travel to india solo

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel to India: Expert Tips You Need to Know

May 31, 2023 by Guest

Are you dreaming of solo travel to India?

If so, you've come to the right place. Our friend, Canadian writer and India travel expert, Mariellen Ward not only publishes a travel blog about India called Breathedreamgo , she also offers tours through her company India for Beginners . What's more, she has travelled in India extensively over the past 17 years and has lived in the country for five years. Here she shares insightful tips for anyone planning to travel to India.

India is vast, crowded, and often overwhelming to first-time visitors. It helps to have either a friend or a bit of know-how in order to navigate the culture shock and the steep learning curve to travel in India. With these tips for first-time travelers to India, I hope to give you a head start on your India journey.

The very first thing you need to know is that travel in India is an experience. India is not a vacation destination. Neither is traveling in India about checking tourist attractions off a list. India is an experience. Mariellen Ward Tweet

The more you can slow down and immerse yourself in the culture, the more you will get from your trip.

Table of Contents

About Solo Travel in India

Solo travel in India is actually very popular. I am a solo traveler and I have spent more than eight years solo traveling and living in India altogether. Personally, I think India is a great destination to travel alone for several reasons. One, the people are friendly and warm, and traveling by yourself helps you to engage with local people and experience the culture. Two, India is a particularly good destination for voyages of self-discovery or spiritual quests. 

Many people, myself included, feel India is the most transformative travel destination for Westerners – and solo travel is the best way to have a transformative experience. 

In fact, India is the destination of choice for many solo travelers and spiritual seekers.  Western travelers from Mark Twain to The Beatles, and from Steve Jobs to author Elizabeth Gilbert (who wrote the phenomenal bestseller Eat, Pray, Love ) had profound experiences in India. If you go to India with an open attitude, you may also find the experience affects and changes you. 

Best destinations in India for spiritual transformation:

• Tiruvannamalai

Safety Tips for Solo Travel in India

Safety is, of course, a concern for all travelers and especially solo travelers. The usual cautions about doing research, using common sense, following safe travel practices, and listening to your gut instincts apply, and here are several culturally specific tips to follow.

• Watch for scams . The biggest danger tourists face in India is getting scammed. There are scam artists and con men everywhere, not just in the markets and bazaars. They prey on tourists at the airport and train stations, and in popular tourist spots, to take advantage of unsuspecting newbies. If a “helpful” man tells you that your hotel burned down, the chances are 100% that it’s not true. It’s hard to know who to trust in India, so you do have to have your wits about you. 
• Get a local SIM card . India runs on apps and WhatsApp so you will need it constantly so you can stay in touch.
• Arrive during the daytime . Try to time your travel so that you don’t arrive late at night, especially at train stations. If you absolutely have to arrive late at night, arrange for a driver to pick you up. They can wait on the platform, at your coach, so you don’t have to be alone in the station.
• Dress modestly . For women, ensure your shoulders, legs, and cleavage are covered, and avoid skimpy, tight, and see-through clothing. The exceptions are the beach in Goa and certain parts of Mumbai such as Bandra.
• Take a tour . For your first solo travel to India, or the first few weeks if you are planning a long trip, take a group tour or a custom tour. You can take the time while on a pre-organized tour to learn about how to travel in India and build up your confidence.

My top safety tips for women traveling in India post offers more in-depth travel tips, specifically for women.

Where and When to Go

India is the seventh largest country on earth by size, and the most populous. The culture changes drastically from state to state. In fact, India is more like Europe, a collection of very different cultures, than one homogenous culture. And it’s also a subcontinent, which means you have almost every type of geography and climate from the high Himalayan mountains to the searing hot Thar Desert, and from the lush jungles of Central India to the tropical beaches of the south. 

When you travel solo to India, deciding where to go is the first order of business. A lot will depend on the weather. India has three seasons: winter (October to March), summer (April to June), and monsoon (June to September). Most people find October to March to be the most pleasant time to visit India. However, it can get very cold in North India in December and January, and also very foggy. Expect travel delays, especially around the Delhi area. In the very north, for example, Ladakh, it can be very cold and snowy in winter. June to September is the best time to go to Ladakh. May and June are the hottest months and best avoided.

The three seasons in India:

• winter (October to March)
• summer (April to June) 
• monsoon (June to September) 

Most foreigners fly into either Delhi or Mumbai, both great cities to start exploring. Delhi is the gateway to the so-called Golden Triangle, which refers to Delhi-Agra-Jaipur. These cities are equidistant to each other and within driving distance, and they each offer a wealth of incredible monuments, bazaars, and experiences. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, a very popular state that is well worth exploring. 

Do not believe the negative media about Delhi and skip spending time in India’s capital. There are so many things to do in Delhi – it is one of the most historic cities on earth and a culinary and cultural capital, too. Agra, on the other hand, is not a great place to spend a lot of time. Stay one night and see the Taj Mahal at sunrise. 

Best Destinations in North India

• Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur)

Mumbai is the gateway to South India for those who want to experience the tropical climate, palm-lined beaches, and unique cultures of states such as Goa and Kerala. South India is the ideal destination in December, January, and February when it is cold in North India. 

Best Destinations in South India

• Gokarna, Karnataka
• Kochi, Kerala
• Varkala, Kerala
• Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Things to Know When You Travel Solo in India for the First Time

India is a very different experience for many first-time travelers, especially those from Western countries, and the culture shock and sensory overload are real! There is a lot to learn about etiquette, customs, shopping, eating, and much more. These are just a few tips to get you started.

Avoiding Delhi Belly

Many travelers to India are understandably worried about getting sick. While there are no guarantees of avoiding Delhi belly, you can help prevent it by:

• drinking clean water
• avoiding ice and watery sauces 
• eating fresh, cooked food 
• eating fruit that is peeled

Staying Hydrated Safely

Buy bottled water (check to make sure the seal is unbroken) or carry a reusable bottle and refill it with filtered water. Every hotel, restaurant, and home in India has an RO (reverse osmosis) filter, and the water is absolutely safe to drink. On hot days, make sure you stay hydrated. Fresh lime soda, which is made with soda water, freshly squeezed lemons, and a mix of salt and sugar, is extremely hydrating and delicious. 

Navigating Bathrooms

Indians traditionally don’t use toilet paper, though that is changing and you will find it in higher-end hotels, fancy restaurants, and upper-class homes. Nevertheless, you can’t count on it, so carry a small tissue pack and hand sanitizer with you. Most bathrooms have either a water hose (aka “bum gun”) or jug so you can wash with water, and then pat yourself dry with tissue paper. But please don’t put toilet paper in the toilet – use the trashcan (called dust bin in India). The plumbing in India can’t handle toilet paper.

Train Travel

Traveling by train is a fun way to get to know India. The trains are often crowded and can be dirty, too, but if you have a sense of adventure, you should be fine. As a solo traveler, I have been all over India by train. You will have to book well in advance as trains often sell out weeks ahead of time. It is getting harder and harder for foreigners to use their credit cards in India – as India has an OTP (one time password) security system – so you may have to get a local or a travel agent to book your tickets. 

The train system in India is massive and confusing and will take time to understand. The best trains are:

• Vande Bharat Express

Book 1AC (first class air conditioning) or 2AC (second class air conditioning) or EC (executive chair car) or CC (chair car), depending on the train. If you are on an overnight train, use a cable lock to lock your luggage to the bed frame, and bring a small bag with essentials you will need such as a toothbrush, tissue paper, hand sanitizer, socks, ear plugs, a flashlight, etc. You will be given bedding, but may want to use your own sheet sleeping bag for hygienic reasons. You can read all about train travel in India here for more tips. 

Solo Travel in India: Accommodation

These days, you can book most accommodations in India on Agoda or Booking.com or Airbnb. These platforms may not be as reliable as they are in other countries so you do have to be extra diligent. There are a lot of fake reviews, for example, and even fake photos. Among other things you should check is location. Make sure you are in a safe and tourist-friendly area. In Delhi, I highly recommend staying in leafy, prosperous South Delhi . There are upscale hostels, charming guest houses, and small hotels to choose from, as well as some of the big brand hotels such as Marriott and Hyatt. 

India is a shopper’s paradise. There are a lot of beautiful things to buy and you will be tempted. However, my advice is to not make impulsive purchases, especially if this is your first time traveling solo to India. It is almost guaranteed you will see something similar again during your trip. Take the time to learn about the quality of products so you don’t end up buying things that fall apart in a week. 

If buying expensive items such as jewellery, rugs, pashmina shawls, and furniture, get them authenticated before purchasing. There are a lot of unscrupulous salespeople who will happily sell fakes to naive and unsuspecting tourists. If you hire a guide or driver cheaply, the chances are very high that he will take you to a commission shop, where you will be fleeced. 

You can bargain at outdoor markets and street bazaars, but many stores – especially upscale stores – sell only fixed-price goods. A good rule of thumb is to offer 50% and gradually settle on a price. In India, haggling is a fine art and should be done in a spirit of fun and friendship.  

Here are some more posts to help you in your travel planning process:

• Solo Travel Planning Guide with 2023 Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips
• A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers
• Feeling Overwhelmed? How to Conquer First-Day Solo Travel Anxiety

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

Get Solo Travel News & Deals

• Login to Your Advertiser Account
• Solo Travel Statistics
• Media & Speaking
• Privacy Policy & Disclosure

The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

Solo Travel in India: A Complete Guide (Best Places, Tips & Safety)

Would you like to travel to India solo, but you’re not sure of what to expect? Then this post is for you!

Let’s face it, India doesn’t have the reputation of being the safest country to travel alone, especially as a woman. The media often covers stories about gang rapes and assaults, for example. However, magazines and newspapers don’t always paint a true picture of what it’s like to actually be in a country.

As I’m writing this, I’ve travelled through India solo for a little over 7 months, and although it’s true that this country isn’t for everyone, it’s not as scary as you may think.

India is one of the cheapest Asian countries to travel to. It’s a wonderful destination with an incredibly rich culture, beautiful colours and an abundance of places to visit. When it comes to travelling alone, however, it can be a little challenging sometimes, especially for women.

Travelling solo in India: Everything you need to know

In this post, you will find my experience as a solo female traveller as well as notes about safety, useful tips, and the best solo trip destinations in India. Let’s dive right into it!

Is it safe to travel alone in India?

Most people’s main concern when travelling solo, especially as a woman, is safety. Sadly, when it comes to this topic, India doesn’t have a very good reputation. The media often covers stories of violent gang rapes, sexual assaults, violence against women or even people being stoned to death.

However, although crimes do happen, crimes against tourists aren’t very common in India , and the stories mentioned above most often happen in Indian households.

This being said, it is important to use your common sense and not take unnecessary risks, as bad things can happen in any country.

>> Read: Groping in India: How Common Is It?

Solo female travel in India: My experience

After travelling around India alone for over 6 months, my general impression is that India is a safe destination to travel solo as a female. Again, though, as long as you use your common sense.

There hasn’t been a moment I didn’t feel safe during my travels in India (except maybe on this one occasion where a guy decided to grab my butt while I was walking back to my hotel in the evening), and generally speaking, Indian people are extremely friendly, helpful and hospitable.

However, India is a country where you will get a lot of unwanted attention from men . In my experience, this was especially true in Rajasthan . This is the only state where I started avoiding certain restaurants where I had previously eaten because the waiter would not leave me alone. I told everyone I was married, but it didn’t help.

I think it’s probably easier to travel in India solo as a man. Foreign men also get attention but not nearly as much as women.

>> Read: 17 Things NOT to Do in India

Selfies in India

Another thing you should know is that Indians ask for A LOT of selfies . This may be a little intimidating if you’re not used to travelling alone or if it’s your first time in Asia.

On many occasions, I found myself encircled by huge groups of people (often just men), all asking for a selfie. The amount of people asking for selfies depends on the places you’re visiting and how touristy they are, though.

Know that you can always say no to selfies if it makes you uncomfortable. Indian men would never ask an Indian woman they don’t know for a selfie, after all.

Note that it’s not okay if a man puts his arm around you and that they wouldn’t dare to try this with Indian women. It doesn’t happen very often, but it does happen. Don’t be afraid to tell them to keep their distance.

Here are some pictures from my Indian selfie collection:

All in all, I feel like travelling in India alone as a female is just as safe as it is in many other countries. I’ve felt more unsafe in Brussels , where I was born, many times.

Depending on where you’re travelling, you can get a lot of unwanted attention, though. So it’s important to know how to handle that.

Is India a country for you?

This being said, India may be a little overwhelming, and it’s not a country everyone will like . I’ve often heard people say they either love or hate it, and it seldom leaves people indifferent.

The best way to describe India is that it affects your senses . It can be chaotic, loud and overwhelming at times. It all depends on the region because India is incredibly varied, but it is true what they say: some parts are dirty, people can be pushy, overpopulation is a problem, there is a lot of poverty, Delhi belly is real and travelling in India can be uncomfortable.

But why do I (and many others) love India then?

Well, India is a country unlike any other and it changes you. It’s steeped in culture and tradition , and it’s insanely varied . Each state feels like a different country with different landscapes, languages and traditions. The number of places to visit, festivals to attend and things to learn in India will simply blow your mind.

And I haven’t mentioned the vibrant colours and incredibly hospitable and warm people yet – two of my favourite things about this country.

You will have to go see and decide for yourself though. I think India is an incredible country, but I can imagine not everyone feels the same way.

>> Read: Is Delhi Safe? A Solo Female Traveller’s Perspective

Tips to stay safe during your solo trip to India

• Use your common sense: Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t and when you’re travelling solo it’s not the right time to be reckless and take unnecessary risks.
• Dress appropriately: When travelling, it’s important to respect a country’s culture and to dress appropriately. India is conservative, and although it is okay for women to wear Western clothes, it’s not the right place for hot pants and spaghetti tops. You may see women wearing these in cities like Mumbai or Bombay , but this is not the norm in most of the country. As a foreigner, you will already stand out and get a lot of attention, so dressing appropriately is important. I’ve written an entire post about what to wear in India as a woman , check it out to prepare yourself.
• Get a local sim: This will allow you to access the internet and look things up at any time, without having to rely on wifi. You can get an Indian sim card at the airport and it doesn’t cost much. The most popular internet providers are Airtel, Jio and Vodafone.
• Look confident: Walk as if you know where you’re going, even when you don’t have a clue. You’re less likely to get scammed, ripped off or harassed compared to if you’d be walking around looking clueless.
• Be wary of scams: Be aware of the fact that there are many scams in India, especially in touristy areas. Don’t trust just anyone, and don’t be afraid to hold your ground.
• Don’t play Holi alone: I hate saying this, but I don’t think it’s safe to celebrate Holi as a woman alone. I won’t get into the details here, though, as I’ve written an entire post about what Holi is like for women.

>> Read next: What to Pack for India as a Woman

Best places for solo travel in India

India offers an abundance of great places to visit on a solo trip, and it would be impossible to name them all.

However, I’ve compiled a list of 13 amazing places for a solo trip to India below. Whether you’re up for a solo trip to the mountains, coastal regions or city, this list has got you covered.

If you’re not sure which part of the country to head to, check out my post that mentions the differences between North and South India , it might help you decide.

1. Jaipur, Rajasthan

The so-called Pink City , Jaipur, is the capital of Rajasthan, and there are plenty of beautiful things to see here. From the stunning Hawa Mahal to the enormous Amer Fort, the colourful Patrika Gate and the beautiful Monkey Temple , it’s a city that doesn’t disappoint.

Jaipur is part of the famous Golden Triangle Tourist Route, which connects the Pink City to Delhi and Agra (the latter is home to the Taj Mahal ). It’s a perfect destination for a first solo trip to India, and to get a taste of beautiful Rajasthan.

2. Pushkar, Rajasthan

Pushkar is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. This is one of the oldest cities in India, and it’s famous for its many temples. The town is centred around the sacred Pushkar Lake, with numerous ghats in which the pilgrims bathe. According to the story, the lake was created when Lord Brahma dropped a lotus flower on the spot where it’s located today.

This little town is one of the best cultural destinations in India , it’s a great place to learn more about the Hindu culture and its many traditions. One of the best things to do here is to attend the evening aarti ceremony. At this time, the ghats are filled with chants and the fragrance of incense.

3. Udaipur, Rajasthan

In my experience, one of the best places to meet other solo travellers or expats is Udaipur , which makes it one of the best places to travel alone in India if you want to meet other travellers. This city, often dubbed the City Of Lakes , is home to beautiful palaces, interesting temples, beautiful cenotaphs and, as you might have guessed, numerous lakes.

Besides visiting everything the city has to offer, Udaipur is also the perfect place to decompress and relax on one of the numerous rooftops overlooking Lake Pichola.

4. Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Jodhpur , India’s blue city is one of my favourite cities in the country (I have a thing with blue houses). This is the second-largest city in Rajasthan, and it’s a great place to get lost in the narrow alleys.

When it comes to the question of why Jodhpur is blue, no one seems to know for sure. According to some, the Brahmin caste started painting their houses blue to distinguish themselves from lower castes while others say the blue colour keeps termites away.

It’s good to know that not every house is blue in Jodhpur , though, and you will find many streets without a single blue house. However, blue is the overall theme here.

5. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi , also called Benaras or the City of Temples , is the most famous pilgrimage town for Hindu pilgrims, but it’s also considered sacred by Buddhists and Jains. It’s believed that this city dates back to the 12th century BC, making it one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities.

Death is a big part of life in Varanasi, as it’s believed that if you die here, you’re liberated from the cycle of death and cremation. In this city, you will find people bathing and washing away their sins in the waters of the holy Ganges, while others are being cremated at the cremation ghats.

On top of that, this city is full of interesting rituals, the most famous one being the Ganga Aarti .

All in all, if you want to learn more about India’s old traditions and beliefs, then Varanasi is one of the best places to start.

>> Read: Varanasi Photography: 21 Pictures That Will Inspire You (+ Tips)

6. Pondicherry and Auroville, Tamil Nadu

With its heritage buildings, French quarters and ancient temples, Pondicherry is a city like no other. Often called the French capital of India, this unique yellow-themed town is truly charming. It’s a great place to relax, meditate and learn more about the Indian philosopher Sri Aurobindo.

Make sure not to miss Auroville (and even spend a few days here) when you’re in the neighbourhood, as it’s just 10 km (6 mi) from Pondicherry. This is an experimental township that aims to realise human unity – in diversity, and it’s one of the most unique places I’ve been to so far. It was founded by Mirra Alfassa, also called The Mother , and based on her and Aurobindo’s vision.

7. Alleppey, Kerala

Known as the Venice of the East , Alleppey (or Alappuzha) will take your breath away. This place is home to endless palm trees , beautiful backwaters, historical temples and ancient churches. It’s a great area to enjoy nature and relax.

One of the most popular things to do in Alleppey is to rent a houseboat and float around on the backwaters while enjoying the stunning scenery. Other than that, Alleppey is a great place to explore beaches, sip coconuts and visit some of the temples and churches.

>> Read: 15 Days in South India: A Perfect Itinerary

8. McLeodGanj (Dharamshala), Himachal Pradesh

McLeodGanj , near Dharamshala, is a hill station in the Indian Himalayas. This place is famous for being the home of the Dalai Lama , and being the largest Tibetan community in India, it’s often called Little Tibet .

Many travellers stay in McLeodGanj for weeks or even months to learn more about the Tibetan culture, meditate, take part in the Dalai Lama’s teachings and explore the surroundings. This is another place where you will find plenty of other solo travellers, long-term travellers and expats.

9. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

If you’re looking for a place in the Indian Himalayas that’s not too difficult to reach and offers great hiking and adventuring possibilities, then Manali may be the place for you.

This town is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and waterfalls, and it’s one of the most popular hill stations in India. Besides hiking, some of the best activities to do here are paragliding, rafting or simply relaxing by the mountains.

It’s good to know that the best places to stay in Manali are either Old Manali or Vashisht. I stayed at both places and preferred Vashisht, as it’s quieter than Old Manali.

10. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh , the yoga capital of the world, is another great place for a solo trip in India. This is a popular travel destination that became famous when the Beatles visited the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in the 1960s.

If you enjoy yoga, want to dive into spirituality or are looking for more adventurous activities like river rafting or bungee jumping, then Rishikesh might just be the perfect place for you.

11. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh (or Ladakh)

This one is for adventurous solo travellers! Spiti Valley, a cold desert in the Indian Himalayan Mountains, is a spectacular destination unlike any other.

Besides some of the world’s most unique landscapes, you will also find Tibetan monasteries and remote mountain villages here. Spiti is one of my favourite places in the entire world, and riding the motorbike here is still one of my favourite adventures.

As an alternative, you could head to Ladakh too. I haven’t been here myself yet, but I’ve heard that it’s very similar to Spiti Valley. Ladakh is harder to reach, though, it will take you 1 night and 2 days by bus from Delhi, but there are flights to Leh, the capital, too.

I haven’t been to Goa myself, but it couldn’t miss on this list. This state is home to many of India’s finest beaches. It’s the perfect place to relax by the sea, soak up the sun and go surfing.

Apart from its golden-sand beaches, Goa is also famous for its nightlife, forts, churches and temples. It’s a destination that has a lot to offer and you will find many travellers and expats here, which makes it a perfect solo travel destination in India.

13. Kolkata

Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta) was the capital of India until it was moved to Delhi in 1911, and this is my favourite metropolitan city in India! I’m OBSESSED with the old-school yellow taxis.

This is a safe destination for solo travellers, and there are plenty of things to do here. From exploring Kolkata’s beautiful historical landmarks to taking a trip to the famous Sundarbans, you won’t get bored in the so-called “City of Joy”!

🇮🇳  The travel resources I use for India By purchasing through the following links, you can support me at no additional cost. 💜 🏨   Booking  &  Hostelworld : To find the best hotels, hostels and guesthouses 🚃  12GoAsia  &  Bookaway : To book trains and buses in advance 🛺 Ola : The best ride-hailing app for India 🛫  Skyscanner : To find the cheapest flights 🏕  GetYourGuide  &  Viator : To book great tours and activities 💰 Heymondo : One of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies (get 5% off with this link !) 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa to visit India .

Travelling alone in India – Final thoughts

In conclusion, I think India is a great place for solo (female) travellers. It’s not a country everyone will like, but those who do will love it!

You will get a lot of unwanted attention, however, especially as a female alone, and it can be a bit overwhelming sometimes. On the other hand, it teaches you a lot, and India is truly a truly wonderful destination.

What’s your experience solo backpacking in India? Let me know in the comments!

Are you planning a trip to India? Check out my itineraries!

Read more about India:

• How to AVOID Getting Sick in India: 10 Tips You Need
• 11 Tourist Scams in Delhi to Avoid
• 36 Indian Landmarks to See on Your Trip
• The Cost of Travel in India: How Much Does it Cost?
• The Ultimate India Travel Bucket List: 34 Ideas
• 25 Souvenirs from India That Don’t Suck
• 60 Quotes About India to Inspire Your Trip

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has been travelling solo for years. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

You may also like

21 summer festivals in india to visit in..., holi in varanasi: the good, the bad and..., 1 day in delhi itinerary: the city’s highlights..., 8 places to visit in pushkar in 1..., jaipur itinerary: 2 perfect days in the pink..., solo travel in sri lanka: everything you should..., 41 beautiful landmarks in india to see on..., 12 best things to do in madurai in..., solo travel in ghana, togo & benin: a..., is delhi safe a solo female traveller’s perspective....

totally agree with whatever you said specially “I feel free & myself” “Trust your Gut”, that is what I did for my solo travels and people around you will always help. Girls have to say across strong No cause people dont understand when said politely. I had strangers around me who noticed & pitched in and shouted at the those people who were constantly asking.

Hi Gina, thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree. Happened to me too twice when a guy was following me in the streets (not in India but in Pakistan). When people saw he was bothering me, they stepped in and stopped him so that I could walk away.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Asia Chevron

India Chevron

Traveling Solo in India? Read These Tips

It’s just past sunset, and a wave of blinding yellow headlights flows past as I stand on a crowded corner in Mumbai , struggling to hail a rickshaw during rush hour. Most whiz by, occupied and oblivious to my plight; some pause and then zoom off when I tell them where I need to go. After 15 futile minutes, a man approaches me, face obscured by a helmet and the name of a food-delivery app, Swiggy, emblazoned on his shirt. Unasked, he waits with me and chases down rickshaw after rickshaw; when he finds one willing to take me, he makes sure I get in, nods, and rides off into the traffic on his scooter, at one with the blur of flashing lights.

