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Home » Me

Me

Born, brought up & living in India and travelling the world.

One of the very few Indian solo women backpackers if there are any. If you dare to be one, let’s meet & rock.
SOLO is a big term for Indians, especially women. They do not step out alone and no, here, I do not mean work related outings of a few privileged ones. And if you add ‘backpacker‘ to that ‘Solo‘, it’s totally unheard of.

A few things to my credit includes my blog being featured in Asian Traveller, my articles have been used in a Japanese short movie and in a few schools in USA as course curriculum. My recipe for international backpackers is the first among the winning recipes and is now a part of Recipe guide of Hostelbookers.com.

I have been invited by Tourism boards/ministries of a few countries as their guest…. to start with it was from Malaysia to speak in their first International Travel Blogger’s conference and award at Kuala Lumpur.
I am the first Indian Travel Blogger to be invited by Tourism Bureau of Spain to Spain to cover a few of its Heritage cities.

I was recently featured as an intrepid woman traveller with daunting tales in the New Woman Magazine (page 167-168). Besides, I’ve also been mentioned, quoted, featured in various newspapers & magazines.

Very recently, I was interviewed on a live Travel Talk Radio show of USA.
I was one of the three jury members to select “Traveller of the year” for a famous travel portal.

I am also a bi-lingual travel writer, regularly writing for international magazines & websites.

Traveling is my passion and stress buster; my strength and my weakness too. My idea of traveling is counting number of memories, and not places.
Nothing excites me more than learning, enjoying and relishing life’s simple little pleasures about new places, people and cultures through this poetic travail.

I have travelled to 20+ countries (No, I won’t tell you the exact no., check it here. ) to nurture this passion; yet as eager and excited to travel as a toddler taking his first step. I believe in “सैर कर दुनिया की ग़ालिब, ज़िंदगानी फिर कहाँ ….”.

A good human being and a funny, freaky creature. These are just a few of the words that describe me.

The main reason for bragging writing here is to get in touch with like-minded wandering souls, and share information and interests. The more I write, the more this desire soars.

So if you like this site, do drop in with your comments (you’ll get free chilled beer).
Otherwise, you can sponsor my next trip. Choice is absolutely yours.
You may want to become a fan of my Travel page on Facebook displayed below or through other connections displayed on sidebar.

140 Comments »

Nishant said:

Hello Nisha! Thanx for visiting my blog! I am exploring your website and I must say that everywhere I want to go, I find you have already been there before me

# 18 April 2010 at 10:54 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Nishant,
Welcome here.

Waah ! Meri lines he chura lee aapne ?

Explore & keep coming.
BTW, as promised… the chilled beer is being couriered to you.

# 18 April 2010 at 11:06 AM

Jamais said:

Nisha,
I told this earlier also when we met.
I think you are the only Indian woman doing so. In whole my life as a traveller, I have not come across any other Indian woman who travelled like you.

warm regards,
Jamais

# 18 April 2010 at 4:15 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Jamais,
Glad to have you here again ! How’re you doing?

Well, I have been told this by many, many people on my recent trip abroad. But still can’t claim it myself. Ha ha…

# 18 April 2010 at 11:04 PM

Julia said:

Hello Nisha,

I just saw your post about travelling alone as an Indian woman. I have got another question: What is the safest way to travel in India for a Non-Indian woman? I was there by myself and really felt quite insecure because of the Indian men. A feeling I did not have in any other country of my oneyear-travel.

Would be great if you could write an answer to my mail-id.

Thanks
Julia

# 11 June 2010 at 8:53 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Hi Julia,
Thanks for your comment here.
I have replied to your mail-id. But I will also write a post here to answer such queries from readers.

Thanks once again.

# 16 June 2010 at 8:55 PM

Mariellen Ward said:

Hi Nisha,

Thanks so much for commenting on my blog! I travel solo while I am in India, though I don’t think of myself as a back-packer. I do have a backpack, but I don’t follow the backpacking routes, hangout at the backpacking haunts or agree to the philosophy — which seems to be to try and and spend as little money as possible in the country you are visiting and spend as little time as possible with the locals. It seems to be about drinking beer with other westerners in “exotic” locations.

I really love India and I try to learn as much as I can about the culture and spend as much time as possible with local people.

If other western women who want to travel solo in India contact you, please refer them to my blog – I have traveled by myself in India for about a year altogether – and I have never had any problems.

Hope to meet you on the road!

Mariellen
http://breathedreamgo.com/
@breathdreamgo

# 26 July 2010 at 5:26 PM

girlsguidetosurvival said:

It is so nice to know someone else is into high time travelling. I started independently at 19, before that with school sports teams at 11. I take a back pack with sleeping bag atop and a light suitcase so I do not know if I qualify the definition. I take less travelled routes but not totally hitch hiking. It will be interesting to read more about your trips.

Peace,

Desi Girl

# 27 July 2010 at 1:23 AM

Moin said:

Hi Nisha,

Just stumbled at this site and found is good. Great to hear about a female backpacker in India who is so active in blogging.

Thanks for the ‘Turkey’ post, I am a big fan of that country, will be visiting it soon (hopefully).

I love to be a backpacker myself (I love travelling) but too lazy else busy with my work

one suggestion: Pics posted in Picasa are good but would have been better if they were of higher resolution.

# 4 August 2010 at 3:47 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@DesiGirl,
Welcome to this site. Sorry for replying late, I wasn’t too well.

No, you don’t qualify as a backpacker but you are definitely a traveller.

