Safest Cities in India for Women to Live
1, Mumbai
Mumbai, located on the western coast of India and effectively kissed by the Arabian Sea, is celebrated as the city that never sleeps. It provides a unique blend of modern urban splendor and historical charm. It's a bustling metropolis best known for being the center of Bollywood, India's colossal film industry. Apart from this, Mumbai is recognized for its iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, a historic waterfront arch commemorating the 1911 royal visit; Chowpatty Beach, a colorful and vibrant destination; and the Elephant Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in archaeological remnants. The city's thriving street food culture, pulsating nightlife, immense shopping options in luxury malls as well as local markets, and extraordinarily dynamic pace of life captivate millions of visitors each year.
2, Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, located in the heart of Gujarat, India, is a vibrant city that flawlessly blends tradition with modernity. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the city beautifully showcases magnificent Mughal architecture, intertwined with the remnants of the British colonial past and cutting-edge contemporary designs. You can witness this in the famous Sabarmati Ashram, which was once the house and the epicenter of Mahatma Gandhi’s freedom struggle, and the popular Akshardham Temple, an epitome of architectural excellence. Ahmedabad is also a paradise for food lovers, offering diverse flavors in its popular street foods such as Dhokla, Fafda, and Khakra. Besides, it's a renowned textile hub, offering splendid traditional and hand-embroidered fabrics, which attracts shopaholics globally. The city’s rich heritage, tempting culinary delights, and bustling local bazaars definitely make Ahmedabad a must-visit destination for any avid traveler.
3, Pune
Pune, located in the western state of Maharashtra in India, is a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. Famous as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, it is renowned for its rich history, magnificent palaces, serene temples, and vibrant festivals. The city is also home to several prestigious educational institutions, hence it's often called the 'Oxford of the East'. Pune is encircled with rolling hills and picturesque lakes, presenting enchanting natural beauty to its visitors. It is also the gateway to the popular hill stations of Maharashtra, like Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala. From exploring the historic Aga Khan Palace, having a family picnic at Saras Baug, to shopping at the bustling markets of Laxmi Road, Pune offers an experience worth cherishing for all types of travelers.
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4, Surat
Surat, located on the southwestern coast of Gujarat, India, is a vibrant city known for its diamond polishing industry, textile market, delectable gujarati cuisine, and colonial-era architecture. Straddling the Tapi River, Surat boasts of a rich historical heritage including the grand Surat Castle, built in the 16th century to defend against Portuguese invasions, and the exquisite mausoleum of Khudawand Khan. This bustling city is also famous for its intricate silk weaving industry and the famous Sardar Market. Not to be missed are the enchanting beaches of Dumas and Suvali, offering picturesque sunset views. With its burgeoning industries, diverse culture, maritime history and mouth-watering food, Surat presents an intriguing mix of the old and the new.
5, Coimbatore
Coimbatore, often referred to as the "Manchester of South India," is a bustling city located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, serving as a pivotal industrial and commercial hub known for its textile industries. Nestled on the banks of the Noyyal River and encircled by the mesmerizing Western Ghats, Coimbatore boasts a blend of flourishing trade and natural beauty. It's renowned for its vibrant culture, the Sashti festival celebrated with grandeur, and two of the country's most admired Hindu temples - the Perur Pateeswarar Temple and the Marudhamalai Temple. With an intriguing mix of craft markets, verdant green parks such as VOC Park & Zoo, and exotic dishes like Mysorepa, a visit to Coimbatore guarantees an enriching travel experience.
6, Indore
Indore, the largest city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is a vibrant blend of past and present. Situated on the Malwa plateau, Indore is often referred to as the commercial capital of the state and is known for its rich cultural heritage. With its grand monuments, exquisitely carved temples, and lush green surroundings, the city is a feast for the eyes. It also holds a significant place in the world of food, with its street food being particularly popular across India. Offering a mix of historic landmarks like the opulent Rajwada Palace and Lal Bagh Palace, along with cutting-edge modern structures, vibrant markets, and pulsating nightlife, Indore presents an irresistible mix for travelers.
7, Rishikesh
Rishikesh, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a city of deep spiritual significance that basks in the shadow of the lofty Himalayas and is cradled by the mighty Ganges River. Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," it is home to numerous ashrams that offer yoga and meditation classes, including the renowned Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram. Rishikesh's spiritual status is further enhanced by its vibrant temples, the most famous being the 13-storey Trimbakeshwar Temple. Additionally, Rishikesh is a gateway to the Char Dham and the starting point for the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage. The iconic suspension bridge, the Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, are other notable attractions. Despite its spiritual significance, Rishikesh also offers vibrant cafes, bustling markets and opportunities for adventurous activities such as rafting and trekking, making it a diverse destination catering to a wide range of interests.
