+ 4,5 h / + 3,5 h during our summer time

New Delhi

Official language

Official languages are Hindi and English. In addition, there are numerous regional languages of equal standing.

Language capabilities

English

220 volt / adapter recommended

Banks

10.00 - 15.00 h (Mon - Fri)
10.00 - 13.00 h (Sat)

Shops

10.00 - 20.00 h (Mon - Sat)

Opening hours may vary. Some supermarkets, larger retail stores and shopping centres remain open until 21.00/22.00 h and even on Sundays.

India has numerous public holidays and celebrations, some observed regionally, reflecting its rich cultural and religious diversity. The main religions and cultures shaping these holidays are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Sikhism. Each faith has its own festivals and traditions, often celebrated differently from region to region. Below is a selection of the main public holidays in India:

• 1 January: New Year (Naya Saal).

• Variable date: Makar Sankranti (Makar Sankranti) – regional public holiday in many states

• Mid-January: Tamil harvest festival (Pongal) – regional public holiday

• 26 January: Indian Republic Day (Gantantra Divas)

• Variable date in January/February: Hindu festival (Basanta Panchami)

• Variable date in February/March: Hindu festival (Maha Shivaratri)

• Variable date in March, 40 days after Basant Panchami: Holi

• Variable date in March/April: Hindu festival (Rama Navami)

• Variable date in March/April: Jain festival (Mahavir Jayanti)

• Variable date in March/April: Easter

• Variable date in May: Buddhist festival (Buddha Purnima)

• Variable date in July/August: Hindu and Sikh festival (Raksha Bandhan)

• 15 August: Independence Day (Swatantrata Divas)

• Variable date in August/September: Harvest festival in Kerala (Onam)

• Variable date in August/September: Krishna’s birthday (Krishna Janmashtami)

• Variable date in August/September: Hindu festival (Ganesh Chaturthi)

• Variable date in September/October: Navratri

• Variable date in September/October: Hindu festival (Dussehra)

• Variable date in October/November: Diwali (Deepavali)

• 2 October: Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday (Gandhi Jayanti)

• Variable date in November: Karwa Chauth

• Variable date in November: Sikh religious festival (Guru Nanak’s Jayanti)

• 25 December: Christmas (Christmas)

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland. The following documents are required for entry into India:

• A valid Swiss passport is required to enter this country. It must contain at least two blank pages and remain valid for the entire stay.

• Passengers must hold a valid visa issued by India. They can obtain an e-visa before departure at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/. Electronic entry cards are not electronic visas.

• Passengers using their e-visa for the first time must present:

  • a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages; and

  • a printed or digital confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) with the status “Approved”.

• On first entry, the Indian immigration officer records the electronic visa in the passport, including its expiry date and the permitted number of entries. Check its validity and the number of entries already used. Valid Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) issued for an expired passport are accepted if the traveller carries the expired passport and a valid passport of the same nationality. This applies if:

  • the passenger has already travelled with the ETA and has an ETA entry stamp in the expired passport; or

  • the ETA has not been used and there is no ETA entry stamp in the expired passport.

• Passengers holding an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card must apply for a new Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card ONLY ONCE when they obtain a new passport after reaching the age of 20. They no longer need to present their old passport together with the new OCI card at check-in.

• Passengers must submit the electronic arrival card at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/ or through the “Indian Visa SuSwagatam” mobile app. Submission can take place no later than 72 hours before arrival or on arrival before immigration control. Completing the form before departure is strongly recommended to ensure a smooth immigration process.

• Minors under 16 who are included in a parent’s passport are permitted to enter.

• Passengers without proof of yellow fever vaccination must be quarantined for 6 days if they have been in any of the following countries or territories in the preceding 6 days: Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda and Venezuela. Quarantine facilities are available only in Delhi (DEL), Chennai (MAA) and Mumbai (BOM). Passengers arriving at other airports will be deported. Transit passengers who do not leave the aircraft do not have to be quarantined. Further information is available at https://www.ihpoe.mohfw.gov.in/vaccination.php.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -

Northern India

• Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 25°C to 45°C. Inland, including Delhi and Agra, temperatures can be extremely high. Conditions are hot and dry, with frequent heatwaves.