Keep coming & let’s enjoy the journey together.

# 17 August 2010 at 1:22 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Moin,
Welcome. It’s great to have you here too.

Thanks for your comment. Travelling is a passion which can be achieved while busy with your work also.

Regarding pics in Picasa… I have purposely reduced the resolution before uploading them. But I think they are not too bad.

Thanks for your visit, keep coming.

# 17 August 2010 at 1:25 AM

Sowmya said:

Hey, so glad to see another Indian woman travelling alone…Am off in couple of weeks for 1 month solo US trip. Last year did my first trip alone to Thailand. Loved it, so attempting on larger scale now.

Lets catch up..we are a rare breed

# 25 August 2010 at 4:05 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Sowmya,
Wow ! So glad to know another creature of my breed !

Sure, lets do that.
And which places are you going in US?

# 25 August 2010 at 10:45 PM

Ashis said:

Dear Nishaji,
i was going through your message regarding single woman not allowed in charminar. then i came to know you are a solo woman traveler.
that made me curious to know about you. i went through your website and found taht you are such passionate person. and so inspiring.

i also love to travel, but not get much time but i also do travel without prior plans, but yes i do research about the place before i visit there. and i try innovative ways and short routes too like you. its adventure and i just want to ask you do you take pictures too or only write?would love to hear from you.
cheers

# 25 September 2010 at 8:14 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Ashis,
Welcome here.

Yes, I am a solo traveler. As per some travel communities, I am the first Indian woman backpacker.

I also try to keep some places in mind before venturing out but at times I have to take on the spot decisions too.

Yes, if you go through my site, in all the stories that I’ve written here, the pictures are clicked by me including some self photos like this one.

Keep coming here and enjoy the journey.
Keep coming here and enjoy the journey.

# 25 September 2010 at 8:47 PM

Girija said:

Hi stumbled upon your blog….. I am liking it… More than that I am so happy to see SOLO woman traveler… amazing.. You have travelled so many places!!!!!…. Impressed….I do travel alone … Though am not an extensive traveler as you are ( but I wish to be )
I am an impulsive traveler. Experience of travelling alone and the reaction of the people, its own risk are all a different world of travelling…

Which part of the world you live ?
I will keep visiting your blog

TC
Girija

# 2 October 2010 at 7:40 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Girija,
Welcome to my site.

I have travelled to many places ?? I want to add a few more to it.

I agree, solo travelling gives a different high & feel. It has it’s own pros & cons.

Heh.. Have you not read it properly ? I am from your world.

Keep coming and share your views here.

# 3 October 2010 at 10:16 PM

Atul said:

“…and I spend my own money to nurture this passion”. – May I ask what/where is the source of this never-ending flow of money? I will love to quit my job and go on a world tour, but that needs money, which I earn from my 8-to-5 job. I travel, but do not blog. However, I take photos and post them here: http://atulks.myphotoalbum.com.

# 11 November 2010 at 1:35 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Atul,
Welcome to my site.

Who says it’s never ending flow?
I do sulk at times when I do not have funds to travel and jump with joy if someone finances my trip. But since I am a backpacker, I need lesser amount of money to pursue this passion.

Oh, I have done that 8-to-5 thing too. Have you heard of sabbatical or working from home ?

BTW, saw your wonderful photos. How often do you travel ?

Now that you’ve seen this site, Atul, I guess you’ll be a regular here?

# 11 November 2010 at 11:37 PM

Siddhartha Joshi said:

You have an awesome website and an even more enviable list of already-done destinations!!! I must say am impressed, but more than that I am pure jealous

Keep traveling and keep sharing, its great to read your travelogues!

# 6 December 2010 at 11:21 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Siddhartha,
Welcome to my site.

Thank you very much for your encouraging words. And jealous ?
Tsk tsk….

Even I am suffering from this dreaded word.

There are so many out there who have done more than me but I am in no hurry. I go at my own pace.

Thanks for travelling to this site, tag along… we’ll see the world together.

# 6 December 2010 at 5:56 PM

Siddhartha Joshi said:

I am already on, you are an inspiration

# 6 December 2010 at 6:45 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Siddhartha,
I am humbled.

# 8 December 2010 at 1:30 AM

Sarjana Agrawal said:

Hey Nisha!
Wish i could embark the unknown just like you! Thats what makes me keep visiting ur page so often.You capture the essence of the place so beautifully!
My best wishes for the contest n ur future adventures! Keep up the good work!

# 14 December 2010 at 2:19 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Sarjana,
I welcome you here.

And thank you very much. Encouraging words coming from unknown people is what keeps me going.

Thanks & keep coming.

# 19 December 2010 at 9:33 AM

SiD... said:

Just one question.. where do you work/how do you earn to have both the moolah and the time to travel??

# 21 December 2010 at 9:21 AM

Nisha (author) said:

SiD,
Welcome to my den.

I am a backpacker and if you go thru my posts, you’ll come to know how I travel. It does not really need a king’s treasure to travel. I go for budgeted accommodation, many a times for shared bathrooms, I eat street food and use local transport.

That’s my secret.

# 30 December 2010 at 7:19 AM

Amar said:

@SID…

HI offers you nice rooms/dorms almost anywhere.. just in case one needs to save on lodging without cutting on experience

PS. yhaindia.org if you already didn’t know

# 29 January 2011 at 12:20 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Amar,
Not only YHA, there are many budget guest houses in most part of this world. You need to be a little patient in your search.

