Inbound Students › Welcome Guide
Welcome to Bihar & Jharkhand
Everything you need to know before you arrive.
Language
The official languages are Hindi and English. English is widely spoken in schools, Rotary circles and urban areas. You will pick up Hindi quickly — your host family and classmates will be your best teachers. In Jharkhand you may also encounter regional languages such as Santali and Maithili.
Religion & Culture
Bihar and Jharkhand are home to people of many faiths — Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jain and Buddhist communities all coexist. You will likely experience festivals, rituals and customs from several traditions during your stay. Approach everything with curiosity and respect.
💡 Tip: Remove your shoes before entering homes and places of worship. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
Food
Expect delicious, flavourful food — rice, dal, sabzi (vegetable dishes), rotis and an abundance of spices. Many host families eat vegetarian meals. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, inform your host family and the RYE Chair well in advance.
🌶️ Food can be spicy by international standards. Your palate will adjust — most students love it within a few weeks.
Getting Around
Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) are the primary means of transport in Jamshedpur. You will not be permitted to drive any vehicle during your exchange. Your host family will help you with transport to school and Rotary events.
Money & Banking
India's currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available in Jamshedpur. Inform your bank at home before you travel. UPI-based payments (Google Pay, PhonePe) are used everywhere and your host family can help you set this up.
Staying Connected
SIM cards from Jio or Airtel are inexpensive and easy to obtain with your passport. You will have good 4G coverage throughout Jamshedpur. WiFi is available in most homes and schools.
Health & Safety
Jamshedpur is considered one of the safer cities in Jharkhand. Standard precautions apply — don't travel alone at night, keep your counsellor informed of your whereabouts and carry your Rotary ID at all times.
Drink only bottled or filtered water. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date before arrival — consult your doctor at home about recommended vaccinations for India.