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Things you should know before you solo travel in India

Updated On 9th March, 2024

For many, the prospect of travelling around India alone is daunting. Solo travel in India can seem even more so because there’s no one to share the responsibility with. 

A lot of bad news comes out of India as a country and it would be silly to say there’s nothing to worry about. It’s completely normal to feel a little apprehensive when planning a trip to India. It’s important to remember though that India is also an incredible country with so much to offer…

Don’t let the fear stop you, let it motivate you to do your research, plan well and make informed decisions.

From the Himalayas to untouched beaches, ancient architecture to places of worship for countless religions, dense jungle to desert landscapes; India has it all. It’s also home to some of the most friendly and welcoming people I have ever met. 

If you are careful, you  can  stay safe when  travelling in India . My name is  Seren  and in this blog post, I am going to share my top tips having done solo travel in India myself. Here is everything you need to know about travelling solo in India.

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A complete guide to solo travel in India

1. do your research.

Before you start booking anything, research the culture and read the news from India. Get educated on what and where exactly the risks are, how you should behave to be respectful, and what the tensions are in the country. 

Okay, it’s a lot to look into, but I promise it will be worth it to properly understand the country. It will help you know how to act and delve deeper into your journey.

Here are my  top tips for planning and researching your next adventure.

Explore Mumbai, India’s largest city, and see what your adventure could look like  here.

2. Ease yourself in

The first step upon reaching India will be the taxi journey from the airport to your first accommodation. Get in touch with your accommodation and ask for them to arrange a taxi. That way you can be sure the driver will be trustworthy. There are plenty of taxi scams, especially in Delhi.   

Also, consider joining a group for the first week or so. I started my time in India on a yoga teaching course with a group of people. I think this was the perfect way to ease me into being in the country as I was always with others as I got settled.  

Whether you arrange to start off in a group or not, it’s a good idea to start your travels in one of the easier locations. Try Rishikesh, the home of yoga, or one of the beaches of Goa. These places are much more used to tourists and have a lot of western influence.

For advice on travelling on a budget, check out  these top tips! 

See my 1-week itinerary for Kerala, India  here.

3. You won’t ever actually be alone

Stay in hostels wherever you go and you will constantly be meeting new people. Hostels are full of like-minded travellers to share experiences or explore with. Some even have communal meals and go out of their way to set up group trips. Most people are on the same route, so chances are you will be able to travel on with someone. See my beginner’s guide to hostels  here.

Also, India has a population of over 1 billion. You will constantly be surrounded by people and locals are more often than not very friendly and welcoming. Expect to have strangers start conversations with you all the time. You may even be invited to someone’s home. And, yes, accept those invitations, just make sure to evaluate the situation first.

If you’re nervous about going travelling, here’s  how I overcome my pre-travel nerves.

Homesickness doesn’t have to ruin your trip!  Here are my top tips for overcoming homesickness when you’re travelling.

EXPLORE INDIA ON MY BLOG HERE

4. You will get stared at and asked for photos

One of the toughest aspects of travelling India is the lack of privacy. The friendliness of the locals and crowds of people can get annoying if you want some time to yourself. 

It is guaranteed that you will be stared at unashamedly by people of all ages and genders. There is nothing you can do to stop this, and it will happen whether you are alone or in a group. It can feel extremely uncomfortable but understand that for some, you will be the first foreigner they have ever seen. I found it was best to just ignore them. 

Another common occurrence will be photos. You will be approached constantly for a selfie. Often, you will say yes and the next thing you know a massive group will each want an individual photo. As a woman, I worried what some of the men were doing with the photos, so early on I decided to say no to most photos, unless taken by a woman or a family. Plus, I started requiring group photos rather than individual ones. 

Girls, if you are on a beach in a bikini, it’s a different matter. The most popular beaches for tourists (Goa, Gokarna, and Varkala) are fine for wearing western swimwear. However, you should cover up on the popular beaches during the weekends or public holidays and on the more isolated beaches as Indian tourists who are not used to seeing barely clothed people are more likely to visit them at this time. If you don’t, expect photos without your consent and lots of staring.

For advice on travelling solo as a female, check out  these top tips! 

There are a few realities of travelling India that you should be aware of,  see them here.

5. Do stick to the tourist route.

This ensures you will meet other travellers and makes it more likely that locals will be used to travellers in the area.

Top tip: Get  £25 off your first AirBnb stay here.

6. Do have photocopies of your passport, visa, bank cards, and other important documents in various places.

Keep any valuables in a hard to access compartment of your bag.

7. Do keep your phone charged and on you at all times.

8. do use uber as it tracks your route and holds the driver accountable..

Normal tuk-tuks are also usually totally fine, but you might want to keep google maps open during the journey to check you are headed the right way.

For all my top tips on making friends while you’re solo travelling, check out  this post.

9. Do keep your family back home informed of your route.

10. don’t wear expensive clothing or accessories. dress respectfully and cover-up., 11. don’t walk around alone at night or in places that seem suspicious..

Here are my  top tips for staying safe during solo travel.

The bottom line is to be careful, but open, when travelling solo in India. Travelling solo can open up so many opportunities if you keep your wits about you. You meet more people, have a liberating amount of independence, and can be spontaneous more easily. Be savvy, and chances are you will be fine. But it’s important to be prepared and to feel confident going into your big adventure in India!

Have you solo travelled through India?

What advice would you give for someone travelling India? We’d love to know!

Love Seren  from  Seren Wanders

You can see more of Seren’s adventures on her Instagram  here.

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Solo travel in India – All you need to know

From the majestic Taj Mahal to the spiritual Rishikesh, from holy cows to psytrance raves in Goa – India is the most diverse country I’ve ever visited. The north is completely different to the south and so are the people’s cultures and traditions. Solo travel in India can be challenging – especially female solo travel in India . I did it, for 2.5 months and I had the most impactful trip of my life. India is beautiful, colorful, and eventful. 

I’m sharing the seven most important safety tips for solo travel in India – which I wish I had known before – places to visit and places to avoid as a solo traveller in India.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of my links I will receive a small commission which helps me to maintain my site. This has no  extra cost for you and you will make my day!

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Safety tips for solo travel in India

When you google “safety in Delhi, India”, the content that shows up makes you think twice about going there. High crime rates, sexual assault, and extreme pollution – doesn’t sound like a place you’d want to visit, right?

Let me tell you one thing in advance: It’s not as bad as some people make it seem! Of course, there are some things to consider when traveling solo to India, but honestly, I felt very safe in most areas of India. The north of India, especially Delhi, was much more challenging for me than the south. People of the north are more conservative and culturally less open than people of the south.

Here are some tips on how to stay safe when traveling solo in India (especially in Delhi and the north).

Make Indian friends

It sounds trivial, but believe me when I say that making Indian friends was my life-saver on my solo trip in India. They told me how to behave, where to go, which areas to avoid, where to stay and how to avoid scams as a blond, European solo traveler.

And how the heck would you make Indian friends?

In India, the best way to make friends is by staying in hostels. It’s funny because in most countries, you’d only find foreign people in hostels. But India is different. Indian people love to travel within their own country. Most of the people in hostels are Indians from different parts of India. This helped me a lot in finding local friends and learning about India from them. Also, roaming around with Indians saves you from being approached from people in the streets.

Don't smile at men in the streets

I took me one week to realise that having a friendly facial expression and making eye contact with men is seen as flirting. Not only that, but they also see it as an invitation to start a conversation. 

Basically, if you smile at a man, he will think that you want him to talk to you. Knowing this earlier would have saved me a few uncomfortable situations. I’m a friendly person,  I smile at people when we cross paths or when our eyes meet in public, no matter which gender.

Once my Indian friend told me about the meaning in their culture, I started walking around with a resting bitch face and I avoided looking into people’s eyes – it made a big difference!

Before, I had always wondered why Indian women were so serious in the streets or on public transport. Whenever I smiled at a woman, they never smiled back – now I know why.

Important note: This goes only for men that are strangers. Men in the street or on public transport, for example. If it’s a friend or someone at your hostel, feel free to smile and laugh and be friendly!

Be harsh to men that bother you

I learned that Indian men can be very insisting. If you say “no” with a smile on your face, they will keep trying. They don’t take a “no” as a “no” as long as you say it in a friendly way.

Be rude. Be serious. Tell them to f*** off if someone is too insistent.

Cover your shoulders and knees

The less skin you show, the less attention you get. Covering your shoulders and knees and wearing lose clothes helps to avoid unwanted attention.

I remember a day in Delhi with 32°C degrees and I was sweating in my jumper. Feeling like I was in a safe place, I took of my jumper, leaving me with a slightly revealing tank top. The moment I took off my jumper, all eyes were on me. I felt like an alien (even more than before). One thing to know about India is that people love to stare. If you look different to them, they will not take their eyes off you, no shame. All the staring made me feel super unconfortable. Showing skin skyrockets the stares, so it’s up to you how much staring you can take.

Avoid going out alone at night

During my first few days in India, I always made sure to be back at my hostel before it got dark. Better be safe than sorry.  Later on, once I had made some Indian friends and got a better feeling for the area, I did go out late, too.

In the end it’s always about your gut feeling. If you do go out at night, always move with Uber and don’t walk alone in the streets. Ideally share your location with a friend and follow the map to see if your driver is going the right way. Be sure to ask a local where to go and how to stay safe.

Start with South India

If you have enough time to visit the north and the south of India, I suggest visiting the south first.  South India is easy to travel. People are more open-minded, they are used to tourists and it generally feels more comfortable to be a foreigner in the south. South India will help you to get adjusted to the culture and prepare you for the more traditional North India.  The north might give you a bigger culture shock.

Get a local SIM card

Getting a local SIM card with data makes your life in India much easier. Being able to call an Uber from every place and being able to check on Google Maps where you’re going is priceless.

Get a prepaid SIM card at the airport when you arrive to India. I recommend using Airtel. They have a good network and they offer ideal packages for tourists.

Best places for solo travel in India

The best places for solo travel in India are usually areas that attract a high number of foreign tourists. If there are lots of other foreigners, you stand out less and people don’t bother you as much as in other places.

My personal top three places for solo travel in India are Taj Mahal in Agra, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand and Palolem in South Goa.

Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal, one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World, is a must when visiting India. This beautiful architectural masterpiece is located in Agra, only a few hours from Delhi.

Even though the area around Taj Mahal seems more like a slum where people live in poor conditions, I felt safe in Agra. Lots of tourists travel to Agra to visit Taj Mahal, so it’s an ideal place for solo travel in India.

The best way to visit Taj Mahal is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Check out my full guide on watching the sunrise at Taj Mahal .

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is known as the world’s yoga capital and it attracts lots of yogi’s and practitioners from all around the globe. The local people of Rishikesh are used to tourists and all the infrastructure makes it a comfortable place for solo travel in India.

I felt very safe in Rishikesh, and unlike in some other places, people stared less. If you consider visiting Rishikesh, read through my post of the best things to do in Rishikesh .

Palolem, South Goa

Palolem is one of my favorite places in India. If you seek peace, tranquility and beach life, Palolem is the perfect place for you.

When I arrived to Goa after traveling through the northern part of India, I felt like weight was taken off my shoulders. Goa is different to the rest of India. It’s much more liberal, culturally open and westernized.

I felt so free, I didn’t have to worry about what to wear and how to behave. I could finally smile at people again without making them think I’m flirting.

Palolem is a great place for solo travelers, as there’s a good backpacker community and several great hostels.

Places to avoid for solo travel in India

Mahipalpur, delhi.

There is only one single area where I felt absolutely unsafe and that was “Mahipalpur” near the airport in Delhi. If it hadn’t been 3 am when I arrived there, I would have left immediately. I stayed im Mahipalpur because my plane landed late at night and there were some affordable hotels with good reviews ( definitely fake reviews ).

The area was shady and the people were even shadier. After I checked into my disgusting room, which was totally different from the pictures, I got a call from the man at the front desk asking if I wanted a full body massage – at 3 AM ( eww! ). I triple-locked my door and tried to sleep.

Long story short: Don’t stay in Mahipalpur!

Other than that, of the places that I visited, there’s not a single one I would avoid as a solo traveler in India. There will definitely be uncomfortable moments and challenging situations, but they are not necessarily connected to a specific place or area.

Old Delhi, Delhi (on day one)

On my first day in India, I visited Old Delhi by myself. Later on, my local friends told me I was crazy for doing that. Old Delhi is pure chaos. It’s crowded, it’s smelly, it’s dirty, it’s easy to get lost in the narrow pathways. It’s the most challenging place I visited iduring my 2.5 months in India, and I did it on day one.

I don’t even remember how many people asked me for a selfie. At some point they started standing in line for a selfie with me. Some people were even ready to pay me money for a selfie with me. I have never experienced anything like that to this extent. Apparently, some of them have never seen a white person before .

Funnily, this happened only to me. I have an Austrian male friend who visited Old Delhi by himself and he never got asked for a selfie. Maybe it’s because I’m blond and a girl?

And I don’t even want to get started with how many local people tried so sell me a tuk tuk tour or other things. 

“Miss, where are you going?”

“Miss, can I help you?”

“Miss, what are you looking for?”

“Miss, tuk tuk?”

“Excuse me miss, one selfie please?”

If you’re brave (or simply crazy like me) and up for a challenge, make your way through Old Delhi by yourself.

Otherwise, I would recommend to either save Old Delhi for later, when you’re already more familiar with Indian culture, or to visit Old Delhi with a second person (ideally a local person who can show you around). Being with someone who knows the place makes Old Delhi way less challenging and you become less of a target for local people.

Get your Guide  offers lots of different guided tours through Old Delhi:

Is solo travel in India safe?

