A solo trip for a girl is something that she dreams of at least once in her lifetime. Female bloggers and Bollywood movie characters like Naina from Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Laila from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara blow more fuel on the fire, as they say.
Having the freedom to explore every corner of a brand-new city without any second thoughts about our decisions is a dream come true. Travelling solo enables one to discover themselves in a more intimate and personal way.
It is natural for women to strive to become self-sufficient. But their desire to explore the unknown alone is even more powerful. However, safety comes first.
India has been regarded as an unsafe place for quite some time now, especially for women, which has often prevented them from venturing out alone. Nevertheless, there are some friendly states in India that are safe and welcoming! And that surely includes your beloved state ‘Himachal Pradesh’.
So women! Whether it’s concerned about safety or confusion about where and how to plan your trip, we’ve got your back! The time has come for you to let go of your hesitations and explore solo travel.
And that’s exactly why we at Insta Himachal have compiled a list of some of the safest destinations in Himachal Pradesh that will satisfy your wanderlust.
First things first, even though Himachal is safe, you never know with some miscreants. So just in case.
Here Are Some Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers in Himachal Pradesh
1. It’s pepper spray! Whenever you are travelling alone, you should always keep pepper spray in your bag for safety reasons.
2. When someone stares at you, politely let them know that you know they’re staring, and ask them to stop, or you can simply ignore them. There are times when people stare out of curiosity, rather than with the intention of wooing.
3. Make sure there is someone at the homestay/hotel who knows where you are going if you’re going on a long trek.
4. Always carry the essentials, such as medications, a phone, a flashlight, and a rain jacket for treks.
5. Listen to your instincts and remember what you have experienced before. It’s normal to feel more aware while hiking or walking in the mountains alone.
6. Before heading out, check with locals. Locals can connect you with a guide if you are planning to hike alone. Locals would probably know if a landslide happened, if there was talk of a lingering bear, or if something else was happening. Don’t take any chances!
7. Make sure you know the phone number of the Homestay and Guesthouses or Hotel in case of an emergency.
8. Have a great time! It isn’t strange to find a solo female traveller in Himachal Pradesh.
Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh For Female Solo Travelers
1. Dharamshala
2. Dalhousie
3. Jibhi
4. Kasauli
5. Lahaul Spiti
6. Shimla
1. Dharamshala
Fortunately, Dharamshala is very welcoming to women. There’s no place as secure as Dharamshala! Many female solo travellers enjoy exploring Dharamshala and McLeodganj independently.
Once you’re here, you cannot help but stare at the Himalayas as they form a captivating backdrop. Neither Dharamshala or McLeodagnj will let you go. Fresh air, the breathtaking view, delicious food at the wonderful cafes, and warm people who always want to help are just a few of the things sure to leave a lasting impression.
In this Himalayan territory, solo female travellers are often seen exploring rare places. Some even practise yoga alone on hills or cliffs. The natural world returns positivity tenfold.
Places to Visit in Dharamshala- Indrunag, Mcleodganj, Naddi, Khaniyara, Boh valley.
Best Time to Visit– March to June is the best. Summers are pleasant here.
Things To Do in Dharamshala– Paragliding, Camping, Cricket Match at HPCA Stadium, Visit Dal Lake, Triund Trek, Meditate at Gyuto Monastery, Dharamsala War Memorial, Kareri Lake Trek, Visit Jwalamukhi Devi Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall, Visit Tea Gardens, Explore Kangra Fort, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple, and many more.
2. Dalhousie
What comes to mind when you hear the name Dalhousie? Mini Switzerland maybe. Well, there’s a lot more. The hill station will capture your senses with its waterfalls, rivers that snake through mountains, trails that run parallel to mountain crags with a view of the Dhauladhar range, and a couple of churches built during the British Raj. Watching the picturesque green environment and snow-covered mountains from the top of the mountain is an absolute delight. It’s a pleasant change from the scorching heat in the lower areas of the country during the summer when the golden sun shines. For nature lovers, Dalhousie is the ultimate destination!
Nevertheless, Dalhousie is just the right place for you if you are a female solo traveler looking for a place to be yourself.
Places to Visit in Dalhousie- Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, Khajjiar, Panchpula, and St. John’s Church.
Best Time to Visit– Say from March to June.
Things to do in Dalhousie- You can try rafting, paragliding, trekking, river crossing, and more adventure activities.
3. Jibhi
Jibhi, surrounded by lush green mountains, pine forests, freshwater lakes and pristine villages, is sure to become a top holiday destination in India in the coming years. This picturesque place is a sight not to be missed. There are lots of reasons why one would completely fall in love with Jibhi: sleeping hamlets, ancient temples, immaculate hiking trails, beautiful forests, and spectacular landscapes. Jibhi is primarily known for its local culture. There are still Victorian and native-style stone and wood cottages and huts along Jibhi’s streets, providing a blend of old colonial charm and local folk traditions.
