How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler in Varanasi

Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind: Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

1. Where to Stay

Choose accommodation close to the riverside and preferably in areas popular with other travelers. This not only helps with convenience but also ensures you can meet other solo travelers for shared experiences, particularly for exploring the city at night.

A recommended options are may you must take hotel at prime location , avoid booking in the narrow street, you can consider near Assi Ghat, a lively and well-connected area where you can find other like-minded tourists.

2. Dressing Modestly

Varanasi is a deeply spiritual and holy city. As a solo female traveler, it’s best to dress modestly, especially near temples and ghats. Wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees is important to respect the local culture. Opt for T-shirts and trousers or long skirts to ensure you blend in comfortably with local customs.

3. Navigating the City

Daytime Travel: Explore the city during the day. The ghats and temples are safe during daylight hours, and you can also appreciate the vibrant life and spiritual rituals along the river.

Nighttime Safety: Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in less crowded areas. If you plan to visit places like Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat after sunset, consider joining a group or hiring a reputable guide.

Don’t Walk by Yourself at Night in Varanasi

As a solo female traveler, it’s always advisable to avoid walking alone at night, and Varanasi is no exception. While it may seem obvious, it’s important to stress this point, especially in a city like Varanasi, which can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of people and chaotic energy. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Varanasi is an extremely busy city, with constant activity and crowds, especially in the main areas. In these bustling parts of the city, like near the ghats and main roads, you might feel relatively safe even at night, thanks to the noise and movement.

However, it’s best to avoid walking down smaller, less busy streets or venturing along the quieter sections of the riverside at night. Some parts of the river are well-lit and lively, while others can be dimly lit and isolated, which poses unnecessary risks. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Suggested Read:  Varanasi Uttar Pradesh India | Things to Do | Places to visit

Be Firm with People (Mainly Men)

As a solo female traveler in Varanasi, it’s common to encounter men who approach you, especially along the river Ganges. While some of them may just be curious or looking to have a conversation, it can become tiresome, particularly if you are approached frequently. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Men often seem more inclined to strike up a conversation when you’re alone, as this happens less frequently when you’re walking with others. While most interactions are harmless, it can still feel intrusive, especially when you’re trying to enjoy your time or explore the city independently. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

To handle these situations, it’s essential to be firm and direct. Polite cues such as “It was nice to meet you” or “Lovely talking to you” may not be effective, and you might find that they continue to walk with you or keep talking.

The best approach is to clearly and confidently express that you’d like to end the conversation. Saying something like, “I’m busy and need to go now” or “I prefer to explore alone” works well. Don’t hesitate to be more assertive if necessary—direct communication is often the most effective way to set boundaries.

If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable or if the situation escalates, don’t hesitate to draw attention to yourself. Often, bystanders will be quick to help if they notice something isn’t right. Prioritize your comfort and safety in every interaction.

Be Careful of Bhang Lassi’s

If you’re not familiar, Bhang Lassi is essentially a traditional Indian lassi drink laced with cannabis. It’s legal and quite popular in Varanasi, known for being particularly potent—though you might not realize just how strong it can be until after trying it. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Now, I’m not here to tell you whether or not to try it—that’s entirely up to you. However, if you do decide to experience it, make sure you’re in a group with people you trust. This is important because the effects can be much stronger than expected, especially if you’re unprepared.

In my experience, I tried it with other backpackers from my hostel, expecting a light, gentle effect. But it was far from that—it hit me like a truck! I ended up hallucinating on and off for 4 hours, and the experience was far from enjoyable for me. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

While some might enjoy the trip, for me, it was overwhelming, and I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re fully aware of what you’re getting into. So, if you do give it a go, proceed with caution and make sure you’re in a safe environment with trusted people. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Don’t Drink Alcohol in Excess

As Varanasi is a holy city, alcohol isn’t widely available. However, you may find it in some hostels or hotels.

If you do choose to drink, avoid drinking to excess, especially when you’re not in a group. Just like with the Bhang Lassi, it’s essential to remain fully aware and alert of your surroundings to avoid potentially vulnerable situations.

Stay Connected – Download an eSIM or Get a Local SIM

As a solo traveler, it’s essential to have access to data. This is particularly useful if you get lost or find yourself in an unexpected situation. Having data can give you peace of mind, especially when using Google Maps to check if your taxi or tuk-tuk driver is heading in the right direction. Is Vara nasi safe for solo female Travellers

If your phone is unlocked, getting a local SIM, with Airtel being the most reliable network in India, is a cost-effective option. Alternatively, if a local SIM isn’t an option, consider downloading an eSIM from one of the many companies offering them. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Don’t Tell Strangers Where You Are Staying (or Post It on Social Media Until You’ve Left)

Even though it may seem harmless to mention your accommodation or tag your location on social media, it’s better to err on the side of caution. There have been cases where women were tracked down after revealing their location.

In Varanasi, people may casually ask where you’re staying, especially near the river Ganges. If asked, it’s best to respond vaguely, like saying “over there somewhere” and pointing in a non-specific direction. Always be mindful of sharing personal details, even if the person seems harmless. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Let Family and Friends Know Your Whereabouts

To add an extra layer of security, always keep your family and close friends informed about your location, your accommodation, and your travel plans. This not only gives your loved ones peace of mind but can be extremely helpful in case something unexpected happens. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

Use Google Translate Offline

While many people in Varanasi speak English, it’s always handy to have Google Translate or a similar app downloaded on your phone. Having it available offline can help you navigate conversations if you find yourself in a situation where communication becomes difficult. This tool can be a lifesaver when you’re dealing with language barriers.

Bad experiences in Varanasi 

On my first day in Varanasi, I noticed a man following me along the riverside. After confirming he was indeed tailing me, I confronted him firmly, telling him to stop. He got the message and left. Despite this incident, I never felt unsafe, thanks to the bustling environment and the presence of other people. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

It’s important to acknowledge the potential risks as a solo female traveler in Varanasi, just as anywhere else. While Varanasi is a vibrant, spiritual city, you may occasionally encounter uncomfortable situations, like the one you mentioned. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

You handled the situation well by being direct and confronting the man who was following you. It’s essential to trust your instincts and take action when you feel something is off. In busy areas like the riverbank in Varanasi, there are usually plenty of people around, which can add a layer of safety, as you noted.

Though such incidents can be unsettling, they don’t necessarily reflect the overall safety of the city. Varanasi remains a popular destination for solo travelers, and most visits are positive, as long as you stay cautious and assertive when needed. Is Varanasi safe for solo female Travellers

By being firm and aware of your surroundings, you can still enjoy everything this fascinating city has to offer.