Have you read about the cheapest room I ever stayed in?
http://www.lemonicks.com/Travel/2010/12/07/cheapest-room-i-ever-stayed-in/

# 29 January 2011 at 12:46 PM

Amar said:

Yeah..read that post now.. and you are right about patience. But it becomes an issue when you reach somewhere tired and have one day for travel then get back to work… Searching is not an optimal solution in that case.

And, I never doubt that budget is hardly an issue when it comes to travelling but the “work/time” bit is my curiosity too, besides SID’s
How do you manage, that too in and out of India?

# 29 January 2011 at 2:20 PM

Snow Leopard said:

Intriguing introduction. A backpacker. And a solo one. You sound fun and adventurous. I like.
“My idea of traveling is counting number of memories, and not places.” liked this quote. Mind if I use it?

And now where is my free beer?

# 1 February 2011 at 11:17 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Amar:

Just one day of travelling to some place & then getting back to work will definitely need some search prior to travel.

If you think that budget is not an issue for travel then you are wrong. Finance & time, are 2 big deciding factors about where all you can go, stay and for how long.

Well, how do I manage time?
I do not have a 9 to 6 job, so I guess time management is a bit easy for me.

# 1 February 2011 at 11:55 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Snow Leopard:
Nice name.
Welcome here to my site and thank you.

Thanks for liking the quote.
Well, as long as you give credit to me by linking back to my site, you can use this quote.
I think that’s fair enough. No?

I have couriered the free beer to you. Kindly wait for a few days.

Keep coming…. not for beer though.

# 1 February 2011 at 11:58 PM

Amar said:

Of course they, moolah and time, are two most important ones but not to the extent that finance may dictate the plans. Generally time does, in a general sense and wish/will. But, lets suppose, now if you talk about the fact that I haven’t travelled abroad then of course money is the only reason, but I don’t count that. I’ve just started, I’ve a lot of time ahead ..waiting for me(time and tide byword is a fallacy).. moolah will come along..

Yup your blogs are delievered to Liferea and I will find you on Twitter and Facebook, you can follow back too… but I don’t blog as of yet.

Congratulations for not having a 9-6 routine. But I like mine too

I’m planning for a solo(or with a pal) Euro trip in some 1+ years.. already started the savings..but no plans for how yet.. I may seek some gyaan then or so

# 2 February 2011 at 10:33 AM

Teej said:

Hey,… this is an awesome blog.. i’m still exploring it.. but i like what i’ve read till now.. cheers!!

# 11 February 2011 at 11:11 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Teej,

Thank you very much. You are welcome here.

And keep reading, keep coming and let’s travel together !

# 11 February 2011 at 11:53 AM

Niranjan said:

Hi Nisha,
You have a lovely travel blog and love your spirit of Solo traveling. Keep traveling.
waiting for that chilled beer…!!

# 2 March 2011 at 1:33 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Niranjan:
Welcome to my den and thank you very much.

Chilled beer? I have ordered it today itself to be delivered to you. Should reach you soon.

# 3 March 2011 at 3:09 AM

Indian Homemaker said:

Wow!!! I haven’t traveled like you, but I am mighty impressed. I guess you truly are ‘that rare breed from India’. Keep it up, best wishes.

# 3 March 2011 at 3:03 PM

Ashok Bathija said:

Dear Nisha,

I came across your blog accidentally…just gone thru a few pages and absolutely loving it.

Having worked for an international airline in Mumbai meant rebated tickets…which meant more money in the pocket to spend on sight-seeing.

I usually try and research the places I would like to visit, opt for public transport & modest accommodation – guest houses/B&B and try out street food.

I look forward to your tips on affordable travel & great places to stay while visiting in India or abroad.

Thanks to my uncle, I had a chance to visit Chinmaya Vibhooti in Kolwan, 4hrs from Mumbai. It is a great place to visit…please check out a clip i made based on the photos taken during my visit on youtube..
Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UbQbmEbkdU

I am kind of semi-retired (from work not life) and love to volunteer & explore nature; read a lot on organic farming, container gardening….I will be visiting Sidhibari, Himachal pradesh this month and will try write a travel blog.
Would love to hear from you.

Thanks for the wonderful blog

# 6 March 2011 at 10:53 AM

Nisha (author) said:

@IHM,
Welcome here.
And thank you very much.

@Ashok Bathija,
I am glad that you came here.
It seems you travel like me trying out street food & local transport. I try to give tips from my experiences & knowledge.

I checked your video, it is good to know about other places.

All the best for your Himachal trip, would like to hear about it. Do keep in touch.

And thank you very much for visiting.

# 15 March 2011 at 9:37 PM

Rosemary said:

Hi Nisha,

It is so nice to know that I am not one of the rare breeds from Asia. I am a Chinese girl from Singapore and I find myself often the only Asian female in a youth hostel/guesthouse when I am traveling. I have backpacked a few times to Europe (Netherlands, UK, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Vatican City, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, France), Asia (Taiwan with my sister, Bangkok and Phuket solo, Malaysia – stayed there for a year to study, Tioman and Redang Island and many other Malaysian places. Planning to go to Beijing and Shanghai this July solo! Should be fun! I have been to other parts of the world too but I went with my family and in free and easy packages. I have always wanted to backpack in India but I wonder if it is safe for a Chinese girl like me to travel solo?

# 13 April 2011 at 8:01 PM

Jules said:

Thanks for stopping by my little corner of blogland and letting me know you’re here! I’ll enjoy seeing where you’ve been too. I love travel, but I don’t get to do it as often as you, as I’m a single mom and arranging a getaway is difficult. But that just makes me value it more when I can.