This fleeting encounter from last week encapsulates so much of how I feel when I travel solo in India: being constantly catapulted from feeling vexed to blessed and back again.

I’ve roamed historic Fort Kochi, hiked in the ethereal terrain of Hampi , holed up amid the Portuguese casas in Goa , and found myself at a house party in the Andaman Islands, all while traveling on my own. And whenever I post pictures from those trips on social media, I’m inundated with messages from women, all asking the same thing: Do you really feel safe traveling by yourself in India?

It’s a valid concern. Last summer, a Thomson Reuters Foundation survey gave India the far-from-commendable title of world’s most dangerous country for women —the country is racked by high numbers of rape and sexual violence, and horrifying stories involving local women and tourists alike regularly make headlines.

It took me awhile to feel comfortable traveling within India on my own, and not only because of the shocking news reports. I come to India every year and while I feel completely at ease, it’s also a place where I’ve been coddled by family, and never really felt independent—my grandmother insisted I travel with a driver or be accompanied by the cook, even if I just wanted to go to the grocery store two doors down to buy a bag of chips. The result: I found myself feeling more comfortable navigating Europe, Africa, or South America on my own than I did a country that I knew so well.

In recent years I’ve made a concerted effort to explore different corners of India—and if no one was able to join me, I forged out on my own. I’ve come a long way since I last wrote about this topic six years ago. Exploring the different faces of this massive country, at once so vast and yet so intimately familiar, has resulted in some of the most exhilarating travel experiences of my life...but it hasn't been without challenges. Here are some precautions I take to help me feel comfortable:

I never fully wing it in India: I book flights that arrive during the day, and have a hotel and some activities arranged in advance. I usually use Uber to get around, but in times where I might be traveling long distances or late at night (people regularly advise me not to take Ubers after dark in Delhi, for instance), I’ll consider booking a hotel car or hiring a driver for the day through a travel agent. If you’re coming from the U.S., booking nice hotels and hiring a car and driver or a private guide can be much more affordable than in other parts of the world—often around $30 for a full day. Guided tours are always a great way to both get your bearings and get some company—including fellow travelers you can make plans with after the tour. I also dress appropriately for each place: anything goes in a city like Mumbai, but you’ll want to keep your legs and shoulders covered in more conservative areas.

Whenever I canvas social media for tips, it inevitably leads to introductions to friends-of-friends. I’ve hung out with people in Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, and Jaipur through social media introductions, and was even invited to a friend’s friend’s sister’s home for biryani in the suburbs of Kochi. (This was also how I wound up getting invited to that party in the Andamans, in one of the coolest houses I’ve ever been to.) But use social media wisely—I always later-gram my posts, even my Instagram Stories, after I’ve left a place.

Use a local SIM card

SIM cards are incredibly cheap in India—I paid $7 to get unlimited calling, texting, and 1.5GB of data per day for three months—and having a local number makes it easier to connect with drivers. Plus, while airports and restaurants often have free Wi-Fi, which is key for staying in touch and plotting your next steps, you often need a local number to log in. Look for stands from providers like Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio at the airport.

Keep your guard up

This goes without saying and applies anywhere. Every person and every place is different, so you should stick to your comfort zone and extricate yourself from any situation that doesn’t feel right for you. I’ll be honest: A lot of my comfort level in traveling solo in India comes from the fact that I look Indian, dress Indian, and speak Hindi, so I don’t stand out as much as other travelers might. Mariellen Ward, a Canadian travel writer who blogs at Breathedreamgo , currently lives in Rishikesh and often shares her tips for traveling solo in India , gleaned from more than a decade of travel across the region. “Foreign women, perhaps especially blonde women like me, are a major attraction in India and you sometimes draw a lot of attention. It can be unnerving,” she says. “Most of the time, it's just innocent curiosity.” She encourages women to back out of any situation that doesn’t feel right, even if you have to be abrupt, and I agree: My intuition is my most important defense—even if a situation most likely seems fine, if I don’t feel good about it, I turn around and leave.

Recommended

Raffles Jaipur: First In

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Asia Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Central America
• South America
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

India , Solo travel

Solo travel in india – everything to know.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Are you thinking of travelling solo to India? I’m guessing if you’re reading this, the answer is yes! Before my first solo trip, I was pretty nervous so I can imagine you may be feeling apprehensive, excited or even both. I’ve been exactly where you are, hence I put together these India solo travel tips to help and guide you. It may seem overwhelming to start with but, after 3 successful trips, I’m proof you can have a rewarding and trouble-free trip to India with a little planning.

INDIA SOLO TRAVEL ESSENTIALS India Lonely Planet Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Activities: GetYourGuide Getting around: flight ( Skyscanner ) / bus / train ( 12Go ) e-SIM: Airalo India e-SIM card / Asia (inc India) e-SIM Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Read next: the ultimate guide to travelling alone as a woman

My experiences travelling solo in India

I first visited India in 2015 with a friend, and plucked up the courage to return for 2 months solo in 2019. I was nervous about what it would be like alone but I managed to overcome any challenges and have a fantastic time! Then, I returned again in 2023 to host my first group tour with readers of this blog.

Is it safe to travel in India alone?

Telling people you’re taking a solo trip to India usually results in negativity. But, as I share whenever anyone asks for solo travel tips , you need to be selective when taking advice. Has the person been? Are their sources up to date? Well, if not, smile and move on. I’m here to share a little reality and try to hopefully strike the right balance between encouraging and preparing you . Is India the easiest destination to travel solo as a woman ? Well no . Will you get looks and stares and sometimes feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed? Well, most likely yes . Is that a reason not to go? Well, if you are confident and prepared, no . Can you have a fantastic trip alone in India that’ll provide some of the most wonderful, precious memories of your life? YES!!

All in all, India is not for everywhere and it’s not the best first-time solo travel destination. It may be best to build your confidence up in other places first. If you hate crowds and getting stared at, it may never be your place! But I love it. We all know the best things in life don’t come from taking the easy route. If India appeals, you owe it to yourself to experience this culturally-rich, contradictory wonderland that’s like nowhere else on earth! Overall, it is safe to travel alone in India provided you stay cautious and follow the right advice. I’ve broken down my tips in the order you’ll need them…

Read next: the downsides to solo travel and how to overcome them

Planning tips for solo travel in India

Prior to your trip, spend some time focussing on the following…

Choose carefully where to go

Unlike travelling solo in Thailand , Vietnam , Malaysia or Bali (click for solo travel guides to those places), you can’t travel everywhere alone in India. I would recommend choosing easy places to start, for example:

• Rishikesh – this hippie town in the mountains is known for its yoga culture and all things related like meditation and sound healing. Put on the map by The Beatles (whose old casa complex can still be visited as a tourist attraction), it’s become a popular tourist destination with gorgeous river beaches and mountain scenery to boot.
• Goa – this is an obvious first destination for solo India travel. My personal favourite place was Palolem (and nearby Patnem) with beautiful beaches and amazing food (local and healthy/vegan). Other popular tourist towns in Goa include the capital, Panjim, and beach towns Agonda, Aramobol and Anjuna.
• Rajasthan – although it’s busy and hectic, this is a well-trodden part of India where tourism is concerned and every city has fantastic hostels and guided activities where you can ease yourself in. Read about the best places to go in my Rajasthan itinerary .

Read next: 28 best places in India to travel solo

Stay on grid

Travelling solo in India is very different from travelling Southeast Asia alone . When I offer advice for backpacking Europe alone , I’ll tell you to get off-grid and escape the tourist trail as it’s safe and easy. However, I wouldn’t recommend this for India because attitudes to women vary considerably when you get out of more progressive cities where they’re used to seeing tourists. Small, non-touristic towns in India are where you don’t want to be. Stick to places with solid tourist infrastructure, recommended by reputable publications or other foreign travellers with first-hand experience.

Plan, plan, plan

This is my number one solo travel tip for India, and in fact any country. Life’s surprises can be great but you don’t want any nasty ones when travelling alone in India. Research how you’ll get from the train station to your accommodation and be aware of common scams for each destination. Pushkar has a few , as does Delhi airport .

Don’t pack too much into your itinerary

Since life in India can be hot and hectic, you run the risk of getting exhausted and emotionally overwhelmed if you’re constantly on the go with no downtime. The other thing you need to prepare for: getting sick and having to spend a couple of days recovering! For this reason, I’d suggest not booking too much non-refundable accommodation just in case. Booking.com usually have a generous refund policy, and Hostelworld lets you pay a very small deposit to ensure you can cancel close to the time!

Safety tips for India solo travel

There’s no point sugarcoating it: personal safety is most people’s biggest concern when travelling to India. These are my tried and tested travel tips to stay safe while travelling solo as a woman .

Arrive by day

This is an obvious but important safety tip. As a general rule, I’d recommend arriving in places during daylight hours. If you DO have to arrive at night due to public transport schedules, there are workarounds. If you have a local SIM, you can call an Uber in most larger towns and cities. In smaller places, ask your accommodation to send someone to meet you or pre-book a taxi.

Charge your phone and power bank

These days, it’s hard to imagine what it would be like to travel without technology. For all its pros and cons, tech makes it so much easier and safer to travel solo in India. I ensure my phone doesn’t die on me when I need it by travelling with a power bank . I usually charge it overnight and boost my camera and phone off it during the day.

Get a SIM card

On the note of staying connected, I would highly recommend getting a local SIM when travelling alone in India. Jio, Airtel and Vodafone are a few of the main providers. They don’t make it THAT easy because you’re required to show your passport, visa and proof of home address to get signed up… But once you have, it’s worth it!

Update – Airalo are a game-changer in the e-SIM industry, allowing you to download an e-SIM in advance so you can connect as soon as you land. Browse their India packages from $4 or get their Asialink card that covers 18 countries including India.

It goes without saying you shouldn’t be travelling anywhere without insurance especially India where health and safety isn’t always the greatest, plus it’s common to experience gastro problems. Personally, I use True Traveller (for European residents including the UK) since it’s affordable but covers everything you need including valuables and pre-existing health conditions. The last time I claimed, they paid out within 2 days which I’ve never experienced with any other company! Get a quote now . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Internet security

This isn’t your typical solo India tip but it’s very important… When my card was copied and I had to deal with hackers stealing hundreds of pounds from my account, let’s just say I wasn’t a happy bunny! This could happen anywhere, not just India, so I would always recommend using a VPN when travelling, especially when it comes to paying for things online or typing in passwords and usernames. Nord VPN is my provider of choice; their plans start from $3 a month.

Clothing and packing for India

I know lots of foreign travellers to India will have questions surrounding what to wear in India and how to dress. A good place to start is by looking at the locals and emulating them… Not in a cultural appropriation way, but simply by observing what body parts they cover and doing the same. India is a place where foreign travellers get a lot of attention whatever they’re wearing. So to minimise it as much as possible, I’d recommend covering your legs and shoulders especially in holy places such as temples. Because it gets very hot, you should opt for light, loose clothing where possible, preferably in pale colours to stay as cool as you can. Sunglasses, suncream, a sun hat and comfy shoes are also essentials.

Read next: what to pack for India

Advice for getting around India alone

Travelling around safely is another point of concern for many travellers preparing for their first solo trip to India. If you’re unsure whether to travel by bus or train , I would suggest the train where possible. It feels like a more authentic Indian travel experience compared to buses which you can take in any country, plus it’s more spacious and you can get up and walk around. However, there are some places – like the mountainous region of Himachal Pradesh (including destinations like Dharamshala ) – where there are no trains, only buses.

How to book tickets

Thankfully, the complicated old system of booking train tickets (the official IRCTC ticket website which required receiving a text to an Indian SIM, or emailing your passport scan) is no longer necessary because you can now book tickets on the 12go website. Booking bus tickets is also easy with 12go .

Tips for riding the train

Riding the train is a fun, India essential!

• Understand the classes – AC First Class Sleeper has lockable doors, while AC2 has just curtains, then there’s also AC3 and Sleeper Class. I wouldn’t recommend the latter as it’s hot and crowded.
• Know you’ll be sharing – on Indian trains, you’ll be assigned a bunk (upper or lower) across from another bunk in a carriage off the train corridor. So, if you’re solo, you’ll be sharing with three others.
• You can eat and drink – chai sellers come around selling chia tea and coffee. Snacks and water are also sold.

Ride Uber or Ola

Within big cities, it’s easy to call Uber or Ola to get around. It’s very affordable: I paid 400 rupees ($5) to travel for an hour halfway across Delhi! It feels like a safe way to travel because there’s a panic/emergency service option on the Uber app.

Prepare your airport transport in advance

Annoyingly, Indian airports usually only let you use the Wi-Fi if you have an Indian phone number. You can get a SIM card in Delhi airport but it can take hours to activate. This means you won’t be able to use the internet between landing and getting to your accommodation, so you need to plan the journey in advance. 2024 UPDATE – now you can get an Airalo e-SIM so you can connect right away. Game changer! I would suggest getting your hotel or hostel to pre-book a taxi to meet you at arrivals. Make sure the driver knows your name and hotel as there are common scams where guys will pretend to be your driver (sometimes involving third parties to confuse you) then try and take you to a different hotel. If you haven’t booked already, head to the official taxi stand walking past any touts who try to get your attention. You pre-pay (card accepted) before getting in.

Tips for health and wellness

There’s nowhere I’ve been quite as sick as India! While it shouldn’t stop you from going, I would recommend that you prepare well. Of the various pros and cons of travelling solo , the numero uno con is getting sick without anyone to help. So do your best to prep in advance!

Take probiotics

I highly recommend preparing your stomach for your India trip. Probiotic tablets are your best bet because you can take them to India with you. Eating other gut-healthy foods like kimchi and kombucha in the weeks before your trip is also a good idea.

Water & sanitation

You probably already know not to drink the tap water in India. Most backpacker hostels offer free fill-ups so you simply need a  reusable water bottle . However, on my most recent (more flashpacky) trip, I realised that unfortunately, hotels make you buy plastic bottles which is a real shame. For better sustainability, bring a   filtering water bottle that makes any water safe to drink.

Have rehydration sachets ready

Being sick while travelling by yourself in India does suck, I can’t lie. Find something good to binge on Netflix and wait for it to pass while dosing up on electrolytes to restore your body’s natural balance. These can be bought cheaply from any pharmacy.

Money tips for a solo India trip

India is the most affordable travel destination of the 64 countries I’ve visited so far, but there are still some money and finance tips you need to know…

Read next: how much does a trip to India cost?

Fee-free bank accounts

Although ATMs in India usually charge a fee you can’t avoid, you can dodge further charges by travelling with a card that doesn’t charge fees of its own. My favourites for UK travellers are Starling and Monzo, but other nationalities can apply for Revolut and Wise cards ( Wise is also a great platform for transferring money between currencies with minimal fees).

Split up & have spare bank cards

This is a great tip for any destination! Losing your bank card abroad can be a nightmare. I travel with all the bank cards listed above partly because they’re great generally, but also because I have backups if one gets lost. Also, don’t carry all your cards at once. Just take out one and leave the others at your accommodation. When travelling between destinations on a train or bus, keep them all close to your person in your most secure bag.

ATMs in India charge between 150 and 300 rupees as a fee. For this reason, I take out the max amount each time of 10,000 rupees ($120). One thing to note is that ATMs are often out of cash so don’t wait until you’re totally out otherwise you may end up walking around all the ATMs in town hungry and thirsty!

Tips for making friends during solo travel in India

Just because you’re travelling solo in India (or anywhere) that doesn’t mean you have to spend every moment alone! There are lots of ways to meet people when travelling alone including…

Stay in hostels

This is the numero uno way to meet people backpacking in India! There are lots of great hostels including the Moustache , Madpackers and Hosteller chains. You can meet people in the dorms, in the social area, or during social events held at the hostel such as food tours and shared dinner nights.

Do tours & activities

Meet like-minded people during activities you both enjoy. I recommend both GetYourGuide and Viator who offer sightseeing tours as well as fun activities like street food tours.

Overwhelm & emotional wellness

The internet is full of tips for physical wellness alongside safety tips, but not everyone mentions emotional wellness. Travel is a privilege and India is a dream destination for many, however it can be emotionally taxing to be always ‘on’ in terms of assessing your surroundings and safety. So make sure to take care of yourself during your solo India trip! Book a nice hotel to relax and recover every now and then, or a private driver and airconditioned car for the day.

Stares and selfies

One thing to prepare yourself for is lots of stares from locals and copious selfie requests. The first thing to note is that 99% of the stares are purely curiosity, coming from not just from men but also women and children. Of course, there’s the odd occasion when men are being creepy. In this case, all I can recommend is ignoring them and getting on with your day. Of course, if you are feeling unsafe, stay in busy, public places and call a taxi to get away safely. In terms of photo requests, it may seem novel to start but will probably become an annoyance after the 100th one! Just know it is ok to say no if you’re not feeling it.

Ease yourself in

It may be worth booking a nice hotel for the first night and an aircon car tour for your first day. This is an especially good tip for solo travel in India if your first stop is Delhi which is notoriously hectic and overwhelming. Nice hotels in South Delhi (the most pleasant part of the capital) include Bloomrooms , Prakash Kutir Bungalow 157 , B Nineteen , Avatar Living and The Stay Inn . Check Booking.com for more. For your first train ride, you may want to treat yourself to AC Tier 1. Once you’re feeling comfortable and confident, get a bit more adventurous with 2 or 3!

Thanks for reading!

Read more India blogs:

• 3 day Jaipur itinerary
• Things to do in Pushkar
• Where to eat in Pushkar
• Complete India budget break down
• Places to travel solo in India
• India female packing list
• Top things to do in Amritsar
• Rishikesh travel guide: yoga, nature and the Beatles!
• Rishikesh cafe guide: 16 cute and hippie cafes
• Mcleod Ganj, Dharamsala travel guide: visiting Little Tibet!
• Guide to Pondicherry travel
• The best cafes in Pondicherry
• Auroville day trip from Pondicherry
• Where to eat in Palolem, Goa

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

VISITING INDIA?  These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner and search by whole month to find the best value dates. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. Use 12Go to book . Trains – these are a good option for long journeys because you have a bed rather than a seat. Use 12Go to book . For hotels , I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food experiences with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Pack the latest copy of India Lonely Planet . e-SIM: Stay connected with an Airalo e-SIM data plan: they have an India SIM card or an Asialink card covering 18 countries that you can download in advance of your trip. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Framing Adventures | One Click At A Time

Solo Travel In India: A Helpful Guide For Beginners (+10 Tips)

She is a 50-year-old professor from Delhi University who loves to hike the mountains occasionally to keep herself fit and take a break from life. She has been trekking the remotest regions in the Himalayas since the 1990s, even before it became a cool activity in India.

He is a professional poker player who has been making money online and backpacking across India since 2012. He never documents his experiences because he loves to keep them private. Solo travel in India is a way of life for him.

She had just quit her job and come to Goa to volunteer and travel. She recently finished her certification as a yoga instructor in Mysore, and now teaches yoga through Instagram to make a living online and travel the world.

These are some inspiring people I’ve met ever since I started travelling solo in India in 2017.

It wasn’t very comforting initially when I got started with travelling solo in India. But I did it anyway because my friends were either busy with their lives or backed off at the last moment while making travel plans together. And I didn’t want them to come between me and my travel dreams.

I’ll be honest here. I was anxious during my first few solo travels in India.

I had never spent time with myself before. I wasn’t sure about the safety aspects if I explored places on my own. Most importantly, I was never comfortable meeting new people and talking to them as I was an introvert.

Cut to the present day, I’ve not only become more outgoing, but I’ve also met some amazing people like the ones I mentioned in the beginning. It eventually inspired me to quit my 9–5 job, become a digital nomad and travel the world.

If you do it right, travelling solo in India has the potential to change you as a person as it did for me. The benefits that come along and the experiences you have will add greater meaning to your life.

I started Framedventures as a solo travel blog in India and hence, it was only a matter of time before I talked about this topic at great length.

So in this article, I want to tell you everything I know about solo travel in India based on my 3+ years of experience so that you, too, can take a leap of faith like I did and have life-changing experiences along the way.

This blog post will be especially useful for male and female solo travellers looking forward to travelling solo in India for the first time.

5. Solo travel is meant for bachelors only

5. you’ll develop curiosity and become more knowledgeable, 5. different ways to travel alone in india, 5. you’re used to being connected online 24*7, 7. check in to your accommodation and figure out local transport, 8. tentgram, 10. pack light, how do i plan my first solo trip, what is solo travel (and what it isn’t).

As the name suggests, solo travel is a form of travel in which you travel alone and explore the world on your own. Rather than relying on your friends and family, you depend on your own company to tour the globe.

But more importantly, you should know what solo travel isn’t because there seem to be a lot of misconceptions about solo travel in India.

Let’s go through the top 5 misconceptions about solo travel :

1. You’ll be alone and bored during your travels

‘Don’t you get bored travelling alone?’

It is one of the most common questions I’ve faced as a solo traveller.

Let me tell you one thing.

Solo travel is not just about travelling on your own, but also about meeting people on the road. While you can choose to be alone on your solo travels, meeting new people and having unique experiences with them are the essence of travelling alone.

The best part is that you can decide who you want to meet, how much time you want to spend with them and when you like to be alone.

2. Travelling alone is scary

I have to confess.

As someone accustomed to being around friends and family, I wasn’t very sure about the idea of travelling solo. The same is the case with everyone who goes out there for the first time.

However, as you go through a few solo travel experiences, the anxiety reduces naturally. You’ll realise that the world is safer than what you’ve been told otherwise through mainstream news channels and possibly, your relatives.

The local population you meet in your travel destination, especially in India, loves meeting travellers and exchanging cultures. From my experience, they’re some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet.

As a cherry on the cake, you also get to meet other travellers at your destination who have similar travel goals to you.

Don’t blindly follow what you read or hear from ‘trusted sources’. You’ll never know the reality of a place unless you go out there and experience it yourself.

And trust me, your perceptions about your travel destination will change for the better once you explore it.

3. You need to have money to travel alone

Ten years ago, travelling alone wasn’t easy and required some investment. But with the advent of technology and internet penetration today, it has never been easier to travel alone on a budget.

In fact, I would like to say that you can save more money as a solo traveller than when you travel in a group.

I’ve met young college graduates who have hitchhiked from Kanyakumari to Jammu and Kashmir without much pocket money. I’ve also met backpackers who volunteer at a place in exchange for free food and accommodation by making use of platforms like Workaway .

So your total costs boil down to the kind of trip you’d like to have.

The increase in the accessibility of hostels, and platforms like Workaway and Couchsurfing (more on this later) have reduced costs for solo travellers. It means that you can focus more on the things that matter to you while travelling solo.

The same can’t be said, though, when you’re travelling in a group because you need to consider the interests of your friends/partners and compromise accordingly.

I have lost count of the number of times I had to adjust for my friends, like eating at a fancy restaurant or staying at a posh resort which resulted in an increase in my travel expenses. While there’s nothing wrong with having these preferences, you may/may not want these things to define your trip as much as the experiences you’d like to have at your travel destination.

I’m sure you would have faced similar dilemmas while travelling with your friends/partner.

4. Solo travel requires more planning and work

Instead of having a pre-planned itinerary (with a group), as a solo traveller, you take the time out to explore a place freely without any plans and absorb yourself in your surroundings. Therefore, the experiences you have as a solo traveller turn out to be more engaging and captivating than when you’re in a group.

Additionally, planning for solo travels is much more liberating than planning for a group. It is because you call the shots for what you want to do and how you want it. There’s no one dictating what to do, and you don’t have to be accountable for anyone as well.

Thus, it becomes easier to follow your heart and do the things you love. Hence, planning for your solo travels becomes a breeze and exciting at the same time because you are your boss.

I was part of a batch of people who went on the Brahma Tal trek in Uttarakhand . In the group, there was a 60-year-old man from Kolkata who had retired from his job. Although his pace was slow and lagged behind the remaining group, he completed the trek with us (people who were half his age).

