Is India safe for women travellers? Practical advice

• Staring, especially outside big cities. It is usually curiosity rather than hostility, but it can be tiring.
• Requests for selfies. It is fine to say no.
• Crowds where unwanted touching can happen, such as busy markets, festivals and stations.
• Great kindness, especially from Indian women and families, who will often help if you ask.

• Dress: Loose clothes covering shoulders and knees, and a scarf. Dressing like local women draws less attention.
• Transport: Use prepaid taxi booths or app taxis, and share your trip with a friend. Delhi's metro has a women only carriage at the front of each train.
• Queues: Stations, ticket offices and some sights have separate queues for women. Use them.
• After dark: Avoid walking alone in quiet areas at night, and arrange transport in advance for late arrivals.
• Hotels: Choose well reviewed hotels and check reviews from other women travellers.
• Be firm: A clear, loud response draws attention and support from people nearby. Trust your instincts and leave any situation that feels wrong.

Tip: India's single emergency number is 112, which connects to police, fire and ambulance. Save it in your phone with your hotel's number before you arrive.

Many women, especially on a first visit, choose a small group tour or a private tour with a trusted driver and guide. It removes the stress of late arrivals, transport and touts. Some operators run women only departures or can arrange a female guide.