India is a whimsical beauty for solo travellers. Every 100 kilometres, the landscape, cultures, and the dialect changes. It’s a huge country and one can traverse through this beautiful country and cherish its natural wonders, historical sites, religious festivals and warm hospitality throughout. A journey to India is a lifetime experience and will certainly enrich your soul with lifetime memories.
India being a vast country with diverse geographies, history and heritage, offers a tapestry of experiences and plenty of places to travel. For a superb solo travel experience, here is a list of our favourite destinations –
HAMPI- THE PRIDE OF VIJAYNAGAR EMPIRE
Hampi is a beautiful ancient town in Karnataka and is a gateway to India’s glorious history. It was the capital of the Vijaynagar Empire and a tour to this place is a bliss for every visitor. The stories of Hampi date back to the years 1336 and beyond. The group of monuments, old temples in Hampi are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer a deep insight into India’s heritage. For a solo traveller, Hampi offers scenic beauty, cultural heritage, laid-back city and hippie lifestyle. Hampi can be travelled well in 2 days.
RISHIKESH- THE YOGA CAPITAL OF INDIA
Rishikesh is a city on the banks of River Ganga in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is one of the major spiritual centres in India and a prime pilgrimage for the Hindus. The city is also admired for its serene beauty, river-side views, and its association with Yoga. The city is called the ‘Yoga capital of the World’ and one can indulge well into meditation and other yogic practices. Rishikesh is one of the top picks for solo travellers from India and abroad.
KASOL- AMSTERDAM OF THE EAST
Kasol is a small yet beautiful hill town in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The town has earned the likes of nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The beautiful lush-green mountains and tranquillity escapes you from the hustle-bustle of city life. Kasol is one of the top picks for solo travellers known for its natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle and vibrant backpack culture. Whether you seek solitude, cultural exchange, or thrilling hikes, Kasol promises an unforgettable experience.
MANALI & MANIKARAN
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and pristine clean river, Manali is one of the top tourist destinations in India. The place offers spectacular view points, adventure activities like Paragliding, and Skiing. Some of the major attractions in Manali are Rohtang Pass, Atal Tunnel, Hidimba Temple and Sabali (a popular bakery in Manali).
Just a short drive from Manali, there is Manikaran, a spiritual place known for Hot springs, Sikh and Hindu temples.
Both the places, when explored together, offer a perfect getaway to the Himalayan towns filled with a blend of adventure and tranquillity.
UDAIPUR- VENICE OF THE EAST
Udaipur is a charming city admired for its beautiful lakes, palaces, quaint beautiful streets, paintings and museums. If you travel solo to this city, you’ll have a lovely time here exploring the historic City Palace, lakeside views from Lake Pichola and Lake Fatehsagar. Similarly, the Vintage Car Museum and Sajjangarh Palace have their own charm.
JAIPUR – THE SHELL PINK GLOW
Jaipur is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the most beautiful cities in India and is also called the ‘Pink city of India’. The city got this name because the Jaipur Old city is all cladded with a unique shade of red, pink and orange. When looked at collectively, the jaipur old city looks like a unique symphony which can only be experienced in the present. It was the first planned city of India.
For a free solo traveller, the city has amazing delicacies to be cherished, royal forts, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and more.
DELHI – THE CAPITAL CITY
India’s capital city New Delhi is one of the unique places in the country. Along with being a major metropolitan city, it is also one of the oldest cities in the country. Hence, you get a picture perfect historic places to visit, museums, parks and more. Unlike other major metropolises of the world, Delhi is largely pocket-friendly with good connectivity all around. If you are planning a Solo Delhi tour soon, don’t forget to visit these iconic places –
- Humayun’s Tomb
- India Gate
- Red Fort
- Qutub Minar
- Lodhi Art District
- Hauz Khas Village
- National Gallery of Modern Art
- Lotus Temple
- Connaught Place
- Akshardham Temple
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
AGRA – THE CITY OF TAJ
The world famous Taj Mahal is in Agra and it makes the city more interesting and intriguing for every visitor. The Taj Mahal is so beautiful that you will be amused by experiencing the impeccable beauty of it. The architectural style, the story behind its construction and everything around it is very intriguing and exciting. Taj Mahal sightseeing can be done in two ways. One is the Same Day Agra tour from Delhi and the other is the Overnight Agra Tour. In the latter one, you can experience the beauty of Taj Mahal during the sunrise (the best possible views of the Taj Mahal).
