🐾 Traveling to India with Pets
Pet-Friendly India
India offers diverse pet-friendly experiences, particularly in urban centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa. While traditions vary, many hotels, beaches, and parks welcome well-behaved pets, making it a vibrant destination for pet owners exploring cultural sites and natural wonders.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate & Microchip
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant) and a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 7-10 days of arrival.
Certificate must include vaccination records and be endorsed by government authorities in the pet's home country.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but not more than one year before entry.
Pets from rabies-controlled countries may have relaxed rules; verify with Indian Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS).
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before vaccination; non-compliant chips require a scanner.
Microchip number must match all documents; quarantine may apply if discrepancies are found at entry points like Mumbai or Delhi airports.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from high-rabies countries need additional rabies titer tests and a 30-day quarantine at government facilities upon arrival.
Obtain an Import Permit from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) at least 15 days before travel.
Restricted Breeds
Certain breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans are restricted or banned in some states (e.g., Maharashtra, Delhi).
Restricted breeds may require special permits, muzzles, and leashes; check state-specific regulations before travel.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and exotic animals require CITES permits if endangered; contact AQCS for specific rules.
Reptiles and primates face strict import bans; health certificates and quarantine apply to all non-traditional pets.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across India on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Delhi & Mumbai): Urban hotels like Taj and Oberoi welcome pets for ₹500-2000/night, with nearby parks and pet amenities. Budget chains like Lemon Tree are often accommodating.
- Beach Resorts & Villas (Goa & Kerala): Coastal properties frequently allow pets at low or no extra charge, with beach access. Ideal for relaxed holidays with dogs enjoying the sand.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and OYO listings commonly permit pets, especially in cities and hill stations. Homes provide space for pets to move freely.
- Heritage Stays & Homestays: In Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, family-run guesthouses welcome pets and offer cultural immersion. Great for families with animals.
- Wildlife Resorts & Campsites: Select eco-resorts near national parks (outside protected zones) are pet-friendly, with tents and glamping options in Ranthambore or Jim Corbett areas.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end properties like The Leela Palace in Goa provide pet spas, gourmet treats, and walking services for premium travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Hill Station Walks
India's hills in Shimla and Ooty have pet-friendly trails and parks for leisurely walks.
Keep dogs leashed in crowded areas and check for seasonal restrictions during monsoons.
Beaches & Coasts
Goa and Kerala beaches have dog-friendly stretches for swimming and play.
Palolem and Varkala offer pet sections; follow local rules on waste and wildlife.
Cities & Parks
Delhi's Lodhi Gardens and Mumbai's Marine Drive welcome leashed pets; street food areas often allow them nearby.
Jaipur's parks permit dogs; outdoor heritage sites are generally accessible.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Urban café culture in Bangalore and Delhi includes pet-friendly patios with water bowls.
Many modern coffee shops allow dogs outside; confirm before entering indoor spaces.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Delhi's Old City and Mumbai's Colaba welcome leashed pets for free.
Focus on heritage walks; avoid indoor temples and monuments with pets.
Boat Rides & Backwaters
Many Kerala houseboat tours allow small pets in carriers; fees around ₹200-500.
Check operators in Alleppey; advance booking recommended for pet accommodations.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Indian Railways): Small pets travel in carriers free in general compartments; larger dogs need AVN parcels with tickets (₹100-500) and must be caged. Not allowed in AC classes without special arrangements.
- Buses & Metros (Urban): Delhi and Mumbai metros allow small pets in carriers free; larger dogs ₹50-100 with leash. State buses vary; avoid peak hours.
- Taxis: Ola and Uber offer pet-friendly rides; inform driver in advance. Most accept with a small cleaning fee (₹100-200).
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Zoomcar allow pets with deposit (₹1000-3000); book hatchbacks or SUVs for comfort on long drives.
- Flights to India: Check airline policies; IndiGo and Air India allow cabin pets under 7kg for ₹2000-5000. Book early and prepare quarantine docs. Compare options on Aviasales for pet-friendly routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Vistara, SpiceJet, and international carriers like Emirates accept small pets in cabin (₹2500-6000). Larger pets in cargo with health certs.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics like Max Vets in Delhi and Pet Zone in Mumbai offer urgent care.
Travel insurance covering pets; consultations cost ₹500-2000.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Heads Up For Tails and Pet Shop India stock food, meds, and accessories nationwide.
Pharmacies carry basic pet drugs; bring scripts for imports.
Grooming & Day Care
Cities provide salons and daycare for ₹300-1000 per session.
Book in advance in tourist spots; hotels often partner with locals.
Pet-Sitting Services
Apps like PetBacker and local services in major cities handle sitting for day trips.
Resorts may offer on-site care; consult staff for recommendations.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, public parks, and beaches. Rural areas may be lenient, but always control pets near traffic and crowds.
- Muzzle Requirements: Mandatory for restricted breeds on transport and in some urban zones like Delhi. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry poop bags; bins available in parks. Fines (₹500-2000) for littering in cities like Mumbai.
- Beach & Water Rules: Designated pet areas on Goa beaches; avoid during high tourist seasons if restricted. Respect other visitors.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor seating; indoor varies. Keep quiet and away from food prep areas.
