trash properly and keep the environment clean.
Do not discuss politics or religion: Avoid controversial topics such as politics or religion in conversations with locals.

Entry & Visa

A visa is required to enter India. This can be applied for either online in advance or at the Indian embassy or consulate. In addition, travelers need a valid passport, a return ticket and sufficient financial resources for their stay.

There are different types of visas depending on how long you want to stay in India and for what purpose you are entering. Below are some of the most common visa types for India:

Tourist Visa: This visa is issued for tourist stays in India and entitles the traveler to visit the country for a specific period of time.

Business visa: A business visa is required for business trips to India. This entitles the traveler to carry out business activities in the country.

To apply for an India visa, you will typically need to complete an online application and submit all required documentation, including a copy of your passport, a passport photo, proof of sufficient financial resources, and other documents if applicable, depending on the type of visa. You can also get the visa together with your travel booking at Travel Mart TM, we will take care of it and you don’t need to do anything else.

Tipping in India:

In India, it is customary to tip, especially in restaurants, hotels and for services such as taxi rides or porterage. It is expected to tip around 10% of the bill. In some cases, a service charge may also be added to the bill, in which case a tip is not strictly necessary. However, a tip is always a nice gesture to recognize the good work of the service staff.