On another trek ( Goecha La trek in Sikkim ), I met a guy who was a married man and in his 40s. He had a kid, and he said that he and his wife often go on solo travels to take a breather from life. His wife had gone for a solo Himalayan trek just a few months back.

I have more such stories to share, but I hope you get the point. You don’t need to be a certain age or be single to travel alone.

And that is the beauty of solo travel.

You can do it whenever you want. Don’t let other people tell you what you should and shouldn’t do.

If you genuinely love travelling, you’ll take the time to do it irrespective of the circumstances you’re in right now.

Why you should travel solo?

When you travel alone, you develop essential life skills that will help you immensely in the years to come. Moreover, travel is truly the best form of education if you do it with purpose and intent.

The following are the top 5 reasons why you should travel solo :

1. You’ll learn to become independent

Initially, you may struggle to accept being on your own, but you become self-reliant eventually as you get more solo travel experiences under your belt. Being independent and having the freedom to do whatever you want is liberating and one of the best benefits of travelling alone.

You get to plan your itineraries, travel around a place for an extended period, or even chill at your hostel if that’s what you want.

You’re answerable only to yourself and no one else.

Moreover, you can take a break from life and spend time with yourself which may not be possible in a group (more on this later).

How much more powerful can it get?

2. You’ll be more sociable and make more friends

The ability to meet new people and share experiences with them makes you more open-minded, empathetic and friendly.

You become flexible as you keep meeting different kinds of people from different walks of life because you learn how to behave with each person and adapt to their mannerisms and cultures.

For example, earlier, I wasn’t sure if I could hang out with people five years younger/older than me. But now, I don’t have any problem because I’ve shared hostel rooms with people from different age groups as a solo traveller.

This particular skill of making new friends will help you increase your social circle and network which will be an asset down the years.

3. You’ll know more about yourself

I have been travelling across India since 2017, and without exaggerating, I can confidently say that I have learnt more about myself post-2017 than I did in my entire life.

As a person raised in a conservative middle-class Indian family, you don’t get much time to yourself because friends and family always surround you. Additionally, your parents decide your life and career even before you know it.

But when you travel alone, you get time to reflect on your life and learn new things about yourself with every travel experience.

For example, when I went on my first-ever Himalayan trek in 2018 , I fell in love with the sights and sounds of the mountains so much so that I didn’t want to go back to my corporate job. It started my passion for mountain treks, and within two years, I quit my job to become a digital nomad and travel the world.

You’ll also have similar ‘aha’ moments when you start travelling solo.

4. You’ll be a problem solver and a decision-maker

Let’s be honest here. As a solo traveller, you’ll face challenges on the road.

For example, you may get stuck in a hill station due to landslides, or your homestay may make a last-minute cancellation. The silver lining is that such experiences help you prepare for similar occurrences in future.

Every time you face a problem, you’ll learn how to deal with it and come out on the other side. With every problem that you solve, know that you’ve become more resourceful and wiser.

It is an invaluable life skill that will take you ahead in your life, not just in your travels.

You don’t become knowledgeable by clearing a few exams, watching movies or reading some books. They certainly help, but the first-hand, practical experiences you go through and learn from while travelling are incomparable to anything else you’ll ever come across in your life.

When you travel alone to a destination, you’ll discover so many things about the place for the first time that even Google won’t tell you. You’ll develop a sense of curiosity eventually and start questioning everything around you.

It will encourage you to travel and learn more about the world around you. It is a cycle that keeps on repeating itself.

What are the benefits of solo travel in India?

Now that you know why you should travel solo, let me tell you why you should travel solo in India.

The beauty of India is that it is vast and diverse. I often tell people I meet from other countries that India consists of countries instead of states.

No two states are the same because every Indian state has its own culture, religion, food, language, and geography. Sometimes when you travel within an Indian state itself, you’ll see stark contrasts from one region to another.

For example, the food habits of people you meet in North Kerala are different from that of South Kerala. People consume non-vegetarian Sadya (a traditional Kerala feast during Onam) in places like Kozhikode and Mallapuram (North Kerala), whereas in Trivandrum (South Kerala), you’ll get only vegetarian Sadya.

Similarly, Ladakh is a very remote place with dry mountains and a small indigenous population in the northern part of India. In contrast, Bangalore is a cosmopolitan and commercialised city in South India where you’ll meet people from different parts of India.

In short, as a solo traveller, there’s so much to absorb when you travel across different parts of India. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your travel destination.

Having said that, let me give you 5 benefits of solo travel in India :

1. Indians are hospitable and friendly

Safety is one of the first things that come to your mind, especially if you’re a female solo traveller in India. You want to be sure that locals and hosts at your travel destination treat you well.

Of course, you need to check reviews about your destination and the place you’re staying, but in general, Indian people are very hospitable and friendly. It is even more true in the remotest regions of India, where the local population and tourism are less.

You only need to be aware of scammers and touts present in the commercialised tourist hotspots across India which you’ll figure out easily based on your instincts and travel experiences.

2. Cheap accommodations everywhere

Over the years, there has been an increase in the popularity of the backpacking culture in India as well as significant exposure to several tourist destinations across the country due to social media.

Due to this, there is increased accessibility of hostels and cheap homestays, even in the most secluded regions of the country.

You no longer have to pay a bomb to have a comfortable and convenient stay. There are accommodations available for every kind of traveller in all tourist destinations across India.

3. Different modes of transport available

Almost every part of India is well-connected either by road or rail. And therefore, you don’t have to rely on a particular mode of transport to get you from place A to place B.

For example, instead of hiring a cab, you can now rent a motorbike in a quaint hill station like Chikmagalur , making it convenient and cheaper for you to travel long distances.

Similarly, you can cover all parts of New Delhi at a reasonable cost by making use of the Delhi Metro.

4. Opportunity to meet fellow solo travellers

As with the global trend, many Indians prefer travelling alone now , and this figure has been steadily increasing, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. It is good news for you because you can meet more like-minded people on your travels.

And from experience, solo travellers are some of the most open-minded people you’ll ever meet. I have personally made friends from my solo travel experiences in India and I continue travelling with them every year.

You too can have a great time with the fellow solo travellers you meet, make your travels more fun and become friends with them for life.

Do you want to trek through the highest tea plantations in the world in Munnar but your friends aren’t interested? Worry not.

A few camping and trekking operators in Munnar offer group treks wherein they put you in a small group of people and trek with you to some of the remotest regions of this popular hill station in Kerala.

Do you want free food and accommodation while travelling solo ? There are many platforms/groups in India that offer you the chance to volunteer with them.

Do you want to camp at the ‘Grand Canyon of India’ ? There are tour operators who conduct group trips for solo travellers to Gandikota Canyon, based in Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh.

In short, you have all kinds of options these days for the type of trip you wish to undertake, even as a solo traveller (more on this later).

Why you shouldn’t travel solo?

While I always advocate for everyone to try out solo travelling, the reality is that it is not ideal for all. If, after a few solo travel adventures, you’re not enjoying your experiences, you may choose not to continue with it.

The following are the top 5 reasons why you may not enjoy solo travel :

1. You don’t like meeting people

If you don’t like meeting new people and are introverted, you may not enjoy travelling solo.

It is because when you travel solo, you’ll meet people from different backgrounds and cultures constantly, especially in India.

As a solo traveller, you’ll have to do small talks with fellow travellers and locals who would be interested to know more about you and may ask you questions you may not be interested in answering.

In such scenarios, it’ll be hard for you to enjoy their company if you prefer being left alone.

2. You don’t like spending time with yourself

Contrarily, there will be a lot of time when you’ll be alone during your travels. This will be hard for travellers who’re extroverted or like being around people all the time.

The harsh reality is that the people you meet on your travels won’t be with you forever.

Hence, if you’re not used to spending time with yourself, you may get bored easily and struggle to enjoy your trip.

As a solo traveller, enjoying your own company is a must if you wish to travel solo in the long run.

3. You don’t like going out of your comfort zone

As a solo traveller, you need to be flexible with your travel plans. You may get last-minute cancellations from your homestays, or the weather at your destination may be awful.

These kinds of situations happen very frequently.

During times like these, you need to stay composed and be proactive on what to do next.

If you don’t like your plans changing often, you may not enjoy solo travelling.

4. You prefer fancy hotels and resorts over cheap accommodations

Staying at fancy hotels and resorts is a personal preference. But if you’re overly dependent on them, it’ll be hard for you to travel solo because flexibility with accommodation is crucial.

As a solo traveller, you’ll find more options for cheaper homestays and hostels than resorts, especially in the small towns and villages in India.

If you expect your homestays and hostels to be of the same quality as your resorts, you’ll be disappointed.

Although internet coverage has increased in India, there are still many places where you won’t find network coverage, forget about internet coverage. In some instances, you may not even have network coverage for days.

And hence, if you’re someone who’s used to being online always, you’ll not enjoy your time on the road.

It is, therefore, essential for you to be comfortable with being disconnected from the online world.

How do you plan solo travel in India?

Planning a solo travel in India is not as hard as you might think. After your first few travels, you’ll look forward to planning your future trips much more than experiencing the trips themselves.

The way you plan a solo trip in India is also very subjective. Some people like to go to a destination without planning anything. In contrast, others prefer planning everything as it gives them peace of mind.

I fall in the latter category, but I try to slip into the former one whenever I can as it keeps my travels interesting.

Due to this, I’m having the best of both worlds. I know how my trip will pan out while keeping some travel elements unplanned to surprise me.

For example, whenever I go for solo travel in India, I plan my hostel/homestay bookings because I don’t like taking a chance with my accommodations as it matters a lot to me. But instead of planning all the places I have to visit at my destination, I check in to the hostel/homestay first and then figure out what to do next.

Similarly, solo trip planning for you may be different from mine and will be subjective. For you, your accommodation may not be as important as the places you want to visit in your destination.

In any case, let me give you a basic rundown of how to plan solo travel in India based on my experiences. You may choose to follow these 7 steps completely or take inspiration from them whenever you plan your next solo travel in India:

1. Choose your travel destination

Luckily for you, being a diverse country, India has different travel destinations for every type of traveller.

Do you love being around calm and peaceful backwaters ? Kerala is your best bet.

Fancy scuba diving in turquoise-blue waters ? The Andaman has to be on your bucket list.

Would you like to go on a challenging trek in the Western Ghats? Then you must try the Kumara Paravatha trek in Karnataka .

What about witnessing living root bridges, Asia’s cleanest village and the tallest plunge fall in India, all at once? Meghalaya is your answer .

Whatever is your preference, you have all the options available in India. Choose a destination that interests you.

You need to know what your destination is known for and how it can help you fulfil your interests. For example, if you’re a bike lover, you already know that Ladakh is an option.

Do your research online and read more about the place you’re visiting to understand your destination thoroughly.

2. Get an idea about the places to visit/the experiences to have

It’s always a good idea to be aware of all the places you can visit/the experiences to have at your destination. Even if you don’t plan to see all of them, at least it sets the right expectations for you.

I read through travel blogs to understand these things about my travel destination. You can also watch travel vlogs on Youtube.

If you’re very particular about having an itinerary in mind, you can create one based on the places you like the most. Else, you can let it be and figure out everything once you’re at your destination.

Pro-tip: If you’re creating an itinerary, it’s preferable to leave aside one day, in case you miss covering any place/experience due to delays.

3. Check out the best places to eat at your destination

I’m very particular about what I eat, not because I’m choosy but because I want to have the best possible experience for myself. It also helps me understand my destination better because local food is a big part of the Indian culture and it varies from region to region.

You don’t have to be strict about this but you can have an idea of some good dishes and restaurants to eat at just so that you’re not missing out on the experience it offers.

I use TripAdvisor and Google to check out the ratings and reviews of the restaurants at my destination.

Pro-tip: Always try to have local delicacies instead of something you’re used to having already. It helps you gain knowledge about new dishes and expand your taste.

4. Book your flight/train/bus

Once you’ve figured out the things to do and places to eat, you can go ahead and make a flight/train/bus booking depending on how far your destination is.

I use Kayak to book my flight tickets as it gives me the cheapest rates.

IRCTC is the only app I recommend to book your train tickets.

For bus tickets, you can use apps like Redbus / Abhibus to book private/state government buses.

Some state governments in India also offer their own online bus ticket booking apps/websites like the Karnataka state government does with KSRTC .

Booking a government bus from the state government’s bus portal turns out to be cheaper always as compared to booking from private players like Redbus and Abhibus. Hence, I recommend doing a Google search to check out the state government bus website belonging to the travel destination that you’re visiting.

Pro-tip: If you’re booking a flight, it’s better to do it one-two months in advance as it gets expensive after that. In some cases, booking a flight may be cheaper one-two weeks in advance but it depends on luck.

5. Book your accommodation, preferably a homestay or a hostel

For booking your accommodation, I recommend choosing a homestay or a hostel. At a homestay, you’ll get a homely feel while in a hostel, you can meet other travellers.

I suggest Hostelworld for booking hostels. It is an aggregator of all hostels at a particular destination.

For homestays, I recommend Booking and Airbnb . You can find different kinds of homestays on these platforms.

If you want to take it up by another notch, you can use Couchsurfing , where you can stay for free with a host at their home, although you may have to spend some quality time with them (more on this later).

6. Pack your bags and make a move for your destination

Pack your bags a day or two before your trip commences.

The best way to make packing your bag a breeze for any travel is by preparing a master checklist of all the things you generally need for any trip. I use Google Keep for this purpose.

Based on the travel destination(s) you’re visiting, go through your master checklist, tick off all the essential things you’ll need for that particular trip and pack lightly.

You may not know the important things to pack during your first couple of solo trips but as you get experienced, you’ll learn what to pack and more importantly, what not to pack (more on this later).

Ensure you charge your cameras and phones fully.

If you’re travelling by flight, reach your airport two hours in advance.

I also follow a twenty-minute rule wherein after accounting for the time I’ll need for reaching an airport or a railway station, I’ll add twenty additional minutes to the planned time, in case I get late due to traffic or other reasons.

You too can do something similar when planning your travels.

Check in to your accommodation, take a shower and relax for some time. For your first day, you can take it easy and walk around your area to get accustomed to the place.

This is what I do for all of my solo travels.

During this time, you can ask the host at your accommodation about the different modes of transport available at your destination. Many homestays have tie-ups with cab drivers as well so you can also enquire about the same.

If you’re staying at a hostel, you can meet people in your dorm, hang out with them and make travel plans together for the coming days.

You can also enquire about renting two-wheelers at hostels.

Pro-tip: At your homestay/hostel, you can enquire about the places to visit/the experiences to have from the host. As they’re locals, they may know some hidden gems in your destination that you may not have seen online.

How do you travel solo with a group in India?

Did you know that you could go for a trekking or a backpacking experience in India with solo travel groups?

If you prefer travelling solo and meeting people from across the country but hate planning your trips, plenty of tour operators across India offer group tours for solo travellers.

With a group tour, you only need to plan your travel to the pickup/starting point of any trip. Everything else is taken care of by the tour operator.

A group tour package typically includes your food, shared accommodation, itinerary and a guide.

Tour operators have a set travel itinerary with fixed departure dates throughout the year. Every group usually consists of 15-20 people, but this may vary for every operator.

To book your seat in any group, you can visit the respective tour operator’s website/Instagram account to enquire about their group tours. Before doing so, ensure that the tour operator is authentic by researching and reading their reviews online.

To make it easier for you, given below are some of the major tour operators in India I know that provide group tours for solo travellers across India :

1. ChaloHoppo

They’re specialists in providing offbeat trips and cultural experiences in all the Northeastern states of India.

2. IndiaHikes  

They’re India’s most prominent trekking organisation, specialising in group trekking tours in the Himalayas.

3. JustWravel  

They organise backpacking trips, Himalayan treks and weekend getaways, especially in and around Northern India.

4. LetsGoForACamp

They’re a leading tour operator in Kerala specialising in exploring offbeat locations in Kerala, focusing on women-only fixed group tours.

5. PlanTheUnplanned

They specialise in hikes in the Western Ghats apart from Himalayan treks and backpacking trips across North India.

6. One in the Orange Jacket

Led by Vysakh, One in the Orange Jacket organises outdoor-focused group trips and high-altitude treks across North India, Nepal, Bali, Vietnam, Russia, and Kazakhstan.

7. BikatAdventures

They provide a learning-based adventure experience in small batches in the field of trekking, mountain biking (cycling) & mountaineering expeditions in the Himalayas.

They’re an experiential travel company that provides stays in unexplored places (mostly across Kerala) with organic food and fun-filled activities.

10 tips to keep in mind while travelling solo in India

Whether you plan your trip yourself or decide to do a group tour, it’s essential to understand how to travel solo in India because it is a complex country to navigate, especially if you’re not an experienced solo traveller.

Let me give you 10 of my best tips for solo travel in India that’ll help you have fantastic experiences across this diverse country:

1. Be respectful of the religious and cultural traditions

India is a country of different religions and cultures. Always respect them.

You may or may not agree with them, but you need to obey them if you want to get along.

It also means dressing conservatively, especially if you plan to visit certain sacred Hindu temples across India. You may not get an entry otherwise.

Do your research online before you plan to visit such religious sites.

I’ve also seen people taking photos inside sacred temples and Buddhist monasteries despite a signboard telling them not to. It is better to refrain from such behaviour as it will only get you in trouble.

2. Be extra careful of your belongings and money

It would help if you were on high alert when you travel alone, especially in India.

Although people, in general, are friendly, ‘certain people’ will pounce on any valuable item they see anywhere in the public.

Whether you’re:

• travelling in a train,
• staying at a hostel or
• eating food at a restaurant,

always be vigilant of your belongings. Do not easily trust strangers and leave your luggage unattended.

For example, if you’re staying at a hostel, always lock up your luggage to be on the safer side.

Also, never give in to people who ask for charity donations or offer you something for cheap. These people, more often than not, have the wrong intentions of making money from you.

As mentioned previously, these kinds of people are more common in commercial tourist destinations due to the tourist footfall they receive.

3. Never roam around in India late at night

I don’t need to stress this enough, but roaming alone late at night is a strict no, even if you’re a male traveller. As a tourist in an unfamiliar place in India, you’ll complicate your life.

Even if you think your place is safe, the following are some of the things that may happen depending on your area:

• animals may roam around at night (especially if you’re in the mountains)
• you may lose your way and not find help
• have unwarranted meetings with drunk people

There are plenty of other scenarios as well, but I hope you get my point.

Pro-tip: If you’re driving to a particular destination that is far away, try leaving early morning and reach your place before sunset.

4. Bargain with cab drivers and shopkeepers

One of the most critical skills you learn as a solo traveller in India is negotiating with people.

In India, especially in small towns and villages, you have to bargain with cab drivers and shopkeepers in flea markets to get yourself a reasonable rate.

It is one of the best ways of reducing costs while travelling alone in India.

Most of these shopkeepers and cab drivers will quote you an inflated price instead of the actual price, knowing that you’ll bargain.

You can reduce the cost by as much as 50%, especially when shopping for clothes and ornaments.

5. Keep your friends and family informed about your whereabouts

Always keep your friends or family informed about your whereabouts.

It may sound silly, but it accomplishes two things:

1. your loved ones know what you’re up to despite being far away.

2. they can trace you in case anything goes wrong.

If you’re a female solo traveller in India, it is essential because your close ones are more concerned about your safety than anyone else.

6. Use public transport whenever you can

To this date, I prefer using public transport rather than cabs or autos. When I say public transportation, I’m explicitly talking about travelling in buses and trains apart from other local vehicles for the public.

It not only helps me save costs but more importantly, it enables me to observe the local population and get some insights into their lives. It also helps me understand more about my destination than just being a guest for a few days.

For example, when I went to the starting point of the Neelakurinji trek in Munnar (Kerala), I hired a shared jeep used by the public. The locals of Munnar use it as a mode of transport to go between various villages.

I was not only able to see what these locals looked like but I also got to see their villages whenever they deboarded the jeep. I would not have observed these small things had I hired a cab or a commercial tour operator in Munnar.

It added to my experience and made my trip more engaging.

7. A ‘Hi’ or a smile is all it takes

It wasn’t easy for me to mingle with the other travellers I met during my initial solo travels as an introvert. I was shy and didn’t know how to interact with strangers.

And it wasn’t my fault either. From an early age, we’re told by our families not to interact with strangers in India.

However, all the friends I have made through my travel experiences have something in common.

We either started with a ‘Hi’ or a smile. That’s all it takes. After that, it is easy to keep the conversation going.

It would help if you broke that initial barrier in the same way. Trust me; if you do it, you’ll end up making some fantastic friends that may stay with you for a lifetime.

8. Use Couchsurfing apart from hostels

Hostels and homestays are the lifeblood of any solo traveller. You can save a lot of money by using these accommodations.

But you could save even more by making use of Couchsurfing.

Couchsurfing is a mix of hospitality and a networking platform wherein you stay with hosts for free. Consider it like Airbnb with no costs.

Apart from staying with hosts, you can also meet other solo travellers at your destination and even travel together with them. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Although Couchsurfing is present across all major cities and tourist destinations in India, it may not be available in villages and remote locations. But if it’s available at your destination, use it and see how your travels become more wholesome.

You can read more about Couchsurfing in this article .

9. Carry a power bank and keep your phone charged always

I’ve faced situations where there were power cuts in my homestay, or as I was travelling throughout the day, my phone’s battery got drained. Due to this, I couldn’t make essential calls on time, or I had to rely on someone else.

So whenever possible, I charge my power bank, phone, and DSLR, especially when the charge is below 30%, instead of waiting till the last moment.

Pro-tip: Whenever you stop for a break at a restaurant for food, charge your phone at the restaurant if it’s below 50%, especially if you’re on a long trip.

Also, use your power bank only in case of an emergency. Otherwise, always try to keep your phones and camera batteries fully charged.

We don’t realise the extra baggage we carry when we travel with our friends or family. However, when you start travelling solo, you’ll learn that any space in your luggage is a luxury.

Whenever you pack your bag(s) for solo travel in India, question yourself about every item you put inside the bag. It will help you prioritise the things you need and eliminate the ones you don’t.

It will come in handy when you have to travel long distances in India.

Pro-tip: If you’re carrying gadgets like a laptop, camera, GoPro etc., apart from your personal belongings like clothes and shoes, put your gadgets in one bag and your personal belongings in the other.

Which are the best places for solo travel in India?

I hate answering this question because, honestly, every place in India has its charm. As you keep travelling, you’ll realise that many places in India are more ideal for solo travel than what you’re made to believe online.

However, I can suggest 5 places when you’re just starting out travelling solo in India. These places are also highly safe and secure for solo travel for women.

Note: The following are some things you’ll observe in all these 5 places that will make your solo travel experience hassle-free:

• Cheap hostels and homestays
• Bike rentals at reasonable rates
• Opportunity to meet fellow solo travellers and backpackers

Given below are the 5 best places for solo trip in India that’ll help you kickstart your journey as a solo traveller:

Hampi is one of my favourite places to visit in India. And I genuinely mean it when I say it.

Nowhere in India would you see a landscape as surreal as Hampi. It feels as if you’ve been transported back in time.

Hampi is an ancient town in Karnataka made of ruins of ancient temples and monuments. It has a fascinating history behind it that is worth knowing even if you’re not a history lover.

What makes it even more interesting, especially for solo travellers, is a small island called Hippie Island neighbouring Hampi, where all the backpackers and solo travellers stay.

So you can enjoy the best of both worlds: chill at Hippie Island and enjoy the historical landmarks at Hampi.

Varkala is a beach town located on the outskirts of Trivandrum, Kerala. It is the only cliff beach in Kerala (meaning there are cliffs adjacent to the beach adjoining the Arabian Sea).

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll enjoy it even more. As Varkala is near the coast, you’ll get different varieties of seafood here, including crabs, prawns and fish.

In terms of activities, you can chill at the beach in the evening and even take a swim in the water.

There are plenty of shops in Varkala as well selling clothes, handicrafts and ornaments.

While you’re in Varkala, don’t forget to take in the splendid sunrise and sunset views from the cliffs.

I chose Gokarna over Goa because it is less commercialised and hence, quieter. If you’re someone who loves to spend time by the beach in a peaceful environment, Gokarna is your best bet .

Gokarna is a small temple town located along the northern coast of Karnataka. Like Varkala, you’ll find cliffs here from where you can get an aerial view of the Arabian Sea.