8, Bangalore
Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka state in southern India, is fondly known as the "Silicon Valley of India" owing to its prowess as the nation's leading information and technology exporter. Renowned for its pleasant climate throughout the year, the city captivates with its perfect amalgamation of historical charm and modern proficiency. Bangalore is celebrated for its thriving parks, such as Cubbon Park and Lal Bagh, offering lush green spaces in the heart of the city, while its thriving nightlife and food scene are sure to draw in the gastronomically adventurous. Rich in its culture and history, it's home to architectural marvels like Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace. A blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary, Bangalore offers a unique travel experience for every visitor.
9, Hyderabad
Hyderabad, set in the heart of southern India, is a confluence of rich historical heritage and burgeoning modern development. Renowned globally for its thriving information technology industry, it's often referred to as "Cyberabad." The city is also known for the charms of its Old City, which includes the architectural grandeur of Golconda Fort and the iconic Charminar. With its vibrant bazaars teeming with traditional jewelry, pearls, spices and textiles, Hyderabad beautifully juxtaposes old-world allure with contemporary dynamism. Add to this, the unique appeal of its world famous Hyderabadi biryani, and you've got a city that offers a culturally diverse, gastronomically vibrant, and historically rich experience for any world traveler.
10, Udupi
Located on the southwest coast of India, Udupi is a vibrant city in the state of Karnataka famous for its divine temples, pristine beaches, and delectable Udupi cuisine. Renowned as a significant pilgrimage site, it houses the 13th-century Sri Krishna Temple which attracts a multitude of devotees annually. Apart from its religious prominence, Udupi is also home to exotic biodiversity and scenic beauty, evident in sites like the St. Mary's Island, endowed with unique columnar basaltic rock formations and the verdant Manipal End Point park. The city also provides a feast for the taste buds, being the birthplace of the Udupi cuisine, known for its hearty vegetarian meals and delicious sweets.
11, Gangtok
Gangtok, located in the north-eastern Indian state of Sikkim, is a sparkling gem of beauty and tranquility that contrasts vividly with the hustle and bustle of other Indian cities. Perched amidst the Himalayan mountains at a height of 5,500 feet, it offers an enchanting view of the mighty Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. Gangtok is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including notable Buddhist monasteries such as Rumtek and Enchey, and local festivals like Losar, Drupka Teshi and Saga Dawa. The serene Tsomgo Lake, the enthralling Nathu La Pass, and the well-maintained zoological park hosting snow leopards and red pandas are must-visits, as is MG Marg, the buzzing free-vehicle zone, perfect for a shopping spree for traditional Sikkim handicrafts, and sampling sumptuous local cuisine.
12, Kasauli
Kasauli is a quaint hill station nestled in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, Northern India. Perched at an astonishing height of about 1800 meters above sea level, this serene town boasts stunning panoramic vistas of the lush green surroundings and lofty snow-clad Himalayan peaks. Kasauli is best known for its colonial-era architecture, rich flora and fauna, and a plethora of attractions like the Kasauli Brewery, the first distillery for 'scotch-whisky' set up in the late 1820s, the Monkey Point, a Paradise for nature lovers, and the Christ Church, an exquisite exemplifier of Gothic architecture. With its seemingly untouched natural beauty and a relatively less crowded atmosphere, Kasauli offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking respite from the bustling city life.
13, Chennai
Chennai, located on the southeastern coast of India, is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Known for a blend of rich culture, tradition, and modernity, it is simultaneously a bustling commercial hub and a city steeply rooted in classical arts. With its beautiful, sandy beaches like Marina Beach and Elliot's Beach, Chennai is a charming place for relaxation while the city's temples like Kapaleeshwarar Temple showcase its deeply ingrained spirituality. The city is also renowned for the Madras Music Season, an annual celebration of Carnatic music where artists and aficionados gather from around the world, making the streets come alive with vibrant performances. As a cosmopolitan city with a welcoming charm, Chennai offers a fascinating mix of the old and new, a harmonious juxtaposition that captivates both domestic and international tourists.
