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Pre-Trip Checklist & Logistics

Pre-Trip Checklist & Logistics

Punjab And Haryana, India

Essential Pre-Departure Steps

A chronological outline for your preparations.

Your Planning Timeline

Steps to take at various stages before your departure.

3+

Months Ahead

Passport Validity

At least six months validity; two blank pages.

Flight Research

Monitor prices to Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee (ATQ).

Travel Insurance

Research comprehensive policies for your trip, World Nomads is an option.

1-2

Months Ahead

Visa Application

Start the e-Visa or regular visa application process.

Accommodation

Book your main Amritsar accommodations, especially for high season.

Health Consultation

Consult your doctor on vaccinations and current medications.

1

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour arrangements.

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of documents.

App Downloads

Download essential apps: Google Maps (offline), Ola/Uber, Google Translate.

Advance Bookings

Secure your travel components early.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights to Amritsar require early booking.
  • High-speed trains (Shatabdi Express) benefit from advance tickets.
  • Popular hotels, especially during peak tourist season or festivals.
  • Booking early often means better availability and pricing.

Home & Personal Preparations

Getting your home ready before you leave.

Before You Depart

  • Secure your home (locks, alarms).
  • Arrange for pet care or plant watering.
  • Hold your mail or ask a trusted neighbor for collection.
  • Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary and emergency info.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Cultural Grounding

  • Read up on Indian culture.
  • Understand Sikhism.
  • Learn basic Hindi/Punjabi phrases.
  • Grasp local customs and etiquette.

Logistical Insights

  • Familiarize yourself with local transport.
  • Locate attractions.
  • Understand currency and payment options.
  • Research local dining spots and cuisine.

Packing Considerations

  • Pack climate-appropriate clothing.
  • Include any required medications.
  • Bring power adapters and converters.
  • Consider packing organizers for efficiency (Eagle Creek).

Visa Requirements

Research India's visa requirements for your nationality. Determine if an e-Visa is an option or if a regular visa application is necessary.

Arrival Procedures in Amritsar

Initial steps upon landing for a smooth transition.

Immediate Actions

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear immigration and customs procedures.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Retrieve your checked luggage.

  • 3
    Initial Currency

    Exchange a small amount for immediate needs at the airport.

Getting Oriented

  • Local SIM Card

    Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for connectivity.

  • Transport to Accommodation

    Arrange transport via prepaid taxi or app-based cab.

  • Bottled Water Purchase

    Acquire sealed bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Airport Transfers

Prepaid Taxis

Use trusted prepaid taxi counters at the airport.

They provide a fixed fare to your destination.

App-Based Rides

Utilize services like Ola or Uber for transparent pricing.

These apps track your ride and driver details.

Avoid Unsolicited Offers

Decline unmetered or unsolicited taxi offers.

Stick to official and reputable transport options.

Arrival Details

Keep your hotel address and contact number written on a small card or saved on your phone. This aids communication with taxi drivers, even if your phone's internet or battery is low.

Departure Protocol

Preparing for a stress-free exit from Amritsar.

Souvenir & Shipping Notes

  • Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  • For large item shipping, use reputable courier services well in advance.
  • Be mindful of luggage weight restrictions for your flight.
  • India does not feature a VAT refund system for tourists on purchases.

Departure Timing

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights at ATQ.
  • For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is a good time frame.
  • This allows sufficient time for check-in and security.
  • Time for any unexpected delays.

Departure Checklist

Final checks before your journey home.

Before Heading to the Airport

  • All documents (passport, boarding pass) in order?Yes/No
  • Return flight status confirmed online?Yes/No
  • Valuables packed in carry-on?Yes/No
  • Any last-minute local currency exchange needed?Yes/No

Keeping Connected Post-Trip

  • Back up photos and videos from your device.
  • Share your travel stories and tips with friends and family.
  • Consider writing a travel journal or blog.
  • Reflect on your Amritsar experiences.

Final Security Checks

Ensure all liquids in your carry-on meet airline regulations.

Remove electronics for separate screening at security checkpoints.