Punjab Punjab And Haryana, India Travel Guide
See your doctor or a travel clinic well before your trip for vaccinations. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is necessary exclusively if you arrive from or transit through a country with Yellow Fever transmission risk. Check current public health advice. Recommended vaccinations include routine ones (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio, annual influenza immunization), Hep A and B, and Typhoid. Consider Rabies if planning a long-term stay, work with animals, or visits to rural areas. Je is an option for extended time in rural agricultural areas, especially during monsoon season.
Common health concerns include Traveler's Diarrhea. Drink only bottled or purified water, always checking the seal. Steer clear of ice from tap water. Eat only hot, well-cooked food. Avoid fruits with the skin on and raw vegetables washed in tap water. Wash hands frequently or use Hand Sanitizer. Mosquito-diseases spread by vectors (Dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria) are present. Use Insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants. A Mosquito Repellent with DEET is effective. Heatstroke/Dehydration is a risk during summer. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid midday activity. Air pollution can be elevated in winter; a face mask is an option if sensitive to air quality.
Tap water is generally not safe for direct consumption. Stick to bottled water (check the seal), filtered water, or water purified using a portable filter. Eat hot, food cooked to order. Avoid raw salads, whole fruits, and food from street stalls which look unhygienic. Look for busy eateries with high customer turnover; this suggests fresh preparation.
India generally does not require mandatory health certificates or vaccination proofs beyond routine vaccinations for entry, except for Yellow Fever if coming from a risk country.
Vigilance in crowded areas
Theft from pockets and bag grabbing occur in crowded areas. Be watchful and secure belongings.
Tourists face touts, overcharging taxi drivers, or unsolicited "help." Be firm but polite.
Extra caution advised
Punjab is considered safe for tourists in major cities and popular areas.
Solo female travelers should exercise extra caution, especially after dark. Dress modestly.
Seasonal risks present
Severe heatwaves occur during May-June. Monsoons (July-September) bring localized flooding.
Dense fog during The month of december-January impacts visibility, causing travel delays for flights and trains.
Keep this information easily accessible. Area Emergency Contacts: All-in-one Emergency: 112. Police: 100. Fire: 101. Ambulance: 102. Also, keep the contact details of your country's embassy or consulate in India (most likely in New Delhi) readily accessible. Register your travel plans with them if that service is available.
Report a lost passport or visa to the local police immediately. Obtain a copy of the First Information Report (FIR). Then, contact your embassy or consulate for assistance with emergency travel documents.
Get a policy that covers medical evacuation for serious incidents.
Consider AirHelp for delayed or canceled flights.
Explore anti-theft bags and products from Pacsafe.
Pack supplies from Adventure Medical Kits.
Consider water purification items from LifeStraw.
