India, a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, attracts travelers from across the globe. However, like any international destination, it’s essential to be informed and prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. This guide provides crucial safety and security advice for your Travel To India, drawing upon official sources to equip you with the knowledge you need for a worry-free experience.
When you travel to India, practicing good personal security and situational awareness is paramount. Always be mindful of your surroundings, respecting local customs and etiquette to blend in and minimize unwanted attention. Keeping a low profile is advisable in many situations. Stay updated on local news reports to be aware of any potential issues or events. Vary your daily routines and routes, and carefully assess the security measures in place when visiting public venues, religious sites, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment areas.
Understanding Potential Security Risks When You Travel to India
India, unfortunately, has experienced terrorist and insurgent activities that could indirectly or directly affect travelers. It’s a known fact that some U.S.-designated terrorist groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e Tayyiba, operate within India. The U.S. government constantly monitors potential terrorist threats in India, assesses their credibility, and issues advisories to U.S. citizens when necessary. It is recommended to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive automatic updates and alerts from the U.S. Embassy.
Historically, attacks have targeted public areas, some of which are frequented by tourists, including luxury hotels, transportation hubs like trains and stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants, particularly in large cities. These attacks often occur during peak evening hours in crowded markets but can happen at any time. Be especially vigilant during major holidays, as alerts tend to increase during these periods.
Maoists, also known as Naxalites, represent the most active insurgent group in India. While their primary targets are Indian government officials, they have been known to derail trains and attack government infrastructure, sometimes engaging in other criminal activities.
Demonstrations and general strikes, known as “bandhs,” can cause significant disruptions and inconvenience. These strikes can halt transportation and tourist services for extended periods, sometimes lasting 24 hours or more. Travelers caught in a strike may face difficulties with flights and train connections due to limited local transport. Local media usually provides information about the duration and location of strikes. It’s crucial to adhere to any curfews or travel restrictions imposed and avoid demonstrations and rallies, as they carry a risk of violence, especially around political events, elections, and religious festivals, particularly when Hindu and Muslim festivals coincide. Tensions between different social and religious groups can also lead to unrest and violence.
Navigating Social and Religious Sensitivities During Your Trip to India
Be aware that “anti-conversion” laws are in effect in certain Indian states. Acts of religious conversion can sometimes provoke violent reactions from Hindu extremist groups. In the past, foreigners suspected of proselytizing Hindus have been attacked, even fatally, in conservative rural regions of India. Occasionally, protestors may block roads near popular tourist attractions and disrupt train services to draw the attention of authorities. In some instances, vehicles carrying tourists have been targeted in these incidents. Staying informed by monitoring local television, print, and social media, as well as the U.S. Mission India’s American Citizens Services Facebook page, is highly recommended.
Safety Tips for Specific Activities When You Travel to India
Swimming Safety in India
If you plan to swim in the open waters along India’s coastline, especially during the monsoon season, exercise extreme caution. Strong undertows cause numerous drownings each year in popular beach destinations like Goa, Mumbai, and Puri (Odisha). Always heed beach warnings and avoid swimming in the ocean during the monsoon. There have also been reports of fatal crocodile attacks in the Andaman Islands. Lifeguards are not commonly found on Indian beaches.
Wildlife Safaris in India
India offers incredible wildlife safari experiences. Many tour operators and lodges advertise structured and seemingly safe excursions into parks and wildlife areas. However, safety standards and operator training can vary significantly. It’s wise to verify if operators are properly trained and licensed. Remember that even animals marketed as “tame” are still wild and potentially dangerous. Always maintain a safe distance from animals, remaining inside vehicles or protected enclosures when on safaris.
Trekking in India
For trekking enthusiasts traveling to India, it’s crucial to stick to officially recognized trekking routes designated by local authorities. Use only registered trekking agencies, porters, and guides. Avoid trekking after dark, camp only in designated areas, and trek in groups rather than alone. Be aware that altitudes in popular trekking areas can exceed 25,000 feet (7,620 m). Ensure you are physically fit for high-altitude trekking and have sufficient medical insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
Train Travel in India
India boasts the third-largest rail network globally, and train travel is generally safe. However, accidents and on-board fires do occur due to aging infrastructure, inadequate maintenance, overcrowding, and human error. These incidents have resulted in fatalities and serious injuries.
