Here is a detailed guide for travel safety, essential tips, and important contacts in Kanchipuram. This information is curated so any new tourist or city visitor will have everything needed for a safe and pleasant trip.
Travel Safely in Kanchipuram
- Kanchipuram is generally peaceful with a low crime rate, especially compared to larger cities. Violent crime is rare, but keep valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded places where pickpocketing may occur.
- Avoid isolated and dark streets at night, even though main streets are considered safe.
- Prefer reputed and established silk shops to avoid counterfeit products.
- Negotiate fares with auto-rickshaw drivers before boarding or ensure the use of a meter.
- Drink bottled or filtered water. Carry your own reusable water bottle for eco-friendly tourism.
- Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering temple premises.
- Respect local traditions and the privacy of worshippers.
- Carry sunscreen and water during sightseeing due to hot weather, especially from March to June.
- Learn a few basic Tamil phrases, though English is widely understood at tourist spots.
- Bargain at markets, but do so respectfully.
- Download offline maps or use Google Maps for reliable navigation, as sidewalks can be crowded or blocked.
- For transportation, choose from auto-rickshaws, local taxis, rental cars, or buses. Walking is a good choice for temple areas, but watch out for uneven walkways.
Important Contacts & Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number / Details |
|---|---|
| All-in-One Emergency | 112 |
| Police | 100, 112 |
| Fire | 101 |
| Ambulance | 102, 108 |
| Disaster Helpline | 1070, 1077, 1078 |
| Women Helpline | 1091 |
| Child Helpline | 1098 |
| Railway Police | 9962500500, 1512 |
| Tourist Helpline | 1913 (national), 25368538 (Tamil Nadu State) |
| Medical Emergencies | Government Hospital, Kanchipuram: Searchable locally |
| Tourist Info Office | Tamil Nadu Tourism: 25368538; Kanchipuram Bus Stand and Ekambaranathar Temple vicinityi |
| Taxi Services | Call local 24-hour taxis, details at major hotels and railway stations |
Responsible Tourism & Eco-Tips
- Minimize plastic use—carry reusable bags and bottles.
- Support local artisans and handloom cooperatives for authentic souvenirs.
- Choose eco-friendly hotels where possible.
Final Advice
- If you need urgent help, dial 112 for pan-India emergency services.
- Keep scanned copies or photos of your passport/ID, especially for international tourists.
- Note down your hotel address and emergency numbers in both English and Tamil for quick reference.