Is Meghalaya Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Meghalaya is moderately safe at night. As a solo female traveler, it is preferable not to walk alone at night, primarily in secluded areas. The locals are generally friendly, and crimes against tourists are mostly rare but it's always recommended to avoid isolated areas and keep your hotel or local contact on speed dial. Engaging a guide or being part of a group can be safer during night explorations.

Public transportation in Meghalaya is generally safe. However, it can appear haphazard at times due to irregular schedules. Buses and shared taxis are the main modes of transport. Most vehicles tend to be overcrowded with no strict observation of time. Though drivers are experienced and incidents are rare, the driving approach can seem highly unnerving for visitors who are not accustomed to such driving styles. Crimes or harassment on public transport are not common, but one should still exercise due caution.

Meghalaya, particularly its capital city Shillong, is known for its high level of safety for solo female travelers. It is a matrilineal society where women play a prominent role, hence street harassment is very rare. People respect individual privacy and personal space here. Always exercise basic precautionary measures for your safety as you would in any other place.

Meghalaya, particularly the city of Shillong, is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are not so common. However, as in any place around the world, it is always advisable to remain cautious, especially in crowded areas. Practice usual precautions like not carrying valuable items in plain sight, always ensuring to lock up accommodations and avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in less crowded areas.

In Meghalaya, the tap water is generally not safe to drink directly. Despite many major urban areas have water treatment facilities, contamination with harmful bacteria, pollutants, and diseases can occur. It is advised to either boil tap water before consumption, or stick to branded, sealed bottled water. It’s always better to prioritize health over convenience.

The United States government advises exercising increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in India due to the threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution overall in India, due to threats of terrorism, crime, and risks of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.