By Chanda Bisht
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” – Helen Keller
In the midst of office work, laundry, making dinner, and so on, we all yearn for a break to relax and find peace. This calls for a trip! Travelling solo as a woman can be an empowering and enriching experience. However, for women in South Asia, safety concerns often arise, limiting our freedom to travel.
But fear not! There are numerous destinations where women can feel safe and enjoy their journeys in South Asia, a region known for its vibrant, diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. Here’s our list of the safest destinations for solo women travellers in South Asia:
Bhutan
Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom nestled in the Himalayas, also known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a top-notch safe country in South Asia, making it perfect for women travellers.
If you seek inspiration, serenity, and wonder then Bhutan with its awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural heritage is an ideal destination.
Paro, one of the four airports in Bhutan, is known for its sacred heritage and historical architecture. The legendary Paro Taktsang, better known as the Tiger’s Nest, is quite popular for its breathtaking monastery, greenery, and jaw-dropping views.
Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, is a fortress-monastery and an impressive sight with its intricate architecture and beautiful courtyards. The National Museum of Bhutan, located in Ta Dzong (watchtower), offers insights into Bhutanese culture, history, and art.
Don’t forget to check out the vibrant market here, and indulge in handicrafts and local delicacies. The Bhutanese people’s hospitality is next level! From warm smiles to heartfelt welcomes, you’ll definitely feel at home.
Sri Lanka
The Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, is another safe destination for women travellers. The country is known for its hospitality and friendly locals, making it a welcoming destination. From serene beaches to lush green plantations, this eyedrop in the Indian Ocean has it all.
Sri Lanka’s pilgrim heritage holds significant archaeological value, captivating history enthusiasts and seekers of serenity alike. Colombo, the capital city, combines modernity with traditional charm and is noted for its safety.
Its well-developed infrastructure and friendly locals provide a comfortable atmosphere for women to explore markets, temples, and beaches with confidence.
Sri Lanka boasts stunning beaches such as Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Arugam Bay, perfect for relaxation, surfing, or sunbathing. Whether exploring cultural landmarks or enjoying the coastal scenery, Sri Lanka ensures a safe and memorable journey for women travellers.
Nepal
Home to the majestic Mount Everest, Nepal is a haven for adventurous women travellers. Since it generally has a lower crime rate compared to many other countries, it is considered as a safe travel destination. Kathmandu, the lively capital of Nepal, is enriching and majestic in its own way.
Places like the Garden of Dreams, Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), and Thamel are definitely worth visiting. Each of these sites holds deep cultural and historical significance, reflecting Nepal’s rich heritage and traditions.
Cities like Bhaktapur and Pokhara are safe hubs and offer a range of diverse activities, from trekking to cultural tours. In Pokhara, you can enjoy the peaceful Phewa Lake and trek through the stunning Annapurna ranges.
Bhaktapur captivates the hearts of travellers with its lovely architecture and fascinating culture. The Nepalese are known for their welcoming demeanour and respect for tourists, making it a secure nation and comfortable destination for women.
Maldives
Nestled like a string of pearls in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives, known as
‘The Sunny Side of Life’, attracts beach lovers and promises a secure environment for women travellers.
The luxurious and magnificent resorts on private islands ensure privacy and security, while local islands like Maafushi are becoming increasingly popular for more budget-conscious travellers.
While the Maldives is considered a safe destination overall, its capital Malé is the safest city within the island nation. Malé beckons tourists with its elegant markets, colourful mosques, and bustling streets.
Maldivian hospitality is known worldwide, ensuring that women travellers feel welcomed and respected throughout their stay. Whether you’re basking in the sun on a secluded beach, savouring local cuisine, or exploring cultural treasures, the Maldives islands offer a calm and secure experience with captivating natural beauty and warm hospitality.
India
Despite its checkered record in women’s safety, there are beautiful destination within India that prioritise women’s safety significantly, like Kerala in the south, Ladakh in the north, and others. Here’s a rundown:
Kerala: Known for its lush greenery, serene beaches, and centuries-old trade links with the rest of the world, Kerala is also called ‘God’s Own Country’. It not only captivates visitors with its natural beauty but also ensures a safe and welcoming environment for tourists from around the world.
Kerala (called ‘Keralam’ in Malayalam) has the highest literacy rate in India, and its population is well-informed about world affairs and is welcoming of tourists.
Kochi, the vibrant port city, offers a bustling market known for its spices and handicrafts, while Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats, is known for its verdant tea plantations, misty hills, and cool climate. Both are considered among the safest tourist destinations within the state.
Ladakh: Situated in the northernmost region of India, Ladakh attracts visitors with its eye-catching, stunning scenery and landscapes. Home to various ancient monasteries and majestic mountains, this ‘Land of High Passes’ holds a treasure trove of experiences. For women travellers, Ladakh not only promises wild adventures but also ensures a safe and welcoming environment to explore its wonders.
Besides these two states in the north and south, these holiday destinations across the rest of India are also welcoming of women tourists:
- Jaipur: The engaging capital of Rajasthan captivates the hearts of visitors with its majestic forts and stunning architecture. This vibrant city prioritises tourism safety and a fabulous shopping experience.
- Goa: Nestled along the western coast of India, known for its pristine beaches, amazing nightlife, and Portuguese colonial heritage, Goa is another destination that women travellers usually head to.
- Pune: Amidst the verdant hills of Maharashtra, Pune, known as the ‘Oxford of the East’ for its esteemed educational institutions, captivates visitors with its diverse attractions, vibrant festivals, and secure atmosphere.
- Gangtok: The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok houses iconic monasteries and is a favourite destination for trekkers from around the world. Women feel safe here due to its friendly locals, especially its empowered women.
- Hyderabad: A foodie’s delight, the capital of Telangana is renowned for its history and architecture. Prepare to shop and make lots of local friends!
While this list is hardly exhaustive, travellers are advised to conduct their own research to ensure safety and suitability. Ready to go solo? Here are 15 tips for solo women travellers!
Lead image: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels
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