‘Exercise a high degree of caution in India’: Canada issues New travel advisory to its citizens for India
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ September 20,2023
In continuation with expulsion of Indian diplomat, the Canadian government on Tuesday updated its travel advisory asking its citizens to Exercise a high degree of caution in India due to the threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country, Avoid non-essential travel to the following states due to the risk of terrorism and insurgency: Assam, Manipur and avoid all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir “due to the unpredictable security situation”, ramping up a confrontation between the two countries over Canada’s accusations that the Indian government may have been involved in the killing of Khalistan extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June this year.
The latest development comes even as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday demanded that India treat with “utmost seriousness” Canada’s allegations of New Delhi’s possible involvement in the slaying of Nijjar, a concern echoed by Washington.
As per the advisory, the Canadian govt warns its citizens to Avoid all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to the unpredictable security situation. There is a threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest and kidnapping. This advisory excludes travelling to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Avoid all travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Pakistan in the following states due to the unpredictable security situation and presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance: Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan. This advisory excludes the Wagah border crossing.
(Travel Advisory-https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/india)
Safety and security
Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir
The security situation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is tense. There are high risks of violent protests, civil unrest and acts of terrorism and militancy.
Violent clashes between militants and security forces occur regularly. Terrorist attacks against security forces have led to civilian casualties. Further attacks could take place at any time. You could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The Indian army has enhanced powers in this territory. Authorities may impose curfews and security restrictions on short notice.
- Avoid gatherings and demonstrations
- Always carry ID
- Expect a heightened security presence and security checks
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
Border areas with Pakistan
The level of tension between India and Pakistan may change suddenly. You could experience difficulties when travelling between the two countries. You may be subject to scrutiny if officials from either country become aware that you have recently travelled to the other.
The security situation along the border with Pakistan, especially along the Line of Control (LoC), which separates the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh from Pakistan-administered Kashmir, remains volatile. Cross-border gunfire and shelling are occurring sporadically along the LoC. The presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance also constitute a risk.
Although international travellers regularly use the Wagah border crossing linking Amritsar, India, to Lahore, Pakistan, it remains vulnerable to attack. Security measures are in place. You may experience long delays.
Parts of Northeastern India
Several extremist and insurgent groups are active in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur. They regularly target local government and security forces and may use various criminal activities to finance their activities.
Ethnic tensions in the State can also lead to conflict and civil unrest.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in India, particularly in:
- the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir
- the State of Manipur
- the State of Assam
- areas of East India where Naxalites groups are active
Maoist extremist insurgents, known as Naxalites, are responsible for the majority of terrorist attacks in India. These groups are usually based in rural and forested areas within zones of concerns, as defined by the Government of India, which include:
- Andhra Pradesh
- Bihar
- Chhattisgarh
- Jharkhand
- Madhya Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Odisha
- Telangana
- Uttar Pradesh
- West Bengal
Extremist and insurgent groups usually target government and security forces, and sometimes, trains and railway tracks. While tourists are not usually specifically targeted, bystanders could be affected. Be particularly vigilant during election periods and in the lead-up to, and during, religious holidays and times of national significance, such as:
- Republic Day (January 26)
- Eid
- Independence Day (August 15)
- Diwali
Targets of terrorist attacks could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
While in India:
- always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
- if you see a suspicious package, immediately leave the area and report it to authorities
Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Criminals may target foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist areas.
- Be vigilant in all crowded locations
- Don’t carry large sums of money
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
Petty crime frequently occurs on public transportation and overnight trains.
- Ensure that the train compartment contains packages belonging only to you and other occupants
- Store personal belongings in a safe place, and don’t leave the compartment unattended
- Securely lock the doors
Serious crime against foreigners is less frequent, but incidents do occur.
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Scams
Exercise caution in tourist areas and airports where scammers particularly target foreigners.
Scams involving the exportation of jewels, gemstones, carpets, and other items have occurred. Taxi drivers may approach you, offering money to export such items.
