Discover our family journey from Chandigarh to Delhi by Volvo bus with a sick baby. Tips for baby travel, local advice !
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey of Chandigarh to Delhi Volvo Bus
Deciding to Leave Chandigarh
Sweetie wasn’t feeling well, and that changed our plans entirely. Originally, we had hoped to explore Amritsar, with its famous Golden Temple and the India-Pakistan border ceremonies. Alternatively, we considered heading to Shimla, the British colonial summer capital known for its cooler climate.
But both cities lacked reliable medical facilities, and Sweetie’s health was our top priority. With rising costs in Chandigarh, we made the decision to return to Delhi, a city with better hospitals and support systems.
Navigating the Bus Terminals
Using the MakeMyTrip site, we confirmed bus schedules. However, confusion arose when we learned that AC Volvo buses departed only from the Sector 17 ISBT, not the Sector 43 ISBT we initially visited. After negotiating with an auto-rickshaw driver, we finally arrived at Sector 17.
Once there, we purchased tickets for an AC Volvo bus heading to Delhi from Platform 11, with buses departing roughly every hour. The ride would take about 5 hours and 30 minutes—a long journey, especially with Sweetie feeling unwell.
The Ride to Delhi
As the bus left Chandigarh, Sweetie seemed okay. But within 10 minutes, she suddenly began vomiting. We had prepared with tissues and plastic bags, but it all happened so quickly that my clothes bore the brunt. Thankfully, Sweetie’s clothes were spared, and I managed to use a mix of tissues and newspaper to clean up.
For the rest of the ride, Sweetie slept soundly, though we weren’t sure if it was due to exhaustion, nausea, or both.
Returning to Delhi
Arriving at Delhi’s Maharana Pratap ISBT, we found the prepaid auto-rickshaw service a lifesaver. Unlike regular rickshaws that quoted absurd prices, the prepaid system was fair and efficient. It safely brought us back to Paharganj.
Events
- Unexpected Terminal Confusion: Traveling between Sector 43 and Sector 17 was an unplanned detour, but part of the adventure in India.
- Sweetie’s Sickness: Managing a sick baby on a long bus ride was a challenge, but she proved to be resilient.
- Comfort in Familiar Food: At the Korean restaurant Shimteo, Sweetie regained her appetite, enjoying a hearty bowl of doenjang jjigae.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Plan for Emergencies: Always consider the availability of medical facilities when choosing travel destinations.
- Pack Essentials: Bring extra clothes, wipes, tissues, and plastic bags for unexpected sickness.
- Prepaid Services: In cities like Delhi, use prepaid rickshaw services for fair and stress-free transportation.
- Seek Comfort Foods: Familiar and gentle foods, like porridge or soups, can help a sick baby regain energy.
Local Travel Tips
- Bus Terminals: Confirm the correct departure terminal before traveling. Chandigarh has multiple ISBTs with specific routes.
- Prepaid Auto-Rickshaws: Use the Delhi police-operated prepaid system for reliable and reasonable fares.
- Korean Restaurants in Delhi: Shimteo in Paharganj offers authentic Korean food, ideal for those craving comfort meals.
Travel Reflections of Chandigarh to Delhi Volvo Bus
- The Unpredictability of Travel with a Baby
Sweetie’s health turned our plans upside down, but flexibility and quick decision-making helped us navigate the challenges. - Small Comforts in Tough Times
The warm, familiar taste of doenjang jjigae not only comforted Sweetie but also reminded us of the power of simple joys during tough moments. - Gratitude for Support Systems
From the prepaid rickshaw service to the baby care facilities on the bus, these small conveniences made a tough day a little easier.
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