• Business hours in the private sector are 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• Indian executives prefer late morning or early afternoon appointments, between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

• Foreigners are advised to Request appointments by letter / e-mail about two months before arriving in India. This is especially valid when requesting appointment with any branch of the government.

• Different holidays are observed throughout the many regions and states of India. As dates for the holidays change from year to year, verify this information with the Indian Tourist Office, Consulate or Embassy, or the Indo-French Chamber (IFCCI) before scheduling your visit.

• Keep in mind that rescheduling and delays are sometimes a necessary part of doing business with your Indian contacts. In India familial responsibilities may some times take on proportions, which may not be seen in other countries of the world.

• It is advisable to be in time for your appointments even if you have to wait for a few minutes.

• The best time of year to visit India is between October and March, so that you can avoid the seasons of extreme heat and monsoons.