India is culturally, naturally, and historically diverse, so traveling solo in India can be quite an exciting journey. Several solo travel destinations in India may include adventure, spirituality, history, and leisure. India is a country that holds a tremendous place for those hoping to get in touch with spirituality and those who wish to get a taste of some vibrant cities. Traveling in one’s own company is always advantageous because there is no rush to adhere to the group’s itinerary. This article lists some of the best solo travel destinations in India for first-time solo travelers, and these are highlighted by details such as how to get there, when to go, and where to stay.
Table of Contents
List of The Best Solo Travel Destinations in India
1. Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of the World
Rishikesh is located in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand in northern India and is acclaimed as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World.’ This small town of serene beauty is ideal for a solo traveler who wishes to find tranquility, spirituality, and adventure. Being one of the most favored solo travel destinations in India, Rishikesh offers a shot at yoga, meditation, and the Ganga. This is the perfect spot for those who are searching for harmony of body and mind as well as active holidays.
Highlights:
- Yoga and meditation retreats
- Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
- Exciting activities such as white-water rafting and trekking
- Stunning views of the Himalayas and Ganges River
- Spiritual exploration in ashrams and temples
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (20 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station (5 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
The best to visit are the months of September through March because the climate is ideal for sightseeing, exercise, and religious purposes.
Best Hotels:
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram (ideal for yoga retreats)
- Ganga Kinare (luxury stay by the river)
- The Hosteller (budget-friendly option for solo travelers)
Rishikesh is one of the most sought-after solo trip destinations in India, and it provides both peace and adventure along with spiritual awakening.
2. Goa – The Beach Paradise
Goa is one of the best destinations for solo travelers who want to relax, sunbathe, and take adventure trips. The state of Goa is popular for its lovely beaches, lively nightlife, and relaxing environs, which make the combination of sun, sand, and sea. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, adventure sports, history, and art, making Goa one of the best places for a solo trip in India. Besides, it is an excellent opportunity to choose if one wants to play alone with some friendly people and a natural environment.
Highlights:
- Gorgeous beaches like Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem
- The water-related activities include parasailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving.
- Old Portuguese churches and forts
- Vibrant nightlife and beach shacks
- Local markets for shopping and souvenirs
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim)
Nearest Railway Station: Madgaon Railway Station (35 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
It’s advised to visit during the dry season between November and March as the weather is moderate and thus suitable for these activities.
Best Hotels:
- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa (luxury stay)
- The Hosteller Goa (budget-friendly for solo travelers)
- Casa de Goa (boutique hotel with a cozy vibe)
Goa is one of the most popular tourist places in India, and it is perfect for a person who wants some alone time and to explore new places.
3. Mysore – A Blend of Culture and Heritage
Mysore is one of Karnataka’s most important historical cities and is undoubtedly a cultural city with an archaic monarchy. This city is an ideal location for a single traveler looking to immerse themself in the culture, art, and design and enjoy some quiet time. Mysore, which boasts of palaces and markets, temples, and theatres, can offer travel aficionados unadulterated cultural tourism. It is one of the best budget solo travel destinations in India, which suits first-time solo backpackers who intend to discover India’s history without emptying their pockets.
Highlights:
- Majestic Mysore Palace
- Chamundi Hill and Temple
- St. Philomena’s Church
- The bustling Devaraja Market
- Yoga retreats and a peaceful ambiance
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (12 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station (1 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
The best months for travel are October to March, as the region’s climate is relatively mild and suitable for touring.
Best Hotels:
Radisson Blu Hotel Mysore (luxury option)
The Green Hotel (heritage stay)
Mysore Backpackers (affordable and ideal for solo travelers)
Mysore is one of the unique and sought-after solo travel destinations in India that houses the blend of history, culture, and serene ambiance for single traveling people.
4. Leh-Ladakh – The Adventure Destination
Leh-Ladakh, for instance, is perhaps one of the best solo travel destinations in India and is ideal for people who love thrills. This being the country’s northernmost region, the scenic marvels include high-altitude deserts and mountainous snow areas. This destination type is best for the single traveler looking for adventure, mountain biking, trekking, and a calm atmosphere along the riverside. It is also essential for discovering spirituality due to its distinct culture and monasteries.
Highlights:
- Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri Lake
- Magnetic Hill
- Nubra and its dunes
- Trekking and biking through the rough terrain
- Buddhist monasteries like Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (700 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit is between the months of June and September since weather conditions are favorable for undertaking various activities.
Best Hotels:
The Grand Dragon Ladakh (luxury stay)
Leh Backpackers Hostel (affordable option for solo travelers)
Hotel Kidar (budget-friendly and comfortable)
One of the most preferred solo travel destinations in India, Leh-Ladakh is perfect for adventurous and peaceful places where you can explore natural beauty.
5. Udaipur – The City of Lakes
Udaipur is another city on the list, also known as the “City of Lakes.” Renowned for the two stunning lakes, magnificent forts and palaces, lively arts, and music, Udaipur presents a fascinating ambiance for the lone wanderer. Often considered one of the top destinations for solo traveling in India, it offers history, art, and nature, making it very suitable for starters traveling in the royal way in India.
Highlights:
- Lake Pichola and its boat rides
- City Palace and Jagdish Temple
- Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
- The Jag Mandir Island
- Vibrant local markets for shopping
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport (22 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station (3 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
It is better to visit the region between October and March because the temperature is moderate and perfect for tourism and cruising.
Best Hotels:
Taj Lake Palace (luxury stay by the lake)
Shiv Niwas Palace (royal heritage experience)
Zostel Udaipur (budget-friendly option for solo travelers)
Rajasthan, for sure, is one of the best places for a solo trip to India and for those who want to combine relaxation and cultural sightseeing.
