Solo Travel In India is an enriching experience that provides self-discovery and the joy of exploring new places at your own pace, with its diverse culture, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality, provides several Best Solo Trip Destinations in India.
Here we explore 11 Best Solo trip Destinations in India: Rishikesh, Goa, Jaipur, Pondicherry, Udaipur, Varanasi, Mcleodganj, Manali, Ladakh, Alleppy, and Munnar. Each destination has its unique beauty that is different from others. Rishikesh is the Yoga center of the world and provides self-reflection through its spiritual journey.
Open and quiet landscape with mountains and sand. Alleppey is renowned for its backwater and houseboat cruise. Munnar is known for its lush green tea plantation with misty valley. All These places are to visit alone in India. So start your packing travel bags and leisure clothing and start the journey on the best solo trips in India.
Best Solo Trip Destinations in India
- 1. Rishikesh
- 2. Goa
- 3. Jaipur
- 4. Pondicherry
- 5. Udaipur
- 6. Varanasi
- 7. Mcleodganj
- 8. Manali
- 9. Ladakh
- 10. Alleppy
- 11. Munnar
Rishikesh The Spiritual Haven
Why Rishikesh is ideal for Solo Trip
Rishikesh is known as the yoga capital of the world. It is a spiritual haven for travellers, making it an ideal destination for solo trip in India seeking inner peace, self-discovery, and adventure. The River Ganga flows through Rishikesh, and the surrounding mountains add beauty to Rishikesh. Key attractions at Rishikesh are Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, The Beatles Ashram, Triveni Ghat, and Rishikesh River Rafting, where you can meditate in peace or take a dip in the holy Ganges.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (around 21 km from Rishikesh)
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
Best Hotels:
- Ananda in the Himalayas – A 5-star luxury spa resort offering world-class wellness programs.
- Aloha on the Ganges – A 4-star resort with stunning views of the river and comfortable amenities.
Best Restaurants:
- Chotiwala – Famous for traditional North Indian cuisine, especially its thali.
- The Sitting Elephant – Offers a mix of Indian and international dishes with picturesque river views.
Best Time to Visit:
- September to November: Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and yoga retreats.
- March to May: Best for adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, and bungee jumping.
Goa: The Beach Paradise
Why Goa is famous for best place for solo trip in India
Goa is known for its lively beaches, rich history, and eclectic culture, making it best solo trip destination in India. You can explore churches, temples, waterfalls, and historic structures here. The best way to explore the culture is by riding a scooter, moving places, and trying the local cuisine. The blend of Portuguese and Indian culture adds to its charm. In Goa you can also explore Dudhsagar waterfalls, Spice plantation and beautiful countryside.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim) (around 35 km from North Goa)
- Nearest Railway Station: Vasco da Gama Railway Station (around 30 km from South Goa)
Best Hotels:
- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa – A 5-star luxury resort located in South Goa, offering a private beach and world-class amenities.
- The Leela Goa – A 5-star resort with beautiful gardens, a golf course, and private beach access.
Best Restaurants:
- Gunpowder – Known for its coastal Indian cuisine, including flavorful seafood and traditional Goan dishes.
- Thalassa – A popular restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views of the Arabian Sea, especially during sunset.
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February: The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. This is also the peak season for tourists.
- March to May: Although warmer, this is a good time to enjoy Goa’s offbeat charm, with fewer crowds and attractive discounts on accommodations.
Jaipur: The Pink City
Why Jaipur is the best places for solo travel in India:
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and is known as a pink city due to its pink-coloured buildings. You will have the Royal experience in Jaipur due to its palaces, Forts and vibrant markets. Jaipur’s must-see places are Amber Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal.
Solo travellers can enjoy local cuisine, Dal Bati Churma, which is famous in India. Jaipur has a rich heritage and traditional crafts like sandals, and Juti is famous for its vibrant colour. It is number one Solo travel places in India.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (around 13 km from the city center)
- Nearest Railway Station: Jaipur Junction
Best Hotels:
- Rambagh Palace – A 5-star heritage hotel offering a royal experience with luxurious amenities and exquisite decor.
- The Oberoi Rajvilas – A 5-star luxury resort set in a beautiful garden, offering an oasis of tranquility.
Best Restaurants:
- Chokhi Dhani – A traditional Rajasthani village-themed restaurant offering an authentic Rajasthani thali experience.