# 28 April 2011 at 11:24 PM

umesh derebail said:

Nice to know regarding your profile Nisha…..been blogging from Sept 2007 on blogspot and guess what is the title of my blogspot….http://www.indiabackpacker.blogspot.com/

Great to know you are a globe trotter…..with backpacking too….in case you drop in at Blore……we can exchange notes Lolz good luck

# 6 May 2011 at 3:07 PM

Arundhati said:

Hi Nisha – Do you have any tips as a solo female backpacker? Things to be careful about, places to avoid? Or would you say most places are fine ?

# 15 May 2011 at 11:01 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Rosemary,
Nice to meet you though I am acknowledging it quite late here.
Wow ! You’ve been places ! How do you manage so much of travel?

Yes, you can backpack in India. Just that, you got to be more careful & alert. I have done many solo trips in my own country. And it wasn’t as easy as it was abroad. Being in a multi-lingual, multi-cultural country adds to our woes.

There are certain rules to follow as a female solo traveller. Drop me a mail when you intend to do it.

# 23 May 2011 at 4:15 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Jules,
You are officially welcome here.

Being a single mom is a tough task and I am sure you are managing it well.

@Umesh,
Thanks a lot.
Yeah, We can meet when I am in your city and exchange notes as well.

# 23 May 2011 at 4:18 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Arundhati,
Yes, ofcourse !
I will not say most places are fine. There are places and time one, as a solo female backpacker, should avoid.

I will try to write a post one of these days on it.

# 23 May 2011 at 4:22 PM

Bhavika said:

Hey Nisha,

Have filled up the contact form regarding an interview for our magazine. Hope to hear from you soon!

Thanks
Bhavika

# 28 May 2011 at 1:04 PM

Milliver's Travels said:

Delightful bio and good on ya for breaking the mold. Can’t wait to look around your site. It looks juicy!

# 29 May 2011 at 10:14 PM

limenlemons said:

Hey! Ok this question may sound strange since I am not quite sure how to frame it…but are you the same blog owner from cuckoocosmos?

# 3 June 2011 at 3:50 PM

Rosemary said:

Hi Nisha,

I work for a while, save up and travel. I love to travel but I hate flying. If I had the choice I would take the cruise ship and train to travel around the world!

I just got back from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to visit some old friends and it was pretty nice shopping and eating.

Actually my younger sister is married to a North Indian guy and they stay in Pune, but we have never been close as children and now as adults. My parents went to India twice, once for her wedding and to send her off this March. I didn’t go at all as she didn’t welcome me there. It would have been nice if I have my sister and bro-in-law to show me around in India but she did warn me to keep away from her if I ever step into India. Sigh.

I can’t wait to visit China next month! In China, they speak different dialects too so hopefully they can understand my Mandarin!

I will make it to India either next year or the year after the next for sure. Will definitely drop u a mail when I plan my trip. Thanks and have a nice day!

# 4 June 2011 at 1:10 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Milliver,
Thank you and do have a look.

@limenlemons,
No !
But you can still enjoy this site.

# 22 June 2011 at 11:46 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Rosemary,
That’s very sad. I admire you for handling such a delicate issue diligently.

Looking forward to your mail.

# 23 June 2011 at 12:24 AM

Sreelal said:

Hi Nisha,

jst came across ur blog… loved your intro… going to read the rest..

so +1 to ur beer count

# 23 June 2011 at 12:50 AM

Nisha (author) said:

@Sreelal,
I welcome you here.

Do have a look and give your valuable inputs.
And yes, free chilled beer is on your way !

# 23 June 2011 at 12:57 AM

anoothi said:

hi
my name is anoothi and i came across this frm a known person of urs e in sangkara .i m alone hr in mumbai and a wld love to travel just like u .plz i want ur contact so that i ca also share the same route u r going .my no. is 90******** and id is ******@gmail.com. plz feel free to contact anytime preferably in evening and lets meet up one day.
regards

anoothi

# 23 June 2011 at 9:19 AM

Nisha (author) said:

@Anoothi,
Glad to know that you want to travel solo.
Well, if you share the same route as mine, how would it be a solo then?

I have removed your tel no & mail-id while moderating this comment. Pls note, it is a site on internet which anyone can see. It is not advisable to display your personal details here.

# 23 June 2011 at 11:03 AM

Usha said:

Great Site!

Never realised the number of Indian female backpackers were on the low end of the scale. haha!

Enjoyed exploring your travels.

Cheers

# 23 June 2011 at 11:04 AM

Nisha (author) said:

@Usha,
I welcome you here.
Thank you. Yes, they are a rare breed (Born, brought up & living in India). I would definitely love to meet them.

Usha, I hope to see you here more often.

I tried to visit your site but it is open to invited readers only.

# 23 June 2011 at 11:14 AM

Usha said:

Hey there Nisha!

It was undergoing a bit of “construction” and I forgot to switch it back to public mode. lol.

Thanks for letting me know else I would have never realized. lol.

Cheers

# 23 June 2011 at 11:57 AM

Nisha (author) said:

@Usha,
Ha Ha…
Good that you realized.

# 24 June 2011 at 3:49 PM

JATDEVTA SANDEEP PANWAR said:

आपके बारे में जानकर अच्छा लगा।

# 26 June 2011 at 9:58 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@JATDEVTA SANDEEP,
Dhanyawaad.

# 3 July 2011 at 12:53 AM

Aathila said:

Nisha, thanks for commenting on my travel map… you are right, you have traveled much more but somehow my map looks bigger . On another note, I am glad to connect with a fellow Indian woman backpacker… I was pretty sure I was the only one so it’s fantastic to meet another one of us!! Wish you many more safe and adventurous travels!!

