We all dream of traveling solo at least once in our life. To be independent and explore every corner of a new city without anyone second-guessing our decisions is a dream come true. Solo travel is empowering and 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 female solo travel, and has often stopped them from venturing out alone. To keep the travel bug in you alive, Wander Womaniya has prepared a list of some of the safest destinations in India that are high on wanderlust and will leave your wandering soul satisfied.
Now let's get to exploring some of the safest destinations in India, shall we?
1) Udupi, Karnataka
Cannot decide between hills and beaches? In Udupi you can experience the best of both worlds. A cozy little town on the coast of Karnataka, it is home to various beaches, waterfalls, and magnificent hills. Start your day by witnessing the sunrise in Kundadri hill, take a dip in the water of Arbi falls during noon and end your day sitting quietly at Hoode beach during sunset, sipping on toddy. Absolutely safe and friendly, Manipal should definitely be on your list of safe destinations for solo female travel and we have big women travel groups to many destination.
How to Reach:
By air: The closest airport to Udupi is Mangalore International Airport. You can hire a taxi from the airport to Udupi.
By train: Closest railway station is Udupi Railway station.
Accommodations: White Lotus Hotel, The Ocean Pearl, His Grace Beach Cottages and Tents
2) Ladakh (Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in India)
Ladakh is one of the ideal places for women traveling solo. Gigantic snow-covered mountains, arid plains, serene valleys, and crystal blue waters of Pangong lake is what makes Ladakh one of the the best destinations for divas like you. 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, and the not-to-miss double humped camel rides.
How to reach:
By air: The nearest airport to Ladakh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.
By train: Closest railway station is Jammu Tawi, followed by a road trip (708km Long). I would suggest traveling by air since it is more comfortable and less tiring.
By road: A lot people do prefer to ride on bullet bikes all the way from Chandigarh to Ladakh via Manali & Jispa.
Accommodations: Ganga Homestay, Ladakh Sarai resort, Khaksahl Hotel.
3) Coorg, Karnataka
Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg is one of the most visited hill stations in Karnataka and the highest producer of coffee in the country. Home to three wildlife sanctuaries, the pleasant little hill station lies between the arms of the western ghats 300 km from Bangalore. Some of Coorg’s must-visit places are, Raja’s seat, Abbi fall, Nisargadhama, and Tadiandamol peak. A perfect place for nature and coffee lovers, Coorg is ideal for relaxing and rejuvenating.
How to reach:
By air: either land in Bangalore airport or Mangalore airport from where you can board a bus or hire a taxi.
By train: The closest railway station is in Mysore.
Accommodations: Casa Coorg homestay, Coorg Evergreen County, Amrita Ambatty Greens resort
4) Lavasa, Maharashtra
Located 65 km from Pune, Lavasa is a planned city inspired by the Italian town of Portofino. Perfect for a weekend getaway, Lavasa is surrounded by the Western Ghats and provides breath-taking views of hills and lakes. The city’s ambiance and nature’s raw beauty make it an ideal destination to break from its hustle and bustle.
How to reach: You can hire a car from major cities such as Pune or Maharashtra to Lavasa.
Accommodations: Waterfront Shaw, Luxury Deck apartment, Lakeview studio
5) Puducherry or Pondicherry
Every year, Puducherry attracts tourists in large numbers who are looking for an escape. From historical French colonies to delicious food to clear peaceful beaches to fun activities in abundance, Puducherry is every traveler's dream. Brimming with tourists all year long, it is an excellent place for a solo tourist to socialize with fellow travelers. Auroville, a city with no religion or politics, is a must-visit when in Puducherry. The Union territory provides you with a sense of peace and calmness that many destinations cannot.
How to reach:
By air: closest airport is Chennai International Airport. You can hire taxis to reach Puducherry.
