Is Varanasi safe for solo female travelers?

Varanasi, experiences a high volume of tourists annually and women often report having had safe travel experiences. Nonetheless, India has a mixed record with safety for solo female travelers. While Varanasi is generally safe, it is still important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Also, modest clothing is recommended to respect the cultural norms, reducing unwanted attention. However, people are friendly and willing to help if needed. A guide or joining a group tour may boost your confidence and sense of safety while exploring.

Safety rating

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How safe is Varanasi for female travelers?

Albariña

Albariña

Spain

Solo travel

I felt really safe. Just making friends is fine, but some Indian men know that Western women don't have issues with physical touching, and sometimes they take advantage of this cultural difference. Anyways, just chill and walk around the city—it's awesome.

Posted: September 29, 2025Experienced: August, 2025
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Solo travel

Varanasi was a real cultural shock for me and undoubtedly is the dirtiest place on earth. It's worth seeing, but I would never go back there. If you're lucky enough not to get jaundice in Varanasi, you'll never get it anywhere else. Imagine... In the same river, dead bodies are washed, people bathe, brush their teeth, wash dishes and clothes, wash cows etc. The same river also supplies the city with water.

Posted: June 28, 2022
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How safe is Varanasi for women?

Local safety index

3.2 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Local crime index

1.3 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

There are tourists all the time, so its not that bad at night but as a women we must always be on lookout. Also stay away from strangers and men who seem fishy. Like the vendors and shop owners are okay .But not all public transport men are safe. If you don't feel right do not take the public transport.

Posted: June 24, 2025
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Ananya

Ananya

It's safer than most of cities in India. Just avoid going to shady places at night. You can roam around in the city where there are a lot of people. You can also stay at the ghats of Varanasi at night. Don't go alone. Atleast have one person by your side

Posted: April 18, 2025
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Ziniya

Ziniya

As compared to others cities Varanasi is considered as one of the safest city since the city it self never sleeps and you can literally walk around the town at any hour. Girls are safe here even at night.

Posted: April 8, 2025
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Safety in India