Frequently Asked Questions

The following documents should be submited to the Russian Embassy or Consulate to obtain a Private Visa (Homestay Visa) to enter Russia:

1. Your original passport with at least 2 blank visa-designated pages (passport must be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from Russia).
2. Two copies of Russian visa application form, completed and signed.
3. Two passport-size photos signed on the back.
4. Visa entitlement certificate (IZVESHENIYE) from the local OVIR in Russia. Your host must obtain this certificate for you and send the original certificate to you. Your host will need to know:
Your Full Name;
Address;
Nationality;
Passport Number and Date of Birth;
Your Date of Arrival/Departure in Russia.
(The cost of OVIR application is about USD35. Allow 4-6 weeks for OVIR's approval).
For more and latest information for visas from India please go to http://www.india-ifs.com/.

You can legally bring to Russia any amount of cash money; however you are required to declare a sum that is more than $3,000. You can legally bring out of Russia only $3,000 in cash. If you have more, the rest of the sum must be accompanied by a special certificate from a Russian bank.

All prices in Russia are given in roubles, and it is prohibited by law for any outfit to accept any other currency except the national one. USD and EURO have the best exchange rates and can be easily exchanged
Are there any restrictions on the travel checks (Thomas Cook, American Express, Visa etc.) or credit cards in Russia?

No, there are no restrictions. Credit cards and travel checks are not to be declared and can be used freely. Russian banks can cash your travel checks. You can also buy travel checks in Russian banks. You can find ATM Machines in the hotels, airports and banks.

Average winter temperatures range between 0°C and - 20°C. December, February and March are some of the best months to visit Siberia in winter with great snowfall, frozen lakes and rivers like Lake Baikal which freezes over. Temperatures range from the 21C-32C in the day to the 10C-21C at night in Summer months between May-September.

Despite perceptions, Russia is actually an incredibly safe place. It is a European country similar to other parts of Europe. During your entire trip you will have the safety and comfort of a private vehicle and driver and one of our tour leaders.
Naturally there are basic precautions you should take travelling anywhere in the world. We recommend that you carry a copy of your passport and visa with you at all times. Your tour leader can advise on secure storage of your original documents at each of the destinations, usually a hotel safe will be available in your room. Be cautious, just like most major European cities, Russia also has its share of pick pockets.

Yes, we suggest that you check with your service provider before you go to ensure you have international roaming and they have a service agreement with one of Russia’s national telcos. We suggest however that you consider buying a local sim card to help keep your international roaming charges down. Mobile network coverage will be limited or non-existent when you’re touring the more remote areas.

Tipping is entirely at your own discretion. Tips are not included in our tour price. We recommend you tip a certain percentage only if you are satisfied with the service and feel comfortable leaving a tip or gratuity. If you do decide to leave a tip, they can be made in US Dollars, Euros and Rubles (recommended). The average tip is between 5-10% of the price of the service.

Electrical adapters in Russia use the two prongs round European outlets. Hence it is advisable to carry your adaptors if travelling from India.