By train: Closest railway station is the Villupuram Junction railway station (37 km from the city)
Accommodations: The Promenade, Le pondy, The Residency Towers
6) Varkala, Kerala
Looking to explore something a little off-beat and less cliché than Goa? Head to Varkala, located in Trivandrum. Also known as mini-Goa, Varkala is undoubtedly one of the best places for solo traveling. It is famous for its lively, picturesque beaches and surfing. With quaint cafes, local bazaars, bars, and delicious seafood, Varkala is Kerala’s hidden gem that you should absolutely explore on your next solo trip.
How to reach:
By air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport. (45 km from town)
By train: The nearest railway station is Varkala Sivagiri railway station.
Accommodations: Ashiyana Cliff & Beach Resort, Feeling Hotel, Seashore Beach Resort Varkala
If you are interested in reading more about the beach city, Varkala, check out, ‘Varkala Travel Guide for solo female travellers (Everything you need to know)
7) Kovalam, Kerala
Also located in Trivandrum, Kovalam is the perfect destination for a beach lover. Dating back to the 1930s, Kovalam is one of the oldest tourist enclaves in India. It proudly flaunts some of India’s calmest and pristine beaches, such as Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach, and The Grove beach. In addition to the trip to beaches, you can also indulge in other activities such as windsurfing, sunset cruise, lighthouse top view, and bodyboarding. Re-energize your soul with some Ayurveda and yoga.
How to reach:
By air- Closest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (15km from Kovalam)
By train- Closest railway station is Trivandrum Central Railway Station (15km from Kovalam)
Accommodations: Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa Kovalam, Gokulam Turtle on the beach, Hawah Beach Resort
8) Sikkim
Heaven on earth, Sikkim, will blow your mind with its spectacular views, Buddhist monasteries, lush green forests, and Himalayan ranges. With the welcoming nature of the locals combined with great hospitality, this North-East beauty will not disappoint you. With treasures like Pelling, Lachung, Lachen and Gangtok, you cannot escape the hallucinating magic of Himalayas of Sikkim. You can unleash the adventure bug by participating in activities such as trekking in Yuksom, Gondola ride in Gangtok, bath under the Bakthang Falls and mountain biking & many more.
How to reach:
By air: Pakyong Airport is a new airport and has recently started operations and currently has very selected routes, Bagdogra (West Bengal) is the most popular airport for visiting Sikkim. (There are shared cabs available from Siliguri which are generally safe even for solo female travellers but a little low on comfort factor)
One can also opt for a helicopter ride to Gangtok from Bagdogra and back at a cost of INR 3500 per way per person.
By train: The state does not have any central railway station. However, you can take a train to Siliguri (146km) and New Jalpaiguri (187km)
Accommodations: Orange village resort, White Conch Residency, Lemon Tree Hotel
9) Alleppey, Kerala (Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in India)
Kerala’s backwaters, comfortable stay in houseboats, and delicious Kerala cuisine, sound perfect, doesn’t it? Alleppey makes for a picture-perfect tourist destination for a girl traveling solo due to the town’s safe and secure environment. The city has numerous varieties of houseboats that you can choose from according to your needs and book individually.
P.S. Do try Kayaking trip in backwaters, I liked it more than the boat ride.
How to reach:
By air: Closest airport is Cochin International Airport (75km) and Trivandrum International Airport (150km).
By train: Alleppey Railway station is within the city limits.
Accommodations: Alleppey has a wide range of houseboats that you can choose from. We suggest you to go for the ones that have a good reputation and excellent services such as Waves and Dales.
10) Nainital, Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is considered one of the safest destinations in the country for solo female travel. Tucked in the unruffled valleys of Uttarakhand, Nainital is the perfect embodiment of paradise. The Kuamoni locals are accommodating and welcoming, which makes the city safe for females traveling alone. Some of the activities that you can do in Nainital are horse riding, camping, and trekking.
How to reach:
By air: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, is the nearest commercial airport.
