India Travel Advisory – June 2025: What Every Visitor Needs to Know
Travel advisories for India in June 2025 recommend exercising increased caution due to ongoing threats from terrorism, violent crime, and civil unrest, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir, areas within 10 km of the Pakistan border, parts of Central and East India, and select northeastern states. The Canadian government similarly advises a high degree of caution nationwide, with “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” warnings for Jammu & Kashmir, border regions, and northeastern states such as Assam and Manipur. Health risks during the monsoon season include a surge in vector-borne diseases—dengue and malaria—driven by heavy rains and high mosquito densities, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts an early and potentially above-average monsoon, raising concerns about flooding, landslides, and cyclone impacts such as the developing Cyclone Shakti. Travelers should also heed CDC guidance on vaccinations and preventive measures, monitor local weather and security updates, and prepare contingency plans to ensure a safe journey.
1. Advisory Levels and Security Risks
1.1 U.S. State Department Guidance
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution applies to most of India due to crime and terrorism, with specific warnings:
Do Not Travel to:
The union territory of Jammu & Kashmir (except eastern Ladakh and Leh)
Areas within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border
Portions of Central and East India affected by Naxalite activity
Manipur due to ethnic violence.
Reconsider Travel to northeastern states because of periodic insurgent attacks.
U.S. citizens are advised to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), develop personal security plans, and follow updates from the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi.
1.2 Canadian Travel Advice
Canada’s advisory (last updated May 14, 2025) labels India with Exercise a high degree of caution, highlighting:
Avoid all travel to Jammu & Kashmir and areas within 10 km of the Pakistan border (Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan)
Avoid non-essential travel to Assam and Manipur
High caution in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai due to temporary consular service disruptions and potential protests.
1.3 UK and Other Advisories
The UK FCDO advises against travel within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border and notes closure of the Wagah-Attari crossing.
Always verify the latest updates via official embassy channels, as security conditions can change rapidly.
2. Health Considerations
2.1 Vector-Borne Diseases
Dengue incidence spikes during monsoon (June–September). In 2024, India reported over 230,000 dengue cases; 2025 trends show high mosquito density that could trigger outbreaks in cities such as Nagpur.
Malaria remains endemic in many rural and semi-urban areas; prophylaxis may be recommended depending on itinerary.
The CDC emphasizes that vaccines cannot protect against many diseases in India; travelers must take personal protective measures: wearing long sleeves, using DEET repellent, and sleeping under nets.
2.2 Other Health Risks
Waterborne illnesses (e.g., traveler’s diarrhea) are common; consume only bottled or treated water and avoid raw street food.
Air pollution in Delhi NCR and other urban centers can worsen respiratory conditions, especially during pre-monsoon dust storms.
Check CDC Travel Health Notices for up-to-date alerts on emerging threats, including antimicrobial-resistant infections.
3. Seasonal Weather and Natural Hazards
3.1 Monsoon Weather Patterns
The IMD forecasts above-average monsoon rains in 2025, marking the second straight year of heavy precipitation and raising flood and landslide risks in low-lying and hilly regions.
Mumbai and other west-coast cities may see an early monsoon onset, with light to moderate rainfall warnings through June 20, increasing travel disruptions through waterlogged streets and traffic delays.
3.2 Cyclone Threats
A cyclonic circulation over the Andaman Sea could intensify into Cyclone Shakti by late May, posing risks to coastal Odisha, West Bengal, and Bangladesh; travelers should monitor IMD bulletins and prepare for flight or rail cancellations.
4. Practical Travel Tips
4.1 Entry Requirements and Visas
E-Visa services remain available online; ensure passport validity of at least 6 months beyond date of entry with two blank pages.
Strict penalties apply for visa overstays, including fines and detention; obtain an exit visa via FRRO if needed.
4.2 Local Transportation
Domestic flights and long-distance trains may face delays or cancellations due to weather or security sweeps; book flexible tickets and confirm schedules 24–48 hours prior to departure.
Road travel in monsoon can be hazardous due to flooded roads and landslides, particularly in hill stations (e.g., Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand).
4.3 Cultural and Social Considerations
Dress modestly, especially in conservative or rural areas, to respect local customs and reduce unwanted attention.
Women travelers should avoid traveling alone at night and can register with women-specific support services offered by embassies.
4.4 Emergency Preparedness
Keep digital copies of important documents (passport, visa) and carry local emergency numbers:
Police: 100/112
Medical: 102
Fire: 101
Enrol in STEP or similar embassy programs to receive real-time alerts and location services.
5. Conclusion
Traveling to India in June 2025 offers unparalleled cultural richness and scenic diversity, but demands thorough preparation. By keeping abreast of the latest security advisories, understanding monsoon-related health and weather risks, and following practical tips for accommodations and transport, travelers can minimize disruptions and stay safe. Always consult official sources—U.S. Department of State, Government of Canada, CDC, and the IMD —for the most current information before and during your journey.