Introduction
I recently had a conversation with an old friend of mine. He got a month’s break from his office, which he utilized thoroughly to enjoy his break. He told me about his adventures and the things he did while he was enjoying his vacation in those places. I was getting so excited, too. After a while, I asked him with whom he went on those trips. He answered me in a single word – ‘solo.’ I, too, felt the urge to go on a solo trip. That led me to search for the best solo trip destinations in India.
This article is a manifestation of my research. In this article, we’ll delve into the best solo trip destinations in India, catering to the growing community of solo travellers looking for memorable experiences.
By the end of this read, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to some of the most captivating destinations in India, ensuring your solo journey is filled with excitement, enrichment, safety, and unforgettable moments.
What are the Best Places to Travel Alone in India?
Solo travel is a unique journey in itself. It can be both daunting and exhilarating at the same time, especially when choosing the perfect destination. Many travellers who wish to travel alone find difficulty in selecting a place that offers adventure, cultural richness, and safety. Fortunately, India is gifted with an array of destinations that cater perfectly to solo travellers. From the serene mountains of the Himalayas to the bustling markets of Rajasthan, there’s something for every solo traveller in India.
Here is a list of the best solo trip destinations in India.
Leh-Ladakh
Nestled in the Northern Himalayas, Leh-Ladakh calls you to explore the rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes. You can embark on adventurous road trips, visit ancient monasteries, and indulge in trekking.
What to do here?
- Trekking! Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are some of the places you can consider.
- Consider spiritual vibes at Hemis, Thiksey, and Diksit monasteries of Leh-Ladakh.
- The Manali-Leh highway calls you for a thrilling motorcycle journey.
Jaipur
In Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan, you are called to blend in its rich history and culture. The majestic forts, bustling bazaars, and the city’s architectural wonders give solo travellers the magical experience they seek.
What to do here?
- Capture the panoramic views! Consider visiting Amber Fort and Nahargarh Fort.
- Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are perfect for traditional handicraft items and souvenirs.
- Consider visiting places like the City Palace and Jantar Mantar observatory.
Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the holiest cities of the Sapta Puri, calls you to experience its mystical vibes. The city, situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, mesmerises solo travellers with its ancient temples, boat rides along the ghats, and, of course, the holy Ganga Aarti ceremonies.
What to do here?
- Enjoy the spiritual vibes of the holy Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat during sunset.
- Enjoy sunrise boat rides along the Ganga Ghats while enjoying the spiritual vibes of daily rituals and ceremonies
- Indulge in the spiritual vibes of Kashi Vishwanath and Sankat Mochan.
Goa
Goa, with its sun-kissed beaches, calls you to experience its coastal paradise vibes. The pristine sandy shores, water sports, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back Goan vibe cast their magic spell on solo travellers. Goa is one of the top solo travel destinations in India.
What to do here?
- Relax! The beaches of Palolem, Anjuna, and Vagator call you to relax soaking in the sun and sea.
- Enjoy parasailing, jet skiing, and scuba diving along the coastline.
- Explore the vibrant nightlife of Goa.
Munnar
Munnar, the serene hill station known for its lush tea plantations, calls you to explore its misty mountains, tranquil lakes, and scenic beauty. Trekking through scenic trails, visiting aromatic spice gardens, and witnessing beautiful sunrise scenes are some of the things that are truly magical for solo travellers.
What to do here?
- Trek! Explore the beauty of the Western Ghats and lush tea plantations.
- Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and cultivation of tea in the region.
- The Tea Museum is perfect for tea lovers who want to explore the history of the cultivation of tea in Munnar.
- Enjoy the panoramic views from Top Station and Echo Point.
Darjeeling
The land of Darjeeling, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, calls you to experience its tea estates, toy rides, and picturesque snow-capped peaks. The peaceful ambience of this hill town, along with the aromatic flavours of world-renowned Darjeeling tea, is sure to give solo travellers a beautiful experience. Darjeeling is also one of the budget solo travel destinations in India.
What to do here?
- Ride the Toy Train through the scenic landscapes.
- Enjoy tea-tasting sessions here. Explore tea estates such as Happy Valley Tea Estate.
- Observe the enchanting sunrise over the Himalayas and Mount K2 from Tiger Hill.
Pondicherry
Experience a fusion of French colonial charm and Indian culture in Pondicherry, a coastal town on the southeastern coast. Pondicherry is one of the best Solo trip destinations in India in December. Solo travellers can wander through quaint French Quarter streets, meditate at Auroville, indulge in delectable French cuisine, and unwind at pristine beaches.
What to do here?
- Visit Pondicherry Beach and marvel at the French colonial architecture
- Explore spiritual vibes at Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville
- Enjoy French cuisine at the French Quarter.
Rishikesh
Seek spiritual solace in Rishikesh, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and revered as the Yoga Capital of the World. Solo travellers can practice yoga and meditation by the banks of the sacred Ganges, go river rafting, attend Satsang, and explore nearby ashrams and temples.
What to do here?
- Indulge in spirituality at renowned ashrams such as Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram.
