Travel Safely & Travel Tips & Important Contacts in Belagavi

Belagavi
Posted on | by Anuj

When traveling to Belagavi (formerly known as Belgaum), it’s essential to stay safe and prepared. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you travel safely and make the most of your visit, including important contacts for emergencies and general travel tips:

Travel Safely: Tips for Visitors

  1. Health & Hygiene:
    • Carry hand sanitizers and face masks, especially in crowded areas.
    • Drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water to prevent waterborne diseases.
    • Make sure you have any necessary medications with you, including common items like pain relievers, antiseptic creams, and allergy medications.
  2. Respect Local Customs:
    • Belagavi, like much of Karnataka, is a culturally rich area. It’s advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites such as temples and churches.
    • Be aware of local etiquette when it comes to greetings and behavior in public spaces.
  3. Transportation Safety:
    • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services like Ola or Uber. Avoid using unauthorized vehicles to ensure your safety.
    • If using public transport, be mindful of your belongings. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep your valuables in a safe place.
  4. Street Food:
    • While street food in Belagavi is delicious, always choose places that are clean and busy, as they tend to have fresher ingredients.
    • If you’re sensitive to spices or have a weak stomach, it’s better to start with milder options and gradually try the spicier ones.
  5. Road Safety:
    • Pedestrians should be cautious while crossing roads, especially near markets and busier areas like Camp Area.
    • Wear seat belts in vehicles and helmets if you’re using two-wheelers. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, use a helmet even if it’s not legally required.

Travel Tips for Belagavi:

  1. Best Time to Visit:
    • The ideal time to visit Belagavi is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Summers (April to June) can be quite hot, and the monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains that might disrupt travel plans.
  2. Essential Apps to Download:
    • Google Maps: For navigation around the city and finding attractions, hotels, restaurants, etc.
    • Zomato: For discovering popular restaurants and street food joints in the city.
    • Ola/Uber: For easy and safe transportation within the city.
    • IRCTC: If you plan to use trains for travel in and around Belagavi.
  3. Language:
    • The primary language spoken in Belagavi is Kannada, but you will also find people speaking Marathi and Hindi. English is widely understood in commercial and tourist areas.
  4. Currency & Payment:
    • The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are available in most areas, and many places accept cards (Visa, MasterCard). However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or rural areas.
  5. Dress Code:
    • Modesty: When visiting religious places, it is essential to dress modestly (covering shoulders and legs). Light cotton clothes are ideal for the warm climate.
    • Footwear: Many temples and cultural sites require visitors to remove shoes before entry, so opt for comfortable footwear.

Emergency Contacts in Belagavi:

  1. Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 100
    • Ambulance: 108
    • Fire Department: 101
    • Local Police Station (Camp Area): 0831-2423004
    • Traffic Police: 0831-2423286
    • Ambulance (Private): 0831-2482555
  2. Hospitals:
    • KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital: 0831-2473560
    • Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS): 0831-2421193
    • Narayana Hrudayalaya: 0831-2409999
  3. Tourist Information:
    • Belagavi District Tourism Office: 0831-2402946
    • Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC): 080-22169068
  4. Embassies (for International Tourists):
    • Indian Ministry of External Affairs (for passport or visa-related issues): 011-23011111
    • Nearest International Airport: Dabolim Airport (Goa) – 140 km from Belagavi for international flights.

Local Food and Drink Safety:

  • Food Hygiene: Always opt for well-cooked food, especially in street food stalls. Choose eateries with a high customer turnover.
  • Water: It’s advisable to drink bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water as it might not be suitable for foreign visitors.
  • Spicy Food: Belagavi is known for its spicy food. If you’re not used to spicy dishes, ask for milder preparations.

Other Important Information:

  • Shopping: Visit markets like Khade Bazaar, Maruti Galli, and Ramdev Galli for souvenirs such as silk sarees, brassware, and traditional jewelry.
  • Transport: Belagavi has local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis for easy travel. It’s also connected by train and road to major cities like Bangalore and Mumbai.
  • Wi-Fi: Most hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Local sim cards are available at the airport or from mobile service providers in the city.

Summary:

  • Explore Safely: Be cautious when crossing busy roads, and always use trusted transport services.
  • Travel Light & Smart: Use local maps, apps, and take note of emergency contact numbers.
  • Health First: Carry personal medications, keep hydrated, and avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

With these practical tips and important contacts, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Belagavi!