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Safer Parts of India for Solo Women Travellers in India

India has recently been put under the limelight for its many cases of rapes. Naturally, solo female travellers would try to stay away from this country.

But let me tell you that not all states in India are like that. You don’t have to miss out on your Indian trip because of fear. Pack your bags right now because I’m going to let you know about the best and safest places for you to travel in India.

1. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Naini Lake
Naini Lake. Photo by Dipankar Ghosh.

Nainital is a popular hill station in India. Just like all other hill stations, Nainital is famous for its beautiful mountains and greenery. But it’s not just that which attracts tourists to this place.

Nainital is extremely famous for its lake. This lake, called as the Naini lake, is visited by hundreds of tourists every day. Seven hills surround the lake, and this makes it look like a piece of heaven. Besides this, the Naina Devi Temple in Nainital is also well-known. It is built at the top of a hill and dates back to many centuries. Also, the Bhimtal Lake here, is worth a visit.

The local people of Nainital are very warm and hospitable. There are heritage homes as well as hotels in the region where you can comfortably stay. For a calm and undisturbed getaway (not to mention safe), Nainital is the place for you.

2. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Houses in Pondicherry
Houses in Pondicherry. Photo by jay8085.

It is a district in Tamil Nadu and the largest union territory of India. It was a French settlement until 1954, but even after independence, it does seem that Pondicherry can never get over its French history. It is still called the France of India. So much so, that some people still converse in French here. The entire district has a striking resemblance to France.

Relish your time by walking in the narrow lanes of the city with old French buildings surrounding you. You can spend your time in the large French quarters. The elegance and grace that France is known for are still intact here. The city also has many beaches with restaurants dotting at its sides.

Also, don’t forget to visit the Aurobindo Ashram and Matrimandir in Pondicherry. This city is very safe for women.

3. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Valleys of Shimla
Valleys of Shimla. Photo by Prashant Ram.

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh, and it’s the perfect place to go off for a vacation in summer. Shimla was the capital of the British during the summer season back in the colonial period.

Located at the height of 2200 m, Shimla is surrounded by ice-capped mountains and forests. But that does not mean that you will be devoid of any facilities whatsoever. It is by far, one of the cleanest cities in India. There are all kinds of shops here, even some famous brands like Woodland. Honeymoon couples and tourists swarm the city, and thus, there are a large number of accommodations available. So you can look forward to having a comfortable stay here.

There are a lot of things to see in Shimla besides enjoying the cold breeze and breathing in that fresh air. There are many temples here, some even older than a century. There is also a toy train going from Shimla to Kalka which you should board because the scenic beauty on the way is pleasing to the eyes.

Because of the constant crowd due to it being the most famous hill station of India, Shimla can be safely deemed as one of the perfect places for a solo woman traveller.

4. Sikkim

Yumthang Valley in Sikkim
Yumthang Valley in Sikkim. Photo by Shayon Ghosh.

The North-Eastern states of India have always shown the lowest crime rates in the country. These may be the safest places for a woman to travel alone.

Travelling in a safe place alone isn’t enough. There has to be something to see there. Well, Sikkim is gifted with all the beauty of the world. High hills, spectacular valleys, magnificent rivers and very loving people are some of the perks of visiting Sikkim. You can also find that this state boasts of a rich culture. There are many Buddhist monasteries worth visiting here.

Make sure to include Sikkim on your travel list.

5. Dzukou Valley

As I stated above, there is no place better than North-East. This breathtaking valley is another must-visit place.

It is located on the border of Manipur and Nagaland. Also known as the Valley of Flowers, this picturesque valley is like a piece of a child’s wildest dreams. After a lot of trekking through the rainforest, several bumpy ups and downs and following the trail, you will be rewarded with this beautiful haven. Every inch of these hills is covered with green grass. There is a mist always surrounding the hills, and the best part is that the valley is filled with flowers. There are flowers of every possible colour in there, and it’s a delight to watch.

In fact, the trekking is not even a bad part because, on the way, there are plenty of small waterfalls and streams to refresh your body and soul. This place has remained untouched by human technology in any manner, and it’s wonderful to experience this bliss.

There are two villages nearby, namely Zakhama and Viswema, from which you can start your trek. There is no shortage of accommodations because a lot of people visit this place. So don’t worry about trekking alone through the forest as there will probably be 30-40 people along with you.

5. Rajasthan

Jal Mahal in Jaipur
Jal Mahal in Jaipur. Photo by Arian Zwegers.

Rajasthan is a paradise for the lovers of history. Each city of Rajasthan, including Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaipur contains numerous forts and palaces, speaking of a vibrant history of this state. The ancient culture is still kept alive here by its many stories and folklore.

It is the largest state in India but don’t let that fool you into thinking that it’s unsafe. Most areas of Rajasthan are still villages, and therefore, you will meet some of the best people here.

Rajasthan can provide you everything from small hotels to luxury resorts for accommodation. The state is usually filled with tourists all the time and therefore, you will never feel lonely here.

If you love forts, you might be interested in reading about The 6 Oldest Forts of India.

6. Khajuraho Temples

Some temples in the Khajuraho temple complex
Some temples in the Khajuraho temple complex. Photo by Steven dosRemedios.

Just stay away from pesky vendors and guides, and Khajuraho is a good place to explore.

The Khajuraho Temple is one among the group of temples within the Khajuraho Group of Monuments.

The complex and monuments are declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it consists of both Jain and Hindu temples. Built between 10th and 12th century, the architectural expertise portrayed on the walls of these temples are just incredible. Images of female deities or women are carved on the walls with sexuality and eroticism being the major theme. In a world where representing sexuality is taboo now, these temples speak a different story altogether. The temples are nothing less than impressive.

By Merlin Chacko

Currently studying English Literature at Delhi University. Obsessed with Harry Potter and NOT Shakespeare. I believe that nothing nourishes the soul like books and travelling. Constantly amazed by the Indian culture and its history. Personally feel that the old forts and ruined palaces in India are almost magical.

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