In reference to "Canadian"- information giver below is applicable to all who are coming to traveling to India from Europe, US & Canada.

Canadians should not travel to Jammu and Kashmir, with the exception of Ladakh via Manali or by air to Leh. Travel to the border areas of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and areas of Ladakh close to the Line of Control (with the exception of Amritsar and Jaisalmer) should also be avoided, due to the possibility of heightened tensions and the risk of intensified military action along the India/Pakistan border. Fields of landmines have been laid along the border with Pakistan. Military presence remains on both sides of the Line of Control. Indian and Pakistani troops frequently exchange artillery, mortar, and small arms fire across the Line of Control, causing civilian casualties. Militants have kidnapped and killed several foreigners in recent years. The Indian government has designated all districts of the Jammu region to be "disturbed areas" under the Disturbed Areas Act. Some travel agents are advising that travel to Jammu and Kashmir is safe. Travellers should not accept this advice. The Indian army continues to cordon off the border and conduct complementary exercises along the Indo-Bhutan border. Therefore, Canadians should not travel to the border areas of Assam and West Bengal.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have eased, but the security situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate at short notice. This can be expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Canadians should monitor local developments closely and register with the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi (see below).

Bombings have increased in Mumbai since December 2002. On August 25, 2003, two bombs exploded in tourist areas of the city, resulting in several deaths and injuries. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, monitor local news reports, and avoid crowds and demonstrations. Exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments and tourist areas (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events) frequented by foreigners.
( Source: http://www.voyage.gc.ca )

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Communal violence has occurred in several cities in the western state of Gujarat since February 2002, resulting in hundreds of deaths. Curfews are still imposed and enforced by police and paramilitary troops in some areas. Canadians in Gujarat state should limit their travel and be particularly vigilant at all times. Travel after dark should be avoided.

All seven states of northeastern India (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura) are subject to insurgencies to varying degrees. There have been incidents of mob violence in several Assam towns since November 9, 2003. Sporadic clashes occur between armed militants and Indian security forces. Ethnically based insurgent groups have attacked civilians and bombed buildings, buses, and trains in the region. In this climate of unrest, banditry (armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion) has flourished. Although the insurgents have not specifically targeted foreigners, travel in the northeastern region is high risk. The Indian government requires foreigners to obtain permits to visit some areas of the northeast. Any inquiries regarding current regulations should be directed to the Indian High Commission in Ottawa (see below).

Terrorist violence, such as bombings in public areas and on public transportation, occurs. Trains and buses are potential targets. Violent crime against foreigners is uncommon but occurs. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Passports and valuables have been stolen from luggage on trains and buses. Pay attention to the security of personal belongings and passports. Do not accept food or drink from strangers. There have been cases of drugging. Exercise caution when travelling throughout India, particularly when visiting tourist sites or attending public events, and avoid crowds and demonstrations. Political rallies and demonstrations can turn violent, particularly immediately preceding and following elections. Transportation and services can be disrupted. Curfews are occasionally imposed. Carry identification at all times. Do not travel alone, especially after dark. Travelling alone in remote areas presents particular risks for foreigners.

Scams involving the export of jewels and/or carpets have occurred. Canadians have been approached by taxi drivers offering money to export such items. Canadians should not accept any offer, no matter how convincing.

Foreign citizens have been attacked or have disappeared while visiting the Kulu/Manali district in Himachal Pradesh, particularly on some of the more remote trekking routes.

Canadians intending to trek in India are strongly advised to:
a) never trek alone;
b) always hire an experienced guide and ensure the trekking company is reputable;
c) buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation services;
d) be in top physical condition;
e) ensure a family member or friend knows your itinerary;
f) be familiar with the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (which can be fatal);
g) register with the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi (see below); and
h) obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out.

Canadians intending to trek in India should read our publication Out on a Limb: Advice for the Adventure Traveller.

There are reports of female Canadian citizens being forced into marriage without their prior knowledge or consent. Some are held against their will and subjected to threats, intimidation, and violence by family members. They have been unable to return to Canada, and their passports and money have been retained by family members. Forced marriages are contrary to Canadian law.

If you are in Canada and you believe that you are being forced to travel overseas or to marry, you should contact provincial social welfare authorities, including your local police. You may also contact the Operations Centre of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (tel.: 1 800 267-6788) or the officer responsible for consular matters in South Asia (tel.: 613-992-7992). In India, you should contact the nearest Canadian government office (see below).

Exercise caution when swimming, as strong currents and undertows have resulted in drownings. Warning signs, lifeguards, and rescue equipment are lacking.

Canadians should be aware that there have been media and other reports of inappropriate sexual behaviour by a prominent local religious leader in the southeastern state of Andhra Pradesh. These reports, which are unconfirmed, indicate that the victims have been young males.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in South Asia occur. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. A Weekly Piracy Report may be found on the International Chamber of Commerce's Web site

LOCAL TRAVEL

Traffic drives on the left. Travel by road is dangerous. Most roads, including major highways, are poorly maintained and traffic is congested. Drivers have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe driving practices. Do not travel by motorcycle or scooter after dark. Helmets are compulsory. Several Canadians have been killed in road accidents in recent years. Use only officially marked taxis, pre-negotiate the fare and seek information from authorized service counters at airports or railway and bus stations.

There is only one land border crossing between India and Pakistan, located between Atari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. Canadians require a visitor visa to enter Pakistan. The border crossing is open on a limited basis only, and travellers should inquire in advance.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. The IDP is a special licence that allows travellers with a valid Canadian driver's licence to drive in over 160 countries without a specific test. The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is the sole issuer of the IDP in Canada. Contact your local CAA office to pick up an application or have one mailed to you; you can also download the application from the CAA Web site (CAA). An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue.

NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

India is located in an active seismic zone. A major earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale occurred in the western state of Gujarat in January 2001, resulting in numerous fatalities and considerable property damage. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the nearest Canadian government office (see below) in the event of an emergency.

The monsoon season extends from June to September and causes severe flooding. In summer, northeastern India periodically experiences heat waves. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

Penalties for possession and trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect a minimum 10-year jail sentence and fines.

Dual nationality is not recognized. This may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times.

Strict regulations may be enforced on the temporary import or export of items such as firearms, antiquities, electronic equipment, currency, ivory, gold objects, and other prohibited materials. The Government of India recently passed a regulation requiring the registration of antique items with the local police, along with a photograph of the item. Canadians should contact the High Commission for the Republic of India (see below) for specific information regarding customs requirements.
( Source: http://www.voyage.gc.ca )