Travel is usually associated with going with friends, spouse, or family. But, of late, solo travel is becoming popular, not just with men but also women. Along with exploring new places, solo travel helps you discover a new side to you and makes you more confident and responsible. It gives you the time to venture, unwind, and just be in tune with yourself. In India, there are thousands of places that are worth visiting but there have always been safety related issues that concern travelers; which is why now days, it is uplifting to see many solo women travelers in India sharing their experiences and tips with other women and encouraging them to undertake that trip all on their own. If you find these women inspiring and are fascinated by the idea of traveling alone, we have shortlisted 5 places you must visit in India that are not only beautiful but also relatively safer for women who wish to travel solo. Here’s to more women ready to take a plunge in 2017!
1. Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh
Image by Leslie Taylor via Pinterest
Listed under the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, the magnificent Khajuraho is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. That means, you will find it to be crowded, especially during the peak season, making it relatively safer for women. Also, if you think about it, it is one of those sites where it’s much better to be on your own as you can decide how much time you want to spend exploring each and every nook, and you can experience it exactly the way you would like. Apart from visiting the many temples, you can also enjoy a boat ride or taste the local cuisine as well. Since it is a bustling tourist spot, there will be many guides and hawkers trying to strike a deal. Be firm with them and try to keep them at bay. If you need a guide, you can look for official guides at the place. It is best to visit Khajuraho during winter months.
2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Images via Outside Miracles
One of the best national parks in India, Kaziranga is renowned for its one-horned rhinoceros and also a whole lot of other wild species. It is also very picturesque with grasslands, forests, and rivers. For women who love bird watching and photography, Kaziranga offers amazing sights and opportunities for taking the best shots ever. Some other animals to spot here are the sambar, leopard, Indian hog deer, sloth bear, large and small Indian civet, macaque, etc. The government lodges that are located in the park make for a convenient and safe stay. Take a jeep or elephant safari to explore the park and return with a lifetime of memories. With friendly officials and locals, a trip to Kaziranga National Park is definitely worth taking.
3. Ladakh
Image by Manav Dave via Tumblr
A trip to Ladakh is ideal for solo women travelers as the locals do not harass you with their wares or give you special attention; both the people and the nature just let you be. The beautiful landscape, the serene atmosphere, and the rugged terrain will captivate you with its charm and beauty, something you can fully absorb only when you are standing amidst it all by yourself. Being in Ladakh and taking in the surroundings with nothing around but the cool breeze is almost like meditation. Of course, there are many places to visit such as the amazing Pangong Lake, the many monasteries in the region including the renowned Hemis Monastery (you can also visit the Hemis National Park while you are there), Khardung La, Leh Palace, Nubra Valley— the list in endless!
4. Munnar, Kerala
Image by Sylvain Burgert via Pinterest
The best thing about Munnar is that it is the ideal location for both the adventure seekers and for those who love to be all by themselves just soaking in the nature. Though it is the tea plantations that Munnar is known for, it is also blessed with beautiful landscapes. The people of Munnar are simple and honest and they do not disturb you or come in your way. They are also very helpful and that is why Munnar is considered to be one of the safest places for women who like to travel alone. We highly recommend cycling, trekking, and a visit to the tea museum.
5. Sikkim
Image via In Search Of Green Pastures
Of course, with its magnificent mountains, breathtaking valleys, and scenic spots, Sikkim has always been a popular tourist destination. But if you are wondering if it is safe for women travelers as well, then you should know that with its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, it indeed is an ideal location for women who wish to explore the northeastern state on their own. You will never feel alone or bored when you are in the beautiful company of nature that surrounds you over here. You can visit the many monasteries, the hot water springs, the Tsomgo Lake, just wander about in the valleys, or go trekking. We also highly recommend visiting the Norbugang Park, trying out the local cuisine, and buying lots and lots of local tea, since it’s considered to be one of the best in India.
** Rohit is a traveler and an inspiration to several tourists across the globe. His stories bring in a firsthand experience to his readers, ensuring that all future travelers know what to expect and make the most out of the trips they plan. You can read more about his adventures on TransIndiaTravels.com.
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