Travel in India is best done by air. Failing which one travels by train. Unfortunately Indian trains are not known for their comfort. If you have to travel by train, the air-conditioned second class compartments are recommended. They are cleaner and the air-conditioning is often necessary and will keep you, and your film, cool. In railway booking parlance these coaches are known as 2A.
Most importantly, your fellow passengers are middle class Indians, always safer when you are carrying expensive equipment. Importantly, the doors to the compartment are locked at night so there is less chance of somebody entering the compartment and making off with with your cameras. Never leave your bags unattended. I carry my equipment in a small LowePro bag. A bag of this size can fit up on the sleeper berth with you. You can lie down though you will not be able to sleep, a small price to pay to ensure the safety of your equipment. Secondly, should you need the toilet, a small bag can be carried with you.
If traveling by road, we recommend hiring a Toyota Qualis. The NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels are the best in India, and the rear AC ducts are fabulous.
In most places people traveling on a tour organized by wildphototoursindia.com will experience middle class India. You may dress as you like but Indians do not take kindly to uncovered bodies. Shorts are in, semi-nudity is out. Stick to cotton and avoid denim.
The communication network in India is considerably reliable. STD/ISD booths are available on almost every corner throughout the country. Cyber Cafes and hotels also provide calling and internet facilities, which makes local and international calling easy for the tourists. Due to this making calls to India and from India is easy and cheap.
Most problems occur when backpackers, in the hope of experiencing the chimera of the 'real' India, go to rough neighbourhoods dressed as they would dress on a hot summer's day in the West.
With regard to medication, consult your doctor at home. Common ailments may be treated with a range of locally available medication, but if you have special requirements bring them along with you. Travel insurance that includes cover for medical/hospital expenses is strongly recommended.