India Travel Advisory 2026: FCDO Urges Caution and Restrictions for Key Regions Amid Safety Concerns

As the new year unfolds, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued an important travel advisory for the United Kingdom’s citizens planning to visit India in 2026. The advisory highlights several regions where travel is highly discouraged due to ongoing security risks and political instability. These travel warnings are aimed at ensuring the safety of travelers and providing them with accurate, up-to-date information regarding the areas to avoid.

The FCDO continues to closely monitor the situation in certain parts of India, and travelers are urged to consider the implications of these travel warnings carefully before making their plans. The regions affected by this advisory include the India-Pakistan border, Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, and the state of Manipur. While these areas have long been on the FCDO’s radar for security reasons, recent events have intensified concerns, prompting the latest travel guidance.

India-Pakistan Border: Avoid Travel Within 10km of the Border

The India-Pakistan border remains one of the most sensitive and volatile regions in the world, and the FCDO continues to advise against all travel within 10 kilometers of the border. This area is prone to frequent tensions and conflicts, especially in areas like Wagah-Attari, where the border crossing is located. The FCDO highlights that military activity, border skirmishes, and periodic escalations in this region pose a significant risk to travelers.

As a result, the FCDO recommends that UK nationals refrain from any form of travel near this border region, especially if you are considering crossing the border between India and Pakistan. With ongoing military operations and security concerns, this area remains a high-risk zone for anyone traveling to or from the area.

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir: Travel Restrictions Due to Instability

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir remains a high-risk area for travelers, with the FCDO advising against all non-essential travel. While Jammu is relatively safe, Srinagar, Pahalgam, and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway are vulnerable to instability.

In the past few years, the region has seen violent unrest, including protests, insurgent activities, and occasional military action. The ongoing conflict between Indian security forces and militants in the area has resulted in an unsafe environment for civilians and travelers. In addition, curfews and travel restrictions have been imposed periodically due to escalating violence.

For those planning to visit Jammu specifically, the FCDO suggests that air travel is the safest option, as it will avoid land routes that pass through troubled areas. However, travelers are still encouraged to remain vigilant and stay updated on the security situation before their journey.

Manipur: Essential Travel Only Due to Ethnic Clashes and Violence

The state of Manipur, located in the northeastern part of India, has been grappling with ethnic violence and social unrest for the past few years. The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Manipur, including its capital, Imphal, due to continuing tensions that have led to violent clashes between different ethnic groups.

In 2023, the region saw intense violence that caused widespread displacement and security crackdowns, and incidents of intermittent violence continued throughout 2025. While the situation has slightly calmed, there are still pockets of instability, especially in remote areas. The FCDO strongly recommends that travelers reconsider their plans if they intend to visit Manipur, given the risk of unexpected violence or political instability.

Important Travel Considerations and Insurance Advice

The FCDO stresses the importance of ensuring that travel insurance is valid for trips to the affected regions. Insurance companies often exclude coverage for travelers who go against government travel advice. This means that if you travel to areas under the FCDO’s warning, you could find that your insurance does not cover medical emergencies, travel cancellations, or evacuations.

Travelers planning to visit India in 2026 are advised to thoroughly check the terms and conditions of their travel insurance before finalizing their bookings. Make sure your insurance covers you for all potential risks and includes emergency evacuation services in the event of unforeseen disruptions.

In addition, it is essential to stay connected with local authorities and to regularly check the FCDO website for updates on the situation in India. The FCDO will continue to monitor these regions and will update its travel advice as the situation evolves.

Travel Planning Tips for 2026: Stay Informed and Prepare

As you plan your trip to India in 2026, make sure to:

• Stay informed about the latest travel advisories from the FCDO and other government sources.
• Review the safety and security guidelines for specific destinations and regions.
• Keep your travel documents up to date, especially your passport and visa.
• Familiarize yourself with local customs and emergency contacts in India.

Remember, the safety of travelers is the top priority. Although India offers incredible cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and rich history, some regions require caution and careful planning.

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Make Informed Travel Decisions

While India remains a fascinating travel destination for many, certain areas continue to pose risks due to political unrest, violence, and border tensions. The FCDO’s updated travel advisory serves as an essential guide for those considering travel to India, ensuring travelers are aware of regions to avoid and the necessary precautions to take. By staying informed, planning ahead, and ensuring travel insurance covers any risks, you can enjoy a safe and enriching experience in India.

Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or spiritual exploration, the most important thing is to prioritize safety and responsible travel.

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