- Enjoy a white-water rafting session on the Ganges River.
- Enjoy the spiritual vibes of the holy Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat and Parmarth Ghat.
Why Consider These as the Best Places to Visit Alone In India?
India, with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, is an exceptional destination for those who want to travel alone. Each region in India is unique in itself and offers distinct experiences catering to the interests and preferences of solo adventurers.
Solo travellers can discover the charms of solo travelling by exploring a myriad of experiences, from the serene spiritual retreats of Rishikesh to the bustling markets of Jaipur. Whether you want inner peace, or that adrenaline-pumping adventure, India has something to offer you to fulfil your wanderlust.
Each destination has its charm and offers unique experiences to solo travellers. Here are the reasons why you should consider these places as the best places to visit alone in India:
- In the North, Rishikesh, the yoga capital of India, is all about spirituality and adventure sports. This is kept in the list keeping in mind the spiritual growth one may need. Rishikesh is one of the safest solo travel destinations in India.
- Pondicherry adds a French touch to a solo traveller’s itinerary. This is kept on the list for those who want to enjoy some cultural fusion in their travel.
- For those who love nature, I have added Munnar to the list as it offers a serene retreat amidst the natural beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats. You’ll see its name in most lists of ‘safe places to travel alone as a woman in India.’
- For history buffs, Jaipur is the place to go. Jaipur’s majestic forts, opulent palaces, and rich cultural heritage attract history buffs to immerse in the regal history and architectural splendour of Rajasthan.
- For history buffs, Jaipur is the place to go. Jaipur’s majestic forts, opulent palaces, and rich cultural heritage attract history buffs to immerse in the regal history and architectural splendour of Rajasthan.
- For cultural immersion, Varanasi is a must-visit place for solo travel in India. Its ancient temples, bustling markets, and sacred Ganga Aarti offer a captivating glimpse into India’s vibrant culture.
- Goa is perfect for those who love beaches and nightlife. It offers a unique fusion of Indian and Portuguese cultures.
- For those who love visiting hill stations or Himalayan charm, Darjeeling is a must-visit place. The Queen of the Hills is one of the best solo trip destinations in India in summer.
How to choose the best places to travel alone in India?
Choosing the best places to travel alone in India can be challenging. It is essential to consider various factors to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Here is how you can select the perfect destinations for solo travel.
Research and Planning
- Start researching potential destinations that align with your budget, interests, preferences, and travel goals.
- Consider factors like the experience you wish to seek and the duration of your trip. Experience here means the experience you wish to experience, like adventure or relaxation from the trip.
- Take advantage of online forums, guides, and blogs to gather information and insights from fellow travellers who have travelled to the destinations you are interested in.
Safety and Security
- Safety is first and foremost before anything else. Know the status of safety of the destination you wish to visit and check any travel advisories available.
- Choose destinations that are safe for solo travellers, especially those with low crime rates and friendly locals.
- Consider researching accommodations in safe neighbourhoods and factors like transportation and emergency services availability.
Solo Traveler-Friendly Destinations
- Look for destinations that cater to solo travellers with amenities such as hostels, solo traveller meet-up events, and guided tours specifically designed for individuals travelling alone.
- Research destinations that cater to solo travellers with amenities like hostels, meet-up events, and guided tours specifically for solo travellers.
- Consider destinations with like-minded solo traveller communities, where you can connect with them and participate in group tours and activities.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
- Choose destinations with good transportation. That means ease of accessibility to airports, bus/train stations, and reliable public transportation networks.
- The navigation within the destination should be easy. English signage should be available, and accessibility to the needs of solo travellers (if available) should be there.
Cultural and Language Considerations
- Select destinations that offer unique cultural experiences, festivals, and traditions.
- Familiarize yourself with the local language of the place you wish to visit or learn basic phrases to facilitate communication with the locals.
Personal Interests and Activities
- Tailor your destination choices to your personal interests and activities. Choose destinations that offer you the experiences you seek – historical sightseeing, indulging in culinary experiences, etc.
Reviews and Recommendations
- If you know someone who has visited the place or places you wish to visit, do not hesitate to seek recommendations from them.
- Read reviews and testimonials from other solo travellers on travel websites, social media platforms, and forums to gather firsthand insights and recommendations.
By following this framework, you can make informed decisions and choose the best places to travel alone in India that suit your preferences, interests, and comfort level as a solo traveller. Remember to stay flexible, embrace spontaneity, and be open to new experiences as you embark on your solo adventures in India.
Conclusion
This article gives you a glimpse into the vibrant land of India and the destinations you can visit for solo travelling. This article is the answer to your question – ‘Where can I go for a solo trip in India?” You got a chance to read about the best solo travel destinations in Idnia, how to research the places that you may choose as your best fit, solo trip ideas in India, activities, and some tips.
If you feel the urge to go on a solo trip, research, plan, and execute. Pack your bags, step out of your comfort zone, and embark on a solo trip journey that is both enriching and enchanting. Your next adventure awaits!
What are some of the solo travel destinations that you find the best? Share your comments or thoughts about anything you wish to share in the comments section.