Places to Visit in Jibhi- Jibhi Waterfall, Chehni Kothi, Jalori Pass, Shringa Rishi Temple.
Best Time to Visit– The Best time to visit Jibhi is from March to May. A pleasant summer day in Jibhi is followed by a chilly night. Making it one of the most offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh to visit in summer.
Things to do in Jibhi- Village walks, Do Serolsar Trek, visit Stay in a tree house, these are a few things that you’ll love doing.
4. Kasauli
Kasauli is one of the jewels in the crown of Himachal Pradesh. Kasauli is situated in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, and it boasts some of the most breathtaking attractions with soothing and invigorating effects. It is a wonderful experience to watch pine and cedar trees sway under the forceful winds coming from the majestic Himalayas. Due to its mystical ambience and safety, Kasauli is one of the most popular destinations for female solo travellers these days. Experience the tranquillity of a quiet hill station while enjoying your own company.
Places to Visit in Kasauli- The Mall Road, Monkey Point, Sunset Point, Gilbert Trail.
Best Time to Visit– During the months of April to June, and again from September to November, is the best time to visit Kasauli.
Things to do in Kasauli– Nature walks, Toy train ride, explore the Tibetan market, and Experience the timber trail.
5. Lahaul Spiti
Here, nature is raw – with very scant vegetation, peaks covered in snow, and many untouched gems. Unlike other Himachali towns, Spiti is not a tourist hotspot, which is one of the main reasons to visit it. With some of the highest passes in the world, age-old monasteries, crystal blue lakes, and minus all the technology, Spiti Valley is a perfect example of ‘off-beat’ vacation. The Buddhist mantra ‘Om Mani Padme Hum‘ is carved on large prayer wheels and stones at the entrances of many villages. The isolation of a village might make you wonder how these communities are able to survive.
Places to Visit in Lahaul Spiti- Monasteries, Chandratal Lake, Kunzum Pass, Kibber etc.
Best Time to Visit– During the summer months, between May and October, is the most ideal time to visit this remote, yet stunning part of Himachal Pradesh. Roads remain clear of ice only during this time. Come August and autumn, the valley is ablaze with colour! Lahaul & Spiti conceals its beauty under a thick blanket of snow in the wintertime.
Things to do in Lahaul Spiti– Meditate at monasteries, Trek to Dhankar Lake, Star gazing, Nako Village walks, Chill by Spiti river.
6. Shimla
How about a winter retreat or a summer retreat? Are you looking for an adventure? Will you be travelling alone? Shimla has everything! The quintessential hill station lives up to its reputation with natural wonders, breathtaking architectural wonders, temples, and much more. Whether you’re travelling alone or with a group, Shimla is clearly on most people’s bucket lists. Here you can visit Jakhu Temple and Kufri, go trekking, or explore the markets and streets of Shimla. All of the places are very secure, offer a variety of hotels at reasonable prices, and even have guides to show you around the queen of picturesque attractions. In other words, women who plan solo trips to Himachal, make sure this place is included in your itinerary.
Places to Visit in Shimla– The Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, Kalka Shimla Highway, Indian Institute of Advanced studies.
Best Time to Visit– There is something new and unique in Shimla all year round, be it during the snowy winters or during the lush green monsoons. For instance, there is something new to observe and experience during the snowy winters compared to the lush green summer monsoons.
Things to do in Shimla- Explore Lakkar Bazar, Eat at quirky cafes, Visit Chadwick falls, Ice skating in winters, Toy train ride, Camping, and Cycling.
So gals! Get out of your comfort zone, explore new things, and gain a better perspective of yourself and the world around you. Plan a solo trip to Himachal Pradesh. At Least now you have enough reasons to get excited about. The most critical thing is how systematically you plan your trip to Himachal so that you can get the most out of it with the minimum of effort. Do good research and you will absolutely have the time of your life with a carefully planned solo trip to Himachal Pradesh.
If you still have doubts because it’s a new place for you to travel to, don’t worry we’ll back you up. Contact instahimachal@gmail.com for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it advisable to travel alone in Himachal Pradesh?
Solo travellers can feel quite secure in Himachal. Solo travellers would love Himachal Pradesh’s places like Dharamshala, Dalhousie, McLeod Ganj, Kasauli, Shimla, and more.
2. Is Himachal safe at night?
Yes, it is safe at night in Himachal Pradesh, however, don’t take risks like going out alone at night. Wild animals are more likely to attack at night, so avoid travelling in the open.
3. How many days are enough for Himachal Pradesh?
7-8 days should be enough. Travel plans totally depend on the kind of activities you want to explore, your preferences, as well as what your budget is.