- Don’t accept any offer, no matter how convincing
- Beware of offers for cheap transportation or accommodation, extended taxi rides and unsolicited guided tours
Romance scams
If you’re travelling to India to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam.
Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.
Investment scams
Unsolicited emails offering attractive business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent.
Don’t travel to India to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
Women’s safety
Crimes committed against women frequently occur in India. Foreign women are often the target of unwanted attention.
Staring, verbal abuse, groping, and other forms of sexual harassment can occur anywhere, including in tourist sites and areas. Attackers sometimes act as a group.
Reports of rape and assault against foreign women have increased. You should be particularly vigilant:
- in Goa
- in Delhi
- on all forms of public transportation
- at Yoga centres, ashrams and other places of spiritual retreats
Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment.
- Avoid travelling alone, particularly at night
- Be extremely vigilant on public transportation, taxis and auto-rickshaws
- Be careful when dealing with strangers or new acquaintances
- Be wary of accepting snacks or beverages from new acquaintances
- Avoid less populous and unlit areas
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Reach police immediately if you feel threatened
If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and the nearest office of the Government of Canada.
Forced marriages
Forced marriage affecting foreigners occurs, sometimes without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.
Some Canadians have been forced into marital arrangements and have been detained against their will. They have been subjected to threats, intimidation and violence by family members.
If you’re in Canada
If you’re in Canada and you believe that you’re being forced to travel overseas to marry, you should call your local police for assistance.
If you’re in India
If you’re in India and you believe that you’re being forced to marry, contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada. You may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Family members may retain passports to prevent victims from returning to Canada. Keep digital or physical copies of your travel documents in a safe place.
General information and advice about forced marriage
Demonstrations and mass gatherings
Protests in Manipur
Violent demonstrations have been taking place in Manipur State since May 3, 2023, resulting in casualties. Protests have led to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Curfews have been imposed in several districts and mobile and internet services may be limited.
If you are in Manipur:
- monitor local media for the most recent information
- follow the instructions of local authorities
- be prepared to modify your plans in case of disturbances
- expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence
Demonstrations, mass gatherings, general strikes, “bandh” or “hartal,” take place frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Stampedes have occurred during mass gatherings, including religious ceremonies, and resulted in deaths and injuries.
Local authorities may impose curfews and other restrictions on short notice.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including curfews
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Most roads, including major highways, are poorly maintained. There is severe traffic congestion. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season, and some roads can become impassable.
Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They are often aggressive or reckless. Driving can be hazardous due to the presence of livestock or wandering cows, including in urban areas.
Fatal road accidents are frequent. They can lead to mob anger and assault.
- Avoid travelling outside urban centres after dark
- Avoid driving or riding motorcycles in India, even if you are an experienced motorcyclist
- Be very careful when crossing the street, even at pedestrian crossings
- If involved in an accident, contact local authorities immediately
Public transportation
Trains
India has an extensive passenger train system. Rail accidents are common, mostly due to poor maintenance. Thefts are frequent on certain train lines.
Taxis
If you use a taxi, get it from a reputable hotel, an official taxi stand, or a trusted ride-sharing app. At the airport, use officially marked taxis or pre-paid transport services.
- Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged
- Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
- Don’t share taxis with strangers
Maritime transportation
Maritime accidents occur regularly due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels.
- Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
- Always wear a life jacket
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau
Water activities
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.
Beaches are not usually supervised by lifeguards. Many beaches don’t display warnings of dangerous conditions.
- Seek local advice before swimming
- Avoid swimming if red flags are flown
- Avoid swimming during Monsoon season
- Always wear a life jacket if you use a boat or a small embarkation
Trekking
No commercial mountain rescue services are operating above 3,000 metres.
If you intend on trekking:
- never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- ensure that you’re adequately equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
- know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
- obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing may pose risks, particularly on foot or at close range. If you plan on visiting a wildlife area such as a tiger reserve:
- always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
- only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
- only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
- closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice
Large groups of monkeys are present in several parts of India, including some urban regions. Monkeys can get aggressive and rapidly overwhelm travellers in their search for food. They can also steal your belongings.