Most of the time, I felt completely safe traveling solo through India . I’m sorry if I have made it sound as if Indians were horrible people – they are definitely not! The safety tips are necessary to help you get used to the culture and to manage challenging situations. Not all Indian men will try to scam you or flirt with you.

Generally,  Indians are some of the most authentic, kind, generous, respectful, humble and open-hearted people I met on all my travels .

People in the streets do stare and they do bother you as a foreigner, but in the end, they just see an opportunity to earn money for their families, to make a living. As much as it annoyed me when people tried to sell me something, I do understand their need. Many of them live with the bare minimum.

In India, there’s a big societal gap in terms of education, lifestyle and financial resources between the people you meet privately, in a hostel for example, and the people you meet in the streets in public.

People who can afford to travel and live a more developed life usually have a more westernized mindset. Whereas the part of the population that is less educated and living a more traditional life might not know how to behave toward a foreign woman. 

I have met the most amazing people during my time in India and I’m endlessly grateful for all the Indian friend’s I’ve made. Solo travel in India is an incredible adventure that gives you the chance to connect with the most beautiful souls if you allow it.

Have you ever done a solo trip to India? What do you think about my safety tips for solo travel in India? Do you have any other tips or recommendations for solo travelers in India?

I would love to hear your opinion in the comments!

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a world of destinations

April 2, 2023

Asia , Destinations , India

Asia , female solo travel , India , solo travel

April 9, 2023 at 1:53 am

I have always wanted to visit India, but I was worried about doing it solo. I also loved your tip about making Indian friends. Having local friends can definitely help so much. I found that to be true in Morocco.

April 9, 2023 at 12:06 pm

Having local friends is the best for solo trips – especially for such culturally different countries 🙂 I can imagine that it was helpful in Morocco too!

April 9, 2023 at 5:15 am

Wow. Every female traveller, whether solo or not, should read your blog before heading to India. It’s full of great tips and information on India that everyone should be aware of. Thanks for sharing.

April 9, 2023 at 12:07 pm

Thanks for your comment, I hope I can help some solo travelers with these tips.

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Hi!   I’m Maria, an outdoor-active traveler who seeks to go off the beaten track to discover hidden gems.   Most of the time you’ll find me exploring small beach towns or untouched places in the mountains to connect with nature. My goal is to inspire others to go out of their comfort zone and explore this beautiful planet.   During the creation of this blog, uncountable cups of coffee were consumed. If my blog is an inspiration for you in any way, I would appreciate your support by buying me a cup of coffee.   Happy traveling!

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Traveling Solo in India? Read These Tips

By Sarah Khan

It’s just past sunset, and a wave of blinding yellow headlights flows past as I stand on a crowded corner in Mumbai , struggling to hail a rickshaw during rush hour. Most whiz by, occupied and oblivious to my plight; some pause and then zoom off when I tell them where I need to go. After 15 futile minutes, a man approaches me, face obscured by a helmet and the name of a food-delivery app, Swiggy, emblazoned on his shirt. Unasked, he waits with me and chases down rickshaw after rickshaw; when he finds one willing to take me, he makes sure I get in, nods, and rides off into the traffic on his scooter, at one with the blur of flashing lights.

This fleeting encounter from last week encapsulates so much of how I feel when I travel solo in India: being constantly catapulted from feeling vexed to blessed and back again.

I’ve roamed historic Fort Kochi, hiked in the ethereal terrain of Hampi , holed up amid the Portuguese casas in Goa , and found myself at a house party in the Andaman Islands, all while traveling on my own. And whenever I post pictures from those trips on social media, I’m inundated with messages from women, all asking the same thing: Do you really feel safe traveling by yourself in India?

It’s a valid concern. Last summer, a Thomson Reuters Foundation survey gave India the far-from-commendable title of world’s most dangerous country for women —the country is racked by high numbers of rape and sexual violence, and horrifying stories involving local women and tourists alike regularly make headlines.

It took me awhile to feel comfortable traveling within India on my own, and not only because of the shocking news reports. I come to India every year and while I feel completely at ease, it’s also a place where I’ve been coddled by family, and never really felt independent—my grandmother insisted I travel with a driver or be accompanied by the cook, even if I just wanted to go to the grocery store two doors down to buy a bag of chips. The result: I found myself feeling more comfortable navigating Europe, Africa, or South America on my own than I did a country that I knew so well.

In recent years I’ve made a concerted effort to explore different corners of India—and if no one was able to join me, I forged out on my own. I’ve come a long way since I last wrote about this topic six years ago. Exploring the different faces of this massive country, at once so vast and yet so intimately familiar, has resulted in some of the most exhilarating travel experiences of my life...but it hasn't been without challenges. Here are some precautions I take to help me feel comfortable:

I never fully wing it in India: I book flights that arrive during the day, and have a hotel and some activities arranged in advance. I usually use Uber to get around, but in times where I might be traveling long distances or late at night (people regularly advise me not to take Ubers after dark in Delhi, for instance), I’ll consider booking a hotel car or hiring a driver for the day through a travel agent. If you’re coming from the U.S., booking nice hotels and hiring a car and driver or a private guide can be much more affordable than in other parts of the world—often around $30 for a full day. Guided tours are always a great way to both get your bearings and get some company—including fellow travelers you can make plans with after the tour. I also dress appropriately for each place: anything goes in a city like Mumbai, but you’ll want to keep your legs and shoulders covered in more conservative areas.

Whenever I canvas social media for tips, it inevitably leads to introductions to friends-of-friends. I’ve hung out with people in Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, and Jaipur through social media introductions, and was even invited to a friend’s friend’s sister’s home for biryani in the suburbs of Kochi. (This was also how I wound up getting invited to that party in the Andamans, in one of the coolest houses I’ve ever been to.) But use social media wisely—I always later-gram my posts, even my Instagram Stories, after I’ve left a place.

Use a local SIM card

SIM cards are incredibly cheap in India—I paid $7 to get unlimited calling, texting, and 1.5GB of data per day for three months—and having a local number makes it easier to connect with drivers. Plus, while airports and restaurants often have free Wi-Fi, which is key for staying in touch and plotting your next steps, you often need a local number to log in. Look for stands from providers like Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio at the airport.

Keep your guard up

This goes without saying and applies anywhere. Every person and every place is different, so you should stick to your comfort zone and extricate yourself from any situation that doesn’t feel right for you. I’ll be honest: A lot of my comfort level in traveling solo in India comes from the fact that I look Indian, dress Indian, and speak Hindi, so I don’t stand out as much as other travelers might. Mariellen Ward, a Canadian travel writer who blogs at Breathedreamgo , currently lives in Rishikesh and often shares her tips for traveling solo in India , gleaned from more than a decade of travel across the region. “Foreign women, perhaps especially blonde women like me, are a major attraction in India and you sometimes draw a lot of attention. It can be unnerving,” she says. “Most of the time, it's just innocent curiosity.” She encourages women to back out of any situation that doesn’t feel right, even if you have to be abrupt, and I agree: My intuition is my most important defense—even if a situation most likely seems fine, if I don’t feel good about it, I turn around and leave.

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Is India Safe to Travel? Women & Kids (Tips for 2024/2025)

As most say, traveling to India can be an adventure . You might have heard of bad hygiene, floating dead bodies in Varanasi, or sexual harassment in India. So, is India safe to travel?

As a traveler, yes , with the right behavior , India is safe to travel in most tourist cities . In this article, you can find some tips to make your trip safer and more worry-free.

• Is India Safe Now?
• Is India Safe for Solo and Women Travelers?
• Is India Safe for Families and Kids?

The Safety of Popular Cities in India

Is india safe to travel right now.

Yes, you can travel safely to major tourist cities, such as New Delhi , Agra , and Goa . But northern borders or conflict areas like Kashmir and Jammu are currently not recommended due to occasional terrorist attacks.

Muggings and kidnappings rarely happen in tourist areas, so if you just visit the attractions, you should be perfectly safe. By strictly following general safety rules , you can avoid pickpockets and tourist scammers .

Is India Safe to Travel for Solo and Women Travelers?

Like any other country on the planet, India shares certain problems for solo and women travelers. But some precautions are helpful to minimize the potential danger.

Plan Your Tour Well Before You Go

Uncertainty will increase the risks of being targeted during your travel. Preparing well also makes your tour less stressful : design your routes well, search for reputable hotels, and find high-quality restaurants. More tips about How to Plan a Trip to India >>>

Travel with a Local Guide

Booking a guide is another way to stay safe. Local guides know very well how the local society operates, and can therefore be a great help in avoiding potential troubles . An experienced guide can also offer deep insights into local culture, use the tricks of the trade to avoid crowds , and save you the hassle of asking directions and struggling with communication.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Avoid the Late Hours

Indian cities now have some great nightlife. From concept restaurants and themed bars to a line-up of acclaimed arts performances, evening options are in abundance. However, a solo night out in India is with risks .

Besides, try to avoid late-night flights or trains . If your schedule is not flexible, you'd be best to pre-book a private transfer from your hotel or contact us for worry-free transport.

Don't Go Too Far off the Beaten Path

Having exploratory adventures might also put you in danger. In remote areas, you would hardly find any help due to the language barrier. A phone signal might be not available either. If possible, travel with trusted (local) friends or contact us for a customized tour if you would like to explore areas away from the beaten path.

Use Flights and Private Transfers as Much as Possible

When travelling around India, booking a flight is the safest and most comfortable way to travel between cities.

When you choose other public transportation, you'd better stay alert and protect your valuables. Local buses are not suggested , even if you are a seasoned traveler. It would be hard for you to keep track of where you are, as there are no English signs or arrival announcements. check more transportation info in India>>>

Keep Yourself Covered Up

In India, women are conservative, and they are expected to stay covered up. Wearing tight-fitting clothing or shorts could be regarded as sexual seduction . To prevent potential problems, you're suggested to wear ankle-length skirts and tops covering the shoulders. Wearing Indian clothing allows you to blend in better and stay covered as well.

Keep Your Distance from Men

Locals are friendly and hospitable. As foreigners, you will receive plenty of attention because of their curiosity .

To avoid misunderstandings or unwanted attention, you should not be too friendly with men who approach you at tourist sites or with hotel staff. Instead, strike up conversations with the women. Even on trains, it is rare to see an Indian woman talk to a strange man unless she is with her husband.

Is India Safe to Travel for Families and Kids?

Yes, India is a safe country to spend some quality family time in. Besides planning your tour well, here are some extra tips for you.

Carefully Select Where to Eat

Food safety is a frequent problem when traveling in India, especially for the elderly and children with weaker stomachs, as hygiene is sometimes quite obviously not as good as in developed countries.

You're suggested to choose well-reviewed restaurants , try to eat hot freshly-cooked food , and drink bottled water with a sealed top . For salads and fruits, just stick to those washed or peeled by yourself.

Be Cautious about Stray Dogs and Wild Monkeys

In India, stray dogs and wild monkeys are commonly seen in the streets, attractions, and temples. Some of them might be aggressive or carry diseases . It is better to keep your kids away from them.

If your kids are interested in wildlife, you can read more about the best places to spot tigers in India.

Pack Some Common Medicine from Home

If you get ill or injured in India, you can easily get treatment in major cities . Common drugs can be found in local pharmacies in the big metropolises. Carrying some medicine from home is helpful too to deal with some emergencies .

Most popular tourist cities are fairly safe to travel to, such as Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, etc.

Is Delhi Safe to Travel?

Delhi does have a high crime rate like most other highly-populated cities in the world. But it is safe to travel in most tourist areas .

As the capital of India, Delhi houses many important national government offices, and so it has strict security checks and maintains a heavy police presence . You can travel freely, but you must follow some safety precautions that are now common in high terrorism risk areas, like not leaving belongings unattended.

When visiting crowded train stations or bustling markets , like Chandni Chowk, you'd better keep your valuables out of sight and out of easy reach to deter pickpockets.

Local traffic is quite chaotic , so please take care when you cross the road.

Although Delhi has a vibrant nightlife that many travelers like to enjoy, do avoid walking around the city in the late hours as much as possible. Staying in central Delhi and south Delhi is safer and more comfortable, and most travelers choose these areas. The backpacker areas like Paharganj, however, are not recommended .

See how to plan your Delhi trip safely >>>

Is Mumbai Safe to Travel?

Mumbai has a reputation for being one of the most unsafe cities in India. Petty crime is more frequent in this densely-populated city. However, most tourist areas in Mumbai are safe for foreign visitors if you follow the general safety principles talked about here.

During your visit, you should travel with caution in crowded places and when crossing the roads. For first-timers , Colaba, Churchgate Fort, and Marine Drive in South Mumbai are much safer places to stay.

Is Kerala Safe to Travel?

Being 'God's Own Country', Kerala is one of the safest places in India. And Cochin is one of the safest places to go in Kerala. Roads are well-maintained and people are friendly and well-educated. If you visit, stay at Fort Kochi and Wellington Island for the best conditions.

As one of the cleanest states in India, Kerala has better hygiene. However, street food in a wet market and tap water never deserve a try, especially for older travelers, young kids, and anyone with a vulnerable stomach.

Is Goa Safe to Travel?

Goa is known as a paradise of night parties and beaches. You can travel safely and freely, but it's still not suggested that you hang out past midnight, especially if you are a woman traveler. Meanwhile, a one-piece or tankini is better on public beaches due to the local culture. Bikinis are more suitable on private beaches.

If you're travelling with young kids, South Goa is safer for beach activities because of calmer waters and quieter beaches.

Travel Safely with Us

Safety is the basic ingredient for an enjoyable trip! Book with us to create a trouble-free India tour, tailor-made to reduce risk and to suit your needs. You will be escorted by careful and wise local guides with private transport. An Asia Highlights travel expert will always be on call for 24/7 live support.

