India

Terrorist attacks are possible in India anywhere and at any time.

The Australian Government continues to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks in India.

The Indian Government regularly issues public alert warnings about possible terrorist attacks.

Terrorist attacks could target foreigners. Violence directed at others may affect you.

Terrorists have targeted popular tourist areas, including:

• hotels, markets and cinemas
• tourist and religious sites
• transport hubs and public transport networks
• sporting events

• local courts and Indian security and political establishments

Targets could also include major tourist attractions and shopping centres.

Attacks could happen during significant times such as:

• Republic Day, 26 January
• Independence Day, 15 August
• other major holidays
• periods of religious significance

Many terrorist attacks in India have involved multiple explosions, one after the other. These attacks have caused a high number of deaths.

Militants have crossed the border into India to conduct attacks in the past. It's likely this will continue.

Attacks on military and police in Jammu and Kashmir often lead to violent clashes.

Security on public transport is limited, including on buses and railways.

Security at airports has been improved due to the threat of terrorist attacks against Indian aviation interests.

To protect yourself from terrorist attack:

• check the media for threats
• take official warnings seriously
• consider the level of security at your destination
• avoid areas that are possible terrorist targets
• have a clear exit plan for crowded places and possible targets
• report suspicious activity or items to police

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information: 

• Terrorism
• What happens

Jammu and Kashmir

On 5 August, the Government of India announced constitutional changes that will affect the internal political status of Jammu and Kashmir.

A heightened Indian security presence is now in place, with additional restrictive measures applying to public gatherings, and internet and telecommunications services. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir there is a high risk of:

• armed clashes
• terrorist attacks
• violent demonstrations

There is a higher risk in rural areas and areas close to the border with Pakistan.

Terrorists have kidnapped foreigners in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists have also targeted tourist buses.

On 14 February 2019, terrorists killed and injured people in an attack on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.

People have been killed and seriously injured in widespread violent protests. More police have been sent to the region.

Avoid potential trouble spots in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Check the security situation before you travel.

Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Maoist insurgents, known as Naxalites, often attack rural and forested areas of the state of Chhattisgarh.

There is a risk of Naxalite violence in border regions of:

• Odisha
• Jharkhand
• Maharashtra
• Andhra Pradesh
• Telangana

Borders with Pakistan

Parts of the India-Pakistan border have a high risk of:

• landmines
• cross-border attacks
• violence

Always be alert to possible threats near the Atari-Wagah border crossing.

North-eastern states of Assam (except Guwahati), Nagaland and Manipur

The north-eastern states of Nagaland, Manipur and Assam, except Guwahati city, have a high risk of:

• armed robbery
• kidnapping
• extortion
• separatist and insurgent violence

This includes rural areas.

Insurgent groups in these states have:

• attacked civilians
• bombed buildings

In January and February 2017, violent protests against local elections occurred in Kohima and Dimapur in the state of Nagaland. Protesters set municipal buildings and vehicles on fire.

In January 2017, 7 explosions took place in Charaideo, Bibrugarh, Sivasagar and Tinsukia districts in the state of Assam. There were 2 more explosions in Imphal in the state of Manipur.

In August 2016, terrorists attacked a market at Balajan Tinali in Kokrajhar district in the state of Assam. These attacks killed 14 people.

Demonstrations against the new Citizenship Amendment Act are taking place in parts of the country. Some have turned violent. Local authorities have imposed curfews in some areas. Transport and communications may be disrupted without notice. 

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Violent protests and demonstrations occur from time to time. They can happen with little or no warning.

Many people have died as a result of civil unrest and communal violence in India.

Triggers for demonstrations include:

• international events
• political developments in the region
• local events

Demonstrations may affect public transport.

Large crowds at religious ceremonies and gatherings can be dangerous. They have led to life-threatening situations such as stampedes.

