Unlike most countries, when you rent a car in India, you usually get a driver along with it! Obviously, it can take some time to get used to it, especially if this is your first visit to India and you have never experienced it before. Here’s what you need to know.
Why rent a car and driver?
Why not just rent a car and drive yourself? Or take the train or fly? Or take a tour? Hiring a car and driver is ideal for independent travelers who want flexibility and control over their itineraries, and the ease of travel. You will be able to stop at places that interest you and not have to worry about how to get around. While options for renting a car without a driver are increasing in India, self-driving is not recommended for mental health and safety reasons, as the roads are often in poor condition and road rules are often not followed in India. goes. Train and plane travel is useful for covering long distances, with not much to see in between. However, if you are planning to explore different destinations in a state like Jharkhand and Bihar you can hire a taxi services in Deoghar from Kinwar Cabs which is the best taxi services provider in Bihar and Jharkhand
How much is it worth?
The price will depend on the type of car and whether or not your driver speaks English (these drivers usually cost a bit more). The fee is per kilometer, and you’ll always have to pay a minimum per day (usually 250 or 300 kilometres), no matter the distance covered. Rates for each type of car vary by company, and by state and city, although the following is a general estimate:
Small car – usually an air-conditioned Tata Indica, which starts from around Rs 10 per kilometer. It is cheaper to rent a modern car as compared to the old Ambassador, which will cost you around Rs 15 per kilometer. These cars can comfortably fit two passengers but can fit four.
Medium car – usually a Toyota Innova SUV or Mahindra Xylo, starting at Rs 13 per kilometer. These cars can comfortably fit four passengers but can fit six.
Large car – usually a tempo traveller, starting from Rs 18 per kilometer. These unique vehicles are like minibuses and can accommodate up to 10 passengers. Big ones are possible.
Rates are for destination to destination travel. These usually include fuel, insurance and state taxes. Daily allowance for parking, and driver’s food and accommodation (Rs 200-500 per day), may be additional. Fares are lower for sightseeing tours within a city.
Where to hire?
Any tour company in India will be able to arrange a car and driver for you, as will most hotels. However, if anything goes wrong (such as a car breakdown or misconfiguration), you want the business to be responsible, not the driver. Hotel rates will also be expensive. Hence, it is best to book through a reputed company. If needed, these companies will also arrange hotels and guides. Some recommendations are given below at the end of the article. Most of the tourists start their journey from Delhi and go to Rajasthan, so there are many options near these places. Be sure to do a lot of research and compare to decide what suits you best. There do exist decent independent drivers with their own vehicles. You’ll need the right contacts to find them though.
Where does the driver eat and sleep?
Drivers are provided with a daily allowance (usually a few hundred rupees) by their employer to cover the cost of their food and accommodation. Some hotels offer separate accommodation specifically for drivers. However, drivers will usually sleep in their cars to save money.
Foreign tourists accustomed to equality often feel that their drivers should dine with them, especially during lunch if they are on the road. However this is not the norm in India. Drivers have their favorite places to eat, and they may not be comfortable joining you for social reasons (India is very hierarchically-oriented). It doesn’t hurt to ask though. Don’t be surprised if they are reluctant to accept the invitation.
Tip the Driver
Is it necessary and how much? Your driver will certainly expect a tip. Rs 200 to 400 per day is reasonable, depending on how happy you are with his services.
What to Keep in Mind
The condition of roads in India is variable and can be very bad at some places. It may take you longer than expected to reach your destination, so keep this in mind and allow enough time when planning your itinerary. Don’t always believe the travel times shown by Google Maps!
If comfort is a factor, it is worth paying more to get a better vehicle such as a spacious Toyota Innova or Mahindra Xylo. Roads get bumpy in poor condition and the lack of good suspension will be very noticeable in older cars. Also, most people prefer to choose an air-conditioned car as the roads can be dusty and the weather can be hot.
The tax can be costly for vehicles crossing state borders, so check whether it is included in the quoted price.
The car will have to return to its starting destination (at your expense), so keep that in mind when planning your trip and budget.
Drivers do not act as guides. They’ll take care of your itinerary, get you to each destination, and answer common questions. Although they will not accompany you inside the monuments and attractions.
other things to expect
Your driver may invite you home to meet up with your family or have dinner. This can be interpreted as a friendly and warm gesture. Many tourists feel obligated to provide some money/financial support. If you’re okay with that, especially if your driver has been honest and helpful, no problem!
It is possible that your driver will suggest that you shop at certain places and dine at certain restaurants. This is because he will get commission from those places or get free food. It can get tiring after a while, especially if you’re not interested in doing it. Persevere in the fall.
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