Slight ache in upper thigh / groin area on my right leg when i lift my leg to my chest by bending my knee. i don't see any bulge or anything but could it be femoral hernia or if not what could it be?

Femoral or inguinal hernia does not manifest that way. You aching is either from hip girdle muscles or from the hip by itself. Please recall if you did something usual in the previous day which may strain those structure(s). You should feel better next day or so. If pain persists or gets worse in the next 24-48 hours, you can see your doctor then.