Areas of Instability to Be Aware of When You Travel to India
Jammu & Kashmir
Travel to the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir is not recommended due to the ongoing potential for terrorist incidents and violent public unrest. Numerous terrorist groups operate in this region, targeting security forces, particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating Indian and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, and in popular tourist destinations like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Foreigners can be particularly vulnerable and at risk in this area. Past communal violence has led to massive strikes and shutdowns, requiring evacuations of U.S. citizens in the past. The Indian government restricts foreign tourist access to certain areas along the LOC and may require travel permits to enter the region.
India-Pakistan Border Region
Avoid travel within ten kilometers of the India-Pakistan border. Both countries maintain a heavy military presence in this area. The only official border crossing for non-Indian or Pakistani citizens is in Punjab, between Atari (India) and Wagah (Pakistan). While usually open, confirm the crossing’s status before traveling. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan and must generally be obtained in your country of residence before traveling to India, unless you are a U.S. citizen residing in India.
The Siachen glacier, part of the Karakoram Mountain range claimed by both India and Pakistan, is extremely dangerous for travel and climbing. This disputed area includes peaks like Rimo Peak and Sia Kangri. Consult the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi for current conditions if you are considering travel to this region.
Northeastern States of India
Sporadic violence from ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occurs in the northeastern states. While U.S. citizens haven’t been specifically targeted, bystanders could be affected. If traveling to the northeast, avoid train travel at night, travel outside major cities at night, and crowded places. U.S. government employees require permission to travel to certain areas in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur. Restricted Area Permits are needed for foreigners visiting certain Northeastern states. Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata for current information.
East Central and Southern India
Maoist extremist groups, Naxalites, are active in East Central India, primarily in rural areas. They have a history of conflict with authorities, conducting frequent attacks on police, paramilitary forces, and government officials. While not specifically targeting U.S. citizens, symbolic targets, including Western companies and rail lines, have been attacked. Although violence is uncommon in tourist areas, there’s still a potential risk. Naxalite activity spans a large region from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana to western West Bengal, especially in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, and border areas of several states. U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity need authorization from the relevant U.S. Consulate, unless only visiting capital cities.
Restricted and Protected Areas in India
Traveling to India might involve areas requiring Restricted Area Permits. These include:
- Arunachal Pradesh (state)
- Parts of Sikkim (state)
- Parts of Himachal Pradesh near the Chinese border (state)
- Parts of Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) near the Chinese border (state)
- Parts of Rajasthan near the Pakistani border (state)
- Parts of Jammu & Kashmir near the Line of Control and parts of Ladakh (union territories)
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands (union territory)
- Laccadives Islands (Lakshadweep) (union territory)
- Parts of Manipur (state)
- Parts of Mizoram (state)
- Parts of Nagaland (state)
Detailed information on restricted/protected areas is available from India’s Bureau of Immigration. Permits can be obtained at Indian embassies/consulates abroad or from the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi. Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim maintain guesthouses in New Delhi that can issue permits for their states. Be aware that the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Center in Kalpakkam, near Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) in Tamil Nadu, is a restricted area, though not clearly marked.
For the latest security updates, enroll in STEP and monitor travel information from the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi and Consulates General in Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
Crime and Scams: Staying Safe When You Travel to India
While violent crime against foreigners is not typical, petty crime, especially theft of personal property like passports, is common, particularly on public transport, at airports, and in tourist hotspots. Pickpockets are skilled, and bag snatching, purse cutting, and bag slitting are reported. When traveling by train, lock sleeping compartments and keep valuables with you when leaving your berth. Be vigilant with bags in airport arrival and departure areas. Avoid displaying cash or expensive items and be cautious at ATMs due to card skimming scams.
Reports of sexual assault, including rape, against travelers in India exist. Solo travel, especially for women, is discouraged. Take stringent security precautions. Utilize women-only public transport in cities like Delhi and Hyderabad. Limit evening outings to well-known, safe venues and avoid isolated areas at all times. Keep your hotel room number private and ensure doors have chains, deadlocks, and peepholes. Travel in groups and use reliable car services, avoiding solo taxi rides, especially at night. Use hotel taxis or pre-paid airport taxis instead of street-hailed ones. In threatening situations, call “100” for police assistance (“112” from mobile phones). If using ride-sharing apps, share your ride details with someone.