By train: Kathgodham Railway Station is the closest railway station (34km)
Accommodations: Sterling Nainital, Fern Villas, Cygnett Resort Mountain Breeze
11) Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
An escape from the pollution, noise, and traffic of the state’s big cities such as Mumbai and Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is a green hill station on the Western Ghats. One feels most connected with nature here as the town is surrounded by evergreen forests and valleys. Be it enjoying hot chai in the pleasant weather, touring places like Connaught Peak and Wilson Point, or simply enjoying a delightful horseback ride along the Vienna Lake, Mahabaleshwar makes for a safe holiday destination.
How to reach:
By air: Closest airports to Mahabaleshwar are Mumbai and Pune airports. Taxis are available outside the airport that can take you to the hill station.
By train: The closest railway station is Wathar (60km)
Accommodations: Mango Hotels, Zostel Panchgani, Le Meridien
12) McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Also known as ‘Little Lhasa,’ McLeod Ganj is a suburb of Dharamshala. Owing to the safe ambiance of the city, McLeod Ganj is every nature lover’s dream destination. Every year tourists flock in large numbers to find peace in the beauty of the Dhauladhar range. The best time to visit the town is between October to June. Some of the city’s major attractions are the Dalai Lama temple, Bhagsu waterfall, and Naddi village.
How to reach:
By air: Gaggal airport is located just at 10km. However, due to limited flights, Delhi is also the nearest.
By rail: Pathankot Railway station is nearest to the town. (90km)
Accommodations: Gostops McLeod Ganj, Zostel McLeod Ganj, Fortune Park Moksha
13) Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is straight out of textbook, it still has the colonial aura and slow life. Many argue that Darjeeling is very touristy and hence not many millennials prefer visiting but we strongly recommend to keep it on your wishlist. Kanchenjunga the world's third highest peak is one of the main attractions along with the legendary steam railway line. West Bengal has only one hill station and it is immensely beautiful. The people, food, culture and the colonial world charm all make it a perfect solo travel destination for solo female travellers.
How to reach:
By air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (67 K.M)
By train: Darjeeling has its own railway station well connected by all major cities.
Accommodations: Udaan Dekeling Resort, Anant Hotel, Summit Grace
14) Auli, Uttarakhand
Surrounded by coniferous oak forest, Auli is one of the prettiest locations in Uttarakhand. The breathtaking view of massive snow-covered mountains complemented by lakes will surely blow your mind and leave you in awe. The cities major attraction is its skiing slopes at 2,500 to 3,000 m as tourists visit Auli for an incredible skiing experience. The streets are also covered with cute cafes that give you a taste of authentic local food.
How to reach:
By air: The closest airport is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (286km). From there, you can book a taxi.
By rail: The nearest railway station is the Rishikesh Railway station.
Accommodations: The Tattva, GMVN Ski Resort, Mountain Rover
15) Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, the city of lakes, portrays eminence, culture, rich ethnicity, and picturesque forts. The Former capital of the Mewar Kingdom, Udaipur, is a stunning spot for solo female travelers exploring India’s different cultures. There are countless bewildering spots to visit around there, such as Udaipur City Palace, Lake Pichola, Vintage Car Museum, Saheliyon ki Bari and Bagore ki Haveli Museum. A cultural treat, Udaipur will take you through an extraordinary venture. The Rajputs inhabiting the town are extremely helpful and will go out of their way to make you feel welcomed.
How to reach:
By air: Udaipur has an airport of its own, Maharana Pratap Airport.
By rail: Udaipur Railway Station is well connected from all major cities.
Accommodations: Radisson, Justa Rajputana Resort, Hotel The Tiger
16) Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is an ideal destination for a solo travel experience due to the valley's beauty and charm. The province of Himachal Pradesh is inviting towards a wide range of vacationers and is enormously safe for solo tourists looking to make memories. A lot of activities to choose from; you can experience snowfalls, shop to your heart’s content at Mall road, treat yourself in local restaurants, and enjoy winter sports in their local sports center, Kufri. With many more activities, Shimla will certainly not make you feel alone. The Queen of hills serves as a perfect destination, be it summers or winters.