Here are some sample itineraries for your reference:

• 11-Day India Highlights and Goa Honeymoon Trip
• 12-Day Family Holiday in India
• 14-Day Classic Rajasthan Tour

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• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 7-Day India Golden Triangle Tour
• 9-Day India Tiger Safari and Golden Triangle Tour
• 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour
• 11-Day India and Nepal Tour
• India Itineraries 2024: from 5 Days to 1 Month
• 2 Weeks in India 2024/2025: Top 4 Itineraries
• How to Plan Your First Trip to India 2024/2025
• Plan an Awesome Trip to India, Bhutan and Nepal (6 Tips)
• Weather and Where to Go in India in Janurary 2025
• Weather and Places to Go in India in February 2025
• Weather and Places to Go in India in March 2025
• India Weather & Best Places to Visit in April 2024
• Weather in India in May 2024 & Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in India in June 2024: Temperatures & Travel Tips
• Weather in India in July 2024: Temperatures & Travel Tips
• Weather in India in August 2024: Temperatures & Travel Tips
• September Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• October Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• Weather and Where to Go in India in November 2024
• Weather in India in December 2024 & Tips for First Visits

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Travelling Without a Passport

10 Things You Shouldn’t Do While Travelling Solo in India

You’re travelling solo to India and you simply can’t wait, which makes sense because India is beautiful.  No matter what happens it’s guaranteed to be an adventure, but that doesn’t seem you can’t prepare! Since you’ll be travelling solo, you need to be twice as diligent about taking care of yourself, which is why we’ve put together this list of 10 things you shouldn’t do while travelling solo in India.

Read our guide about India for solo female travellers

Our experience has taught us that there’s no such thing as being too prepared, so brush up now and concentrate on having a stellar time once you arrive. 

As an Indian female traveller who has moved all around her country – solo and otherwise – my single most important piece of advice would be to not underestimate the value of research. Because, there is more to India than just The Golden Triangle ! For its multiculturalism and ecological diversity, India is a treasure trove for every type of traveller. I’ve learnt that blending in with the places and its people – to the extent possible – is the best way to experience it. Consult with your host to understand local nuances better as these vary across the country. – Elita, Nomadic Thunker

1. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

There’s nothing worse than coming down with a stomach bug when you’re on your own and there’s no one to look after you. You could quite possibly feel like you’re dying a miserable death, as coming down with a serious case of diarrhoea or cholera is no joke! There are ways around this, though…you can carry a SteriPEN or similar water purifier with you that can sterilise the water you drink. Otherwise just make sure you stick to bottled water throughout your journey and skip the ice in restaurants. 

2. Don’t Ask for a Beef Steak… Anywhere

You might be a big fan of beef back home, but in India you will be frowned upon or even worse for insisting that you want to eat beef. Cows are sacred animals in India and you’ll see them roaming the streets freely alongside everyone else. It’s an absolute insult to even consider eating them and you could land yourself in hot water – with no one to back you up – if you make a scene about it.

3. Dress a Little More Reservedly

This is especially applicable to women. While the weather will no doubt be extremely hot, try and avoid walking around in your hot pants and cropped tops. Indians can be quite reserved and this is seen as disrespectful towards their culture. Humidity friendly clothing options can include maxi skirts, capris, flowy tops and loose, lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton or jersey. 

Respect the local culture. While Indians in small towns and villages are friendly and helpful, it’s always good to be mindful of the local culture. Like it or not, the country is still in a state of limbo as far as modernization is concerned. So unless you’re in one of the metro cities, avoid or exercise caution with regards to skimpy clothing (if it’s hot, loose cottons would help), public displays of affection (hand holding is fine), staying out late and befriending random strangers when inebriated. Also be careful while selecting guides; we’d advise against going along with local touts. – Ankita & Mohit, Trail-stained Fingers

4. Don’t Forget to Sign Up for Travel Insurance

You’re going to be far from home and alone so why not just let your parents relax and give yourself the peace of mind that comes with the security of travel insurance. Err on the side of caution by taking up some comprehensive travel insurance, as it’s not expensive and will be your very best friend if the worst happens. Should you get injured, travel insurance could be the difference between you having to navigate your way through local hospitals on your own or being flown back home to familiar territory.

Travel light. You want to be mobile in India as you wander down narrow roads and squeeze in packed transportation. Also, do research on a safe place to stay — especially traveling as a woman. I felt less stressed knowing my lodging had a good reputation and would give me good advice on any of my “off the beaten place destinations”. – Tara, Tara Shupe Photography

5. Don’t Be Offended by a Barrage of Questions

Travelling alone will result in you meeting people and them wanting to make you feel at home. Indians do this by way of a multitude of questions, some of them quite personal. It’s best not to get offended, as these are seen as more of a bonding exercise. They’re simply trying to get to know you and make you feel more at home.

See Also: Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling to India, Answered by Indians

6. Keep Your Left Hand Out of Bounds of Contact

Indians eat with their right hands and reserve their left hands for ablutions (washing oneself, typically as part of a ritual purification). Trying to shake someone’s hand with your left, or even reaching out to them with your left hand, is totally rude. Always remember that right is right, even if you’re left-handed.

7. Leave Your Feet Out of It

Aside from walking on them, try and keep your feet out of the equation. Feet are deemed to be dirty and even gesturing towards them can be seen as an insult. Don’t ever put your feet up on a chair or table and remember to take your shoes off before walking into people’s homes or sacred places such as temples.

8. Don’t be Alarmed When People Want to Take Your Photo

Again, this is more prevalent with women, but you shouldn’t be alarmed when your presence is requested in a photo. Consider it a compliment! It’s perfectly innocent in most cases and is also usually aimed at women. You can always mention that you’re married and your husband won’t approve if you start to feel overwhelmed or annoyed. Fine with it? Then don’t forget to smile!

When in India be flexible about your plans and expectations. There will be certain things that will happen and certain things that will not. Here, a Yes does not always mean a Yes and getting a No from an Indian is next to impossible. To save your frustration about delays and cancellations, always have a Plan B ready. But fret not, whatever changes will happen to your initial plan, they will bring you to unforgettable experiences. India may not offer you what you were initially expecting, but it will surely offer you a memory of your lifetime. – Devesh, Footloose Dev

9. Don’t be Afraid to Stand your Ground

Though the way of the world teaches us to be extremely cautious when travelling alone, there should be little cause for concern while adventuring through India. The people are kind and more than anything simply curious about new faces. If you do find yourself in a situation where you are being harassed, don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and be firm or even shout. The embarrassment alone will usually put an end to any negative behaviour.

10. Avoid Eating Street Food

The street food in India is notorious for causing some form of food poisoning or what has commonly become known as “Delhi Belly”. This usually only applies to the meat products, as it seems that foreigners have trouble breaking down this type of food. Overall you’ll find that the local cuisine is very affordable, so you shouldn’t have any trouble being able to afford to splurge at a fancier restaurant that’s more reputable amongst foreigners.

The most important piece of advice that I would give to a solo traveler through India would be to begin early and make sure of reaching the intended destination before dusk. Doing this would enable the traveler to find a budget place to stay and also minimize chances of trouble, by not travelling in the night. – Shubham, A boy who travels

Are you ready for your trip to India? Then book a solo tour today!   We’d love to know if you found our tips helpful and if we missed anything that should be on the list! 

Sebastian P.

From his hometown of Sydney, Australia, Sebastian has turned travel into a profession. Starting out as a tour guide in Sydney, he then moved to Europe to lead tours across the continent, before returning home where he continues inspiring others to find their own adventures.

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Why Tamil Nadu is Best for Solo Women Travelers in India

My Experience as a Solo Woman Traveler in Tamil Nadu, India

Soltan Frédéric/Getty Images

Women's safety is often a major concern for female travelers visiting India for the first time, especially those traveling solo. Horror stories are common. However, the reality is that not all of India is the same. While sexual harassment is prevalent in north India, it's noticeably less so in the south. And, in Tamil Nadu, it's almost absent.

Tamil Nadu doesn't usually feature on the itineraries of first-time visitors to India, who prefer to head north and see the famous attractions there . However, if you're a solo woman traveler who's worried about safety and how you'll cope with the challenges in India, Tamil Nadu is recommended as the best place to start your travels.

• Is India Unsafe for Foreign Women? What You Should Know

My Decision to Travel Around Tamil Nadu

"You should spend more time traveling in south India", a number of people told me. "It's different there."

I was no stranger to south India. After all, I'd lived in Kerala for eight months while I was managing a guesthouse in Varkala . I'd also visited quite a few places in Karnataka , Chennai a couple of times, and infamously drove an auto rickshaw from Chennai to Mumbai . In Chennai, I had noticed that people rarely gave me a second glance, unlike many other places in India where I was often leered at and photographed by groups of men. It was refreshing.

So, on a whim, I decided to embark on a solo trip through Tamil Nadu. I wanted to see some of the state's temples and my husband wasn't interested in joining me. Plus, I wanted to experience what it would be like as a single, white, female traveling alone there and on a budget. I'd already explored most states in India, so I had a lot to compare it to.

Planning the Trip

I planned a whirlwind itinerary: six destinations ( Madurai , Rameshwaram , Tanjore , Chidambaram, Pondicherry, and Tiruvannamalai ) in 10 days. Apart from flights there and back, I would travel to each destination by bus or train, and stay in hotels priced from 500-2,000 rupees per night. I researched, planned and made all my travel arrangements myself -- so I really would be alone. There wouldn't be any tour company or travel agency looking after me. And, I didn't know one word of the language (Tamil), so I wouldn't have any real advantage over other travelers who were new to India.

However, knowing that Tamil Nadu is one of India's more conservative states, I made sure I packed accordingly -- Indian clothes only and all with short sleeves (unlike the sleeveless kurtas I commonly wear at home in cosmopolitan Mumbai ).

It was with some trepidation and the usual touch of paranoia that I arrived at Madurai airport, my first destination, wondering what to expect. How would people treat me and how hard would it be to travel around by myself?

My First Impressions

I threw myself into my adventure by going on a four hour guided walking tour with Madurai Inhabitants the next morning. It gave me a fabulous introduction to the city. The friendliness of people was quickly apparent, including women. They were outgoing and called me over to take their photos. In addition, women could commonly be seen in places usually dominated by men, including sitting by the roadside drinking chai . Some other places I found women were working along side men in restaurants and behind the front desks in hotels.

Within a couple of days, I felt myself relaxing and all tension dissolving. Even though I was alone, I felt secure, safe, and confident. It was a strange and unexpected feeling. People spoke good English and were helpful. I was easily able to find my way around bus stations, which had been one of my biggest concerns. People also tended to mind their own business. They seemed simple and dignified. I felt like I had some dignity too. I wasn't constantly being hounded by shopkeepers or having to keep my guard up against sexual harassment. At one destination, Chidambaram, I didn't see another foreigner the whole time I was there. Yet, I wasn't overtly stared at or bothered.

Did men approach me during the trip? Yes, a few times. Although, more often than not, they wanted to pose for a photo by themselves. Elsewhere in India, I'm used to finding cameras pointed at me instead of the monuments. If the men of Tamil Nadu did photograph me, I didn't readily notice or feel uncomfortable about it. On the whole, they were very respectful towards me.

Why is Tamil Nadu Better for Women?

I carried out a bit of research to try and discover the reason why Tamil Nadu seemed to be a better place for women. Apparently, it can be attributed to as far back as the Sangam era of Tamil literature, from around 350 BC to 300 AD. This literature championed the education of women and their acceptance in the public sphere. They had considerable freedom to choose their own partners, and participated actively in the social life and work of the community. Although there has been a decline in the status of women since then, clearly Tamil Nadu is still well ahead of many other places in India.

I do realize that other women travelers may have a different experience of Tamil Nadu to what I did. However, there were a number of other things I really liked about the state, which all contributed to me enjoying my time there immensely. On the whole, the roads are in excellent condition, and buses are a very convenient and economical way of getting around. The hotels I stayed in were clean, efficiently managed, and represented good value for money. Compared to some parts of India, Tamil Nadu is laid back and uncrowded. The temples are magnificent as well, and their sprawling grounds are peaceful.

I'm looking forward returning! (The only drawback is that I'm not a fan of south Indian breakfasts, but that's a different matter)!

Where to Go in Tamil Nadu

For the sake of convenience, most people fly into Chennai and start their trip there. Then, they head down the coast to Mammallapuram and Pondicherry.

Check out these 11 Top Tourist Places in Tamil Nadu and 10 Places to See South Indian Temples to get some ideas.

If you are a woman who's planning on visiting India and aren't familiar with the culture, also do read this very informative book on women's safety in India.

India Travel: Issues to Know at Top Tourist Places

15 Places to See Magnificent Temples in South India

20 Solo Trips in 2020: I Traveled Solo During COVID-19

Guide to Popular Tourist Sites in India by Region

19 Top Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu

An Argument for Girls Who Sleep Alone in the Woods

Chennai Guide: Planning Your Trip

Monsoon Trekking to Malana, in India's Himachal Pradesh

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The Top 18 Things to Do in Tiruchirappalli, India

My Experiences Traveling Alone As a Black Woman

The Top 13 Things to Do in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

A Summer Exploring the Culture and Sights of Ladakh

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Solo Trekking in Nepal's Everest National Park

Is Delhi Safe? A Solo Female Traveller’s Perspective (2024)

Let’s be honest, Delhi , India’s bustling capital, doesn’t have the reputation of being the safest city in the world. The Delhi gang rape made headlines in 2012, and the city is often described as the most dangerous one in India. So if you’re planning on visiting this city during your next trip, you might ask yourself the question “Is Delhi safe?”.

I visited Delhi a couple of times and am heading back there regularly. After all, this city is an inevitable stop when you’re travelling in the north of India .

You will find my honest opinion about safety in Delhi in this post and my personal experiences travelling here as a solo female.

Is Delhi Safe?