But unlike Varkala, you have different beaches here, each with its own vibe. Om Beach and Kudle Beach are the two most popular beaches in Gokarna apart from Gokarna Beach.

The Gokarna Beach trek, which starts at Om Beach and ends at Full Moon Beach, is among the best things to do here. It is a unique trek that takes you through a combination of forests and beaches.

4. Pondicherry/Auroville

Pondicherry is a small union territory located close to Chennai. Being a former French colony, you’ll find many colourful buildings designed in French architecture.

Apart from that, you can have mouthwatering food from French cuisine here. Baker Street is one place you shouldn’t miss if you want to try amazing French breakfasts in Pondicherry.

You can also go surfing and scuba diving in Pondicherry.

While Pondicherry is a great place to visit, I prefer Auroville if you’re staying for a long time.

Auroville is an adjoining area that’ll remind you of Hippie Island in terms of its vibe. It is the only place in India with no concept of politics, religion or money.

Lots of people from different nationalities have been residing here for years. You can also become a volunteer here and participate in various activities that happen every week.

Pushkar is a mystical temple town in Rajasthan that hosts a lot of devotees and tourists every year. It is one of the oldest and holiest towns in India.

The peaceful vibes here, combined with the aartis (Hindu ritual used in worship) held every evening at Pushkar Lake, make it a great place for solo travellers. The town is very laidback, with a beautiful landscape of the Aravalli Hills in the background.

As a solo traveller, you have different things to do in Pushkar. You can do a camel safari in the Thar desert, go for a sunrise/sunset trek nearby or have Israeli delicacies like falafel.

Pushkar Camel Fair is the highlight of this city, though. It is a week-long festival that takes place every year from October-November.

The whole city of Pushkar becomes vibrant and comes alive during this time. Locals trade their beautifully decorated camels, music shows take place, and magicians perform their tricks, among other events and exhibitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a woman travel alone in india.

Yes, India is safe for solo female travellers. I have met female solo travellers who have been travelling across India for quite some time.

In fact, over the last few years, there has been a steady increase in the number of solo female travellers in India .

Female travel bloggers like Taniya Khanijow, Kritika Goel and Radhika Nomllers have made a living through solo travels in India. And there are many more female bloggers pursuing this path.

Follow basic safety practices like avoiding going out late at night and keeping your loved ones informed about your whereabouts. Also, never accept any ‘free’ gifts or donation requests from strangers.

If you keep all these things in mind and trust your instincts well, you’ll be good to go.

How can I have a budget solo trip in India?

There are different ways to have a budget solo travel in India. Some of the common ones are:

Hitchhiking: Take a lift from a vehicle on the road to go from Place A to Place B.

Couchsurfing : Stay with your hosts for free in exchange for spending time with them.

Volunteering : Volunteer at hostels and resorts in exchange for free food and accommodation.

Staying at homestays and hostels: It is a great way to stay on a budget while getting a homely vibe and meeting other travellers.

Can you suggest the best places to travel alone in India?

You can start with the following budget-friendly solo travel destinations in India before exploring other destinations:

1. Varkala 2. Hampi 3. Pondicherry/Auroville 4. Gokarna 5. Pushkar

As these are small towns, you can cover them on foot, and if needed, you can hire two-wheelers for rent that are economical. Accommodation is also cheap as you’ll find lots of affordable hostels and homestays at these places.

How can I enjoy my first solo trip in India?

The best way to enjoy solo travel in India is to be open to meeting different kinds of people and sharing experiences with them. It is what makes solo travel fun.

Travel with other solo travellers you meet and make random plans with them.

Alternatively, book your travels with tour operators that conduct group travels across India. It is a great way to meet and travel with like-minded travellers from across the country without planning your trip.

Mix and match your travel destinations.

For example, if you travel to Ladakh, try going to North-East next. Much like the landscape, the people and culture are also different in these two regions. Hence, your travel experience will also differ.

Vary the kind of travel experiences you’re going for as well. For example, if you’re making a solo trip to Hampi , go for a trekking experience in the Western Ghats after that.

The whole idea is to experiment with different things. It helps you get out of your comfort zone, learn new things and keep an element of surprise alive at all times.

Planning your first solo trip may seem daunting as with any other experience you face for the first time in life. However, if you follow the steps given below, you’ll be able to plan your first solo trip with ease:

1. Choose your travel destination based on what you’re looking for. For example, if you want to spend time at a hill station in South India, you can opt for Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu) .

2. Get an idea about the places to visit/experiences at your destination. You can read travel blogs online or watch vlogs on Youtube to get an idea.

3. Check out the best places to eat at your destination. Have local food if possible to learn more about the cuisine at your destination.

4. Book your flight/train/bus. If booking a flight, ensure you do it one-two months in advance.

5. Book your accommodation, preferably a homestay or hostel. They will save you costs while also giving you a homely feel.

6. Pack your bags lightly and make a move for your destination. If you’re catching a flight, ensure you reach the airport two hours in advance.

7. Check in to your accommodation and figure out local transport. If you’re staying at a hostel, you could also rent a two-wheeler.

I have given you all the information you’ll need to start travelling solo in India based on my experience and knowledge.

To give you a recap of some of the essential highlights, we covered:

• what isn’t solo travel,
• why you should (and shouldn’t) travel solo in India,
• how to travel solo in India,
• and the best places for solo travel in India.

Feel free to go through this article multiple times whenever you need some clarity. It will help you on your quest to make the most of your solo travels in India.

Also, as I’ve mentioned multiple times already, your first few solo travels may not be comfortable or enjoyable enough. And that is perfectly fine. It was the same with me.

Contrarily, you may also realize that you’re not meant for solo travels.

You’ll discover which category you fall under only after you’ve had a few solo travel experiences under your belt. So don’t give up before that.

Solo travelling in India transformed me as a person, and I’m hopeful it will have some impact on you.

With that said, let me know if you have any questions down below. I’ll be happy to answer them.

Also, in case you feel I missed out on any point, let me know in the comments below!

Jerry quit his 9-5 job to become a digital nomad and travel the world. Through Framedventures, he helps people have experiential and immersive travel adventures across India. He has travelled to 15+ states/UTs in India so far. Besides travelling, he's also passionate about landscape photography. Connect with him on his social media channels to get his latest travel updates!

You May Also Like

18 Exciting Places To Visit In Andaman in 2022 (+Things To Do)

Top 15 Places To Visit In Meghalaya: A Unique Road Trip

11 Best Places To Visit In Araku Valley (+Vizag): A Hidden Gem

The blog is very well written provides such a great information about solo travel in India. Tarvelling alone is one of the great choice and enhances your personal growth. Thank you for sharing this great article

Thanks Alena! 🙂

Pilgrimage Tourism

Your insightful guide on solo travel in India is a valuable resource for beginners, offering practical tips and inspiring confidence for those embarking on the thrilling journey of exploring this diverse and vibrant country alone.

Thank you!:)

What an incredibly insightful and inspiring article! It is evident that your passion for solo travelling shines through every word, and the details and visuals you have shared are invaluable. The tips and advice you have shared are not only practical but also deeply motivating. From quitting 9-5 to travelling around the world, your journey is truly inspiring. You are an inspiration for those who want to embrace freedom and enjoy the gifts of travel.

Thank you for the kind words, Priyanshu!:)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Netherlands
• Travel Tips

Solo travel in India – All you need to know

From the majestic Taj Mahal to the spiritual Rishikesh, from holy cows to psytrance raves in Goa – India is the most diverse country I’ve ever visited. The north is completely different to the south and so are the people’s cultures and traditions. Solo travel in India can be challenging – especially female solo travel in India . I did it, for 2.5 months and I had the most impactful trip of my life. India is beautiful, colorful, and eventful. 

I’m sharing the seven most important safety tips for solo travel in India – which I wish I had known before – places to visit and places to avoid as a solo traveller in India.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of my links I will receive a small commission which helps me to maintain my site. This has no  extra cost for you and you will make my day!

Table of Contents

Safety tips for solo travel in India

When you google “safety in Delhi, India”, the content that shows up makes you think twice about going there. High crime rates, sexual assault, and extreme pollution – doesn’t sound like a place you’d want to visit, right?

Let me tell you one thing in advance: It’s not as bad as some people make it seem! Of course, there are some things to consider when traveling solo to India, but honestly, I felt very safe in most areas of India. The north of India, especially Delhi, was much more challenging for me than the south. People of the north are more conservative and culturally less open than people of the south.

Here are some tips on how to stay safe when traveling solo in India (especially in Delhi and the north).

Make Indian friends

It sounds trivial, but believe me when I say that making Indian friends was my life-saver on my solo trip in India. They told me how to behave, where to go, which areas to avoid, where to stay and how to avoid scams as a blond, European solo traveler.

And how the heck would you make Indian friends?

In India, the best way to make friends is by staying in hostels. It’s funny because in most countries, you’d only find foreign people in hostels. But India is different. Indian people love to travel within their own country. Most of the people in hostels are Indians from different parts of India. This helped me a lot in finding local friends and learning about India from them. Also, roaming around with Indians saves you from being approached from people in the streets.

Don't smile at men in the streets

I took me one week to realise that having a friendly facial expression and making eye contact with men is seen as flirting. Not only that, but they also see it as an invitation to start a conversation. 

Basically, if you smile at a man, he will think that you want him to talk to you. Knowing this earlier would have saved me a few uncomfortable situations. I’m a friendly person,  I smile at people when we cross paths or when our eyes meet in public, no matter which gender.

Once my Indian friend told me about the meaning in their culture, I started walking around with a resting bitch face and I avoided looking into people’s eyes – it made a big difference!

Before, I had always wondered why Indian women were so serious in the streets or on public transport. Whenever I smiled at a woman, they never smiled back – now I know why.

Important note: This goes only for men that are strangers. Men in the street or on public transport, for example. If it’s a friend or someone at your hostel, feel free to smile and laugh and be friendly!

Be harsh to men that bother you

I learned that Indian men can be very insisting. If you say “no” with a smile on your face, they will keep trying. They don’t take a “no” as a “no” as long as you say it in a friendly way.

Be rude. Be serious. Tell them to f*** off if someone is too insistent.

Cover your shoulders and knees

The less skin you show, the less attention you get. Covering your shoulders and knees and wearing lose clothes helps to avoid unwanted attention.

I remember a day in Delhi with 32°C degrees and I was sweating in my jumper. Feeling like I was in a safe place, I took of my jumper, leaving me with a slightly revealing tank top. The moment I took off my jumper, all eyes were on me. I felt like an alien (even more than before). One thing to know about India is that people love to stare. If you look different to them, they will not take their eyes off you, no shame. All the staring made me feel super unconfortable. Showing skin skyrockets the stares, so it’s up to you how much staring you can take.

Avoid going out alone at night

During my first few days in India, I always made sure to be back at my hostel before it got dark. Better be safe than sorry.  Later on, once I had made some Indian friends and got a better feeling for the area, I did go out late, too.

In the end it’s always about your gut feeling. If you do go out at night, always move with Uber and don’t walk alone in the streets. Ideally share your location with a friend and follow the map to see if your driver is going the right way. Be sure to ask a local where to go and how to stay safe.

Start with South India

If you have enough time to visit the north and the south of India, I suggest visiting the south first.  South India is easy to travel. People are more open-minded, they are used to tourists and it generally feels more comfortable to be a foreigner in the south. South India will help you to get adjusted to the culture and prepare you for the more traditional North India.  The north might give you a bigger culture shock.

Get a local SIM card

Getting a local SIM card with data makes your life in India much easier. Being able to call an Uber from every place and being able to check on Google Maps where you’re going is priceless.

Get a prepaid SIM card at the airport when you arrive to India. I recommend using Airtel. They have a good network and they offer ideal packages for tourists.

Best places for solo travel in India

The best places for solo travel in India are usually areas that attract a high number of foreign tourists. If there are lots of other foreigners, you stand out less and people don’t bother you as much as in other places.

My personal top three places for solo travel in India are Taj Mahal in Agra, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand and Palolem in South Goa.

Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal, one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World, is a must when visiting India. This beautiful architectural masterpiece is located in Agra, only a few hours from Delhi.

Even though the area around Taj Mahal seems more like a slum where people live in poor conditions, I felt safe in Agra. Lots of tourists travel to Agra to visit Taj Mahal, so it’s an ideal place for solo travel in India.

The best way to visit Taj Mahal is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Check out my full guide on watching the sunrise at Taj Mahal .

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is known as the world’s yoga capital and it attracts lots of yogi’s and practitioners from all around the globe. The local people of Rishikesh are used to tourists and all the infrastructure makes it a comfortable place for solo travel in India.

I felt very safe in Rishikesh, and unlike in some other places, people stared less. If you consider visiting Rishikesh, read through my post of the best things to do in Rishikesh .

Palolem, South Goa

Palolem is one of my favorite places in India. If you seek peace, tranquility and beach life, Palolem is the perfect place for you.

When I arrived to Goa after traveling through the northern part of India, I felt like weight was taken off my shoulders. Goa is different to the rest of India. It’s much more liberal, culturally open and westernized.

I felt so free, I didn’t have to worry about what to wear and how to behave. I could finally smile at people again without making them think I’m flirting.

Palolem is a great place for solo travelers, as there’s a good backpacker community and several great hostels.

Places to avoid for solo travel in India

Mahipalpur, delhi.

There is only one single area where I felt absolutely unsafe and that was “Mahipalpur” near the airport in Delhi. If it hadn’t been 3 am when I arrived there, I would have left immediately. I stayed im Mahipalpur because my plane landed late at night and there were some affordable hotels with good reviews ( definitely fake reviews ).

The area was shady and the people were even shadier. After I checked into my disgusting room, which was totally different from the pictures, I got a call from the man at the front desk asking if I wanted a full body massage – at 3 AM ( eww! ). I triple-locked my door and tried to sleep.

Long story short: Don’t stay in Mahipalpur!

Other than that, of the places that I visited, there’s not a single one I would avoid as a solo traveler in India. There will definitely be uncomfortable moments and challenging situations, but they are not necessarily connected to a specific place or area.

Old Delhi, Delhi (on day one)

On my first day in India, I visited Old Delhi by myself. Later on, my local friends told me I was crazy for doing that. Old Delhi is pure chaos. It’s crowded, it’s smelly, it’s dirty, it’s easy to get lost in the narrow pathways. It’s the most challenging place I visited iduring my 2.5 months in India, and I did it on day one.

I don’t even remember how many people asked me for a selfie. At some point they started standing in line for a selfie with me. Some people were even ready to pay me money for a selfie with me. I have never experienced anything like that to this extent. Apparently, some of them have never seen a white person before .

Funnily, this happened only to me. I have an Austrian male friend who visited Old Delhi by himself and he never got asked for a selfie. Maybe it’s because I’m blond and a girl?

And I don’t even want to get started with how many local people tried so sell me a tuk tuk tour or other things. 

“Miss, where are you going?”

“Miss, can I help you?”

“Miss, what are you looking for?”

“Miss, tuk tuk?”

“Excuse me miss, one selfie please?”

If you’re brave (or simply crazy like me) and up for a challenge, make your way through Old Delhi by yourself.

Otherwise, I would recommend to either save Old Delhi for later, when you’re already more familiar with Indian culture, or to visit Old Delhi with a second person (ideally a local person who can show you around). Being with someone who knows the place makes Old Delhi way less challenging and you become less of a target for local people.

Get your Guide  offers lots of different guided tours through Old Delhi:

Is solo travel in India safe?

Most of the time, I felt completely safe traveling solo through India . I’m sorry if I have made it sound as if Indians were horrible people – they are definitely not! The safety tips are necessary to help you get used to the culture and to manage challenging situations. Not all Indian men will try to scam you or flirt with you.

Generally,  Indians are some of the most authentic, kind, generous, respectful, humble and open-hearted people I met on all my travels .

People in the streets do stare and they do bother you as a foreigner, but in the end, they just see an opportunity to earn money for their families, to make a living. As much as it annoyed me when people tried to sell me something, I do understand their need. Many of them live with the bare minimum.

In India, there’s a big societal gap in terms of education, lifestyle and financial resources between the people you meet privately, in a hostel for example, and the people you meet in the streets in public.

People who can afford to travel and live a more developed life usually have a more westernized mindset. Whereas the part of the population that is less educated and living a more traditional life might not know how to behave toward a foreign woman. 

I have met the most amazing people during my time in India and I’m endlessly grateful for all the Indian friend’s I’ve made. Solo travel in India is an incredible adventure that gives you the chance to connect with the most beautiful souls if you allow it.

Have you ever done a solo trip to India? What do you think about my safety tips for solo travel in India? Do you have any other tips or recommendations for solo travelers in India?

I would love to hear your opinion in the comments!

Sharing is caring!

a world of destinations

April 2, 2023

Asia , Destinations , India

Asia , female solo travel , India , solo travel

April 9, 2023 at 1:53 am

I have always wanted to visit India, but I was worried about doing it solo. I also loved your tip about making Indian friends. Having local friends can definitely help so much. I found that to be true in Morocco.

April 9, 2023 at 12:06 pm

Having local friends is the best for solo trips – especially for such culturally different countries 🙂 I can imagine that it was helpful in Morocco too!

April 9, 2023 at 5:15 am

Wow. Every female traveller, whether solo or not, should read your blog before heading to India. It’s full of great tips and information on India that everyone should be aware of. Thanks for sharing.

April 9, 2023 at 12:07 pm

Thanks for your comment, I hope I can help some solo travelers with these tips.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Hi!   I’m Maria, an outdoor-active traveler who seeks to go off the beaten track to discover hidden gems.   Most of the time you’ll find me exploring small beach towns or untouched places in the mountains to connect with nature. My goal is to inspire others to go out of their comfort zone and explore this beautiful planet.   During the creation of this blog, uncountable cups of coffee were consumed. If my blog is an inspiration for you in any way, I would appreciate your support by buying me a cup of coffee.   Happy traveling!

Buy Me a Coffee

Privacy Policy

© 2024 a world of destinations — Powered by WordPress

Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑

Honeymoon Bug

Choose Your Dream Honeymoon Destinations Here

29 Best Places for Solo Trip in India for the Most Liberating & Life-Changing Experience

“ Those who fly alone have the strongest wings ”. Similarly, those who travel alone and awake in a quite new town most often are the ones who’re enjoying the joy of travel. If you also want to come out of your comfort zone and check your limits, we bring to you the 29 best places for a solo trip in India, from east to west to north to south India. In addition, you can jump straight to the following pointers as well:

29 Best Places for Solo Trip in India

• Best beach destination for solo travel in India
• Best wildlife destinations for solo travel in India
• Best camping destinations for solo travel in India

Best hill stations in India for a solo trip

Best places in india for adventure solo trip india.

• Best spiritual places in India for a solo trip 

However, if you want to gain a profound understanding of solo travel in India as a tourist, scroll on! There’s a lot more to know! Let’s get started!

Is India safe for solo travel?

Yes, India is a safe country to travel to solo or in a group. All you have to do is be a responsible traveler. This means one should roam outside at suitable hours when the public can also be seen wandering outside. One must take precautions to avoid any hassle during a solo trip to India . For instance, female travelers should avoid wandering on the streets alone. Most importantly, always book taxis in India from reliable cab operators. And yes, foreigners in India are always held in high regard by the locals here. That’s Indian hospitality for you!

Best Beach Destination for Solo Travel in India

·  Best Time to Visit: October to March

Gokarna is one of the best places for a solo trip in India. The calmness and tranquility in Gokarna Beaches attract innumerable tourists every year. From bubbling waves to clean blue water, from sandy beaches to tall palm trees, here you will find everything for a serene backdrop. The Gokarna Beaches are perfect for tourists who want to unclench and rejuvenate during their holidays. Things to do on the beaches of Gokarna include trekking, banana boat rides, parasailing, and snorkeling.

2. Pondicherry

For those who are looking for the best places to go for solo trip in India, Pondicherry could be the go-to destination. The place offers the perfect setting for adventure enthusiasts and sightseers. Here, you will find shimmering waters and pristine golden sands. The stunning seashells, crystal-clear waters, and sun-kissed shores of Pondicherry beaches will leave you awe-struck! You should enjoy the cuisines and sightsee the unspoiled beauty of the virgin beaches when in Pondicherry.

22 Beach Resorts in Pondicherry | 15 Best Places to Visit in Pondicherry

·  Best Time to Visit: September to March

Kerala’s beaches offer remarkable natural beauty amidst a peaceful respite. Squeezed between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, Kerala is one of the best destinations for a solo holiday in south India . A 360-mile coastline complements it. The picturesque beaches all along Kerala’s western line form the ideal destination for relaxation. Sea, Sand, and Sunset – capture all three in your cameras when traveling to Kerala beaches!

·  Best Time to Visit: November to February

Goa is among the best tourist destinations in India for its enchanting beaches. Tourists love to plan a solo vacation to Goa and appease in the fun destination of sun, sand, and surf! Relax on Goa’s pristine beaches, satisfy your adventure appetite by trying the water sports, and snap pictures of the sandy shores. The tranquil settings of the beautiful beaches in Goa will elevate your mood and put you in a state of blissful calmness.

·  Best Time to Visit: October to February

Mumbai is a coastal town, and it boasts of its gorgeous and serene beaches. The overwhelming serenity offered by beaches in Mumbai is enough to make you feel blessed. Tourists can flock to Mumbai and watch the mount of the waves crashing onto the shores. Listen to the gentle whispers of the cool breeze and lose yourself in the tranquil space. Whether you’re planning to spend a cozy and calm vacation on the beautiful beach of Alibaug or you want to indulge in water sports at Diveagar, Mumbai has to offer it all to vacationers!

Best Wildlife Destinations for Solo Travel in India

1. ranthambore national park.

·  Best month to visit: October to March

·  Safari ticket price: 750 INR (approx.) per person

·  Opening timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm

Ranthambore National Park is one of the perfect places for solo travel in India. The park is home to exotic fauna and flora. Here, tourists love exploring the unique geographical magnificence. The Aravali and Vindhya Ranges primarily influence Ranthambore’s setting. Henceforth, you will find the park lush, green, and lively. This National Park is best known for its natural imprints and tigers. Visitors to Ranthambore National Park can see Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, langur monkeys, sambar deer, hyenas, and much more.

4 Nights 5 Days Rajasthan Wildlife Tour

2. Hemis National Park

·  Best months to visit: May and October

·  Safari ticket price(approx.): INR 20 (for Indians) & INR 100 (for foreigners)

·  Opening timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Hemis National Park is the largest Indian National Park. Dotted with dry forests, with fir and covered in snow, this park offers once in a lifetime experience for tourists. The beguiling vegetation & wildlife, the underlying fauna, and the plant species in the park form a perfect spot for strolling. When strolling in and around Hemis Park, you will be amazed to find some rare and endangered medicinal plants. The park is noted for its rich wildlife and is home to 16 mammal species and 73 bird species.

3. Periyar National Park

·  Best month to visit: October to June

·  Safari ticket price: INR 500 (approx.) per person

·  Opening timings: 6:00 am to 3:00 pm

Located alongside the southern tip of Kerala , Periyar National Park is one of India’s best places for a solo trip in India. Tourists explore the jungle cruise and try hiking, trekking, and excursion. This National Park stretches on for around 500 square miles. The reposeful river cruise, the dense hilly forests, and the lush scenery make the park appear beautiful. From spotting the herd of elephants, from ferrying on the boat to bamboo rafting, you will only have a variety of things to do in Periyar National Park.

4. Gir National Park

·   Best month to visit: December to March

·  Safari ticket price: INR 75 (for Indians) & INR 100 (for Foreigners)

·  Opening timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm & 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Gir National Park is a rare tourist spot to visit when in Gujrat . This place forms the last home of the resistless Asiatic Lions in India. When you are in this sanctuary, spot the Asiatic Lions roaming freely. Tourists who are also wildlife enthusiasts visit the National Park to watch bird species and partake in thriller activities like electric bike tours, jeep safaris, lion safaris, etc. The beauty and adventures of Gir National Park will only let you revisit the park all over again!

