Burhanpur is generally a welcoming and peaceful city, but like any historical destination with narrow lanes and busy markets, it requires some savvy navigation. This guide centralizes all safety protocols and emergency contacts to ensure you have a worry-free visit.
Travel Safety Tips
1. Navigating the City
- Confirm Fares First: Always negotiate and confirm the fare with auto-rickshaw drivers before you start your journey. There are no fixed meters for local transport.
- Narrow Lanes: The old city has very narrow, crowded streets. It is best to explore these areas on foot or by cycle-rickshaw rather than trying to take a large vehicle.
- Walking Safety: Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. Many historical sites like the Fort walls and Asirgarh have uneven, rocky terrain.
2. Personal Safety & Etiquette
- Solo Female Travelers: Burhanpur is considered safe, but it is advised to avoid poorly lit or deserted areas after 9:00 PM. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) to respect the local conservative culture, especially when visiting religious sites like Jama Masjid or Dargah-e-Hakimi.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before filming or photographing locals. Note that some religious inner sanctums may prohibit photography entirely.
- Hydration & Sun: The Central Indian sun can be harsh. Carry a reusable water bottle and wear a hat, even in winter.
3. Food & Health
- Street Food: While the Mawa Jalebi is a must-try, ensure you eat from busy stalls where food turnover is high.
- Water: Stick to bottled mineral water or filtered water provided at reputed hotels.
Important Emergency Contacts
In India, the universal emergency number is 112. However, local direct lines are often faster.
Police & Administration
| Department | Contact Number |
| Police Control Room | 07325-242100 / 100 |
| SP Office Burhanpur | 07325-242103 |
| Kotwali Police Station (Old City) | 07325-255233 |
| Lalbagh Police Station (Near Station) | 07325-243276 |
| Women Helpline | 1090 / 1091 |
| Child Helpline | 1098 |
Medical & Fire
| Service | Contact Number |
| Ambulance (Emergency) | 108 / 102 |
| District Govt Hospital | 07325-241573 |
| Fire Brigade | 101 |
| Bembde Hospital (Private) | +91 7325 241241 |
Safe Areas to Stay
- For Connectivity: Stay near the Railway Station (Lalbagh area). It is well-lit and always has transport available.
- For Heritage: Stay near Gandhi Chowk or Shanwara Road to be within walking distance of the Shahi Qila and Jama Masjid.
- Top Rated Safety Picks: MPT Tapti Retreat: Run by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, highly recommended for families and international tourists.
- Hotel High Rise Regency: A reliable mid-range option with modern amenities.
Transport & Connectivity Tips
- Railway Station: Burhanpur (BPU) is about 8 km from the main city center (Gandhi Chowk). Allow 20–30 minutes for the commute due to traffic.
- Mobile Connectivity: 4G/5G coverage is excellent across the city (Airtel and Jio work best).
- Offline Maps: Download the Burhanpur area on Google Maps before heading to Asirgarh Fort, as network signals can be spotty on the hilltop.