JAISALMER – GOLDEN DUSK
Jaisalmer is a beautiful city in Rajasthan known for its Sonakira Fort. Jaisalmer Fort is also known as Sonakira (Golden Fort) because it rises from the desert itself and appears to be one with the golden colour of the sand. The setting sun adds its own magic and covers the fortress with mysticism. The fort was built by local artisans in the classic royal style. This fortress is a World Heritage Site and is the main plot point of Satyajit Ray’s famous Felder story and the related movie Sonar Kella. Visiting Rajasthan is about visiting the Fort and then exploring the places closely emerging out of its transcendent glory.
JODHPUR – HOLY BLUE
Located close to Thar Desert, Jodhpur is undeniably the pride of the north-western state of Rajasthan. It is known as the blue city because of it’s blue coloured houses. Its 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort is a former palace that’s now a museum, displaying weapons, paintings and elaborate royal palanquins (sedan chairs). Set on a rocky outcrop, the fort overlooks the walled city and is worth visiting. Moreover, the pyaaz kachoris and the laal maas here are worth relishing.
SHILLONG – SCOTLAND OF THE EAST
Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is a charming hill station in Meghalaya that captivates visitors with its undulating hills, beautiful waterfalls, and serene lakes. The city exudes an influx of modernity and old-world charm, with British colonial architecture coexisting harmoniously with the vibrant Khasi culture.
The picturesque Ward’s Lake, the sacred Elephant Falls, and the viewpoint from Shillong Peak are just a few of the attractions that make Shillong an enchanting destination. The pleasant climate, rich cultural tapestry, and warm hospitality of the locals contribute to Shillong’s allure.
PUSHKAR – SPIRITUALITY AT IT’S PEAK
Pushkar is a tiny religious town in Rajasthan located around 15 kilometres from Ajmer. Pushkar Mela, one of the world’s largest camel fairs, takes place every November. Millions of single travellers from all over the world visit.
The entire town is illuminated with folk performances, rides, kiosks, and even magic acts. Every house is filled with music, and everyone is in a joyous mood. Pushkar is also notable for housing the world’s only dedicated Brahma temple, making it a major Hindu pilgrimage site.
Evenings spent lounging on the ghats sipping chai or strolling through the town’s tiny alleys listening to temple chants are what make this area special.
VARKALA – NORTH CLIFF
This is a coastal area in Kerela known for it’s ‘North Cliff’. The place is very famous for it’s cliff shacks which serve best seafood and music.
It is known for its laid-back culture. 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 also go to beaches and forts that make this place a worth spot for solo travellers.
MUMBAI – CITY OF DREAMS
Mumbai is the city of dreams! The major metropolis is the economic capital of India and one of the most happening cities in India. As a free solo traveller, the city will excite you in many ways.
The generosity of the people, Vada Pav, skyline, the sea and the three UNESCO sites of Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, the grand Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, and the Elephanta Caves heritage.
Along with being the economic capital of India, Mumbai is the entertainment capital and home to India’s cinema, Bollywood. Some of the most iconic places to visit in Mumbai are:
- Elephanta Caves
- Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station
- Marine Drive
- Colaba Causeway (for shopping)
- Gateway of India
- Film City
GANGTOK – PLAYGROUND FOR THE ADVENTOROUS
For all those Sagittarius spirited out there this Sikkim Himalayan region is known for it’s adventure activities and eye-catching vistas. Trekking, mountain biking, paragliding and rafting on the Teesta River and momos at the nearest local market are pure delights.
If that’s not enough, plan a yak safari along its rugged terrain. Everything in Gangtok is relatively affordable from staying in hilltop hotels to exploring marketplaces. So, a heist is not necessary when travelling alone to Gnagtok!
PONDICHERRY – FRENCH VISTA
Formerly known as Puducherry, this is the French Capital of India where you have a lot to do and explore. From it’s picturesque beaches to unset spots, Pondicherry is ideal for solo trips.
The city’s cobbled streets are dotted with monuments of French style and is sure to leave one in awe of it. Moreover, the food available here is a pure amalgamation of French toasts and Dosa Sambhar.
Conclusion
India is geographically rich and offers a plethora of places ideal for a solo travel! The above mentioned places are some of the best ones and are largely visited by solo travellers and backpackers alike!
If you’re someone looking for a solo excursion, do consider these places. Further, feel free to consult our travel advisor for more recommendations and services.