6. Hampi – The Ancient Ruins
Hampi is one of the most fascinating tourist attractions; the place was listed among the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Famous for monuments, temples, and large boulders adjusted on the ground, Karnataka’s Hampi is a good site for determined travelers and archeologists. Hampi has been known to be one of the most interesting tourist places in India for anyone who chooses something historical, religious, and wonderfully beautiful sites to visit. This one has been created for beginners who want to discover some history of India and travel alone.
Highlights:
- The ruins of Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple
- Rappelling and the Hampi Bazaar district
- Royal Enclosure and the Lotus Mahal
- The Stone Chariot and ancient ruins
- Sunset views from Hemakuta Hill
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (165 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Railway Station (13 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
The best season to travel is from October to Mar,ch when the climate is favorable for moving around to see the monuments.
Best Hotels:
Eagle Ridge Resort (peaceful and scenic stay)
Hampi Boulders Resort (a natural resort destination)
Zostel Hampi (budget-friendly option for solo travelers)
Hampi is among the most impressive travel destinations for a solo traveler in India – a journey into the past in history.
8. Manali – The Valleys of The God
Also called “The Valleys of The Gods,” Manali is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Ideally, located in the backdrop of snow-peaked mountains and offering an exotic culture, Manali is an ideal place for a solo traveler to explore and adventure. It, therefore, makes one of the best and most friendly budget solo travel destinations in India. They engage in trekking and paragliding, which is a good opportunity to meet nature face to face.
Highlights:
- Solang Valley for adventure sports
- Rohtang Pass, a popular snow-covered destination
- Old Manali, with its cafes and peaceful vibe
- Hidimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple
- Trekking trails such as Beas Kund and Bhrigu Lake
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (50 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (165 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit is between the months of March and June because the weather will be enjoyable and perfect for some fun and adventure. As for lovers of the snow, the months of December, January, and February are ideal.
Best Hotels:
The Himalayan Resort & Spa (luxury stay with stunning views)
Hotel Manali Inn (comfortable and affordable)
Zostel Manali (budget-friendly and popular among solo travelers)
One of the most preferred destinations to travel alone in India, Manali provides an exciting and calm trip amidst the lap of nature.
9. Gulmarg – Skiing Adventure
Gulmarg is a hill station situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, and it is famous for its greenery, snow-capped peaks, and beauty. Also known as the ‘“Meadow of Flowers,” it is one of the most striking places usually visited by single travelers fond of tours across nature. Gulmarg is a skiing place in the winter season, and during this season, it offers a beautiful place with a view of the Himalayan range. It remains one of the budget solo travel destinations in India for a single tourist who wants accommodation and other activities.
Highlights:
- Skiing in the winter season
- Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak
- Beautiful meadows and green valleys
- Trip to the old church of St Mary
- Nature walks and trekking routes
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar (51 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station (290 km away)
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to travel to the region is from December to March for snow activities, while sightseeing and general holiday-making are from April to June.
Best Hotels:
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa (luxury with views)
Hotel Heevan Resort (affordable and cozy)
Zostel Gulmarg (budget-friendly for solo travelers)
Gulmarg is one of the beautiful places that attracts a solo traveler who wants to enjoy adventure with solitude in one of the most beautiful places in India.
10. Mumbai – City of Bollywood
Today, the city is also referred to as the City of Dreams or the City of Bollywood, which is the center of the Indian film industry. Generally, Mumbai is considered the most preferred place for individual trips, and it has adopted the victory of progress and the preservation of traditions. From towers to street selling, skyscrapers to street food, it is a city dubbed the city that never sleeps. Whether you are strolling by the sea at a beach or observing artistic exhibitions in museums, traveling alone to Mumbai will surely leave you breathless.
Highlights:
- Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves
- Marine Drive and Juhu Beach
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST)
- Bollywood studio tours
- Colaba Causeway for shopping
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (Mumbai)
Nearest Railway Station: Mumbai CST (Central Station)
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal travel period is from November to February due to relatively favorable weather conditions for tourism and various outdoor activities.
Best Hotels:
The Taj Mahal Palace (luxury, iconic stay)
Trident Nariman Point (luxury with great views)
Zostel Mumbai (affordable and popular for solo travelers)
Undoubtedly, Mumbai is one of the best places in India to travel alone on a low budget, where visitors can get a blend of energetic and rich culture in the same place.
The Bottom Line
India is a country that has astonishing geographical and cultural differences, so it has become one of the most attractive destinations for those who travel alone. These are some solo travel destinations in India for those who love adventure, cultural and spiritual touch, or solitude. From the laid-back sun, sand, and sea of Goa to the heights of the snow-clad mountains of Gulmarg, the country has it all. Regardless of your experience level in traveling or even if you’re going for the first time alone, these places will help you make your journey memorable. Therefore, grab your bags, and let’s go on a trip you will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Destinations in India
Yes, it is safe for solo tourists to travel to India. However, like in any country, precaution is advisable, especially in areas one does not frequently go around. Always on the safe side with your belongings and always be wary.
The ideal conditions for a tour are between October and March since the temperature is suitable for traveling. Because of the heat, it is also important not to travel at the beginning of the year, specifically from April, May, and June.
Bring comfortable, warm, or casual clothing, sunblock/sunscreen, a first aid kit, good shoes, and a power bank. Ensure to carry your camera to record the beautiful momentous occasion!
Budget can be a significant concern when traveling alone, but there are numerous cheap guest houses, Zostel as hostels, and local food sold on the streets in India. Some of India’s most affordable destinations that offer the best solitude include Goa, Rishikesh, and Mysore.
Indeed, India is quite friendly to solo travelers. In most hostels, cafés, or even during the tours, single travelers find friends to join them. Some top destinations for solo travelers include Goa, Rishikesh, and Hampi.
