Uttarakhand is a land of serene beauty, a spiritual aura, and adventure activities. It is an ideal destination for solo women travelers who want to experience the beauty of nature. A solo trip to Uttarakhand can be an enriching experience for women as it offers a sense of independence, freedom, and self-discovery. However, planning can be overwhelming, especially for first-time travelers. In this blog, we will guide you through the essentials of planning a solo trip to Uttarakhand for women.
How To Reach Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. So, based on your budget and comfort, choose your best mode of travel.`
By Air
The nearest airport to Uttarakhand is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is located approximately 30 km from the city center and is well-connected to major cities in India. Airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India operate regular flights to Dehradun from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.
Once you reach the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to your destination. Taxis are available outside the airport, and the fare will depend on your destination. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to the city center. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation operates regular buses from the airport to Dehradun and other nearby cities.
By Rail
Uttarakhand has two major railway stations – Haridwar and Dehradun. Both railway stations are well-connected to major cities in India. Trains such as the Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani Express, and Dehradun Express operate regular services to these stations.
The Haridwar railway station is located approximately 20 km from Rishikesh, while the Dehradun railway station is located approximately 35 km from Mussoorie.
By Road
Uttarakhand is well-connected by road, and several buses and private taxis operate on the major routes. The state has a good network of highways and roads, making it easy to travel by road. If you’re traveling from Delhi, you can take NH 334 or NH 7 to reach Uttarakhand.
The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation operates regular bus services to major cities in the state. Buses are available from Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, and other major cities.
The Ultimate Uttarakhand Itinerary For Women
Arriving At Nainital
We kick off our Uttarakhand trip at one of the most popular cities in the state, Nainital. If you’re arriving in Uttarakhand via flight or train, you’ll need to reach Nainital from Dehradun. The most convenient way to reach Nainital from Dehradun is by bus. There are several government and private buses that operate on this route. The distance between Dehradun and Nainital is around 290 kilometers, and it takes approximately 7-8 hours to reach there by bus. You can also hire a car or a taxi to reach Nainital from Dehradun. The roads are well-maintained, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills on your way.
Whether you’re traveling by bus or car, it’s best to travel during the day. Once you arrive in Nainital, check in at your accommodation and get some much-needed rest. You can book your stay at hostels with female dorms, based on your budget. Here are some of the best hostels in Nainital –
- goSTOPS, Nainital: INR 549 approx for 1 night
- The Hosteller: INR 699 approx for 1 night
- HOTs Nainital: INR 996 approx for 1 night
- Zostel Nainital: INR 1,299 approx for 1 night
Exploring Nainital – The Jewel Of Kumaon
Nainital is known for its picturesque natural beauty, tranquil lakes, and verdant hills. The town is named after Naini Lake, which is the centerpiece of the city. One of the most popular activities here is boating on the Naini Lake. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding hills, and it’s the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon. You can also visit the famous Naina Devi Temple, which is located near the lake.
If you are looking for an adventurous activity, you can go trekking in Nainital. There are several adventurous trekking trails nearby such as the Snow View Trek and the Tiffin Top Trek.
Another must-visit place in Nainital is the Eco Cave Gardens. The gardens are a network of interconnected caves that are built in the shape of various animals. The caves are a popular attraction for children and adults alike, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.
Lastly, if you want to shop for souvenirs or gifts, Mall Road in Nainital is the place to be. The road is lined with shops selling handicrafts, clothes, and jewelry, among other things. You can also find several cafes and restaurants along the road where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the hills.
You can easily cover these places in a day, but if you wish to take it slow then two days in Nainital should be a good enough time.
