Summary

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to:

  • the immediate vicinity of the border with Pakistan, other than at Wagah
  • Jammu and Kashmir, except for (i) travel within the city of Jammu, (ii) travel by air to the city of Jammu, and (iii) travel within the Union Territory of Ladakh

The tourist destinations of Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg, the city of Srinagar and the Jammu-Srinagar national highway are within the areas where the FCDO advises against all travel.

For more information, see Local travel and Terrorism

COVID-19 entry restrictions for India

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for India’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

Travelling from and returning to the UK

Check what you must do to travel abroad and return to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.

India is currently witnessing a stable situation in relation to COVID-19 cases across the country.country Pleasethough checksome states have seen a small rise in cases. India’s overall caseload continues to remain low. Check the COVID-19 situation in India before you travel.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has announced the resumption of regular international flights to and from India from 27 March 2022 in light of decreasing cases of COVID-19. This means termination of air bubble arrangements and restoration to the pre-COVID level of services. The full regulations are available from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority India on Twitter. To book tickets and to see important guidance prior to travel you should check airline websites. The British High Commission cannot assist with ticketing. The aviation sector remains unpredictable and is subject to change with short notice. To get the latest information sign up for travel advice email alerts. If you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.

If you’re planning travel to India, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.

Seasonal floods in North-eastern Indian states particularly in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh are disrupting transport and other services. If you are in the affected areas or intend to visit these areas, you are advised to check with the local administration before travelling.

Several Northern and Central Indian states are experiencing severe heatwaves. Heatwaves typically occur between March and June. The extreme temperatures can cause wildfires and power outages. More information and detailed guidance is available on the National Disaster Management Authority website . You should monitor the local and international weather updates from the Indian Meteorological Department , follow the advice of local authorities and your tour company before travelling.

Travel in India during the monsoon season (June to October) can be hazardous. See Monsoons.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO guidance on foreign travel insurance.

For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Coronavirus page.

Over one million British nationals visited India in 2019. Most visits are trouble-free.

Severe air pollution is a major hazard to public health, especially during the winter months. New Delhi and other North Indian cities are currently experiencing extremely high levels of pollution. See Air pollution

Terrorists are very likely to carry out attacks in India. Recent attacks have targeted public places including those visited by foreigners. Media reports suggest Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) and other groups have an interest in attacking targets in India. There may be an increased threat to places visited by British nationals such as religious sites, markets, festival venues and beaches. You should be vigilant at this time, monitor local media and take all precautions for your safety. See Terrorism

Maoist (or Naxalite) insurgents specifically target police officers, paramilitary forces and government officials in parts of India, causing several deaths and injuries in 2019/20. The government of India has identified some districts as the worst affected. See Local travel

You should avoid protests and large gatherings. Stampedes have occurred during some events with large crowds, including at political rallies and religious gatherings, resulting in deaths and injuries. They can happen without warning and occasionally result in disorder. See Political situation

UK health authorities have classified India as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

The Indian Ministry of Tourism has a 24 hour multi-lingual telephone helpline on toll free number 1800 111 363 providing visitors to India with information about travel and tourism.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. Consular support is severely limited in parts of India where the FCDO has existing advice against all travel and all but essential travel (as set out above).