Delhi is famous for its huge population and crime and sexual harassment do occur here. However, this is the case in many cities, and in my experience, Delhi is as safe as any other metropolitan city. I was harassed more times in Brussels, where I’m from, than in Delhi, for example. But then again, I also spent more time in Brussels.

As long as you use your common sense, dress modestly and take some precautions (you can read more about this later), you should be fine (keeping in mind that something bad could happen anywhere).

I won’t lie though – Delhi isn’t a city for everyone . Although it is home to some spectacular historical landmarks and there are many friendly people here, Delhi is also home to plenty of creeps and people who are looking to scam you.

Solo female travel in Delhi

I visited Delhi a couple of times by myself and stayed in Paharganj – the not-so-nice neighbourhood – each time, used public transportation to get around and walked for kilometres alone in multiple areas.

Although I came across some situations that weren’t very pleasant, I never felt unsafe in Delhi.

Most unpleasant situations were linked to people trying to scam me . When I wanted to walk from the railway station to Paharganj, for example, a security guard stopped me and told me I couldn’t walk that way because the street was closed. I ended up taking an auto-rickshaw that brought me to a fake travel agency. I’m not interested in tours, so I didn’t buy anything, but it ended up being a total waste of time.

On another occasion, I found a guy banging his head against the wall right in front of the door of my hotel room in Paharganj. He ignored me when I passed by, but things like this are not uncommon if you stay in this area. So, I would recommend staying in a nicer area, like South Delhi, for a more pleasant visit (this is what I will do too from now on).

Delhi is not my favourite city, not because of the city itself but due to the scams and bad accommodation, but you will read more about this later.

Keeping the negatives aside, I think Delhi is worth visiting ! It’s home to some of India’s most famous landmarks , like Humayun’s Tomb, the Red Fort and the Lotus Temple, after all.

Overall, as long as you use your common sense and stick to some rules, I think Delhi is safe for solo female travellers.

>> Read: 17 Things NOT to Do in India

Scams in Delhi

There aren’t many places in the world where people tried to scam me as much as they did in Delhi.

Apart from auto-rickshaw drivers trying to charge me ten times the local price (which is normal in India), they would also try to drop me off at shops or fake travel agencies where they “don’t receive a commission”.

It’s good to know that there are plenty of fake offices selling train and bus tickets , fake travel agencies , etc in this city. Oh, and you can’t trust security guards or the police, as they’re all in it or simply don’t care!

Another common scam is where your taxi or rickshaw driver either tells you that your hotel doesn’t exist or that he can bring you to a better one that’s cheaper (and where he will get a commission).

So make sure to research the most common scams in Delhi before heading there, I’ve written an entire post about them. Although I was aware of many scams, weird things still happened to me in this city.

Accommodation

And then there’s the accommodation… This is my least favourite thing about Delhi.

Reviews on Booking, Agoda and other websites are often fake when it comes to budget hotels, and so are the pictures .

One of the hotels I stayed at in Delhi took my phone to “look at the booking reference” and wrote a fake review. Luckily though, you can adapt reviews later, hah!

So far, I stayed in five different hotels in Delhi, and they were all equally horrible. From dirty, mouldy bathrooms and dirty bedsheets to bedroom doors without a lock and windows that were taped together and falling apart, the accommodation in Delhi is worse than in any other city I’ve ever visited. This includes Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh , where it was surprisingly nice.

If you can afford it, then Delhi is a place where you will want to spend more money on accommodation if you want to stay in a clean place. I paid between 800 and 1400 INR during my stay in Delhi.

Tip : Read the worst reviews before booking a hotel in Delhi (or anywhere else in India), these are usually the real ones when you’re staying at budget accommodation.

Taxis and rickshaws in Delhi

When it comes to taking taxis or rickshaws in Delhi, I never experienced any serious problems, although most of them did try to scam or cheat me.

I would recommend using the Ola app when you’re travelling in India. It works just like Uber and will allow you to book an auto-rickshaw, bike or taxi for a fair price. This way, you won’t need to haggle and it will be less likely that the driver will try to scam you.

If you need to take a rickshaw at night , it’s also safer to book one with the Ola app.

Tips to Stay Safe in Delhi

It’s important to use your common sense , especially if you’re travelling in India solo (or anywhere else for that matter).

You will find some of my best tips on how to stay safe in Delhi below.

Don’t trust strangers

As I mentioned in the “Scams in Delhi” section, people will try to convince you that your hotel does not exist, that you can’t book bus tickets yourself and a million other things. Don’t trust just anyone and research things online if you want to be sure.

Don’t tell anyone where you’re staying either. You don’t want them showing up at your hotel or stalking you (this happened to me in Yangon, Myanmar).

Another thing I was told multiple times is not to accept food from strangers. I can’t find anything about it online (and I don’t know if it’s true), but according to a story, some men offered a tourist a drug-injected banana on the train and robbed him once he was out.

This being said, there are plenty of nice people in Delhi too, and chances are they will want to take many, many selfies with you.

Be aware of your surroundings

Stay alert, be aware of the people around you and keep an eye on your belongings at any time. There is petty crime in Delhi, and you don’t want to be the victim of pickpockets, for example.

It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on the water bottles that you buy. There have been reports of people selling water bottles filled with tap water in cities like Delhi and Bombay .

If you feel uncomfortable or if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and leave. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Act confident

People will be less likely to scam or bother you if you act confident. Walk as if you know exactly where you’re going, even if you haven’t got a clue, for example.

If someone is bothering you, firmly say “no” or tell them that you’re not interested and ask them to leave. I usually do this two times, then ignore them. People can be very, very pushy in India, and being polite does not do the trick here.

>> Read: Groping in India: How Common Is It?

The pictures above were not taken in Delhi (obviously) but at the Taj Mahal and Patrika Gate in Jaipur . The outfit that I’m wearing, however, is something I would typically wear in Delhi too.

Dress appropriately

Although Delhi is one of the few places in India where you will see some women wearing shorts and spaghetti tops, I personally cover my shoulders and legs (especially in Old Delhi).

When you’re travelling in India, you will already stand out. I can’t recall the number of times that I was surrounded by dozens of men asking for a selfie. If you’re wearing revealing clothes, you will only attract even more (unwanted) attention.

On top of that, you will have to pack a more conservative wardrobe if you’re planning on visiting the rest of India, and you will also have to cover up if you want to visit temples and other religious sites.

So, if you’re asking me, in Delhi, maxi skirts, maxi dresses, loose pants, t-shirts and scarves are your best friend.

>> Read: What to Wear in India: 5 Tips + Outfit Ideas

Buy a local SIM card

Having a local sim and being able to access the internet is so handy when you’re travelling.

A local sim won’t only allow you to research things online and stay in touch with friends and family, but it will also allow you to call for help if necessary.

You can buy local sims at the Indira Gandhi International Airport or the provider’s shops. Airtel, Jio and Vi (Vodafone) are the most popular ones. However (if what they told me is true), Jio doesn’t sell SIM cards to foreigners anymore.

Don’t walk around dodgy areas at night

I think this one speaks for itself. Walking around dodgy areas at night is not a good idea in any city, let alone in a metropolis like Delhi.

This doesn’t mean you can’t go outside in the evening, though. Just be extra careful and stick to well-lit places with people around.

If you need to take a rickshaw later in the evening, I would order one via Ola.

Prepare yourself for culture shock

If it’s your first time in India, you might experience culture shock. The best way to handle this is to have an open mind and accept that things will be different as they are back home.

I love India, but I’m the first to admit that this is not a country for everyone. India can be overwhelming at times, it is dirty , overpopulation is a problem and travelling here can be uncomfortable .

On top of that, it’s not uncommon to be surrounded by dozens of men asking for a selfie. Most people are sweet and respectful, though, but not everyone.

This being said, India is also famous for being steeped in culture and tradition, and it’s incredibly varied too. Not many countries have beaches, mountains and deserts, after all!

Is Delhi safe? Final Thoughts

All in all, I think Delhi is as safe as any big capital. However, overall, more people will try to scam you here.

Therefore, it’s important to come prepared. Research the most common scams in Delhi, use your common sense, dress modestly and trust your gut. It might be useful to learn some basic Hindi too.

Don’t let any of this stop you from visiting India’s bustling capital, though. Delhi has a lot to offer, from spectacular landmarks to delicious food (do make sure to read my tips on how to avoid Delhi belly )!

I know I focussed a lot on scams and not-so-nice experiences in his post, but sadly, this is part of the “Delhi experience”. There are many friendly and helpful people in this city too, though!

So, are you ready to start planning that trip to Delhi? Check out my Delhi itinerary next!

If you’re planning on visiting more places in India, you may like one of the following posts too:

Read more about travelling in India:

• Groping in India: How Common Is It?
• 17 Things NOT to Do in India
• What to Wear in India: 5 Tips + Outfit Ideas
• How to AVOID Getting Sick in India: 10 Tips You Need
• 19 Reasons Why You Should Visit India
• 39 Indian Landmarks to See on Your Trip
• The Ultimate India Travel Bucket List: 35 Ideas

India Travel Planning Checklist

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars  to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

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Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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22 things you need to know before visiting India

Dec 15, 2023 • 14 min read

India is a feast for the senses and we've got everything you need to know before you visit © Andrii Lutsyk / Ascent Xmedia / Getty Images

India is a place that overwhelms your senses in the best possible way – nowhere else delivers quite the same barrage of sights, sounds and sensations as this continent-sized country at the heart of Asia.

It would take a lifetime to see all of India , let alone understand every nuance and facet of this nation of 1.4 billion inhabitants. But with a little preparation, you can learn to navigate the richness of this country, from its snow-capped peaks and velvety beaches to its historic temples and luxuriant palaces.

We've collated the top things you need to know about visiting India, but the journey begins before you leave home. Apply for your Indian visa online for a smooth arrival on the subcontinent. Read on for 22 more insider tips that will help make your vacation unforgettable.

1. Plan your trip around the seasons

India has a reputation for being hot and humid, but with beaches, mountains, hills, coastlines and plains all jammed into a relatively small geographical area, the climate is quite diverse. The southwest monsoon brings rainy weather to most of the country from June to September, but this is the best time of year to visit the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh , although depending on the route you take, you risk encountering landslides and floods.

In the far south, there’s also a milder rainy season from October to December. The ideal weather window for travel is from October to May, though temperatures and humidity climb to agonizing levels from March onwards in the run-up to the monsoon. If you find yourself in India in the spring, head to the Himalayan foothills for milder temperatures and good trekking conditions.

2. Get your jabs before you travel

There is no official requirement for vaccinations to enter India (although yellow fever vaccination is needed if you are traveling from a country where the disease is endemic).

That said, it is important that you contact a health professional at least eight weeks before you travel to ensure your jabs are up to date. Vaccinations for diphtheria and tetanus, hepatitis A and B, polio and typhoid are usually recommended, on top of childhood vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella.

Vaccinations worth considering for longer trips include Japanese B encephalitis, meningitis and rabies. Monkeys, dogs and cats can all carry the rabies parasite, and infection is fatal if untreated.

3. Take malaria precautions

Depending on where in India you are traveling to, you may want to speak to your healthcare provider about taking a course of anti-malarial tablets. For instance, northeastern and eastern parts of India, as well as the city of Mangalore, have a higher malaria risk.

Always take precautions to avoid mosquito bites – this will also help you avoid dengue fever, a viral infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes to humans. Sleeping under a mosquito net, wearing long sleeves and trousers in light colors, and using a repellent and/or a plug-in mosquito killer with a high concentration of DEET (diethyltoluamide) is advisable.

4. Get insured

Travel insurance is essential for India. Depending on where you travel to, you may find public hospitals are poorly equipped. Additionally, most private clinics and hospitals require payment ahead of treatment. Make sure you are covered for emergency evacuation and also for any adventure activities you plan to get involved in.

If you’re unlucky enough to be a victim of crime, contact the local police station or dial 100 or 112, the national emergency number. You’ll need to get the police to file a report (a “FIR" – First Information Report) to make a claim on your travel insurance.

5. Book ahead for busy times and festivals

India can get very busy from November to February, so affordable accommodation is usually swamped in peak season. It’s a good idea to book ahead, either directly with the venues or via booking aggregator sites such as Agoda and MakeMyTrip .

Also, book train tickets in advance where possible , particularly for popular routes. Tickets can be booked (with a fair amount of hassle) via the government booking site IRCTC or more easily through local booking sites such as 12Go or Cleartrip .

6. Plan your comms before you travel

Many things in India (including train bookings or ordering food online) get easier if you have a local SIM card. Bring an unlocked phone from home (or pick one up locally) and get a phone shop to sign you up for a local pay-as-you-go SIM package on arrival. You’ll need to bring passport photos and photocopies of your passport ID pages to complete the application.

7. Check your lunar calendars

While India officially follows the Gregorian calendar, the major festivals for Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam and several other religions follow lunar calendars and fall on different dates from year to year. Always check festival dates before you book your trip (bearing in mind these dates are subject to change); the Indian government maintains a useful online list of public holidays .

8. Learn local etiquette

English is the  lingua franca in most metropolitan areas in India, and you’ll get away with polite hellos, goodbyes and thank yous in smaller towns too. However, if you’re traveling in northern India, you can say "namaste" (I bow to you) with your hands together in a prayer-like gesture in front of your chest. Similarly, when meeting Muslims in north India, you can say "salaam alaikum" (peace be with you) – the correct response is "alaikum salaam." Most of the time, it’s the effort that’s welcomed over pronunciation, so don’t be shy!

Shaking hands is a standard business greeting between men, but outside metropolitan regions, men and women rarely shake. Only ever use your right hand. The same rule applies when passing things to people – including money.

If you get invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift (flowers or sweets are always a safe bet) and remove your shoes before entering. It’s polite to eat and drink what you are offered, even if you don’t really fancy it.