- Suvarna Mahal, Taj Rambagh Palace – Known for its regal ambiance and fine dining, serving traditional Indian cuisine.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Pondicherry: The French Riviera of the East
Why Pondicherry is one of the best places to travel alone in India:
This Indian territory is still dominated by ancient French colonial architecture and overall vibes. Pondicherry is the perfect place to visit alone in India since it is small, safe, and easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Puducherry famous beaches, like Promenade Beach, Auroville Beach, and Paradise Beach, are popular spots to relax and unwind for solo travellers.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (around 135 km from Pondicherry)
- Nearest Railway Station: Pondicherry Railway Station
Best Hotels:
- The Promenade – A 4-star hotel located on the beachfront, offering stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
- La Villa – A boutique hotel combining French elegance and modern luxury, located in the heart of the French Quarter.
Best Restaurants:
- Le Dupleix – Offers a mix of French and Indian cuisine in a charming colonial setting.
- Café des Arts A popular spot for French-inspired dishes, crepes, and artisanal coffee, set in a quaint, artsy atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the beaches, French Quarter, and Auroville. This is also the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
Udaipur: The City of Lakes
Why Udaipur is the best place to travel solo in India.
Udaipur is famous as the lake city of India. Udaipur is also famous for its royal heritage and scenic beauty. Udaipur is a perfect blend of history, culture and relaxation. Udaipur’s famous lakes, like Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Udai Sagar Lake, reflect the images of the City Palace, Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas, which are architecturally splendid. You can say it is the best place for solo trip in India.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport (around 22 km from the city center)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station
Best Hotels:
- Taj Lake Palace – A 5-star luxury hotel set on an island in Lake Pichola, offering an unmatched royal experience.
- The Oberoi Udaivilas – Another 5-star gem, located on the banks of Lake Pichola, known for its stunning architecture and impeccable service.
Best Restaurants:
- Ambrai Restaurant – Famous for its lakeside dining experience, offering a mix of Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine with stunning views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace.
- Upré by 1559 AD – Offers a rooftop dining experience with a panoramic view of the city, serving a mix of Indian and Continental cuisine.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: The winter months are the best time to visit Udaipur, as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. It is one of the best solo travel destinations in India.
Varanasi: The Spiritual Capital of India
Why Varanasi is Spiritual place for solo trip in India
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is a spiritual haven and draws attention from around the world for an authentic experience of India’s religious and cultural heritage. Solo travellers can dive deep spiritually into this city for self-reflection. Varanasi is situated on the banks of the holy Ganga River.
Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat are always busy with rituals, prayers and famous Ganga Arti. Varanasi’s spiritual experience and self-reflection make it the best solo trip destination in India.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (around 26 km from the city center)
- Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station)
Best Hotels:
- BrijRama Palace – A heritage hotel on the ghats of Varanasi, offering luxurious accommodations with a royal touch.
- Taj Nadesar Palace – A 5-star hotel set amidst lush gardens, providing a tranquil escape with historical charm.
Best Restaurants:
- Kashi Chat Bhandar – A popular spot for traditional Indian street food, particularly chaats.
- Varuna Restaurant at Taj Ganges – Known for its authentic North Indian cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: The cool weather during these months makes it comfortable to explore the ghats and temples. The Dev Diwali festival in November is a spectacular time to witness the city illuminated with thousands of diyas (lamps).
McLeod Ganj: The Little Lhasa
Why McLeod Ganj best place for solo travel in India
McLeod Ganj is known as The Little Lhasa due to its large Tibetan community, the residence of the Dalai Lama, and a hub of Tibetan culture and Buddhism. It is surrounded by the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. Dalai Lama Temple and Bhagsu waterfall are the best places for beautiful views of mountains and valleys. McLeod Ganj will make your one of the best solo trips in India.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (around 20 km from McLeod Ganj)
- Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station (around 90 km)
Best Hotels:
- Fortune Park Moksha – A 4-star hotel offering panoramic views of the mountains and a peaceful retreat.
- Chonor House – A boutique hotel run by the Norbulingka Institute, known for its Tibetan-themed décor and warm hospitality.
Best Restaurants:
- Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen – A popular spot for Italian cuisine with a cozy ambiance.
- Nick’s Italian Kitchen – Known for its variety of Italian dishes and a beautiful view of the mountains.
Best Time to Visit:
- March to June and September to November: The weather during these months is ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The Dalai Lama’s teachings are also held during these periods, offering a unique cultural experience.
Manali: The Valley of the Gods
Why Manali is one of the best solo trip places in India
Manali is situated in Kullu Valley. Manali is one of the Top solo travel destinations in India due to its adventurous sports like trekking, paragliding, and skiing. Manali is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of nature, snow-capped mountains, Apple Orchard, Deodar Trees, and Flowing rivers. Must-see places are Solan Valley, Rohtang Pass, and Hadimba Temple.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (around 50 km from Manali)
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (around 165 km)
Best Hotels:
- The Himalayan – A 5-star luxury castle hotel offering a blend of Gothic and Victorian architecture with modern amenities.