# 27 July 2011 at 12:26 PM

gautami said:

hey,

i am truly inspired by you. female solo traveller are considered crazy in India. why is it so unsecure to travel in so called free country. I felt terrible when i put across the thought of travelling alone.recently read many blogs on female travellers. but sometimes u cant wait for a group and the worst guided tours to see new places.got to venture out on your own.wish me luck.give me some tips to calm my nerves

# 29 July 2011 at 7:01 PM

Shilpi Mahajan said:

Hello Nisha, I intend to travel with my 5 year daughter starting to explore India. I hope to bump into you this is a perfect age for her to start exploring the world!

# 4 August 2011 at 6:10 PM

Nisha said:

@Aathila,
Welcome here.
Glad to meet you too. Like you, I was also pretty sure but I still maintain I am the only one of my kind. (born, brought up & lived in India most of my life).

The conditions & outlook of people is very different here. Can not be compared with someone who has lived abroad.

# 5 August 2011 at 10:38 AM

Nisha said:

@Gautami,
Yes, I agree. solo female traveller who is on her own exploring the places is unheard of in this country. I am not talking about commuting between two cities where at each end there are people to escort you.

I am sure, if you’ve set your heart & mind to go solo, you’ll achieve it.

All the best.

# 5 August 2011 at 10:39 AM

Nisha said:

@Shilpi,
Welcome here.
And kudos for taking your daughter along for your travel.

Are you going to visit the familiar cities or some new ones? You might have to prepare your daughter for chaotic India before she sets foot here.

And I’ll be glad to bump into you.

# 5 August 2011 at 10:40 AM

Dheeraj Sharma said:

Well, there is some real gyan present on your blog Nisha. Since yesterday I am trying to traverse through the content and you have some loads of stuff. A solo female backpacker and Indian doesn’t go hand in hand but I guess things are changing big time now. Perhaps, in the last month only I came to know third one of this rarest breed. I guess I shall consider myself lucky to follow such travel stories …

Being a traveler myself and known to the hardships of travel as well, I really appreciate your courage + spirit to travel solo in India.

Hard luck with your Uttarakhand trip but may be a blessing in disguise as the recent landslides could have left you guys stranded too.

Keep up the great work you putting into this blog. Surely, something to watch and follow overtime.

# 12 August 2011 at 4:10 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Dheeraj,
Welcome here. Thanks for your encouraging words.
Glad to meet you too.

Yes, Uttarakhand trip disappointed me but it’ll be definitely done sometime.

# 12 August 2011 at 10:32 PM

Archana said:

Nisha,
Just happened to visit your blog and found it very fascinating. I could identify with many of your observations and remembered being in similar situations. Also appreciate your passion and strength to do what you enjoy. Wish more women in India enjoyed that freedom.
Archana

# 27 August 2011 at 8:19 AM

Nisha (author) said:

@Archana,
Welcome here.
I am glad that you could identify yourself with me.

Yes, it’s tough for Indian women and I am fortunate to have a very supportive husband.

Keep coming.

# 28 August 2011 at 2:05 AM

Kusum said:

Hi Nisha,

I bumped into your blog while browsing for info on Nighoj Kund. You have a very nice blog and useful info. I travel solo too. Nice to meet you over the blog

Have great trips!

# 2 September 2011 at 2:34 PM

Nisha said:

@Kusum,

Thanks for your kind words.
Nice to meet you too.

# 2 September 2011 at 10:36 PM

Debra Kolkka said:

Good on you for having the courage to travel alone. I like to travel alone as well, but this is no such a big deal as I live in a culture where this is not unusual. I have been to the wedding of friends in Bangalore where we spent a week. We then went on to Mysore, the home of the groom and then had a week in Goa. I loved it! I would love to discover more of India. Kerala is a place I really want to go to.

# 11 September 2011 at 3:03 AM

Julia Dutta said:

Hi Nisha,
Very interesting woman! Would love to know you better. I like courageous women like you, since I have been thinking of doing solo for a long time, but never really got down to doing a really big one.

Julia Dutta

# 12 September 2011 at 2:22 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Hi Debra,
Thanks for your comment, keep them coming.
Yes, that’s the point I wanted to say. In India, you hardly sees any.

Come to India again, I will take you around.

# 17 September 2011 at 1:26 PM

Nisha (author) said:

Julia,
Thank you.
Tell me, what do you want to know. If you read this space regularly, you’d come to know more about me.

Do it, you’ll enjoy.
It’ll be fun to see more females doing solo.

And keep coming here.

# 17 September 2011 at 1:29 PM

Sudha said:

Just stumbled upon your site. Loved it. I’m embarking on my first solo trip next month . It’s all planned out, reservations made, etc.. I am excited and apprehensive at the same time. Your blog sure is an inspiration.

# 23 September 2011 at 10:11 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Sudha,
Welcome.

Where all you are planning to go? Which country/countries?

All the best for your travel. Looking forward to your stories.

Just a note about me. I generally do not plan/book anything except my to & fro tickets. Rest all is on the fly.

# 24 September 2011 at 12:37 AM

Sudha said:

I am travelling in India–Benares, Sarnath, Lucknow, Agra and Delhi. Only my tickets and hotel bookings are done. The rest is to go with the flow–Ganga, Gomti or Yamuna the case may be.