9. Dress modestly

Depending on where in India you are, modesty is taken seriously – especially for women. Travelers of any gender will have an easier time if they wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their legs and arms. Swimwear is only appropriate for the beach – although it is not uncommon to see locals swim fully clothed. To fit in, consider investing in a kurta pyjama (a traditional garment resembling a long shirt and loose trousers for men) or a salwar kameez (a long shirt, loose trousers and scarf for women).

10. What to eat and how to eat it

Many religions in India have their own dietary rules. Muslims avoid pork, many Hindus avoid beef, and some Hindus and Buddhists are vegetarian or vegan. Many Jains are vegetarians who avoid some vegetables (most notably onions, garlic and potatoes) and who try to avoid causing harm to all living creatures. These rules mean vegan and vegetarian food is often easy to find in India.

Eating with your hands is the norm in many restaurants, particularly in parts of southern India. Take your cue from other patrons in the restaurant, and remember to eat with your right hand. Mix rice and curry into balls with your fingers and push it into your mouth with your thumb. Some thalis (plate meals consisting of multiple dishes served in tandem) are served not on a plate but on a washed and flash-heated banana leaf.

11. Haggling is not a game of life and death

Haggling for a fair price when buying things – in street stalls and open-air markets – is a way of life in India. Although it can sometimes be a frustrating experience, losing your temper is extremely bad form – if you can’t agree on a price with the vendor that you are both happy with, politely decline and shop somewhere else.

The rules of the game are as follows. The vendor will quote you a price that is more than the item is worth, then you’ll come back with a counter-offer, working up from there until you reach a mutually agreeable figure.

The “walking away” trick may bring a few last-minute adjustments, but before long, you’ll reach a threshold that the vendor won’t go below. Throwing in extra items may bring a discount on the overall cost. Many travelers prefer not to haggle in places where the money goes directly to artisans.

12. Respect etiquette at religious sites

Religion is taken very seriously in India, so it pays to know the rules and expectations for visits to temples, mosques, monasteries, gurdwaras (Sikh shrines), synagogues and churches. Always check if you are allowed to enter – some temples and mosques are closed to people who don’t follow the faith. Mosques may also be closed to visitors during prayers or on Fridays.

If asked to do so, remove your shoes before entering any religious building, and be prepared to cover your head with a scarf or shawl. Generally, always cover your legs and arms (a sarong can be handy as an emergency cover-all). Some temples also ban leather goods, and many religious sites do not allow photography.

Avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards a person or deity – this is considered disrespectful. The same goes for touching any person or effigy on the head. It is conventional to walk around Buddhist and Hindu shrines in a clockwise direction, in a ceremonial circuit known as a parikrama .

Making an offering or leaving a donation is often expected – locals always offer something, but be wary of people waving receipts showing huge donations. Giving something is appropriate, but don’t feel pressured into leaving large sums.

13. Giving alms is common but up to you

The giving of alms has a long history in India, and foreigners can expect to be approached regularly with requests for money. Whether you give or not is a personal choice, but many Indians give on a daily basis, particularly when visiting temples and mosques. Be aware that some requests for money will be scams, and you may be able to do more good by giving your time or cash to charity or aid organizations you’ve taken time to research, rather than handing out cash.

14. Respect local social attitudes

India has complex social rules about respect for elders. Depending on where you are traveling to, older people are often greeted with the honorific “auntie” or “uncle,” and the ending ji may also be added to someone’s name as a sign of respect.

Outside bigger cities, India can be quite conservative when it comes to interactions between unmarried men and women. Also, most parts of India are conservative when it comes to same-sex relationships. Whatever your sexuality, it’s best to avoid public displays of affection.

15. Street harassment is unfortunately common

Although harassment can happen anywhere, parts of India are constantly in the news owing to a lack of women’s safety. Beyond long, unwelcome stares and persistent attempts to start a conversation, more serious assaults are also a risk. Groping is common in crowds (particularly during festivals).

Exercise caution like you would anywhere else, and remain alert. Never get into a taxi or auto rickshaw containing anyone other than the driver, and avoid walking alone in quiet areas, particularly at night. Decline offers of food or drinks from strangers.

If traveling by public transport as a woman, it's best to seek out train carriages and designated seating reserved for women. Wearing a wedding ring (even if not married) and using dark sunglasses and headphones can buy you some privacy on public transport. If you are being hassled, drawing loud attention to the intrusion may encourage others to come to your aid.

16. Keep track of security situations in India

India has seen deadly attacks by separatist and Marxist groups and Kashmiri insurgents. Monitor the local news and be alert for suspicious behavior, particularly around major tourist sites. Always check the security situation before traveling to Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley in case of flare-ups of unrest. Strikes, demonstrations and protests are also best avoided, as violence is a risk. It goes without saying but in the event of trouble, obey local curfews and stay inside – your hotel is probably the safest place to be.

17. Take the altitude seriously when hiking

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk when traveling above 2500m (8202ft), which covers most of the Indian Himalayas . AMS can be fatal, so always ascend slowly and take rest days to allow your body to acclimate to significant elevation changes. If you begin to feel ill while hiking in the mountains, stop, and if your symptoms don’t improve, descend immediately.

18. Familiarize yourself with local rules and regulations

India has a few laws and regulations that visitors might be unfamiliar with. For instance, taking photographs of bridges, the periphery of military camps and border crossings – or flying drones over them – is considered a serious security issue.

When traveling by plane internally in India, you may be asked to surrender batteries from devices in your cabin bags. Smoking is banned in most public places, and a few states also have bans on the consumption of beef – killing or injuring a cow in a road accident, even accidentally, can lead to violent reprisals.

To avoid sticky situations, take the time to research where you’re going, and talk to staff at your hotel or hostel or your B&B host for advice on things to be aware of.

19. Steer clear of drugs

India may have a reputation amongst travelers as a place to push boundaries, but its drug laws are strict. Possessing even small amounts of drugs for personal use can lead to a prison sentence.

Some religious groups are permitted to consume marijuana for ceremonial purposes, but that often doesn’t extend to tourists. You can, however, find bhaang – a marijuana mixture made with the leaves (rather than the bud) of the cannabis plant – at government-approved bhaang shops.

20. Avoid the tap water

The tap water in India is not potable. Drinking or brushing your teeth with it can be a fast track to stomach troubles – the most common illness tourists experience in India. Stick to purified or bottled water (or even better, purify your own to avoid contributing to India’s plastic waste mountain).

The water rule extends to ice (be wary of ice in drinks and ice cream) and to uncooked foods, particularly salads and dishes such as coriander chutneys, which may have been washed with contaminated water. When eating fruit, stick to things you can peel or wash thoroughly yourself, and be cautious of freshly prepared juices. Hot drinks are generally fine, so drink your fill of chai (milky tea, often spiced and sweet).

21. Watch local news to keep track of natural disasters

Some geographical areas in India are prone to natural disasters, and the risk is higher in certain seasons. Hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh, for instance, often see flash flooding and landslides during the monsoon. Be alert to signs of natural disasters and keep an eye on the local news so you know which areas to avoid. Follow the Indian Meteorological Department’s website as well as their social media handle for timely updates.

If you are caught up in a natural disaster, follow the advice of emergency workers and try to leave the area quickly.

22. Spot the scams

India has a reputation for scams designed to separate tourists from their money, and touts and confidence tricksters can often be found where tourists gather. Get tourist information and make bookings at official offices, rather than “tourist offices” you have been led to by people offering unsolicited help.

If anyone steers you to a hotel, shop or other establishment without you asking, they may be angling for a commission, which will be added to the price you pay. Be dubious of claims that the place you want to go is “closed” – always check yourself to be sure.

Exercise common sense and be wary of deals that sound too good to be true – for example, the gem scam, where travelers are tricked into buying worthless gems to “sell at a profit back home.”

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2023

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Is India Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• India : Safety by City
• Navi Mumbai
• Thiruvananthapuram

The largest country in the South Asia Region, the land impossible to remember once you visit it, India, is located in the center of South Asia.

Officially referred to as the Republic of India, it is the seventh-largest country in the world by area and has a population of over one billion people.

It is second only to China in population, though probably not for long.

India is an extremely memorable country, and due to its size, it varies widely in geography, climate, culture, language and ethnicity across the country.

As for tourist attractions and things to see and do in India, there are so many options that you would probably need to stay in India for a period of six months in order to see it all.

It one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and fastest developing countries which make its cities an attraction by themselves.

Though it has its parts that are ridden with poverty, it’s considered to be an emerging superpower.

Among the breathtaking things to see in India is one of the world wonders – the Taj Mahal, you can see tigers in some of the best national parks, and enjoy the Goa beach that is visited by more and more tourists every year.

• Warnings & Dangers in India

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Though India is considered a generally safe country, due to its size, there are more dangerous areas and less dangerous ones. It is necessary that you remain vigilant at all times.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Be wary of pickpockets in public transport, and taxi drivers (as well as tuk-tuk drivers) trying to rip you off. Be especially careful in the overnight buses or trains and don't accept any food or drinks as they might be spiked. Keep in mind that driving is dangerous because of poor road conditions and the fact that India follows the left-hand driving system.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets operate literally everywhere in India. Be careful not to get your pockets picked and bag snatching is another very common form of petty theft. Pickpockets are especially common in public transport.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

The main threats to India when it comes to natural disasters are earthquakes, floods and severe storms that commonly hit this beautiful country causing great damage.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Muggings and kidnappings aren't at all common in India.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

India keeps being targeted by terrorists so there is a great risk of them trying to carry out an attack again. Anti-Western terrorist groups sometimes operate in India, including Islamist extremist groups.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

This is a serious issue in India. If you're a first-time traveler to India, you will most certainly get scammed as this country is notorious for scams performed on tourists. Taxi scams with taxi drivers convincing you to take other accommodation are very common, as are those where vendors give you less change than they should. Whatever service anyone offers you - you find out how much it costs first, because they will try to charge literally everything.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Sexual assaults are on the rise in India, and it is dangerous for women to travel alone in this country, whether by day or night. Always strive to be accompanied by someone when outside. Move-in groups and avoid poorly lit and deserted streets.

• So... How Safe Is India Really?

Generally speaking, India is mostly safe for tourists.

Violent crime isn’t common in this country, especially not against foreigners, while petty theft does exist but it is more prominent in areas frequented by tourist.

You can expect pickpockets in crowded places such as bus and train stations, and it is highly advised that you keep your bags and belongings tightly by your side because bag snatching is also one of the popular forms of petty crime.

Thieves have been known to break into accommodations and rooms where tourists reside.

Be prepared that people are going to try and scam you or extort money from you, even the police, though the situation with corruption has improved during the last couple of years.

Keep in mind that homosexuality is illegal in India under a colonial-era law, with penalties of imprisonment or a fine.

The law that is still in force has been used for years to harass the LGBTQ community.

Police officers have been known to harass, extort money from and blackmail homosexuals in India, so members of LGBTQ might want to think twice before venturing into this country.

India follows the left-hand driving system, which can cause difficulties for tourists wishing to rent a car.

If you plan on driving in India, bear in mind that Indian roads aren’t in the best condition and that Indian drivers can oftentimes be reckless when behind the wheel, and don’t forget that you might run into wandering livestock on the road.

• How Does India Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries need a visa in order to enter India. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, it is best to visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa.

The Indian rupee is the official currency in India. ATMs are widespread in most towns and as for credit cards, it is advised to always carry cash as a backup. MasterCard and Visa are the most widely accepted credit cards.

Indian climate is mostly influenced by the Himalayas and the Thar Desert. Since it is so large, the climate in India vastly varies, ranging from tropical in the south to temperate and alpine in the Himalayan north. The elevated areas in the north commonly receive sustained winter snowfall.

Indira Gandhi International Airport is the primary civilian hub for the National Capital Region of Delhi, India. It is located in Palam, 15 km south-west of the New Delhi railway station and 16 km from New Delhi city centre.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to India, since it covers not only the costs medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

India Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

India - Safety by City

Explore india.

• 10 Best Beaches in India
• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in India
• 10 Most Beautiful Castles in India
• 10 Safest Cities in India
• A Culinary Tour of India for Vegetarians
• Where to Next?

113 Reviews on India

Section 377, LGBTQ+ people are now legal in India.

Awesome India

Contrary to what internet mentions, India is a very safe country if you understand and respect local culture, tradition and beliefs. Excluding the 7 metros, women dont go out putting their meat on display. Dress modestly and in comfortable clothing without putting your undergarments on display. You are seeking unwanted attention when you dont dresss properly. I have travelled every other year to India and not once I have been mugged or my drink has been spiked even after accepting drinks from strangers. The biggest safety factor in India for tourists is its population !! There are just people everywhere and nowhere to hide from public. Tell me which city in west doesnt have shady areas in its cities and towns? Indian also has its fair share. Avoid them and you will be safe. Day time is very very safe in India and dow aht you want. pickpocket is a huge problem but mainly in 4 metros and big cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad. On another note, it is fun to watch how people of differnet religion, belief, culture live in one country with such a good harmony. They not only celebrate Hindu festivals like Diwali and Holi, but also celebrate Eid, Christmas, Mahavir jayanthi and Hanukkah. You will NEVER see that ANYWHERE in the world.

Thank you soooooo much

You will see multi ethnic celebrations in Mauritius too

I went and was almost scammed every 5-10 minutes… people trying to pick pocket and being annoyed by everyone trying to be my friend….. holiday turned into a nightmare

How surprising, people in India have fear from law and order. So, no such thing happens. Yes, of course wherever this happens are not tourist or general place to visit by tourist or normal Indians even. India is safe to travel in night even. Roads are much better now in past 5-6 years. Everything is online and record of booking and can be shared with any of your known. Every genuine travel co. is on apps enabled with police alerting system. Everyone in India will tell you where to go if you want some such adventure. That is for Indians themselves as well. But no one will kill you.

