Travel Tips & FAQ's
What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to India?
A passport with validity at least six months beyond your departure from India is required. Also, visas must be obtained prior to arrival in India. Please note that Palace Tours cannot provide visas. Please visit www.mea.gov.in, click on "Welcome" and then under "MEA Links" at the right, click on "Missions and Posts Abroad" and then click "Consulate Generals". You can then select your appropriate Consulate General office and link directly to its website, where detailed visa information and application forms can be found. Please budget at least 14 days to receive it from the consulate.
What is the best time of year to visit Sunderbans?
September to March. The region has a tropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Maximum and minimum temperatures during the summer are 42°C and 37°C respectively. In winters, the maximum and minimum temperatures are 29°C and 9.2°C respectively.
What precautions should I take while traveling in Sunderbans?
Drink only purified water provided in the cruise, only consume food that is served in the cruise. Carry sunscreen, a hat, mosquito repellent, and don't forget your camera! Also do not forget to carry your personal medicines if you are on medication.
What kinds of clothing are recommended?
During the winter season (December, January and February) light woolens are required during the night. For the rest of the year, casual cotton outfits would be the most comfortable. Try to wear outfits in neutral colors so as not to startle the animals in Sunderbans. Fully covered shoes with good traction are advisable. There is no official dress code on board the cruise ship.
What onboard facilities does the ship have?
The 4-decked luxury cruiser M.V. Paramhamsa was built in 2006. It has a gym, Ayurvedic massage parlor, steam room, activity room with satellite television, library, art gallery, conference rooms with internet connectivity and fax facilities, fully-stocked bar, sun deck, onboard entertainment and laundry service. There is a terrace coffee shop as well as a kebab corner for delicious snacks outside of mealtimes.
Please describe the rooms on board.
The 32 comfortable rooms of M.V. Paramhamsa are air-conditioned, spacious, are river-facing and possess attached baths for your convenience. The ship has 12 luxury rooms on the first deck and 20 deluxe rooms on the main deck. Luxury rooms measure 5.4m x 3m (approx. 162 sq. ft) while deluxe rooms are slightly smaller at 4.5m x 3m (approx. 135 sq. ft). All rooms are equipped with telephone, ample reading material, tea and coffee maker and even an emergency kit.
What kind of cuisine is served throughout the tour?
The ship's spacious restaurant, The Mangrove, offers a variety of delectable Oriental, continental and Indian dishes. Take your pick from the lunch buffet selections and the mouthwatering seafood section. Vegetarian options are always available, and special requests can be accommodated for; please inform Palace Tours upon booking and please advise upon boarding if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
What kinds of electrical outlets are there on board?
The ship has 220-240 volt outlets.
What types of onboard cultural entertainment are planned?
The evening programs showcase rural Bengal through various folk songs and cultural activities.
Is it permissible to smoke on board?
Smoking in confined areas is prohibited. You may, however, smoke on the open decks of the vessel.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
Bottled water is provided complimentary throughout your tour, on board and on land excursions. We also recommend brushing your teeth with bottled water.
What is the recommended gratuity?
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. We advise that you do not tip the individual directly for services; separate boxes are kept for such a purpose. As a guideline, a tip of about 2,000 rupees for the 3-night tour would be appropriate.
Can the tour accommodate passengers with special needs?
Yes, if you require a wheelchair, one can be provided (please mention upon booking) and can fit through the passageways on board. If you have a medical condition that might put you at risk, discuss it with your doctor and inform us at the time of booking. And, whenever you travel, check to see what your health insurance covers. We do have some professionals to handle emergency situations and can arrange immediate medical facilities.
What is the recommended currency?
The local currency is the Indian rupee. We recommend that you utilize currency exchange facilities in Kolkata before your tour, as some of the smaller towns may not be able to accommodate an exchange. On board accounts may be settled by major credit card or cash.