What is the story about?
When we think of solo travel, we often imagine backpackers with sturdy motorcycles, heavy rucksacks, or detailed itineraries. But these incredible women
solo travellers are rewriting the rulebook, proving that courage and passion matter more than fancy gear. From scooty rides through Ladakh’s rugged passes to walking the world with a dog, here are three inspiring stories of women exploring on their own terms.
A Scooty Ride To Ladakh In A Salwar Suit
The route to Ladakh is famous for its steep climbs, rough patches, and unpredictable terrain, which is why most travellers prefer heavy-duty bikes. But a middle-aged woman from Chandigarh decided to take the road less travelled, quite literally, on her old Honda Activa. Dressed in a simple salwar suit, she was spotted riding through the treacherous Manali–Leh highway, smiling her way past Manali, Sarchu, Pang, and Shinghudu on her way to Kashmir.
Her confidence and grit left fellow travellers stunned, and the viral video of her journey has since inspired thousands. For many, she has become a reminder that women solo travellers don’t need expensive equipment to chase adventure — just determination and a love for the road.
Heike & Butch: Walking The World, One Step At A Time
Heike, a former camerawoman for Germany’s biggest broadcaster ZDF, gave up her career 12 years ago to live life on the road. Since then, she has travelled to 104 countries across continents, using every possible mode of transport: bike, canoe, tuk-tuk, and more. But her most unique journey began when she teamed up with Butch, her rescue dog.From riding motorbikes across Mexico and Argentina to canoeing through Vermont and New York, the duo has embraced life as full-time nomads. Today, they are on an epic walking expedition across the world, having already covered 4,500 km across eight countries! For solo travel lovers, their story is a lesson in what adventure really looks like.
Niharika & Theia: A Himalayan Love Story
For Niharika Singh Dalal, solo travel became intertwined with her life as a pet parent. After losing her beloved Labrador Rio to cancer in 2022, Niharika and her husband struggled to cope with the grief. That’s when Theia, a mischievous golden retriever, entered their lives, and soon became her travel partner.From nervous first car rides to conquering the Himalayas, Theia has grown into a fearless mountain explorer. The duo recently drove through Ladakh’s highest passes, and Theia even became the first golden retriever to reach Umling La, the world’s highest motorable road. For Niharika, travel is more than just adventure; it is companionship and finding home in the mountains.
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