10 Safety Tips for Women Traveling in India

Apr 08 2015

There is no denying the safety issues that women face when traveling in India. The recent media coverage of the brutality, rape, and violence against women has left many female travelers changing their plans and scratching India off the list.

After just returning from a solo trip to India, I will say this: if you can arrange your plans to travel with someone else, by all means do it. But if you do find yourself on your own, it is still 100% possible to enjoy the beauty of India while staying safe as a solo female traveler.

Below are 10 useful tips to stay safe, happy, and healthy while traveling in India!

1. Wear Conservative Clothing

India is a socially conservative country. Women’s clothing always covers the shoulders, chest, and legs. Younger generations are beginning to adopt a more Western style, but that still doesn’t mean that shorts and tank tops are acceptable. Jeans and t-shirts with a high neckline are fine. You may feel even more comfortable dressing in the local style. Of course, you don’t have to wear a full 6-yard saree to fit in! A kurta (tunic) over leggings or jeans is another popular style.

2. Follow Cultural Cues

Take cues from the Indian women around you – you’ll notice that they don’t smile at anyone they don’t know. Being friendly can often be misinterpreted. Don’t worry about appearing rude; it is okay to ignore seemingly harmless conversation from a stranger. Many people will approach you and ask to take a picture, or ask where you are from. It is okay to say, “no thank you” and keep walking. Use your best judgement – I didn’t mind taking pictures or chatting with women and children. However, anytime that a group of men approached me, I avoided direct eye contact and continued on my way.

3. Blend In and Act Confident

Stay alert to your surroundings and look confident. If you are lost, stop and ask a woman or family for directions. You will constantly be asked, “Is this your first time in India?” Your answer should always be no. You want to portray yourself as someone who is knowledgeable and comfortable in her surroundings. Men are more likely to target women that look vulnerable and lost.

4. Keep Valuables Hidden

Keep your valuables in a secure location within easy reach. Pouches that can be fastened to your waist or worn under clothing are the safest way to carry cash. Avoid shoulder bags that can be snatched, cut open from the bottom, or left to accidentally hang open. Never keep all of your money and valuable documents in the same place or with you at one time – sort out enough for the day, and leave the rest in a secure location. Try to break large bills in established restaurants, shops, or hotels, and keep a handful of small bills for transportation and shopping at the local markets.

5. Don’t (Appear To) Be Alone

Try to travel with someone else whenever possible. When you are alone, try to walk or sit next to other women and families. If traveling by public transportation, sit in the women-only section. Appearing to be married will also greatly deter any unwelcome advances. You might consider wearing a ring or even toe rings (the Hindu sign of marriage).

One evening I was taking a rickshaw by myself, and I started to feel uncomfortable as the journey was taking unusually long. I answered a fake call on my cell phone and started telling my “friend” that I was on the way and would meet him shortly. I was quickly dropped off at my destination.

6. Let Someone Know Where You Are

Throughout my trip, I would send friends and family texts that said something like, “Last seen: Delhi Train Station, 4pm.” It was a joke, but it made me feel better to know that someone knew where I was. If anything went wrong, they would be able to track me down. When traveling by yourself, avoid passing long periods of time without telling anyone where you are or how you can be reached.

7. Plan Ahead

Book your transportation and accommodation ahead of time, so that you know exactly where you’re going and how to get there. Arrive during the day – never travel alone at night. If you absolutely must arrive in the evening, have your hotel arrange the driver rather than using a taxi off the street. If you aren’t able to do this, choose a reputable taxi service such as Meru’s Pink Fleet or Ola.

8. Make Copies of Travel Documents

Make photocopies of your passport, insurance, and any other important documentation. If your passport is stolen, this will greatly expedite the process to get a new passport from your embassy. I always carry a printed page with the address and phone number of my destination. Cell phones die, and drivers aren’t always keen on the pinch-and-zoom technique! It may be old-school, but a piece of paper is reliable and easy to read.

9. Learn Key Phrases in the Local Language

Knowing just a few words in Hindi – particularly, “Help!” or “Stop!” can be a life-saver in a dangerous situation. Even a loud, “chale jao” (go away) should be effective to stop anyone from bothering you.

10. Be Aware of Common Auto Scams

Always use a metered taxi or auto rickshaw. If you get into a vehicle and the driver doesn’t automatically turn the meter on, point to it and ask for them to start it. If they refuse, get out and find another. After 2-3 attempts, you will find an honest driver. If you’re feeling unsafe, take a picture of the driver’s license and plate number for extra security.