Can I Drink Tap Water in India?

India's tap water is widely contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and harmful chemicals including arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates. Over 70% of surface water is unsafe for direct consumption. Only 2% of Indian households receive drinkable quality water from local supplies. Most residents rely on home water purifiers (RO filters, boiling, or filtration). Municipal treatment is inconsistent, with aging infrastructure and inadequate sanitation. Foreign travelers face significant health risks from waterborne pathogens. Bottled water is readily available in major cities and is the safest option.

India faces a severe water safety crisis with multiple contamination sources. The Central Pollution Control Board reports over 350 polluted river stretches. Groundwater contains dangerous levels of nitrates (exceeding safe limits in 56% of districts), fluoride (9.04% of samples), and arsenic (3.55% of samples). Surface water is polluted by industrial discharge, sewage, and agricultural runoff containing pesticides and fertilizers. Heavy metal contamination from arsenic, lead, iron, and copper is prevalent. A 2024 Central Ground Water Board report found uranium in some samples. The health impact is severe: approximately 200,000 people die annually from inadequate access to safe water, and over 5,500 fell ill with 34 deaths reported from contaminated tap water in the past year. Water treatment in most municipalities relies on basic chlorination, which is insufficient against many contaminants. Travelers and locals typically use bottled water, boiling, or home RO systems for safety.

Never drink tap water in India, including in hotels and restaurants. Stick exclusively to sealed bottled water from reputable brands like Bisleri, Aquafina, or Kinley. Avoid ice in drinks and tap water for dental hygiene. The only exception is Mumbai, where tap water occasionally meets safety standards, though caution is still advised. Most guesthouses and hotels provide RO-filtered or UV-purified water, which is safer. Stomach issues from contaminated water are extremely common among travelers, so prevention is essential.