Travel Advisory India: US Warns Women Of Rape Risk In Shocking Travel Alert

June 22, 2025: The United States State Department has issued a Level-2 travel advisory for India, urging American travellers to exercise increased caution due to elevated risks of crime and terrorism. The advisory, updated on June 16, highlights specific regions and incidents that may pose a threat to visitors, particularly in certain rural and border areas.

According to the advisory, rape is among the fastest growing crimes in India, and violent crimes, including sexual assault, have been reported at tourist spots and other public places. It also warned that terrorist attacks can occur without warning, especially at high-footfall locations like transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government buildings.

Regional Travel Restrictions for US Officials

Due to the risks involved, US government employees in India must obtain special authorisation before travelling to several Indian states, unless their visit is limited to capital cities. These include:

• Bihar
• Jharkhand
• Chhattisgarh
• West Bengal
• Odisha
• Meghalaya

Additional restrictions apply to eastern parts of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, as well as parts of Jammu and Kashmir, central and eastern India, and the northeast state of Manipur, which was specifically flagged due to ongoing unrest.

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The advisory also cautioned against crossing the India-Nepal border by land, citing risks of immigration-related detention and fines.

Safety Precautions for Travellers

The US State Department has urged its citizens to avoid venturing out alone, especially women, and to avoid rural or isolated regions. Travellers were also reminded that carrying satellite phones or GPS devices is illegal in India, and possession could result in fines up to $200,000 or jail time of up to three years.

While India remains a popular destination for global travellers, the US advisory serves as a critical reminder to remain alert, informed, and cautious—especially when travelling outside major metropolitan areas.