5. Sundarban National Park

·  Best month to visit: November to February

·  Opening timings: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm

Talking about the top destinations for your solo trip to India, do include Sundarban National Park. This park offers a flawless and riveting environment for visitors. Pristine backwaters, tributaries, waterways, and islands make Sundarbans the most alluring National Park of India . Tourists from all over the world come to Sundarbans to adventure in the world’s most unique and large mangrove ecosystems. Here, you can explore various species like saltwater crocodiles, hawksbill turtles, river dolphins, Bengal tigers, and many more.

Best Camping Destinations for Solo Travel in India

1. pangong tso lake in ladakh.

·  Best time to visit: May to September

·  Camping starts at: INR 1500 to INR 2000 (approx.) per person

Pangong Tso Lake is one of the best places for a solo trip in north India. One look at the lake will mesmerize you, such as its beauty. The breathtaking saline body of water appears much more splendid and charming than the beaches. The enchanting Pangong Tso Lake is dotted with high mountains and is set at around 4350 meters. The chilly air around Pangong Tso Lake adds to the serenity of the environment. Camping near this lake would be the best experience of your life.

2. Kasol in Himachal Pradesh

·  Best time to visit: October to June

·  Camping starts at: INR 150 to INR 300 (approx.)

Kasol is popularly known as the “ Amsterdam of India ” For those waiting to adventure like a wanderer and find peace within, visit Kasol . Camping by the riverside amidst the lush green Pine trees in Kasol is a lifetime experience! You can even camp with friends and family near the banks of river Parvati in Kasol. This campsite offers a majestic view of the Himalayan mountains. Tourists can also hike to the Chalal village and participate in games like basketball, badminton, cricket, etc. A warm bonfire session under the dark cozy night and the bright moon is worth a trip!

3. Coorg in Karnataka

·  Best time to visit: October to March

·  Camping starts at: INR 3,800 (for three days and two nights)

Every spot in Coorg is best for camping. Coorg is known as the Scotland of India because it offers marvelous views for tourists who camp here. Being a wonderful hill station, Coorg has become one the best places in India that are best for a solo trip. Madikeri, Kushalnagar, and Dubare Elephant Camp are the best spots for camping in Coorg. This place has to offer you innumerable sports activities. You will return home with lots of memories in your mind from Croog. Photography lovers must carry cameras to capture the marvels of mother nature! Try trekking, playing volleyball, river rafting , and bird watching.

4. Munnar in Kerala

·  Best time to visit: September to March

·  Camping starts at: INR 1,000 to INR 2,400

Munnar is in Kerala and forms one of the best places for a solo trips in India . The experience of camping in Munnar is reviving and soul-soothing! Tourists set camps amidst the vicious clouds and sublime views. Munnar is best known for hypnotizing the scenic beauty of nature. If you are an adventure lover, try camping in Munnar with recreational activities such as ziplining, rappelling, trailing, trekking, and jungle safari. The blissful ambiance surrounding the campsites will fill your mind and soul with ultimate joy!

Best Resorts in Munnar | Things to do in Munnar

5. Sakleshpur

·  Best time to visit: October to March

·  Camping starts at: Approx. INR 1,100 to 1,350 (2 nights & 1 day)

Bordered by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, Sakleshpur is among the best places in India for a solo trip. It forms a perfect landscape to spend an eternal vacation with family and friends. Tourists flock to Sakleshpur to experience the fantastic camping experience amidst imposing hills and rich biodiversity. You can carry out several thrilling activities like mountain trekking, nature walking, birdwatching, and off-road jeep safari. Take advantage of spending a fun-filled day with your friends at Sakleshpur. The stunning sunrise and sunset views from the camping spots are absolute bliss!

1. Mcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh

A suburb of Dharamshala and is often replicated as “ Little Lhasa ” or “ Dhasa ” because of its large population of Tibetan, McleodGanj has many mediation centers. As a person of corporate life, if you want to detox, you can indulge in adventure sports like trekking, food, and shopping hopping. Also, the Bhagsu Falls is a sight to behold if you are a photographer. Don’t forget to collect the Tibetan handicrafts, and carpets to pack for your home. And yes, you won’t mind stargazing from your campsite. Would you?

Best time to visit: March to June

Days enough: At least 4-5 days (approx.)

2. Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh

Apart from Ladakh, Spiti Valley is also famous for mountainous biking expeditions. The still blue lakes and high-altitude mountain passes of Spiti Valley are made for bikers. You must embark on a biking trip to Spiti Valley or join a group of travelers from Manali. Obviously, Spiti Valley is completely safe for backpackers, even for girls. From river rafting to monastery hopping, you won’t fall short of things to do in Spiti Valley.

3. Nubra Valley in Ladakh

Want to witness Bactrian camels? Plan your excursion to Nubra Valley in Ladakh. This place catches the enthusiasm of tourists because of its high-height desert land. Although, a cold desert so expect to click selfies amidst the white sand dunes. The ATV rides are a big hit for solo travelers. Camping can also be enjoyed at Nubra Valley. The picture does not do justice to Nubra Valley so better if you plan your itinerary to Nubra Valley .

4. Rishikesh in Uttarakhand

If you live in and around Delhi looking for a perfect weekend trip, bookmark Rishikesh. It is one of the best places for a solo trip in north India within 300 km. There are meditation and yoga centers. Most often, Rishikesh is touted as the yoga capital of India. Plus, the presence of river rafting here, camping, and Aarti at the Ganges is what makes Rishikesh a must-visit place on a solo trip to north India .

5. Yercaud in Tamil Nadu

Yercaud is special for solo travelers in south India because of the lush trails and scenic roads for the road trip. The 32 km loop road is perfect for mountain biking expeditions. The lush greenery of Silk Farm and Rose Garden is a good spot for solo travelers to sit with a book in hand while getting close to the greenery. If you want to recharge from the bustling life of Chennai, consider a trip to Yercaud as it is one of the best places for a solo trip in south India.

Days enough: At least 3-4 days (approx.)

1. Manali in Himachal Pradesh

You don’t need to travel far from Delhi to enjoy adventure sports. Slice your 2-3 days on weekend for a trip to Manali for camping , river rafting , ziplining, angling, and trekking. Enjoy solidarity and seclusion in Manali and sit next to the river streams and listen to your favorite music. Undoubtedly, Manali in Himachal is a traveler’s favorite choice for solo travel. For those who want to unlock the fun of paragliding in North India, the scenic Himalayas of Manali are an ideal retreat for them. And yes, in winter, skiing is one of the top adventure sports in Manali.

2. Tirthan Valley in Himachal Pradesh

There is paradise unexplored in Himachal Pradesh which is not much on the touristy radar but should be because of all legit reasons. Tirthan Valley is the doorway to the UNESCO World HERITAGE Site of Great Himalayan National Park. It is famous for its tranquil cafes, wildlife sanctuary, and its scientific Himalayan beauty. Tirthan Valley is well connected to the roads from DELHI NCR so there’s no hassle of planning a weekend trip to Tirthan Valley .

Days enough: At least 2-4 days (approx.)

3. Kasol in Himachal Pradesh

Planning a solo trip to the hills without breaking the banks? Switch to Kasol which is also called the Mini Israel of India . Kasol is one the way to Bhuntar and Manikaran and one could reach Kasol on an overnight journey from Delhi. In this Himalayan hotspot for backpackers, you will see funky hair stylists at cheap rates. Don’t forget to take 15 minutes (approx.) walk to Chalal via a cable-supported bridge on the other side of Parvati Valley. And yes, the high-grade Malana cream is what makes Kasol the absolute stoner’s paradise.

Days enough: At least 4-6 days (approx.)

4. Pushkar in Rajasthan

Mysticism, religious fervor, and magnetism are what perfectly describes the small and enticing town of Pushkar. Just a short weekend drive away from Delhi and Gurgaon, Pushkar in Rajasthan is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage town that is also famous for hosting the annual camel fair every year in August. If you want to raise up your Instagram photography game, let Honeymoon Bug ease your stress of booking tickets to the Pushkar Camel Fair. From ziplining to desert safari to a hot air balloon ride, you can do a lot as a solo traveler in Pushkar .

5. Shillong in Meghalaya in North East India

This hill station in northeast India is also the capital of Meghalaya state. The lush green manicured gardens, trekking trails, and photogenic waterfalls of Shillong are very famous. Unknown to many, Shillong is also touted as the Scotland of the East. If you live in and around Guwahati and are looking for a short weekend drive solo trip experience, Shillong could be one of the best destinations for your solo trip to northeast India . When you are in the town, indulge in shopping at the Police Bazar.

Best spiritual & historical places in India for a solo trip 

1. char dham yatra in uttarakhand.

Char Dham Yatra is one of the famous religious circuits that devotees visit in Uttarakhand. It is said that one achieves salvation and Moksha upon touring the four holy sites in this religious circuit. Plan a well-guided solo excursion to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath , and Badrinath . These holy towns are nestled high in the Himalayas and you need to complete your registration before you embark on the Char Dham Yatra. Without a doubt, Char Dham Yatra should be on your solo travel bucket list itinerary if you practice Hinduism.

2. Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho is a popular tourist destination in India for solo travelers . According to the historic lens, this place has the country’s largest medieval Hindu and Jain temples. What’s more astonishing is the erotic sculptures built on the temple walls. Take time to witness the stunning nagara style culture that graces the temple design. Did you know the Khajuraho group of temples is labeled as a heritage site by UNESCO? If you live in and around Jhansi, don’t miss to plan a solo trip vacation to Khajuraho .

3. Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh

Up high in the hills of Arunachal Pradesh is Tawang Monastery at 3,048 m elevation. Of course, you need strong endurance to reach such an altitude. But if you want to challenge your adrenaline alone in quest of the best places for solo travel in northeastern India . Tawang Monastery is a good idea for spiritual buffs as it is the 2nd oldest monastery in Asia. The surroundings of Tawang Monastery are pictures and you can spend time with monks and learn the absolute way to lead life. But be mindful to respect the community.

4. Thiksey Monastery in Ladakh

Located on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley, Thiksey Monastery holds a striking resemblance to the Potala Palace in Tibet. Take time to climb the top floor of the monastery to sit in the prayer room with monks. Just spend 45-60 minutes at Thiksey Monastery in Ladakh as a solo traveler and we bet you will feel fulfilled as a history-loving traveler.

Why Should One Travel to Destinations for Solo Trip to India?

Raise your hands if you want to reconnect with yourself at the backwaters , hill stations , or some beach resorts with private beach access. Or you would want to develop resilience and independence. Solo travel in India is all about meeting new people and enjoying Indian hospitality to the fullest, from east to west to north to south India.

Akshay Negi

Akshay Negi is a head word nerd at Honeymoon Bug and is amongst the rarest breed of copywriters. Since 2017, he has helped launch several successful brands to write high-converting sales copy. Akshay takes the Nobel task of channeling your brand voice into WORDS that pay by relaying the story in the most persuasive, engaging and gripping way. Today, he’s on the mission to humanize the brands with nothing but powerful and precise wording.

See author's posts

• Tribal Places
• Hill Stations
• Treks of India
• Tips for travel

The idea of a solo trip to India seems fantastic. The freedom you get when travelling by yourself can scarcely be described. Pack your bags, get going, and visit a place as it was intended to be seen. You’ve always wanted to go on a solo trip to explore and learn more about different areas, whether hiking in Manali , seeing forts in Udaipur, or going island hopping in Goa. To maximise your unique adventure, a solo trip in India allows you to choose a trip plan customised to your interests and preferences. This kind of holiday offers a chance for introspection and personal reflection, making it a great choice for people who wish to look inward.

Solo Backpacking in India

Backpacking is a European concept that is quite new in India. It means to travel in a manner that saves more money and is sustainable – stay in less expensive places, spend less, and carry your belongings in a single backpack.

Backpacking is a sustainable travel option. It helps you be aware of how much you’re littering so you can help conserve the environment. Public transport is used to commute around, which further helps reduce the carbon footprint.

If you wish to solo trip in India, backpacking is a great option for the Earth and your pocket!

15 Top Solo Trip Destinations in India

1. Explore the Pink City of Jaipur

With Delhi and Agra, Jaipur is a corner of the renowned Golden Triangle, sometimes called the Pink City. It is a beautiful combination of the old and the new. It was formerly a region of Rajput kingdoms and is a popular destination for female tourists. Spend 2-3 days in Jaipur, easily accessible by rail and air, and select from various accommodations at backpacker hostels.

You can tour the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Bapu Bazaar, Nahargarh Fort and more as you relish the delicious Rajasthani cuisine consisting of kachoris, samosas, daal baati churma and more. Student discounts at these sites are also available. The metro and e-rickshaws are feasible travel options.

2. Ladakh – An Enthralling Bike Trip

Although not a backpacker’s favourite location due to the expenses incurred, Leh Ladakh is a popular destination for solo travellers. A journey to Leh Ladakh allows visitors to see some of the most magnificent landscapes in the world. It is known for its turquoise lakes and steep slopes. The options for adventure are boundless, whether you’re hiking through the landscape or riding along the roads. You can also plan a bike trip to Leh Ladakh and have the time there!

3. Relish the Scenic Beauty of Manali 

Manali feels like a scene out of a storybook, with its peaceful fusion of history and technology, pine trees, and gushing river. Visitors may view the splendour of the Lossar Festival, which celebrates the Tibetan New Year, in February. It serves as a gateway to Spiti and Leh. Manali offers it all, whether you’re inclined to temples, hot springs, monasteries, or German bakeries. Plan a 5 to 6-day solo trip in India here. It is reachable by aeroplane to Bhuntar or by picturesque roads.

4. Have Tea at the Many Gardens in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, which lies 2,050 metres above sea level and exudes breathtaking beauty, is a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors. The old-world charm and experience of these places’ jaw-dropping locations are unmatched. It is dotted with churches, houses built in the colonial style, and several tea farms. The third-highest mountain in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga, may be seen in awe from this location. This beautiful hill town is one of India’s greatest gems. The Darjeeling Tour is one of the most popular tours for lone travellers who want to see North-East India.

5. Relax by the Beaches at Gokarna

Gokarna offers an outstanding beach experience. Beyond being a temple town, it has busy beaches and bonfire evenings. Dabolim in Goa is the closest airport and may be visited between October and March. It is reachable by bus or rail. You can also enjoy bioluminescence at the beaches here if you’re lucky!

6. Kasol – Best Place for a Solo Trip in India

Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

12 Best Places to Visit in India for Solo Travellers

When planning a trip to India, it can be difficult to know which places you should visit. From bucket-list sights like the Taj Mahal to the popular forts of Rajasthan to the beach towns along the south coast, India has something for everyone. However, as a solo traveller, or even a first-time traveller to India, you might be wondering what places might be better for you to add to your itinerary.

I’ve put together this roundup of the best places to visit in India for solo travellers, after having spent nearly a year over several trips there as a solo traveller myself. Some of the big bucket list sights and intense cities in India can be quite overwhelming. For this reason, you won’t find popular places like Agra and Jaipur in this blog post.

Instead, it’s more about the laidback towns with friendly people, backpacker community hubs and mountain escapes that can make for a more enjoyable and rewarding experience. So, here are my favourite places to head in India as a solo traveller.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

What Makes a Place Ideal for Solo Travellers

As a solo traveller, you often search for different things than regular tourists. You look for backpacker hangouts where you can meet other people and relaxing places to chill out and explore the local culture. You might also be looking for an authentic experience, a real adventure, or something a little out of the ordinary. While at the same time, solo travellers also like to have easy transport connections, and a certain level of comfort too.

I’ve put together this list of 12 destinations for solo travellers in India based on the following features:  their popularity with other travellers, ease of transport connections, a certain level of comfort and a more relaxed vibe. I know that being a solo traveller in India can be daunting and overwhelming, but if you add these places to your itinerary, you’ll quickly realise that it’s one of the most fascinating, beautiful and compelling countries in the world. 

This list also offers some great places to visit for  first-time travellers  to India. Many of these destinations offer the perfect introduction to the subcontinent without the overwhelming chaos that you might find in some of India’s big cities like Delhi and Jaipur.

I’ve also included various destinations in different parts of India, so no matter whether you’re planning a North India itinerary or a South India trip, you’ll find places below to explore.

Prefer to book a small group tour of India? Check out G Adventures 15-Day Essential India or 28-Day India Encompassed Delhi to Kochi

Best Places in South India for Solo Travellers

South India is the more laidback and relaxed part of the subcontinent. While Rajasthan and the intense northern half gets most of the tourists, it’s South India which quickly becomes a traveller’s favourite.

The food is delicious, the people are more progressive and open and places are much less crowded and intense. Here’s where I suggest you head in South India as a solo traveller:

Kochi or Cochin is a major city on the southwest coast of India in the state of Kerala. It has been a trading port since 1341 with merchants from Asia, Arabia and Europe coming to the historic district now known as Fort Kochi. 

It’s known for its distinct Dutch, Portuguese and British colonial architecture and relaxed seaside atmosphere. It’s a rather trendy place with art galleries, heritage buildings, upscale eateries and boutique stores. Although, at the same time, you can watch local fishermen bringing in the daily catch by the old Chinese fishing nets and pick up a cheap fish curry at a street stall. 

It also serves as a jumping off point for travellers wanting to explore Kerala’s famous backwaters . The beautiful and lush canals of Kerala are best seen on a boat tour which can easily be arranged in Kochi.

Why is Kochi Perfect for Solo Travellers in India?

Kochi, especially Fort Kochi, is one of my favourite places to recommend to  first-time travellers to India as well as  solo female travellers . Its relaxing vibe is perfect for those who want to avoid the chaotic cities further north in India.

The people of Kerala are also known to have more open and liberal views and female travellers generally have a more relaxing time there. If you’re planning a trip to India and wondering where to start for your first time to India, Kochi is a great option.

Where to Stay in Fort Kochi

Bunk House Hostel | Perfectly located int he heart of Fort Kochi, this hostel is a popular choice amongst solo backpackers. They offer dorms (including a female only dorm) and private rooms, plus a big shared lounge for everyone to enjoy. Prices start from 500 INR (AU$10) per night. Check availability here .

Bastian Homestay | If you’re willing to spend a bit more, this highly reviewed guesthouse is just a short walk from Vasco Da Gama Square. With basic double rooms including AC, you can expect to pay around 1500 INR (AU$30) per night. Check availability here .

The Fort Bungalow | Located just 500m from Fort Cochin beach, this beautiful colonial building has been turned into an upscale boutique guesthouse with double rooms decorated in traditional Keralan decor. Prices start from 4000 INR (AU$80). Check availability here .

Varkala is a pretty coastal town in the state of Kerala. It’s perched on the edge of red cliffs covered in picturesque palms and surrounded by white sand beaches . Its beautiful setting has led to its emergence as a traveller favourite in South India with cafes, guesthouses and shops all catering for the backpacker crowd.

It’s also a hub for yoga enthusiasts, and is home to some of Kerala’s best yoga ashrams and meditation schools . Many people visit Varkala and end up staying for weeks rather than days. 

Why is Varkala Perfect for Solo Travellers in India?

Varkala is well established on the travelling route in South India making it super easy to meet people and have a comfortable stay. It’s popular but it’s not as hyped as Goa further north, making it a nice  alternative for a beach holiday . The local people are also very chill – you can never be too overwhelmed in Varkala. So, whether you’re visiting India for the first time or you want a breezy solo trip, Varkala is a great option to add to your South India itinerary. 

Where to Stay in Varkala

The Lost Hostels – Helipad | By far the most popular hostel in Varkala, The Lost Hostels is located right near the beach. It’s always got a great atmosphere, with a large outdoor seating area and garden. Prices start from 700 INR (AU$14) per night for a dorm. Check availability here .

Baba Luru’s | More of a homestay vibe, this small guesthouse is back from the beach, but in a quiet location surrounded by nature and away from hustle and bustle. They have a femalre dorm or cosy double rooms. Prices start from 1000 INR (AU$20) per night. Check availability here .

Casa Eva Luna Ayuryoga Retreat | Located between the main town and the beach, this yoga retreat is a nice and homely place. The staff are extremely helpful and welcoming, it has an outdoor pool to cool off, and with affordable wellness programs available to guests. Prices start from 2600 INR (AU$50) per night. Check availability here .

Hampi is an ancient city in Karnataka state. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site of numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire, which peaked in the 14 th  century. The ruins are certainly one of the most famous and more beautiful of India’s archaeological sites and are widely considered one of the must-visit places in India. 

It’s not only the ruins that attract travellers though. The surrounding landscape is characterised by strewn boulders that attract rock climbers and the vast green patty fields make a beautiful setting for golden sunsets that attract musicians and backpackers for nightly jam sessions with a view. It’s one of the highlights of South India and is a must-visit for most travellers.

Why is Hampi an Ideal Destination in India for Solo Travellers?

Hampi has become a real backpacker hangout. The village of Hampi has countless small guesthouses, cafes and handicraft shops. It attracts an interesting crowd with musicians, hippies and backpackers all coming together to give it a very laidback vibe that is perfect for exploring all day long and watching the sunset together in the evening.

Due to its popularity, it’s also well serviced by night buses from other popular places like Goa. This makes it one of the best places to visit in India for solo travellers.

Where to Stay in Hampi

Hearthspace Hampi | Located north of Hampi, this basic hostel is a great base to explore the area from. The owner is super lovely and well help you plan your trip to Hampi. They offer dorm beds from 500 INR (AU$10) per night. Check availability here .

Leo Wooden Resorts | For a bit more luxury, this resort is away from the main town but a secluded haven with an outdoor pool, garden, restaurant and bar. They offer glamping tents and wooden chalets from 5000 INR (AU$100) per night. Check availability here .

I would usually protest at adding a destination like Goa to this kind of a blog post, but it’s still possible to do Goa right. Goa is a small state on the west coast of India that has a strong Portuguese and Christian heritage that makes it quite distinct from the rest of India. It’s golden sand and palm tree lined coast attract people from all over for the ultimate beach destination in the country.

However, it also has a notorious reputation for being the place foreigners go for full moon beach parties and getting their hands on every drug under the sun. It’s somehow always been the place for parties, even since colonial days, and it was the epicentre of the hippie backpacking trail in the 60s and 70s.

Today, there is a greater police presence and the parties are not as wild as they once were, but it’s still India’s version of Bali in many ways. Still, there are many different parts of Goa to explore depending on what you’re looking for.

Why is Goa the Perfect Destination in India for Solo Travellers?

Goa is still one of the best places for solo travel in India. You’ll never be alone in Goa with a great traveller crowd all year round – it’s one of the easiest places to meet other people. There’s also good Western comfort food available and easy transport connections to other major cities, making it equally good for first-time travellers to India. 

However, if you want to get underneath the culture a bit more, then you’ll have to pull yourself away from the sandy beaches. The state capital,  Panjim  or Panaji offers a good chance to see some incredible colonial architecture and old churches.

On the southern coast,  Palolem beach offers a more relaxed, yet still popular place to hang out. In the north,  Anjuna  has a great hippie market and  Arambol  is where you’ll find plenty of backpackers who have been washed up there for weeks. 

Where to Stay in Goa?

Backpackers and Budget Travellers:

Happy Panda Hostel (Arambol)

The Funky Monkey Hostel (Anjuna)

Rainbow Lining Hostel (Palolem)

Mid-range and Comfort Travellers:

Art Resort (Palolem)

Michèle’s Garden (Anjuna)

Tattvam On The Beach – Retreat and Spa (Arambol)

Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan for Solo Travellers

The most famous part of India, Rajasthan draws the big crowds of tourists for its impressive forts, palaces and colourful cities. It’s the place where most first time visitors and solo backpackers head, with a well established travel route through Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur.

While these are incredible places, I always tell solo travellers to head to Pushkar and Jaisalmer as well. These are often left off India itineraries by those short on time, but I found them to be some of the most memorable places in Rajasthan.

Read more: Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 2 Weeks in India

Similar to a lot of places on this list, Pushkar is a popular backpacker hangout spot that attracts people from all walks of life. It’s a very beautiful place, bordering the Thar Desert and set on the Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan. 

It’s a very sacred site for Hindus with 52 ghats (stairs) where pilgrims come to bathe in the holy water of the lake . There are hundreds of temples in the town, which are weaved between all the souvenir shops, rooftop cafes and small guesthouses. 

