Introduction
As I sit immersed in the quiet sanctuary of Mahima Library, the oldest library in Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the heart of my hometown, a thought flits through my mind like a fleeting whisper – a thought flits through my mind like a fleeting whisper – what is solo travel? The allure of venturing into the unknown, the excitement of charting unexplored territories, and the freedom to embrace the journey on one’s terms beckon like an irresistible invitation.
Surrounded by the musty scent of ancient tomes and the soft rustle of turning pages, I find myself transported to distant lands, each page a portal to new adventures. In this hallowed space of knowledge and imagination, I ponder the essence of solo exploration and the untold stories waiting to unfold beyond the confines of these hallowed shelves.
The excitement of the idea ran through me as the idea of solo travel took root, igniting a fire within my soul. This research, this exploration of destinations and experiences, is the tangible manifestation of that exhilarating notion.
Solo travel beckons with the promise of freedom and personal growth, inviting us to venture beyond the familiar and discover the unknown. It’s more than simply travelling from one destination to another; it’s an opportunity for self-discovery and exploration. Each solo journey presents a chance to uncover new aspects of ourselves and the world around us. By embracing solo travel, we embrace the chance to learn, to evolve, and to embrace the richness of life’s experiences.
What is solo travel?
Picture yourself standing at the edge of a cliff in the majestic Himalayas, the wind whispering tales of ancient wanderers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from the benefits of solo travel to the best destinations and essential tips to make your solo journey in India unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking self-discovery, cultural immersion, or simply an adventure of a lifetime, this guide will equip you with the tools and inspiration to embark on your solo travel odyssey through India.
Solo travel, also known as independent travel, refers to journeying to destinations alone, without the companionship of friends or family. It’s an opportunity for personal growth, self-reflection, and cultural immersion. Before I add more meat to the bone, I would like to inspire you with many quotes related to solo travel.
Fuel your wanderlust with these solo travel quotes:
“Not all who wander are lost” by J.R.R. Tolkien.
“Adventure is worthwhile” by Aesop.
The Chinese say that there is no scenery in your hometown. They’re right. Being in another place heightens the senses, allows you to see more, enjoy more, and take delight in small things; it makes life richer. You feel more alive, less cocooned.” by Jane Wilson-Howarth
What are some of the best solo travel destinations in India?
India boasts a kaleidoscope of destinations, each offering its unique charm and allure to solo travellers. From the bustling markets of Chandigarh to the serene beaches of Goa, the possibilities are endless. Given below is a list of some of the best places for solo travel in India.
West India
Goa
The land of Goa is famous for its beaches and nightlife. With Portuguese heritage, Goa calls you to explore iconic beaches such as Anjuna, Baga, and Calangute, where you can soak up the sun, indulge in water sports, and immerse yourself in the lively beach party scene. Discover the charm of Old Goa with its colonial architecture, historic churches, and vibrant street markets. From beach hopping to exploring spice plantations and ancient forts, Goa offers a diverse range of experiences for solo adventurers.
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Gateway of India and Marine Drive are some of the most popular destinations for solo travel in Mumbai. Of course, the Bollywood film industry is something that attracts visitors, too, since Mumbai is known for that. Dive into the city’s rich history and culture by visiting historic sites like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya and the Elephanta Caves. Indulge in culinary delights at local eateries and street food stalls, sample street art and graffiti in Bandra, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife at trendy bars and clubs.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Gujarat’s largest city calls you to explore the Old City with its bustling markets and beautiful havelis. Enjoy the designs of places like Sidi Saiyyed Mosque and Bhadra Fort. Explore the Sabarmati Ashram where Gandhiji once lived and led India’s freedom struggle. Indulge in local delicacies such as fafda-jalebi or dhokla. This place is full of vibrant colours, flavours, and heritage that offer solo travellers a world of experience and memories.
Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Dadra and Nagar Haveli calls you to explore and experience its tranquillity and natural beauty. Explore the serene Dudhni Lake and enjoy boating, kayaking, and lakeside picnics here. Enjoy the cultural heritage of Silvassa, the capital city, with its tribal museums, handicraft markets, and traditional dance performances. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat, Dadra and Nagar Haveli welcome solo travellers with open arms.
East India
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling, with its breathtaking landscapes, has a special place in the hearts of solo travellers. In Darjeeling, you are called to explore its tea gardens, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and colonial charm. Explore the lush greenery of the Happy Valley Tea Estate, ride the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and visit the historic Batasia Loop. Indulge in a cup of Darjeeling tea while soaking in the serene ambience of Tiger Hill, where you can witness the spectacular sunrise over the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga.
