Traveling to India in 2026 presents risks including terrorism, sexual assault, petty crime, and severe pollution, particularly in Northern India between October and February. Other hazards include mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika, waterborne illnesses, and natural disasters such as landslides, especially during monsoon seasons.
Yes, it is safe to travel to India now. Since the ceasefire on 10 May 2025, there have been no reports of violence or problems along India's borders. Everything is calm, and life across the country is going on as usual.
As you might expect, there's a variety of opinions on how safe India is for travelers. The 2025 Global Peace Index ranks the country 115th out of 163 countries, noting India's high level of militarization, nuclear capabilities and internal squabbles.
You can wear jeans and tshirt, or loose breathable clothes. Avoid wearing spaghetti strap tops, shorts, or mini-skirts. Try to keep covered your cleavage, thighs, and often shoulders. Yes, women can and do wear shorts in India, but it is mostly common in urban, metropolitan regions and tourist spots.
Yes, vaccinations are highly recommended for India, especially for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine shots like Tetanus and MMR, due to risks from food/waterborne diseases and mosquitoes; some, like Yellow Fever, are required if coming from an infected country, while others, like Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis, depend on your itinerary (long stays, rural areas). Always see a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.
It's not safe to travel to certain high-risk areas like Haiti, Russia, Belarus, and Afghanistan (avoid all travel), while many other countries like Mexico, Turkey, Thailand, and parts of Israel and Palestine have specific regions with "do not travel" advisories due to ongoing conflict, terrorism, or instability. Always check your government's travel advisories (like the U.S. State Dept or UK FCDO) for the latest updates, as risks can change rapidly.
Backpackers in India spend as little as $25–35 per day, staying in hostels and using public transport. Mid-range travelers in India spend $60–100 per day, balancing comfort and affordability with 3-star hotels and occasional private drivers.
What is the best currency to take to India from the UK?
Major currencies such as USD, GBP, and EUR can be easily exchanged for rupees in India. Generally speaking, the exchange rate of USD to INR is more favorable than that of other foreign currencies in India.
While foreign tourists are strongly advised not to drink tap water, even the locals in India do not drink it directly. Tap water in India is quite polluted and contains many bacteria and contaminants that can cause health issues for foreigners as well locals, such as diarrhea, vomiting, cholera, or typhoid.
As of early 2026, U.S. Department of State Level 4 Travel Advisory countries (meaning "Do Not Travel") include nations like Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, Russia, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, North Korea, Central African Republic, Burma (Myanmar), and Lebanon, due to extreme risks like conflict, terrorism, crime, or political instability, with the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) offering the official, most current list.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in India. There is a heightened risk of terrorism in some Indian regions. Read our advice on regional risks in India for more information.
As per NCRB, India's cultural capital, Kolkata, recorded the lowest IPC crime rate, 78.2 percent, and ranked first as the safest city in India. Its proactive police force and Safe City Project for women and children under the Nirbhaya Fund ensure the safety of the citizens.
* Loose, flowing cotton clothes are ideal. * Kurtahs (tunics), salwar kameez, and long dresses are perfect. * Avoid skimpy or tight western clothes outside touristy areas.
As part of the NHS Employers Code of Practice for International Recruitment, the red list (also called the WHO Workforce Support and Safeguard List) is a list of countries that cannot be actively recruited by UK health and social care organisations including recruitment agencies.
The most common health problems in India include non-communicable diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders, alongside communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and dengue fever. Malnutrition and mental health issues are also prevalent.
The "333 rule" in clothing refers to two popular minimalist fashion concepts: the viral TikTok trend of using 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes to create numerous outfits (9 items total) for styling practice, and the more extensive Project 333, where you select 33 items (including clothes, shoes, and accessories) to wear for three months, excluding essentials like underwear, workout gear, and sleepwear, to simplify your wardrobe and reduce decision fatigue. Both methods focus on versatility, quality over quantity, and creating a functional capsule wardrobe.
Yes, a white woman can wear a sari, and it's generally seen as acceptable and even appreciated, especially when done with respect for the culture, such as at South Asian events (weddings, festivals) or out of genuine interest, rather than for a costume, but it's best to learn about its significance to avoid cultural appropriation concerns. The key is intent and context, with many Indians welcoming non-natives wearing saris as a sign of appreciation for their culture and craftsmanship, viewing it as cultural exchange or style rather than disrespect.
Do not step over a person sitting or lying on the floor, as it is offensive. Never touch anything with your feet, and don't point the bottom of your feet at religious altars or toward people. To avoid this, sit cross-legged or kneel on the floor while in a temple or holy place.