• Winter (November to February): Temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C. Nights can be very cool in northern regions, including Delhi and the Himalayas. Daytime temperatures are pleasantly mild.

• Spring/autumn (September to October): Temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C. Conditions are often pleasant and dry, ideal for travel and outdoor activities.

Western India

• Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 25°C to 40°C. Coastal regions such as Mumbai experience humid heat, while inland areas are drier.

• Winter (November to February): Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C. Conditions are pleasantly cool and dry, ideal for visiting this region.

• Spring/autumn (September to October): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. Conditions are usually warm and dry, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Southern India

• Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. Humidity is high, with occasional heavy rain, particularly in coastal areas.

• Winter (November to February): Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Conditions are pleasant and dry, making this the best time to visit the region.

• Spring/autumn (September to October): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. This is the transition period between the summer months and the monsoon season, often with increased rainfall.

Eastern India

• Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 25°C to 40°C. The region experiences high temperatures and humidity, especially before the monsoon begins.

• Winter (November to February): Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C. Conditions are mild and pleasant, particularly in cities such as Kolkata.

• Spring/autumn (September to October): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. Conditions are often warm and humid, with occasional rain.

North-eastern India

• Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C. The region can be very humid, particularly before the monsoon.

• Winter (November to February): Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C. Conditions are cooler, especially at higher elevations such as in Arunachal Pradesh.

• Spring/autumn (September to October): Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Conditions are pleasant, with occasional rain, particularly in mountainous areas.

Your ideal time to visit India

• Beach holidays: November to March. Temperatures are pleasantly warm and conditions usually dry, ideal for beaches and water sports in regions such as Goa and Kerala. Summer, from April to June, can be very hot and humid, while the monsoon, from June to September, brings heavy rain.

• City breaks: October to March. Temperatures are pleasant in most cities and there is less rain, making Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur more comfortable to explore. Summer months can be very hot and uncomfortable, while the monsoon brings frequent rain.

• Mobile phone use: Using your mobile phone in India incurs roaming charges. Check roaming rates before travelling and consider special packages to reduce costs.

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is now available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: You can buy a prepaid SIM card locally for local calls and mobile data. Providers in India include Airtel, Jio, Vi (Vodafone Idea) and BSNL.

• Other information: Telephone and internet connections are often limited in remote areas. Internet access and mobile connections may be temporarily interrupted.

• Taj Mahal, Agra: A monumental white marble mausoleum, considered one of the seven wonders of the world, built by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

• Qutub Minar, Delhi: An imposing 73-metre tower dating from the 12th century, known as one of India’s oldest and largest minarets.

• Red Fort, Delhi: A mighty red sandstone fortress, once the residence of the Mughal emperors and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Hawa Mahal, Jaipur: Also known as the “Palace of Winds”, this striking building with its distinctive window-filled façades is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture.

• Gateway of India, Mumbai: A prominent landmark and historic monument on Mumbai’s waterfront, symbolically welcoming visitors.

• Red Fort, Jaipur: An immense fortress, formerly the residence of the Rajput kings, known for its ornate interiors and extensive gardens.

• Jantar Mantar, Jaipur: An impressive 18th-century observatory featuring precise astronomical instruments and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Ellora Caves, Maharashtra: A series of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cave monasteries and temples carved into the rock, displaying remarkable architectural diversity.

• Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra: A group of Buddhist cave monasteries with exquisite murals and statues dating from the period between the 2nd and 6th centuries.

• Kerala Backwaters, Kerala: A unique network of waterways and canals, explored on traditional houseboats and renowned for its scenic beauty.

• Qutub Minar, Delhi: An imposing 73-metre tower dating from the 12th century, known as one of India’s oldest and largest minarets.

• Mysore Palace, Mysore: A sumptuous palace in a southern Indian style, known for its magnificent architecture and historical exhibitions.

• Hampi, Karnataka: An ancient city known for its impressive ruins and temple complexes, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer: One of the world’s largest fortresses, in the Thar Desert, famous for its golden sandstone architecture and living history.

