India as a travel destination has always been a treasure of places rich in culture, heritage, unexplored beauty and of course the cuisine. Not only local tourist but also people from all across the globe consider India as one of the hottest destinations of travel. The surprising fact is that many among the travellers are woman traveller who is opting India as part of their bucket list despite safety is being a concern in few areas. Recent times things have been improving as far as tourism in India for female travellers is considered.
Whether you are a vivid traveller planning a solo trip to India or simply looking out for “ME” without your girlfriends, never hesitate considering places in India. Here I would be jotting down few named destinations of India which are always welcoming for a women traveller.
5 Destinations in India for a solo female trip:
Hampi:
Famously known as the ancient village this quaint little-hidden town is extremely safe and popular is being women-friendly. The best place to revisit the ruins all by yourself in its natural surroundings. Being considered as UNESCO world heritage site is apt to relax and rejuvenate oneself. Cheap accommodations, easy to reach and great places to pay a visit, Hampi has it all.
Must Do’s:
- Opt for cottage stays in rice fields.
- Soak in the views from Matanga Hill
- Visit religious sites of Vithala Temple complex and Monkey Temple
- Cross the river to visit the Hippie Island
Puducherry:
Looking out for some sole beach fun, what better place than the Union territory of Puducherry. This serene place is perfect to get a glimpse of French settlement in India in its colonial buildings and narrow lanes. The captivating part of this destination is a township of Auroville to which people from all across the globe flock to live and volunteer. This is what makes it safe and secure for any female traveller opting for Puducherry.
Must Do’s:
- Visit Matri Mandir in Auroville for some meditation
- Take a boat ride to the famous Paradise Beach
- Visit its age-old cafes and restaurants
- Spend your evening relaxing in the lively beach of Promenade
- To get touch with your spiritual side, visit the Aurobindo Ashram.
Leh Ladakh:
If you are an adventure enthusiast, then trip to Leh Ladakh is what you are looking for. Coming under Tibetan Buddhist influence, this laid destination is over welcoming to female travellers. From homestays, local Ladhaki cuisines to trekking routes are among the named few things which Leh-Ladakh has to offer. Being cut off for about 6 months from rest part of India can become really crowded in remain months of the year. Despite it, all the majestic mountain ranges and crystal blue lakes make it a must-visit destination.
Must Do’s:
- Sleep under the stars while camping in Leh
- Try the camel safari or Quad biking in Nubra Valley
- Do some monastery hopping
- Pay a visit to the famous Pangong lake
Arunachal Pradesh:
The north-east part of India has always been widely known for its untouched picturesque beauty. One such unexplored hidden jewel is the Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh which is once in a lifetime experience. From lush green rice fields to rustic habitats of this valley makes an ideal destination for travel among solo female travellers across the globe. Just looking out to explore some hidden alluring places of India on your own, Ziro Valley is your destination.
Must Do’s:
- Get in touch with the culture, opt for homestays
- Visit the rice farms
- Head to the Hapoli market for some unusual local delicacies
- Take a guided tour of the villages such as Hong, Siiro, Hari etc.
Varanasi:
You are a solo female traveller looking out to get in touch with your religious and spirituality, I would say Varanasi it is. As strange as the fact that a North Indian place being safe for females as it sounds, the much truthful it is. Even though it can be a challenging place in itself and yet is opted among many female travellers due to soaking in Hindu culture. It is considered the holiest place in India and is considered the gateway to heaven. People visit this place in the final days of their life. As saddening as it sounds, yet the place is lively in its own ways. From the very famous River, Ganga Ghats to narrow lanes filled with local cafes and bakeries is what makes this place filled with colour. Visiting this place alone would definitely bring in the transformation of life one is looking for.
Must Do’s:
- Attend the famous aarti in the banks of the River Ganga every evening
- Try out the yoga and massage centres
- Take an early morning or dusk boat ride in River Ganga
- Visit the historical Ramnagar Fort of Varanasi
What is waiting for? Pick a location and head down alone for some fun and exploration. Being a woman never feel restricted as far as travel enthusiasm is considered, India has definitely open doors for safe women tourism!!