How to reach:
By air: Located in Jubbarhatti, 22 kilometers from Shimla, Shimla airport is the nearest airport.
By rail: Kalka Railway Station is the nearest station to Shimla. From here, you can either book a taxi or take a toy train to the city.
Accommodations: Mahasu House, Shimla YMCA, Hotel Silverine
17) Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Looking for a spot to unwind and relax? Coonoor is your destination. Lying in the Nilgiris, 6000ft above sea level, it is famous for its panoramic views and tea estates. While the main city can get a little noisy, you can head to the relatively quiet outskirts. The safest way to explore the natural grandeur of Coonoor is through the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. You can also make a trip to Ooty, which is 18km away from Coonoor.
How to reach:
By air: The closest airport to Coonoor is the Coimbatore airport.
By rail: The nearest railway station also lies in Coimbatore. (73km). The toy trains of Nilgiri Mountain Railway connect Coonoor to Ooty.
Accommodations: The Xanadu, Bella Vista Stay, MGM Hill Worth Resort
18) Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna is a paradise for every solo female traveler. The experience of sitting at the half-moon beach and watching the sunset while the waves hug your feet is entirely out of the world. A small town on the Western coastline, Gokarna has a lot of beaches and treks. The most popular one being the trek along the beach line from Om beach to Paradise beach. Some other famous beaches are Kudle beach and Paradise beach. Nested in the forest, the Vibhuti waterfall is a must-visit.
How to reach:
By air: The nearest airport is Dabolim airport in Goa.
By rail: The nearest station is Gokarn road.
Accommodations: Zostel Gokarna, Shantidham Sea View Cottage,
19) Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley can be best described as an off-beat and a much quieter version of Ladakh. The best time to visit the valley is between October to March. Buddhist monasteries, snow-covered mountains, ancient temples are some of the things you would witness in Spiti Valley.
How to reach: Take a road trip to Spiti valley as driving on the valley roads is absolutely enthralling. Two major routes connecting to Spiti Valley start from Manali and Shimla.
Accommodations: Parasol Camps, Phuntsok homestay Tabo, Tara Homestay, and Guest House in Mudh village
20) Hampi, Karnataka
Undoubtedly, Karnataka has a lot of hidden treasures that are safe for solo female travelers to explore. A UNESCO world heritage, Hampi will make you fall in love with its monolithic architecture. The small village is rich in culture and history as it accommodates the ruins belonging to the medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijaynagar. Backpacking in Hampi is an excellent opportunity for tourists to meet new people and interact with nature. Do make a trip to Hippie island.
How to reach:
By air: Bangalore Airport is the nearest International airport and one can take an overnight bus from the city to Hampi.
By rail: The nearest railway station is at Hospet, located around 13 km from Hampi.
Accommodations: Heritage Resort, White Elephant restaurant & guesthouse, Hyatt Place
21) Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
If there is heaven on earth, it's Jammu and Kashmir. The beauty of Gulmarg cannot be explained in words unless you experience it yourself. With winter sports such as skiing, cable cars, horseback riding, 18-hole golf course, Gondolas, and trout fishing, Gulmarg is the perfect winter holiday destination. Its winter festival has attracted artists and musicians from all over the world. Busy all year long, it gives you an experience of a lifetime with its cultural and outdoor activities.
How to reach:
By air: Srinagar Airport is the closest airport. (56km). You can hire a prepaid cab or taxi to Gulmarg.
By rail: Jammu is the nearest railway station. (290km). The station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
Accommodations: Khyber Himalayan Resort, Pine View Resort, Hotel Affarwat
22) Kaziranga, Assam
When it comes to solo travel, the national park has also attracted tourists in large numbers. Kaziranga National Park that we often read about in our textbooks, makes for a great tourist spot for a solo female traveler. Home to the one-horned Rhino, Kaziranga enables you to experience the wildlife up close. You can go around the park in a jeep or elephant back and spot animals like the Royal Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, Hoolock Gibbons, and more.