Respect local dress and customs. Conservative dress is the norm for Indian women, covering legs and shoulders, especially in rural areas. While exceptions exist in tourist resorts and some city areas, Western women, particularly those of African descent, have reported verbal and physical harassment by men, known as “Eve-teasing,” ranging from suggestive comments to groping, often in crowded public spaces.
The Indian government is addressing gender-based violence, leading to increased reporting of sexual assault, with rape being reported as a fast-growing crime.
In life-threatening situations, contact the police immediately and then the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They can connect you with NGOs for assistance.
Review travel tips for Women Travelers on the U.S. Department of State website for more detailed advice. Victims of crime overseas may be eligible for compensation for counseling and relocation.
Scams are prevalent at airports, train stations, restaurants, and tourist sites. Scam artists create distractions to prey on visitors. Be wary of taxi drivers and porters offering overly cheap services, which often lead to scams like overpriced hotels, unwanted tours, and extortion. Some vendors may sell overpriced, low-quality carpets, jewelry, and gemstones. Deal only with reputable businesses and avoid handing over payment until you are certain of the goods’ quality and shipment. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Tourism bureaus can handle complaints in most Indian states. Never agree to transport goods for strangers in exchange for money.
Internet scams from India target victims abroad. A common scam involves online romantic relationships with fake U.S. citizens who, upon supposedly traveling to India, encounter fabricated emergencies and request financial aid. Do not send money to anyone you haven’t met in person and consult the Department of State’s advice on international financial scams.
Another scam involves family members in the U.S., especially elderly people, being contacted by scammers claiming to be relatives in trouble and needing money. Verify any such requests with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General before sending money. You can also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 888-407-4747 (or 202-501-4444 from overseas).
Be cautious in business dealings in India, particularly property investments. Seek legal advice before signing contracts. The U.S. Embassy and consulates cannot provide legal advice or help with Indian court matters but can provide lists of local attorneys.
Avoid buying counterfeit and pirated goods, which are illegal in the U.S. and may violate local laws in India.
If You Become a Victim of Crime When You Travel to India
U.S. citizens who are victims of sexual assault should first contact the local police and then inform the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Report crimes to the local police by calling “100” or “112” from a mobile phone. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
The U.S. Embassy or Consulates can:
- Help you find medical care.
- Assist in reporting crimes to the police.
- Contact relatives or friends with your consent.
- Explain the local criminal justice process.
- Provide lists of local attorneys.
- Provide information on victims’ compensation programs in the U.S.
- Offer emergency loans for repatriation or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
- Help with accommodation and flights home.
- Replace stolen or lost passports.
Always request a copy of the police report, known as a “First Information Report” (FIR), when reporting an incident, as local authorities usually require it to act.
If your passport is stolen, report it to the local police immediately and obtain an FIR. This is needed to get an exit visa if your lost passport contained your Indian visa. While the Embassy or Consulate can replace a passport, exit permits are approved by Indian authorities, which can take several working days.
In sexual assault or rape cases, the Embassy/Consulates can provide lists of doctors and hospitals for treatment and prevention options. Note that for evidence to be admissible in court, medical exams must be performed at a government hospital.
India has resources for victims of rape and sexual assault, including toll-free helplines in major cities like Delhi (1091), Mumbai (103), Kolkata (1090), Chennai (1091 or 2345-2365), and Hyderabad (1098). The local equivalent to “911” is “100,” and “112” can be used from mobile phones.
Refer to the U.S. Department of State’s information for victims of crime, including victim compensation programs in the U.S.
U.S. citizens experiencing domestic violence can contact the Embassy or Consulates for help.
Tourism Infrastructure and Safety in India
The tourism industry in India has uneven regulation, and safety inspections are not always standard. Hazardous areas or activities may lack proper signage, and staff may not be adequately trained or certified. Medical treatment may be limited to major cities, and first responders might have difficulty accessing areas outside of urban centers. Purchasing medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended. Consult the U.S. Department of State’s webpage for information on insurance providers for overseas coverage to ensure you are protected when you travel to India.
By staying informed, practicing vigilance, and taking necessary precautions, you can confidently travel to India and experience the wonders it has to offer while prioritizing your safety and security.