Konark, Odisha
When we hear Konark, The Sun Temple comes to our minds. Soak in the beauty of the impressive chariot-shaped architecture of this 13th-century masterpiece dedicated to the Sun God Surya. Explore the nearby Chandrabhaga Beach, known for its golden sands and serene atmosphere, and visit the Konark Archaeological Museum to learn more about this beautiful place.
Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Havelock Island, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush greenery, is the perfect escapade for solo travellers. Explore Radhanagar Beach, ranked among the best beaches in Asia, where you can swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Explore underwater wonders at sites like Elephant Beach and Neil’s Cove, where you can encounter colourful marine life and vibrant coral gardens. Trek through the dense forests of Havelock to discover hidden waterfalls, visit remote villages, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tropical paradise. Havelock Island offers solo travellers a serene retreat amidst the azure waters of the Andaman Sea.
Gaya, Bihar
Bodh Gaya is one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world and the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Embark on a spiritual journey and visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and pay homage to the sacred Bodhi Tree.
Explore the tranquil surroundings of the temple complex, including the serene Meditation Park and various monasteries representing different Buddhist traditions. Participate in meditation sessions if you want, listen to teachings by Buddhist monks, and soak in the peaceful ambience of Bodh Gaya, a place of profound spiritual significance for solo travellers seeking inner peace and enlightenment.
North India
Amritsar, Punjab
Enjoy the vibe of culture and spirituality in the land of Amritsar and enjoy the experience of visiting the Golden Temple at sunset. Enjoy traditional Punjabi cuisine at the langar hall. This place calls you to visit historic sites such as the Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border. With its rich history and culture, Amritsar offers its timeless charm to solo travellers.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, the iconic snow-laden hill station, calls you to discover its colonial charm and scenic beauty. Enjoy the charms of the Mall Road and behold the beauty of the mountains. Explore historical landmarks such as the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, and Jakhu Temple. Nearby attractions, too, such as Kufri orr Naldhera, offer plenty of activities you can enjoy like skiing or horse riding. Shimla is a perfect place to refuge during the scorching summer days. All in all, it is a place of nature’s bounty that offers views, adventure, and relaxation at the same time.
Chandigarh
Chandigarh is often called the ‘city beautiful’. This place calls you to visit the Rock Garden, which is created from recycled materials, and the Capitol Complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the markets like the Sector 17 market. Chandigarh is truly a blend of culture, modernity, and greenery perfectly combined.
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Enjoy visiting and exploring the beauty of places like the Amber Fort or Hawa Mahal. Stroll along the vibrant Johari Bazaar and immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Rajasthan by enjoying its customs, foods, and shopping.
South India
Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore is famous for its sandalwood forests. It calls you to explore the Mysore Palace, stroll through the vibrant Devaraja Market, and visit the Chamundi Hill temple. Enjoy the Dasara festival, explore Mysore’s silk industry, and savour local delicacies like Mysore Pak and masala dosa.
Kerala Backwaters, Kerala
Lush greenery, coconut grooves, and beautiful traditional villages come to our minds when we think of Kerala. Such scenic sights call you to explore them on a houseboat. Explore Alleppey’s backwaters, the historic port town of Kochi, and the beaches of Varkala. Ayurvedic spa treatments, kathakali performances, and Kerala’s spices are wonderful gifts to those who travel to this enchanting land.
Pondicherry
The French town of India offers its charms through beaches and spiritual retreats. Explore the French Quarter streets, the Auroville community, and beaches such as Auroville and Paradise. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram for yoga and holistic living.
Central India
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Marvel at the intricate stone carvings of Khajuraho temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its erotic sculptures and architectural grandeur.
Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Raipur is truly a place that is an essence of Central India. It is full of rich history and vibrant culture that calls you to explore its flavours and local markets.
Northeast India
Shillong, Meghalaya
The Scotland of the East calls you to explore its scenic beauty and vibrant culture. Explore the waterfalls like Elephant Falls and Sweet Falls, the gardens of Ward’s Lake, and the views from Shillong Peak. Explore local markets like Lewduh Bara Bazaar and indulge in local cuisines and events like Shad Suk Mynsiem.
Gangtok, Sikkim
The capital city of Sikkim calls you to explore the streets of MG Marg and indulge in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Visit places like Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, and Do Drul Chorten to witness traditional Buddhist rites and enjoy your solo adventure. Nearby attractions like Hanuman Tok or Nathula Pass give you the pleasure of trekking through greenery and beautiful waterfalls. It is a haven for solo travellers who seek fun, relaxation, and adventure.
Aizwal, Mizoram
The capital city of Mizoram enchants solo travellers with its breathtaking beauty. Indulge in Mizo culture and visit places like Solomon’s Temple and Mizoram State Museum. Attend local events like the Chpchar Kut and savour Mizo flavours.