If you time your visit right, you can even witness the famous Pushkar Camel Fair. This annual livestock and cultural festival is held in November every year. Although, similar to Holi, this can be an intense experience for foreign travellers.

Why is Pushkar Perfect for Solo Travellers in India?

Pushkar is one of the most chill places in Rajasthan, which can otherwise be an intense state to visit in India. Its small-town vibe means it’s easy to navigate and there are also plenty of things to do in the surrounding area which is usually seen by renting a scooter. The cafes and shops surrounding the lake are hard to resist and it’s one of the  best places to pick up cheap clothing and gifts. 

Being in Rajasthan, you’ll find plenty of other travellers there and the local people are well and truly used to dealing with foreigners. It’s easy to spend longer than planned in Pushkar – I ended up staying a week.

Where to Stay in Pushkar

Milkman Guesthouse | Easily one of the cheapest places you’ll find, Milkman is a small family-run hostel right in the heart of Pushkar. For just 150 INR (AU$3) you can get a bed in a dorm. This is where I stayed for a week, and it felt like home. Check availability here .

Kanhaia Haveli | For a reasonable price, you can stay in this beautifully restored haveli. Right in the middle of town, they offer standard and deluxe double rooms. Prices start fro 800 INR (AU$15) per night. Check availability here .

Pushkar Organic Farm Resort | For a completely unique place, a few kilometres outside of town is this luxury farm stay. With a large outdoor pool and beautiful garden, it’s one of the nicest options in Pushkar. Check availability here .

Jaisalmer is a former trading centre and princely state in the Thar Desert in western Rajasthan. It’s known as the Golden City with its distinct sandstone architecture that appears more like a sandcastle or desert outpost from afar. The main attraction is Jaisalmer Fort , a sprawling citadel that is an extremely impressive place to explore. It’s also a perfect base for overnight desert trips and camel rides .

At times, the city can be overwhelming with plenty of tourist shops and touts circling around the fort. However, compared to Udaipur and Jaipur in Rajasthan, you’ll have a more relaxing time here.

Why is Jaisalmer Perfect for Solo Travellers in India?

Jaisalmer is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan but is often overlooked by those short on time. It has a real charm to it and is more relaxing than bustling Jaipur or Udaipur, which see far more tourists. It’s also easy to meet other travellers in Jaisalmer and  joining group tours into the desert as a solo traveller  is easy to arrange. 

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

Crazy Camel Guesthouse | Just 300m from the fort, thjis bohemian style hostel is a cheap and cheerful place to stay. With a nice rooftop area to watch the sunset and friendly owners who can arrange camel trips. Prices start from just 200 INR (AU$4) for a dorm bed. Check availability here .

Hotel The Surya | A fantastic mid-range hotel, this place has a rooftop with fort views, and is within walking distance of all the sights. With queen and family rooms and offering a restaurant onsite too. Prices start from 1300 INR (AU$25) per night. Check availability here .

Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli | A beautiful restored haveli done in traditional architecture and design, the rooftop patio offers outstanding views over the fort and town. Prices start from 4500 INR (AU$85) per night in a double room. Check availability here .

Best Places to Visit in East India for Solo Travellers

Once you head east and away from Rajasthan and Delhi, you’ll start to see far less tourists and some incredibly fascinating sights. While distances are vast and you’ll have to have some patience with transport, exploring the eastern part of India is perfect for solo travellers.

Whether you tumble head first into the intense city of Varanasi or head even further up to Darjeeling to chill out amongst the clouds in the hill station, it offers some more interesting destinations away from the well-travelled circuit.

Darjeeling is a hill station in the foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal state. It was once a summer resort town for the British Raj and is still used as a refreshing escape by travellers from the rest of the humid east of India. It’s most famous for its tea plantations that harvest some of the world’s best quality leaves and the narrow-gauge railway or toy train that remains in use since 1881. 

It’s one of my favourite places in India and is highly underrated. I’ve visited twice and spent considerable time there using it as a perfect place for some R&R. On clear days the mountain views can even rival anything that you’ll see in Nepal. 

Read next: 10 Best Things to Do in Darjeeling

Why is Darjeeling an Ideal Destination in India for Solo Travellers?

Darjeeling is an interesting place to visit and is not much like anywhere else in East India. It has a distinctive Tibetan population and the cool mountain air makes it a relaxing escape for solo travellers after spending time in big cities like Varanasi or Kolkata. There’s also plenty of things to do in the small town, so you can keep yourself busy for days. 

It’s one of those places that most people don’t expect when travelling to India and it’s certainly  less popular than some of the other destinations  on this list. However, if you’re heading out east, then I highly recommend a stop in Darjeeling.

Where to Stay in Darjeeling

Golden Orchid – The Lodge | My go-to place when I’m in Darjeeling, this guesthouse is in a nice position close to the main market area. The rooms are very cosy and the onsite restaurant does good food for reasonable prices. Double rooms start from 1300 INR (AU$25) per night. Check availability here .

Cedar Inn | For those looking for more luxury, this inn is perfectly located for incredible mountain views, plus the centre of town is just less than 20 minute walk. Double rooms start from 10,000 INR (AU$200) per night. Check availability here .

Varanasi is the ultimate India experience. It’s an intoxicating and overwhelming amalgam of India’s spirituality and zest. It’s the holiest city for Hindus, who come in droves every day of the year to bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River and perform funeral rituals for the dead. There are 2000 temples within the ancient city and the many ghats (stone steps) all blend into one in an incredible sight to behold. 

It’s by far one of India’s most intense cities and exploring Varanasi is not for the faint hearted. However, if you want to really get under the skin of the country and start to understand what makes India tick, then it’s a must-visit destination.

Why Solo Travellers Should Go to Varanasi in India?

I have to recommend Varanasi with a small warning. It can be an incredibly shocking, eye-opening, gut-wrenching and powerful place to experience. However, nothing can really prepare you for it and it’s a city that I think  everyone should visit once in their lifetime . I have to admit though that some people dislike the city and find it too much to handle, while others revel in the intensity and enjoy getting absorbed in the craziness of India. You’ll soon find out which camp you fall into. 

It’s not necessarily a place that I would usually recommend for first time travel to India, but for solo travellers, a visit to Varanasi can be incredibly rewarding. Plus, there are always other travellers to meet there too – it’s definitely on the well beaten path.

Where to Stay in Varanasi

Gypsy Diaries Hostel | A vibrant hostel with comfortable beds and plenty of shared open areas to meet other travellers. It’s walking distance from the Ganges River, and offers AC dorm rooms to retreat from the hot. Beds start from 400 INR (AU$8) per night. Check availability here .

Bhadra Kali Guest House | A homely guesthouse with friendly staff, this place offers incredible views over the Ganges River. The double rooms are colourfully decorated and comfortable for 2500 INR (AU$50) per night. Check availability here .

Best Places to Visit in North India for Solo Travellers

If you’re looking for beautiful landscapes, epic road trips and a real sense of adventure, then North India might just be the place. Arguably home to some of the most stunning vistas in all of Asia, North India is a spectacular place to explore if you have the guts and patience to make it through the long, mountainous roads.

If you want a quick taste of the region, you can head to the popular backpacker hub of Manali or Dharamsala. But, if you have more time, I encourage you to keep going north to Ladakh. It’s one of my favourite places on earth and will have you standing in absolute awe at the Greater Himalayas.

Read next: Ultimate North India Itinerary for 1 Month

Manali is a resort town in the foothills of the Himalayas in India’s beautiful Himachal Pradesh state. Although the town itself is not much to look at, the incredible surrounding landscape make it an incredibly popular place to visit. It’s one of the country’s adventure capitals with plenty of activities to keep you entertained from hiking to paragliding. 

Manali has options for everyone with upmarket resorts and wellness centres to backpacker cafes and hostels. The surrounding valleys, especially Parvati, are known to grow some of the best weed in the world, so you’ll also see and smell a lot of that around too. 

Why is Manali Perfect for Solo Travellers in India?

It has an odd reputation of being both a favourite honeymoon destination for Indians as well as a backpacker hangout for foreigners. Either way, it’s an extremely friendly place to spend some time and there’s always people to meet there no matter what kind of traveller you are. It’s also the  perfect introduction to India’s Himalayan region  with a very different vibe to the rest of the country. 

Where to Stay in Manali

Young Monk Hostel | Up in Old Manali amidst the backpackers, you’ll find this cute hostel and cafe amongst the trees. With a colourful shared lounge, garden, and dorms and private rooms from 250 INR (AU$5) per night it’s great value. Check availability here .

Hotel Ocean Manali | Located not far from Mall Road in Manali, this hotel has clean, comfortable rooms from as little as 800 INR (AU$16) per night. But the highlight is the huge outdoor terrace with beautiful mountain views. Check availability here .

Dharamsala/McLeod Ganj

Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj are often referred to interchangeably and both are famous for being home to the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader. In reality, Dharamsala is the bustling market city in the foot of the surrounding mountains, while McLeod Ganj is the village 3km further uphill where the Dalai Lama actually lives and where most travellers plan to head. 

The upper parts of McLeod Ganj are where you’ll find much of the backpacker infrastructure. The small sub-villages of Dharamkot and Bhagsu have turned into rabbit warrens of rasta cafes, vegan eateries, tattoo parlours, local tailors and yoga centres. There are some popular treks, waterfalls and other adventure activities nearby which keep people holed up for days. 

If you’re lucky, you might be in town when the Dalai Lama is doing a public teaching at his temple and you should definitely do everything that you can to get yourself an entry pass (you can look up his anticipated schedule ahead of time if you want to plan your trip accordingly).

Why is McLeod Ganj perfect for solo travellers in India?

McLeod Ganj is a real insight into Tibetan culture and is certainly an  interesting place to visit for any traveller to India . It’s also very laidback and friendly and it’s a great place to meet people from all over the world. Like a lot of places on this list, it’s one of India’s great backpacker hangouts and the crowd is always an interesting mix. If you’re sick of curry and rice, you’ll have plenty of different food choices here too, which can be nice for a change too.

Where to Stay in McLeod Ganj

Moustache Hostel | I booked 2 nights and stayed nearly a week, so its definitely has good vibes. Located in Bhagsu, within walking distance of most attractions and good cafes, I loved the laidback attitude and and comfy dorm beds from 300 INR (AU$6) per night. Check availability here .

The Unmad Dharamkot | A brightly lit place up on the slopes of the mountains in Dharamkot, this is perfect if you want a quiet retreat. Double rooms with patios start from 2000 INR (AU$40) per night. Check availability here .

Rishikesh is a city on the Ganges River in Uttarakhand state. It’s most well-known for being a centre for yoga and meditation schools with hundreds of them scattered along both sides of the river (you can thank the Beatles for that). 

The river is holy for Indians and you’ll find a mix of pilgrims, sadhus (holy men) and cows down by the water’s edge. In some ways it has a level of similarity to Varanasi: the streets are unclean, there are always crowds of people and the kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and smells can sometimes be overwhelming. However, it does have a more soothing vibe to it and many people come here to better their own practice of meditation and mindfulness.

Why is Rishikesh perfect for solo travellers in India?

The yoga schools fill up with foreigners and the vegan cafes attract backpackers who come looking for a relaxing escape. So, you’ll always find people to meet and fleetingly bond with in Rishikesh. It also offers a less intense insight into the power of the Ganges than Varanasi and watching the nightly aarti ceremony down at the water is a highlight.

However, I’ve met some people who didn’t like Rishikesh and I’ve met people who have stayed for months, it’s another place that you’ll have to discover for yourself. However, it still manages to be one of the best destinations in India for solo travel, purely because of the  great community of backpackers and travellers there.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh

Blue Jay Hostel | One of my favourite hostels in India, I stayed for two weeks in Blue Jay. Located in Tapovan, it’s in a great location close to cafes, yoga ashrams, and walking distance to Ram Jhula. Dorms start from 500 INR (AU10) per night. Check availability here .

Seventh Heaven Inn | This spacious hotel offers large double rooms from 3000 INR (AU$60) per night. Located in Tapovan, you can easily walk to any of the attractions and ashrams for drop-in yoga classes. Check availability here .

Leh is one of my favourite places in India. It’s the largest town in the Ladakh territory, in the far north of the country, and the former capital of the Himalayan kingdom that ruled the area before independence. The town is predominately Buddhist and the culture is very different from anywhere else on the subcontinent. 

It’s a lofty city sitting at 3500m at one of the greatest intersections of mountains in the world, with the Karakoram, Zanskar, Ladakh and Himalayan Ranges all blending together. The landscape is one of the most beautiful you may ever see with an arid high-altitude snow-capped desert that appears like it belongs on another planet.

There are countless treks in the area as well as road trips to ancient monasteries, high passes and remote villages. If you’re looking for true adventure in India, this is where you’ll find it.

Read next: 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Why is Leh Perfect for Solo Travellers in India?

Leh is one of the friendliest places in India. The people of Ladakh are incredibly hospitable and the city is extremely low-key. There’s no hassle in the streets or tour touts lurking about. It’s also very easy to arrange sightseeing tours and treks. All agencies offer the same set regulated government price and there are plenty of tourists to join together to form groups in high season. 

For both first-time travellers and solo travellers in India, Leh offers a really rewarding experience. It’s not the easiest place to reach and the altitude can pose some problems, but otherwise, it’s one of the  best adventures to be had in India . 

Read next: Complete 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Where to Stay in Leh

Raybo Hostel | The best hostel in Leh, this cosy place has friendly staff and very comfortable dorm rooms for 300 INR (AU$6) per night with a delicious included breakfast in the shared dining room. It’s tucked away from the main bazaar but within easy walking distance. Check availability here .

Rock Castle Residency | A perfect mid-range option for those who want some comfort. The owner Gonbo and his family are incredibly welcoming and happy to help arrange any part of your Ladakh trip. Their rooms are huge with views towards Tsemo Monastery. Prices start from 2500 INR (AU$50) per night. Check availability here .

More Essential Reading for India

• Everything You Need to Know About Travelling to India
• Ultimate 1 Month North India Itinerary
• Best 2 Week Rajasthan Itinerary
• 20 Best Things to Do in Delhi

Pin this post

Share this:

How to Get to Majuli Island in Assam

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Northeast India

How to Explore Zanskar Valley in North India

Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh in North India

Traveling alone is a favored choice for some voyagers all over the planet. It sounds alarming however could be the most freeing experience. Good work, keep going

[…] Read next: 12 Best Places to Visit in India for Solo Travellers […]

[…] 12 Best Places to Visit in India for Solo Travellers […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from beyond wild places.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

I’m a woman who loves traveling solo. What should I know about India?

Oct 20, 2023 • 4 min read

Less-visited corners of India – such as the south or the northeast – offer a way for solo female travelers to ease into their journeys © Sudip Bhar / Shutterstock

In this series, Lonely Planet’s team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. We asked Mumbai-based LP editor Akanksha Singh – a self-confessed control freak who finds traveling solo the ultimate in freedom – to field this question.

Question: ​​I am 27 years old and have traveled solo on my own in Europe and North America. Next year, I am planning a month-long trip to India, and am wondering if you have any tips for a female solo traveler?

Akanksha Singh: A cheesy quote graffitied on a wall outside a stoner cafe in Rishikesh some has stayed with me over the years: “You don’t visit India. India visits you.” In other words,  India is an experience that aches as much as it thrills. And if you haven’t traveled much outside the Global North, I’d say this is doubly true. 

Yet from the velvet beaches of Andman and Nicobar to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, it’s one of the few places where you can travel at your own pace, at any budget. You can hole yourself away in a lakefront cabin in verdant Maharastra , trek the unspoiled Markha Valley  or immerse yourself in mythology in Hampi . 

While it’s hard to condense all the safety dos and don’ts for a country this big and diverse, here are a few tips to get you started. 

Sort out your communications right when you arrive 

The best safety measure for solo travelers? A local prepaid SIM card. This will help you make train bookings and use transport apps like Ola and Uber (which sometimes offer rides between cities, too), among countless other tasks. Owing to security concerns, there’s very little free public wi-fi in India. Data plans in India are, however, largely affordable (as low as $2 for 1GB a day ), which means you can stay connected throughout your trip without denting your budget. 

You can pick up a local SIM card as soon as you arrive in India, even at the airport. To do so, you’ll need to carry an unlocked phone, photocopies of your passport and some passport-sized photos. Despite the country’s efforts to “go digital,” getting a SIM is still a paper-heavy process – so prepare to be patient.

Take note of emergency numbers should you need them: 100 (for the police) and 181 (a dedicated women’s helpline). 

Budget well – some upgrades are worth it

The sad reality of traveling in India is that you’re likely to be safer if you pay top rupee for certain essentials, such as accommodation and transport . If you’re traveling long distances by train, consider splurging out on an air-con first class (1AC) ticket, which comes with seats that convert into beds and compartments with lockable doors. 

Before you get into a taxi or auto rickshaw, ensure the driver will charge you by the meter, and don’t let them pick up strangers to carpool on your ride – if they do, get off. And your mother was right: never accept rides from strangers. 

Dress modestly 

Dress codes vary by Indian destination. While it’s best to take your cue from locals, as a general rule of thumb, if you’re somewhere hotter, opt for loose-fitting linen and cotton t-shirts and trousers. Also carry a scarf or sarong to cover up further if needed at holy sites, and note that few Indians wear swimwear to beaches (you’ll even see some women swimming in saris).

Consider easing into the more touristy spaces

For your first taste of urban India, start in Mumbai . As a Mumbaikar, I’m biased, it’s true – but I’ve got data to back this up. Mumbai is the second-most-honest city in the world (after Helsinki), safer for women than other Indian cities and a great place to get your overall bearings.

If you’re an especially nervous or inexperienced traveler, consider traveling India’s south and northeast first. I’m by no means suggesting you restrict yourself geographically; if we women did this, we’d never leave the safety and comfort of our homes. However, parts of northern India – particularly more-visited places like Agra , Jaipur and Delhi – are harder to navigate as a solo traveler.

If you have second thoughts, there are always women’s travel groups you can look into joining for part of your time here. I’ve never used one, but friends who have recommend them, and have even formed lifelong friendships through them.  

Seek out women-only spaces wherever they’re available 

In an effort to equalize against a largely conservative, patriarchal society, women are offered a few “perks” in India. Wherever these are available, use them: the ladies’ compartments in trains; “family” spaces in restaurants; women-only queues at ticket counters, post offices, etc. 

Trust your instincts

It’s a cliché because it’s true: there’s no substitute for going with your gut. This is a country of over a billion people, so everything is scaled up – from scams to incidents of sexual harassment.

For the most part a firm, loud “no” can rebuff unwanted male attention. That said, it’s best to avoid revealing you’re traveling alone. In fact, if you want to, you’re welcome to steal one of my many fake male friends and boyfriends I’m on my way to meet and who I always happen to be on the phone to whenever I’m on assignment somewhere new: Ravi, Rohan (he’s trained in jiu-jitsu), Raj, Rishi, Rishabh...

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Sep 4, 2024 • 13 min read

India's overwhelming size and diversity can be a lot for first-time visitors. Make it easier with our tips on what you need to know before you go.

Aug 30, 2024 • 12 min read

Aug 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Aug 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 27, 2024 • 4 min read

Jul 18, 2024 • 5 min read

Jul 9, 2024 • 3 min read

Jun 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 14, 2024 • 6 min read

• The Best Destinations In India...

The Best Destinations in India for Solo Travel

India Writer

Solo travel is exhilarating: it’s a chance to learn more about yourself while connecting with like-minded travellers. Whether you’re seeking something spiritual or adventurous, India is a great country to explore alone – if you know where to go, that is. From quiet beach towns to bustling cities, these are the best Indian destinations to visit if you’re travelling alone.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

You won’t feel alone in Delhi, home to New Delhi, India’s capital. This vibrant city is the starting point for most tours of the country, so you’ll bump into plenty of other travellers. There’s accommodation to suit all budgets (Paharganj is one of the most popular spots for backpackers), and it’s easy to get around using the metro system. When it comes to sightseeing, marvel at the Red Fort’s grand facade and gaze up at Qutab Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret at 72.5m (238ft). Built in 1986, the Lotus Temple is a more modern architectural wonder, comprising 27 marble petals that come together to resemble the eponymous flower. Keep your energy levels up by sampling some of Delhi’s delicious street food, with stuffed paratha (flatbreads), sizzling samosas and juicy kebabs among the tastiest offerings.

Mumbai, one of India’s largest and busiest cities , might seem intimidating at first, but its residents are warm and friendly. This coastal city is a melting pot of old and new – think ancient temples and historic landmarks near towering skyscrapers. It’s home to three Unesco World Heritage sites: the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, the grand Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, and the Elephanta Caves, on one of the islands in Mumbai Harbour. Hoping for some retail therapy? You’ll find a cornucopia of treasures at the Colaba Causeway Market, flea-market finds at Chor Bazaar and jewellery at the renowned gold market, Zaveri Bazaar. How about relaxation? Book into wellness centres at hotels such as the Oberoi, Grand Hyatt and Four Seasons.

Travellers flock to the state of Kerala to enjoy its paradisiacal scenery and laid-back atmosphere. There are some fantastic trekking opportunities, thanks to six national parks of varied terrain, more than a dozen wildlife sanctuaries and two tiger reserves in the majestic Western Ghats and Sahyadri Ranges. You’ll find a mix of species, including the Indian sloth bear, the lion-tailed macaque, the Indian bison and the Bengal tiger. Continue your adventure through Kerala with a beach safari across golden sand, where ecolodges and resorts overlook palm trees. If you really want to get into the Kerala state of mind, book yourself into a week-long yoga retreat or surf camp.

Spend a couple of days in Darjeeling, in Northeast India, if you’re looking for a breath of fresh air. This quaint hillside town, which was one of the main summer destinations during the British Raj, is home to some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. It makes for a refreshing break from India’s frenetic cities, and with plenty of affordable guesthouses and hostels, it’s a great destination for solo travellers. Soak up the scenery by taking a joy ride on the Toy Train via the Batasia Loop, which offers stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Fancy climbing it yourself? Sign up for a course with the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, or if you’re fairly experienced, trek to the top of Sandakphu. At 3,636m (11,929ft), it’s the highest point in the state of West Bengal, and you’re rewarded with some killer views of Mount Everest from the top.

If you consider yourself an adventurous type, spend your holiday in the Himalayan mountain town of Manali, in India’s northern Himachal Pradesh state. Skiing, whitewater rafting, hiking, and paragliding are all on the agenda at this charming hillside resort, which is a backpacking paradise with plenty of affordable hotels and hostels. March to July are the best months to visit if you want to get stuck into water sports (on the Beas River), while December to February is the best window to hit the slopes. Aside from the adrenaline-pumping activities, Manali is the perfect spot for a spiritual sojourn. There are many temples tucked away in the valley, and the ancient Hidimba Devi Temple is one of the more popular pilgrimage sites in the region. The Dalai Lama has previously chosen it as a place to share his teachings.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Longing for some thrilling adventures? A trip to Ladakh is in order, with its rugged terrain, icy glaciers, snow-clad mountains and ancient Buddhist monasteries . In the “Land of High Passes”, you can indulge in adventurous activities such as trekking, mountain biking and riding on Bactrian camels. You might even catch a glimpse of a snow leopard, which are only in a few locations across the world. Those seeking peace and quiet can stay at one of the area’s many monasteries and partake in spiritual retreats to find inner peace.

Varkala, a laid-back beach town, is ideal for those who want sun, sea and serenity with their soul-searching. Unlike other Indian beach towns, such as Goa, Varkala isn’t particularly touristy, so you can relax in peace. Spend your days sunbathing on Varkala Beach (also known as Papanasam Beach) and enjoying water sports before boating around the picturesque Kappil Lake and visiting the historical Anchuthengu Fort, established in the 17th century by the British East India Company.

If you’re interested in history, architecture and religion, Hampi, in eastern Karnataka, is a must-visit, as it’s one of India’s 38 Unesco World Heritage-protected sites. It’s also known as the “Group of Monuments at Hampi” as it’s home to many temples and remains from the Vijayanagara Empire. Join a tour to meet fellow travellers, or marvel and snap pictures of intricate carvings, rock formations and stone boulders at your own pace.

