Safety Tips for Delhi

Delhi's reputation isn't exaggerated, but focusing on specific areas and transport makes it totally manageable. I've spent months here solo following these guidelines.

Avoid Paharganj after 9pm: The backpacker hub near New Delhi Railway Station becomes chaotic with touts and harassment after dark. Stay in Karol Bagh or Connaught Place instead — Both have better lighting and police presence. If stuck in Paharganj, never walk the narrow lanes alone after sunset.

Master metro women's compartments: Look for pink signage on Delhi Metro — First and last cars on Blue/Yellow lines, but middle cars on Violet Line. Board at Rajiv Chowk (Connaught Place) or Central Secretariat where crowds are manageable. Trust your gut completely at interchange stations like Kashmere Gate where platform chaos increases.

Safe neighborhoods for solo wandering: Stick to Khan Market, Hauz Khas Village, and the CP outer circle during day hours. These have expat-friendly cafes and good mobile network coverage for emergency contacts. Avoid East Delhi areas like Seelampur completely — Locals themselves don't recommend solo travel there.

The key is understanding Delhi's geography. Most harassment happens in tourist trap areas, not genuine neighborhoods where people actually live and work.