- Span Resort & Spa – A 5-star resort located on the banks of the Beas River, known for its beautiful setting and luxurious accommodations.
Best Restaurants:
- Café 1947 – A popular spot for Italian and continental cuisine, with a cozy ambiance by the river.
- Johnson’s Café – Known for its trout dishes and lively atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February: Ideal for those who love snow and want to experience winter sports.
- March to June: The weather is pleasant and perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Ladakh: The Land of High Passes
Why Ladakh is the best solo trip destinations in India
Ladakh is the northernmost part of India. Ladakh is known for its rugged terrain, pristine landscape, and unique culture. Ladakh has some of the highest motorable passes in the world, like Khardung La and Chang La, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan Peak.
In this reason you often encounter with solo bike riders. Ladakh region has crystal clear lakes, deep valley, towering mountains, and expansive deserts. The blue water lakes Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are must-see places. Ladakh is on the top list of places to visit solo in India.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh (the main town in Ladakh).
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (around 700 km from Leh) – from here, you can take a taxi or bus to Leh, though the journey is long.
Best Hotels:
- The Grand Dragon Ladakh – A 5-star hotel in Leh, offering luxurious accommodations with modern amenities and stunning views of the mountains.
- Chamba Camp Thiksey – A 5-star luxury glamping experience, providing well-appointed tents with all modern comforts, set amidst the serene Thiksey village.
Best Restaurants:
- The Tibetan Kitchen – Known for its authentic Tibetan and Ladakhi dishes, including momos, thukpa, and butter tea.
- Bon Appetit – Offers a mix of Indian, Continental, and Ladakhi cuisine, with a beautiful view of the mountains.
Best Time to Visit:
- June to September: These months are ideal for visiting Ladakh, as the weather is pleasant, and the roads are open. This is also the best time for trekking, exploring lakes, and attending festivals like Hemis Tsechu.
Alleppey: The Venice of the East
Why Alleppey is places to visit alone in India
Alleppey (Alappuzha) is famous for its backwaters, houseboats, and landscapes, and it is the southern state of India. If you are travelling solo Alleppey, you must stay and experience a houseboat cruise in a backwater. Alleppey has a vast network of backwaters, lagoons, and canals along the side of the coconut palm and lush green paddy fields.
The Vembanad Lake, the largest in Kerala, is the heart of the backwaters and provides stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Alleppey is the perfect place to travel solo in India for peace and introspection.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (around 83 km from Alleppey)
- Nearest Railway Station: Alleppey Railway Station
Best Hotels:
- Lake Palace Resort – A 5-star luxury resort set on an island in the backwaters, offering traditional Kerala-style cottages with modern amenities.
- Punnamada Resort – A 4-star resort located along the Vembanad Lake, known for its traditional architecture, Ayurvedic spa, and houseboat stays.
Best Restaurants:
- Halais Restaurant – Renowned for its traditional Kerala dishes, especially seafood and biryanis.
- Thaff Restaurant – A popular spot for a variety of South Indian and North Indian dishes at reasonable prices.
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February: The winter months are the best time to visit Alleppey, as the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for enjoying houseboat cruises and exploring the backwaters.
Munnar: The Land of Tea Gardens
Why Munnar is one of the places to visit solo in India
Munnar is a hill station and famous for its tea plantation. The weather of the Munnar is Misty and pleasant. For solo travelers, it is a peaceful retreat in nature, an opportunity for trekking, wildlife spotting, and exploring scenic landscapes. The sight of a tea garden with mist hanging over the valley is simply incredible.
Eravikulam National Park, located nearby, is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and provides views of the Western Ghats. The park is also famous for the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years, turning the hills blue. The natural beauty of Munnar makes it the best place to visit solo in India and do the self-reflection.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (around 110 km from Munnar)
- Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station (around 110 km from Munnar)
Best Hotels:
- The Panoramic Getaway – A 5-star luxury resort offering panoramic views of the hills, with modern amenities and an infinity pool.
- Fragrant Nature Munnar – A 5-star boutique hotel known for its beautiful setting amidst tea gardens and luxury accommodations.
Best Restaurants:
- Rapsy Restaurant – A popular eatery in Munnar, known for its South Indian, North Indian, and Continental dishes.
- Saravana Bhavan – Offers traditional South Indian vegetarian cuisine, perfect for a budget-friendly and authentic meal.
Best Time to Visit:
- September to March: These months are ideal for visiting Munnar, as the weather is cool and perfect for exploring the tea gardens, national parks, and enjoying outdoor activities. The monsoon months (June to September) also bring lush greenery, but heavy rains may restrict some activities.
