The cultural diversity on offer in India makes it one of the most intriguing and popular destinations for travellers.
For all its charms, India needs to be treated with some caution and planning. Severe poverty results in opportunistic crime in some areas; hygiene and sanitation standards often pose significant challenges for western tourists; and political or civil unrest can erupt quickly.
Theft and muggings can occur, even in daylight, so it’s highly advisable to ‘travel light’ while exploring and keep your valuables safely locked in a room safe or hotel security box. Public markets are hot spots for petty theft and pickpocketing. If you are going out at night, be aware of your surroundings and avoid being alone, particularly if intoxicated. Stay in well-lit areas and be sure to take only registered and licensed taxis. Drink spiking and drugging food is not uncommon — it’s advisable never to accept free food or drink and always purchase bottled and sealed beverages, especially on train journeys.
Accepting food from strangers on India’s crowded long distance trains has reportedly led to trouble for travellers being sedated and burgled while they are incapacitated. Inflated tourist prices and ticketing scams are also rife — it’s highly advisable to purchase your passes from outlets recommended by tourist offices or your hotel or tour operator.
The huge population means a lot of traffic and exhaust fumes. The waste management system sometimes involves just burning piles of rubbish including plastic.
Poor families may also use materials for fires that produce excessive smoke, like cow dung. If you have any lung or asthma-related illnesses, it’s best to wear a mask to protect your airways or avoid urban centres altogether.
NOTICE: While the Information is considered to be true and accurate at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. We strongly recommend verifying the travel advisory of your destination prior to departure.
DISCLAIMER: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all information as at the date of publishing, Allianz Global Assistance does not accept liability for any errors or omissions. Allianz Global Assistance strongly recommends seeking the guidance of a professional travel agent/agency for further information on a specific destination. On your next trip, whether to another province or country, ensure you have travel insurance as it may assist you in cases of unforeseen medical emergencies and other types of mishaps that can happen while you travel. Travel insurance does not cover everything, please always refer to the policy document for full terms and conditions, including limitations and exclusions. Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of The Co-operators Group of Companies, administered by Allianz Global Assistance, which is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc.
