India is a diverse land filled with a variety of destinations found nowhere else. People come and love to take solo trips across different states and cities, but not women. Yes, it is quite unfortunate that women are unable to explore India to its fullest while being safe. The safety risk is increased if a woman is travelling solo. The recent cases have made many female tourists come to India.
However, it’s only one side of the picture. Several tourist attractions in India are popular yet safe to explore. Through this blog, we will explore solo travel for women in India. It includes my personal insights and experiences of travelers across the globe.
Is solo travelling safe for women?
Solo travelling is an amazing experience wherein you are independent and free to make a choice. Exploration comes without any barriers or restrictions, making this experience empowering. Despite the growing popularity of this culture, women tend to hesitate to take a step forward. We cannot blame them either, as the majority of cities in our country are quite unsafe.
Yes, a few cities are better, but there is always a concern that awaits. So, we cannot actually conclude that it is safe to travel solo, as it mainly depends on the place, the situation, and the conditions.
How can women travel safely in India?
There isn’t a definite answer to this question. It is a mix of answers that varies from individual to individual. But there are certain things that women can take care of while travelling solo to ensure safety. These are certain tips that everyone recommends and suggests, regardless of the place you are travelling. They are non-negotiable rules.
Tips to remember-
1. Always keep your phone charged.
Make sure that whenever you are travelling, your devices, especially your mobile phone, are fully charged. Even if it is charged, always keep your charger or power bank handy for an emergency situation.
I personally prefer a power bank as it is easier to use and doesn’t need a power source. Travelling can be unpredictable, and power sources or charging points are not available at all times. That is why a power bank is a perfect backup option.
2. Stay at reliable places-
While booking your homestay or hotel for solo travel for women, always try to verify the details and ensure it is a reliable place. It is always better to choose online booking from trusted websites.
Even when booking online, make sure to check the rating and reviews of the place before booking. It is quite easy to get scammed, especially as a solo traveller in India. So, make sure you verify every detail of the place you stay.
3. Keep your emergency contact active
This is a lifesaver tip. No matter where we are, a few trusted emergency contact numbers are essential and must be handy. An emergency can strike at any time during solo travel, so it’s always better to be aware.
4. Trust your instinct
In case you end up in an emergency, always trust your instinct and preparedness. Keep a few essentials like pepper spray handy with you to use in extreme cases. The first thing to do in such cases is never to panic or fear. Trust yourself and try your best to defend yourself.
Immediately contact the emergency contact and try to reach a safe place.
5. Stay in crowded and safe spaces
Usually, crowded areas in any tourist place are safer in comparison to isolated areas. It is better to avoid spaces that feel unsafe and stranded. If you find it difficult to navigate on your own, always seek help from loved ones and trusted guides. Many places in India have government-authorised guides that are reliable and affordable as well.
6. Be aware of your surroundings
Always be cautious of what is happening around you. As travelling solo for women can be a bit more challenging, there is a safety concern. Nobody will be looking after your safety; hence, it becomes essential to be aware of your surroundings. Being alert is a lifesaver in case of solo travelling for women.
7. Never trust random strangers
It’s often difficult to navigate individually, as the place we’ll be travelling to is new. The road feels alien. The locations are difficult to track. Most travellers try to take help form loclas. This is an unsafe practice, as a stranger who ight be sweet might not be safe. Alay tried to reach out to trusted guides for help, not strangers.
Best places for solo travel for women
These are the top 10 cities in India that are perfect for a solo traveller for women.
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
If you want to explore spirituality and mysticism aside from the ghats of the Ganga, then this place is perfect for you and is quite safe while being extremely affordable.
2. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
A coastal city with both beaches and mountains. I personally would recommend this, as i have as i have lived in this city. It is very safe and beautiful for exploration.
3. Panaji, Goa
Another beach place with a chill and related vibe. Several female tourists describe it as one of the safest places in India for a holiday.
4. Munnar, Kerala
A calm hill station away from the city, with many reliable homestays and resorts.
5. Mysore, Karnataka
This is one of India’s safest and cleanest cities, known for its royal grandeur and royal city vibe.
6. Shillong, Meghalaya
A place close to nature, Meghalaya perfect for solo travel and adventure.
7. Kochi, Kerala
The food capital of Kerala is known for its colourful streets and ancient forts. It quiet unddertaed but spots for chill cafes and photography. Best for solo travel for women in India, where you can freely roam.
8. Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Another hill station in the beautiful Doon Valley of Uttarakhand, amidst nature. This is perfect for trekking and exercise as well.
9. Jodhpur, Rajasthan
City of kings and royalty, filled with Rajputana places and beautiful architecture representing our heritage. It is ideal for a Solo exploration of Rajasthan
10. Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Heritage city in Gujarat with stunning architecture and culture. The local delicacies are a must-try.
wrap it up
Despite challenges existing, the beauty is that we can overcome them. Travelling solo for women is one such thing. Initially, it might feel intimidating; however, as we begin the journey, it starts to feel empowering as we make memories.
