The number of solo women travelers in India is on the rise. India is one exceptionally beautiful place to visit and with the warmest people. The country has a way of creating of the fondest vacations. Let go your worries and pack your bags.
India has so much to offer that one trip shall hardly suffice. If you crave to shun daily routines of life and escape, there is nothing better than solo travel in India. You discover a new place and in the middle of it, you discover yourself. Solo travel is therapeutic no matter your age.
Women while traveling are often in stress about safety, so we have listed the 10 Best Destinations for Solo Women Travelers in India:
1. Nainital
One of the most beautiful places in India, Nainital is thrilling for vacations for solo women. Nestled in Uttarakhand, this town is everything you would imagine for a restful vacation. The main lure of the Nainital is the Naini Lake, where boating is fun.
You can also try yachting. But that is not all. The ancient Naina Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, the revered site of the Goddess Shakti. There are beautiful viewpoints like the Snow View, Dorothy’s peak. Go trekking, explore the markets or enjoy a relaxing vacation.
What to do in Nainital?
Explore Snow View, Tiffin Top, China Peak, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, Sattal, Lover’s Point, Himalaya Darshan, ride the Ropeway (Cable Car), Nanda Devi Temple, Jama Masjid, Pangot, Cave Garden, Boat House Club.
Best Time to Visit
October to June
How to Reach
The beautiful hill station of Uttarakhand is easily accessible by air, rail and road. Pantnagar Airport, 65 km from Nainital is the nearest air connection while Kathgodam Railway Station, 34 km from Nainital offers train connections.
[Explore our Nainital Holiday Packages]
2. Varanasi
Divinely blessed, Varanasi is one of the best destinations for women travelers in India. The city on the banks of the River Ganga is a breathtaking experience. People from all walks of life are seen here, discovering themselves and the secrets of universe, the circle of life and death. Do attend the evening Ganga Aarti, it’s divine. Mantras, the aromas, music, and the spectacular worship of the river Goddess with fire is amazing. Go for a boat ride in evening. Visit the temples nearby. It is a great for spiritual nourishment.
What to do in Varanasi?
Visit Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, Dashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort and Museum, Gyan Kupor Well, Tulsi Manas Temple, New Vishwanath Temple, Durga Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, etc.
Best Time to Visit
October to April
How to Reach
Varanasi is well-connected from cities of India. Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport in the city is the closest airport. Varanasi Railway station is the nearest rail connection.
[Check out some Amazing Varanasi Tour Packages]
3. Udaipur
In a matchless setting, Udaipur beams like a fairyland. Not just a beautiful city in Rajasthan, it is highly hospitable making it one of the top places for solo women travelers in India.
The city is called one of the most romantic places in India, but that does not make your solo travel any less exciting. It has spectacular architecture and lively culture.
Marvel at the exquisite architecture of the palaces, temples, and the lakes. Puppets are a speciality of the town so do attend a puppetry show. Women absolutely love shopping and this colorful city is perfect to browse through.
What to do in Udaipur?
Lake Palace, City Palace, Lake Pichola, Ahar Museum, Sajjan Garh/ Monsoon Palace, Bagore ki Haveli, Sunset Point & Machla Magra, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyo ki Bari and Jag Mandir
Best Time to Visit
July to March
How to Reach
It is quite convenient to travel to Udaipur, by air, rail and road. Maharana Airport is just 22 km from Udaipur. The city is well connected by train as well as road from all over India.
4. Kovalam
If you are a beach lover and want to avoid the crowded ones, then Kovalam is where you should be. Blessed with some of the most beautiful shores, it is one of best places for solo women travelers in India. Kovalam in Kerala is set amid natural beauty and tranquility.
It has a number of leisure options such as sunbathing, swimming, cultural programs and other watersports. The town also has shopping complexes, Ayurvedic massage centers and health resorts. Make your solo trip exciting, watch the sunrise, pamper yourself in the resort and soak in the bliss.
What to do in Kovalam?
Visit the Lighthouse beach, Kovalam beach, and Hawa beaches, The Lighthouse, Karamana River and Boating, Vellayini Lake, Valiyathura Pier. Swimming, surfing, scuba diving, etc. are some of the things to definitely try.
Best Time to Visit
October to March
How to Reach
Located 12 km from Thiruvananthapuram, capital of Kerala, Kovalam is easily reachable by air, rail and road. Arrive at the airport or railway station and then drive to the beach town.
Interested in a Kovalam tour? Find some top packages here:
Best of Kerala
Essence of Kerala
Kovalam Ayurveda Tour
Trivandrum Beach Tour5. Shimla
Shimla happens to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. Touted as the safest hill stations of all, it is charming for solo travels. The fresh air of the mountain lures one and all, but for the solo women traveler it is therapeutic.
Go trekking and on mountain walks in the pristine surroundings. There are amazing things to see and do in the hill town. If you are still thinking, then visit Shimla for its safe lodging options, delicious food and the refreshing experience.
What to do in Shimla?
Christ Church, State Museum, Viceregal Lodge, Town Hall, Jakhoo Temple, Gaiety Museum, Kali Bari Temple, Himalayan Bird Park and Kufri.
Best Time to Visit
October to June
How to Reach
Board the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train to reach the hill station. Nearest airport is in Chandigarh, 117 km away. It is also possible to drive to the hill town. AC buses, state owned bus and luxury coaches make way for the hill town.
