US issues 'do not travel' advisory for J&K

The US on April 23 issued a 'do not travel' advisory for J&K (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) "due to terrorism and civil unrest." It has also asked Americans not to travel "within 10km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict."

"Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in J&K. Do not travel to this state. Violence happens sporadically in this area and is common along LOC between India and Pakistan. It also occurs in tourist spots in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Indian govt does not allow foreign tourists to visit certain areas along LOC," the India travel advisory says.

"India and Pakistan have a strong military presence on both sides of the border. ...Only US citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise, apply for a Pakistani visa in your home country before traveling to India," it adds.