Indian authorities may:

• set curfews
• limit mobile network availability
• restrict activity

To protect yourself from civil unrest and violence:

• avoid demonstrations, political events, rallies, processions and large public gatherings
• check the news and other sources for information
• avoid areas affected by civil unrest
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities
• plan your activities to avoid days of national and commemorative significance

Be prepared to change your travel plans if there's an incident.

If you're affected by transport disruptions, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Sexual assault

Women in India may experience:

• unwanted attention
• harassment
• assault
• sexual assault

It is rare for people who commit these crimes to be successfully prosecuted by the law.

There are consistent, ongoing allegations and reports of sexual misconduct. These reports involve religious groups and their leaders. If you're visiting India for religious reasons, find out about your hosts before you travel.

Avoid travelling alone if you're female, even in major cities and tourist sites.

More information:

• Advice for women
• Sexual assault overseas

Drink and food spiking

Many travellers have been robbed and assaulted after consuming spiked drinks or food.

Home-made or unlabelled alcohol can be poisonous.

Drink spiking incidents have occurred:

• on public transport
• in hotels, restaurants and bars

Drink and food spiking is rare at:

• business-class hotels
• upscale bars and restaurants

The risk of drink and food spiking is higher in smaller establishments.

It's also higher in:

• New Delhi
• Goa
• Himachal Pradesh state

To protect yourself from food and drink spiking:

• don't accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave drinks unattended
• if you're not certain your drink is safe, don't drink it

Petty crime

Petty theft is common in crowded areas such as:

• markets
• trade fairs
• expos
• airports and train stations
• public transport, including overnight and long-distance trains

Thieves on motorcycles snatch bags and jewellery.

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• pay close attention to your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
• carry only what you need, including your passport
• leave valuables in a secure location
• avoid wearing expensive watches, jewellery and cameras
• avoid carrying bags that are easy to snatch

If you're walking, stay on footpaths, if possible, and:

• away from the curb
• with your bag held away from traffic

Avoid travelling alone, especially at night:

• on public transport
• in cars, taxis and rickshaws

Avoid less populous and unlit areas. This includes city streets, village lanes and beaches.

Scams

Scams in India can involve:

• ATM and credit cards
• train tickets
• taxis
• temple donations
• tour guides

Tour guide scams

Tour guides attempt to sell fraudulent tour packages. Some guides may try to 'prove' that your existing tour package is invalid so they can sell you their own package.

Strangers posing as 'guides' attempt to take travellers to tourist areas. The fake guide transports the victim to an isolated area, where they attempt to rob and molest them.

Check that any person holding a placard with your name on it knows where you are going.

Card skimming scams

Card skimming devices copy details from the magnetic strip on your ATM and credit cards. These details are transferred onto a blank card for the criminal to use. There is a high risk of card skimming at ATMs.

To avoid credit and debit card scams:

• keep your credit card in sight at all times
• don't show your PIN to others, especially when using ATMs
• check your transaction statements

Government services scams

Touts or agents near government offices tell foreigners they can provide faster services for a fee. They may be present around places such as the Foreigner Regional Registration Office.

Reporting scams

If you're the victim of a scam report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may not be able to get your money or goods back. However, police can give you an official report so you can make a claim with your insurer. See Local contacts

Touts may use aggressive tactics to persuade you to buy tickets for tours. You'll often see them at:

• airports
• railway stations
• bus stations

They may not have any connection to tour services. You may be overcharged.

Businesses don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes:

• transport
• tour operators
• adventure activities

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check the credentials of the operator
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Tigers attack and kill people in India.

Monkeys may attempt to steal items from people at temples and busy tourist attractions.

If you plan to observe or photograph wildlife:

• always respect wildlife laws and park regulations
• only use reputable and professional guides
• keep a safe distance

Severe weather

India experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• heatwaves and drought
• floods and landslides
• cyclones and storms
• dust storms
• earthquakes and tsunamis

If there's a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in touch with family and friends
• check the media, India Meteorological Department website and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities

Heatwaves and drought

The climate in India is varied.

