The US State Department has updated its travel advisory for India, issuing a Level-2 warning on June 16, cautioning American citizens to exercise increased vigilance due to the growing risks of violent crime and terrorism across parts of the country.
According to the advisory, rape and sexual assaults are among the fastest-rising crimes in India, and tourist-heavy areas such as transportation hubs, shopping malls, and public markets are frequent targets for such incidents. The advisory underscores that terrorist attacks could occur without any advance notice, potentially impacting both locals and foreign travelers alike.
The advisory also noted that US government personnel stationed in India face strict travel restrictions. For example, travel beyond capital cities in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Meghalaya requires prior approval from US authorities. Similarly, eastern regions of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh are off-limits without official permission.
Highlighting the limited capacity of the US Embassy and Consulates to respond quickly in rural areas, the advisory discouraged travel to remote locations in eastern and central India unless absolutely necessary. The document further warns that areas along the India-Pakistan border, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Northeastern state of Manipur carry higher security risks.
A surprising legal note in the advisory states that possession of satellite phones or GPS devices is illegal in India, and violators may face penalties of up to $200,000 or imprisonment for as long as three years. The advisory stresses that travelers—especially solo female tourists—should avoid moving alone and take extra precautions when visiting India.
In addition, the US cautioned citizens against crossing the India-Nepal border by land, citing the potential for immigration-related detentions and hefty fines.
Given the evolving nature of threats, the advisory strongly encourages travelers to stay updated, follow local laws, and avoid high-risk areas unless absolutely necessary. It also advises Americans currently in India to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety updates and emergency support.