# 24 September 2011 at 11:43 AM

bb said:

my blog has moved to
http://www.beingbindas.wordpress.com
see you there soon!

# 25 September 2011 at 6:24 PM

Patsy said:

Hi Nisha,
I’m pleasantly surprised to find your site. I’m an Indian female too and enjoy travel but most of my solo travels have been outside India. I’ve always been a little paranoid about travelling alone in India and have decided to finally give it a shot. I want to visit Kerala and would like to hear your suggestions and recommended places to visit as a single traveler.

# 25 September 2011 at 10:00 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Sudha,
Great! I wish I could join you.

@BB,
Yes, I have read your post about shifting & already made changes on my reader.
Thanks.

# 25 September 2011 at 10:29 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Patsy,
You are welcome here.
Yes, travelling alone in India is not that safe compared to other countries.

Hmmm…
Kerala is somewhat more safer. Tourism industry flourishing there. How long do you intend to stay there?

# 30 September 2011 at 3:13 PM

Patsy said:

Hi Nisha,
I live in South Karnataka and Kerala is just next door so I’m looking for ideas for multiple short trip 3-4 days max.

# 4 October 2011 at 10:09 AM

Nisha said:

@Patsy,
That would be good to start with.

# 12 October 2011 at 4:37 PM

LadyInRead said:

Hi Nisha
Thanks for your comments on my blog.. I have to update my book shelf on shelfari though (it is seriously deprived of the books read and TBR).
Your blog is amazing! Travel is one other thing I love, and glad to have found this resource..

# 12 October 2011 at 9:02 PM

Nisha said:

@LadyInRead,
Welcome.
Do update your bookshelf and let’s travel places on this blog.

# 13 October 2011 at 11:03 AM

Praveen said:

hi Nisha,
thanks for stopping by my blog and for your comment!!
Its indeed a rare breed Nisha.. and I so hope the count keeps growing in India.. its such a beautiful experience !

Happy tramping!

# 29 October 2011 at 10:14 AM

Nisha said:

@Praveen,
Welcome here and thank you.
Keep coming.

# 29 October 2011 at 10:26 AM

Hrishi said:

Liked the blog. I guess you like visiting offbeat places.
Try Ahupe ghat near Pune if stay there, You might like it. So many offbeat places to visit and so little time!

# 8 November 2011 at 7:12 PM

Korak said:

Hi,

Stumbled upon your website while doing a few travel related searches.

It is so nice to see that you have lived your passion. For lesser mortals like us,struck in the mundane life of the urban jungle, I find your blogs breathe a fresh air of life.

I do travel (not as frequently as you, off course and not a backpacker definitely) and enjoy lesser known destinations.

Would add you on facebook for future updates from your end

Korak
Kolkata

# 10 November 2011 at 1:21 PM

Puru said:

Your latest fan reporting maam. You are inspiring !

# 17 November 2011 at 3:25 AM

Vaibhav Agarwal said:

Subject- My eagerness to have a trip with you…
Hi,

I will sound weird but I have to say it, I am not a solo women backpacker, but a solo boy backpacker who want to have a trip with you anywhere in this mysterious country. Same like you I travel a lot, alone and unprepared mostly,with very low budgets.My recent trip was to Gamukh glacier-origin of river Ganges.As i am still a Engineering final year student, can’t afford a trip outside India, but i try my guts anywhere and everywhere within Indian boundaries.
I also maintain a blog.
not a travel blog yet.
It will be great if I ever get a chance to polish my traveling skills with you, in d minimum budget,…If you come to Delhi let me know, will be pleased to meet you and hear your experiences in person.

# 23 November 2011 at 11:24 AM

Nisha said:

@Hrishi,
Welcome here.
Yes, I like offbeat places as well.
I live in Mumbai, haven’t heard of this place but would like to visit. Do you have some info on it?

# 25 November 2011 at 3:25 PM

Nisha said:

@Korak,
Thank you very much for kind and encouraging words.
I have lived that life too, it’s a question of what ultimately one wants from his/her life and taking risk for that.

Hmmm…. My personal account on Facebook is personal.

I have a travel page on Facebook where I take my readers along on my journeys and some more news on travel. Have you become a fan yet? If not, pls do so.

# 25 November 2011 at 3:27 PM

Nisha said:

@Puru,
Thank you veru much.

I received your mail regarding the widget but at present I am too occupied to even think of replying to it. Give me some time.

# 25 November 2011 at 3:27 PM

Nisha said:

@Vaibhav,
Thank you very much. I am glad to meet a solo traveller here. It would be great to see you start a travel blog too.
Budget travelling starts when you literally don’t have a budget.

And you have already started in your best time.
I keep coming to Delhi and have many people to meet as well. So, cross your fingers.

# 25 November 2011 at 3:46 PM

Ankit kumar Jha said:

Hi,I arrived at your travel blog when serarching for inspiration from Indian Travelers.
I hereby like to give you kudos for such wonderful posts. I am currently doing M.B.A & Travel bug bite me 12 months back. Since that day I like to Quit everything & Start what I like to do always. Will you suggest a way that works for me.

