Travelling to a new country can be a daunting experience for any one, more so for women travellers who need to be doubly careful with general and personal safety. Many travellers have the same question, is it safe for women to travel in India. With this thought in mind, we have curated our special women-only travel initiative, Through Her Eyes that encourages female-centric tours and experiences to bring out the best of the country where even divinity is feminine.
How we make travel in India safe for women
We understand the importance of making travel safe for women in India. That is why; we have in place quality standards and robust systems to keep our standards consistent. Delivering quality is a guarantee from us and for that, we have in place a strong system that ensures consistency in delivery of services and the safety of women travellers.
- Health and Safety
- Strict Quality Control
- Drivers and guides training and panel
- Professional network
- Crisis management team
- Standard Operating Manual
- 24×7 Airport Duty Officer
- A central Control Office in Delhi
- Liability insurance and financial stability
Food Safety and Standards
We abide by the science-based safety standards for food articles and to manufacture, store, and distribute them set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) when designing our culinary experiences, be it a food walk or a fine dining experience.
In addition to the FSSAI norms, our dedicated in-house Quality Control team that is trained in international standards, independently monitors all suppliers regularly to ensure food safety standards are being adhered to.
How organised travel with us negates risk
Trained Guest Relations Executives perform the Meet and Greet services and all arrivals into the cities are pre-arranged.
There is also a 24×7 Duty Officer at the Delhi airport for contingencies.
Vehicles and transportation used is through our regular and trusted vendors who have signed a Standard Level Agreement with us, ensuring that vehicles are not older than 4 years and the drivers are properly trained and licensed. A committee additionally vets all the drivers.
Local airlines and airports are world class and in compliance with the strict guidelines by the concerned authorities.
We also vet the Guides and Accompanying Tour Directors and they form a part of our panel that is governed with strict guidelines.
Hotels selected in our tours are top of the line and following all global health and safety standards.
During the visits, sightseeing tours, and road journeys, accompanying guide and our staff travel with you.
We have an expansive network of company-owned ground network of local offices across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.
In Jaipur and Agra, the presence of Tourism Police at most prominent monuments makes it safe for women to travel in India.
Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy
In 2013, India enacted the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act that extends to all classes of employees and is mandatory in the service conditions of all personnel across the country. Today, the law mandates that all workplaces in India have to provide a safe and secure working environment, free from sexual harassment, for all women.
As an organisation, we believe in equal opportunity and promote a healthy and productive work setting free of prejudice, gender bias, and sexual misconduct by implementing a very strict prevention of sexual harassment policy. This also extends to all our associates and travel partners to ensure that your tour is safe and secure.
Nightlife and exploring on your own
In India, nightlife and nightclubs are available in metro cities only such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. Here are some measures that you can follow to enjoy the vibrant nightlife safely.
- Choose high-end nightclubs or those that are located in 5* hotels which are safe.
- There are security guards in each nightclub who look after the female guests.
- Stag (single) entry for men are not allowed in most nightclubs in India.
- Guest can request us for a car to go out.
- Avoid taking roadside cabs and being over-friendly with strangers.
- Guest should look after their belonging during shopping or at bar/nightclubs.
- Be mindful of your drinks and food and do not leave them unattended for long.
- Our staff (including female staff) and guide could accompany you for nightclubs, shopping and local bars, if required to make you feel comfortable.
Safety tips for women travelling alone or on organised tours without us
When travelling within a secure environment through a Tour Operator or in a pre-organised tour, trusted local guides and escorts accompany you for the entire duration of the trip. The risk is largely mitigated and extremely rarely, you may come across an untoward incident.
Solo women travellers on their own arrangements or backpack travellers to India’s major cities may face some opportunistic crime like anywhere else, but many problems can be avoided with a bit of common sense and an appropriate amount of caution.
While the media has incited fear among many travellers about whether it is safe for women to travel to India, we do not think feeling fearful is a good or healthy way to approach travel or life.
India is a traditional society in the throes of great social and economic change. The differences between rural and city life, educated and uneducated, privileged and under-privileged are enormous.
It is wise to play it safe when you are on your own and:
- Choose safe transport.
- Be secure in your accommodation by choosing hotels that offer global standards.
- Avoid unwanted attention. Dress modestly when touring the city.
- Refrain from overly friendly behaviour with unknown men.
- As in the west, avoid walking alone after dark or in isolated areas.
- Be culturally aware of social interactions with men.
- Look after your health.
- Do not accept or consume unpackaged food or beverages from strangers.
- Be cautious about relationship with strangers.
- Be aware of the law.
Note: Laws in India with regard to crimes against women are very strict. Please do not hesitate to seek legal or police action in case of any mishaps.
Important Telephone Numbers:
Police: 100
Women’s Helpline Number: 0091 1123317004