Why consider solo travelling?
The benefits of solo travel are plenty – from self-discovery to freedom, it gifts you with amazing gifts you can bestow and cherish for a lifetime.
Before I dive into the world of benefits that solo travelling offers, I would like to motivate you with some solo travel facts.
- In its research, Kayak found that 38% of Indians prefer travelling solo instead of being a part of a group in 2023. Kayak is a travel search engine.
- There’s been a significant rise of 120% in Q2 compared to Q2 2019 in solo travel in India. This research data is from Airbnb.
- Companies like F5 Escapes and Wander Womaniya Travel cater to solo women travellers by offering all-women group tours, customized vacations, and experiential itineraries.
The following are the benefits of solo travelling.
Personal Growth
Stepping into the unknown means personal growth, and it pushes one beyond what one can imagine. It is all about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone to navigate unfamiliar worlds, make decisions independently, and adapt to new environments. That means lots of personal growth lessons, which may include lessons on self-resilience, self-reliance, embracing new challenges with confidence, etc.
Self-Discovery
Solo travelling gives you an opportunity for deep introspection and self-reflection, which may then allow you to disconnect with daily life and din and bustle and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level. It may be through journaling by the shores of a tranquil lake or taking a stroll in the mountains of the Himalayas that solo travellers discover their hidden strengths, passions, and insights about themselves along the way.
Cultural Immersion
Solo travelling offers a more immersive cultural experience, as travellers get to interact with the locals, participate in local community events, and embrace local customs and traditions without the influence of companions. From sharing a meal with a local family to learning a traditional dance from indigenous tribes, solo travellers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Freedom and Flexibility
Solo travel allows you to travel as per your own sweet will, and you can plan your itinerary according to your interests, preferences, pace, money, and resources. It doesn’t matter whether you are an early riser eager to catch the sunrise or a night owl drawn to the allure of midnight markets; solo travel is all about tailoring experiences according to your needs without compromising on flexibility.
Increased Confidence
It is something that naturally comes when you start travelling alone. It is because when you step out of your comfort zone and travel in unfamiliar environments, it can boost self-confidence and self-esteem. You learn to overcome challenges with confidence, how to solve problems independently, and successfully navigate new destinations. That instils a sense of pride, accomplishment, and empowerment in you and leaves you feeling more capable and confident in your abilities.
Enhanced Social Skills
When you travel alone, you gain a world of experience in your hands regarding social interaction with locals and fellow travellers along the way. Whether it is bonding over shared experiences with fellow backpackers in a hostel dormitory or engaging in meaningful conversations with locals in a bustling market, solo travellers develop valuable social skills and connections that transcend cultural boundaries.
Mindfulness and Well-being
Solo travel, in a way, can provide you with an opportunity to practice mindfulness. It is also a good source of self-care since it helps you focus on other aspects of life when surrounded by monotony in daily life. Practising yoga on a secluded beach, going on a self-date, or simply taking a stroll through nature, etc., are simple yet powerful activities that solo travellers can use to prioritize their mental, emotional, and physical well-being, fostering a sense of peace, balance, and inner harmony.
Empowerment
Taking ownership is the key to a successful solo travel experience. Solo travel allows you to take ownership of your experiences, choices, and destiny. It thus instils a sense of autonomy and empowerment. From planning and executing a trip to navigating unfamiliar terrain, you learn to trust your instincts, assert independence, and embrace your inner strength. You thus overcome obstacles and seize opportunities with confidence.
Memorable Experiences:
It is the moments of laughter, fun, and celebration that we cherish and remember. Solo travel gives us invaluable gifts, and one such (natural) gift is the gift of memories – the memories of experiences and adventures that last a lifetime. Whether it’s witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, stumbling upon a hidden gem off the beaten path, or forging lifelong friendships with fellow travellers from around the globe, solo travellers have the freedom to create their own unique and unforgettable adventures, leaving them with cherished memories and stories to share for years to come.
How To Solo Travel in India?
Implementing solo travel involves careful planning, embracing independence, and staying connected while on the road. In this part, I’ll discuss the how-to of solo travelling in India.
Step 1: Set Your Intentions
You must know your intentions before solo travelling to any part of the country – whether for seeking adventure, a solo date, or maybe some relaxation from the city world. When you do that, your decision-making process becomes clearer and your planning becomes smoother.
Step 2: Research and Choose Your Destination
Go through a list of some solo travel destinations in India that you wish to go to. You may choose budget solo travel destinations in India or the most popular ones – but choose the ones that align with your interests, preferences, and budget. Consider safety, accessibility, cultural attractions, and transportation options before selecting.
