Safety

Safety in India

India presents a mixed safety picture—violent crime against foreigners is relatively rare, but other risks require awareness and precautions.

Overall Safety

Violent crime targeting foreigners is uncommon. Most safety incidents involve:

• Petty theft and pickpocketing
• Scams and overcharging
• Traffic accidents
• Food and waterborne illness

Main Safety Concerns

1. Petty Theft & Pickpocketing

• Crowded areas: markets, train stations, tourist sites
• Bag snatching in some areas
• Hotel-room thefts occur at budget accommodations

Prevention: Use hotel safes, carry minimal cash, be aware in crowds, use money belts.

2. Scams

Common tourist scams include:

• Taxi/auto overcharging: Inflated fares or "broken meter"
• Gem and carpet scams: High-pressure sales with fake quality
• Tour guide scams: Unsolicited guides leading to commission shops
• Money exchange scams: Short-changing or counterfeit notes

Prevention: Use Ola/Uber for transport, buy from reputable shops, ignore unsolicited offers.

3. Traffic Safety

• India has a high road accident rate
• Traffic rules are loosely followed
• Pedestrian crossings are unreliable
• Motorbike accidents common

Prevention: Use ride-hailing apps, avoid driving yourself, cross roads with locals, wear helmets.

4. Food & Water Safety

• Never drink tap water—use bottled or filtered water
• Street food: start slowly to acclimatize your stomach
• "Delhi belly" is common for newcomers
• Stick to busy stalls with high turnover

Women's Safety

India requires extra awareness for women:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night
• Use women's compartments on trains and metros
• Dress conservatively in non-tourist areas
• Share ride details with someone you trust
• Use Ola/Uber rather than hailing rides on the street

In Goa, Bangalore, and other cosmopolitan areas, safety is generally better. Major cities have improved significantly with CCTV, police patrols, and helplines.

Areas of Caution

• Kashmir (Line of Control region): Security concerns; tourist areas generally safe
• Northeast border areas: Require special permits (ILP/PAP)
• Naxal-affected areas: Parts of central India

Emergency Contacts

Health Safety

• Get recommended vaccinations (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, etc.)
• Mosquito-borne diseases: Dengue, Malaria in some areas
• Air pollution: Significant in Delhi, northern cities (Oct-Feb)
• Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit