Looking for the safest city in India? Let me start this post with an honest confession. Being safe is a relative factor. Different people go through different travel experiences. Hence, the experiences of someone cannot determine or guarantee your safety when travelling to that exact place.
As travellers when we travel to a different country or city, we venture into an unknown territory and that is a risk we take. Hence, we understand that travel safety is more important than we think.
When I and Sarah make plans to travel across India we focus on how we can stay safe and enjoy our trip. As a couple, we look out for safe cities in India that also meet our travel needs and preferences. The advantage we have is that we know what’s happening in our country. For instance, are there any political or social issues stirring up? Are there any major events that can ruin our holiday plans? However, for many international visitors, this might not be the case, especially on their first visit to India.
India is a vast country with diverse cultures, traditions, history, customs, languages and local mindsets. Hence, what is acceptable in one part of the country might be looked down upon in another state. It is therefore hard to keep track of all that, even for us, while exploring various parts of the country.
While this might sound scary and discouraging, let me tell you that visiting India can be a great experience. India is known for its forts and palaces, nature and wildlife, adventure activities, rich heritage, spirituality, art, food and cuisine, handicrafts, yoga and wellness, museums, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and much more. Probably that is one of the reasons why our blog is all about India because there’s so much to cover.
As per the Tourism Department report, 9.23 million foreign tourists visited India in 2023. However, this number is far less than the pre-pandemic number of 17.91 million in 2019.
Before I take you through the list of safest cities in India NCRB list, let me share some numbers that would help you plan your first travel to India. The intent behind sharing this information is not to scare foreign tourists but to create awareness.
Understanding NCRB & Safety Ratings
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) is an Indian government agency responsible for collecting and analyzing crime data as defined by the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Special and Local Laws (SLL). The agency publishes its report annually.
The report takes into account IPC and SLL crime cases and averages them up against one lakh per population.
In simple terms, IPC crimes are crimes that violate federal laws while SLL crimes violate laws and acts framed by state governments.
The information in this post is based on their latest 2022 report. They have not yet released their 2023 report.
You can always use this basic Map of India for reference.
Here are some numbers and data you should know about.
Now that I’ve shared data about crimes against foreigners in India from the NCRB 2022 report, let’s dive into our main topic about the safest cities in India for tourists. Once again this information and ratings are based on the analysis done by the NCRB. The IPC & SLL rate for each city determines the number of cases of cognizable crimes per lakh people.
While most articles on the internet feature the top ten safe cities in India, I chose to go with a dozen for my readers.
So, without further ado let’s find out about the top 12 safe cities in India as per the NCRB 2022 report.
12. Nagpur, Maharashtra
IPC + SLL Rate: 767.3 cases per one lakh people
On the twelfth spot for safest city in India is Nagpur, the Orange City of India. This city produces a large variety of oranges and even exports them to the world. Nestled right in the heart of Maharashtra, Nagpur is where you will find the Zero Mile Stone which the Britishers installed in 1907. This milestone is considered as the point from where all cities were marked in undivided India. While it doesn’t appear like a tourist hot spot you can still see it. Nagpur is also known for its wildlife park and tiger reserves. Hence, it is an ideal place if you are looking for some nature and wildlife tours. You can also pay your respects at Deekshabhoomi which is the largest stupa in Asia. However, Nagpur experiences excessively hot summers. Hence, you should visit this lovely city during the winter months from December to February.
11. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
IPC + SLL Rate: 656.9 cases per one lakh people
Welcome to the City of Nawabs and that’s Lucknow. If you are someone who is into art, literature, music, poetry and architecture Lucknow is the place for you. Being one of the oldest cities in India, it has a lot of history and historical places you can explore. You can visit the Bara Imambara which has the largest arched hall in the world and spectacular gardens. While you are exploring the city you can stroll some of the parks here. Lucknow is also a foodie’s paradise and you can relish both vegetarian and meat dishes here. The city is known for its galouti kebabs, chhole bhature, parathas and lip-smacking biryanis. It also is the capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh.
