As a seasoned travel professional who has spent over two decades living in and exploring India, I have had the opportunity to stay in a wide range of accommodations across the country. From luxurious hotels to charming homestays, each place has left a unique impression on me and contributed to my overall travel experience. Most of my travels have been solo so I’m well versed in knowing that when it comes to solo female travel in India, choosing the right accommodation is crucial for ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay. Below are just some of my top picks for solo accommodations in India, including both popular destinations and off-the-beaten-path gems. I’ve never been a backpacker, and so never go budget, but I’ve spent a lot of time traveling solo and know, that with very few single room deals on offer, travelling solo tends to be more expensive than when traveling with a friend or partner. I spent a good couple of years working on a project to find India’s best, affordable boutique stays and homestays so that you don’t have to compromise on quality and authenticity but you also don’t have to spend a fortune!

Following that principle, I’ve mainly chosen homestays and small boutique hotels as these not only provide a personalised service, unique insight into the region and a homely atmosphere, they also tend to be more affordable.

*Please note that I only write about places that I’ve personally stayed in.

Popular Destinations:

Delhi – Mizpah Boutique Stay: Mizpah Boutique Stay holds a special place in my heart, as they came to my rescue when I had fractured my pelvis and needed a safe and comfortable place to recover. From personal experience, I can attest to the exceptional kindness, professionalism, and dedication of the staff, who consistently went above and beyond to ensure my well-being and comfort.

This charming boutique property, currently offering four exquisitely designed rooms, provides a personalized, comfortable, and stylish retreat for solo female travelers. Under the watchful eye of owner Caroline, who possesses an infectious passion for India, Mizpah Boutique Stay has created a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.The property’s prime location allows guests to easily explore the city’s top attractions while providing a secure and peaceful retreat. Safety and security are top priorities, ensuring that solo female travelers can fully immerse themselves in their travel experience with peace of mind.

Agra – Trident Hotel When visiting Agra to marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, the Trident Hotel is an excellent choice for solo female travelers. This comfortable property’s rooms may not be the largest in the city but they are comfortable with  top-notch amenities, and the  impeccable service is what one has come to expect from the Trident Brand. The hotel’s lush gardens create a serene atmosphere in the midst of this city which is, if I’m being honest, quite hectic and full of touts. With its emphasis on safety and security, the Trident Hotel ensures that solo female guests can relax and enjoy their stay without any worries.

Jaipur – Dera Mandawa For a truly immersive experience in Jaipur, I recommend staying at Dera Mandawa, a family-run property offering a welcoming, entertaining and safe environment, allowing solo female travelers to experience the authentic charm of true Rajasthani hospitality. Durga Singh ji (proprietor extraordinaire) is one of the most knowledgeable people I’ve come across in the last 25 years when it comes to the local culture and history (and food!) and his stories are fascinating and entertaining! It’s easy to forget about venturing out in favour of sitting and listening to him regale you with stories and legends from the region! In terms of hospitality, he, his family and their team go out of their way to ensure guests have a memorable stay and can point you in the right direction for places to visit across the city. From the delicious home-cooked meals to the beautifully decorated rooms and wonderful conversations, Dera Mandawa is a true gem in the heart of Jaipur.

 

Jodhpur – Ratan Vilas Ratan Vilas, a charming heritage hotel in Jodhpur, is an ideal choice for solo female travelers seeking a mix of comfort, history, and safety. For someone who has spent 25 years traveling solo and inspecting hotels, this place stood out in terms of their attention to detail, from handing out a card to all guests who check in with a contact number and map of the hotel, to their service and excellent value for money.  The property itself is a meticulously restored 1920s mansion with spacious, elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a refreshing swimming pool. The attentive staff is always on hand to assist guests and provide recommendations for exploring the city. With its secure environment and prime location, Ratan Vilas offers solo female travelers a comfortable and memorable base from which to discover the enchanting Blue City.

 

 

Udaipur – Neem Tree. I’ll be honest, there are a few properties I could have chosen in Udaipur for this, but I’ve settled on Neem Tree both due to it’s location, in the heart of the old city, making it easy to explore on foot and visit one of the many great sundowner points, where it’s easy to chat and meet people, or just enjoy the tranquillity of the moment, if that’s what you prefer.  And also, because Helena, the owner, is passionate about sharing her love for Udaipur and provides invaluable insights into the local area, what to see and where to dine out. For solo female travelers looking for a peaceful and intimate experience in Udaipur, Neem Tree is an excellent choice, known for its cozy rooms, and warm hospitality and where many guests also bond over the morning rooftop yoga sessions.

Cochin – Malabar House Residency.  One of the first, if not the first boutique hotel to open up in Fort Cochin, the foresight of Joerg Dreschel and his eye for style and design mean that this great little property has been a firm favourite of mine for 25 years! Its location, facing the parade ground and within easy walking distance of many of the main sights, galleries and cafes, makes it a great base for exploring the enchanting port city of Cochin. It is a beautifully and artfully restored heritage property, has elegant rooms a serene courtyard, small but great spa and the wine bar serving a wide variety of Indian wines for you to sample without wondering how you’ll make it back to your hotel!  Oh, and the friendly staff is always on hand to assist guests and provide recommendations for exploring the local attractions. With its emphasis on guest well-being and prime location, Malabar House Residency is an ideal choice for solo female travelers in Cochin.

