Beyond the Monuments: An Interview with Sabiha Barlas on Guiding the Heart of India

For many international travelers, India evokes a complex mix of intense fascination and deep-seated apprehension. Its vibrant chaos, sensory overload, and sheer scale can feel daunting—particularly for women journeying on their own. Yet, beneath the headlines and digital warnings lies a country of profound warmth, rich heritage, and quiet, transformative human connections.

To explore what it truly means to navigate and experience this destination authentically, we sat down with Sabiha Barlas, a licensed government tour guide from Women India Tours and a veteran with 15 years of experience on the ground in Rajasthan.

As a Muslimah working in a field historically dominated by men, Sabiha has carved out a distinct path, blending professional expertise with deep cultural insight and a nurturing, sisterly presence for her guests.

Here, in her own words, Sabiha shares her journey, the realities of Muslim solo female travel, and how slowing down can change the way we see both the world and ourselves.

Q1: What inspired you to start guiding international travelers through India, and how did your journey in the tourism space begin?

My journey began with a simple love for my homeland—its history, traditions, architecture, and the incredible stories hidden in every street and monument.

When I first started guiding, I was often the only woman in the profession around me. It wasn’t always easy. As a woman working in a profession traditionally dominated by men, I knew I wanted to create something different. Over the years, I met many Muslimah solo travelers who were fascinated by India but also felt nervous about visiting.

For me, guiding is not just about showing monuments. It is about introducing guests to the real India—sharing tea with local families, discovering hidden neighborhoods, meeting artisans, hearing forgotten stories, and creating memories that stay with them long after they return home through Women India Tours.

Q2: What is the most memorable transformation you’ve seen?

One guest arrived in India carrying a lot of fear. She had read so many stories online that she almost cancelled her trip.

During our journey, we wandered through the blue streets together, drank chai while chatting with local women, laughed with artisans, watched the sunset from Mehrangarh Fort, and shared many conversations.

By the end of the tour she looked at me and said,

“I wish I hadn’t been so scared. India has given me so much more than I ever imagined.”

I’ll never forget that. Moments like these remind me that travel isn’t only about discovering a country. Sometimes it’s about discovering a new version of yourself.

Q3: What is the biggest challenge women face when travelling to India, and how do you help?

I think the biggest challenge is uncertainty. Many women aren’t afraid of India itself—they’re afraid of the unknown. Who can they trust? Who will help if something goes wrong? Will they feel comfortable?

Because I’m a woman, I understand those worries. Through Women India Tours, I personally take care of my guests throughout their journey. I work with trusted drivers, carefully chosen hotels, and reliable local partners. I’m always just a phone call away, whether someone needs help ordering food, shopping in a market, or simply wants reassurance.

My guests often tell me that by the end of the trip they no longer feel like clients—they feel like friends. And that means everything to me.

Q4: What would you say to a fellow Muslimah who is nervous about booking her first trip to India?

I would simply say… Don’t let fear make the decision for you.

India isn’t always perfect. It’s colourful, busy, emotional, and wonderfully unpredictable. But it’s also one of the warmest and most rewarding places I’ve ever known.

Come with curiosity instead of expectations. Ask questions. Slow down. Talk to people. Taste the food. Listen to the stories.

If you choose to travel with me through Women India Tours, I promise you’ll never be alone. I’ll be here to guide you, support you, and help you experience the India that I know and love. I hope that when you leave, you won’t just remember the monuments—you’ll remember how India made you feel.