Be vigilant when in the presence of monkeys.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Information about foreign domestic airlines
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Indian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for 6 months from your date of entry into India and must contain at least two blank pages for use by immigration officials.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourism visa: required
Work visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Ensure you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip. If you are denied entry by immigration officials, you will be returned to your point of departure.
Canadian-Pakistani citizens are subject to different visa application and registration procedures.
You can only stay in India for up to 180 consecutive days on a tourist visa, even when its validity exceeds 180 days.
E-visas
You can apply for certain types of visas online.
Ensure you apply at least 4 days before travelling, and you meet the eligibility requirements. Carry a copy of the e-visa at the time of travel.
E-visas – Government of India
Residency registration
If you stay in India for more than 180 days, you must register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Useful links
- e-FRRO online portal (for Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru) – India’s Bureau of Immigration
- FRRO Contact List – India’s Bureau of Immigration
Penalties for overstaying
Strict penalties are enforced for overstaying. If you overstay, you could be subject to fines, detention and a future travel ban.
If you have overstayed your visa, you must request an exit visa from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). This process can be lengthy.
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Dual citizenship
If you hold an Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card, you must present it upon entry and exit.
Departure
You must present a boarding pass and a photo identification to access airport departure terminals and public areas.
Lost or stolen passport
If your passport is lost or stolen, an exit visa is required to leave India.
To obtain an exit visa, you must present the FRRO with:
- a police report
- two current passport-size photographs
- a letter providing details of the loss or theft from the High Commission of Canada to India in New Delhi or Consulate General of Canada in either Chandigarh or Mumbai
The FRRO will verify the entry details before issuing an exit visa. This process can take several days.
Useful links
- e-FRRO online portal (for Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru) – India’s Bureau of Immigration
- FRRO Contact List – India’s Bureau of Immigration
Restricted and Protected Areas
Special permits are required to visit certain parts of India designated as restricted or protected areas.
Restricted or protected areas – India’s Bureau of Immigration
Poliomyelitis
You may need to produce proof of polio vaccination if you are arriving in India from:
- Afghanistan
- the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Somalia
- Syria
Confirm this requirement with the nearest Indian diplomatic office before travelling.
Useful links
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice– 31 August, 2023
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers– 31 August, 2023
- COVID-19 and International Travel– 31 August, 2023
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever – Country Entry RequirementsHepatitis AMeaslesJapanese encephalitisHepatitis BCOVID-19InfluenzaTyphoidMalariaRabies
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
CholeraTravellers’ diarrheaTyphoid
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
ChikungunyaCrimean-Congo haemorrhagic feverVisceral LeishmaniasisLymphatic filariasisDengueZika virus
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Nipah virus
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Tuberculosis
Medical services and facilities
The quality of health care varies significantly throughout the country.
Medical care in major cities may be good, but it’s usually very limited or unavailable in rural areas.
Government hospitals provide free services or at a minimal cost. Private facilities often offer a higher level of care but can be expensive. Most hospitals require up-front payment or confirmation of insurance coverage before commencing treatment.
Specialised treatment for psychiatric illness may not be available outside major cities.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Ambulances
Ambulances are often equipped with basic and old medical equipment.
Response times can be very slow. Traffic doesn’t yield to emergency vehicles.
In case of serious illness or injury, you may consider taking a taxi or private vehicle to go to the hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.
Medical tourism
Some Canadian citizens have had severe health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.
Before leaving for medical travel:
- make sure you have done your research
- use competent health-care providers only
Receiving Medical Care in Other Countries
Keep in Mind…
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail sentences. Detention during the investigation is common and can be lengthy.
Alcohol
Laws regarding the purchase and consumption of alcohol, including the legal drinking age, differ from state to state. Authorities often call for dry periods during:
- religious festivals
- elections
- national holidays
Useful links
Smoking
It is prohibited to import, possess or use e-cigarettes, vaporisers and their refills.
Beef consumption
Cows are protected and venerated by several groups of faith in India.