Munnar – Windermere Estate Nestled in the stunning hills of Munnar, Windermere Estate is a perfect retreat for those seeking a tranquil and rejuvenating experience. A charming plantation stay offers cozy cottages, breath-taking views of the tea estates, and a range of activities to help guests unwind and connect with nature from tea tasting to trekking. This has been another firm favourite of mine for more than 20 years and one that I’ve sent countless travellers to and who have all returned raving about the place. Doc Simon is a gracious host, as is his son John and I know that they take great pride in providing a safe and comfortable  base from which to explore Munnar and its surrounds.

Off-Beat Destinations:

Often female solo travellers, feel safer in city locations, particularly when travelling to India. Off beat destinations are an unknown entity and are often shied away from. However, they are the most rewarding places to visit and, in my opinion, give a wonderful insight into the true heart of India, creating those WOW moments that are the memories that will last. I’ve come across, actively sought out, stayed in, and in many cases, returned to many of my favourite off beat destinations over the years. I’ll probably end up writing another post to cover more of these, but here’s a teaser for now:

Rohetgarh For solo female travelers looking to venture off the beaten path, Rohetgarh is a hidden gem in the heart of rural Rajasthan. This charming heritage hotel offers a unique opportunity to experience the authentic charm of village life, with its beautifully decorated rooms, delicious local cuisine, and warm hospitality. The owners are passionate about preserving the local culture and offer guests a range of activities, from village walks to cooking classes and, a bonus for horse lovers, it has one of the best Marwari Horse stables in the country. It’s also just a short drive from Jodhpur for those wishing to explore the impressive Mehrangarh Fort and old town. This is another one I’ve been returning to for over 22 years and, like a fine wine, it just gets better with age.

 

 

 

Kanha National Park – Salban Homestay. Whether wanting to go on safari, or if you simply have a love for nature and wildlife, Salban Homestay in Kanha National Park is an excellent choice. The only real ‘homestay,’ in the park, it is run by Sheema and Jhampan Mukerjee who gave up their city lives in favour of a life in the forests of central India, and who can blame them? It’s where I’d be if I could!  Theirs is an eco-friendly home, based on the local architecture of the region with rooms in the main house and two rooms now also available in separate cottages.  Sheema has a passion for all things nature and experimenting with food using local, seasonal produce and Jhampan has a passion for wildlife and also great knowledge on the local, traditional hooches from around India, which makes for interesting dinner conversation! Needless to say, delicious organic meals are produced and a range of activities are offered to help guests connect not only with Kanha National Park, but also the local people and the stunning natural surroundings. With its emphasis on hospitality, guest safety and sustainable tourism practices, Salban Homestay is an ideal base for solo female travelers looking to explore the wonders of Kanha National Park, which incidentally, is my favourite park of India.

 

For Ayurveda: Nattika Beach. For solo female travelers seeking authentic ayurvedic treatments, Nattika Beach in Kerala is a perfect choice. This hidden gem offers a pristine stretch of sandy beach, lush coconut groves, and a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The perfect requirements for completing a course of Ayurveda. Meditation, yoga, beach walks, healthy ayurvedic food prepared to your doshas and the resort’s friendly staff is always on hand to assist guests and provide recommendations for exploring the local area, from backwater cruises to visits to nearby temples and villages. With its stunning natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, Nattika Beach is an ideal destination for solo female travelers looking to unwind and escape the crowds. The only problem here is that it’s so good, you have to book months in advance to get a room! Also, a 10 day minimum stay to complete a whole treatment is mandatory. You’ll thank them in the long run!

Olaulim Backyards, Goa. Olaulim Backyards, a hidden gem nestled in the tranquil countryside of Goa, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the commercial coastal belt. This intimate homestay, comprising three beautifully crafted eco-friendly cottages, is situated on a sprawling three-acre property owned by Savio and Pirkko Fernandes, a charming Goan-Finnish couple who have poured their hearts into creating this idyllic retreat.

The cottages, built using sustainable materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, offer a comfortable and inviting space to unwind and recharge. Olaulim Backyards is committed to providing guests with an authentic and immersive experience of rural Goa, located in a quiet and unspoilt village far from the touristy areas.

Despite its laid-back atmosphere, Olaulim Backyards offers a wide range of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, swimming, cycling, fishing, and nature walks. One of the highlights is the chance to interact with the delightful array of pets!

Whether you’re a nature lover or simply someone looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday, Olaulim Backyards has something to offer. The Fernandes’ passion for sustainable tourism and their commitment to providing exceptional hospitality ensure that every guest leaves with cherished memories and a renewed sense of connection to the natural world.

Traveling solo as a female in India can be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience, and choosing the right accommodation is key to ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the tranquil hills of Munnar, the accommodations featured in this article offer a range of experiences tailored to the needs and preferences of solo female travelers.  Each property has been carefully selected based on factors such as location, safety and hospitality, ensuring that solo female travelers can book with confidence and peace of mind.

For travel advice, contact philippa@indianexperiences.com or www.indianexperiences.co.uk 

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