Arriving at Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore and planning to explore Madhya Pradesh? Renting a car offers flexibility, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and the specifics of driving in India. This guide covers everything from finding your rental to navigating local roads.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main airport terminal building, often near the arrivals hall. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ – they are usually quite visible. Several companies typically operate at Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, including options like Avis, Hertz, and Zoomcar. Pickup points can vary, sometimes involving a short shuttle ride to an off-airport facility, so pay attention to the instructions in your confirmation email.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For solo travelers or couples sticking to city driving, an economy car is often sufficient. Families or those planning trips to more remote areas might prefer a larger vehicle. Here are some popular choices:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy (e.g., Maruti Suzuki Alto) | $15 - $25 |
| Compact (e.g., Hyundai i20) | $20 - $35 |
| Mid-Size (e.g., Toyota Corolla) | $30 - $50 |
| SUV (e.g., Mahindra Scorpio) | $50 - $80 |
| Luxury (e.g., Toyota Camry) | $80 - $150+ |
Prices change by season and availability.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license (international permits are often required for foreign visitors), a passport, and a credit card in the primary driver’s name. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, but some companies may have higher age restrictions, especially for certain vehicle classes. A security deposit is standard – this is typically held on your credit card and released upon the vehicle’s safe return. Be aware of the deposit amount, as it can vary significantly depending on the car type. Payment is almost always by credit card; debit cards are rarely accepted.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers loss or damage due to theft. ‘Excess’ refers to the amount you’re still responsible for paying in the event of damage or theft, even with CDW. It’s worth checking if your existing travel insurance or credit card provides rental car coverage before purchasing additional insurance at the desk. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Driving in India can be different from what you’re used to. Roads can be busy, and traffic rules aren’t always strictly followed. Toll roads are common, so keep some small denomination currency handy. Parking can be challenging in city centers. Speed limits are generally lower than in many Western countries, but they may not always be clearly posted. Be prepared for a more assertive driving style and always prioritize defensive driving.
If you’re visiting India from abroad, an international driving permit is usually required alongside your home country’s driver’s license.
Most rental companies require a major credit card for both payment and the security deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle itself, but usually doesn’t cover things like tires or windshields.
It’s wise to have some level of insurance. Check if your existing travel insurance or credit card offers coverage before purchasing from the rental company.
Report any damage immediately to the rental company and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
Automatic transmission cars are becoming more common, but manual transmission vehicles are still more prevalent and often cheaper.
Rental cars should come with a spare tire, jack, and wheel wrench. If you’re unsure how to change a tire, contact the rental company for assistance.
Toll roads are common. Have some small denomination currency ready to pay at the toll booths.
A GPS or smartphone with a reliable map app is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore outside of Indore.
In India, they drive on the left side of the road.
Yes, but you’ll need to declare the additional driver at the rental desk and they may need to meet the same requirements as the primary driver.
Late returns usually incur extra charges, often calculated per hour or day. Check the rental agreement for details.