With financial independence, women today are inspired to explore life and live it on their terms. Travel forms one very important segment of this life exploration. Urban Indian women today are ready to travel with their backpack, hiking boots and with no companion by her side. Women travellers in the leisure and business leisure segment have grown by 32% (As per reports).
While India has always been known for its rich culture, heritage and variations in cuisine, safety forms a major concern for women when it comes to travelling alone. The fear of lingering eyes or spine-chilling headlines always embraces solo women travellers. The situation is thankfully improving albeit slowly with most travel destinations being well connected with modern commute, stay, support and communication options.
If you too have the solo travel itch, are ready to take the plunge and walk out of the door, below are five travel destinations for solo exploring.
McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
On reaching McLeod Ganj, one will realize that she has entered a completely different realm. With Tibetan flags adorning the streets, it is a place to enjoy a peaceful stay away from the hustle-bustle of city life. Enjoy Tibetan cuisine and shop like there is no tomorrow. Because of its small size and popularity with tourists, McLeod Ganj is a safe place for women to head alone. Along with the amazing weather, there is a strong community feel in the place. Solo women travellers should also trek up to the mighty Triund and enjoy the picturesque beauty of the place.
Munnar, Kerala
Located in the state of Kerala, this place is popular for its breath-taking beauty and surreal landscapes. The lush green landscape becomes even more surreal and majestic during monsoons. Spoilt with choicest options for resorts and beauty treatments, Munnar offers amazing options for women, looking to travel solo to this place.
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Located on the banks of Parvati river, this small town is a backpacker’s paradise. Popularly known as the ‘Mini Israel of India’, Kasol is full of Italian and Israeli cafes where women travellers can enjoy authentic Italian and Israeli food, while they unwind and relax. A walk along the banks of River Parvati and the scenic landscape will leave one in awe. Kasol is increasingly becoming popular with solo female travellers due to the honest and generous nature of the locals. Women travellers can wear whatever they want, do whatever they want and nobody will judge them.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Termed as yoga capital of the world, this place is super safe for solo travelling women. Be it for a yoga retreat or adventure activities like white river rafting, bungee jumping or simply about enjoying the nature, solo women travellers can have it all. The spiritual vibes help one awaken the inner self and women might be able to get a bit closer to nature while they are alone.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Ahmedabad is undoubtedly one of the safest cities in India. Famous for the Sabarmati Ashram which stands as a witness to the struggles contributed to India’s independence from the British rule, solo women travellers can enjoy their stay in Ahmedabad. People from Ahmedabad are extremely warm and their honesty is unmatched. One will certainly not hear cases of tourists getting scammed or girls travelling solo being bothered by anyone.
Let’s unleash our love for travel and enjoy it all alone…
Saumika is a creative enthusiast who loves music, art, literature, poetry and dance. She is also a dynamic communication strategist. A busy work schedule did not stop her from pursuing her passion for music and art which helps her stay close to her traditional roots.