Well said 🙏

I agree...India is quite safe.

You might want to visit Suriname on the northwest coast of South America. Diwali and Holi, Eid, Christmas, Mahavir Jayanti as well as Hanukkah, all publicly celebrated there as well. BTW – I enjoyed my visit to India very much and found it quite safe. Of course, I investigated and respected local customs during my visit.

This is why my Dutch Indian friend said We Indian always said we’re proud of something or we’re good at something but in the end, they are not. They are just skippy mean they rather ignore the mistake and keep doing mistake. Why not just said we’re not proud human beings but we are trying to make things living better and make it safe. Like for India r*pe crime is like Holy *** that s*** higher than Covid infection

religious hatred on raise

I don’t know when you wrote this review… but today India is a country of concern for women, minorities and hindu dalits Multiple agressions against minorities, religious hate speech by politicians and hindu godmens have rosen to 1130 % last year… Unfortunately the bjp ruling party pays heavily the medias to mask all the odds but only lies on the net.. Anyway just check your consul services and you will have better information

Best Country to visit, live, learn and enjoy.

am not sure which part of country or even the world you have roam around! India is by far one of the most safest countries for people of all the cast, color and sex. Its population is almost 4 times of USA and there are more than 18 officially recognized languages in India, with every 100 Kms the dialect gets changed and every state having there own mother and state languages. With so much of diversity and with a population of 1.39 billions its pity how the fewer cases of violence and aggression are read as biggest threats to the community and harmony. When the whole world is crippling against the religious hatred India is holding its head way higher as epitome of religious harmony. In US, every other day some or the other racial attack will happen, people will ignore, go to Paris the most beautiful city in the Europe, every minute of your walk will be full of fear of getting looted or attacked by small miscreants. Forget nights, even in the day time its so unsafe to walk in the streets of Paris. Everywhere pick pocketing will happen. On the concern of women, no western world can stand in front of India. As every day hundreds of cases will come up as the crime against women, child in the US, Germany, France but nothing seems to effect you people but the cases or crimes once it happened in India becomes a world wide spectra. Agreed India is still developing and still in lag with the western world but when it comes to the safety and developments it is and it will always be the best country to visit, live, learn and enjoy. cheers!

It’s an amazing country,best place for tourists to enjoy and above all I guarantee you the safety as well .Yes go well dressed be decent enough and there you go the finest things ,places food shopping to enjoy .Yes there is no country in the world 100% safe but from all India is the safest .Thanks.

Nope..just because you are india..you won’t deny anything right..rape cases happen in india every 13 sec lol

Your attitude makes things better or worse

pick pockets, frauds are around everything else is good. nowadays some moral policing cases reported. anyhow dont believe any one blindly then it would be a nice vacation over there

India is Safe

India is the most misunderstood country in the world.

There is no country in the world which assure 100% safety in the world, same with India.

There are few pointers which separate India from the outside world:

1. People carrying a gun or any dangerous weapon is uncommon and not legal in India. While most of the nations are fighting with this problem, India is far better and secure in these terms. 2. Indian people are genuinely good, especially in tourist areas like Goa, Kerala, Maharashtra, Northern State, Kashmir and more. They accepted tourism as a culture and source of earning. 3. I do not buy writers comment about terrorism in India. I am not denying terrorism especially in one state JnK has some issues, but even in that state they treat guests and tourist well and there is not a single incident in JnK in last 20+ years where foreign tourist face any problem. All other India is completely safe. 4. Women safety is a world wide issue and needs to be taken seriously. Basic precautions are necessary not only in India but in every part of the world. Indians are mostly well-behaved but misunderstood in this term. 5. India is too crowded to be unsafe :-).

India is a beautiful country with all the flavors and culture.

Few things as per me you need to take care of are:

1. Don’t drive. If you are an outsider do not even try to drive in India, even if you are a certified F1 driver. 2. Avoid street food, especially who has a weak stomach. 3. Choose your time carefully to visit India in terms of weather.

Edit it man

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

Thank you for your advice.

Nice joke,india is safe country

Really nice pieces of information. Thanks for sharing. We have not seen any terrorist attack out of J&K for the last 7 years. Today India has the best government that nicely maintains terrorism.

What ever Hemendra Singh told about india is absolutely correct generally indian people are friendly behivour with others they give all respect to evey one , they won’t think indian are foreign but unfortunately media either india are foreign not giving importance about this beautiful country to visit every one . regarding safety some croudy places may be pickpocketers problem arise this is not in all only populated cites that’s in railway station Most rush areas if person takes care there is nothing to be done .

Not good for all community.

Aptly said…in fact you gave a realistic picture of India as a country. It is pretty better in safety compared to the other countries in the subcontinent

Stop being bias Hemendra Singh Patel

Reading your reply it shows that you are a bias Indian trying to defend his country without knowing much about other countries.

1. Gun problem is typically a US problem. Saying that most nations are fighting this problem shows your ignorancy about other countries. 2. The problem is you don’t see it from a tourist’s point of view. Depending on where, you are literally harrased every few minutes from people asking money, wherever you go prices are more than actual prices, same for taxis and such… Ofc you’ll never experience this as a local. 3. Are you living under a rock if you seriously think there hasn’t been terrorist attacks in the last 20 years? The 2008 attack on Mumbai was so horrible why would you pretend it never happen. While I agree that many countries are more at risk, we can’t say that India outside J&K is completely safe. That’s a lie. 4. Women safety is not a world issue. Go to most european countries. Go to Scandinavia. People over there will laugh at your ignorant statement. You just can’t deny the number of rape and sexual agressions. Well-behaved or not, numbers don’t lie… 5. Population cannot be an excuse. China has around the same population but it is way more safe for tourists.

safest place in the world

Everything said in this page is wrong, India is one of the safest places in the world. first rape and other sexual assault has been going down for 12 years straight now and mugging is not a problem. Terriosim is a very small risk but still it is a risk but very little. if you go to India theirs almost no chance of being the victim of a terrorist attack. transportation is mainly safe but i will say India is very corrupt its also very cheap which is good for you. honestly its the perfect place to visit theirs so many things to do. you will probably hear a lot about dont travel to the Pakistan boarder but actually theirs a bunch of festivals and gatherings at the boarder and its perfectly safe. India is extremely safe period.

Do not visit unless you want to catch a third world undiscovered disease

Ignorance is bliss, clearly.

Racist much?

No racism in her comment, but I didn't see anyone get sick.

Wait. Did Magdelena write anything about race? This fake “wokeness” is getting too thick. She said nothing about race, she commented on the liklihood of getting sick, which I might add is quite low, because of all of the vaccinations one needs to get before visiting India. I had a great time (2016) and did not witness anyone getting sick, but I did see several people who were carrying guns and they were not police. With the prevalence of guns in the US, it might not surprise you to know many people like me are tuned to be able to spot someone with a concealed weapon. I spotted several while in India. I minded my own business and had lots of fun. India not dangerous for me, but I could see how a woman might be intimidated in some situations there more so than in most countries.

Now get lost

We are very happy that you won’t visit, we have enough chutiye as it is. India is as safe as you want it to be. Don’t be stupid and you’ll have the best time of your life, but that’s applicable for the entire planet, not just India.

You are Just Idiots. Most Corona cases are in USA and even after so much Population less number of cases

What does that have to do with it?

What does COVID-19 have to do with traveler safety in India? Did you post to the wrong thread or something?

You must be Pakistani

India is Safe, cultured and friendly

There is no such issue. How surprising, people in India have fear from law and order. they care of safety, food and life much more than any European or American now. So, no such thing happens. Yes, of course wherever this happens are not tourist or general place to visit by tourist or normal Indians even. India is safe to travel in night even. Roads are much better now in past 5-6 years. Everything is online and record of booking and can be shared with any of your known. Every genuine travel co. is on apps enabled with police alerting system. Everyone in India will tell you where to go if you want some such adventure. That is for Indians themselves as well. But no one will kill you.

SO RUDE!!!!!!!

Historically, most epidemics have started in European countries due to the terrible sanitation systems and the high population density in their overcrowded cities (Smallpox plague spread through North America by colonizers). I hope you’re trying to be sarcastic, because I’m not. Not talking about Covid, but a high population density OVERALL does not equate “third world undiscovered disease”, and it definitely does not equate ignorance, that mantle is held firmly by Internet users and review posters.

Safe, but not completely safe.

I would not say it is the safest place in the world, but it is relatively safe to travel there. Pickpockets are there, and it does have quite a few common scams in the busy district of India, such as a bird poop scam, in which they often deliberately spill poop on your shoes without you noticing, then pretend that they are the good ones, helping you clean your shoe up. Afterwards, they charge crazy prices for your cleaning after they are done. Terrorism may happen here as well, but I bet it is quite rare in India. What I don’t exactly agree with you is the sexual assault. India is a place where you have to be wary. Avoid going to dimly lit areas because that’s where most prey. Other than that, enjoy your trip to India. Have been there thrice, and will do it again.

obviously Indian ppl care too much abt their country image and try to defend whenever and wherever possible–it only tells me one thing–their lack of confidence and eagerness of getting acknowledge and accepted

ye paka pakistani hai… m sure!!!

Says the well-behaved Indian ^

As an Indian I observed how chinese media loves to portray India as the worst place possible yet Chinese are among the top five countries which visit India so you enjoy living in your small bubble of ignorance. It would be better for us.

Stop being bias

Anonymous, your reply made no sense. Chinese are not even top 10 countries that visit india the most. Most are from the US, UK, Bangladesh, Canada, Nepal. And what that shows is they are probably Indians visiting their relatives in India… Your comment just proved the point of the OP.

Unsafe for attractive women

Don’t go as an attractive American female. You’ll be harassed, yelled at, followed and in fear.

You can’t wear normal American attire. You can’t even go to a bar and drink without being physically intimidated or even mildly assaulted as a woman. You can’t go to any tourist attraction without being consistently bombarded and scammed. You’ll spend weeks sick to your stomach. I’ve traveled all over the world and never felt more unsafe than when in India.

I’ve seen men beat women openly in public with the police onlooking and not caring; I’ve seen an older orphan beat a toddler until his head split open and the police told me not to try to stop it, that this is how it’s supposed to be. The men are the most sexually aggressive of any country I’ve ever been to and won’t take no for an answer, and that says a lot.

I’ve been to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, and felt less threatened as a woman in all three. I’m not a tourist with a bad attitude, I opened an entire office in India with hundreds of employees and lived there for 6 months while doing so. It was quite possibly the worst human rights violation I’ve ever witnessed.

Equal rights are not a thing

People who think women’s basic rights are safe in India are blind to a growing problem of epic proportions. I’ve seen too much documented proof to believe that India is just as safe, as say, Norway, for the female traveler.

+BN yes violence is not nice and the police should be more vigilant when they see things like that but if by ‘normal american attire’ you mean skimpy/tight clothes and mini skirts drinking in a country where girls wear long shalwar kameez and dupaatas on their heads and don’t leave the house without their fathers/brothers/husbands so men don’t have a chance to raise an eyebrow or harass them then i would also be ashamed of you if i saw you like that. even women TV presenters wear a headscarf when they visit countries where women cover their hair to show respect. and seriously go sort out your abusive, racist president before talking about a country that was divided, scammed and robbed of for years by all of u ppl in exchange for your bloody alcohol and is now a third world country. and who said you are ‘attractive’?????? maybe in fifty kilos of makeup (that one of the 60,000,000 child laborers in india has mined minerals for in tunnels to put in your lipsticks) learn some manners.

…okay calm down…

You are not talking about India, women do not need anyone’s permission do go anywhere unless they are Muslim. Islam is one of many religions in India, do not give an unnecessary impression of an Islamic country. In general, if you are planning to visit a country, try to respect local customs. If you are not interested in understanding other cultures then there is very little point in your being here, and India already has enough people as it is. You are free to wear what you please as long as it is legal, but if you have noticed that people around you dress more conservatively, then you can’t with any conviction complain about the amount of attention you draw when you are aware why you are drawing it. Tourist scams are a thing, the exchange rate is so high that tourists don’t notice when they are being overcharged and they get taken advantage of at times. It is better to travel in a group, and bars in India are as unsafe as they are all over the world.

As for the violence you are talking about, I’ve lived 20 years in India and never seen anything like it, and I don’t even live in a “safe area”. Granted, some people engage in violence. That is rare, and rarer in India than its occurence worldwide.

It seems you open your office right in the middle of Wasseypur. I’ve never seen the amount of crime you’ve seen in just 6 months, that’s got be a record. The point about children spilitting each other’s heads open was a nice one, did you take video? The amount of BS you’ve written is insane’. There are some parts of the country that are definitely bad, and it seems you chose those exact places for some odd reason. Can’t blame a stupid person for being stupid.

DONT GO THERE I got robbed 3 times when I only went there only for 3 days just to visit the mosque and I am an American.

Danger country in the would

Yes , I am agree with you and I am live in India from birth , I am also some experience.

I think you travelled to Pakistan and mistakenly writing about India 😂😂🍌🍌

Rapist/Goons\uneducTed/ uncuvilized/castesystem/ poverty/overpopulation

Lets face the truth my fellow Indians, India is very unsafe for its own ppl too. My gf from germany visited india and was harassed to almost mentally raped level.

An Honest Reply to this Comment.

I have to write this reply to clear others’ misconceptions (most of them). and mind you… I’m not writing this to save my country’s image and “eagerness to get acknowledged and accepted”.

I’ll be honest with you all.

First, you tell me, if you could… How many places have you and your “gf” visited in India?

1. I do accept the point of overpopulation, but hardly any few places are there where you’ll be choked to death (***sarcasm if you didn’t get***).

