To visit India, the visa requirements vary based on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. Here’s an outline of the main types of visas and entry requirements:

Tourist e-Visa:
Eligibility: India offers an electronic visa (e-Visa) for citizens of over 160 countries, including the United States, UK, Canada, and most European countries.
Validity and Duration: Tourist e-Visas are generally available for 30 days, one year, or five years. The 30-day e-Visa allows two entries within that period, while the one-year and five-year e-Visas allow multiple entries, with stays of up to 90 days per visit (or 180 days for U.S., UK, Canadian, and Japanese citizens).
Application Process: The e-Visa application is completed online through the official Indian government portal. It requires passport information, a passport photo, and payment, with processing typically completed within three to five days.

Regular Tourist Visa:
For Long-Term Visits: Travelers from certain countries or those planning to stay longer may need to apply for a traditional tourist visa at an Indian embassy or consulate. This option is suitable if a longer stay or extended validity is needed beyond what the e-Visa offers.
Duration: Regular tourist visas can vary in validity, often granted for up to six months, one year, or even five years with multiple-entry options. Each stay duration is generally capped at 90 days.

Business Visa:
Purpose: Required for travelers visiting India for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or trade events.
Validity and Durationv: Business visas are usually issued for one year or five years with multiple entries allowed. Each visit allows a stay of up to 180 days.
Application: Applicants may apply online (for an e-Business visa) or through the nearest embassy or consulate. Supporting documents, such as a business invitation letter, may be required.

Employment Visa:
Purpose: Intended for foreigners working in India for an extended period.
Application Process: Requires an employment contract and supporting documents, including proof of qualifications.
Validity: Typically issued for one year initially, but renewable in India.

Student Visa:
Purpose: For individuals enrolled in Indian educational institutions.
Validity: Generally valid for the duration of the academic course or up to five years.
Application: Students must apply at an Indian embassy or consulate with admission confirmation from a recognized institution in India.

Medical Visa:
Purpose: For those seeking medical treatment at recognized hospitals in India.
Validity: Usually issued for up to six months, with multiple entries permitted.
Medical Attendant Visa: Family members or attendants accompanying a medical visa holder may apply for a Medical Attendant Visa, usually valid for the same duration.

Transit Visa:
Purpose: For travelers transiting through India en route to another country.
Validity: Generally valid for 72 hours, and is only issued for short layovers.

Key Points:
Registration: Foreigners staying longer than 180 days on certain visas may need to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) upon arrival in India.

In recent months, India has experienced multiple terrorist incidents, primarily centered in Jammu and Kashmir, which continues to be a focal point for security threats due to the region's complex geopolitical landscape and insurgency risks.

Key Incidents:
Ganderbal Attack (October 2024):
In October, a significant terror attack occurred at a construction site in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, including six migrant laborers and a doctor. This attack was notable as it targeted non-local workers, raising concerns over escalating risks to civilians and migrant workers in the region.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a group associated with the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. The group has increasingly targeted civilians and infrastructure to destabilize the region. This incident led to a high-profile investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is examining cross-border infiltration links, as TRF has known affiliations with Pakistani militant networks.

Explosives and Weapon Seizures:
In the months leading up to these attacks, Indian security forces seized explosives and weapons in border areas such as Kathua in Jammu, where two unidentified individuals were spotted with arms, raising alarms about infiltrations. These incidents, coupled with weapon and explosive seizures, underscore the persistent threat posed by armed groups attempting to move materials across the border to execute attacks within India.

Continued Threats in Jammu and Kashmir:
Besides Ganderbal, incidents of violence have occurred across districts such as Rajouri, Poonch, and Udhampur. These areas have seen increased militant activities and sporadic attacks on security personnel, influenced by regional dynamics and the use of guerrilla tactics by insurgent groups aiming to challenge Indian control over the region.

Broader Context and Security Measures:
India’s security forces have remained on high alert, particularly in sensitive border regions and urban centers, to counter these ongoing threats. Authorities have increased military presence, surveillance operations, and community awareness programs to protect civilians and deter further infiltration attempts. Security agencies are also working to dismantle logistical support networks within India, which are believed to be facilitated by elements with ties to Pakistan-based terror outfits and local sympathizers.

These developments highlight the broader security challenges India faces, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where political sensitivities and cross-border insurgency threats continue to contribute to instability.

Before visiting India, it’s recommended to have certain vaccinations, especially if you plan to travel to rural areas or engage in activities that may expose you to health risks. Here’s an overview of recommended vaccines:

Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date, including:

Routine Vaccinations:
Ensure you are up to date on all routine vaccinations, including:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Influenza

Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food or water, and it is recommended for all travelers visiting India, as it can be contracted even in cities with good sanitation.

Hepatitis B:
Spread through contact with blood or bodily fluids, Hepatitis B is recommended for those who may engage in activities involving close contact with the local population or those requiring medical procedures.

Typhoid:
Typhoid fever is also spread through contaminated food and water. The vaccine is particularly important if you plan to eat food from street vendors or in rural areas.

Japanese Encephalitis: Consider this vaccine if you plan to stay for extended periods in rural areas or during the monsoon season, particularly in areas where mosquito exposure is common.

Rabies: This is recommended if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, where you might come into contact with stray animals, particularly dogs.

Malaria Prevention: While there is no vaccine for malaria, preventive medications may be advised depending on the areas you’re visiting. Malaria risk varies greatly by region, so consult your healthcare provider about whether prophylactic medication is necessary for your itinerary.

It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider 4–6 weeks before travel to ensure all vaccinations and preventive measures are up-to-date based on your specific travel plans and destinations.

Public Transportation in India:
India has a wide-ranging public transportation network, offering options from buses and trains to auto-rickshaws and metro systems, though experiences vary greatly between urban and rural areas.

Railways: Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks in the world, connecting major cities and many smaller towns. Long-distance trains are generally affordable, with classes ranging from general seating to air-conditioned sleeper cars. However, trains can be crowded, and tickets often need to be booked in advance.

Metro Systems: Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata have metro systems, which are reliable and efficient for intra-city travel. The metro is often the fastest option in cities with heavy traffic.

Buses: Local and intercity buses are widely available across the country, run by state transport authorities and private operators. Public buses are generally affordable, though they can be crowded and lack comfort in some regions. Some private operators offer air-conditioned and sleeper buses for intercity travel.

Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Auto-rickshaws are a common way to travel short distances, though fares often need to be negotiated. In major cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola are widely available, providing a more comfortable alternative to auto-rickshaws.

Air Travel: For long-distance intercity travel, India has an extensive network of domestic flights connecting major cities and tourist destinations.

Driving in India
Visitors to India can drive on their home country’s driving license for a limited period, typically up to one year, but having an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended. An IDP can help with rental agencies and authorities since it provides a standardized translation of your license.

Road Conditions and Driving Culture:
Road Conditions: Road quality varies significantly. Highways connecting major cities are generally well-maintained, but rural roads may be narrow, poorly marked, or affected by weather, particularly during monsoon season.

Driving Culture: Driving in India can be challenging, with chaotic traffic, frequent lane-changing, and inconsistent adherence to traffic rules. Expect to share the road with cars, motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, pedestrians, and even animals, especially in busy urban areas.

Traffic Congestion: Traffic in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru can be dense and slow-moving, particularly during rush hours.

Parking: Parking can be limited in urban areas, particularly in crowded parts of major cities. Hotels and malls often have dedicated parking, but street parking can be challenging.

In summary, while public transportation is widely available, driving on your own in India requires caution due to diverse road conditions and high traffic density.