Lexi Webster
As of 2023, there are several safety concerns for Australians travelling to India. Firstly, there is a high risk of politically-motivated violence due to the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan, and travellers are advised to avoid the border areas between the two countries. Additionally, certain regions within India, such as Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam's border districts, are classified as disturbed areas due to insurgent and separatist violence. Curfews and restrictions have been imposed in Manipur following violent ethnic clashes, and foreigners travelling to this region are advised to leave if possible. Scams and credit card fraud are also common in tourist areas and airports, and travellers are advised to exercise caution when using debit or credit cards. Furthermore, travellers should be cautious about drink spiking and methanol poisoning, especially in unlabelled or home-made alcoholic drinks, and should refrain from commenting on local or political topics on social media to avoid arrest or negative repercussions. Overall, travellers from Australia to India are advised to stay informed about local safety, laws, and health risks, and to monitor their surroundings and personal belongings at all times.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Passport requirements | A valid passport with sufficient validity is required. |
| Visa requirements | An e-visa obtained at least four days before arrival in India is needed. |
| Vaccination requirements | No proof of vaccination is required to enter India, but travellers are advised to get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, rabies, and malaria. |
| Health risks | Increased risk of contracting certain diseases and viruses; risk of methanol poisoning from consuming unregulated alcohol |
| Security risks | High risk of crime and terrorism, particularly in the northeastern states of Jammu and Kashmir and the border districts of Assam; risk of kidnapping and serious crimes against foreigners. |
| Travel advisories | The US State Department issued a Level 2 advisory for India in 2024. |
| Travel warnings | Avoid non-essential travel to Manipur due to violent clashes and curfews; avoid border areas between India and Pakistan; monitor local media and follow advice of local authorities. |
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What You'll Learn
Research local customs and culture
India has a rich and diverse culture, with many unique customs and traditions that vary across its 28 states and seven territories. Many of these traditions stem from ancient Indian scriptures and texts, which paved the way of life in India for centuries. Here are some key aspects of local customs and culture to be aware of when travelling from Australia to India:
Greeting Customs
A popular custom in Indian culture is the Namaste greeting, sometimes called namaskar or namaskaram, which translates as 'I bow to the divine in you'. This respectful way of saying hello, goodbye, and thank you has seen a global uptake during the Coronavirus outbreak as an alternative to handshakes and hugs.
Religious Customs
India has hundreds of celebrations and festivals that represent the country's rich culture and traditions. These include state-wide, religion-based, and community-focused festivals. Codes of dress and behaviour are particularly strict at religious sites. It is important to bathe or shower before entering a temple, or at least wash your hands and feet to cleanse yourself of negative thoughts and evil influences. You should also remove your footwear before entering places of worship, and avoid wearing any leather or animal skin, as this may offend practising Hindus. During the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking may be forbidden in public during the day. If you are not fasting, it is respectful to avoid these activities around those who are.
Family Customs
Indian culture often involves joint families, where the entire family lives together, including parents, wife, children, and occasionally other relatives. The head of the family is a 'Karta', a senior male or female who makes economic and social decisions on behalf of the family. Income goes into a common pool to benefit all members. Arranged marriage is also a strong tradition in India, dating back to Vedic times in 1500-1100 BCE.
Australian Customs
It is also important to be aware of your own cultural customs when travelling abroad. Australians are known for their unique slang, often shortening words like "sunnies" for sunglasses and "boardies" for board shorts. They also value respect, humility, and humour, so a cheerful "g'day mate" is always welcome! Australians also have a strong sense of community and often come together for celebrations, sporting events, and casual get-togethers like barbecues.
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Plan travel and visa requirements
When planning travel from Australia to India, it is important to be aware of the safety risks and take the necessary precautions. The Australian government has issued travel advice for India, which includes recommendations to avoid certain areas due to political tensions and the risk of violence. It is important to register with the High Commission in New Delhi and follow the advice of local authorities. Additionally, there are strict rules regarding satellite phones and navigational devices, with significant penalties for non-compliance.
In terms of visa requirements, Indian citizens require a valid visa to enter Australia for tourism, business, or other purposes. The type of visa needed will depend on the purpose and duration of the visit, and it is important to review the specific conditions and validity period. Similarly, Australian citizens will need to obtain a visa to enter India and should check the Indian Visa Online website for eligibility and requirements.
To enter Australia from India, Indian citizens must apply for a visa in advance. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose and duration of the intended stay. Australia offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, and student visas. It is important to carefully review the requirements and ensure that all documents and photographs meet the specified standards, as applications may be rejected if they do not comply.
When travelling from Australia to India, it is important to be aware of the entry and exit conditions, which can change at short notice. The Indian High Commission in Canberra can provide information on visas, currency, customs, and quarantine rules. Additionally, it is recommended to check flight times in advance and allow extra time for heightened security checks.
Overall, when planning travel and considering visa requirements for India, it is important to stay informed about safety risks, register with the relevant authorities, comply with visa regulations, and be prepared for potential changes in entry and exit conditions.
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Check health and medication needs
India is an incredible and unique country to visit, but it is important to plan ahead to ensure you stay safe and healthy during your trip. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations to help you prepare for your journey:
- Understand your health and medication needs before travelling: Consider your physical and mental health, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take regular medication. Discuss your travel plans with your doctor at least eight weeks before your departure, and ensure you have enough medication for your trip and any unforeseen circumstances.
- Check the legality of your medication in India: Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is legal in India. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even with a valid Australian prescription. Consult official government sources, such as Smartraveller, to verify the legality of your medication in India.
