I have been a traveller since childhood, first I used to travel with my parents and since I started working and become a full-time travel blogger, I mostly travel solo to explore, for events, seek inspiration for my books and workshops! I have explored majority of India. Travelling in India makes me so proud of my country. I can talk for hours on how beautiful and rich in cultural heritage and landscapes our India is. But there are so many myths about our country that mislead people and make them wonder if travelling in India safe? In this post, I am debunking 8 travel myths about India and will explain how safe is India for travellers.
Is Travelling in India Safe:
1. Public Transport
At some point of time, you will have to use a public transport, whether be bus, train, taxi, auto or rickshaw. Not including aeroplane because everyone who travels knowns its the safest. For other modes of transport, I believe if you choose the right time and right mode, then you can always be safe. Robbery and looting is not common in India but it is there, just like other countries. Therefore, I would advise you to not to wear shimmery golds and diamonds when travelling by local means of public transports.
2. Violence
Well, be sure that violence is not common in India. Whether be Kashmir or Kerala, you can travel freely, until there is an official declaration by the govt. about the restrictions.
3. Natural disasters
Just like other parts of the world, India too is prone to earthquakes, floods and other natural calamities. I would highly advice you to check the climate of the place before visiting and plan your trip accordingly. For example, land slides are very common during the monsoons in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, so make sure you be careful about it.
4. Mugging and Kidnapping
Be sure, it doesn’t happen here. I have not heard any such case with tourists. Talking about frauds, well that can happen anywhere. So, make sure you book your cab and hotels and trip packages through trusted sites only. Foreigners, especially who don’t know Hindi might get scammed by auto rickshaw and cab drivers as they might charge as 100rs for a ride that would just cost 20rs. Otherwise, it is all cool here!
5. Solo female travellers
India is extra cautious for solo female travellers and help is available for anyone in need. I have traveller to many parts of India, including some really remote ones and that too solo, and I did not feel scared. Everyone I met was helping and friendly. I would suggest you to take all precautions when travelling (like taking care about the timings, your belongings etc) and you’ll be fine.
6. Wild animals
Yes, there are wild animals in India especially near the forest reserves, sanctuaries and jungles, but they usually don’t harm. You wait silently for them to cross the road or pass by and you’ll be fine. If you try to tackle them, then can’t really say what might happen.
Tips to be safe while travelling:
- Avoid roaming alone in night at a deserted or poorly lit/dark area
- Do not wear expensive gems and jewellery when travelling
- You are travelling for your own self and not for some fashion show, hence wear something comfy and not revealing or that makes you look rich especially when taking a local public transport, applicable for both men and women.
- Always carry a portable battery for your phone in SOS situations
- Always carry cash and put it in some extra (secret) pockets
- Always inform someone about your travel plans
- Do not go with any unknown person to a lonely place even if they promise to give you free accommodation or show you a place
- Every city has tourist help centres, visit that in case of need
Hope this helps!
Also read:
How to Travel for Free in India? Is it Really Possible?
Patal Bhuvaneshwar – India’s Most Mysterious Cave Temple
26 Places To Visit Near Delhi for a Short Trip
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