Citizens of most countries, including the United States, need a visa to visit India which should be arranged in advance. Full details can be found at The Government of India website (http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/). Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa, while some nationalities may get them upon arrival.

Health and Safety

India is generally safe for tourists although pick-pocketing and petty theft is common. Visitors should keep an eye on belongings and use common sense to avoid becoming a target. Women should dress conservatively (bikinis are illegal in many places) and avoid being out alone at night. Kissing in public is also illegal in some areas. Overcrowding is a common problem, particularly on public transportation and in public squares. Stray animals should be avoided due to the risk of rabies. The roads are generally poorly marked and maintained and driving should be considered a hazardous activity. Tensions with Pakistan mean that terrorist attacks are always possible, although these are not common and are usually directed at locals.

One of the main health issues travelers encounter in India is an upset stomach. Tap water, ice, unsealed bottled water and uncooked food should be avoided. Visitors should use insect repellent, cover up and sleep in air-conditioning to reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases such as malaria. The only mandatory vaccination is yellow fever for travelers coming from Africa, although immunization against hepatitis A and B, meningitis, typhoid and tetanus is recommended. Tourists should consult their doctor about whether anti-malaria medication or rabies immunization is advised.