India is a safe and rewarding destination for travellers who follow a few simple rules. The most common problem is an upset stomach in the first week, and the most effective prevention is bottled water and freshly cooked food. This guide covers vaccinations, food and water, mosquitoes, altitude, insurance and the everyday safety habits our guides recommend.
Before you go: vaccinations and insurance
See a travel clinic 6 to 8 weeks before departure. Commonly recommended vaccinations for India are:
- Hepatitis A and Typhoid – advised for all travellers.
- Tetanus and Diphtheria – keep boosters up to date.
- Hepatitis B and Rabies – for longer trips or rural travel.
- Yellow fever certificate – required only if you arrive from a yellow-fever country.
Travel insurance with medical cover is compulsory on all our tours, and for Ladakh it must include emergency evacuation above 3,000 metres.
Food and water
- Drink only sealed bottled or filtered water; check the seal. Our vehicles carry a supply every day.
- Avoid ice outside good hotels and restaurants, and brush your teeth with bottled water.
- Eat food that is cooked fresh and served hot. Busy stalls with high turnover are safer than quiet ones.
- Peel fruit yourself; skip pre-cut fruit and raw salads at street level.
- Vegetarian food is widely available and generally the safest choice on day one.
- Ease into spicy dishes; "medium" in India is hotter than at home.
Mosquitoes, sun and altitude
Dengue and malaria exist in parts of India, mainly in the monsoon and post-monsoon months. Wear long sleeves at dusk, use a DEET repellent and sleep under a net or in air-conditioned rooms. Ask your doctor whether malaria tablets are advised for your route.
The sun is strong even in winter; drink 2 to 3 litres of water a day, wear a hat and reapply sunscreen. On the Ladakh tour, follow the acclimatisation plan: rest on day one, no alcohol, and tell your guide immediately if you have a persistent headache or nausea.
Staying safe
- India has a low rate of violent crime against tourists; petty theft and scams are the main risks.
- Keep valuables in a money belt or hotel safe and carry only the cash you need.
- Use the driver and guides provided by us; avoid unsolicited "helpers" at monuments and stations.
- Women travelling alone should dress modestly, avoid empty streets after dark and sit in the women's carriage on metro trains.
- Save our 24/7 emergency number (sent with your booking) and the Indian emergency number 112.
Frequently asked questions
Traveller's diarrhoea caused by unfamiliar bacteria. Stick to bottled water and hot, fresh food, wash your hands often and consider a probiotic from a week before departure.
Major cities have excellent private hospitals used by international patients. Your travel insurance will direct you to an approved facility; our team will accompany you.
Still have questions? Our team answers within one working day. Call +44 7915 382603, write to contact@visit-to-india.com or see the FAQ.