I love hearing stories from fellow travellers and draw inspiration from them as well. Some travel solo like me, while others explore the country & the world with friends/family/others. This is a guest post from Akansha Negi, an enthusiastic travel writer. She shares intersting insights from her escapades on her blog.
Traveling solo is an eye-opening experience that promotes introspection, feeds your passions, and make you come out of your comfort zone. Far from the opinions of company, you can revel in the freedom to follow your own rules, design your own itinerary and pamper in your own choices of travel. How about starting your solo sojourn from India? From the serene ‘Yoga Capital’ to the lively ‘Party Capital’, here are the top 10 enthralling destinations which are better explored solo.
1) Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the foothills of Himalayas, Rishikesh is a serene city in Uttarakhand. Owning the sobriquet like ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ and ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’, the destination lures many. Solo traveling in Rishikesh not only takes you one step closer to serenity but also helps you to follow a healthier lifestyle. Soak-in the spiritual bliss by attending the famous Ganga Aarti in the evening at the Triveni Ghat.
Things to do in Rishikesh
- White-water rafting
- Bungee jumping
- Cliff diving
- Kayaking
- Rock climbing
- Rappelling
Rishikesh River rafting
2) Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Jaisalmer ranks on top amongst the best places for solo travel in India. Let the charm of Rajasthani folk music takes you a different world. Golden sand, splendid forts, royal havelis and world class hospitality – you won’t get enough of this place. Tranquility prevailing in the shifting sand dunes of the Thar Desert will make you stay at Jaisalmer, a World Heritage site, much longer than intended.
Things to do in Jaisalmer
- Visit the Jaisalmer Fort
- Attend the Jaisalmer Desert Festival
- Go for a desert safari
- Admire the architecture of lavish Havelis like Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmal Ji ki Haveli
- Take a trip to Mandir Palace
3) Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Kasol is nothing less than a nature’s bounty. Bounded by scenic views and natural beauty, the quaint village can be considered for planning a solo trip to India. Once here, you will feel a resemblance to the Israel because of the culture and natives dwelling at the picturesque hamlet. No wonder, people refer to this place as Mini Israel. The prevailing air not only bewitches your senses but gives a chance to live the life to the fullest.
Things to do in Kasol
- Trekking to Malana and Kheerganga
- Camping at Kasol Valley Forest
- Trekking to Parvati Pin Pass
- River rafting at Parvati River
- Bow down at Manikaran Gurudwara
4) Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital casts a spell on visitors with its iconic drop-shaped Naini Lake. The scenic hill stations in Uttarakhand ranks on the bucket list of every avid traveler and honeymooner. Serene Temples, beautiful lakes, natural hot water springs and exotic scenery dot the area and glorify its beauty. The helping nature and warm smiles of the people make you feel at ease here. For all the MOMOS lover – Nainital is the place to be at without any further delay.
Things to do in Nainital
- Worship at the Naina Devi Temple
- Shopping at Tibetan Market
- Enjoy Cable Car ride
- Unravel boat ride at Naini Lake
- Visit Eco Cave Gardens
5) Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi keeps on bursting with vivid colors. From birth to death, the holy city celebrates it all. The city is the one of the oldest, holiest and ultimately an important pilgrimage for the Hindus. Varanasi is the perfect place to overcome the fear of death. Another important reason to mark your presence here is to master the art of music, learning and craft weaving, as the place is a great cultural hub.
Things to do in Varanasi
- Partake in the spectacular famous Ganga Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Seek the blessings of Lord Shiva at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Visit Sarnath
- Buy Banarasi Saree
- Go to Bharat Mata Mandir
6) Sikkim
Bath in the hot water springs in winter, enjoy trekking in autumn and clicking photos amidst the picture-perfect landscape in summer, make Sikkim an all season destination. From low valleys to high mountains and calm Buddhist monasteries in between, the destination is safe to be explored alone. Witness the remarkable confluence of Hinduism and Buddhism teaming up with Nepali community. Don’t forget to get detoxified at India’s only state to go fully organic.
Things to do in Sikkim
- Admire the unusual collection of various historical artifacts at Rumtek Monastery
- Trek to Goecha La
- Taste the world famous Temi tea
- Trek for sighting Mt Khangchendzonga
- Visit Lake Tsomgo
7) Udaipur, Rajasthan
Get mesmerized by the architectural grandeur that prevailed during the Rajputana era. With shimmering lakes, lavish palaces and grand havelis, Udaipur is a lovely place to plan a few days in isolation. Titles like the ‘City of Lakes’, the ‘Venice of East’ and the ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’ clearly define the beautiful aura of the amazing town. Besides being a popular tourist destination in India, the place is also known for its historical and cultural legacy.
Things to do in Udaipur
- Boat rides on the beautiful lakes
- Visit City Palace
- Bask-in the charm of Jagmandir Island
- Check out the vintage cars at the Vintage Car Museum
- Pay tribute to Maharana Pratap at Moti Magri
8) Munnar, Kerala
What’s better than spending some time with yourself amidst the rich flora and fauna in Munnar? Attracting nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the destination seems to be imbued with various shades of green. The hardworking and honest populace of the town make it one of the safest place to travel solo in India. Nothing comes close to finding yourself in the lap of Mother Nature for complete rejuvenation.
Things to do in Munnar
- Stroll amidst the tea estates
- Reach the Eravikulam National Park
- Trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in Kerala
- Bird watching at Hydel Park
- Shout out your name at Echo Point
9) Puducherry
Puducherry, earlier known as Pondicherry is the ideal destination to engage with the company of solitude. Giving you a feel of France, the sleepy little place is one of the best holiday retreats for travelers exploring India alone. Savor the delicious French cuisines and cherish the feeling of ‘Happy go lucky’. Learn to live a simple life happily and return with bag full of memories undisturbed, unspoiled and just with yourself!
Things to do in Puducherry
- Explore the old French quarters
- Find peace of mind at Promenade Beach and Paradise Beach
- Hangout at Le Club
- Offer prayers at Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Rent a bicycle and wander around the town
10) Goa
A solo trip to India can’t be complete without enjoying the joys of this voluntary loneliness at the ‘Party Capital of India’. Goa, the lively state is brimming with one or the other thing that won’t let you feel bored. Dynamic sea shore, flock of hippies, trance music and dance, exotic liquors, amazing nightlife, mouthful cuisine and casinos – Goa features all. The people here are frank, warm and generous. Time seems to fly at Goa!
Things to do in Goa
- Enjoy snorkeling, surfing, jet-skiing and scuba diving
- Try your skills at boogie boarding, parasailing, water-skiing, and windsurfing
- Unravel refreshing hours at Spa & Ayurvedic resorts
- Visit ancient churches
- Don’t forget to taste Goan cuisines and drink Feni
Goa beach
Also check out 10 reasons to travel Solo in India. With so much to do and so many places to visit, a solo trip to India is simply unavoidable.
Safety tips for every solo traveler:
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- Always try to travel during the day and rest after dayfall.
- Make sure that you get yourself insured before starting the trip.
- Choose your destinations cautiously.
- Study the entire place you are heading to.
- Have a complete itinerary before leaving.
- Keep your parents informed about your whereabouts.
- Conversate with locals
- Stay alert
- Research about the transportation options at your destination
- Keep only those things that you need and don’t overload your backpack.
- Keep a tab on your drinking.
- Do not trust people too quickly.
