Travel Tips & Safety

Travel Tips & Safety

Roorkee is a safe and well-connected city, known for its educational institutions, military presence, and industrial zones. Whether you're visiting for business, education, or tourism, following these safety and travel tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. General Safety Tips in Roorkee ✅

✅ Stay in Well-Located Hotels – Choose hotels near NH-334, IIT Roorkee, or the city center for safety and convenience.
✅ Avoid Traveling Alone at Night – Some outskirts and isolated areas may not be safe after dark.
✅ Keep Emergency Contacts Handy – Save police, ambulance, and hotel numbers in your phone.
✅ Beware of Pickpockets – Markets and bus stands can be crowded; keep your valuables secure.
✅ Respect Local Customs & Traditions – Roorkee has a mix of traditional and modern cultures, so dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

 Tip: Roorkee is safe for tourists and business travelers, but always stay aware of your surroundings.

2. Transportation & Commuting Safety

Roorkee has various transport options, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses.

A. Local Transport Safety

 Taxis & Private Cabs – Prefer Ola, Uber, or pre-booked taxis for safe travel.
 Local Buses – Budget-friendly but can be crowded during peak hours.
 Auto-Rickshaws & Vikrams (Shared Autos) – Common for short-distance travel, but negotiate fares before starting.
 Cycle Rickshaws – Best for short market visits.

 Tip: Avoid unregistered taxis or rickshaws, especially at night.

B. Road Safety in & Around Roorkee

 Traffic Can Be Heavy – Expect congestion in Civil Lines Market and Roorkee Main Bazaar during peak hours.
 Bike Rentals Available – Wear a helmet and follow traffic rules if renting a bike.
 Be Careful While Walking – Roads are often crowded with vehicles, cows, and street vendors.

 Tip: If traveling to Haridwar or Dehradun, check road conditions and weather updates, especially during monsoons.

3. Accommodation & Hotel Safety

✅ Book Hotels Near Business & Tourist Areas – Prefer stays near IIT Roorkee, Civil Lines, or NH-334 for security and convenience.
✅ Check Hotel Reviews – Use Google, TripAdvisor, or Booking.com for well-rated options.
✅ Lock Your Room & Valuables – Always use hotel safes for important documents and cash.
✅ Avoid Isolated Guesthouses – Stick to business-class hotels or well-known accommodations.

 Recommended Business & Tourist Hotels:
 Radisson Blu Roorkee – Best for corporate travelers & luxury stays.
 Hotel Centrum Roorkee – Offers budget-friendly yet secure stays.
 Ark Hotel & Convention Centre – A good mid-range option for business travelers.

 Tip: Book in advance during festivals or peak travel season to avoid last-minute price hikes.

4. Food & Water Safety in Roorkee

✅ Eat at Clean & Crowded Places – Freshly prepared food is safer.
✅ Drink Bottled or Filtered Water – Avoid tap water; buy sealed water bottles.
✅ Avoid Street Food in Monsoons – Risk of waterborne diseases increases.
✅ Try Sattvic & Organic Meals – Many restaurants offer healthy, home-cooked-style food.

 Best Places for Hygienic Food:
 Haveli Restaurant – Ideal for traditional Indian food.
 The Chocolate Room – Best for snacks, desserts, and coffee.
 Domino’s Pizza & The Hunger Box – Offers fast food & quick meals.

 Tip: If trying street food, go to well-known stalls and check for hygiene.

5. Women’s Safety in Roorkee

Roorkee is generally safe for female travelers, but take precautions:

✅ Avoid Isolated Areas After Dark – Stick to well-lit and crowded streets.
✅ Stay in Business-Friendly Hotels – Many hotels cater specifically to women travelers.
✅ Respect Local Dress Norms – Modest clothing is recommended, especially in temples and religious sites.
✅ Use Registered Transport – Prefer Ola/Uber or hotel-arranged taxis over random autos.

 Tip: If uncomfortable, seek help from hotel staff, local women, or police officers.

6. Safety During Festivals & Crowded Events

Festivals like Navratri, Diwali, and Holi attract large crowds.

✅ Arrive Early for Temple Visits & Events – Crowds increase in the evenings.
✅ Stay with Your Group – Avoid getting lost in large gatherings.
✅ Keep Emergency Numbers Handy – Police and medical assistance are available.
✅ Use Public Toilets – Avoid using unsafe roadside restrooms.

 Tip: During Kanwar Yatra, be cautious while traveling as highways get crowded with pilgrims.

7. ATM & Money Safety in Roorkee

✅ Use ATMs in Secure Locations – Prefer ATMs inside banks or shopping malls.
✅ Keep Some Cash – Small vendors may not accept digital payments.
✅ Beware of Fake Currency – Always check notes received from vendors.
✅ Avoid Showing Large Amounts of Cash – Pickpockets target tourists.

 Tip: UPI payments like Google Pay & Paytm are widely accepted in Roorkee.

8. Shopping Safety in Roorkee

✅ Bargain Smartly – Street vendors may overcharge; negotiate prices.
✅ Beware of Fake Products – Especially for electronics, Rudraksha beads, and handicrafts.
✅ Check Product Authenticity – Especially for Ayurvedic medicines & brass idols.
✅ Avoid Pushy Vendors – If a seller is too aggressive, walk away.

 Tip: Civil Lines Market & Indira Market are the best places for authentic shopping.

9. Emergency Contacts & Useful Numbers

 Roorkee Police Helpline: 112
 Tourist Helpline: 1364
 Women’s Helpline: 1091
 Ambulance (Medical Emergency): 108
 Railway Helpline: 139
 Jolly Grant Airport Helpline: 0135-2412052

 Tip: Save these numbers before traveling for quick access in emergencies.

Roorkee is a safe and business-friendly city, but staying cautious and informed will ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Whether you're visiting for business, tourism, or shopping, following these safety and travel tips will help you make the most of your journey.

 Plan your trip and explore Roorkee with confidence!