Is India Safe? Safety Guide to Asia’s Subcontinent

India is generally safe for travelers, ranking 66th globally with a safety index of 55.7. You’ll find crime rates vary considerably by region, with urban areas requiring more caution than rural destinations. Keep basic precautions in mind: avoid overcrowded transportation, stay vigilant in crowded areas, and use digital security measures. Kerala offers greater safety, while areas like Delhi need extra awareness. The following guide provides essential insights for steering India’s diverse safety landscape.

Key Points

• India ranks 66th worldwide for safety with a score of 55.7, making it moderately safe with proper precautions.
• Crime rates have been declining since 2018, with theft being the most common offense.
• Safety varies significantly by region, with Kerala among the safest states and Uttar Pradesh having higher crime rates.
• Road safety is a concern with 450,000+ annual accidents, so choose transportation carefully, especially avoiding overcrowded vehicles.
• Digital security threats are prevalent with 702 malware detections per minute, requiring vigilance with personal data.

Understanding India’s National Crime Statistics

While planning your trip to India, you’ll want to evaluate the country’s crime landscape for a safer experience. Recent data shows an encouraging trend with crime rates falling to 445.9 incidents per 100,000 people in 2021, continuing a general decline since 2018.

India’s crime rates show promising decline to 445.9 per 100,000 in 2021, continuing a positive trend since 2018.

Theft remains the most common offense, followed by robbery and assault. Urban areas typically report more crime than rural regions. Data specifically shows intentional homicide rates have maintained relative stability with minor fluctuations between 2018-2021.

For state-specific awareness, Uttar Pradesh has the highest crime rate, while Delhi sits at 5 per capita despite political attention.

Cybercrimes and offenses against women are growing concerns, with rape cases rising 1.1% and kidnapping up 5.1% in 2025. The National Crime Records Bureau now compiles these statistics annually, providing reliable data to inform your travel decisions.

India’s Standing in Global Safety Rankings

Looking beyond domestic statistics, you’ll gain valuable perspective by examining India’s position on the global safety stage. As of 2025, India ranks 66th worldwide with a safety index score of 55.7, indicating moderate safety levels.

You might be surprised to learn that India outranks the United States (89th) in safety, though neighboring Pakistan places slightly higher at 65th. For context, Andorra leads globally with an impressive 84.7 safety score.

This ranking system, based on Numbeo visitor surveys, evaluates crime levels, public perception of safety, and specific concerns like robbery and assault.

When planning your trip, remember that safety varies markedly across regions. While India doesn’t match the high safety ratings of Asian leaders like Taiwan and UAE, you’ll find it reasonably secure with proper precautions.

Pandemic Safety and Public Health Measures

How has India managed COVID-19 as your travel destination? The country maintains vigilant monitoring with about 4,000 active cases as of June 2025.

Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi currently report the highest numbers, with cases expected to rise during monsoon season.

You’ll need to wear masks in crowded spaces, particularly if you’re elderly or have underlying health conditions.

India’s robust vaccination program has markedly reduced severe illness, with accessible vaccination centers throughout the country.

The healthcare system stands prepared with enhanced ICU capacity, oxygen supplies, and telemedicine services.

If you’re planning a trip, check state-specific advisories as requirements vary by region.

While India hasn’t reported significant presence of the NB.1.8.1 variant that’s increasing globally, the country continues its genomic surveillance efforts.

Stay current with booster recommendations, practice good hygiene, and consider avoiding crowded locations during peak monsoon months.

Digital Security and Cybercrime in India

When traveling through India’s digital landscape, you’ll face significant cybersecurity challenges alongside its opulent cultural experiences. With 702 malware detections per minute across the country, your digital safety requires vigilance.

Be particularly cautious with financial transactions—banking and e-commerce sectors are highly vulnerable, with projected cybercrime costs reaching Rs 20,000 crore by 2025. Trojans account for nearly half of all malware threats. Organizations like the Data Security Council of India work to promote data protection best practices across industries.

Watch for social engineering scams and brand impersonation, which are rampant. Only 24% of Indian organizations are adequately prepared for cyberattacks, so don’t assume businesses you interact with have robust protections.

The government has implemented the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, but you’ll need personal precautions: use VPNs, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities.

Transportation and Urban Infrastructure Safety

Getting around India’s transportation system presents serious safety challenges you shouldn’t underestimate. With over 450,000 road accidents annually causing more than 150,000 deaths, India accounts for roughly 10% of global road fatalities. Over-speeding is the leading killer.

India’s roads claim 150,000+ lives yearly—a stark reminder to prioritize safety over speed when traveling.

When traveling, avoid overcrowded public transport despite its relative safety. Two-wheeler riders face the highest risk, representing nearly half of all road accident deaths in the country. Urban areas lack adequate pedestrian infrastructure, so stay vigilant while walking. Emergency services exist but are often overwhelmed.

Railways offer a generally reliable option, while air travel maintains high safety standards and follows international regulations. The government is implementing initiatives to reduce fatalities by 50% by 2030, including safety awareness campaigns and improved vehicle standards.

For your safety, consider smart traffic management systems and be aware of ongoing infrastructure developments that may affect your journey.

Regional Safety Considerations for Travelers

Though India offers incredible cultural experiences across its diverse states, safety conditions vary dramatically by region, requiring travelers to prepare accordingly.

You’ll find markedly higher crime rates in Uttar Pradesh (7.4 per capita) and Arunachal Pradesh (5.8), compared to safer states like Kerala.

Delhi, despite political focus on safety improvements, maintains a concerning 5.0 crime rate.

When planning your itinerary, consider that Jharkhand (5.3) and Meghalaya (5.1) have specific areas with travel advisories.

Your perception of safety will impact your experience—Kerala residents report feeling much safer in their neighborhoods than those in Uttar Pradesh or Delhi.

For those seeking exceptional safety while traveling in India, Nagaland stands out as one of the safest states with notably low crime rates, particularly regarding crimes against women.

Research regional differences before traveling, especially if you’re visiting multiple states, and adjust your safety precautions accordingly.

The Sum Up

India, like any sprawling country, isn’t painted with a single brush when it comes to safety. You’ll need common sense and cultural awareness as your traveling companions. While crime statistics and regional differences matter, your experience largely depends on preparation and respect for local customs. Stay vigilant about your surroundings, trust your gut instincts, and you’ll likely find India’s vibrant tapestry unfolds with more wonder than worry.