Safest Places in India for Solo Female Travel

India, a vibrant country located in South Asia, is known for its rich culture, diverse traditions, and historical significance. The seventh-largest country in the world, bordered by the Himalayan ranges in the north, the Indian Ocean in the south, and the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal to its west and east respectively, it is renowned for its stunning landscapes and biodiverse nature. India boasts numerous iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur's enchanting Pink City, the spiritual hub Varanasi, and the pristine beaches of Goa. Additionally, it offers a gastronomic adventure with its array of regional dishes and street food. Moreover, its festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Eid bring together its melting pot of religions and cultures in vibrant and colorful displays.
Shillong

1, Shillong

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya in Northeast India, is a picturesque hill station fondly known as the "Scotland of the East." Situated approximately 1,500 meters above sea level amidst the scenic Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia hills, this splendid city offers breathtaking panoramas and cool, pine-fresh air throughout the year. Shillong is renowned for its charming colonial architecture, lush green golf courses, serene lakes such as Umiam Lake, and cascading waterfalls including the Elephant Falls, all contributing to its enchanting beauty. The city's vibrant culture is reflected in the local handicrafts, music festivals, and exquisite cuisine, making Shillong a distinguished, must-visit space for travelers.

Meghalaya

2, Meghalaya

Located in the northeastern part of India, Meghalaya, aptly named the 'Abode of Clouds', is a captivating travel destination enveloped by verdant hills and striking waterfalls. This enchanting state is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and unique cultural heritage. Astoundingly, Meghalaya holds the distinction of being home to Mawsynram and Cherrapunji, the two wettest places on earth. On a trip to Meghalaya, visitors can explore the intriguing living root bridges, formed naturally by rubber trees, and appreciate the serene beauty of Umiam Lake. Also, visitors shouldn't miss a chance to traverse the vibrant local markets and savour the delectable Meghalayan cuisine. The state's rich biodiversity with numerous exotic flora and fauna species adds to the charm of this rain-lashed haven.

Port Blair

3, Port Blair

Located in the Bay of Bengal on India's eastern coast, Port Blair is the sparkling capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Known for its pristine beauty and tranquil environment, this charming city is renowned for its historical significance and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. It's often hailed as a tropical paradise with its verdant greenery, crystal-clear waters, and exotic wildlife. From the historic Cellular Jail that highlights the grim colonial past to an array of water sports at Corbyn's Cove, Port Blair captivates travelers with its diverse offerings. Visit the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum for an insight into the region's marine life, or shop for souvenirs at Aberdeen Bazaar. VIP Road's fabulous eateries allow a taste of local seafood specialty - a must for every visitor. Whether you're an adventurer, a history buff, or a serene-lover, Port Blair is the perfect vacation spot that offers a unique blend of excitement and relaxation.

Auli

4, Auli

Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, Auli is a mesmerizing hill station that is widely known for its lofty snow-covered peaks and stunning natural beauty. Often referred to as the 'Ski Capital of India', Auli is visited by numerous adventure enthusiasts each year who engage in thrilling ski activities. Along with the snowy slopes perfect for skiing, this picturesque locale also boasts of lush green landscapes and dense oak forests. The place is also home to Nanda Devi Peak, one of the highest peaks in the world, offering mesmerizing panoramic views that captivate tourists. The serene environment, coupled with its panoramic beauty, makes Auli one of the most attractive tourist destinations in India.

Kausani

5, Kausani

Nestled amongst the panoramic splendor of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, Kausani stands as an enchanting hill station renowned for its scenic beauty and serene ambience. Surrounded by dense pine forests and distinguished by its breathtaking 300 km-wide view of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchchuli, Kausani is the perfect sanctuary for peace seekers and nature enthusiasts. It's also known for its association with the legendary Hindi poet Sumitranandan Pant, whose childhood home has now been converted into a museum. Attractions such as Anasakti Ashram, a place where Mahatma Gandhi meditated, and the Kausani Tea Estate, which offers an engaging tour on tea processing, only add to the charm of this idyllic locale.

Binsar

6, Binsar

Binsar is a serene town nestled in the heart of the Kumaon Himalayas in India's northern state of Uttarakhand. Known as the Crown Jewel of Kumaon hills, this place is revered for its panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks such as Kedarnath, Shivling, Trishul, and Nanda Devi. Binsar is rich in its flora and fauna, attracting wildlife enthusiasts to its famous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. The ancient temple complex, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, offers spiritual solace for visitors. It also has a significant historical value with the 17th-century Binsar fort, adding to its allure. Its magnificent sunrise, the undulating valleys, and the lush greenery are a paradise for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and trekking aficionados.

