Is Vidarbha Safer for Foreign Tourists Than Delhi, Mumbai, or Goa?

thenewsdirt
Jun 5
5 min read

Foreign tourists visiting India often prioritise safety when choosing their destinations. Vidarbha, a region in eastern Maharashtra, is gaining attention for its tiger reserves, historical sites, and cultural heritage, but how does its safety for international visitors compare to India’s more popular tourist hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, and Rajasthan?

This article examines crime statistics, safety measures in Vidarbha’s tiger reserves, and tourist feedback to provide a detailed comparison, drawing on data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and other reliable sources.

Crime Statistics and Safety in Vidarbha

Vidarbha, encompassing 11 districts including Nagpur, Amravati, and Chandrapur, is known for its natural attractions and cultural landmarks.

Nagpur, the region’s largest city, serves as a key entry point for visitors exploring Vidarbha’s tiger reserves and historical sites.

According to the NCRB’s “Crime in India 2022” report, Nagpur recorded a crime rate of 767.3 per 100,000 population for cognizable crimes under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Special and Local Laws (SLL).

This figure is based on a total of 19,167 crimes, with 12,889 IPC crimes and 6,278 SLL crimes, in a population of 2,498,000 as per the 2011 Census.

In comparison, Maharashtra, which includes Vidarbha, reported a state-wide crime rate of 443.0 per 100,000 population, with 374,038 IPC crimes and 182,974 SLL crimes across a population of 125,736,000.

Data on crimes specifically targeting foreign tourists in Vidarbha is sparse. The NCRB began tracking crimes against foreigners in 2014, reporting 384 cases nationwide that year, with Delhi accounting for 135 cases and Goa 66 cases.

In 2022, 34 incidents of theft against foreigners were recorded across India, 21 of which involved tourists. Given Vidarbha’s lower tourist traffic compared to Delhi or Goa, incidents targeting international visitors are likely fewer, though exact numbers for the region are not available.

Vidarbha’s tiger reserves, including Tadoba Andhari, Pench, and Melghat, are major draws for tourists. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) enforces strict safety protocols in these reserves, such as GPS-equipped vehicles and trained guides, to protect visitors.

A 2019 study highlighted that tigers in central Indian reserves experience stress from high vehicle traffic during tourist seasons, but this primarily affects wildlife, not visitor safety.

Incidents involving tourists are rare, with most reported tiger attacks targeting locals who enter restricted areas during the monsoon season.

Feedback from travel platforms provides further insight. Travelladies.app describes Nagpur as moderately safe for solo female travellers, with a lower crime rate than other major Indian cities.

The platform advises standard precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night. Reviews on TripAdvisor for Nagpur’s attractions, such as Adasa Ganpati Temple and Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, highlight positive experiences without mentioning safety concerns, suggesting a generally secure environment for visitors.

Comparison with Popular Tourist Destinations

India’s major tourist destinations, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, and Rajasthan, attract millions of international visitors annually, but their safety profiles vary.

The NCRB’s 2022 data provides a clear comparison of crime rates across key cities. Delhi reported 318,555 cognizable crimes, resulting in a crime rate of 1,952.5 per 100,000 population. Mumbai recorded 89,098 crimes, with a rate of 715.3 per 100,000, slightly lower than Nagpur’s 767.3. Kolkata, with 5,797 crimes, had a significantly lower rate of 103.4 per 100,000, making it the safest among metropolitan cities. Pune reported 10,533 crimes, with a rate of 280.7 per 100,000.

Crimes against women are a key concern for tourists. Delhi recorded 14,247 cases of crimes against women in 2022, with a rate of 144.4 per 100,000 female population.

Mumbai followed with 6,176 cases, ranking second. Nagpur’s data on crimes against women is not detailed in the NCRB report, but its overall crime rate suggests a safer environment than Delhi. Kolkata and Pune, with lower crime rates, present safer profiles for visitors concerned about personal safety.

Crimes specifically targeting foreign tourists are more prevalent in popular destinations. In 2021, Delhi recorded 27 cases against foreigners, a decrease from 123 in 2019 due to reduced tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rajasthan, home to Jaipur and other tourist hotspots, saw a decline from 16 cases in 2019 to 2 in 2021.

Goa, known for its beaches, has historically reported high numbers of crimes against foreigners, with 66 cases in 2014.

These areas, with their high tourist influx, are more prone to petty crimes like pickpocketing, particularly in crowded markets and public transport hubs. Vidarbha, with fewer international visitors, likely experiences fewer such incidents, though specific data is lacking.

Travel advisories provide additional context. The U.S. Department of State highlights risks of petty crimes and scams in Delhi, Goa, and Rajasthan, particularly in busy areas like markets and public transport.

These advisories note that tourists are often targeted for theft and scams due to their unfamiliarity with local systems.

Vidarbha’s lower tourist density may reduce exposure to such risks, though visitors are still advised to exercise caution.

Unique Appeal of Vidarbha for Foreign Tourists

Vidarbha offers a distinct experience for international travellers, particularly those from developed nations seeking an authentic glimpse of India’s rural and natural heritage.

The region’s tiger reserves, such as Tadoba Andhari, Pench, and Melghat, provide opportunities to observe India’s wildlife up close.

These reserves operate under strict safety protocols, ensuring visitor security during safaris. The presence of trained guides and regulated vehicle access minimises risks, making these sites appealing for wildlife enthusiasts.

Beyond its natural attractions, Vidarbha is home to cultural and historical landmarks. Nagpur’s Deekshabhoomi, a significant site for Buddhists, draws visitors interested in India’s spiritual history.

Other sites, such as the forts of Nagardhan and Ramtek, offer insights into the region’s Maratha heritage. Unlike the crowded tourist circuits of Delhi, Agra, or Jaipur, Vidarbha’s attractions are less congested, allowing for a more immersive experience with local communities.

The region’s lower crime rate compared to Delhi enhances its appeal. Nagpur’s crime rate of 767.3 per 100,000 is significantly lower than Delhi’s 1,952.5, suggesting a safer environment for visitors.

Mumbai’s slightly lower rate of 715.3 indicates comparable safety, but its busier urban setting may increase exposure to tourist-targeted scams. Vidarbha’s quieter pace and fewer tourists reduce the likelihood of such incidents, making it an attractive option for those seeking a less hectic travel experience.

As global travel preferences shift towards offbeat destinations, Vidarbha’s blend of wildlife, history, and culture positions it as a noteworthy contender in India’s tourism landscape. Its tiger reserves continue to draw international attention, with conservation efforts ensuring both ecological preservation and visitor safety.

For foreign tourists, the region’s quieter trails and lower crime statistics offer a chance to explore India’s diverse heritage without the crowds of more established destinations.

The growing interest in sustainable and immersive travel experiences suggests that Vidarbha’s unique offerings will find an eager audience among discerning travellers.