Is Lucknow safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for India

What the advice says

• The US State Department places India at Level 2, "Exercise Increased Caution," a rating that applies to the whole country rather than to Lucknow specifically.
• UK FCDO advice notes that terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed operate in parts of India, with a heightened risk in some regions, though this guidance is also given at the country level.
• Demonstrations, strikes, and political rallies happen frequently across India and can turn violent, so travelers should avoid protests and large gatherings and follow local authority guidance.
• Pickpockets, scammers, and ticket touts target foreign nationals in tourist areas, and valuables can be snatched by people riding past on motorbikes, so keeping a close watch on belongings is advised.
• The FCDO notes a risk of sexual assault against female visitors in tourist areas and cities, including verbal and physical harassment, and recommends avoiding isolated areas when alone, especially after dark.
• Reports of spiked food and drinks, as well as methanol poisoning in alcoholic drinks, mean travelers should avoid accepting drinks from strangers and never leave drinks unattended.
• If a crime occurs, the FCDO text gives the police helpline as 100, the national emergency number as 112, and a women's helpline at 1091.