• Golden Temple, Amritsar: An important Sikh temple, renowned for its golden façade and spiritual significance, serving as a centre of the Sikh faith.

Below is an overview of India’s distinctive food and culinary traditions:

• Curry: A versatile dish with many variations, from mild to hot, often using a mixture of spices such as turmeric, cumin and coriander. It may contain meat, fish or vegetables and is frequently served with rice or bread.

• Samosa: A popular snack or starter consisting of crisp pastry filled with spiced mashed potatoes, peas and sometimes meat. Samosas are often deep-fried and served with chutneys.

• Dosa: A thin, crisp pancake made from fermented rice flour and lentils, typically served with different fillings and accompaniments such as chutney and sambar, a spiced lentil soup. Particularly popular for breakfast in southern India.

• Biryani: An aromatic rice dish prepared with spices, vegetables, meat or fish. It is widespread throughout India, with regional variations such as Hyderabadi or Lucknowi biryani.

• Chai: A classic spiced tea made with milk, sugar and a blend of spices such as cardamom and cinnamon. Chai is an integral part of Indian tea culture and is enjoyed at any time of day.

• Paneer: A fresh Indian cheese used in many vegetarian dishes. It can be grilled, pan-fried or used in curries and other preparations, particularly paneer tikka and palak paneer.

• Roti and naan: Two common types of Indian bread. Roti is a simple unleavened bread, while naan is often made with yoghurt and baked in a tandoor, a clay oven, giving it a soft texture. Both are frequently served with curries.

• Raita: A refreshing yoghurt dip mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, coriander and spices such as cumin. This mild accompaniment is often served with hot or spiced dishes to soften their heat.

• Gulab jamun: A popular dessert consisting of small deep-fried balls made from milk powder and soaked in sugar syrup. These sweet treats are particularly appreciated at festivals and celebrations.

• Greeting: The usual greeting is “Namaste” or “Namaskar”, often accompanied by a slight bow and hands joined in front of the chest. It shows respect and is appropriate in formal and informal situations.

• Please and thank you: In Hindi, “please” is “Kripya” and “thank you” is “Dhanyavaad”. Although these expressions exist in Indian languages, they are used less often in everyday life than in Western countries, as politeness is often implicit.

• Clothing: Dress conservatively, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should cover their shoulders and knees; men should also wear long trousers and closed shoes in certain situations.

• Dining: People often eat with their right hand, as the left is considered unclean. It is polite to wait until the host or the older people at the table start eating. Sharing dishes is common in restaurants.

• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in many public areas and is often frowned upon. Check whether smoking is permitted before doing so. It is generally prohibited in restaurants and on public transport.

• Tipping: Tips are expected in India, especially in restaurants and hotels and by taxi drivers. Around 10% of the bill is customary if no service charge is included. Porters and room attendants also expect a small gratuity.

• Other information: It is customary to remove your shoes when entering temples and homes. Respect for older people and religious sites is very important. Physical contact such as hugs or greeting kisses is unusual in public and should be avoided.

• Drinking water quality: Drinking water in India is often unsafe and may contain pathogens. Drinking only bottled or filtered water is strongly recommended. Avoid ice cubes and raw vegetables, which may also contain contaminated water.

• Vaccinations: Specific vaccinations are generally not mandatory for travellers entering India. However, keep routine vaccinations up to date, especially diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles.

• Malaria risk: Risk varies by region, altitude and season. Infections are also possible in cities. Have a travel medicine specialist assess the prevention needed for your itinerary.

• Dengue fever: Dengue is widespread in India, particularly in urban areas, and is transmitted by mosquitoes. Dengue vaccines exist; whether vaccination is appropriate for you should be assessed by a travel medicine specialist. Consistent mosquito bite prevention remains important.

• Rabies: Avoid contact with animals. After a bite or scratch, immediately wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes and seek medical help without delay.

• Mosquito protection: Protection is essential against malaria, dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases. Using repellents containing DEET or icaridin, wearing long clothing and using mosquito nets or air-conditioned rooms is recommended.

