Every once in a while, we all crave to shove our daily routines of life and run away from people and duties around us. This is seen to be common among men but very rare for women. But things are changing, and many are opting for female solo travel in India. It has nothing to do with the warmest people around us. It is just that there are times when we girls prefer to spend some quality time with ourselves and to let us fall in love with ourselves.
To be independent and explore every corner of a new city without anyone second-guessing our decisions is a dream come true for us girls. Solo travel is empowering. It enables one to embark on a journey of self-discovery. However, for a very long time, India has been regarded as an unsafe place, especially for women. That is why we were often stopped from venturing out alone. But things have changed, and for good. Solo travel experiences for females in India have been gaining momentum in recent times.
These are just a few places in India meant for safe female solo travel that you might want to discover all by yourself:-
1. Ladakh
Ladakh is one of the ideal places for females travelling solo. Huge snow-covered mountains, arid plains, serene valleys, a cold desert, and the crystal blue waters of Pangong Lake are what make Ladakh one of the best destinations in India. Located in the heart of the Himalayas, Ladakh is truly a paradise on earth. Some popular destinations to explore in Ladakh are –
- The Deskit Monastery,
- Nubra valley,
- Shanti Stupa,
- Double-humped camel rides,
- Pangong Lake,
- Star watching at night
How to reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Ladakh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Jammu Tawi, followed by a road trip (708 km long). It is better to fly and save time as one has to stay at Leh to acclimatize to the environment and altitude.
- By Road: A lot of people prefer to ride on bullet bikes all the way from Chandigarh to Ladakh via Manali & Jispa, and they are considered to have one of the most memorable rides in life.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is known as the Scotland of India. It is one of the most visited hill stations in Karnataka. Home to three wildlife sanctuaries, the pleasant little hill station lies between the arms of the western ghats, 300 km from Bangalore. Despite being crowded all year long, Coorg is one of the safest destinations for female solo travel. Some of Coorg’s must-visit places are –
- Raja’s seat,
- Abbi falls,
- Nisargadhama, and
- Tadiandamol Peak is the perfect place for nature and coffee lovers.
How to reach:
- By Air: Either land at Bangalore airport or Mangalore airport, from which you can board a bus or hire a taxi.
- By Train: The closest railway station is in Mysore.
Sikkim
Buried deep in the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is like the ‘abode of God’ itself, with untouched surroundings, pleasant summers, snowy winters, incredible places to visit, and rich Buddhist culture. To visit the northern parts of the state, you will need a government permit, but all of the formalities won’t seem like a hassle when you explore the paradise that is Sikkim.
Must visits are –
- Gurudongmar Lake,
- Yumthang Valley,
- Tsongmo Lake,
- Yuksom,
- Nathu La,
- Gangtok,
- Pelling,
- Singalila National Park,
- Goecha La,
- Rumtek Monastery,
- Do Drul Chorten.
How to reach:
- By air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport. You can book a car from there to your hotel in Sikkim or take a bus. You can also take a helicopter ride.
- By Train: The nearest station is the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. There are many options by road from there.
- By Road: Once you reach Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri, you can travel by road. You can even reach Siliguri by bus or car from Kolkata.
Pondicherry:
Pondicherry is famous for its peaceful ambience and picturesque beaches. Its French-inspired culture and streets, Parisian cafes, colourful houses, and quiet, serene environment attract many soul searchers. Relaxing on its shores, visiting ashrams, cycling tours, and pub hopping are some incredible experiences that female travellers look for in Pondicherry. The must-visit place is Auroville, the safest place without any politics or religion.
How to reach:
- By Air: The closest airport is Chennai International Airport. You can book a cab or a car to reach Pondicherry.
- By Train: Villupuram Junction railway station is the nearest railway station.
- By Road: You can book a car from Bengaluru and go to Pondicherry. There are many options like this in other neighbouring cities.
Goa:
When talking about female solo travel, you can never ignore Goa. From lazing around on beaches, indulging in adventure sports, and partying like crazy all night and day to exploring its architectural wonders, churches, and wildlife, and eating amazing seafood – there are endless things to do in Goa. You might want to plan a longer holiday than a quick getaway because, after all, it’s Goa! Must-visit places in Goa are –
- Baga Beach,
- Aguada Fort,
- Basilica of Bom Jesus,
- Dudhsagar Falls,
- Anjuna Beach,
- Calangute Beach,
- Se Cathedral,
- Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception,
- Sinquerim Beach
How to reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport serves as the main gateway for both domestic and international flights. The new Manohar International Airport, built at Mopa, North Goa, started its commercial operations on January 5, 2023. Most flights plying to Goa from Indian cities are direct and operated by IndiGo, GoAir, and SpiceJet.
- By Train: Goa enjoys extensive rail connectivity with the rest of the country. Goa has two major railway stations, Madgao and Vasco-da-Gama, both located in the southern area of the state.
- By Road: Goa is connected with all the major towns in India via the National Highways NH4A, NH17, and NH17A. In most places along the way, the highway roads are in excellent condition and motorable at fairly good speeds.
Solo Travel Safety Tips for India
But if you are a female travelling solo – you need to keep these things in mind –
- Research thoroughly about the place you are visiting, gathering knowledge about the locals, their culture, and the region you are staying in for your own safety.
- Avoid public transport and book a car or two-wheelers.
- Choose accommodations with good reviews that are solo-friendly.
- Get along with the staff, as they can be very helpful.
- At night, try to visit crowded places.
- Be proactive and confident, as that will keep unnecessary attention away.
- Stay alert and cautious of your surroundings.
- Carry all essentials and maintain hygiene. Keep a notepad handy with a to-do list and a not-to-do list too.
So, all you lovely ladies out there, I am sure by now you are super excited and feeling like booking the tickets, packing your bags, and just leaving all the work and tension behind and travelling solo. Well, I surely do! So, what are you waiting for? You must have a travel bucket list! Share the list in the comments section. Let’s find out how many of them have been checked.