# 28 November 2011 at 7:55 PM

Prateek said:

Hey Nisha,

Just came across this site while surfing on net for freaking holidays!
What brought me here was ur article on The Garden of five senses.
Well i must admit you did a great job..telling the true condition of that so called exotic park..
Just to tell u, if u are interested..i have a keen interest in travelling and that too alone..without any plans.. just pack my bag and go on…
I felt u r also of the same kind..
By the way i am planning to go to Kashmir during Christmas and new year..i have not been there..and its gonna be a hell of excitement i guess..
I would like to have your suggestions, it would be nice if u could mail me..i would love to keep in touch!!!

Cheers

# 1 December 2011 at 2:59 AM

Nisha said:

@Ankit,
Thank you very much for your kind words.

First, complete your MBA and then look for a job in travel or tourism industry.

But keep up your passion for travel. Whether you get any job to travel or not, your passion will take you places.

And keep coming here to see where I am off to next.

# 4 December 2011 at 12:32 AM

Nisha said:

@Prateek,
Welcome here and I hope you’ll continue to come here.

Glad to meet a traveller like me.

Kashmir is a great place to go during winters. What is your plan? Do some skiing or just enjoy the white beauty?

Do you know once when I was missing snow, I especially went to Manali region in peak winter just to feel snow on my face.

# 4 December 2011 at 12:46 AM

vaibhav said:

@Nisha
Thanks for being so generous….hope to meet you in delhi someday…

# 4 December 2011 at 3:42 AM

Nisha said:

@Vaibhav,

# 4 December 2011 at 9:56 AM

chirag sharma said:

hello,
I read your blog, its really good, liked your impassioned personality. I am too found of exploring different places but I am just a beginner from Delhi. I am exploring my city first.
your view on garden of 5 senses is exactly the same as I felt.
it is good when woman like you shows her mettle in such an excellent manner.

# 21 January 2012 at 9:20 AM

Nisha said:

Just stumbled at this site and found it good. Great to hear about a female backpacker in India who is so active in blogging.

I was searching for a weekend gateway near delhi to celebrate my anniversay..

keep blogging..
keep exploring..

# 27 January 2012 at 8:22 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Chirag,
Thank you very much for your kind words.
It is the first step (beginning) that is always difficult. Once started, I am sure you won’t look behind.
There is so much to see & learn from this world. Do you know at present I am volunteering in Cambodia? It is an experience in itself.

Thanks again for coming here. I hope you’ll enjoy what I share here. Please check my Facebook page also.

# 28 January 2012 at 1:14 PM

Nisha (author) said:

@Nisha,
Hello namesake.

Thank you very much for your kind words. Glad that you stumbled upon my site.

When is your anniversary? And what kind of place are you looking for? There are many places near Delhi.

Thanks again for coming here. I hope you’ll enjoy what I share here.

# 28 January 2012 at 1:18 PM

Shanky said:

Hi Nisha,

First surprise – you backpack

Second – You are from India and a female

Third – You have volunteered and you have a tagline that is the same as my philosophy

Wanted to say hi and wanted to know some tips about how to backpack solo and not worry about cost etc. Kindly excuse if you think this is spam. And Thanks for liking my post which led me to have a look at your site.

Shankar/Shanky

# 1 March 2012 at 12:22 PM

Sumitra said:

You are my hero!

# 8 March 2012 at 6:33 PM

Marisol said:

Hi Nisha,
I just came across your blog. I’m an aspiring travel blogger and I’m looking around the web for travel blog inspiration and yours really sticks out. kudos to you for your courage to defy cultural confirmity and go ahead to travel solo. I also love your fortrighness about India’s social issues. Most people from India I’ve met are not comfortable talking about the issues you have addressed in this post. Congratulations on your great post and have more wonderful travels ahead.

Marisol

# 13 March 2012 at 8:20 AM

Venkat Ganesh said:

Indian? Yes
Woman? Yes
Backpacking the world? Yes
Solo? Yes

Whoa! Its great to discover your site Nisha! Respect is all I can say. Good luck on your travels!

Cheers
Venky

# 27 March 2012 at 5:59 PM

MJ said:

Hi Nisha,

I just looooooove to travel. My most favourite dream is to imagine unknown places and me visiting them. Every night I fall asleep dreaming the same dream and it gives me such a peace of mind.

But as you mentioned, I am one among the Indian women who get a chance to travel only for work. But apart from this also I would like to go around the world alone, see new places(I don’t care good or bad), have new experiences(again I don’t care good or bad) and meet new people.

Just wondering, how do you do it? I mean if you don’t mind, what domain of work are you in and how not to worry about travel costs etc?

Looking forward to hear from you.

Thanks
MJ

# 7 May 2012 at 5:25 PM

Kushal said:

Hi………………………….

Interesting. I also like to travel a lot. But I travel in my dreams. I visit google earth, look pictures on net of different places.There are lots of way by which you can travel from home, from your place with your mind and soul. You can watch videos of different places etc.. I am also alone. Lone Travelers see the world differently. Is it like people come and go in your life. But you remain as you are and you don’t have any effect of people coming and going from your life. I think you travel, get experiences which is more practical approach. I do travelling in my within. Results are same in both the cases.. Don’t you think..?

# 10 June 2012 at 11:23 AM

Kushal said:

Hello Maam again..

Jungle theme is not displaying any content. Plz add something about different forests places to visit

# 10 June 2012 at 11:40 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Hi Kushal,
Welcome here.
Well, travelling for me has a different perception.
I can not travel like you.

And I don’t agree with you that the results are same. Watching pictures, videos can not be compared with going to a place in person. The fresh air, the caressing of snowflakes on your face, the splash of water while cruising, and so on…

No, it is not the same at all.