• Outside major cities, medical care is available only to a limited extent. People with a negative rhesus factor may have difficulty obtaining a blood transfusion. Choose private hospitals where possible, as they are generally better equipped than public facilities. Bear in mind that they often require an advance payment or financial guarantee before treatment begins.

• If you depend on particular medicines, bring an adequate supply in your travel medical kit. Many countries have special rules for medicines containing narcotics, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, contact the relevant foreign representation, embassy or consulate directly before departure and consult the “Travel links” section, which provides further information on this subject and on travel medicine in general. Medical professionals and vaccination centres can advise on the spread of diseases and possible protective measures.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -

• Follow media reports on the current situation before and during your trip and stay in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Pay close attention to your personal safety.

• Travel to certain parts of the country is generally advised against (more information at the bottom under “Further information > Specific regional risks”).

• Relations between India and Pakistan remain tense. Renewed military action between the two countries cannot be ruled out despite the ceasefire agreed in May 2025. Airspace may be partially closed at short notice and flights cancelled or suspended entirely. Expect restrictions on access to certain locations in the border region.

• The crime rate is high.

• Tensions exist between religious and ethnic communities and occasionally erupt abruptly into local violent clashes. Such conflicts can also spread to other regions or states.

• Local social, economic and political tensions can lead to demonstrations, and the security situation may deteriorate rapidly at any time in individual areas.

• Strikes, demonstrations and roadblocks may involve violence. Delays and travel disruption occur. During unrest, the authorities may impose curfews at short notice.

• During road or railway blockades and strikes, travellers are advised to enquire locally about alternative travel options and, if necessary, wait until conditions return to normal. The Swiss representations in New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore have very limited, and sometimes no, ability to help travellers leave affected regions.

• There is a risk of terrorist attacks throughout the country, particularly in major cities and tourist locations.

• Very large numbers of rapes and other sexual offences are committed throughout the country. Foreign nationals are also victims. Sexual harassment is very common, particularly on public transport and in large crowds.

• Petty crime is widespread. Violent assaults and robberies targeting taxi passengers can occur anywhere and at any time. Ethnically or religiously motivated violence also occurs, sometimes with fatal consequences. Kidnappings for ransom have occasionally been reported. So-called “express kidnappings” are also possible, in which victims are forced to withdraw cash and make purchases with their credit card.

• In Goa, armed robbery, fraud, drug-related crime and offences following chance encounters in bars are relatively common.

• Observe the following precautions throughout the country, among others:

  • Crime rates can vary considerably between places and neighbourhoods. Ask local contacts or your hotel about local conditions and neighbourhoods to avoid.

  • Do not wear valuables such as watches or jewellery, and carry only a small amount of money.

  • Stay alert in urban centres, tourist areas and markets, where theft is common.

  • Exercise particular caution on public transport and at railway stations because of theft, sexual offences and harassment.

  • Order taxis through the hotel reception. Avoid unnecessary journeys after dark. Preferably have your travel agency arrange airport transfers or use your hotel’s transfer service.

  • Be cautious if strangers offer you drinks or food. These may contain sedatives intended to facilitate robbery.

  • Be cautious and reserved when asked to pose together for photographs. Foreign nationals have repeatedly been harassed or assaulted under this pretext.

  • Pay close attention to security when choosing accommodation. Many guesthouses and small hotels have no security service.

  • Exercise particular caution in isolated places.

  • Do not go out alone at night.

  • Undertake trekking trips only in larger groups and with a recognised guide familiar with the area.

  • Women are advised to exercise increased caution, including when travelling in all-female groups. Harassment is less frequent when accompanied by men, but caution is still necessary.

  • Being accompanied by a recognised guide is advantageous in all cases.

  • Fraud by questionable local travel agencies has repeatedly been reported. Read contractual terms carefully and do not be pressured into signing. Reject offers from self-appointed guides.

  • Travel agencies can voluntarily register with the Ministry of Tourism. If you nevertheless experience fraud, you can lodge a complaint with the Ministry of Tourism: Travel Trade.

  • Pirate attacks have repeatedly occurred in Indian waters and the Indian Ocean. Consult the specific information on maritime risks and piracy.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -

• Driving licence: An international driving permit is compulsory. It is valid only together with your national driving licence and is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office of your canton of residence.