How to reach:
By air: Guwahati National Airport(217km) and Jorhat Airport (97km) are the two nearest airports.
By train: Located at 75km, the closest station is Furkating. One can use other railway stations such as Guwahati and Jorhat railway station.
Accommodations: Dhansiri Eco Camp, Kaziranga Golf Resort, The Green Village Resort
23) Mysore, Karnataka
The cultural capital of Karnataka, Mysore welcomes tourists in large numbers every year. Friendly local, bustling streets along with a well-connected transport system make Mysore a safe destination to travel to. From vast shopping zones to restaurants selling mouth-watering food, Mysore will leave you wanting more. The Mysore Place lit up beautifully at night is a sight to behold. Other popular places are Chamundi Hills, Government House, Rangacharlu, Jubilee Clock, Sri Chamundeswari Temple, and Rail Museum. Mysore is also a famous yoga destination.
How to reach:
By air: The nearest airport is Mysore’s domestic airport, Mandakali airport located at 14km. One can also travel to Mysore from Bangalore taking an overnight bus or a cab service.
By rail: Mysore railway station is located in the main city.
Accommodations: Zostel, Metropole
24) Shillong, Meghalaya
Looking for a place to relax amidst natural beauty? Shillong should be your go-to. Located 4,908 feet above sea level, Shillong is the only hill station accessible from all sides. It welcomes its tourists with mesmerizing waterfalls, crystal clear skies, and massive mountains. When in Shillong, Shillong peak is a must-visit as it gives a panoramic view of the countryside. The picturesque beauty, pleasant climate, and hospitable people make Shillong a safe and secure destination for solo travel.
How to reach:
By air: Shillong airport is in Umroi, which is 40km from Shillong. It is a small domestic airport. Meghalaya Transport Corporation buses are available outside the airport that will take you to the city.
By rail: Meghalaya lacks proper railway lines, and hence the closest station is the Guwahati railway station.
Accommodations: Jiva Resort, Emily and Sanskirta’s Homestay, Ri Kynjai
25)Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Named after Maharaja Jaisal Sing, Jaisalmer never fails to leave its tourists spellbound. The city of Jaisalmer is a perfect blend of culture, art, and history. The Jaisalmer Desert Festival held in February is one of the most popular attractions as from desert camping to folk performances to desert safaris, it has it all. The months November to March are best to travel to Jaisalmer due to pleasant weather.
How to reach:
By air: Located 300km away, Jodhpur airport is closest to Jaisalmer.
By rail: Jaisalmer is well connected from all major cities. The luxury train, ‘Palace on Wheels’ also connects Jaisalmer.
Accommodations: The Golden Fort, Crazy Camel Guest House, Boutique Helsinki
We at Wander Womaniya are also contributing towards building a database of safe, secure & budget friendly properties from the perspective of solo female travellers. A lot of factors are being considered like feasibility, distance from city centre, hygiene, comfort and a lot more. Check it out
Here are some general tips for you to keep in mind while travelling solo.
- Research! Research! and Research! Thorough research will help you in getting familiar with the culture of the place and make it easier for you to explore.
- Avoid public transport and book private cars/two-wheeler to go around.
- Choose accommodations with good reviews and are solo friendly. Connect with the working staff, they can be extremely helpful.
- During nights, try to visit more of public places that are bustling with people rather than deserted spots.
- Share your location and itinerary with a trustworthy friend or your parents.
- Be proactive and confident. Asserting confidence will keep unnecessary attention away.
- Stay alert and cautious of your surroundings.
- Socialize and mingle with like-minded solo travelers.
- Carry all essentials and maintain hygiene. Negligence can lead to health problems.
You may also consider joining a fixed trip by women-only travel clubs should you wish to wish meet some like minded girls who desire to explore th world on their own terms