Heatwaves can cause droughts and water shortages in summer. 

Floods and landslides

Monsoon rains occur from June to October.

Monsoon rains can cause extensive flooding and landslides.

High risk areas include:

• Uttrakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in the north and east
• Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Karnataka in the south

Floods have affected millions of people and caused many deaths.

If you're travelling during monsoon season, ask your tour operator if services have been affected.

Cyclones and storms

Cyclones are common in Indian waters from April to December. They are particularly common around the Bay of Bengal in eastern India.

Coastal and some inland areas are vulnerable to storm surges, particularly:

• Odisha, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
• Kerala
• Lakshadweep
• the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Cyclones and storms can disrupt key services, including:

• emergency and medical care
• telecommunications
• transport
• food and water supplies

If there's a cyclone or storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

If you're arriving during the wet season, contact your tour operator to check if services are affected.

Dust storms

Dust storms occur during summer.

In May 2018, a series of dust storms in North India caused some deaths.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earth tremors are common in India, particularly in the north-eastern states.

Earth tremors can cause landslides in hilly and mountainous areas.

If there is an earthquake, expect severe disruptions to services.

To stay safe during an earthquake:

• know the emergency plans at your accommodation
• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders

All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis. However, the Indian and Pacific Oceans experience large, destructive tsunamis more often. Be alert to warnings. A tsunami could quickly follow a tremor or earthquake.

Move to high ground straight away if:

• local authorities advise you to
• you feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• you feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• you see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• you hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media and weather services.

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

If you choose to travel despite our advice, get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you need counselling services while overseas, contact the Australian Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 and ask to speak to a Lifeline telephone counsellor.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in India. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

If needed, get medical documents authenticated by DFAT.

More information:

• Medicine

COVID-19

India has announced changes to entry and visa arrangements. See Travel for details. 

All incoming travellers will be medically screened on arrival and if you are travelling from or recently been to a COVID-19 effected country you may be quarantined or asked to self-isolate for a minimum of 14 days.

Follow the advice of Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare or contact your nearest Indian embassy or consulate for the latest advice. 

If you have symptoms of respiratory illness and choose to travel despite our advice, contact your doctor before travelling.

More information:

• Novel coronavirus (Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare)
• Coronavirus (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak (World Health Organization)

Swine flu (H1N1)

Cases of swine flu or influenza A (H1N1) are widespread in winter.

Talk to your GP or travel doctor about vaccinations before you leave Australia.

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is a risk in most parts of India, including major cities.

Dengue is widespread after monsoon season.

Other insect-borne diseases are common, including: 

• Japanese encephalitis

• chikungunya

• filariasis

India is currently experiencing an increase in Zika virus cases in Rajasthan and surrounding states. There's no vaccination available for Zika virus.

If you're pregnant:

• talk to your doctor about your travel plans
• defer non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

More information:

• Zika virus fact sheet (WHO)

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is widespread in India. Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are very common, including:

• meningitis
• cholera
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• diphtheria
• rabies

Tap water is not safe to drink.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink treated water or drink bottled water with intact seals
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food
• don't swim in fresh water
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Air quality

Air pollution levels in parts of India can spike to hazardous levels during the winter months, October to February.

Severe pollution can cause:

• flight delays
• traffic delays
• accidents

It can also increase the risk of breathing problems.

People who have pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be especially affected.

If you're concerned about the levels of air pollution:

• seek medical advice
• follow advice from local authorities about methods to reduce exposure
• monitor an air quality index
• reduce your exposure

More information:

• SAFAR
• Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC)
• US Embassy

Medical facilities

Medical facilities in major cities have adequate treatment standards.

Facilities in remote and rural areas can be very limited or unavailable.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you may be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Medical tourism

Medical tourism has become more common in India, including for:

• cosmetic procedures
• experimental stem cell treatments

Standards at discount and uncertified medical establishments can be poor.

