A Comprehensive Guide, How to Travel from India to London
pokomde.info – Traveling from India to London offers a range of experiences, from convenient direct flights to adventurous overland routes. Whether you’re a tourist, student, or business traveler, reaching London from India can be both straightforward and exciting, depending on your travel style. Here’s a guide on the various ways to travel from India to London, with tips to suit different preferences.
1. By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Way
The most popular and practical way to travel from India to London is by flying. Major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai have regular direct flights to London Heathrow Airport. You can also find connecting flights from almost any major city in India via European or Middle Eastern hubs.
Direct Flights:
- Airlines: British Airways, Air India, Vistara, Virgin Atlantic
- Flight Time: 9–10 hours for direct flights
- Departure Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other major Indian cities
Best for: Those seeking speed and convenience, as well as comfort for a long international journey.
Tips for Booking Flights:
- Book in advance: Flight prices can be high, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and holiday periods).
- Look for deals: Check for promotional offers, frequent flyer points, and student discounts.
- Plan for jet lag: The time difference between India and London is typically 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the season.
2. By Train and Road: The Overland Adventure Route
For adventurous travelers with time to spare, it’s possible to travel from India to London overland, combining train and bus journeys. This route was popular during the 1960s and 70s with the famous “Hippie Trail,” and though it’s more complex today, it’s still possible with careful planning.
Route Overview:
- India to Pakistan: Start by crossing from India into Pakistan via the Wagah border (near Amritsar). From here, travel by train or bus to major Pakistani cities like Lahore or Islamabad.
- Pakistan to Iran: From Pakistan, head westward to Iran, typically by crossing the Taftan border. The bus and road networks in Iran are well-developed, allowing you to travel through beautiful Persian landscapes.
- Iran to Turkey: Once in Iran, you can travel to Turkey, either by bus or train. The route often goes through Tehran to Ankara or Istanbul in Turkey. The Trans-Asia Express, a train connecting Iran and Turkey, is an exciting option for rail enthusiasts.
- Turkey to Europe: From Turkey, there are multiple options for entering Europe. Trains and buses connect Turkey to countries like Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. Once in Europe, use Europe’s extensive rail and bus network to travel across the continent.
- Europe to London: Once you reach mainland Europe, you can take high-speed trains such as the Eurostar (from Paris or Brussels) to cross the English Channel into London.
Travel Time:
Depending on the number of stops and the mode of transportation, this overland journey can take 3–4 weeks or longer.
Highlights:
- The cultural contrast between South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe
- Iconic cities like Lahore, Tehran, Istanbul, and Paris
- Scenic mountain ranges, deserts, and historic landmarks along the way
Best for: Adventure lovers who want to experience multiple countries and cultures on their way to London.
3. By Road: The “Bus to London” Option
In recent years, a unique bus service has gained popularity—taking travelers from India to London by road! This modern version of the overland trip is an organized group tour that spans over 70 days, crossing through 18 countries.
Key Features:
- Departure City: Delhi
- Route: India → Myanmar → Thailand → Laos → China → Central Asia → Europe → London
- Countries: The bus crosses through Southeast Asia, China, Central Asia, Turkey, and Europe before arriving in London.
- Inclusions: Accommodation, guided tours, meals, and sightseeing at major stops.
Why It’s Special:
The “Bus to London” option provides a hassle-free way to experience multiple countries without the stress of organizing transport, accommodation, and visas on your own. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who want to truly savor the journey.
4. Important Considerations
Visas:
Whether flying or traveling overland, ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months and apply for visas well in advance.
- For direct flights: Indian passport holders will need a UK visa to enter London.
- For overland travel: You’ll need multiple visas for countries like Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, and those in Europe’s Schengen Zone. Each country has different requirements, so plan accordingly.
Health and Safety:
- Ensure you have necessary vaccinations and health precautions, especially for overland travel.
- Carry travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, or trip delays.
Packing:
- For Flights: Pack light and adhere to airline baggage policies.
- For Overland Travel: Be prepared for a range of climates. Pack sturdy shoes, lightweight clothing for hot climates, warm layers for Europe, and a travel adapter for electronics.
pokomde.info – Traveling from India to London offers a range of experiences, from convenient direct flights to adventurous overland routes. Whether you’re a tourist, student, or business traveler, reaching London from India can be both straightforward and exciting, depending on your travel style. Here’s a guide on the various ways to travel from India to…