Be at one with nature in Kasol , on the banks of the Parvati River, in Himachal Pradesh. Trekking through pine forests and camping are popular ways to explore this region – Kheerganga, Sar Pass, Pin Parvati Pass and Yanker Pass are among the most well-known routes. Go it alone or join backpackers and international tourists on expeditions that culminate in bonfires and music.

Gangtok, in the Sikkim Himalayan region, is a playground for adventurous types. Hop in its famous cable car and take in panoramic vistas of the city before building an itinerary of trekking, mountain biking, paragliding and rafting on the Teesta River. If that’s not enough, plan a yak safari along its rugged terrain. Everything in Gangtok is relatively affordable – from staying at hilltop hotels to exploring its attractions – so you don’t have to fret about breaking the bank while travelling solo.

Pondicherry

There’s so much to do and see in Pondicherry, the French capital of India, that you’re unlikely to get bored when travelling by yourself. The best way to discover its beaches and cobbled streets dotted with colonial architecture is on a guided bicycle tour. The town is safe and easy to get around, and it boasts a great food scene, featuring a fusion of South Indian and French influences.

Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley , high in the Himalayas between Tibet and India, is Ladakh’s lesser-visited cousin. Its mountains, Buddhist monasteries, and scenic lakes and valleys are among the most beautiful in the country; discover it all through trekking, camping and mountain biking. The people of the hamlet are friendly and welcoming, and as there aren’t many hotels or guesthouses in the area, you can plan to stay with them.

Rishikesh has long attracted backpackers and solo travellers who come for the spiritual vibe and adrenaline-pumping adventure. There are numerous yoga and meditation retreats to choose from at ashrams and centres in this city, while outdoor adventures include river rafting, bungee jumping and kayaking. While you’re here, don’t miss the world-famous Ganga Aarti, a daily holy ritual at sundown that uses fire as an offering.

You can expect to leave Goa with a whole new group of friends who you’ll meet at its many lively bars and nightclubs. While this city attracts travellers from across the globe as India’s party capital, it’s also a deeply spiritual place with many retreats and yoga courses on offer. Fill your days by relaxing on its beaches, indulging in water sports and snapping pictures of the architectural ruins that date back to the Portuguese era.

Come to Rajasthan – popularly known as the “Land of Kings” thanks to its royal past – for its art, culture and history. Rajputs, Mughals and Marathas all ruled at one point, and there’s an abundance of temples, forts and palaces that reflect this past. Discover its rich culture and traditions through lively fairs and festivals, dance, folk music, and exquisite art and handicrafts. Rajasthani people are known for their warm hospitality, so the solo traveller will never feel alone.

Sadie Whitelocks contributed additional reporting to this article.

What is the Festival of Holi, And Why is It Celebrated?

The 10 Best Day Trips From Goa

The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in India

These 7 Temples in India are Famous for Their Erotic Sculptures

Most Beautiful Cities You Should Visit in India

The 9 Best Things To Do in Connaught Place, New Delhi

The 7 Best Day Trips to Take From Chennai, India

Spa Hotels to Book for a Detox in India

The Top 24 Things To Do And See In Kolkata

The 9 Best Ancient Towns and Cities You Should Visit in India

7 Top Things To Do And See In Jaipur

The Top 19 Unusual Things to Do in Mumbai

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 1641585
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Best Places For Solo Travel in India

Amazing places for solo trip in india, here is the list of 21 best places for solo travel in india, 1. hampi, karnataka - the abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape.

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, Hampi boasts over 500 historic monuments set against a stunning backdrop of hills and the Tungabhadra river. Once the heart of the Vijayanagara empire, it encompasses temples, royal centers, and quarters of Muslim officers. Accessible via Hospet by train or Hubli by air, it's best visited in winter; with a variety of accommodations ranging from guest houses to luxury hotels, a 2-3 day stay is recommended to fully experience Hampi.

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

2. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Cafes in Kasol

Often called the 'Goa of the Hills', Kasol is a trekkers' haven and a hippie hotspot nestled beside the trout-rich Parvati River thats ideal for fishing and rafting. Accessible by bus and train, the best time to visit is from March to May. Offering various accommodations, visitors can plan a two-day trip: one for trekking and another for relaxation.

Best Time: October to June

28 Kasol Attractions

3. Pondicherry - The French Riviera of the East

Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

Experience a slice of France in Puducherry, known for its French-inspired architecture and cuisine. Enjoy a scenic drive from Chennai, explore the town, and reconnect spiritually at Auroville temple. Best visited between October and February, plan a 3-4 day stay in a colonial-style hotel.

48 Pondicherry Attractions

4. Varkala, Kerala - The hidden treasure of Kerala

Known For : Varkala Cliff Water Sports in Varkala Varkala Beach

Perched on a tranquil cliff by the Arabian Sea, Varkala in Kerala boasts attractions like Ponnumthuruthu Island and the serene Papasnanam Beach. Enjoy relaxing beach days, rejuvenate with famed Ayurvedic treatments, and explore the captivating Kapil Lake and temples. Easily accessible via Varkala station or Trivandrum Airport, it's an ideal escape from December to March, with 3-4 days perfect for delving into its wonders.

Best Time: October to February

26 Varkala Attractions

India Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Andaman Island Trip Package - Snorkeling at Elephant Beach

Kerala 4 night 5 days package with houseboat, manali volvo tour package - excursion to solang valley, srinagar package for 5 nights with sonamarg excursion, jaipur jodhpur udaipur tour package - pearls of rajasthan, ladakh 7 days itinerary - summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, 5. gokarna, karnataka - land of palm trees, blue seas and golden sands.

Known For : Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Paradise Beach, Gokarna

For an unforgettable beach experience, head to Gokarna. Beyond its temple town essence, it boasts vibrant beaches and lively bonfire nights. Visit between October and March, accessible by bus or train, with Dabolim in Goa as the nearest airport. Embrace the backpacker life with a 4-5 day stay in cozy cottages, unwinding on hammocks.

Best Time: Throughout the year

20 Gokarna Attractions

6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - Yoga Capital of the World

Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills where the Ganga meets the Chandrabhaga, Rishikesh boasts thrilling adventures, ancient temples, vibrant cafes, and its title as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Easily accessible from Delhi and Dehradun, this dynamic city caters to varied interests. Stay in one of its many hostels for a 2-3 day immersive experience.

53 Rishikesh Attractions

7. Udaipur, Rajasthan - The city of Lakes

Known For : City Palace, Udaipur Lake Pichola Sajjangarh Palace

Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur, the City of Lakes, gleams as Rajasthan's crown jewel. Often called the 'Venice of the East', its captivating temples, architecture, and a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola showcase its splendor. Easily accessible via the Maharana Pratap Airport or a scenic drive from cities like Ahmedabad, this enchanting city is ideal for a weekend escape, with quaint hostels and regal havelis enhancing the experience.

43 Udaipur Attractions

8. Pushkar, Rajasthan

Known For : Pushkar Lake Brahma Temple Savitri Temple

Pushkar, nestled in the Aravali ranges, is renowned for the unique Brahma temple and its vibrant street markets. Whether it's sipping chai by the ghats, exploring colorful alley shops, or soaking in the spiritual ambiance, Pushkar offers an enriching experience. Easily accessible from Ajmer and Jaipur, this pilgrimage hub is perfect for a 2-3 day stay in its welcoming hostels.

27 Pushkar Attractions

9. Shillong, Meghalaya - Scotland of the East

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Laitlum Canyons

Shillong, Meghalaya's capital, often dubbed the 'Scotland of the East', is a refreshing retreat with its pine-clad landscapes and serene ambiance. Revered for its Lei Shyllong idol and pleasant climate, its charm is amplified by gentle drizzles. Easily reachable from Guwahati, this picturesque haven is perfect for a 3-day stay in cozy homestays or boutique hotels.

Best Time: September to May

33 Shillong Attractions

10. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Known For : Tarin Fish Farm Kile Pakho Ziro Music Festival

With zero reasons to skip, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh promises an invigorating escape with its lush pine groves and vibrant orchids. Dive into the rejuvenating mountain air, take on the Dolo Mando trek, or get enchanted at the Ziro Music Festival. Easily accessible from Tezpur, this scenic destination is a must-visit from February to October, with a suggested four-day stay to fully embrace its beauty.

Best Time: September - November ; March - May

9 Ziro Attractions

11. Jaipur, Rajasthan - The Pink City

Known For : Amer Fort Jantar Mantar Jaipur Hawa Mahal

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a splendid blend of ancient and modern, forming a corner of the famed Golden Triangle with Delhi and Agra. A former realm of Rajput kingdoms, it's a top spot for female travelers. Conveniently linked by rail and air, spend 2-3 days in Jaipur, choosing from a rich array of accommodation, from backpacker hostels to luxury hotels.

Best Time: November to March

67 Jaipur Attractions

12. Manali, Himachal Pradesh - Lover's Paradise - India's Honeymoon capital

Known For : Hidimba Temple Solang Valley Manu Temple

Manali, a harmonious blend of antiquity and modernity, is set amidst pine forests with a rushing river, feeling like a slice of a storybook world. It's a gateway to Spiti and Leh, and February visitors can witness the grandeur of the Tibetan New Year's Lossar Festival. Whether you're drawn to temples, hot springs, monasteries, or German bakeries, Manali has it all. Accessible by flight to Bhuntar or scenic roadways, plan a 5-6 day stay, choosing from a variety of accommodations.

51 Manali Attractions

13. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - The Spiritual Capital of India

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benaras, stands as a spiritual beacon for Hindus. Beyond its famed silk, the city's ghats and temples pulse with history, and its open-air rituals aren't for the faint-hearted. Best visited from October to March, it's accessible by flight, with accommodations ranging from riverbank budget hotels to backpacker's hostels; a three-day stay lets you fully experience its depth.

42 Varanasi Attractions

14. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Just two hours from Chennai, Mahabalipuram is a World Heritage Site boasting ancient rock-cut temples and rich Pallava Kingdom history. While the temples attract many, the town's craftsmen keep the age-old tradition of stone-carving alive. Whether exploring on foot or by bicycle, a day or two suffices, but combining it with a longer trip to Chennai and Pudducherry is also popular.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

15. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh - The little Lhasa in India

Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Dharamsala, home to the grandest Tibetan temple outside Tibet and the Dalai Lama's monastery, beckons travelers with its upper part, McLeodganj. A short trek connects Bir to Biling, world-renowned for paragliding, while Kareri lake offers another picturesque trek. Accessible by flight, or more scenically by bus or train, Dharamsala promises affordable stays, especially between March and October. Spend a weekend here or extend your trip with nearby Dalhousie or McLeodganj.

38 Dharamsala Attractions

16. Kovalam, Kerala - Beaches, Ayurveda and Shopping

Known For : Kovalam Beach Vizhinjam Lighthouse Aazhimala Shiva Temple

Kovalam is an idyllic coastal town located around 13 km from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Famous for its three adjacent crescent-shaped shallow water and low tidal beaches, Kovalam is dotted with resorts and ayurvedic massage centres. Easily accessible via Trivandrum's airport and railway, it offers a range of homestays and beach resorts for a 2-3 day rejuvenating escape.

Best Time: September to March

33 Kovalam Attractions

17. Goa - Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights

Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa

On India's west coast, Goa, a small state with Portuguese roots, beckons with stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Easily reachable by air, rail, or road, including buses from cities like Mumbai. For the full experience, stay at its diverse accommodations, from hostels to beach resorts, for at least 4 days.

197 Goa Attractions

18. Nainital, Uttarakhand - Misty lakes and mountains

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

Nestled in the Kumaon foothills of the Himalayas, Nainital is Uttarakhand's captivating hill station, with its iconic Naini Lake. Boasting a rich colonial heritage from its British founders, it's an ideal weekend escape from Delhi. Though it lacks direct connectivity, Kathgodam railway station is 35 km away, and direct buses from Delhi offer a 7-hour journey.

33 Nainital Attractions

19. Jibhi, Tirthan-valley

Nestled in the lush forests of Himachal Pradesh, Jibhi is a serene hamlet untouched by industrialization. With its dense pine forests, tranquil lakes, and pristine temples, it offers a Victorian-style retreat that transports you to another era. Reachable via Shimla's railway station, 150 km away, you can easily find rental cars or take a bus from Delhi to Aut and then a direct connection to Jibhi. Enjoy nature with a cup of chai and the melodies of birds.

20. Mysore, Karnataka - A glimpse of Southern India

Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo

The flamboyant City of Palaces, Mysore boasts a rich royal heritage, famed silk sarees, and a backdrop of the Chamundi Hills. With its cultural allure, it attracts tourists throughout the year. While its airport isn't fully functional, Bangalore's airport is a viable alternative, with easy train and bus connections to Mysore. Stay options are plentiful, making it perfect for a two-day exploration.

36 Mysore Attractions

Beyond the bustling Kasol in Parvati Valley lies the serene village of Chalal, offering a deeper dive into Himachal's magic. A 30-minute trek away from the tourist hub of Kasol, Chalal has managed to retain its old world mountain village rustic charm. Set in the beautiful Parvati Valley of the Himalayas, with a grand view of snow-capped mountains and majestic pine trees, this quaint town can be visited between april and june. With homestays and hostels available, immerse yourself in its Himalayan charm.

Some Do's and Don'ts of Solo Travel

• While it is liberating to not have to check in with people constantly while travelling alone, make sure someone has the numbers of the places you'll be staying at.
• If you are going to a place where your phone might not get network and you are not sure where you'll stay, get an MTNL/BSNL sim-cars for your phone as most places do catch their signal.
• When going to a cold place, always carry en extra pair of woollen socks that can also double up as mittens for when your hands start to get cold.
• Always have some money strapped on your person for if your luggage were to get lost, you can at least get by to a safe location with some money.
• When backpacking, keep it light as you'll only have to carry the bag like dead weight. Backpacking to colder places is better since you can re-wear the same clothes a few times, without sweating in them and feeling mucky.

This post was published by Akriti Paracer

Share this post on social media Facebook Twitter

Related Collections

10 Tips To Make Solo Travel in North East India A Smooth Ride

A Step By Step Guide to Plan A Caravan Trip in India Like Shahrukh Khan In The Movie Swades

Mountain Passes in India

Safest Destinations for Solo Female Travellers in India

Best Spots to Go Paragliding in India

Best Places For Scuba Diving In India

Top Places For Hot Air Balloon Ride in India

River Rafting in India - Best Places & Basic Guide

Best Spots for Rock Climbing in India

12 Highest Motorable Roads In India

Dangerous Roads in India For That Memorable Road Trip

27 Caves in India That are a Must Visit for a History Buff!

Skydiving in India: Feel The Feeling of Free Fall

18 Best Water Parks in India to Travel to this Summer!

7 Best Night Treks in India - For The Nocturnal Adventurists

15 Dangerous Places In India For The Bravehearted

Dolphins in India: 15 Best Places for Dolphin Watching

Best Places to Zipline in India 

Backpacking

15 Things to Experience in India #BeforeIdie

10 Solo Destinations in South India To Break Free From Your Comfort Zone

15 Adventure Sports in India for Every Die Hard Adrenaline Junkie

10 Snow Treks in India For The Best Trekking Adventure of Your Life

Nail Your First Snow Trek in India With These 9 Essential Tips!

10 Best Tiger National Parks in India

Experience The Best Hang Gliding At These Places In India

6 Best Places for Snorkelling in India

Plan The Most Instagrammable Journey of India Through These Cities

Best National Parks of India

Highest Peaks in India For an Amazing Vacay

Longest Bridges In India

Comments on this post

Browse package collections, india package collections.

India Honeymoon Packages

International Honeymoon Packages

International Tour Packages

Honeymoon Packages

India Nepal Tour Packages

All Inclusive Honeymoon Packages

Top Listed Packages

Kerala Munnar Tour Package with Thekkady

Spiti Valley in Summers: 1 Week in Breathtaking Kinnaur & Spiti

5 Days Trip in India: Alleppey, Kovalam & Munnar

3 Days Tour Package in India: Char Dham Yatra By Helicopter

Luxury India Honeymoon Tour Package - Tri-City Tour

Kashmir 8 Days Itinerary: Enthralling Trip with Srinagar Houseboat Stay

3 Nights 4 Days Package in India: Beautiful Rajasthan Tour

Sikkim Tour Package for 5 Days

Himachal Pradesh Itinerary: Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Shimla & Manali

Sikkim Tour Package for Couple - 8 Nights

Gangtok Itinerary of 7 Nights 8 Days Package

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best Private Pool Villas in India

Best Cottages in India

Best Hostels in India

Capsule Hotels in India

Ski Resorts in India

Eco Friendly Resorts in India for Those Who Travel Consciously

Best Heritage Hotels in India for a Royal and Luxurious Stay

By Budget Category

Most Expensive Hotels in India for a Royal Stay

Best Luxury Hotels in India

Best Luxury Resorts in India

By Star Category

Best 5-Star Hotels in India

For Special Purposes

Resorts & Homestays to Work from Mountains in India

Best Yoga Retreats in India

Beautiful Treehouses in India Perfect for a Quick Staycation

Best Beach Resorts in India

Most Romantic Resorts in India

Top Places in India

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

• Travel Guides

10 Best Destinations For A Solo Trip In India

Fuel your wanderlust via a solo trip in India through these places.

Travelling solo is gaining popularity and having a positive impact on the travel industry. A good reason why more people are interested in a solo trip in India is to meet new people and expand their social circle. 

In recent years, a handful of publicised sexual-assault cases in India have provided an example of worst-case scenarios for female travellers. It’s true that India might not be the safest destination for solo female travellers, however, there are pockets that are very safe and worth visiting. Like with any solo travel anywhere in the world, you must take precautions too. With time, patience, and an open-minded attitude, India will reveal its secrets to you. 

Solo travel in India is gaining popularity among the travel community steadily due to the sheer spontaneity that comes with it.  Not only does the country have endless attractions, but it also boasts warm hospitality. Popularly known in India as ‘singles vacations’, India has a huge array of beautiful places to visit, with all kinds of attractions, historic, natural, or cultural. There are beaches and mountains, religious temples and ancient forts. A solo trip in India will challenge, empower, and open your eyes, and always be one for the books.

Also read: How to meet new people when travelling solo

Here’s Our List Of The Best Destinations In India for Solo Trips

1. the city of ruins, hampi.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is also referred to as the city of ruins and is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, a place of historical wonder for solo travelling in India. Hampi is a backpacker’s delight, surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, bustling street markets, and beautiful temples. It is famous for places like the Virupaksha temple, Hampi Vittala and Temple Lotus Palace. Once the capital of the Vijayanagar empire (around 1500 CE), Hampi was the second-largest city in the world. The terrain is surrounded by boulders of different sizes, and you can climb them with a little effort to get a stunning view of the entire city.

Architecture and history fans flock here to explore the remnants of ancient edifices and marvel at their intricate carvings, intriguing rock formations and stone boulders; while nature lovers will fall in love with the scenic landscape and serene atmosphere. Hampi is generally a safe, peaceful place for solo travelling in India. However, you should exercise standard precaution and not wander around the ruins after dark. 

Read more: A guide to all the wonderful things to do and see in Hampi

2. Commonly Known As The ‘Amsterdam Of India’, Kasol

A small village in Himachal situated along the banks of the river Parvati, Kasol is considered one of the best solo trip destinations in India. The breathtakingly beautiful scenery around every bend will nourish your eyes and soul, while a plethora of treks, rafting and water sports will satiate the thrill-seeker in you. Places like Kheerganga, Malana and Tosh village in Kasol are famous for trekking. Kasol is well-known as the ‘Amsterdam of India’ for its crazy psychedelic trance parties that happen here from time to time and for its hippie culture. Also, this place is full of international tourists and backpackers, who are warm and welcoming, so you’re sure to make a few friends. It’s a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers in Himachal. Although Kasol is a very safe place for solo travelling, you should not roam around in the streets alone at night. 

3. The French Riviera Of The East, Pondicherry

Officially known as Puducherry, Pondicherry is one of the seven union territories of India. A dreamy escape for solo travelling in India, it offers the best of both worlds. This former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of traditional Indian sensibilities and French architecture.

Known as White Town, the streets of the French Quarter of Pondicherry are dotted with charming mustard-yellow colonial structures. Fringed by authentic French bakeries, the cobble-stoned paths are delightful for a leisurely stroll or even a bicycle ride. 

The quaint little town has something to offer to adventure seekers as well. Karaikal Beach and Paradise Beach are renowned for their water sports activities such as kayaking, jet-skiing, canoeing and backwater sailing. Scuba diving is also organised in Pondicherry, under the supervision of trained instructors. It is a perfect destination for solo travellers who want to combine history, art, and culture with a beach vacation. The town is safe and easy to get around, and the locals are amicable and helpful. 

Read more: Amazing places to visit in Pondicherry

4. The Hidden Treasure Of Kerala, Varkala

Varkala is a coastal town in the southern part of Kerala known for its unique 15-metre-high ‘North Cliff’ adjacent to the Arabian Sea. It’s a famous spot for a solo trip in India, known for its laid-back culture, and the shacks on the cliff playing music and serving great seafood. It’s also known for being the samadhi of Kerala’s saint Sree Narayana Guru. It has some of the most pristine beaches, lush hills, beautiful lakes, forts, lighthouses, natural fisheries and springs—all of this together makes this town ideal for solo travelling in India.

You can relax and sunbathe on Varkala Beach (also known as Papanasam Beach), soak in beautiful sunset vistas, indulge in water sports, marvel at the historical Anjengo Fort, enjoy boating in the picturesque Kappil Lake, and visit one of its many religious centres and temples. Make sure you check out the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea— they’re truly a sight to behold. Varkala is altogether a safe and friendly town where you can meet other solo travellers to explore the area. The people here are very friendly, and don’t bother anyone unless you need help.

Also read: An exciting travel guide of beautiful places to visit in Kerala

5. Hub Of Palm Clad Beaches, Gokarna

Situated on the coast of Karwar with its pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Gokarna is one of the seven important Hindu pilgrimage centres in Karnataka and a new-found hub for beach lovers and solo travellers.  Over the past few years, Gokarna has become an important tourist destination owing to its alluring beaches that promise a peaceful vacation leaving behind the tourist rush of Goa. There is a famous quartet of beaches in Gokarna—Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Half-moon Beach and Paradise Beach.

Some of these, like Half Moon and Paradise, can only be reached by a trek or a boat ride. The main forms of leisure include indulging in the beautiful view of the Arabian Sea, stargazing at night, and other activities like water sports, snorkelling, parasailing and boat rides. The people here are kind and helpful and it is a safe place for solo travellers. Solo travelling to Gokarna also gives you a great opportunity to meet new people of different nationalities. There are cottages and guest houses where you can live like a backpacker, chilling on hammocks, and enjoying the balmy weather. 

Also read: Finding joy in the little things at Gokarna

6. Yoga Capital Of The World, Rishikesh

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga river, Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, located close to Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes and as the “Yoga Capital of the World” for its various kinds of yoga and meditation classes. As the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, Rishikesh is also a pilgrimage town and considered a holy place for Hindus. It became known worldwide in the 1960s after The Beatles visited the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, now renowned as The Beatles Ashram, which beckons solo travellers globally. The tranquil town has long been a spiritual centre but is now equally popular for white water rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking and camping. These adrenaline pumping activities all take place along the fast-flowing Ganges and have attracted backpackers and solo travellers over the years. In the first week of March, the International Yoga Festival is organised here which welcomes yoga enthusiasts from all over the globe. Being a revered pilgrimage site and one of the best solo trip destinations in India , Rishikesh is quite safe to travel in, and you can meet other solo travellers who visit from all over the world. However, one should always be  street smart.

7. The City Of Lakes, Udaipur

Surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli Hills, Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is the crown jewel of Rajasthan. It has an abundance of breathtaking architecture, mesmerising temples and natural beauty which makes it a must-visit destination in India. Udaipur is the pride of Rajasthan, and a boat ride through the serene waters of Lake Pichola will be enough to prove to you why. If you are considering a solo trip in India, this place should definitely top your list. You can do a lot of things in Udaipur—enjoy peaceful cold nights, visit ancient forts and markets, sit by the side of the lake and sip hot tea. Although Udaipur is regarded as being safe for solo travelling, it is advisable to avoid dimly lit areas at night.

