How safe is it for a woman to travel alone to India?

No it would not definitely no way whatsoever you will be raped at a minimum ,you will regret the trip for the rest of your life ,assuming that is that you came back alive.

My friend (a female) did a backpacking trip through India and China by herself last year. She had a great time. You just have to be smart about things. Plan stuff out in detail and do a lot of research before hand and you should be fine.

Yeah you can come to India, South India, especially Tamil Nadu is safer than other sates.

If you are a woman travelling alone for the first time you might want to think about group travel as a safer and more hassle-free alternative for India.You can get a lot of unwanted attention and questioning from people, particularly the men, this can be amusing, annoying and sometimes threatening. Many women choose to travel alone in India, I have and have been fine and safe and not felt in any danger. However, if you would maybe like to have a drink in the evening etc then I would recommend bringing a friend (preferably male).

Many if, buts and maybes. I take it you are young/youngish it will depend how you dress, and what mode of transport. If you are going by Rail then Air con 1st Class, which can run expensive and you will only meet middle class Indians. The local trains within Bombay have Women only compartments, but local trains in the sticks you will be running the risk of hassle if not outright danger (safer in the middle and South than in the North towards Bangladesh) I can't speak with any authority as I am a bloke and would rough it anywhere (although as it turned out I stayed in 3* hotels most of the time) and travelled sleeper class with all the average indian lower middle/working class and tipped the beggar children who illegally kept the trains clean (a word of warning if you are feeling broody at all, you will want to be bringing all the under 8 year old orphans home with you). It may be worth asking around on a few sites and finding if any Women (and their Age it makes a difference over 50 and you will be safe) have done this alone. Edit Beware the ignorant tosh from people who have never been, one line answers and don't know India. And contradicted by Kevin's answer of knowing someone who has done it without trouble. Do your Homework. We only live life once.

Well it would have it's risks just the same as all foreign journeys alone. Remember to take the normal precautions, preparations and plans. Research Your Accommodation. Take Out Travel Insurance. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings. Research The Area You're Visiting. Don't Meet Up With Anyone You Don't Know - If You Do, Make Sure People Are Around. Don't Tell Anyone You Don't REALLY Know Where You Are Staying. Travelling alone could be potentially dangerous, if you are particularly wary, maybe go with friends or family or arrange to meet a friend or family member when you are over there. Hope I Help and Happy Travelling If You Do Go Ahead With Your Journey! JoJo

Would be safer to go to Iraq

I think you are mad.

You'll probably just get stared at alot by freshies if your a white woman