Almora

7, Almora

Nestled in the serene and majestic peaks of the Kumaon Hills in Uttarakhand, North India, Almora is a tranquil hill station known for its panoramic views and cultural richness. This Kumaoni gem beckons nature lovers with its breathtaking landscapes, vivid sunsets, lush green flora, and diverse wildlife. Almora's centuries-old Lala Bazaar is a bustling marketplace loved for its traditional handicrafts, especially its woolen textiles and copperware. The hill station's profound cultural heritage is beautifully highlighted in its distinctive temples such as Katarmal Sun Temple and Chitai Golu Devta Temple. Almora is truly a paradise for tranquility seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, and culture buffs.

Mukteswar

8, Mukteswar

Mukteswar, a picturesque town in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a gateway to the majestic Himalayas and a popular hub for adventure enthusiasts. Nestled in the Kumaon hills at an altitude of 2,286m, the town provides stunning panoramic views of steeped terrains and dense coniferous forests. Known for its 350-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. Besides spiritual solace, Mukteswar is famous for its fruit orchards, confectionery factories producing delectable fruit jams and jellies, and adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling. Visitors can also sit back and absorb the tranquility or explore the colonial remnants - the PWD Inspection Bungalow and the IVRI (Indian Veterinary Research Institute) complex.

Rishop

9, Rishop

Rishop, a captivating hill station nestled in the heart of West Bengal, India is renowned for its soothing climate, majestic Himalayan panorama, and unspoiled natural beauty. Positioned at an altitude of 2591 meters, this tranquil paradise offers invigorating views of the Kanchenjunga and other towering peaks of the Eastern Himalayas. This destination has developed a reputation for its verdant forests abundant in diverse flora and fauna and countless trekking routes, offering adventure-enthusiasts unique thrilling experiences. The Tiffin Dara- a vantage point providing 360-degree views, and Lava and Loleygaon- nearby scenic villages, are among the must-visit sites that enhance the allure of Rishop.

Namchi

10, Namchi

Located in the South Sikkim district in the Indian state of Sikkim, Namchi is a scenic and serene destination that attracts tourists from around the globe. Its name translates to "Sky High" in Sikkimese and rightfully so, this charming place offers breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges and the thriving green valleys. Nestled at an elevation of 1675 meters, Namchi is popular for being home to the world's largest statue of the Buddhist Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) at Samdruptse Hill and the replica of all 'Dhams' (sacred pilgrimage sites) of India at the Siddhesvara Dham. Boasting of rich biodiversity, age-old monasteries, lush gardens and the enchanting Temi Tea Garden, Namchi is quintessentially a haven for nature-lovers and spiritual seekers.

Jaldapara

11, Jaldapara

Jaldapara, located at the foothills of Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes ideal for those with a flair for adventure and wildlife. Jaldapara boasts the Jaldapara National Park, famous for its large population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses and the array of other wildlife like elephants, leopards, and deer. For bird enthusiasts, the regional bird species are mind-boggling, while the Elephant Safari and Jeep Safari offer visitors an unforgettable exploration of the park's unique wildlife and dense grasslands. With its serene aura, Jaldapara promises an enchanting refuge away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Dharamshala

12, Dharamshala

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Dhauladhar Range in the idyllic Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is a peaceful haven renowned for its unique blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Often, it is referred to as the "Little Lhasa" due to its large population of Tibetan refugees and the home of the Dalai Lama. Visitors are drawn to Dharamshala for its tranquil monasteries, Tibetan culture, traditional arts and crafts, and invigorating trekking trails. With its vibrant spirit, breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming inhabitants, Dharamshala provides an unforgettable experience for tranquillity seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and spiritual pilgrims alike.

Patnitop

13, Patnitop

Situated in the picturesque Udhampur district of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop (or Patni Top) is a serene hill station celebrated for its embarking beauty. Perched at an elevation of around 2,024 metres above sea level, Patnitop seamlessly combines an unparalleled natural charm with captivating heritage influences. It is resplendent with lush green landscapes, pristine meadows laden with exotic flowers, and majestic deodar and kail cedar trees, making it an idyllic retreat for nature enthusiasts. Known for its scenic walking trails, charming picnic spots, adventurous skiing and paragliding options, and a breathtaking 360-degree view from the historical Nathatop, Patnitop provides ample opportunities for a memorable travel experience.