Find below some tastefully crafted Shimla tour packages:
Complete Himachal Tour
Magnificent Shimla Manali Tour
Shimla Calling Tour
Shimla Short Escape6. Mysore
Listed as one of the safest places for women travelers in India, we come to Mysore. The cultural hub of Karnataka is interesting and amazing for solo traveling. There are wonderful sights to see, fun things to do and for the women there is incredible shopping.
The amiable folks of the town are quite helpful. Marvel at the amazing architecture of the palace and churches. Explore the markets where you can wonderful silk saris, sandalwood creations, brass carvings and so much more. The cuisine is definitely to be tried. You can escape the cities and enjoy the simple pleasures.
What to do in Mysore?
Mysore Palace, St. Philomena Church, Chamundi Hills, Government House, Rangacharlu, Jubilee Clock, Sri Chamundeswari Temple, Rail Museum.
Best Time to Visit
October to March
How to Reach
Bangalore International Airport, 170 km is the closest air connection. Mysore has its own railway station. It is convenient to take a KSRTC bus, a train or a taxi from Bangalore.
[Also Read: 12 Offbeat Places to Visit in Karnataka]
7. Sikkim
North East India is one of the most beautiful regions of our country and also one of the safest. The entire north-east is spectacular but, Sikkim, in particular is one of the best. It is one of the top places for solo travelers in India and particularly the women.
Starting with the capital city, Gangtok is charming. It is blessed with pleasant weather, attractions, adventures and thrilling experiences.
Marvel at the snowcapped Mt. Kanchenjunga, the ethereal Tsomgo Lake and Gurudongmar Lakes. For an adventure junkie there are scenic trails like Dzongri La Trek, Goecha La Trek and Green Valley Treks.
What to do in Sikkim?
Rumtek Gompa, Nathu La Pass, Samdruptse, Norbugang Park, Ganesh Tok, Khecheopalri Lake, Guru Padmasambhava Statue, Rabdentse, Pelling, Hot Water Springs, Tsomgo Lake, Namchi, Yumthang Valley, Golden Stupa, Yuksom, Ravangla
Best Time to Visit
April to June and October to November
How to Reach
Sikkim’s closet air and rail connections are available in Bagdogra and New Jalpaiguri respectively. It takes 5-6 hours to get to Gangtok.
8. Rishikesh
Settled on the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand along the banks of River Ganga, Rishikesh is next on our list of best destinations in India for solo women tourists. Full on adventure and bliss, Rishikesh is known as both the ‘river rafting capital in India’ as well as the ‘Yoga capital of the world’.
The hill town offers what your heart desires. The most exhilarating adventures like river rafting, camping, fox-flying, bungee jumping and cliff jumping, etc. as well as the therapeutic experience of yoga and meditation.
What to do in Rishikesh?
Viist Swarg Niwas Temple, Shri Trayanbakshwar Temple, Swarg Ashram, Lakshman Jhula, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Asharam, Neelkantha Mahadev Temple, Neergarh Waterfall. Try camping, river rafting and other adventures. Attend an evening Ganga aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
Best Time to Visit
March to June and October to November
How to Reach
Rishikesh is well connected by all modes of transport. The closest airport is in Dehradun and the nearest railway station is in Haridwar.
9. Hampi
Listed among the UNESCO world heritage sites in India, Hampi attracts a large number of foreign tourists every year. Recently, more and more solo travelers are making their way to the town. The historic ruins of Hampi treasures the largest and the richest human settlement in its glorious days.
If you are in search of an escape from the city lives, Hampi is just for you. The small town charm, the historic setting and the amiable people with make this one of the best places for solo traveling in India, particularly for women as it is one of the safest travel destinations in India.
What to do in Hampi?
Hemakuta Hill, Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Zenana Enclosure, Elephant Stables, Underground Shiva Temple, Sule Bazaar and Achyutaraya Temple, Nandi Statue, Queen’s Bath and Royal Centre.
Best Time to Visit
October to March
How to Reach
The nearest railhead from Hampi is Hospet that is at a distance of 13 km. Hubli airport is the closest airhead.
10. Puducherry
The French colony of India, Pondicherry is a beautiful place for vacations. Adorned with classic French architecture, beaches, the explored ones and the unexplored ones and the delightful cafes, you are sure to have a memorable time.
Perfect for solo women travelers in India, Puducherry is everything you wished for. There are beaches, cafes offering mouthwatering French delicacies, cycling tours, a spiritual world to be discovered in the Aurobindo Ashram and so much more. Perfectly safe and enjoyable, have a great time alone or you can easily make friends here with the likeminded souls.
What to do in Puducherry?
Explore Pondicherry Beach, Promenade, Raj Niwas, Pondicherry Botanical Garden, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Pondicherry Museum, Statue of Dupleix, Arikamedu, Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus, French War Memorial, Chunnambar backwater, etc.
Best Time to Visit
October to March
How to Reach
Pondicherry has its own railway station whereas the nearest air connectivity is in Chennai. One can easily drive from Chennai or other cities to get to Pondicherry.
Debashree Chakraborty
A travel writer by profession and self-professed addict to literature and travelling. Go through her penned down travel experiences on indianholiday.com
Helpful information, thanks for writing and sharing this information.
Hey Anita,
Much obliged for your kind words. Do follow our blog for more posts on India travel & tourism.
Yes, I loved Shimla and it is truly an amazing place for women solo travellers in India. Thanks for blogging. Keep posting and helping us.
Hey Solo Girl Traveller,
Thank you for your kind words. The Queen Of Hills is truly awesome! Check out the other amazing destinations, I am sure you would enjoy them too. Hope to hear from you some more. Keep following our blog!