Serious and possibly life-threatening complications can and do occur.

If you plan to visit India for medical tourism:

• research and choose your medical service providers carefully
• don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers

More information:

• Medical tourism

Decompression chambers

Decompression chambers are available at:

• the Indian Navy base in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• the Goa Medical College, Goa

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you're arrested for a major offence, you could go to prison for several years before you receive a verdict.

If you're imprisoned, there could be delays in getting help from the Australian Government. This is due to India's consular access approval requirements.

Drugs and alcohol

Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include mandatory sentences and the death penalty.

The minimum legal drinking age ranges from 18 to 25 years depending on the state.

The legal drinking age can vary for different types of alcohol.

Some states permit alcohol use for medicinal purposes only. Others require you to hold a permit to buy, transport or drink alcohol.

Some states prohibit alcohol being brought in from outside the state, and police may check vehicles to enforce this law.

Check the alcohol laws of each place you plan to visit.

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in India.

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Dowries

It's illegal to give or receive a dowry.

Courts can issue arrest alert notices for claims for dowry at the request of a wronged party.

If you've been involved in giving or receiving a dowry, you could be arrested when you arrive.

Drones

It's illegal to fly unmanned aircraft systems, such as drones, without official permission, particularly:

• within a 30km radius of India Gate in New Delhi

• near military, transport and power facilities

Contact local police for advice and to get permission.

Antiquities

Possessing or exporting antiquities without official permission is illegal. For information contact the Indian Central Board of Excise and Customs or an embassy or consulate of India.

Photography

It's illegal to photograph or trespass on:

• airports
• military establishments
• dams

It's also illegal to take pictures or videos of some places of worship. Always check with the building's administrative office before taking photos or video.

Other laws

In India, it's illegal to:

• not carry your passport and a valid visa
• carry or use a satellite phone without official permission
• possess firearms or ammunition
• do religious missionary work without an appropriate visa

In some states it's illegal to attempt to convert a person to another religion by force or other enticement.

It's also illegal to deliberately maim or kill a cow. The penalty is up to 5 years imprisonment in some states.

Serious crimes

Some crimes may result in the death penalty, including:

• murder
• kidnapping for ransom
• armed robbery with murder
• treason
• rape, in certain circumstances

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs
• Advice for LGBTI people
• Doing business

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

Codes of dress and behaviour are strict in India. These are particularly important at religious sites.

Physical contact between men and women in public might be considered inappropriate. Take care not to offend.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Ramadan

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan will be from late April to late May in 2020. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

The Indian constitution doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Indian law allows people of Indian origin in some countries to apply for Overseas Citizenship of India. This includes people in Australia.

Check the Overseas Citizenship of India section of the Indian Government's Ministry of Home Affairs website for details.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visa requirements

Due to COVID-19, India suspended all existing visitor visas, including the visa-free travel facility for OCI card holders, from 12:00 GMT 13 March until 15 April 2020 at the port of departure. Visas for all foreigners currently in India remain valid. Visas for all foreigners currently in India remain valid. To extend your visa apply online through FRRO/FRO.

If despite our advice you’ve compelling reasons to travel to India following the COVID-19 lockdown, you need a visa to enter India. You must arrange your visa before you arrive. 

Check with your airline or tour operator, and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for the latest update.

Electronic visas

You may be eligible for an Electronic Visa (e-Visa). It gives you up to 60 days of travel for:

• tourism
• business
• medical reasons

Get your e-Visa at least 4 days before you arrive.

You can:

• use an e-Visa twice in a calendar year
• enter through 1 of 24 designated airports
• enter India 2 times on a tourist or business e-Visa
• enter India 3 times on a medical e-Visa

Check that you're eligible before you apply. Visit the Government of India's e-Visa website for details.

Beware of fake websites offering e-Visa services.

Carry a printed copy of your e-Visa, known as an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).

