Driving In India

If you want to drive within the city then avoid driving, hire a cab or driver. If you want to drive on the highway then Delhi to Agra (Taj Express Way) is the best place to feel a classical driving experience.
 
bhu1 said:
If you want to drive within the city then avoid driving, hire a cab or driver. If you want to drive on the highway then Delhi to Agra (Taj Express Way) is the best place to feel a classical driving experience.
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Haha, no way. After watching what my cabbie had to go through - classical driving experience is not what I'd define it as :).

I've just seen too many people not respecting the rules of the road in Delhi to even broach the idea of getting behind the wheel. I guess it works for some people, though - but not this guy!
 
BayouBilly said:
Haha, no way. After watching what my cabbie had to go through - classical driving experience is not what I'd define it as :).

I've just seen too many people not respecting the rules of the road in Delhi to even broach the idea of getting behind the wheel. I guess it works for some people, though - but not this guy!
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I am talking about Taj Express Way dude! not in Delhi city
 
I don't think you will be able to get a license and able to drive if just in town for a short stay. I say stick to taxis and find a driver you like and stick to him. It is so much easier that way!
 
Speaking of licensing, what kind of training and license do you have to have to be allowed to drive in India? I know in a European country you can hire a car if you have a full driving license in your own country, does that apply in India or are the rules a lot more strict?
 
Hi Steve! My advise to you is that you avoid driving in India at all costs. A good option is to rent a car and hire a chauffeur during your stay there. My advise is based on your personal safety and that of your colleagues. Driving in India is not safe for someone who has never lived there. The driving is very complicated and chaotic, and from what I saw in my last stay there, there are a lot of hit and runs. So again it's best if you hire a professional. Maybe someone here can suggest a Transportation or Chauffeuring company that you might be able to hire while in India. Best of luck to you. Have a great trip.
 
It's always good to educate yourself on how to drive in a foreign country. Just because you will driving on the same side of the road, doesn't mean that all of the same rules apply.
 
Driving in India isn't so pleasant. Yes, of course. But things are improving. Expressways, dedicated lanes, and flyovers are coming up everywhere. It may be developing slowly. But the high growth rate of population negates everything. It's embarrassing but true.

In any case, a foreigner coming to India is best advised to avoid driving and hire a cab or a rent a car along with a chauffeur for the entire length of his/her stay. Air conditioned sedans are available at inexpensive rates and can be pre-booked.
 
Steve Dawson said:
Could anyone advise me how quickly I would be able to pick up the local rules and regulations and how difficult it would be for a foreigner to drive in India ?
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Well, it really depends on how long you will be staying in India and just how good your driving skills are. Because believe me, they will be really tested in countries like mine or India. Lol. Like you said, it can be chaotic, driving in the roads of India. Be prepared for unusual scenarios you might encounter once you drive in India.

As much as possible, I'd advice you to just hire a driver for your whole trip. Or better yet, observe the road scenarios first before driving in India. It's not impossible for you to adapt to the local rules, regulations and all these things. But it can take a while before you can fully embrace them.

Here's a little guideline on what you can expect when you drive in Indian roads or highways:
  • Motorcycles are the major mode of transportation for an average family. Don't be shocked to see three or even more people in one motorcycle. Don't be shocked as well to see children riding the motorcycle, sometimes without even a helmet.
  • Not much space between cars. I wasn't really that shocked with this one as well as this is also the case in my country.
  • Honking is okay. My husband used to live in America and he said that honking your car's horn there is kind of frowned upon. But in India, it's okay to honk especially when you're making a difficult manoeuvre or maybe just because you felt like it.
  • Lenient load limits for bicycles, motorcycles and cars.
So there you go, it's up to you really. I think it can be a great experience to drive the roads of India even once in your life. It's something that I've never really done but would love to do so.

Good luck!
 
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