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
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
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.
Best Time: October to March
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
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
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.
Best Time: Throughout the year
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.
Best Time: October to March
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.
Best Time: October to March
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
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
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: October to March
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.
Best Time: October to June
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.
Best Time: October to March
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
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.
Best Time: October to June
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
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.
Best Time: October to March
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.
Best Time: Throughout the year
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.
Best Time: Throughout the year
21. Chalal
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.