Is India Safe? An Intel Analyst's Guide to the Country

India is the world’s most populous country, with over 1.4 billion people and a tapestry of ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups. From the snow-capped Himalayas to tropical southern coasts, its regions are as varied as its people. India’s economic influence is growing rapidly, cementing its status as a business, technology, and tourism hub. 

India attracts millions of business travelers and tourists each year. Yet, for all its vibrancy, India is a complex destination where safety considerations are critical for successful trip. Navigating local risks is essential for both business travelers seeking new markets and tourists eager to explore its heritage. 

This guide, informed by the latest security intelligence, provides an assessment of India’s safety landscape.

India: Overall Threat Assessment

India currently rates as a “Medium Risk” destination. Most travel is possible with routine precautions, but disruptions and security incidents can occur, especially in certain regions. The national security environment is shaped by ongoing tensions with Pakistan, periodic militant attacks, and sporadic civil unrest. The April 2025 terror attack in Kashmir, which killed 28 Indian tourists, triggered a brief military escalation between India and Pakistan, highlighting the volatility of border areas and the need for vigilance in high-risk zones. 

Safety Overview 

Crime Rates 

• Petty crime: Pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and scams are the most common risks for travelers, especially in crowded markets, public transport, and tourist hotspots in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Violent crime, though less frequent, has targeted foreigners in urban centers and some rural areas. 

• Scams: Beware of fake guides, overcharging, and fraudulent travel agencies. Credit card fraud and impersonation of police officers are reported. 

• Metropolitan vs. rural: Major cities see higher rates of theft and harassment, while rural areas may lack adequate policing and emergency response. 

Terrorism, Civil Unrest, and Political Stability 

• High-risk areas: Jammu & Kashmir, parts of the Northeast (Assam, Manipur, Nagaland), and the so-called “Red Corridor” (Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and adjacent states) experience periodic militant and insurgent violence. Attacks often target security forces but have also affected civilians and tourists. 

• Recent developments: After the Pahalgam attack, India and Pakistan engaged in cross-border strikes before a US-brokered ceasefire restored calm. However, the situation remains tense, and further escalations cannot be ruled out. 

• Civil unrest: Protests, strikes, and communal violence can erupt with little warning, particularly during elections or after controversial government actions. 

Government Efforts to Ensure Tourism Safety 

India has established tourist police units in major destinations, 24/7 multilingual helplines, and is investing in technology-led safety measures such as CCTV surveillance and safety apps. Special task forces and protocols for women’s safety are being developed. 

Breaking Down Safety in India by Region

Each region of India has its own specific safety concerns and issues, and some areas should be considered high-risk and not advisable for travel unless absolutely necessary.

Major Tourist Hubs: Quick Safety Notes 

• Delhi: High risk of petty crime and harassment; avoid isolated areas at night. 

• Mumbai: Safer than Delhi but still prone to theft and scams. 

• Bangalore: Generally safe, with occasional protests and urban crime. 

• Jaipur, Agra, Varanasi: Watch for scams and pickpockets at major attractions. 

• Goa: Petty crime and harassment at beaches; heed warnings about swimming and wildlife. 

• Kashmir Valley: Avoid due to ongoing militant activity and travel restrictions. 

Safety Measures and Considerations for Travelers

Your safety needs can change depending on who you are, what you’re doing, and where you’re going in India. The following guidance should help everyone from business travelers to solo backpackers understand the risks of traveling across India.

Common Health Risks and Diseases 

Travelers to India should be aware of several potential health risks that vary by region and season.

Waterborne illnesses such as diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera are common, often resulting from unsafe drinking water and poor food hygiene practices. Vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever are widespread, particularly during and after the monsoon season when mosquito populations surge. In major cities such as Delhi, air pollution can reach hazardous levels, especially in the winter months, posing serious respiratory risks.

Other health concerns include rabies, which can be contracted through bites or scratches from stray animals; Japanese encephalitis, primarily found in rural areas; and ongoing measles outbreaks, which highlight the importance of up-to-date vaccinations before travel.

Vaccinations and Preventive Measures 

Before traveling to India, it’s important to ensure that all routine vaccinations are current, including those for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT), and influenza. In addition to routine immunizations, several other vaccines are recommended depending on the nature and duration of travel. These include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, polio, Japanese encephalitis—particularly for extended stays or travel to rural areas—and rabies for individuals at higher risk of animal exposure. Malaria prophylaxis is also advised for most parts of the country, with the exception of high-altitude regions where the risk is minimal. Proper preparation can significantly reduce the chances of illness while traveling.

Access to Medical Care and Emergency Services 

Safety Measures for Business Travelers 

Transportation Safety 

• Roads: Congestion, poor infrastructure, and erratic driving make self-driving hazardous. Use reputable car services with drivers. 

• Public Transport: Metro systems in major cities are generally safe during the day. Long-distance buses and trains are often overcrowded and may be targets for theft. 

• Air Travel: Reliable but check for disruptions during periods of unrest or adverse weather. Hoax bomb threats are common. 

• Ride-Share: Use official apps or hotel-recommended services; agree on fares in advance. 

Accommodation Safety 

• Hotels: Stick to well-reviewed, established chains or vetted properties, especially in major cities. 

• Remote Areas: Options may be limited; confirm security measures and emergency protocols in advance. 

Safety Measures for Women 

Advice for Women Travelers 

• Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and legs, especially in rural areas and at religious sites. 

• Avoid Isolation: Do not travel alone at night or in deserted areas. 

• Transport: Use women-only compartments or ride services where available. 

• Apps and Helplines: Download safety apps and keep emergency numbers handy. 

• Harassment: Unwanted attention and groping are reported, especially in crowded places. Be assertive and seek help if needed.

Advisories for American Travelers 

• Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
• Know embassy and consulate locations in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
• Keep emergency contacts and travel documents accessible. 

Travel Advisories for India

When reviewing travel advisories for India, it's important to understand the rating system. The U.S. State Department currently, as of this writing, classifies India as Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”) due to risks related to crime and terrorism. However, certain regions—such as Jammu & Kashmir, the Red Corridor, and parts of the Northeast—are designated Level 3 or 4, advising travelers to reconsider or avoid travel altogether.

Always consult the most recent advisories for specific states or territories before your trip.

Reliable Sources 

• U.S. Department of State 

• UK Foreign Office 

• India’s Ministry of Tourism 

• Embassy and consulate websites 

India offers extraordinary experiences for business and leisure travelers, but safety requires proactive planning and situational awareness. Most visits are trouble-free, but risks-especially in certain regions-are real and must be respected. 

Standing by to Support

The Global Guardian team is standing by to support your security requirements. To learn more about our security services, complete the form below or call us at + 1 (703) 566-9463