You'll get a formal visa in your passport when you arrive in India.

Long queues are common at immigration counters in India, regardless of visa type.

If you present an e-Visa at an entry point where the e-Visa is not recognised, you:

• won't be able to apply for any other visa
• won't be allowed in
• will be deported

If you have an e-Visa, you can leave India from any authorised immigration check point.

Other visas

Not all international airports in India allow passengers to enter with an e-Visa. If you enter through another location, you need a visa. Arrange your visa through an Indian consulate, embassy or agent before you arrive.

All other visa applicants need to make an appointment online before submitting their visa application.

Other conditions

If you don't have a valid passport or visa, you could be deported by Indian authorities.

The Australian High Commission and consulates in India can't help you to stay if you don't have the right documents.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the Indian High Commission in Canberra for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

More information:

• Ministry of Home Affairs

Volunteering

If you're considering volunteer work, talk to the nearest embassy or consulate about visa requirements before you travel. This includes students visiting India under the New Colombo Plan.

Volunteer responsibly.

Make sure you are contributing in an ethical and meaningful way.

Overstays and exit visas

You could incur heavy penalties for overstaying your visa, including being jailed.

Check your visa conditions and make sure you comply.

Leave India before your visa expires.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you're in India, you'll need to get an exit visa from the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs before you leave.

If your passport is lost or stolen:

• report it to the police
• arrange a replacement travel document from the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate
• apply for an exit visa from the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs

COVID-19

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Government has announced a nation-wide lockdown from 25 March 2020 for 21 days. It has suspended all international and domestic commercial flights, and passenger trains for the time being. Metro services are also limited and may be cancelled at short notice. Other restrictions on travel and business operations may also be imposed at short notice. If you can't or don't want to leave, follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. 

India has also suspended all existing visitor visas, including the visa-free travel facility for OCI card holders, until 15 April 2020. Visas for all foreigners currently in India remain valid. To extend your visa apply online through FRRO/FRO. If despite our advice you’ve compelling reasons to travel to India following the lockdown, contact your nearest Indian embassy or consulate. 

Travel conditions in India are changing rapidly. State governments are imposing COVID-19 measures which may impact on your ability to travel easily. If you wish to leave, check departure options while commercial means are available. If you can't or don't want to leave, follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe and well. If you need urgent consular assistance call +61 2 6261 3305.

More information:

• Coronavirus (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak (World Health Organization)

Currency laws

Laws controlling the import and export of Indian rupees, foreign currency and other goods can change with little notice.

Contact your nearest Indian embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter India if you travel from an area where yellow fever occurs.

See the Indian Government's Bureau of Immigration for advice.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

Long-stay registration

If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days, register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in major cities.

In other areas, you can register with the Superintendent of Police.

All visitors on long-term visas must register. This includes the following visas:

• student
• business
• medical
• research
• employment
• missionary
• project visas

You must register even if you're a foreigner of Indian origin.

If you don't register, you could face fines or imprisonment.

You may not be able to leave India until the Bureau of Immigration grants permission.

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. It can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

ATMs that accept international debit and credit cards are widely available in larger cities and towns. However, they're harder to find in rural areas.

Cash shortages at ATMs can be a problem in rural areas.

Traveller's cheques are not widely accepted.

Counterfeit currency is in circulation. Take care when dealing with cash.

More information:

• Reserve Bank of India

Travel delays

Travel delays are common.

Expect delays around days of national significance, including:

• Republic Day, 26 January
• Independence Day, 15 August

Fog often affects northern India, particularly during December and January. Fog may cause:

• delays to air and rail travel
• dangerous road travel conditions

Travel restrictions

You may need permission from Indian authorities to visit designated tribal areas, particularly in the north-east.

Some state and union territory governments restrict foreigners from travelling around these areas.