Step 3: Create a Detailed Itinerary
Dedicating some time to plan your itinerary in a meticulous way, which includes outlining your travel route, accommodation options, sightseeing activities, and daily budget, is a must. Consider factors such as travel time, transportation logistics, and seasonal weather conditions when scheduling your activities.
Step 4: Book Accommodation in Advance
Book or secure accommodation in advance so that you can solo travel with ease and have peace of mind during your journey. Research and book accommodations that cater to solo travellers, such as hostels, guesthouses, and homestays. Choose accommodations that fit your budget. If such accommodations provide you with opportunities for social interaction, that would be great, too.
Step 4: Prepare Essential Documents
When travelling alone, you must have all the essential documents with you. Gather and organize all the essential documents you might need during your travel adventures. For easy access to such documents, you can store their digital copies securely in a cloud-based platform.
Step 5: Pack Smart and Light
Pack essential items and clothing that are versatile, lightweight, and suitable for the local climate and cultural norms. Minimize non-essential items to reduce the weight of your luggage. Include items such as comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate attire, toiletries, medication, and travel accessories.
Step 6: Stay Safe and Informed
Before moving out, you need to familiarise yourself with local safety guidelines, health recommendations, and emergency protocols. Also, keep an eye on current events, weather updates, and travel advisories regularly. You may consider reputable sources such as government websites, travel forums, and local news outlets.
Step 7: Stay Connected
As you are travelling alone in some unknown place, consider sharing your itinerary with your friends, family, or any other person you trust. Always, I mean always, keep your mobile charged and keep a portable charger with you. You must have an emergency contact list handy in case of emergencies.
Some Tips for Solo Travel
The following tips for solo travel are based on experience and research. Learn to apply them in your next solo trip in India.
Tip 1: Trust Your Instincts
While navigating unknown places, trusting your intuition and instincts is essential. Listen to your gut feelings, assess risks, seize opportunities objectively, and prioritize safety and well-being above all else.
Tip 2: Embrace Spontaneity and Serendipity
As you travel alone, embrace the spirit of adventure and spontaneity. In order to take full advantage of your travel adventures, it is essential to remain open-minded to new experiences, encounters, and opportunities that may arise along the way. By doing so, you create memories to cherish forever and connections with people and places you encounter.
Tip 3: Blend In and Respect Local Customs
Not all places in India are the same – every place has its customs, traditions, and cultural norms, and you need to respect them while travelling. Adhere to local customs regarding etiquette, greetings, and behaviour. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can also go a long way in fostering goodwill and mutual respect.
Tip 4: Embrace Solo Activities
This is a fun tip! Indulge in activities that cater to your interests and suit your passions. Whether it’s embarking on a sunrise trek in the Himalayas, attending a cooking class in Rajasthan, or exploring ancient temples in Tamil Nadu, solo travel offers the freedom to tailor your experiences to suit your individual preferences.
Tip 5: Stay Flexible and Open-Minded
Solo travel is often unpredictable, and many challenges and opportunities may arise along the way. Learn to stay flexible and open-minded, embracing spontaneity and uncertainty as you navigate the twists and turns of your journey.
Tip 6: Connect with Fellow Travelers
Solo travel doesn’t have to be lonely! You can connect with fellow travellers, both locals and tourists alike, along the journey. You can join organized tours, attend local events and workshops, and strike up conversations with fellow travellers in hostels, cafes, and communal spaces. Such activities enrich your experience with companionship and shared adventures along the way. Many websites are filled with some of the best solo travel groups in India, which can help you travel solo without feeling lonely.
Tip 7: Learn the art of journaling and posting on social media
Since travelling involves memories you wish to remember forever, journaling is one of the best ways to capture such memories in the form of visuals and text. Invest in a journal that aligns with your budget and learn the art of journaling your solo travel adventures. That would improve your writing skills at the same time, and who knows, you will become one of the best solo travel bloggers in India.
Also, learn the art of posting on social media. Posting on social media isn’t just about posting; it is about engaging your audience in a way that makes them want more. Learn the art of captioning for social media. For that, you can start following good solo travel bloggers online who post amazing content. As Instagram is popular these days, learn the art of creating solo travel captions for Instagram. That way, you will gain a lot of creativity as well as memories that will last forever.
Conclusion
You’ve finally reached this part! Now you know what solo travel is like, the benefits of solo travel, how to do it, and some of the best solo travel destinations in India. This article is such a long read! Solo travel allows you to explore the rich colours and hues the places have to offer. It’s all about enjoying the journey has to offer. I’d like you to comment on your favourite solo travel destination in the comments below. Or maybe you can share something that you have related to solo travel as you brace yourself up for your next solo trip in India!