Lansdowne

14, Lansdowne

Lansdowne, tucked away in the heart of the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India, is an enchanting hill station known for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Serenely located at an elevation of 1,700 meters, Lansdowne is an epitome of raw, untouched Himalayan beauty. The destination offers a plethora of experiences such as bird watching, trekking, and boating. It's noted for its colonial architecture like St. Mary's Church and the War Memorial, and for Bhulla Tal, a pristine man-made lake. A place of significant historical value as well, it's known as the regimental center of the Garhwal Rifles of the Indian Army. The breathtaking panoramic views of sun-kissed Himalayan peaks make Lansdowne a must-visit destination for nature lovers and peace seekers alike.

Kasauli

15, 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.

Nathdwara

16, Nathdwara

Nathdwara, nestled in the Aravalli hills, lies in the heart of the culturally rich state of Rajasthan, India. Often referred to as 'Shrinathji' after the renowned 7th century deity to which the landmark temple is devoted, this city invites thousands of devotees annually. Crossing the threshold of the Shrinathji Temple, the intoxicating aroma of fresh flowers and sweet prasad lingers in the air - echoing the resplendent spirituality of the city. A panorama of religious festivities topped with tribal 'Bundi' art and traditional 'Pichwai' paintings, Nathdwara is truly a symphony of Indian heritage and spiritual transcendence. Experience the art-infused lanes, savor the delectable Rajasthani cuisine, and immerse yourself in the harmonious chants that define this historic city.

Araku

17, Araku

Araku, located in the Eastern Ghats of the scenic Visakhapatnam district in India's Andhra Pradesh state, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the "Ooty of Andhra," this quaint hill station is a haven for nature lovers, offering splendid waterfalls, verdant valleys, and captivating coffee plantations. Its rich tribal heritage, showcased in the Tribal Museum, enhances its allure, while the Borra Caves, India's deepest caves, provide an exciting exploration opportunity. The region is also famous for its high-quality Arabica coffee, promoted globally by the Araku Coffee brand. Araku Valley is truly India’s hidden gem, offering visitors a serene retreat away from bustling city life.

Dholavira

18, Dholavira

Dholavira, located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India, is an archaeological treasure renowned for its ancient ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization, also known as Harappan civilization. This historical city bears testament to a civilization that dates back to 4500 years, rendering it one of the largest and most prominent archaeological sites in India. Dholavira is essentially recognized for its meticulous city planning, large-scale water harvesting methods, and architectural expertise. The grand ruins encompassing reservoirs, stepwell, and unique inscriptions attract historians, archaeologists, and explorers from across the globe. The incomparable experience of tracing back to the roots of one of the world's oldest civilizations makes Dholavira a must-visit for all history enthusiasts.

Maheshwar

19, Maheshwar

Maheshwar, richly imbued with grandeur and spiritual serenity, is a charming town nestled on the banks of the holy river Narmada in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India. It is renowned for its stunning, ornate temples such as the breathtaking Maheshwar Fort and the timeless Rajarajeshwara Temple, in addition to its exquisite hand-woven Maheshwari saris, reflective of Indian heritage and passion for craftsmanship. A walk along the Ahilya Ghats offers travelers unparalleled, tranquil views of the river, while boat rides present them the raw beauty of the Narmada complemented by the mesmerising play of lights during sunset. A blend of history, spirituality, culture, and nature, Maheshwar offers travelers an enchanting glimpse of India's age-old traditions and incredible beauty.

Saputara

20, Saputara

Saputara, nestled in the Sahyadri range, is the only hill station in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Known for its lush greenery, enchanting waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes, it provides a serene escape for tourists from the hustle and bustle of city life. Famous for the boating facilities offered at Saputara Lake, the picturesque town boasts scenic trekking trails, an impressive sunset point, mystic tribal museums, and the remarkable Governor’s Hill. Visitors can also explore the Artist Village, known for its tribal crafts and arts, and the Saputara Tribal Museum, providing insightful glimpses of tribal culture and lifestyle. Pristine and peaceful, Saputara is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich heritage.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the safest places in India for solo female travellers?

The safest places in India for solo female travellers are:

What is the ranking methodology?

The ranking is based on over 5000 reviews from verified female travelers. Five crucial rating factors are taken into account: overall experience, food, safety, affordability, and things to do.