Sightseeing In Mukteshwar
Just a short drive away from Nainital, about 50 kilometers is another popular town, Mukteshwar. It will take you about 2 hours to reach, depending on the traffic. It is known for its scenic beauty and serene surroundings. On reaching Mukteshwar, check in at your place of stay. Here are some hostels that you can check out:
- Zostel Mukteshwar: INR 699 approx for 1 night
- The Hosteller Mukteshwar: INR 723 approx for 1 night
- goSTOPS Mukteshwar: INR 449 approx for 1 night
These hostels offer female dorms and are centrally located, making it easy to find restaurants and major attractions.
One of the must-visit places here is the Mukteshwar Temple, which is built on top of a hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its ancient architecture and intricate carvings.
If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can go rock climbing or rappelling at the Mukteshwar Adventure Camp. The camp offers a range of adventure activities for all age groups and skill levels.
For nature lovers, the Mukteshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit. It is home to several species including leopards, deer, and Himalayan black bears. The sanctuary also has lots of trekking trails that take you through the forests.
If you want to enjoy some peace, you can visit the Bhalu Gaad Waterfall. The waterfall is located about 4 kilometers from Mukteshwar and is a great place to relax and unwind. The waterfall is surrounded by woodland and hills.
Mukteshwar To Almora
Located about 50 kilometers from Mukteshwar, Almora is a charming hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, ancient temples, and cultural heritage. The road from Mukteshwar to Almora will take about 2 hours and goes through lush green forests. You can stop along the way to take pictures or explore small towns and villages.
If you’re planning to make a halt at Almora, then you need a safe place to crash. Here are some of the top hostels in Almora with female dorms:
- goSTOPS Kesar Devi: INR 873 approx for 1 night
- The Hosteller Kesar Devi: INR 699 approx for 1 night
- HOTs Kesar Devi: INR 903 approx for 1 night
Exploring Almora
One of the must-visit places in Almora is the Kasar Devi Temple. It is dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi and is believed to be over 2,000 years old. As it is located on a hill, you can expect the sights from here to be incredible.
Next, you must check out the Bright End Corner. It’s a viewpoint located on a hill that is accessible via a short trek through the forests and it offers panoramic sights of sunrise and sunset.
If you are an adventure enthusiast, there’s a lot to do in Almora. Several trekking trails take you through the pine-filled mountains. You can also go camping at one of the many campsites in the area and enjoy a night under the stars.
Lastly, if you want to shop for souvenirs or local handicrafts, the Lala Bazaar in Almora is the place to be. The market is known for its woolen products, shawls, and other handicrafts made by local artisans.
Almora To Ranikhet
Ranikhet is located about 50 kilometers from Almora and can be reached via a scenic drive through the hills. The road from Almora to Ranikhet goes through an abundance of greenery and will last for around two hours. Make sure to take halts and click photographs or explore small towns and villages.
One of the must-visit places along the way is the Kosi River. The river is known for its clear blue waters and is a popular spot for picnics and water activities. Another popular attraction along the way is the Golu Devta Temple in Ghorakhal. It’s dedicated to Lord Golu, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of his devotees, and is located on a hill that offers awesome views of the surroundings.
Sightseeing In Ranikhet
You must try and visit the Chaubatia Gardens when in Ranikhet. Known for their apple orchards, you can buy fresh apples and other fruits from the gardens.
Another popular attraction in Ranikhet is the Jhula Devi Temple, located in a dense forest and can be reached via a short trek. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its bells that are said to fulfill wishes.
If you want to click some captivating pictures, the Majhkhali viewpoint is a must-visit. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Himalayan range. You can also go on a nature walk in the nearby forests and explore the flora and fauna of the region.
For animal and nature lovers, a visit to the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. The sanctuary is home to several trekking trails and species of birds, animals, and plants.
Ranikhet To Kasauni
Located about 60 kilometers from Ranikhet, Kausani is a beautiful hill station known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and the Kumaon hills. The road from Ranikhet to Kausani is a picturesque route that takes you through small towns and villages. The drive takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the stops you make along the way.