14, Goa
Goa, located on the southwest coast of India, is a magnificent blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures known for its scenic beaches, vibrant nightlife, and pulsating music festivals. Famous for its architecture, it boasts an impressive array of churches and old Portuguese houses that give a peek into Goa's rich history. The land also stands out for its biodiversity, hosting two World Heritage Sites - the Bom Jesus Basilica and the churches and convents of Old Goa. Gastronomists can indulge in staple Goan cuisine, which perfectly blends Konkan, Hindu, and Portuguese flavors. Visitors flock to Goa not just for its serene beaches like Calangute and Baga but also for adventure water sports and the fresh seafood served right on the beach. A truly multi-faceted destination, Goa never fails to charm its visitors with its joie de vivre.
15, Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is located on the eastern banks of the Hooghly river in West Bengal, India. Known as the 'Cultural Capital of India', it is rich in history, culture, literature, and arts. It is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and the Indian Museum. The city is also celebrated for the annual Durga Puja Festival, a grand and colorful event attracting visitors worldwide. Renowned for its intellectual, artistic, and literary heritage, Kolkata is the birthplace of many great poets and writers. The city is additionally famed for its delicious Bengali cuisine, with the sweet dish 'Rasgulla' and 'Machher Jhol' (fish curry) taking the limelight.
16, Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala, is a vibrant city located in South India. Renowned for its rich culture, history, and spirituality, it is a hotspot for tourists seeking both serenity and adventure. In the midst of luscious green landscapes, Thrissur is home to the famed Vadakkunnathan Temple, a classic example of Kerala’s architectural brilliance, and the popular Thrissur Pooram, an annual Hindu temple festival that attracts thousands of visitors with its stunning elephant processions, firework displays, and traditional Keralan music. The city also houses the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nadaka Academy, proving its dedication towards literature, music, and the arts. With a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious significance, Thrissur is a compelling destination for any traveler.
17, Cooch Behar
Cooch Behar, located in the heart of West Bengal, Northeast India, is a captivating city that boasts a rich historical pedigree. Known for its regal architecture and cultural festivals, it is particularly famous for the magnificent Cooch Behar Palace, a grand testament to the classic Italian Renaissance style design. Befitting its royal heritage, the city hosts the Raas Mela, an annual fair that draws large crowds with its cultural performances and local cuisine. Apart from its history, Cooch Behar also nestles in among lush landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty, with the serene Madan Mohan Bari and the tranquil Sagar Dighi lake amongst the highlights. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a nature admirer, Cooch Behar offers a unique blend of experiences to make your Indian sojourn unforgettable.
18, Manali
Nestled in the picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India, Manali is an enchanting hill station that draws adventure seekers and tranquility lovers from across the globe. Majestically situated at a height of about 2,050 meters above sea level, Manali is surrounded by the towering Himalayan peaks, offering breathtaking scenic beauty adorned with lush greenery, serene rivers, and dense forests. Renowned for its multitude of adventure activities, travellers can indulge in exhilarating experiences such as skiing in the Solang Valley, trekking in Parvati Valley, or rafting in River Beas. Alongside the adrenaline rush, Manali is famed for its striking temples including the Hadimba Temple, thermal springs in Vashisht village, and the rich cultural heritage of local Himachali people. The snow-capped mountainous paradise wrapped in spirituality and adventure, Manali is a canvas of natural beauty and exhilaration.
19, Palampur
Nestled in the green valleys of Himachal Pradesh, India, Palampur is a charming hill station known for its mesmerizing beauty and serenity. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the snow-capped Dhauladhar ranges, it is a place where the cool mountain air mingles with the aroma of lush tea gardens. Palampur is unmistakably famous for its sprawling tea estates and inspiring colonial architecture, especially the beautifully-crafted, old-world style St. John's Church. Being the gateway to several Himalayan treks, it attracts adventure enthusiasts from all over. Its verdant forests, riveting rivers, and tranquil temples further adorn the landscape offering a perfect blend of nature and culture, attracting tourists to experience the simple, relaxed, and peaceful life in this delightful hill town.
20, Bikaner
Bikaner is a vibrant, dust-swirling desert town with a fabulous fort located in Rajasthan, northern India. Known for its rich heritage and beautiful architectural marvels, this city offers a tour through the pages of history. Bikaner is famous for its stunning forts, temples, camel safari, and the well-known Karni Mata Rat Temple. Furthermore, it's internationally renowned for an annual Camel Festival and its savory Bikaneri Bhujia and sweets. The city tells the tales of ancient times and valor of the rulers, enchanting every visitor with its old-world charm and diverse culture.
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