• Car hire: The minimum age for hiring a car is between 21 and 25, depending on the company. Hiring a vehicle with a driver is recommended.

• Traffic rules: Traffic drives on the left!

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.3 ‰. Avoid alcohol before driving.

• Other information: Intercity journeys at night are advised against in all cases. Road travel involves considerable risks. Most roads are in poor condition. Additional risks include unpredictable behaviour by many road users, poorly maintained vehicles, carts and wandering livestock.

• Long-distance trains: India’s rail network is one of the largest in the world, connecting almost all parts of the country. Long-distance trains are a popular and economical way to cover large distances. Classes range from basic seats to air-conditioned sleeper carriages. Book in advance, as trains are often heavily booked.

• Regional trains: Regional trains provide important links between cities and rural areas. They are cheaper but often slower and less comfortable than long-distance trains. They are suitable for shorter journeys and offer an authentic insight into daily life in India.

• Buses: Buses are a backbone of local transport, connecting cities, villages and rural areas. Public and private operators offer different comfort levels and fares. Major cities often have inexpensive urban bus services.

• Metro / tram: Large cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata have modern, clean and fast metro systems.

• Tickets: Train and bus tickets can be bought online, at railway stations or at bus stations. Metro systems offer electronic tickets or rechargeable cards. Book long-distance train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods.

• Other information: Rickshaws, tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are widely used for short journeys in many cities. Agree the fare before travelling, as they generally have no meter. Taxi and ride-hailing apps such as Ola and Uber are available in most major cities and offer convenient transport.

• Good to know: Parts of the railway infrastructure are outdated and have repeatedly contributed to serious accidents. In June 2023, a serious train accident with numerous fatalities occurred in Odisha. Safety measures on tourist boats, shipping services and ferries are often inadequate, with overcrowding and insufficient equipment.

Below is a list of India’s main international airports:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi: Direct flights from Zurich.

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai: Direct flights from Zurich.

• Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru: Direct flights from Zurich announced from October 2026; connections with a stopover until then.

• Chennai International Airport (MAA), Chennai: Connections from Switzerland with a stopover.

The main airlines operating in India include Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

General emergency number: 112

Embassy of Switzerland
Nyaya Marg
Chanakyapuri
New Delhi 110 021

Tel. +91 11 4995 9500
Email: newdelhi@eda.admin.ch

Specific regional risks

• Descriptions of danger zones are approximate; risks cannot be confined to precisely defined areas.

• Border region with Pakistan: Travel to the entire border region with Pakistan continues to be advised against. Parts of the border are mined. An exception is the only border crossing between India and Pakistan permitted for foreign nationals, at Wagah between Amritsar and Lahore. Ask the local authorities or the border post directly about opening hours.

• Jammu and Kashmir: Travel to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, including the Kashmir Valley, is advised against. On 5 August 2019, the Indian government revoked the special status granting Jammu and Kashmir partial autonomy. The government restricts freedom of assembly and movement. Security forces maintain a strong presence. The situation is tense and its development uncertain. The conflict with Pakistan over the disputed border region and with various independence movements continues. Armed incidents may occur along the ceasefire line (Line of Control). Political, ethnic and religious tensions are high. Periods of apparent calm can be interrupted at any time by unrest or violence. There is also a risk of attacks: in August 2022, several people were injured in a grenade attack near a public park in Srinagar. In March 2022, an explosion at a market in Srinagar and another outside the district court building in Udhampur (Jammu) killed two people and injured numerous others. In October 2021, seven people were shot dead, including two teachers at a public school in Srinagar, and several people were injured in an explosion in a street in Bandipore (Kashmir). The armed forces have special powers: they may, for example, arrest people without a warrant or fire on people who disregard public order. During unrest, they use live ammunition, impose curfews and interrupt mobile phone and internet connections.

• Ladakh: Travel to Ladakh only by air or along the direct main road from Manali to Leh. Avoid travel via Jammu and Kashmir (see above) and give the border regions and ceasefire line with Pakistan and China a wide berth; armed incidents occasionally occur there.