2. According to you, if you’re considering a person “not knowing English” as uneducated, then… my boy… I’ll have to assume that, you’ve never visited any European countries (except the UK ofc).

3. Rapes and goons… well tbh, rapes cases happen in India in a significant amount. so for that one, I’ll recommend taking extra care while visiting any places. But goons?? are you that “popular/demanded to be dead” person? if you’ve faced any cases of goons (I’m assuming your life got threatened multiple times)… I think because of the naiveness you’ve got from fake news on the internet, any person got impatient and wanted you to be dead (***sarcasm again***). but tbh…. I’ve hardly seen any goons cases in both mainstream media (authorized) and in my personal life.

4. Uncivilized (pls improve your chatting/typing skills)… now I don’t know where’ve you went for tourism, or lived? If you think most of the people around you are uncivilized… nothing to say, teach your “elite” standard of living to your “uneducated” people in those countries where your concept of “being civilized” is accepted by most of the people there. Here, people will live their lives according to their lifestyle and livelihood… and yeah… different countries have their own culture… tourism is meant to know and experience those different cultures and lifestyle apart from their own. (that’s one of the basic things you should know if you’re touring).

5. Caste system… yeah. This happens but not in all places. you’ll see this in rural and few town areas of the northern region in India (states like UP). but it doesn’t make sense how this integral matter (poverty point too) of our country will affect any other’s tourism…

Female traveler alert

yes thats my experience as a female traveler from North Asia I tend to wear trousers and t shirts when sightseeing which isnt generally considered skimpy. Even when travelling with groups, the women with us would get harassed constantly by the local men. It was just shocking and stressful.

She lives in India, dude.

It is getting worse with Hindu Nationalism on the rise.

Yeah, right.

Sure. Hindu extreme terrorists are destroying all sense of safety you could feel in your home. Do try to sound less ridiculous next time.

Muslims are the problem

LOL, tell me one hindu terrorist group in the world.. everywhere Muslims make the mess. Now, enough, hindus have started countering terrorist Muslims.

India is unsafe place for woman to travel alone or in small group

Come on I haven’t been to Norway , but been to Dubai, London ,Toronto and all are way safer than India especially Haryana and Delhi are most unsafe for woman to travel alone even in day.I have heard so many cat calls and rowdy behavior in India.No need to sugar coat the fact.India is possibly worst place for woman to visit

Yes, our country is not the most safest for women. I would not recommend visiting rural areas as it is more unsafe there, most of the urban areas with the exception of Delhi are very safe for everyone. Just be sure to not get out of your way to cause trouble and mostly youd be ok!

Safety precautions

India is not safe as everywhere in the world.As a foreigner u need to take a little more precaution and do a little homework before u go there. Book a decent 4 or 5 * international chain hotel and u will be safe.As for taxis and tuk tuks, u cannot trust them better hire a uber or ola .Or ask the hotel for advice.As for the food u just have to check inside the restaurant if u fund it clean . Or u can eat in food courts or take rooms with kitchenette where u can prepare ur own.If u want a budget hotel better book with Airbnb i think they r more reliable.Hope this helps.

Update this page !!

This page is not factually correct LGBTQ is now legal in India and corruption in India has decreased considerably. I have gone with friends who are white women and who were safe throughout their trip. Be cautious as when travelling to every country.

This website is a shit

This is a soo biased website that it says Honduras and El Salvador are safer than India shame on them

yes, I agree with you, because they haven’t updated the things in ages. they have given terrorism as high. Can you please help me with the last terrorist attack in a public place that has casualties except for J&K as scenario it is different and Tourist and normal ppl(Indians) are not allowed to go as of now

How can you exclude terrorist in J&K? The rating is for the entire country and terrorist is indeed high.

The meaning of travel safety has changed in 2020.

if you’re a woman or muslim don’t go

Uhh, 15% of India is Muslim. That’s 196, 374, 000 people. Please elaborate. Women’s safety is dubious in rural regions if they are alone, but travel with just one more person and use your wits to avoid falling into exchange-rate scams. You’ll be fine. Or not.

Wrong Information by website

Who wrote this poppycock ? Surely this person never visited India !! Terrorism is high in India😂😂 Women Traveler’s risk is High 😂😂 The person writing this is High I guess 🙄🤔

Women Traveler’s risk IS high in India.

And if I say about Woman safety – As per NCRB REPORT 2019 1. Over 4 lakh reported cases of crimes against Women 2. 32,033 Rape cases reported (in 2019) So, you decide yourself, you high or the writer high?

That didn’t happen to tourists in india. Also police would support u better if u are a tourist. Even in Jammu where terrorism is high it don’t happen to tourists they literally have so much respect for tourists there.

So you’re saying those things don’t happen? Maybe you want us to come so you can harass the women and scam everyone.

Generally Speaking,India is one of the safest country in the world crime rates are low but serious security crime is rare in India.

Best joke of 2020 😂😂😂

Amazing + PKMKB

The country and it’s people are amazing. Do a bit of research and the scenery will blow your mind. South India is better.

Just stay away from Pakistan border region like Kashmir and you are safe. Really sad what radical islamic insurgency from Pakistan has turned this place into.

Terrorism is non-existent in India now (besides Kashmir valley), women’s safety is a major priority now. Some parts of the country, including parts of Delhi can be considered unsafe but what country doesn’t have such parts? If you use your brain, you will alright.

Delh is unsafe because haryana and UP are its neighbouring states

This does not reflect the India I know. Almost all people you’ll meet are very friendly and hospitable. Simply follow some basics

1. If eating street food: Make sure food is made freshly for you. It should be sizzling hot, Avoid the side salads and ice in drinks Keep to bottled water for drinking n brushing

2. When travelling: Inform hotel or relatives of journey. Use Uber and Ola, most others will charge more. Apply common sense on security of valuables. Hire a driver for the whole day or the entire trip.

3. Sight seeing: Check your guide is an official one. Book excursions with hotel or an agency. Do not give alms to beggars (organised crime).

Overall advice, be vigilante, be sensible but above all enjoy yourself (simple really).

India is Best country in world to visit. People are friendly , World class infrastructure ,4G internet , 3, 5 Star hotel’s Restaurants in every city. Indian food is best in World. From last 10 yrs no terrorist attacks. Everyone is safe here. No serious crimes.

one of best country in the world, where I went, lots of love from pakistan

one of the best country in the world, where I went, lots of love from Pakistan

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO WRONG

THIS ARTICLE IS SOOO WRONG, I VISITED INDIA AND HAD NO PROBLEM AT ALL Please actually visit India and see how safe the is !!!!!!!!!!!

Just mind your own business, stay quiet, and avoid any topics related to religion, caste, and politics … you will be on the safe side.

And if I say about Woman safety – As per NCRB REPORT 2019 1. Over 4 lakh reported cases of crimes against Women 2. 32,033 Rape cases reported (in 2019) So, you decide yourself.

144,300 in USA. and India has 1.4 billion people the USA has 332 million. so the USA has almost 5 times more rape cases per million citizens.

Not too safe

This article is literally a joke.

India is the most unsafe country to live. One of the minsters in india said if girls(tourists) don’t want to get molested they shouldn’t wear revealing clothes. This country is disgusting.

Seriously! , India is unsafe just because some rubbish politician said like that. You are too dumb to if you are believing a single word from a politician. It could be due to the low class mentality or maybe just a publicity stunt to become popular. Yes, people here from 2 tier cities are of conservative thinking. But people in big cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Kolkata they do wear like you said revealing clothes and believe me no one bothers.

Haryana, UP, Bihar, Rajasthan are dustbins of India. Delhi is unsafe for women because Haryana and UP are its neighbouring states

Haryana is a million times safer than Delhi.

OMG is its safer than the united states. this country is like our unsafest city st louis

India not safer than St Louis

Wow. India is a way more dangerous place than St Louis, but I still found India quite safe. But then I’m a 6’3″ 250lb well-muscled man; I don’t even get hassled as a white guy in Zimbabwe.

But I have to ask…you really think St. Louis is “our unsafest city”? Ever been to Baltimore? Yes, St. Louis is not exactly “posh” compared to almost anywhere else in the US, but it really is not unsafe unless you walk around shouting racial slurs in North County. In case you couldn’t tell, I’ve lived in St Louis…didn’t stay long…but still longer than my time in India.

As an Indian who lived in St Louis its really scary especially living closeby to a bad neighbourhood, it was kind of scary as I have literally never heard gunshots in my life and it felt like I was going to die right there.. not to say I have been so close to being mugged…

Jesus Christ yes. The USA is so f… up. But thank god they got rid of trump in the dump!

The good, the bad and the ugly

Poor, filthy and over priced. Scammers everywhere in big cities. Not safe at all for foreign women, lot of sexual harassment if not properly taken care of. Though the food was good but the hygiene was very poor. Ahmedabad is my favorite city and hate Mumbai. Delhi had some awesome food.

Full of rapists, scammers and filthy unwashed people. Also they will greet you while pooping on the street. Yuck.

Allegedly Good.

You should avoid getting raped, this can range from getting raped with a rod, or penis. Better have a pepper spray with you all the time. Also, scammers have their ears raised all the time, hunting for rich white tourists. Religion can be the cause of trouble too. If you’re a Muslim, better not get lynched publicly. Also, don’t get very honest about the ground realities in India, or they’ll call you a “Pakistani Agent” or “Anti-national”. Hindutva Terrorism risk is quite high too, so is the transport risk. Other than these very minor things which are part of any civilized and highly evolved society, India is an extremely safe and tolerant country ☺

Such a foolish and 3rd grade observation. There is no Hindutva terrorism and no one calls you by religion or country. Locals know their culture better than your observation and System know their law and authority to safe guard foreigners. People are supportive to keep you safe and sound. No one cheats you until you yourself get into such groups or places. And that is same for Indians as well. But they will not kill you. Indians have fear of law and order. System and transport and Roads are developed in past 5-6 years like anything.. Everything is online and through internet to connect to govt system. No one can guarantee about scammers though all over the world. But all genuine travelers, Taxi, Air, Train system is well connected now and even connected to police station and Safety system now. All Indians know what is good and bad in taste for their own safety. So, it can be told to tourist as well.

India safe? No, but it's better then it was.

India has been improving in recent decades but make no mistake, it’s still third world. You can see incredible wealth and even more incredible poverty all in the span of a few minutes. It’s a beautiful country, but many have no problems trying to rip you off.

I go to Goa at least once a year, but occasionally go to other parts of the country as well. My company (I work for, not own) does a lot of business in New Delphi, but I try to avoid it like that plague. I much prefer the smaller villages/towns over the massive cities.

Almost everywhere you go, you’ll see a great number of people.

if you say terrorism risk in india is very high tell me how much last year terrorist attack in india and he had captured the tourist or indian people if you really want india visit india

“Transport and Taxis Risk: Keep in mind that driving is dangerous because of poor road conditions and the fact that India follows the left-hand driving system.”

What nonsense. I’m willing to believe that road conditions are probably poor, but SURELY the taxi drivers are used to the ‘left-hand driving system’ and have probably spent their whole adult life driving on the left!

Lovely Place to Visit

India is such a good country to visit. Lots of amazing food and places to visit. It’s also getting better. It has improved a lot over the past few years. You should go to india

India is more Secure I have visited plenty of countries like USA, Canada, China but I feel India is Safe Like other countries you Can Enjoy Here

Don’t visit India if you think its not safe for you. Simple.

Hi. I’m Iranian and love India. Visit India soon but i can’t create in bank cuz i’m Iranian :/

Way better than it used to be

I felt safer here than when I visited in the 90s, things have changed drastically. Yes, you still have the occasional petty crimes but if you’re careful and avoid flashing your wallet’s content you will be ok. Plan your daily routes using popular locations, going off track might set you up for a meeting with a desperate mugger.

hindutva fanatism on raise

Current political business by ruling party and other hindu facts : Hate speec, multiple agressions against minorities, communal hatred, religiosity In the last 7 years and particularly in the last 3 years, multiple lynching of muslims and dalit hindus and christians. Beware those people with white skin are considered ‘ Christians ‘ and those with beards and scarfs as mulsims.

I agree…India is quite safe I feel India is Safe Like other countries you Can Enjoy Here Lovely Place to Visit India is such a good country to visit. Lots of amazing food and places to visit. It’s also getting better. It has improved a lot over the past few years. You should go to india

India is no more safe country tnx to Hindutawa

The most important reason is the Hindutva policies of the Modi government. local roits out break there in most area of the country india. For a long time me Hindutva on the peak in India with the advent of Modi government. Not only with Sikhs and Muslims but also Hindu and now Christians rights are not safe in India. The ratio of rape cases are increased at dangerous level, to elaborate this is enough to write that an old age will women about 90 years has been gang rapped in India few days ago. The video of a Hindu boy is viral in which he cuts the girl’s throat in front of his family in past week in the shade of hindutawa,,, just bcz he failed to win the love of that girl.. Tourist are not safe there also bcz of the security is only in the eyes of the media of india but not in the reality. Kashmir issue and khalistan issue has gained more power and danger of local roits no one can deny this…

India is a Safest country

India is a safest country. There is no doubt about it. As Indians are facing too many issues in america and other countries. India is a safest country

Safe Place, just use common sense and try to respect local tradition and blend in

I visited Chennai, Tanjore, Trichy, Kozhikode, Kovalam, Wayanad, Munnar and a few more places in Kerala during September 2018 along with my family. I can throw some light on a few aspects :

1. Transport – We only used Cab (OLA ?) so I cant speak about public transit. But we did try the metro in Chennai and it was exactly like here in DC but much more clean. I don’t know who would accept food and drinks from strangers anywhere so that point doesn’t make sense.