# 10 June 2012 at 11:59 AM

Nisha (author) said:

Kushal,
Yes, there is nothing as of date since I’ve not written anything.

Thanks for reminding. Will do so soon
Or do you have a story on it? Pls let me know.

# 10 June 2012 at 12:01 PM

Deeps said:

WOW, you’ve travelled quite a bit, Nisha and its so so impressive! Oh I love to travel and it feels great to have stumbled upon a travel blog which has so much to offer! Nice to meet you

Keep travelling and keep sharing your experiences. Bon voyage!

# 21 June 2012 at 8:21 PM

Love said:

Heya, thnks fr commenting on my tattoo. Hats off to a traveler like you.

# 14 July 2012 at 6:59 PM

Ravi said:

I have redirected my blog wander from your comment on my blog about ‘toilets’. lol
Having come here, I must say, what a beautiful and versatile travel blog you have.It is vibrant and offers so much variety, branching out to absorb local key points.
Key on, will be following this post with even more curiosity.
-A fellow backpacker

# 18 July 2012 at 1:37 PM

Chitra said:

Hi Nisha
Wow… that’s what i can say when read about you..
I think i will keep commenting and would settle for chilled beer

# 15 August 2012 at 9:10 PM

Nisha said:

Deeps,
Welcome here, and thank you very much.

Keep coming and keep boosting my moral.

# 24 August 2012 at 10:42 PM

Nisha said:

Love,
Thank you.

# 24 August 2012 at 10:43 PM

Nisha said:

Ravi,
Welcome here and thanks a ton for your kind words.

Would love to see you here, sharing your experiences and guiding wherever possible.

Sorry for late reply, mostly the reason for late reply is my busy travel schedule.

# 24 August 2012 at 10:46 PM

Nisha said:

Chitra,
Welcome here.
And yes, keep commenting and you’ll have lifetime of chilled beer.

But beware, don’t blame me if you start doing hic hic hic …

# 24 August 2012 at 10:51 PM

DEK said:

Like you, I do not count the number of places, but the experiences there. I do not wander much, much tend to settle in to a place. I know, however, that I am and always will be a foreigner and be delighted by whatever my hosts show me.

# 11 October 2012 at 12:18 AM

Nisha said:

DEK,
Welcome here.
That’s one thing that needs a lot of patience & hard work to become a local.

I hope you enjoy your stay.

# 14 October 2012 at 8:05 PM

murthy said:

Hi Nisha
Greetings from Malaysia.
It is great to note that you are a solo traveller like me. I know how much courage and determination it needs to travel solo. I am planning to go to Ladakh via Srinagar in December 2013. May be u could give me some tips on travel to this place. Plse keep in touch via my e-mail.

Have a nice day.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2013!!!

# 31 December 2012 at 7:46 PM

Saurabh Nagar said:

Well I have been backpacking 3 years now and I havent met any Indian backpacker, male or female. Its good to see you doing it. Hope to meet you sometimes, great blog Cheers!!

# 15 January 2013 at 9:25 PM

Nisha said:

Murthy,
Thanks for your kind words.

Is this going to be your first time in India? Keep reading my blog, you’ll get all the tips & stories.

# 17 January 2013 at 2:35 AM

Nisha said:

Saurabh,
Thanks for dropping by.
Yes, very few backpackers in India…. the trend is changing for males though.

Where all have you travelled to? Would be glad to meet you too.

# 17 January 2013 at 2:36 AM

Murthy said:

Hi
Thanks for ur reply.Many years back I booked this Discover India Ticket from Indian Airlines for 21 days and have travelled to many parts of India but never to the very northern area.My intention is to travel to Shimla, Dharamsala ,srinagar manali and Leh/Ladakh.Can u advice me on the trip planning for 14 days starting on 8th Aug to 23 Aug 2013.You may change the itenerary.Thanks.

# 17 January 2013 at 4:10 PM

Saurabh Nagar said:

Nisha,

I have travelled all through the south east asia and I live in China , I am planning Tibet later this year which is actually a dream! and is going to make a hole in my pocket too . Heading to Cambodia and vietnam 2 weeks from now

# 17 January 2013 at 6:02 PM

Nisha said:

Saurabh,
Sorry for replying late but sooner or later, I do reply. I mark the comments to reply and as & when I get time, I reply them. Today is one of those days.

Hope Cambodia & Vietnam treated you well.
Not been to Vietnam, so will pick your brains when it happens. And I think China will happen before that. So warning you.

# 26 February 2013 at 12:22 PM

Le Monde – A Poetic Travail » Blog Archive » How many days to reach Valley of Flowers? said:

[...] Me [...]

# 14 April 2013 at 9:59 AM

Anindita said:

Hi,
I’m a 27 year old woman, planning to take a break, and do some solo backpacking across the country, and probably abroad..plan to start with himachal..came across your blog, its quite inspiring, was just wondering if there are any suggestions/tips you could give..solo travelling for a woman in india does raise a few apprehensions

Cheers,
Anindita

# 4 May 2013 at 4:25 PM

Nisha said:

Anindita,
Sorry for late reply.

Thanks for your kind words. Yes, solo travelling still raises eyebrows in India…. backpacking is even rare.

First tip, which state are you familiar with? As a first timer, start with a zone where you’ll be comfortable. Don’t go to a place where you don’t know the language. After all, you need to communicate with people for every little thing.

Let me tell you, solo backpacking is easy in foreign land compared to India.
How long you intend to travel? Weeks or months?

Shall we take it offline from here?

# 8 May 2013 at 10:20 PM