- Obtain the necessary documentation for your medication: Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating your name, the medication's purpose, and that it has been prescribed to you. Keeping medication in its original packaging with the pharmacy label can also be helpful.
- Be aware of medication costs: Medication that is cheap in Australia may be significantly more expensive in India, especially if it is subsidised by the Australian Government.
- Research local medical services: Understand the availability and standards of medical services in the areas you plan to visit. Medical tourism is common in India, but standards vary, and some establishments are uncertified, which can lead to serious complications.
- Understand local laws and customs: Research and respect local laws, customs, and dress codes. This includes understanding any restrictions on medication and knowing that you are responsible for complying with local regulations.
- Obtain necessary visas and insurance: Ensure you have a valid visa, such as a tourist or medical visa, and comprehensive travel insurance that covers your health and medication needs.
By carefully considering these health and medication instructions, you can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable travel experience in India.
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Be vigilant to avoid petty crime
India is a unique country with a diverse range of cultures and customs. While it is generally considered a safe destination for travellers, it is important to be vigilant to avoid petty crimes such as pickpocketing, touting, scams, and theft. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe while travelling from Australia to India:
- Keep your passport secure at all times. Your passport is a valuable document that can attract unwanted attention from criminals. Avoid showing it off in public places, and keep it in a safe place, such as a hidden pouch or a secure hotel safe. If your passport is lost or stolen, be sure to report it immediately to the Australian Government or the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Pickpocketing is a common issue in India, and crowded areas provide the perfect opportunity for thieves. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of anyone trying to distract or bump into you.
- Dress conservatively and respect local customs. In India, it is respectful to cover your shoulders, chest, and legs. This is especially important for female travellers, who may experience harassment. It is also recommended to cover your head with a scarf in certain regions.
- Avoid travelling alone at night. Solo female travellers, in particular, should take extra precautions after dark. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated locations. Consider travelling in groups or using reputable transportation services.
- Stay informed about local news and customs. India is a diverse country with varying cultural norms and traditions. Research the specific customs and dress codes of the places you plan to visit. Keep yourself updated on any potential areas of civil unrest or demonstrations and avoid these areas.
- Be cautious when driving or travelling by road. Road rules in India are often treated as guidelines rather than rules, so be prepared for unexpected driving behaviours. Always use a reputable transportation service and ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as an international driving permit if you plan to drive.
- Keep your belongings secure. In addition to your passport, ensure that your personal items and luggage are secure at all times. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for your cash and important documents.
By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can minimise your risk of encountering petty crimes and have a safe and enjoyable trip to India. Remember to consult official government travel advice and stay informed about local developments during your stay.
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Monitor political and civil unrest
Political and civil unrest is a concern in India, and travellers from Australia should be cautious. The country has a high risk of crime and terrorism, with warnings against travelling to certain areas. The US State Department has classified India as "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" for 2024, and the UK government also advises against all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to the unpredictable security situation, including a threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The Indian government has increased security in major hotels and transport hubs, but terrorist attacks could still occur in these places. Violent clashes between militants and security forces happen regularly, and civilians have been caught in the crossfire.
The situation along the border with Pakistan is particularly tense, and the US State Department warns against travel within 10 kilometres of this border, noting the potential for armed conflict. In May 2025, India conducted military strikes on targets in Pakistan, and while a ceasefire has since been agreed upon, the situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate quickly. The risk of politically-motivated violence is high, and travellers should closely monitor developments affecting their safety.
Within India, the north-eastern states of Nagaland and the Assam border districts of Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, and Sivasagar are particularly dangerous. These areas are classified as 'disturbed areas' under the Indian Government's Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and have a high risk of internal law and order disruption from separatist and insurgent violence. The presence of security agencies has increased in these regions, and mobile data, internet, and transport services continue to be affected.
Additionally, ethnic tensions in India can lead to conflict and civil unrest. Maoist extremist insurgents, known as Naxalites, are responsible for most terrorist attacks in the country and usually target government and security forces. While tourists are not usually the specific target, they could be affected as bystanders. Be vigilant during election periods, religious holidays, and times of national significance, as strikes, political rallies, and demonstrations occur frequently and can turn violent.
To minimise the risks associated with political and civil unrest, travellers should monitor local media, take official warnings seriously, and follow the advice of local authorities. It is also advisable to carry identification documents at all times, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid areas experiencing political or civil unrest.
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Frequently asked questions
The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution when travelling to India. Petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing are common in crowded areas, and there is a risk of politically-motivated violence due to the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan.
It is important to plan ahead, check health requirements, understand local customs, and stay aware of your surroundings. Here are some specific precautions:
- Keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.
- Dress conservatively and respect the local dress code.
- Avoid travelling alone at night.
- Stick to well-lit areas.
- Research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance.
- Ensure you have a valid visa and a valid passport with sufficient validity.
- Check your medication is legal in India and carry a copy of your prescription.
Australian citizens need a valid Indian visa to enter the country. The fastest and easiest way is to apply for a tourist e-visa, which allows you to stay in India for up to 60 days. You can apply for this visa online.
It is important to consider your physical and mental health before travelling to India. Mental health treatment and services may differ from those in Australia. Some medications available in Australia may be considered illegal or controlled substances in India, so it is crucial to check the legality of your medication before travelling.
Female travellers should follow some simple precautions, especially when travelling solo. These include dressing conservatively, covering the shoulders, chest, and legs, avoiding travelling alone at night, and sticking to well-lit areas. While it is uncommon, female travellers may experience harassment in India.