2. Pickpockets – Cant comment on this but I did carry cash everywhere and I was fine. I never used any coins and the currency is very similar, just round off everything to the nearest 10. This honestly seems so minor but I would suggest keeping any important IDs like passport in a Hotel or something if you are worried.

3. Terrorism – I did some reading on this while planning for the trip, apparently most of the terrorism is concentrated in the northern areas and its pretty much non-existent anywhere else. Honestly I am more scared of mugging and homeless shootings here in DC.

4. Natural Disaster – India is such a big country and this is something that can happen anywhere anytime. Unless you are travelling to say Japan this entire section is ridiculous. It rained and there was water everywhere but never enough to cause a problem.

5. Risk for women – This seems to be the most debated issue. There were a lot of stares but NO ONE misbehaved inappropriately. Again, we have a lot of experience travelling abroad and we do our best to dress conservatively and not stand out in a crowd.

My overall take is to just use common sense and respect the local customs. India is a conservative place so don’t go running around in swimsuits. Its not our place to question if its right or wrong just respect the local tradition and blend in as much as possible. We were planning a second trip to Delhi. Agra, Leh etc. last year but you know what happened !

Poor and developing country usally safe for travelling.

India is a diverse country. So there is a high chance you will end up unfollowing societal and cultural practices and could cause trouble to yourselfs. Better use an authorised Tourist Guide if you are concerned of safety while travelling in India even though the country is generally Safe.

(Disregard my rating but do read my opinion)

The most common myth about India is that crimes against women are frequent. People should know that safety level is judged by crime rate (i.e., per capita) and not by total number of occurrences. There are certainly discriminations against women, especially in rural India, but women are no way in a disadvantageous position in urban India than anywhere else in the world. (we know there is underreporting and the ideal rate should be zero but one cannot simply inflate the figure to suit one’s narrative.)

Further, although petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft are common, violent crimes are rare. If you know the things to avoid while in the country, you can enjoy your time very much. All you need is to ask someone from your circle and your country what are things to be cautious about.

the hindu terrorism is increasing. People of other religions like muslims, sikhs and christians are in danger if living or traveling in India.

Indian delights

Most guys in India don`t respect women, that`s the problem. We travelled a lot in India as two always very decently dressed women and we felt harassed in most cities except Kerala. we truly not recommand you to travel in India as a woman.Even with men`s companion people widely dont hesitate to bother you, may be beggars or shopkeepers. Its very exhausting. The other issue is, that India is a very, very dirty country and most people don`t care about cleanliness and hygiene, especilly the toilets are unexplically dirty and no wonder the food is also unsafe. So travel in India is really an experience far from safety! If you want to enjoy indian culture, you better go to Mauritius or Singapur!

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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India is the biggest country in South Asia and a place that is impossible to forget. Sumptuous cuisine, iconic landmarks, and a diverse mix of cultures are just some of the reasons millions of tourists flock to its bustling metropoles and sultry shores each year. It’s also the largest democracy in the world with the second biggest population and one of the cheapest places to live, but you might be wondering, is India safe? 

Over one billion people call India home and the rich mix of cultures and religions is what makes it so unique and enthralling. Yet, India’s reputation has been tainted by terrorism, sexual violence, and extreme poverty. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t visit, but there are some precautions you can take before heading off to the subcontinent of Asia.

From the transport to the tap water, our guide outlines all the dangers of traveling to India in 2022 so you can ensure your trip is a problem-free one. Let’s get into it. 

Table of Contents

Is India safe to visit?

India has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is one of the fastest developing countries too, making its bustling cities alluring in themselves. Nevertheless, a weak currency, oversized population, and poor access to resources in vast rural regions have led to a poverty crisis, which has a direct impact on crime and personal security.

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Two-thirds of the Indian population is estimated to live below the poverty line, surviving on just $2 a day or less, while 30 percent live on half of this. India might be cheap, but this doesn’t make individual economic crises any easier to bear. Although being poor is no crime, in India it can be and condemn individuals to a life of suffering and hardship.

Impoverished families need children to work from a young age instead of going to school, and a lack of education and employment opportunities is closely linked to crime. Poverty itself is also tied to violence, criminal damage, and drug use, and India demonstrates some of the highest crime rates in the world in some sectors, which are only on the rise. 

India was deemed the most dangerous country for women in 2018, beating Afghanistan, Saudi Arabic, Syria, Somalia, and Yemen to the top spot thanks to shocking sexual crime rates. Slave labor and human trafficking are rife in India and gender discrimination, harassment, lack of education, dowry-related objectification, and a gender pay gap remain everyday issues for the women of the country. But what does this all mean for your upcoming vacation?

Despite high crime rates, India is considered mostly safe for tourists and violent crimes against foreigners is actually very uncommon. Petty theft can be an issue, especially in touristy areas, and low standards of safety and hygiene mean it can be easy to get sick or be at risk of an accident, but there are ways to avoid these things. 

There is still ongoing civil unrest in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, and terrorism remains a risk. Nevertheless, most areas demonstrate relatively low crime rates, especially those frequented by foreigners, and there’s no reason to feel unsafe in India as long as you exercise precautions.

Is India safe for solo travelers?

India is one of the most exciting backpacker destinations in the world and it’s no surprise that millions of tourists are drawn to its magical culture, festivals, food, and sites every year. Solo traveling in India can be problem-free, especially if you’re following a planned route and meeting like-minded people on the way. Still, India has a dubious reputation as a destination for solo female travelers and women will need to take some extra safety precautions. 

The vibrant coastal region of Goa with its golden beaches and party atmosphere is the safest place for females in the country and women shouldn’t feel threatened traveling here alone. The same goes for some of the Himalayan regions like Sikkim in the eastern portion of the mountain range. Meaning ‘abode of God’ the untouched surroundings, floral summers, snowy winters, and Buddhist culture make it the perfect place for some enlightening solo travel. 

However, the sweaty city of Delhi, and the state of Rajasthan on the whole, are ranked as some of the least safe places for women in the world. While violent crimes against women are less likely to affect foreigners, unwanted attention, harassment, abuse, and hostility will and can make these destinations less than appealing for solo females.  

The truth is, most women traveling in India won’t face any aggressive behavior. Invasive looks and unwanted attention are common, but if you can turn a blind eye, you shouldn’t have any issues. Traveling with at least one companion is always better, but India has a vibrant backpacker community with plenty of safe and welcoming hostels that make meeting like-minded individuals easy for solo travelers. 

Is transport safe in India?

It’s just as much about the journey as it is the destination in India. Local transport options come in all shapes and sizes and experiencing your fair share of rickshaw rides and overnight trains is all part of the adventure. 

When it comes to personal security, pickpockets and money scams will be your biggest concern. Petty criminals operate on trains and busses wherever you go, but especially in the big cities, and it’s not uncommon for your taxi or tuk-tuk driver to try and rip you off when they can see you are a tourist. Always agree on a price beforehand. For example, it shouldn’t cost much more than 10 rupees per kilometer to travel by tuk-tuk, if not slightly more in touristy destinations. It’s important to know your stuff as a foreigner.  

Tuk-tuks and mopeds are open-air vehicles so always keep your belongings close to your person and zipped away to avoid snatch and grab theft. Better yet, leave as many valuables as you can back at your accommodation as you can never tell who’s in reach in the traffic-choked lanes and crowded streets. 

Overnight trains and buses can come with more serious risks, especially if you’re traveling alone as a female, but the same goes for anywhere else in the world. Consider traveling with a companion if your moving around at night or opt for private transportation like taxis over busses and trains if you’re only going a short distance. 

Human dangers aren’t the only concern when it comes to getting around India. Due to poor road conditions and relaxed driving laws, it’s not safe to navigate roads by yourself and you should always think twice about venturing off the beaten track. We don’t recommend hiring your own vehicle as the way Indians drive will be a shock. Leave it down to your driver and always wear your seatbelt if there is one. 

Is it safe to drink tap water in India?

If there’s one thing you take away from this guide, it’s that tap water in India is not safe for drinking. The mere mention of drinking from the tap here is enough to give foreigners Delhi belly , and you’re certain to have heard horror stories of ingested water and violent food poisoning. 

The truth is, it might not be as horrific as you think and filter taps are widely accessible across the country. Still, as a rule of thumb, you never want to drink straight from a tap without checking.

Water pipe infrastructure is not up to European standards and old, leaking pipes, leeching materials, and poor water storage tanks cause contamination before the water reaches the tap. Both Mumbai and Delhi have invested in water treatment systems in recent years so that millions of Indians can get direct access to clean water in their homes and Mumbai tap water is supposedly safe for drinking as of this year. Still, we wouldn’t advise travelers to be drinking it just yet. 

Water pipe networks are still old and decaying, even in Mumbai, and after water treatment plants have done their thing, there’s no saying that the water won’t be contaminated on the way to the tap. And outside these major cities, there’s little to no treatment to start with. 

You can brush your teeth with the water in big cities, as long as you don’t ingest it, but we’d recommend using filter water or bottled water if you’re in a more rural setting or on overnight transport. Locals might do it, but as a foreigner, your body won’t be used to the change.  

Is India safe from natural disasters?

Unfortunately, crime and hygiene won’t be your only concerns in India. While these other issues are easier to avoid, to an extent, one thing you’ll have no control over is the weather. In fact, India is one of the most disaster-prone countries globally and, no thanks to its location and geography, it’s vulnerable to cyclones, droughts, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, wildfires, and avalanches. 

With such vast and diverse landscapes, India is at risk of all the wild tropical weather of other South Asian nations, with the treacherous mountain conditions of the northern Himalayas thrown in. India’s rainy season, or monsoon season, can be much worse than in neighboring backpacker countries. Some areas are completely off-limits in the summer due to heavy rains. The earth, which is very dry and baked from the scorching Spring sun, cannot cope with the sudden torrents. Flooding, landslides, and widespread disruption is an annual occurrence, and visitors should rethink heading to areas where the monsoons hit especially badly at this time, such as the states in the Northeast like Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. 

The Deccan Plateau to the east of the Ghats mountain range, chilly Ladakh in the far north, and the desert state of Rajasthan receive the least amount of rain but still experience their highest temperatures at this time of year. 

There hasn’t been a tsunami in India since the devastating Boxing Day event of 2004 which killed more than 230,000 across 14 countries, originating from a quake off the northern tip of Indonesia’s Sumatra. Yet, much like many South Asian countries on the Indian Ocean, India remains at risk, especially on the Western Coast where little developmental preparation is thought to have been taken. Regions in the east such as Puri, Kakinada, Machilipatna, Chennai, Kochi, and more are also vulnerable to an Arabian Sea tsunami. 

Little can be done to prepare for the eventuality of a mass-natural disaster. However, you can stay up to date with meteorological reports and news reports from within India and around the world to get an advance warning on your trip. Avoid isolating yourself for too long or going off the beaten track where cell service is disconnected or emergency services cannot reach and stick to drier areas if you’re visiting in monsoon season.   

7 Safety Tips for India

• Try to fit in – There’s not much chance that you’ll be able to hide the fact you’re a foreigner in India, and this quickly makes you much more vulnerable to theft and scams. But you can try to blend in and look more comfortable rather than naive. Try to wear similar clothes to the locals, respect the culture, and leave the flip-flops and fanny packs at home.
• Carry your address – It’s easy to get lost in any new place, especially in India’s hectic cities. Luckily, there are plenty of private transport options to use but make sure you bring the address of your lodgings out with you to show to the tuk-tuk and taxi drivers to make sure you get home.
• Leave valuables – Prevention is always better than the cure. Rather than trying not to get pickpocketed, leave all the valuables that you can’t hide on your person at home. That means bringing out only small amounts of cash, a photocopy of your passport, and leaving the big camera at home. 
• Check the weather – Even in the dead of summer, your day could be spoiled in an instant by torrential downpours and even flash flooding. Avoid rural areas if the weather looks dubious and always dress appropriately for the climate. That means wearing plenty of sunscreens, staying hydrated, and also having a raincoat handy. 
• Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations – Much of India is still in civil unrest and protests can turn ugly very quickly. Terrorist groups are also more likely to target large gatherings so try and keep your vacation to just that, rather than political activism. 
• Don’t travel alone at night – India is great for solo travel and brave independent backpackers shouldn’t be scared off. However, certain areas, especially the big cities and even coastal party towns, have a dark side at night and it is best to walk around with a companion or take private transport.
• Stick to your limits – India has a great nightlife scene and the party hotspots on the coast are some of the safest places in the country. Still, things can turn soar when alcohol is involved and you never want to lose sense of your surroundings in a foreign country. Know your limits, never accept drinks from strangers, and don’t leave drinks unattended wherever you are. 

Is Mumbai safe?

As a huge and populous city, crime levels in Mumbai can be high and it comes with some safety risks for foreigners. Still, petty theft and money scams are the most common crimes encountered by visitors and these can be avoided by being extra careful with valuables. It’s not recommended to travel alone at night or use public transport after dark but Mumbai is still considered a good place for solo travel. 

When is the best time to visit Delhi?

The best time to visit Delhi is between October and March when the flora and fauna are in full bloom, the weather is warm but not sweltering, the monsoon season has finished and you can enjoy all the sites and experiences at ease. 

What should I avoid in India?

India is a diverse country with varied cultures and a welcoming population. Still, there are some things you can avoid to steer clear of unwanted attention or disrespecting people. Don’t wear tight or overly-revealing clothing, unless you’re by the beach. Always take off your shoes inside unless permitted to do otherwise by your host. Never point your feet or fingers at people out of respect. Try not to eat food or pass objects with your left hand when dining with locals. And never act rude or rowdy in the streets, or any place for that matter, especially religious sites. 

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India Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 23, 2023, india - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

Do not travel to:

• The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
• Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .

Country Summary : Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has occurred at tourist sites and in other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19.  Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

• Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
• Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for India.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

Travel Advisory Levels

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