How safe is India?
Our overall read on India: use normal caution for tourists who take normal precautions. The most common issues travellers face are petty theft and the usual tourist scams rather than anything more serious.
This guide covers the scams to know, sensible day-to-day precautions, advice for solo, female and family travellers, and the health and emergency basics. For destination context, see the India travel guide.
Common scams & petty crime
Pickpocketing and petty theft are the most common problems in busy tourist areas, transport hubs and markets. Keep valuables out of sight, use a cross-body bag or a hotel safe, and stay alert in crowds and on public transport.
Typical tourist scams worldwide apply here too: inflated taxi fares, “the attraction is closed” detours, overpriced tours sold on the street, and distraction tricks. Agree fares or use a metered ride app, book tours through reputable operators, and be wary of unsolicited “help”.
Staying safe getting around
Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps, especially at night, and keep car doors locked in traffic. Keep a digital and paper copy of your passport and key bookings, and carry only the cash you need for the day.
Know roughly where you’re going before you set off, and trust your instincts — if a place or situation feels off, leave.
Solo, female & family travellers
Solo & female travellers: India is visited by plenty of solo and female travellers; dress in line with local norms, favour well-reviewed accommodation in central areas, share your plans with someone, and avoid walking alone in quiet areas late at night.
Families: standard precautions apply — keep kids close in crowds, pack any regular medication, and check that your travel insurance covers everyone. Choose accommodation in safe, convenient neighbourhoods.
Health, insurance & emergencies
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you go — it’s the single most important thing you can pack. Check whether any vaccinations are recommended, be sensible with food and water (when in doubt, bottled or filtered water), and bring a small kit with any personal medication in its original packaging.
Save your accommodation address, your country’s embassy details and local emergency numbers offline. Look up the local emergency number for India on arrival and save it to your phone.
Quick pre-trip checklist
- Read your government’s official advisory for India
- Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
- Copy your passport, visa and bookings (digital + paper)
- Note the local emergency number and your embassy
- Check the India visa guide and packing list
- Tell someone your rough itinerary