There are heavy penalties for entering a protected or restricted area without permission.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has temporarily excluded the following areas from the Protected Area regime:

• Manipur
• Mizoram
• Nagaland

If you plan to visit a protected or restricted area:

• seek advice from an embassy or consulate of India or the Ministry of Home Affairs
• apply at least 4 weeks in advance

Driving permit

You can drive without an Indian driver's licence for 3 months, if you have both:

• an International Driving Permit
• your current Australian driver's licence

Your licence must be valid for the type of vehicle you are driving.

You need an Indian driver's licence if you will be driving in India for more than 3 months.

You insurance may be void if you have an accident without the correct licence. You could be liable for the accident as an unlicensed driver.

Road travel

Travelling by road in India can be dangerous.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), you are 3 times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in India than in Australia.

Accidents are common.

Hazards include:

• aggressive local drivers
• poorly maintained vehicles
• poor quality roads
• congested roads
• roads shared with pedestrians, carts, cattle and other livestock
• vehicles travelling in the wrong direction, often without warning

Travelling by road at night is particularly dangerous due to:

• insufficient or non-existent lighting

• other vehicles driving with headlights off or on high beam

If you hit a pedestrian or cow, you're at risk of being attacked or becoming a victim of extortion, even if you weren't driving the vehicle.

If it's unsafe to remain at the scene of an accident, go to the nearest police station.

To stay safe when driving:

• avoid driving at night
• avoid driving in fog
• if you hit a pedestrian or cow go straight to the nearest police station

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

If you plan on riding a motorbike:

• check that your travel insurance policy covers you
• exercise caution

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use a pre-paid taxi service when you arrive at the airport.

It's difficult to verify if street taxis are legitimate.

Use taxi services booked from hotels or taxi stands. Don't hail taxis on the street.

Don't use private unmarked cars as taxis.

Rideshare apps are widely used in major cities. You can use these apps with a local SIM card.

Public transport

Bus and train services can be dangerous due to:

• overcrowding
• poor maintenance
• drivers who don't have adequate training
• fires

If you travel by train, find out where the emergency exits are located.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

There may not be safety equipment, such as life jackets, on:

• tourist boats
• ferries
• other small commercial craft

Before you book, check the operators' credentials and safety equipment.

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check India's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

On 17 April 2019, Jet Airways announced the suspension of all domestic and international flights.

For information about refunds and alternative travel options, contact: 

• Jet Airways
• your travel agent
• your ticket provider, in the case of Qantas codeshare bookings

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

All emergencies

Call 112.

Fire and rescue services

Call 101.

Medical emergencies

Call 102.

Police

Call 100.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Call 1800 11 1363 for 24/7 tourist helpline in 12 languages, run by the Ministry of Tourism.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

More information:

• Ministry of Tourism

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact:

Australian High Commission, New Delhi

No. 1/50 G Shantipath (Gate 1)

Chanakyapuri

New Delhi 110 021

Phone: (+91 11) 4139 9900

Fax: (+91 11) 2687 2228

Website: india.highcommission.gov.au

Email: ahc.newdelhi@dfat.gov.au

Australian Consulate-General, Mumbai

Level 10, A Wing

Crescenzo Building

Opp MCA Cricket Club

G Block, Plot C 38-39

Bandra Kurla Complex

Mumbai 400 051

Phone: (+91 22) 6757 4900

Fax: (+91 22) 6757 4955

Website: mumbai.consulate.gov.au

Email: cg.mumbai@dfat.gov.au

Australian Consulate-General, Chennai

9th Floor, Express Chambers

Express Avenue Estate

Whites Road

Royapettah

Chennai 600 014

Tamil Nadu

Phone: (+91 44) 4592 1300

Fax: (+91 44) 4592 1320

Website: chennai.consulate.gov.au

Email: chennaiaustralianconsulate@dfat.gov.au

The Australian Government is establishing a Consulate General in Kolkata with consular services offered from early 2020. Until then, all consular issues should be directed to the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas

• 1300 555 135 in Australia