As a seasoned traveller with over 25 years of experience exploring India, including 13 years living in the country (alone) I have gained a wealth of knowledge and insight into navigating this incredible nation as a solo female. From running a lodge in Kanha National Park to living in bustling cities like Jaipur and Delhi, I have embraced the challenges and rewards of immersing myself in Indian culture. Throughout my journey, I have learned valuable lessons and developed a deep understanding of what it takes to travel safely and confidently as a woman in India. While my experiences have been largely positive, thanks in part to my never having really been a budget traveller, my “don’t mess with me” demeanour and a bit of luck, I recognize that every traveller’s journey is unique and some people may have had very different experiences.
However, India is the most extraordinary and welcoming country which should be experienced, so, here are some of my top tips for solo female travelers in India, drawing from my personal experiences and the wisdom gained from over two decades of exploring this captivating country that I actually refer to as, ‘My Mistress!’
- Dress conservatively and respectfully: I always think that whilst as women, we should be entitled to wear whatever we want, I also believe that it is respectful to consider local sensibilities when it comes to dress sense whilst traveling. It is also a prerequisite for entering temples and some monuments. When sightseeing and out and about in towns and villages, I would always strongly recommend keeping your shoulders, arms, and legs covered to show respect for local customs and to avoid unwanted attention. Remember that many Indian men may have limited exposure to women wearing revealing clothing, so dressing modestly is not only a matter of safety but also a sign of cultural respect. Top tip: Carry a dupatta or shawl with you as it can be used to cover up when needed, it will also mean that you are prepared for unexpected temples etc and will mean you don’t have to miss out.
- Be prepared for staring (!!) In India, staring is a common occurrence, almost a national past-time, and whilst we may feel uncomfortable about this, do remember that it is invariably done out of curiosity, with no malice intended. As a solo female traveler, you may find yourself being stared at more frequently, especially if you are fair or blonde. I used to be a red head (ahh, the good old days) and have freckles, my family are all very blonde, neither of which have been seen in many off beat areas. We get stared at, a lot! But think of it this way, we’re invariably also staring at them, the way they are dressed, their appearance etc – it’s kind of a quid pro quo – although to be fair, we try and glance surreptitiously (usually) the Indian stare is something else entirely! Learn to ignore it and walk with confidence. Remember that the staring is rarely threatening, but if you ever feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
- Be firm and assertive when necessary: When dealing with touts, salespeople, or anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable, it is essential to be firm and assertive. Don’t feel obligated to be polite or engage in conversation if you don’t want to. A simple “no” or even ignoring them completely is often the most effective way to discourage unwanted attention. Remember, your safety and comfort should always be your top priority.
- Embrace your unique status! As a solo female traveller in India, you may be seen as an anomaly, and people will likely be curious about your background, marital status, and reasons for traveling alone. While it’s essential to be cautious about sharing personal information, don’t be afraid to engage in friendly conversations with locals when you feel comfortable doing so. These interactions can lead to valuable insights into Indian culture and may even result in lasting friendships! I often joke about the time it takes a stranger on a train to ask me three set questions, these being, “Your country? Your good name? You are married?” It’s usually under 5 minutes! Again, consider the culture you are travelling in. It is only in this generation that Indian females have started traveling solo and that too, mainly just from an educated and city background, for many people you will encounter, this is beyond their level of comprehension. Another cultural anomaly that can lead to some wonderful conversations and memorable moments.
- Use common sense and take precautions: Just as you would in any unfamiliar city, it’s crucial to use common sense and take basic safety precautions when traveling solo in India. Avoid walking alone late at night, be cautious when accepting rides or invitations from strangers, and wherever possible let someone know your whereabouts. Carry a working mobile phone with emergency contacts, and the number of the hotel you are staying at.
- Join an activity! One of the greatest joys of solo travel is the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Particularly in cities now there are a whole host of companies offering fun and fascinating walking tours, market visits and cookery demonstrations, morning or evening group yoga, Bollywood dance classes, block printing experiences, cycle rides, half day treks – the list is endless. Check out some options here: Fun Things to do!
- Consider booking through a reputable tour operator: If you’re new to solo travel or feel more comfortable with a structured itinerary, consider booking through a reputable tour operator that specializes in solo female travel. They can arrange homestays, activities, and transportation tailored to your interests and comfort level, providing an extra layer of support and security throughout your journey. Or join a group tour.
- Choose your accommodation wisely: When selecting a place to stay, consider factors such as location, safety, and reputation. I tend to vary between two types of hotels:
On the one hand I love homestays and small, family run boutique hotels, they not only often provide a more secure and supportive environment, but are personally hosted so that you can feel a part of the family, experience as well as learn about the local culture, and easily meet fellow travellers. They also tend to be more affordable than larger hotels and so single supplements aren’t prohibitive.
On the other hand, sometimes I like to feel a little more anonymous and just want some chill time when I don’t want to be sociable. In this instance I prefer a larger, more international standard of hotel, where one can lose oneself in a crowd, and can just think sod it and order room service – sometimes I find this to be a real luxury! These hotels often have women only floors.
Top tip: Read reviews from other solo female travelers and trust your instincts when making a decision. If a place doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to look for an alternative. Don’t be embarrassed to do this, or feel like you are offending anyone – you will never see these people again and your safety is more important.
- Dining alone: The one thing I see coming up time and again is about the ’embarrassment,’ of dining alone. This is something I’ve come to really enjoy. When walking into a restaurant and the waiter asks, ‘Just you/one?’ My answer is, “Yes, absolutely!’ or “Too bloody right!” My preferred seating choice is a corner, I don’t feel that I’m hidden away, but they are the perfect vantage point for people watching. I always take a book and a journal. If one can’t relive the day by chatting to someone then writing it all down is a wonderful way to remember the day, and will provide you with memories to read again at a later time. However, if I’m being honest, people watching usually takes over, perhaps I’m just nosey!
- Above all, trust your instincts and prioritize your well-being: If a situation, person, or place doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from it and seek help if needed. Remember that your safety and well-being should always be your top priority. Don’t feel pressured to do anything that makes you uncomfortable, and always have a plan in place for emergencies, such as keeping the number of your driver or hotel handy.
Traveling solo as a female in India is an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and diverse culture, meet fascinating people, and push your own boundaries. Approach it with the mindset, and respect for local customs, trust in your own strength and resilience and remember India is waiting to welcome you with open arms and to take you on a journey that will stay with you long after your trip has ended.
Contact: Philippa@indianexperiences.com
Whatsapp: +447966025330
Philippa is founder of Indian Experiences and author of Escape to India