One of the must-visit places along the way is the Baijnath Temple. The temple is located on the banks of the Gomti River and is among the most important pilgrimage sites in the region. The temple complex dates back to the 13th century and is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
Experiencing The Best Of Kasauni
One of the main attractions in Kausani is the Kausani Tea Estate. It is spread over 208 hectares and is one of the largest tea estates in the region. You can take a tour of the tea factory, learn about the process of tea production, and also sample some of the delicious tea.
For nature lovers, the Rudradhari Falls and Caves are a must-visit place in Kausani. The falls are located about 12 kilometers from the town and are a popular spot for picnics and nature walks. The caves, located near the falls, are believed to be the meditation site of Lord Shiva and offer a spiritual experience to visitors. If you are interested in trekking, you have some great options like the Pinnath Trek and the Adi Kailash Trek in the nearby hills.
Kausani is also known for its scenic viewpoints like Baijnath Viewpoint, the Gwaldam Viewpoint, and the Someshwar Viewpoint. One of the most popular of them all is the Kausani Viewpoint, which is also known as the Gandhi Ashram Viewpoint.
And That’s A Wrap!
Each of these destinations can easily be covered in about one day, respectively. One thing to note is that Ranikhet and Kasauni are smaller towns as compared to Nainital, Almora, and Mukteshwar. So, you might not find hostels here. Instead, check for homestays and bed and breakfasts with good reviews from fellow women travelers.
This itinerary covers a major chunk of Uttarakhand. So, depending on your vacation days and budget, you can tweak or cut on some places as per your needs.
Solo Travel Tips For Women
Solo travel can be an incredibly rewarding experience for women, but it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. Here are some solo travel tips for women in India:
- Research your destination thoroughly before you go, including local customs, laws, and safety concerns.
- Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in more conservative regions of the state.
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded or poorly lit areas.
- Stay in safe and reputable accommodation, preferably with good reviews from other solo female travelers.
- Consider using a travel app or safety device that allows you to share your location with friends or family members.
- Be mindful of your belongings and keep important documents, such as your passport, in a secure place.
- Use reputable transportation services, such as taxis or ride-sharing apps, rather than hailing random vehicles on the street.
- Trust your instincts and be cautious when interacting with strangers. Don’t hesitate to walk away or seek help if you feel uncomfortable.
- Learn some basic self-defense techniques and carry pepper spray or another self-defense tool if you feel it’s necessary.
- Stay connected with friends and family back home and check in regularly to let them know you’re safe.
By taking these precautions and staying alert and aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy all that India has to offer without worry.
Summing Up
Uttarakhand is a stunning state with a lot to explore and is a haven for solo travelers. For female travelers, the state has a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing and is quite a safe state to travel in. So ladies, get your bags ready, book your tickets, and go experience the beauty of Uttarakhand for yourself!
FAQs
Is Uttarakhand Safe For A Solo Trip?
Yes, Uttarakhand is quite a safe state for solo trips, for both men and women. The locals in both the city areas and the outskirts are very hospitable and friendly.
Which Is The Safest Place For Women In Uttarakhand?
Nainital is one of the safest places for women in Uttarakhand.
Which Month Is The Best Time To Visit Uttarakhand?
The months from February to April and September to October are considered the best times to visit Uttarakhand. You can enjoy various adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, rafting, and more during this time.
How Many Days Are Enough For A Uttarakhand Trip?
Five to six days is a good enough time to cover major cities and destinations in Uttarakhand.
Which Months Have Snowfall In Uttarakhand?
The months from October to February are considered the winter months in Uttarakhand and the state sees heavy snowfall during this time.
Is Mussoorie Worth Visiting?
Mussoorie is called the ‘Queen of the Hills’ and is a picturesque town in Uttarakhand that certainly demands a visit.
How Much Would An Uttarakhand Trip Cost?
For a trip of 3 to 4 days, it would cost you approximately INR 12K to INR 15K, depending on your activities, accommodations, and mode of travel.
