The streets are still alive with protests over the RG Kar rape case from Kolkata, and the Justice Hema Committee report taking showbiz industry by storm. Reflecting on recent sexual violence events, many of you might be carrying a subconscious extra baggage when stepping out of your house. I always encourage women to learn self-defense, and I took up Mixed Martial Arts for the same reason. However, if that's not possible for you, this article offers tips to safeguard yourself in challenging situations. Sometimes, all it takes is a little extra attention to stay out of trouble.
From Digital Struggles to Real-World Adventures
I was exploring India, becoming a certified scuba diver, and completing nearly 100 treks in the Sahyadri and Himalayas. Sharing my adventures online was second nature until I decided to step back from digital hustle—a tough but necessary choice.
Today, rather than offering a typical list of safety tips, I want to share a personal story from one of my solo journeys, taking you along with me from Pune to the breathtaking, yet often unexplored, state of Uttarakhand. Along the way, I’ll highlight the strategies I used to ensure my safety.
The Journey Begins: Pune to Delhi
I was headed to the Roopkund Trek, with a solo journey from Pune to Kathgodam. The plan was simple: board a flight from Pune to Delhi, then take a train to Kathgodam, then take a train to Kathgodam where Bikat Adventure would meet me for a road trip to the base camp. A foolproof plan—I had nothing to worry about.
However, I changed a plan little bit. I decided to reach Delhi two days early and explore the city. The to explore national capital solo felt bold, maybe even reckless. Delhi's reputation as the "rape capital" of India hung over me like a shadow. Excitement mixed with fear as I prepared for the unknown. This was 2017, before COVID and before I discovered MMA. Here’s how I stayed safe.
Accommodations, transportation and seeking help from right people
Instead of staying in budget-friendly Paharganj as suggested by my friends, I opted for the Radisson Blu in Dwarka—more secure and close to the metro. That was first safety measure I took. Secondly, I avoided cabs and relied on local transport like rickshaws, buses, and the metro.
Delhi is a city full of history and culture, and I made the most of my time by visiting landmarks like the India Gate, Red Fort, Lotus Temple and Qutub Minar. I shopped at Chandni Chowk and enjoyed local food at Paratha Wali Galli. Exploring Delhi was a blast!
Third safety measure I took while asking directions or advice, I turned to local women, especially Punjabi aunties, who were incredibly helpful. They guided me to the right stations, shared bargaining tips, and advised me to stay off the streets after 7:00 PM—a safety tip I took seriously. I don’t know why people say Delhiites are loud and unhelpful—my experiences taught me otherwise.
A Twist in the Journey
Everything went smoothly until I missed my train from Delhi to Kathgodam. I expected the thrill to start at the Roopkund base camp, but it seemed the universe had other plans. I went into total panic mode, unsure of what to do next. Friends suggested taking a bus, but I found there were very few buses to Kathgodam, Jim Corbett, or even Bhimtal due to the risky terrain and low lighting. With limited options, I had no choice but hire a private cab.
The driver assigned to me was a Muslim man. Due to societal conditioning, I felt uneasy and uncomfortable with the situation. I checked with the cab provider to see if I could get another cab or at least change the driver, but there was no luck. This was a leap of faith moment—but should I take it blindly?
Testing the waters
Though the cab service provider assured me of driver's trustworthiness, I needed to be sure. So, I tested the driver by changing my pick-up location three times, watching for any extreme reactions. He stayed calm and didn’t complain, which made me feel more comfortable. If he had been aggressive, I would have canceled. This became fourth safety measure.
Finally, boarded the cab with some hesitation, staying alert by sharing my live location and keeping my phone on all night. To my relief, the driver was kind, respectful and very chattery. He talked about his family, also provided information about the places I should visit. Even showed me the Kainchi Dham ashram, where tech titans like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg stayed during their visits to India when they were seeking enlightenment.
After my trek, he extended a heartfelt invitation to celebrate Eid with his family—an unexpected and touching gesture. I spent a day with his family, enjoying Sheer Khorma made by his wife and daughter. It was a warm and memorable experience.
Learning from the Unexpected
The journey was overwhelming, but I realized one thing: people in small towns lead simple, sweet, and uncomplicated lives. They depend on one another for their needs, which fosters a strong sense of community. It was a blissful experience, full of learning. As my voyage came to an end and it was time to return to Pune, I realized that one trip to Uttarakhand was not enough—this feeling was reinforced by the stories my trek leader and the driver's family shared with me.
I’ve since visited Uttarakhand three more times, but more on that in a future post. For now, I hope you’ve gathered some tips to safeguard yourself in unfamiliar environments. Good luck, and may you move forward with confidence and courage in your heart!
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