10. Kozhikode, Kerala
IPC + SLL Rate: 570.6 cases per one lakh people
Making it to the tenth spot on the NCRB safest city list is Kozhikode. Nestled in north Kerala, Kozhikode is the only city in the state of Kerala that gets into this list. Known as India’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Kozhikode is home to more than 500 libraries. Now, this is a bookworm’s paradise for sure. Being among the top 10 safe cities in India is a proud moment for the locals and the law enforcement agencies that have worked hard to provide a sense of security to locals, and domestic and international tourists. At the heart of this achievement lies the Janamaithri Suraksha Project, an innovative police-public initiative to combat crime and restore a sense of security and mutual trust. While Kozhikode is not a tourist hotspot like Kochi in Kerala, the coastal town is known for its beaches and laid-back vibes.
9. Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh
IPC + SLL Rate: 559.9 cases per one lakh people
Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Ghaziabad is a part of Delhi NCR. Hence, it acts more like an extended eastern suburb of Delhi. You can reach most of the local attractions in Delhi within 40 minutes. The city is generally a hub for manufacturing companies because of its proximity to Delhi city. With plenty of malls and temples, Ghaziabad is one destination you can add to your list especially if you are planning to cover New Delhi and the surrounding locations. While it has made it to the safest city in India list I would personally still urge you to take precautions when visiting Ghaziabad.
8. Bengaluru, Karnataka
IPC + SLL Rate: 543.4 cases per one lakh people
Known for its thriving nightlife, amazing weather and vibrant culture, Bengaluru has made it to the list of safest destinations in India. Formerly known as Bangalore, this is the capital city of the state of Karnataka. Known as the Garden City of India, Bengaluru has plenty of green spaces and parks that have earned the city this title. Unlike other coastal cities in India, Bengaluru enjoys a pleasant climate which attracts plenty of domestic and international visitors to it. November to February is the ideal time to visit Bengaluru as the summers have become excessively hot due to climate change. Bengaluru is also known for its diverse culture and food and therefore this is an ideal city for foodies.
7. Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
IPC + SLL Rate: 522.6 cases per one lakh people
Another city that makes it to the list of safest city in India is Kanpur. Known as the Manchester of the East, Kanpur is known for its industrial prowess. However, being one of the old cities of India, it also has a lot of history, heritage and culture. Hence, you are sure to find ancient temples and churches, tasty street food, local markets and much more. Kanpur is also a major leather market. Hence, you can pick some leather-made products like jackets, footwear, handbags and wallets at great prices. It also has one of the oldest railway stations in India.
6. Mumbai, Maharashtra
IPC + SLL Rate: 483.9 cases per one lakh people
I would have loved to see Mumbai a bit high up on the list, nevertheless, I’m happy to see it among the top 10 safest cities in India. Being born and brought up in Mumbai, I can certainly say it is safer here. At this point, I would like to interject that all mega-cities are crime hubs as there is more money to make here. However, in general, the people of Mumbai are helpful and friendly and so are the cops. Also, Mumbai is called the Maximum City and the economic heart of the country. Mumbai also has a huge population of expats who live and work in the city. As per this 2018 BBC article, Mumbai is the best-paying city for expats in India. Being the capital city of the state of Maharashtra it is also the most populated city in India.
5. Chennai, Tamil Nadu
IPC + SLL Rate: 450.1 cases per one lakh people
Making it into the top 5 safe cities in India is one of the biggest cities in South India – Chennai. Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu state. It is India’s fourth largest city packed with ancient temples, holy shrines, spectacular churches, pristine beaches and coastline, vibrant culture, music and literature and delicious cuisine. Being the capital city of Tamil Nadu, you can have a great time here while being safe. The city is also home to the second-longest urban beach in the world – Marina Beach. Stretching 13 km (8 miles) you can enjoy some long evening walks here alone or with your travel partner. Chennai is also a bird watcher’s paradise and you can visit many animal and bird sanctuaries around the city. Vegetarian food lovers can find endless food choices here on their visit.
4. Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
IPC + SLL Rate: 430.0 cases per one lakh people
Another city in the state of Tamil Nadu that makes it to the list is Coimbatore. The city is often voted as one of the safest city in India for females. Solo women travellers looking to explore India for the first time can choose this as their destination. With plenty of women’s safety awareness and public programs, women can move around at will. Coimbatore is also one of the best places to visit during the monsoon season. With its pleasant weather and plenty of tourist attractions, you can have a great time exploring the local museums, botanical gardens and modern shopping malls in the city.
3. Hyderabad, Telangana
IPC + SLL Rate: 299.2 cases per one lakh people
Known as the City of Nizams, Hyderabad is globally known for its lip-smacking biryani. There are thousands of variations of Hyderabadi Biryani across India and the globe. However, it is only fair to try the original when you are in the city where it was cooked first. Hyderabad is one of the old cities in India and therefore you can explore plenty of local attractions like the iconic Charminar and the Golconda Fort. As you wander into the lanes of Old Town look out for bangle makers that still sell handmade bangles. On the other end of the spectrum, this safest city in India has plenty of luxurious hotels and resorts where you can enjoy fine dining and rooftop night parties. Shopaholics can spend time shopping at India’s first IKEA store, at various malls or try local markets.
2. Pune, Maharashtra
IPC + SLL Rate: 280.7 cases per one lakh people
Securing the second spot for the safest place in India is Pune in Maharashtra. Pune is often called the Queen of the Deccan and the cultural capital of the Maratha Empire. Being just 150 km (93 miles) southeast of Mumbai, Pune is a city known for its colleges and universities. It is often called the Education Capital of India. The city is also home to plenty of senior citizens who shift here from Mumbai after retirement. Hence, many call this city a Pensioner’s Paradise. The city is also an amazing destination for foodies who want to try a variety of cuisines. Over the years, Pune has become a party and nightlife destination. The city has hosted a variety of international music shows and artistic events. You can also visit hill stations like Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar from here and enjoy lovely weekend getaways.
1. Kolkata. West Bengal
IPC + SLL Rate: 86.5 cases per one lakh people
Kolkata, the City of Joy takes the top spot on the list being the lowest crime rate city in India for the third consecutive year in 2022. Nestled on the east coast of India, Kolkata is known for its culture, art, literature, poetry, music, and cuisine. When you are in the city you can explore its museums, art galleries, and theatres that showcase the rich and emerging talent this city produces. It is the only city in Asia that still offers trams as a public transport. Seafood lovers are going to have a ball here. However, you can still try the vegetarian dishes and amazing sweet dishes that Kolkata is popular for. With plenty of shopping, festivals, friendly locals and delicious food, Kolkata surely lives up to its City of Joy tag.
Conclusion
While travel is a great way to know our world we also need to be aware of how we can make our trip as safe as possible. Obviously, one has to be receptive about circumstances unfolding and how you deal with the situation at hand. However, knowing things can help us prepare mentally when we are travelling.
Speaking of being aware, you also need to know that Delhi, Kochi, Indore, Surat, Jaipur and Patna are among the least safe cities in India on this list. However, not all domestic and international visitors will have bad experiences as they explore these cities. As per the report, theft tops the list of crimes against international visitors followed by rape and cheating. Here are some practical travel tips for first-time visitors to India.
Now that I have shared this safest city in India NCRB list you might have some idea on how to plan your trip better. However, let me take this opportunity to say that these numbers are only based on crimes reported. Many disputes born from misunderstandings and minor incidents often go unreported. Hence, it is always essential to do some research before you decide what destinations you want to pick for your first travel to India.
If you know someone who loves to travel or is planning to travel to India you can forward them this post to know more about the safest city in India.
4 comments
I would want you as my tour guide if I ever were to visit your beautiful country.
If you are coming to Mumbai, you’ll see me at the airport. Earlier, a Spanish couple did approached me for a tour of Mumbai and I and Sarah gave them a tour of our city. I even wrote a post about it with their images. Thank you for commenting and visiting, Dan.
I second Dan’s comment, Sharukh. This is an excellent and practical topic, especially for people who are less well traveled.
That was interesting about the trams too. Hugs.
Yes, it is a very practical topic because safety is essential. Glad that you liked it. Thanks for commenting and visiting, Teagan. Hugs.