Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Women & Solo Travellers
Women and solo travellers may encounter a few extra hurdles when visiting India - from cost (for those travelling alone)
to maintaining appropriate dress codes (women). As with anywhere else in the world, it pays to be prepared.
Women Travellers
Although Bollywood might suggest otherwise, India remains a largely conservative society. Female travellers should be
aware that their behaviour and attire choice are likely to be under constant scrutiny, particularly away from tourist centres.
Attention
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Be prepared to be stared at; it's something you'll simply have to live with so don't allow it to get the better of you.
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Refrain from returning male stares; this can be considered a come-on.
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Dark glasses, phones, electronic devices and books are useful for averting unwanted conversations.
Clothing
Avoiding culturally inappropriate clothing will help avert undesirable attention.
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Steer clear of sleeveless tops, shorts, miniskirts (ankle-length skirts are recommended) and anything else that's skimpy,
see-through or tight-fitting.
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Wearing Indian-style clothes is viewed favourably and can help deflect harassment.
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Draping a dupatta (long scarf) over T-shirts is another good way to avoid stares - it's also handy if you visit a shrine
that requires your head to be covered.
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Wearing a
salwar kameez
(traditional dresslike tunic and trousers) will help you blend in.
»
If you're not keen on wearing a
salwar kameez
, a smart alternative is a kurta (long shirt) worn over jeans or trousers.
»
Avoid going out in public wearing a choli (sari blouse) or a sari petticoat (which some foreign women mistake for a
skirt); it's like strutting around half-dressed.
»
Aside from at pools, many Indian women wear long shorts and a T-shirt when swimming in public view; it's wise to
wear a sarong from the beach to your hotel.
Health & Hygiene
Sanitary pads are widely available but tampons are usually restricted to pharmacies in big cities and tourist towns (even
then, the choice may be limited). Carry additional stocks for travel off the beaten track.
Sexual Harassment
Many female travellers have reported some form of sexual harassment while in India.
