Travel Alert Elevated
The UK Foreign Office has published an urgent India travel alert after the Pahalgam terror attack, strictly advising British nationals against traveling within 10km of the India-Pakistan border and recommending “extreme caution” in Jammu & Kashmir. The travel warning is released as India is stepping up counterterror operations in the area.
Main UK Travel Restrictions
Tight Border Prohibition: No travel within 10km of India-Pakistan LoC/IB (including Wagah).
J&K Warnings: Stay away from non-essential travel to Pahalgam, Srinagar, Anantnag.
Delhi Precautions: Increased terror threat in capital – stay away from crowded bazaars.
What This Means for Tourists
Amarnath Yatra Impact: UK pilgrims strongly advised against participating.
Flight Changes: British Airways offering free rebooking to India-bound travelers.
Insurance Void: Most policies will not cover accidents in restricted areas.
India’s Security Response
• NSG Commandos deployed at major Kashmir tourist sites.
• AI Surveillance: Drones monitoring 50km radius around attack zones.
• UK Diplomacy: High Commission coordinating with MHA on threat levels.
Alternative Travel Options
1. Himachal Pradesh: Dharamshala/McLeodganj deemed “low risk”.
2. Southern India: Kerala backwaters & Karnataka safaris recommended.
3. Cultural Swap: Rajasthan’s forts for Kashmir’s valleys at least for now.
British citizens in Kashmir urged to sign up with UK FCDO’s LOCATE service without delay.
Critical Contacts
UK India Emergency Line: +91 11 2419 2100
FCDO Kashmir Helpline: 020 7008 5000
