The paranthas of the dhabas at Murthal in Sonepat are famous all over the country. And since I get to visit New Delhi all so often, I get many chances to visit one of the popular ones. Yesterday was one such occasion. We stopped at the most famous of them all, Ahuja No. 1 and had the regular dose of tasty daal makhni and paranthas. The crowd has multiplied, tables have replaced khaats, trucks have been replaced by cars (I even saw an Octavia standing there) and if you want, you can sit in a fully air conditioned room. But the service is prompt, food is great and you still get that déjà vu feeling! The prices are on the higher side in the better ones but still 250 bucks for great Indian food for 3 people is not a bad deal.

All foreigners visiting India must hold a valid visa. They are very easy to obtain and the application is very straight forward and can easily be obtained from your nearest Indian Mission (Embassy, consulate or high commission). In India, the Foreigners’ Registration Office can help you in extending your visa, in case required.
Foreigners’ Registration Offices
1st Floor, Hans Bhavan, Near Tilak Bridge, New Delhi, India. Pin : 110001
Phone : +(91)-(11)-3319489
This office is open weekdays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm.

A Tax Clearance Certificate is required, in case your stay is more than 120 days and can be obtained from Central Revenue Building during weekdays.
Central Revenue Building
Income Tax Office (Foreign Section), Vikas Marg, New Delhi, India. Pin : 110001
Phone : +(91)-(11)-3317826
Office is closed for lunch break during 1 to 2 pm.

Always carry photocopies of your important travel documents, which should be kept separate from the originals. A separate visa is required to visit restricted areas like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland.

It is advisable not to pack too many things, as it is impossible not to buy things in India. In fact the most reluctant and miserly shoppers succumb within the first few days unless they are held back. Just carry things that can be used up and thrown out at the end (creams, shampoos etc.) Though a lot of variety is available in the big cities.

Sightseeing Packing - For daily travelling, must consist of a hand towel, a small bar of soap, a toilet roll, face tissue or handkerchiefs and a bottle for water. A camera, with ample roll of films (good quality films are available in the big cities), a pair of binoculars, which can help with looking closer at birds, wildlife and detailed carving on buildings. Electrical gadgets work on “220 V”. Sealed Mineral Water is available freely.
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