What Women Need to Know When Backpacking in India
As a result, women traveling in India might feel terrified or at least nervous. When I decided I wanted to backpack through India by myself, my friends and family tried to dissuade me by claiming that it was too perilous. But I didn’t want the fear to stop me from traveling to a country that was calling me. So I gathered all the courage I had and prepared for the adventure of a lifetime. I was gladly surprised when I found many other solo women traveling in India defying the statistics and enjoying the wonderful experiences that this incredible country has to offer.
After five months of traveling alone through the whole subcontinent I can say that India is safe for women, but it is important to take some essential safety measures:
What Women Need to Know When Backpacking in India
1. When interacting with Indian men, keep a cautious distance.
Even a small gesture could be taken the wrong way. It is important that you stand up for yourself and make them value you as an equal.
2. Wear modest clothes.
Always cover your shoulders and knees to follow the dress code of the conservative society. Try to blend in by adapting to the fashion of the place, which is nothing short of amazing, and can be really fun.
3. Plan your travels carefully so you don’t arrive in a new destination after sunset.
Don’t go anywhere alone at night. If you can’t find a companion who will travel with you after dark, then stay in the hotel until daylight. Always lock your room from the inside when sleeping.
4. Stay away from big groups of people.
Do this even if it means missing out on some metropolitan destinations such as Delhi and Mumbai, where most rapes take place.
5. Follow your instincts.
If you ever find yourself in any uncomfortable situation, don’t hesitate to ask for help or to use your weapons (pepper spray is always handy). Be secure in yourself and always stand up for what you think is right. Show that you are an empowered woman who won’t take anything but respect from a man.
Photo by Patricia Sainz de rozas.
Patricia Sainz de rozas is a Spanish explorer from Madrid, an avid traveler and a backpacker. She started traveling through Europe at a very young age visiting Portugal, Ireland, Italy, France, the U.K, the Netherlands, and more. When she turned 19 she moved to a precious alpine lake in northern California called Lake Tahoe where she obtained her MBA in Journalism and Photography. After five marvelous years studying, working and traveling in the United States, Patricia went on a solo trip throughout India and Sri Lanka. She lived in an ashram in the state of Kerala, south India, where she studied yoga and obtained a certificate as a yoga teacher. Embarking on a trip to Panama soon, she is a free nomadic soul who is eager to discover every last corner of the world.
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hola patricia how are u I read your comments always be safe . I m from delhi city but currently I m working in Thailand in resort in front office department .I would like to be your friend if u say because I like spain so much and Spanish language gracias.