Conclusion
All above 11 places offers unique experiences for solo travelers in India, combining adventure, tranquility, spiritual depth, Adventurous activities, rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Ladakh’s rugged terrain and cultural richness provide an unparalleled experience for those seeking solitude and exploration. Alleppey’s backwaters offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for leisurely exploration. Munnar’s lush landscapes and tea gardens provide a refreshing escape into nature.
Rishikesh and Varanasi Spiritual growth, beach fun in Goa, Royal grandeur in Jaipur, or a tranquil retreat in Pondicherry, Royal feel of Udaipur, Ambience of McLeod Ganj, Adventurous spirit of Manali. All Places are safe and well connected to Road, Rail and Air to explore Solo. These are the best places in India for solo trip. You can also form a group trip for solo travelers in India for these places.
10 Important Tips for Solo Travelers
1. Make copies of your ID, and store it separately from your original and leave another with a friend or relative.
2. Carry only 1-2 cards and some cash. Don’t carry huge amount of cash.
3. Check customer reviews, before you book that zip-lining, parasailing or river rafting trips.
4. Travel like a Local, when visiting any location, know your surroundings and plan your route in advance.
5. Check the weather and take steps to protect yourself from lightning, hail, thunderstorms and severe weather.
6. Avoid oversharing of your Realtime updates on social media sites.
7. Share your travel plans with trusted family or friends and stay connected
8. Make an emergency plan for any unforeseen circumstances you must have emergency plan for rescue yourself.
9. Avoid reckless behaviors and use common sense
10.Do the safety research and choose wisely, understanding more about the area you’re visiting.
FAQ
Which place in India is best for a solo trip?
Rishikesh- Is the Yoga capital of the world. It is a spiritual place for self-reflection and peace.
Goa- Is famous for its beaches and countryside views.
Jaipur- Is famous for its pink buildings, heritage and culture.
Pondicherry – This Indian territory is still dominated by ancient French colonial architecture and overall vibes and the famous beaches.
Udaipur- This city is called the city of lakes. It is also famous for its royal heritage and scenic beauty.
Varanasi- Oldest city of the world and spiritual capital of INDIA. Go and find yourself and your purpose in life.
Mcleodganj- A Little lahasa. Dominated by Buddhist culture and natural beauty. It is also famous for Dalai Lama Temple and Bhagsu waterfall.
Is it OK to travel alone in India?
Though the way of the world teaches us to be extremely cautious when travelling alone, there should be little cause for concern while adventuring through India. The people are kind and more than anything simply curious about new faces.
Can a girl go on a solo trip?
Yes, solo travel can be a rewarding and empowering experience for women, and women are more likely to travel solo than men.
Is a solo trip a good idea?
Solo travel is a good idea for many reasons, including:
Confidence
Traveling solo can help you feel empowered and build confidence.
Emotional agility
Traveling outside your comfort zone can help you develop empathy and creativity as you face uncertainty.
Mental well-being
Solo travel can help you learn to handle stress, set healthy boundaries, and pursue your passions.
Self-discovery
You can learn more about yourself while discovering new places.
Problem-solving
You’ll be forced to figure things out on your own, which can help you become a better problem-solver.
Handling Surprise Situations
When you travel alone , you are always ready to handle new unknown situations very well.
What is the right age to travel alone?
If you’re comfortable with the idea of travelling alone, then there’s no reason why you can’t start solo travelling at any age. However, if you’re still in school or college and don’t have much experience with travel, it might be best to wait until after graduation before embarking on a solo journey.
At what age should I start solo travelling?
It definitely is a good age to start travelling alone and being single gives you a lot of flexibility and freedom when you travel. Just be careful to avoid shady places, stay safe and enjoy the experience.
What are some places for beginners to solo travel in India?
There’s not a such thing like beginners in Solo travelling. Just some guts and lust for Travel.
Goa has something for everyone. or solo travellers or Budget backpackers, there are many hostels you can choose to crash in with other fellow backpackers from across the Globe.
Jaipur. A fun fact about Jaipur that it has the largest footfall of tourists from abroad in India. So you would meet some fellow solo travellers and Jaipur also gives you options of many hostels to stay
Kasol , Himachal Pradesh. Known as the ‘Stoner’s Paradise’. It’s one of the most favourite places to visit solo.
Here are some more,
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Pushkar , Rajasthan
Varkala, Kerala
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Nubra Valley, Leh
Majuli, Assam
Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu
Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu.
So there are numerous places in India to start with your journey of solo travelling. Trust me, once you start it, it grows on you and you get addicted to it. Solo travelling, is what I believe that makes you stand different from a ‘Tourist’ and transforms you into a Traveller. So just pack your bag and Leave.