8. Host To The Biggest Camel Fair In The World, Pushkar 

Pushkar is a small temple town amid the Aravalli range, located around 15 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan. Every November, Pushkar plays host to one of the biggest camel fairs in the world, Pushkar Mela. It attracts millions of solo travellers from around the world. With folk performances, rides, stalls and even magic shows, the entire town is lit up. Music blares from every house, and everyone is in a festive mood. Pushkar is also known for having the world’s only dedicated Brahma temple, and is, therefore, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Spending evenings sitting at the ghats while sipping chai, or taking a stroll through the town’s narrow alleys while listening to the chants from temples is what gives this place its unique atmosphere. It has slowly evolved from being a religious destination to a multi-cultural hotspot with solo travellers from all over the world coming for the colourful mela . You can also go on a hot air balloon ride.  It is one of the best solo trip destinations in India for those who want to experience authentic, rural Indian life and culture, especially if you visit during the camel fair. Pushkar is a small town where people know people, so it is pretty safe for solo travelling. 

9. Scotland Of The East, Shillong

Named after an idol, Lei Shyllong, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is a beautiful city encircled by pine trees. This hill station is known as the ‘Scotland of the East’ for its picturesque landscape similar to the highlands and its soothing climate, making it an ideal spot to visit all year round.  The exquisite mountain peaks, numerous waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, and breathtakingly beautiful golf courses are some of key reasons why people mark Shillong as one of the best solo trip destinations in India. As many prominent Indian musicians also hail from this place, it is also known as the music capital of India. Several music festivals and events are held throughout the year, making it very culturally vibrant. Shillong is relatively a safe place to solo travel but you should avoid certain areas after dark. 

10. India’s Honeymoon Capital, Manali

Manali is a popular hill station for a solo trip in India nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. With lush green forests, jaw-dropping views, gushing blue streams, sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers, and a perpetual fairy-tale like mist lingering in the air, Manali has been blessed with scenic beauty unparalleled by any other. From museums to temples, river adventures to trekking trails, quaint little hippie villages to bustling upscale streets—Manali has every reason to be the top destination for solo travelling in India, all year round. You can recreate your own eat, pray, and love journey in Manali. You can try snow sports like paragliding, skiing, biking, etc., or trek through the snowy terrains, and enjoy peaceful moments on the slopes of the Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley. Manali is considered to be a safe place for solo travelling and people there are very friendly. However as with all solo travel, travel smart and be cautious. 

Read more: 22 places to visit in and around Manali

Why Should You Travel Solo?

The experience of solo travelling is best described by what Henry David Thoreau said, “The man who goes alone can start today, but he who travels with another must wait till that other is ready.” One of the main reasons why people opt for a solo trip in India is for a  challenge, to try something different, move out of their comfort zone. When you set out to travel, always ensure you are well-versed in the place before you venture out. You should read blogs, do the required research, and find out more from people who have already visited. Getting to know the place beforehand will prepare you for any unwelcome surprises. 

Solo travel is an opportunity to explore one’s personality too, just as one would explore the world, away from all the stress and hustle of daily life. It’s a chance for you to break free from a monotonous routine, and introspect on your thoughts, dreams, strengths and limitations. 

Also read: 21 tips for solo female travellers

Awesome I enjoyed reading your blog post. The places listed here are too good.

You provided the best information and highlighted the top solo Karnataka tourist destinations. If you want stay in this beautiful place, connect with us to book a luxurious stay at evolveback kabini.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Best of India

Discover more about the vibrance, richness and variety of India from anywhere in the world. Soak in the stories and the history of this beautiful country and experience the most charming places that sing stories of centuries old traditions and customs that make India the rich land of culture that it is.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Should Women Travel Alone in India?

Exploring India solo requires taking certain precautions and sacrificing small freedoms. But it’s worth it!

“In my experience, India’s one of the safest and most accommodating countries for solo women travelers,” journalist and Portland resident Margot Bigg says to me. I’m surprised by the statement; I expected a more negative response to my question about Margot’s experiences traveling in India . The country has a dubious rep as an unsafe destination for solo women travelers. Among the tumult of impressions, large population, heat, dust, and noise that new visitors to India must deal with, solo women travelers also have to reckon with concerns about safety.

“I do stay somewhat on guard,” Margot adds, “but being a woman also gets me special access.” There are reserved areas for women on public transport, separate women’s queues at ticket counters, and family spaces in highway restaurants. Of course, it is problematic that these are needed at all, but that’s a larger battle being fought by the women of India.

People also tend to trust women more, bringing them into the fold of families and larger groups. Margot recounts an experience from her first trip to India, as a wide-eyed 23-year-old. “On a train from Jaipur to Ajmer, I met a family of three generations of women, with babies and toddlers in tow. We formed an immediate sisterhood through gestures and smiles. By the end of it, I was wearing their bangles, helping bounce the babies, and being fed more than I could eat.”

Like Margot, my solo travel experiences have been overwhelmingly positive. I’m an Indian. But India is so vast, with so many different cultures and traditions, that it is impossible to talk about it as one place. In over a decade of exploring, I’ve only uncovered a minute part of my chaotic, beautiful nation. In many parts of it, I am as much a foreigner as a visitor from another country.

Khajuraho, a historical town in Madhya Pradesh, boasts 10th-century sculpted temples depicting every aspect of life from war to prayer to sexuality.

Uncovering Many Indias as a Solo Traveler

The first time I traveled alone in India, I was 21 and fresh out of college. I had a hard time convincing my parents to get onboard with the plan. They relented when I shared my detailed itinerary, and promised to call every other day. Twelve years later, it is a practice I still follow.

The trip was a revelation. My destination was Khajuraho, a historical town in Madhya Pradesh with 10th-century sculpted temples depicting every aspect of life from war to prayer to sexuality. I knew India was diverse, but on that trip, I realized just what the word meant. As a city-bred girl who worked, travelled alone, and wasn’t married by 21, I was such an unlikely sight in that temple town in the heart of India, that it was easier for people to believe I was a foreigner. I had more in common with two German travelers I met than the daughters and wives of the shop owners and guides I chatted with.

Their curiosity made it easier for me to get over my diffidence about striking conversations with strangers. I wound up with an invitation from a local raja to visit his estate and watch rural games that he organizes. A group of young boys took me on a cycling tour of their village, giving me a chance to discover how bits of ancient sculptures that farmers turn over in the fields become part of their homes as living heritage. I learnt a lesson that has stayed with me ever since: travel is nothing without chance conversations. They lend perspective and context to my experience of a destination; and are also the best way to get great insider tips on places to eat and explore that only the locals know about.

That trip was the first of many solo explorations. Without the filter of family and friends, I engage more deeply with a destination and its people. And the more I travel, the more I discover the many Indias that make up my country.

Can I have a Photo, Madam?

Sometimes, just like any foreigner, I am asked to pose for photographs. I’m camera shy, but often I oblige, making the person who asked me pose as well. I asked Anja Froehnel, a repeat visitor to India from Germany, if that happens to her a lot. “Frequently! If they ask nicely, with a smile and real interest, I say yes. After two weeks though, it becomes a burden.” Then she has a fun way of dealing with the situation. “I start telling people I charge for photos and ask for ten rupees. That usually ends the conversation pretty quickly,” she says.

Being the object of unwanted attention, even when it is not malicious in intent, can be unsettling.

Do such incidents cause safety concerns? Not really, Margot says. “There are so many people around all the time, making it feel safer. You could be out in the middle of the Thar Desert, minding your own business and, if you give it long enough, you're sure to cross paths with someone. Or at least stumble upon a chaiwallah. ”

Unlike Anja and Margot, some visitors chafe at the constant scrutiny. Hamburg resident Anja Dunkel, who lived and worked in Mumbai for several years, and has visited ever winter since then, dislikes being asked to take photos. “In the holiest of places, people seem to be more mesmerized by the fact that I’m a white woman than by any historic sight. I don't run around with a selfie stick so I can absorb the experience of being in a place. So naturally, I also don't want to take pictures with strangers.” Being the object of unwanted attention, even when it is not malicious in intent, can be unsettling.

Perks of Being a Solo Woman Traveler

Anja loves, however, that people are quick to treat her as a friend or welcome guest rather than an unwanted stranger. Photographer Meesha Holley, of mixed Indian and British descent, agrees. She recounts a time when a young girl hailed her in Kaza, Spiti. “She asked me where I was from and what I was taking photos of, posed for a portrait, and then, taking me completely by surprise, invited me home to show me more of her culture.” Back in the young girl’s house, Meesha met her brother and sister. Though their parents were away, the children didn’t hesitate to show her around their home.

Not only do people trust women more, they also tend to be more protective of them. Often, on road trips through the Himalayas, where it’s hard to predict how long a journey on the winding roads will take, my hosts at the destination have called me to check on my progress, and even asked to speak to the driver so he knows that someone is keeping tab. It’s also why public shaming can be useful tactic when unpleasant situations arise. If someone threatens your personal space, tell them off loudly. Others will intervene to ensure the troublemaker is quickly gone. A lot of people in India speak English, so you’ll usually find someone you can communicate with.

Some women recommend steering clear of "party spots," often beach towns, altogether.

In Times of Trouble

There are, however, rare occasions when things go wrong and no one else is around. Confronted with harassment in such a situation, Meesha found her camera handy. On a visit to Varkala, a beach town in Kerala, she was propositioned by a belligerent fisherman, who wanted to know how much she’d charge. “I turned back, quickly lifted my camera in his direction, and shouted: You're sick! I'm taking your photo to the police! He quickly began to walk away.”

Many solo women travelers, whether Indian or foreign, have had similar experiences. A quick poll among the women I know revealed that such incidents tend to happen in places that are considered "party spots", often beaches. Large parts of India are predominantly patriarchal, and while much has changed for women in terms of opportunities and access, mindsets are slower to change. Certain actions are considered “unbecoming” for women in Indian culture. Drinking alcohol, dancing with men, staying out late, wearing small clothes rank high among them. Women who do these things, it is believed, must be immoral and “available”. In fact, as Meesha points out, Indian women are judged more harshly in this paradigm. “Just the fact that an Indian woman is travelling solo is often taken to mean that she is reckless and has loose morals,” she says. In such places, there will be that one man in a hundred, who thinks it’s okay to proposition a lone woman. It’s best to be accompanied by other people while stepping away from the tourist zone, or after dark.

Everybody has a Strategy

Like me, all the female travelers I spoke to have evolved strategies to stay safe when they travel alone. They dress conservatively, avoid venturing out alone after dark except in well-lit tourist areas, and keep their phones handy. Some carry pepper spray or tasers.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Anja has one more strategy: She avoids big cities. “The unpleasant things about India, the poverty, dirt, noise, crowd, and traffic, are most evident in the cities. When I go beyond, I find the India I keep coming back for. A place of astonishing color, temples, music, culture, nature, and people. India has so many faces and so much for a visitor to discover.”

She ends with a line she’s heard travelers use for India: India is the last country you should visit. After this, no other place will be more interesting, crazy, and beautiful, all at the same time.

I have to agree.

More Tips For Travelling Solo

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that everybody should travel to India. It’s a remarkable country; one that is bound to leave a traveler changed by the experience. And exploring solo is a great way to do it. It only requires taking certain precautions that may sound daunting when put in a list like the one below but are quite simple. In fact, these are precautions I follow wherever I travel, from Southeast Asia to South America.

• Like in other countries, it pays to learn a few words in the local language . Nothing disarms a curious bystander more than a greeting in their own language.
• Dress conservatively. That doesn’t mean you need to be covered head to toe; but shorts paired with a tank top are not advisable. Loose cotton clothing that breathes and shields from skin burn works better for the weather too. Keep a scarf handy in your back for additional cover-up if needed in some situations.
• I tend to pick reputed homestays when I travel because that lends a personal touch to the experience, ensuring I have an ally in a destination even before I get there. Alternatively, if your destination has an affordable hotel by a reputable chain, book the first night there so you have a safe landing spot to launch your explorations from.
• Don’t compromise on your safety to save money. If I try to book the cheapest room I can get in NYC, I’ll probably end up in a seedy neighborhood where trouble lurks around the corner. The same applies to India: Do your research and go for a recommended place.
• Keep a friend or family member apprised of your travel plans. Create a system to check in regularly, say once in three days. Even a Whatsapp message or Facebook post will do the trick. Get a local SIM card with data for your phone, it doesn’t cost much.
• In most places, it is best not to venture out alone after dark. While booking flights, trains, and buses, choose options that get you to your destination in daylight. If its unavoidable have someone from your hotel/homestay come meet you.
• If you’re alone in a cab or a rickshaw and the driver tries to take a friend along, say no. If they don’t agree, get a different taxi/rickshaw.
• Most public transport has spaces just for women; look for these. Even in restaurants, you’ll find “Family Section”. Head straight for those. Added benefit: These usually have air conditioning, though the food costs marginally more.
• Most staring is just curiosity. Try to ignore it. If it bothers you, politely tell the person not too. If it persists, and you feel trouble is lurking, don’t hesitate to make a loud scene.
• Eve-teasing , a phrase you’ll hear often in India to refer to the harassment of women, is often the realm of weak, sexually repressed men who try to take advantage of crowded spaces to cop a feel. As college girls, my friends and I learnt to wear our backpacks in front to prevent “accidental” brushing. And we didn’t hesitate to elbow any man who pressed too close and then blame it on the swerving bus.
• You can also dial 100, the number for the police that works across India. Several big cities and tourist spots, have squads dedicated to addressing women’s safety concerns. However, their response time can be erratic.

And if all this sounds too overwhelming, do remember, these precautions are only meant to protect you in the off chance that something nasty happens. Have a good time, and have plenty of conversations; they’ll make your trip extra special. Most Indians are welcoming, chatty, and happy to share their life stories. Go for it, ladies!

Related Topics

• PEOPLE AND CULTURE

You May Also Like

Cleopatra IS brat? These 5 women in history were the OG brat girls

This sunny German city should top your summer travel list

Become a subscriber and support our award-winning editorial features, videos, photography, and much more..

For as little as $2/mo.

The best gifts for women who love travel and adventure

Photo story: a pilgrimage to the rock-hewn temples of Hampi, India

Himalayan hiking for beginners: birdlife and village stays in India's Kumaon Hills

8 powerful ways to support and champion women on your travels.

Onboard India's desert train: from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Women solo group travel to India

Travel to india.

An enormous country with a population of over 1.4 billion people, India is a colorful land with landscapes as diverse as the towering Himalayas to the jungle reserves in the north, the world’s biggest mangrove forests, and the tranquil palm-fringed beaches of Kerala. You could spend a year exploring India and still miss half of it. 

Jaipur, the Pink City

Named for its pink buildings, Jaipur is renowned for its splendid palaces and historic forts. Stroll through the opulent City Palace, explore the majestic Amber Fort, and marvel at the Hawa Mahal’s intricate architecture. Enjoy unique shopping experiences in the bustling bazaars. Look out for traditional textiles, jewelry, and crafts. 

Feast Your Eyes on the Beautiful Taj Mahal

One of the world’s most iconic monuments, the marbled Taj Mahal in Agra is a monument to love built by emperor Shah Jahan for his cherished wife. Often described as a "teardrop on the cheek of time,” the monument’s breathtaking beauty and the love story behind its creation make visiting an unforgettable experience.

An Indian Safari

Explore India’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. India has over 100 national parks where you can find Bengal tigers in the jungles of Ranthambore or Kanha. The latter was the setting of Rudyard Kipling’s “Jungle Book”. Photograph elephants, leopards, single-horn rhinos, Asiatic lions, and hundreds of bird species in India’s many diverse landscapes. Often parks are close to historic sites and traditional villages allowing you to combine culture and wildlife experiences.

Our upcoming trips to India

November 3 - 10 2025 · 7 nights

A Pilgrimage to India

"To other countries, I may go as a tourist, but to India, I come as a pilgrim." - Martin Luther King

Group trips for solo women travelers to India

India can overwhelm and enchant in equal measure. Here, every corner reveals something new and unexpected. This is a country with a history that spans thousands of years, as reflected in its ancient cities, fortresses, and temples. Rajasthan, with its opulent palaces and formidable forts, offers a glimpse into India’s royal past. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur are filled with architectural marvels and busy markets.

India’s natural beauty is as diverse as its culture. In the north, the Himalayas boast some of Earth’s most spectacular landscapes, great for hiking, mountaineering, and spiritual retreats. The dramatic mountain scenery, Buddhist monasteries, and unique culture of Ladakh, known as the "Land of High Passes," are legendary. Kerala’s backwaters provide a serene escape, with its network of canals, rivers, and lakes, best explored from traditional houseboats, surrounded by lush tea plantations.

For many travelers, India’s spiritual heritage is a major attraction. Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, is a Hindu sacred site. Experiencing an evening aarti (a Hindu ritual) on the ghats of the Ganges River is a deeply moving experience.

Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," a center for yoga, meditation, and spiritual learning. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, the holiest site for Sikhs, is a serene retreat with a community kitchen serving free meals to thousands daily, embodying the spirit of service and devotion.

Faqs about trips to India

What unique cultural experiences can i expect in india.

Visit sacred sites like Varanasi, the holy city on the banks of the Ganges, or Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment. Encounter deep spiritual experiences, and rituals, and a chance to learn about India’s religious traditions.

Savor India’s spicy cuisine. Each region has its distinct flavors and dishes. Enjoy street food and learn how to cook traditional Indian meals.

What should I pack for a trip to India?

Expect a relatively conservative culture in India so the dress code tends to run along similar lines. Wear pants or mid-length skirts and dresses. Knees and shoulders should be covered in the more conservative rural areas.

Temperatures may vary extensively depending on the area you visit and the time of year. It is very hot and wet in much of the country between April and October, so most visitors arrive from November to March when the weather is more comfortable.

Choose light and airy clothes, a light jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Pack something smart for fine dining and theater visits. A bathing suit, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen will serve you for beach visits and around the pool.

A lightweight scarf always comes in handy to cover your head and shoulders in temples and visits to other more conservative spaces.

What are some must-see destinations in India?

The Taj Mahal in Agra, the vibrant Pink City of Jaipur, and the spiritual city of Varanasi and Rishikesh are essential stops. Explore Kerala's tranquil backwaters, the wildlife of Ranthambore National Park, and Goa's pristine beaches. For adventure, visit the Himalayan beauty of Ladakh, and for history, discover the ancient ruins of Hampi and the romantic lakes of Udaipur.

Do travelers need a visa to enter India?

All travelers need a visa to enter India. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after you depart India. You can usually get an e-visa within three days of applying.

What currency is used in India, and should I exchange money before arriving?

India’s currency is the Indian rupee, one of the world’s oldest continuously used currencies. The Indian rupee is a closed currency so you can’t exchange your currency to the Indian rupee until you’re in the country. There are ATMs in all major cities and at the airport. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are widely accepted by most Indian businesses.  

Are there any vaccination requirements for entering India?

Ensure that your normal vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, and Diphtheria vaccinations are also advised.

Inquire about this trip

Travel Solo: 7 Weekend Getaways In India For Unforgettable Memories

Travelling solo is an experience like no other. It allows you to explore new places at your own pace, reflect on life, and make countless memories along the way. India, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers some of the best destinations for a solo getaway. Whether you're seeking peace amidst nature or a vibrant city escape, there's something for every solo traveller. Here’s a list of the top 7 destinations in India to visit over the weekend and create memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: For Adventure and Serenity Rishikesh, known as the 'Yoga Capital of the World'," is a perfect blend of adventure and spirituality. Located along the banks of the Ganges, this town offers everything from white-water rafting and bungee jumping to peaceful ashrams and yoga retreats. Solo travellers flock to Rishikesh for its calm vibes, friendly locals, and opportunities to meet like-minded adventurers. Whether you’re meditating by the river or trekking through the surrounding hills, Rishikesh will leave you rejuvenated.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan: A Royal Retreat For those seeking a more culturally immersive solo trip, Udaipur in Rajasthan offers the perfect mix of history, art, and royal charm. Known as the 'City of Lakes', Udaipur is filled with beautiful palaces, vibrant markets, and stunning lakeside views. Wander through the City Palace, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, or explore the narrow lanes lined with traditional Rajasthani crafts. Udaipur’s rich cultural heritage makes it a great destination for solo travellers interested in history and architecture.

3. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh: A Spiritual Escape Mcleodganj, home to the Dalai Lama and a large Tibetan community, is a serene escape nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh. Ideal for a peaceful weekend getaway, this town offers a chance to explore Tibetan culture, visit monasteries, and trek to scenic spots like Triund. The peaceful environment, combined with opportunities for spiritual growth and adventure, makes Mcleodganj a favourite among solo travellers seeking solitude and inspiration.

4. Hampi, Karnataka: Where History Comes Alive If you're a history buff, Hampi is a must-visit solo travel destination. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with ancient temples, boulders, and ruins, takes you back in time to the days of the Vijayanagara Empire. Solo travellers can explore the rich history, cycle through the scenic landscapes, and visit iconic spots like the Virupaksha Temple. The laid-back vibe of Hampi, combined with its historical significance, makes it a perfect weekend escape for those looking to explore India’s past.

5. Pondicherry: A French-Inspired Coastal Getaway Pondicherry, with its French colonial architecture, charming cafes, and serene beaches, offers a tranquil weekend retreat for solo travellers. The town is small and easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Whether you're wandering through the French Quarter, enjoying a peaceful afternoon at a beachside café, or meditating at Auroville, Pondicherry offers a unique mix of culture and relaxation. The coastal beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place to reflect and rejuvenate.

6. Jaipur, Rajasthan: The Pink City Awaits Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is a solo traveller’s paradise. Known as the 'Pink City', it boasts magnificent forts, palaces, and vibrant markets. Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, explore the Amer Fort, and indulge in local Rajasthani cuisine at one of the many street stalls. Jaipur’s welcoming people and rich heritage make it a great destination for solo adventurers looking to dive into India’s royal history while making unforgettable memories.

7. Gokarna, Karnataka: A Peaceful Beach Retreat If you’re looking for a quieter beach destination than the bustling shores of Goa, Gokarna is the perfect spot. This small coastal town offers pristine beaches, tranquil sunsets, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for a solo weekend escape. Spend your time relaxing on Om Beach, exploring hidden coves, or practising yoga by the sea. Gokarna’s peaceful environment and natural beauty make it an excellent destination for solo travellers seeking a refreshing, soul-soothing getaway.

Embrace the Freedom of Solo Travel Travelling solo in India opens the door to a world of adventure, self-discovery, and countless memories. Each destination offers something unique, from the spiritual calm of Mcleodganj to the historical allure of Hampi. Whether you’re looking to explore vibrant cities, embrace nature, or reflect in peaceful surroundings, India has a weekend getaway that suits every solo traveller’s desires. Pack your bags, head to one of these incredible destinations, and create memories that will stay with you forever.

Winter is perfect for solo travel in India, with nice weather and special experiences. Here are 9 top places to explore on your solo trip.

09 Sep, 2024

Kumar Utkarsh

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - Known for its spiritual ambiance and adventure activities. Enjoy yoga retreats, meditation sessions, and thrilling river rafting.

Udaipur, rajasthan - the "city of lakes" offers stunning palaces, beautiful lakes, and vibrant markets. it’s perfect for solo travelers who enjoy history and culture., auli, uttarakhand - a great spot for solo travelers interested in skiing and snowboarding. auli’s serene environment is ideal for reflection and adventure., mcleod ganj, himachal pradesh - known for its tibetan culture, monasteries, and hiking trails. it's a peaceful retreat with opportunities for self-discovery., goa - beyond its bustling beaches, goa offers quieter spots and a laid-back vibe perfect for solo exploration, relaxation, and enjoying the vibrant local culture., jaipur, rajasthan - the "pink city" is rich in architectural wonders and historical sites. solo travelers can explore forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars., alleppey, kerala - famous for its backwaters and houseboat stays. it's a tranquil destination for solo travelers to unwind and enjoy the scenic beauty of kerala., pondicherry - with its french colonial architecture and serene beaches, pondicherry offers a peaceful escape and a chance to explore charming cafes and boutiques., darjeeling: known for its stunning views of the himalayas and tea gardens. it’s a great destination for solo travelers looking for a blend of nature and culture..

Thanks For Reading!

Next: 7 Affordable Hill Stations Near Mumbai For A Quick Weekend Getaway