- Protected Areas: Pets banned in most national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to protect animals. Stick to urban green spaces.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly India
India for Families
India is a family-centric destination with colorful festivals, interactive sites, beaches, and wildlife adventures. Safe for kids with abundant play areas, kid menus, and cultural experiences that captivate young minds while offering relaxation for parents.
Top Family Attractions
EsselWorld Amusement Park (Mumbai)
Thrilling rides, water parks, and snow world for all ages.
Tickets ₹800-1200 adults, ₹600-900 kids; open daily with family packages.
National Zoological Park (Delhi)
Sprawling zoo with tigers, elephants, and bird aviaries in lush gardens.
Entry ₹80 adults, ₹40 kids; boat rides add fun for family outings.
Amber Fort (Jaipur)
Majestic fort with elephant rides, light shows, and historical tales kids adore.
Tickets ₹100 adults, free for kids under 15; audio guides available.
Nehru Science Centre (Mumbai)
Hands-on exhibits, 3D theater, and dinosaur models for curious kids.
Tickets ₹50-100; ideal for educational rainy days.
Palace on Wheels (Rajasthan)
Luxury train tour with onboard activities and heritage stops.
Family packages from ₹50,000 per person; magical for kids.
Wonderla Amusement Park (Bengaluru)
Water slides, roller coasters, and adventure zones across South India.
Tickets ₹900 adults, ₹800 kids; suitable for ages 3+ with safety measures.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across India on Viator. From Taj Mahal visits to Kerala backwaters, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Delhi & Mumbai): Chains like ITC and Taj provide family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for ₹5000-10000/night. Includes kids' clubs and pools.
- Beach Resorts (Goa): All-inclusive family resorts with childcare and activities. Properties like Taj Exotica focus on kids' programs.
- Heritage Havelis (Rajasthan): Converted palaces offer family rooms with cultural experiences for ₹3000-8000/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering options in cities with kitchens for family meals and space to play.
- Budget Guesthouses (Kerala): Homestays for ₹2000-5000/night with family-friendly backwater views and home-cooked food.
- Wildlife Lodges: Family tents near sanctuaries like Ranthambore for adventure stays, ₹4000-12000/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Delhi with Kids
Red Fort explorations, India Gate picnics, National Rail Museum, and street puppet shows.
Kids' metro rides and ice cream at Chandni Chowk delight young explorers.
Mumbai with Kids
Gateway of India boat trips, Haji Ali Dargah visits, Marine Drive walks, and film studio tours.
Beach play at Juhu and local train adventures entertain families.
Jaipur with Kids
Elephant rides at Amer Fort, City Palace museums, and colorful bazaar shopping.
Hot air balloon rides and camel safaris for thrilling family memories.
Goa with Kids
Beach dolphin spotting, water sports at Calangute, and spice plantation tours.
Easy swims and sunset cruises perfect for relaxed family fun.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 5 travel free; 5-12 get half fare. Family quotas on Indian Railways with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Delhi Metro family cards (₹100-200/day); accessible with elevators in major stations.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (₹200-500/day); book via Zoomcar for family SUVs.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas improving with ramps; major sites like Taj Mahal offer wheelchair/stroller access.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants serve milder curries, pizzas, and dosas for ₹150-400. High chairs common in cities.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Thalis at highway dhabas and mall food courts welcome kids with play zones.
- Self-Catering: Big Bazaar and local markets for baby food, diapers; street fruits for healthy snacks.
- Snacks & Treats: Jalebi, kulfi, and chaat keep kids happy; hygienic options in tourist areas.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, airports, and hotels; public parks have basic facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, meds; English-speaking staff in cities.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange for ₹500-1000/hour; apps like UrbanClap connect to sitters.
- Medical Care: Pediatric hospitals in all metros; travel insurance recommended for non-residents.
♿ Accessibility in India
Accessible Travel
India is enhancing accessibility with ramps in metros and sites, though challenges remain in historic areas. Major cities offer wheelchair-friendly transport and attractions, with tourism boards providing guides for inclusive planning.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Select AC coaches have ramps and spaces; book via IRCTC with assistance requests.
- City Transport: Delhi and Kolkata metros are wheelchair-accessible with elevators and tactile paths.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted autos and cabs via apps; standard ones fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Delhi and Mumbai provide assistance, ramps, and priority services for disabled passengers.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Monuments: Taj Mahal and Red Fort have ramps, guides; audio aids for visually impaired.
- Historic Sites: Jaipur forts offer partial access; Qutub Minar has elevators.
- Nature & Parks: Lodhi Gardens and beaches provide paths; wildlife trains accessible.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; seek ground-floor and adapted bathrooms.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Winter (Oct-Mar) for north India; summer (Nov-Feb) for south to avoid monsoons.
Shoulder seasons offer festivals like Diwali with mild weather and fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Family tickets at sites save 20-50%; use IRCTC for train deals.
Home-cooked meals and trains keep costs low for large families.
Language
Hindi official, English widespread in tourism; regional languages vary.
Basic Hindi phrases help; locals are welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Light cottons for heat, rain gear for monsoons, modest clothes for sites.
Pet owners: familiar food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and import docs.
Useful Apps
IRCTC for trains, Ola for rides, Heads Up For Tails for pet needs.
Google Translate and Incredible India app for navigation and tips.
Health & Safety
India safe for families; drink bottled water. Vaccinations advised.
Emergency: 100 police, 108 medical. Insurance covers most needs.