The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is advising British nationals against all non-essential international travel at this time. Existing advice for India remains in place:

The FCO advise against all travel to:

• the immediate vicinity of the border with Pakistan, other than at Wagah (currently closed due to coronavirus)
• Jammu and Kashmir, except for (i) travel within the city of Jammu, (ii) travel by air to the city of Jammu, and (iii) travel within the Union Territory of Ladakh

The tourist destinations of Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg, the city of Srinagar and the Jammu-Srinagar national highway are within the areas where the FCO advise against all travel.

The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:

• the state of Manipur, except the state capital Imphal and the Meiti Valley areas, which include Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park and the Imphal War Cemetery.

For more information, see Local travel and Terrorism

Cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been confirmed in India. The Indian authorities have introduced a number of measures to limit the spread of the virus. On 24 March, Prime Minister Modi announced a three week lockdown across India that requires everyone to stay at home from midnight on 25 March for 21 days. Strict restrictions on movement are in now in place unless for an essential purpose. Essential services (including groceries, pharmacies, ATMs etc.) continue to function. See Coronavirus

The UK government will operate special flights from Goa, Mumbai and New Delhi (between 8-12 April 2020) for British tourists, short term visitors and their direct dependants to return to the UK. For information on how to book, see Return to the UK

Over one million British nationals visited India in 2018. Most visits are trouble-free.

Demonstrations against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) have taken place in parts of the country, some of which have been violent. See Political situation

Severe air pollution is a major hazard to public health, especially during the winter months. New Delhi and other North Indian cities are currently experiencing extremely high levels of pollution. See Air pollution

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in India. Recent attacks have targeted public places including those visited by foreigners. There have been recent media reports suggesting Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) may have an interest in attacking targets in India. There may be an increased threat to places visited by British nationals such as religious sites, markets, festival venues and beaches. You should be vigilant at this time, monitor local media and take all precautions for your safety. See Terrorism

Maoist (or Naxalite) insurgents specifically target police officers, paramilitary forces and government officials in parts of India, causing several deaths and injuries in 2019/20. The Government of India has identified some districts as the worst affected. See Local travel

You should avoid protests and large gatherings. Stampedes have occurred during some events with large crowds, including at political rallies and religious gatherings, resulting in deaths and injuries. They can happen without warning and occasionally result in disorder. See Political situation

Travel in India during the monsoon season (June to October) can be hazardous. See Monsoons

UK health authorities have classified India as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

The Indian Ministry of Tourism has a 24 hour multi-lingual telephone helpline on toll free number 1800 111 363 providing visitors to India with information about travel and tourism.

Before you travel, take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. Consular support is severely limited in parts of India where the FCO has existing advice against all travel and all but essential travel (as set out above).