• North-East: Travel to the states of Manipur and Nagaland is advised against. Increased caution is needed in the other parts of the North-East. Clashes between ethnic groups in Manipur regularly cause deaths and injuries. Other parts of the North-East also experience localised, time-limited fighting between Indian security forces and rebels from different ethnic groups, most often in Nagaland and in the border areas between Assam and Mizoram. Bystanders may also be affected. For example, in December 2021, 14 civilians were killed during a military operation in Mon district (Nagaland). Sporadic armed clashes between different ethnic communities occur particularly in remote areas. Attacks have repeatedly been carried out, for example on markets and railways. In May 2021, an attack in a shopping street in Digboi (Assam) killed one person and injured several others. Demonstrations may involve violence. Strikes are frequently accompanied by traffic blockades that can cause supply shortages and disrupt travel. In parts of the North-East, the armed forces have special powers: they may arrest people without warrants or fire on people who disregard public order. Check the security situation in the media and with your tour operator before and during travel. Be accompanied by a trusted person familiar with local conditions. Follow the local authorities’ instructions, including curfews, and avoid demonstrations of any kind. Special permits are required to visit certain parts of the North-East; see the special information.

• Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal: Maoist or Naxalite groups are active in remote areas of these states and temporarily control individual areas. The Indian government classifies these groups as banned terrorist organisations. They repeatedly sabotage infrastructure, including railways. Particularly in Chhattisgarh, attacks on villagers and authorities regularly cause deaths and injuries. In April 2023, a bomb attack in Arnapur killed 11 people. Kidnappings cannot be ruled out. Tourist travel is occasionally prohibited in individual areas. Ask the local authorities before and during your trip about the current security situation and areas that must not be visited. Exercise extreme caution and follow the local authorities’ instructions.

Special legal provisions

• Legal rules can differ considerably between states. Ask local contacts or your hotel about locally applicable provisions, or contact the Indian embassy in Bern.

• Alcohol consumption laws vary between states: age limits differ, some states prohibit alcohol entirely, such as Gujarat, and others allow consumption only with a permit, such as Maharashtra.

• Satellite phones, radio-controlled drones, GPS and similar devices may be used only with permission from the Indian authorities. These rules also differ between states. Violations are punishable by imprisonment.

• The following, among other things, are punishable throughout the country:

  • Smoking in public spaces.

  • Importing e-cigarettes and similar products. This can result in imprisonment and/or heavy fines.

  • Insulting, misusing or damaging the Indian flag.

  • Disrespectful statements or actions concerning the Indian Constitution.

  • Photographing military installations and public structures, such as airports and bridges.

  • Drug law offences are punished by many years of imprisonment, even for the smallest quantities and any type of drug, with no possibility of a pardon.

  • The death penalty can be imposed for serious offences, such as murder, robbery causing grievous bodily harm or gang rape.

  • Legal proceedings may take years. Detention conditions are precarious, including overcrowded cells and poor hygiene.

  • Mountain ascents require approval from the central government. Make sure the expedition leadership follows all regulations, including insurance requirements for any mountain rescue. Further information is available from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.

Natural hazards

• Earthquakes can occur throughout the country. The northern half is considered particularly vulnerable. Tsunamis caused by earthquakes in South-East Asia can also reach India.

• During the summer monsoon, from June to September/October, very heavy rain may occur. It can cause flooding, landslides, mud and debris flows and infrastructure damage. Conditions can change very rapidly, especially near rivers.

• The east coast is repeatedly hit by severe cyclones, particularly from October to December, causing flooding and devastation.

• Travel may be disrupted for extended periods. Stay in contact with your tour operator and follow weather forecasts and the local authorities’ warnings and instructions. Undertake trekking trips with an experienced local guide.

• Information about natural disasters and recommended behaviour: National Disaster Management Authority

• Tsunami early warning system: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services

• Indian weather service: India Meteorological Department

• Do not underestimate the symptoms of altitude sickness in the Himalayas.

• If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your relatives as soon as possible and follow the local authorities’ instructions. If international communications are interrupted, contact the nearest Swiss representation: the embassy in New Delhi or the consulate general in Mumbai or Bengaluru.