Several states impose prohibitions on beef slaughter and consumption. In some rural areas, cow protection vigilantes have attacked people suspected of selling, consuming, or possessing beef or items made with cowhide.
Avoid consuming beef or its derived products while in India.
Religious proselytism
In certain states, it’s illegal to engage in religious proselytism, such as preaching, possessing, or distributing religious literature or material with the intent of converting. Indian authorities require foreign missionaries to obtain a missionary visa.
If you plan to conduct religious activities in India, ensure that:
- the activities are legal
- you possess the proper visa for the activities you plan to perform
Satellite devices
It’s illegal to carry or use a satellite device in India.
Photography
It is prohibited to take pictures of military installations, airports and dams.
Ask permission before photographing places of worship such as temples or mosques.
Imports and exports
There are strict regulations on the importation or exportation of items such as:
- firearms
- antiquities
- electronic equipment
- local currency
- ivory and gold objects
- protected animals
- pornographic material
Among others, you must register antique items for export with local police, with a photograph of each item.
Customs Guide for Travellers – India’s Central Board of Excise and Customs
Dress and behaviour
India is a traditional, conservative and multi-faith society. To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- Dress conservatively
- Behave discreetly
- Respect religious and social traditions
- Avoid displays of affection in public
- Avoid using footwear in places of worship
Family law
Indian family law is very different from Canadian law.
In case of dispute, consult a local lawyer to be fully aware of local laws regarding marital fraud, dowry abuse or extortion, custody, guardianship and visitation rights. Individuals facing charges may be forced to remain in India until their cases have been settled or charges dismissed.
Commercial surrogacy
If you’re planning to visit India to commission surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy. Seek specialist legal advice on Indian and Canadian laws before making any arrangements.
A proposed Indian government ban on foreign commercial surrogacy could affect Canadians travelling to India to enter into a surrogacy agreement.
You should also consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on current policies regarding citizenship through descent and the issuance of Canadian travel documents.
Land and property disputes
If you plan on buying property or are involved in a land dispute in India, you should seek legal advice. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.
The offices of the Government of Canada in India can’t provide assistance or legal advice related to private legal matters.
2SLGBTQI+ travellers
Indian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.
However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in India.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of India, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
Travellers with dual citizenship
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and India.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in India by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in India to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- Travelling with children
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Identification
You must carry your passport and Indian visa at all times.
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
You must carry an international driving permit.
Money
The currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR).
Non-residents are prohibited from importing or exporting the Indian rupee. A limit of 25,000 rupees is imposed on residents.
Upon entering or leaving India, you must make a declaration to customs if you have USD 5,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies.
Natural disasters and climate
India is prone to extreme weather events such as:
- avalanches
- cyclones
- dust storms
- earthquakes
- floods
- landslides
Extreme temperatures can occur in both spring and summer.
Monsoon
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to September.
Heavy rain can cause flooding throughout the country, resulting in significant loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. Seasonal flooding and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.
Cyclones
India’s coastline is subject to cyclones, particularly between April and December. These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.
If you decide to travel to a coastal area:
- know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
- Large-scale emergencies abroad
- Weather forecasts and warnings – Indian Meteorological Department
- Current cyclone activity – Tropical storm risk
Seismic activity
Parts of India are located in active seismic zones. Earthquakes occur.
In the event of an earthquake, follow the instructions of local authorities.
What to do during an earthquake
Air pollution
Smoke haze and other types of air pollution can be extremely hazardous in urban areas and cities such as Delhi. It’s typically at its worst in winter. In rural areas, air quality can be affected by agricultural burning.
Dust storms also occur across northern India.
Monitor air pollution levels, which change quickly, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions.
During periods of high pollution:
- limit your activities outdoors
- monitor local media
- follow the instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research – Ministry of Earth Science of India
- Real time ambient air quality data – Delhi Pollution Control Committee
- Air pollution in India – World Air Quality Index
Avalanches
In mountainous regions, avalanches present a risk and have resulted in fatalities.
- Monitor local media and weather forecasts
- Follow the advice of local authorities