Who would have thought decades ago that traveling could become this easy?! If you have grown up watching travel films or maybe your go-to is Eat, Pray, Love, I totally get that you would have always desired to undertake a solo adventure to travel new places and try fresh cuisines.
Whether it is the trails of Manali, mesmerizing old forts in Jaipur, or partying on a beach shack in Goa, there are numerous places in India to travel alone.
Traveling solo is also becoming incredibly rewarding. This type of vacation is best for people looking for a break or an opportunity for personal reflection and self-discovery.
If you are planning a getaway on a limited budget in India, I can help you decide on your next destination in 2023. Also, not to forget, 2023 is offering some amazing long weekends, which definitely calls for some travel plans! Here’s a list of my favorite places to travel solo.
1. Hampi
One of India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this place will cheer all history lovers! Hampi, a peaceful place for solo travelers, is a village in Karnataka on the banks of river Tungabhadra and it is worth every bit of your money!
A paradise for history enthusiasts, Hampi has somewhat 500 ancient monuments, and it is famous for its beautifully carved temples. Additionally, it is also a heaven on earth for mountaineers, practicing rock climbing.
Best time to visit: October to February
Things to do in Hampi:
- Camping in the ruins
- Visit Anjaneya Hill
- Rock Climbing
- Coracle Ride
- Fishing
- Cliff Jumping
- Boat Ride
Hampi is best for solo travel, especially for female travelers who can be worry-free while backpacking in Hampi.
2. Darjeeling
Who wouldn’t know about the refreshing Darjeeling Tea even?! Located in North Bengal, Darjeeling is a hill station that is perfectly safe to travel solo. About 2000m above sea level, Darjeeling is nestled in the green hills of the Himalayas,
The enthralling place will let you dwell in the views of snow-capped mountains and lush tea gardens. The colonial architectural mansions and the churches will keep you wrapped in their charm.
Darjeeling gives an enchanting view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. You could literally sit in one place and gaze at the mountain for hours and soothe your soul.
Best time to visit: September to November and February to April
Things to do in Darjeeling:
- Toy Train Ride
- Trekking
- Nature Walks
- Gondola Ride
- Tea Plantation Tour
- Tiger Hill
- Japanese Temple
- Tenzing Rock and Gompu Rock
- Darjeeling Ropeway
If you are planning to visit Darjeeling in 2023, then you can easily get there by train or road.
3. Lahaul
The perfect destination for your first solo trip in India, Lahaul is located in the remotest corner of Himachal Pradesh. Ever since the opening of the Atal Tunnel, Lahaul has become an easily accessible place, and sometimes an extension of Manali trips (for many!).
I am sure you will fall head over heels for Lahual. There are some of the most unexplored terrains in India.
Keylong, Udaipur, Sissu, and Jispa are some of the ideal places to stay in Lahual.
Best time to visit: May to October
Things to do in Lahaul:
- Shashur Gompa
- Mrikula Devi Temple
- Tayul Monastery
- Tower fort of Gondhla
- Lahaul & Spiti Tribal Museum
For scenic beauty and peace of mind, Lahaul is awaiting your visit. Ensure that this pristine place is definitely checked off your bucket list.
Be ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
4. Varkala
One of the best places for female solo travelers, Varkala is situated in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. This calm and peaceful hamlet has multiple tourist attractions, including a 2000-year-old Vishnu Temple!
Varkala’s beautiful setting has allowed it to grow as one of the most popular backpacker’s go-to destinations in Kerala. A great place to hit a pause button to life, Varkala is an easy escape from the city crowds where the beaches are clean and quiet.
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do in Varkala:
- Varkala Beach
- Para-sailing
- Paragliding
- Varkala Cliff
- Kappil Beach
- Anjengo Fort and Light House
- Local Culture at Varkala Culture Center
- Kilimanoor Palace
- Ponnumthuruth Island
Varkala’s water is considered sacred, making it a natural paradise for solo travelers.
5. Ladakh
Known as “the land of highways,” a solo trip to Ladakh is full of exciting, enchanting adventures, giving you chills down the spine every now and then.
Planning a solo trip is also about coming out of your comfort zone and living as freely as you want. And Ladakh, that is known for its captivating landscape, rugged valleys, and turquoise lakes will offer you breathtaking scenery that would never leave your mind.
This high-altitude desert in the Jammu and Kashmir is about 11,000 feet above sea level. Ladakh is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure freaks. If you are looking forward to an exciting and unforgettable trip, a solo trip to Ladakh in 2023 should definitely be on your list.
Best time to visit: April to July
Things to do in Ladakh:
- Hall of Fame
- Thiksey Monastery
- Khardunga La
- Gurdwara Pathar Sahib
- Confluence of Zanskar and Indus River
- Shanti Stupa
- Dras War Memorial
- Nubra Valley
- Tso Moriri
- Sand Dunes Leisure Park
You really cannot miss out on picturesque views!
In Conclusion
So, the big question is, are you a solo travel enthusiast and willing to take risks and get out of your comfort zone? If yes, then the wonders of India will leave you stunned.
These five amazing places mentioned in this blog is filled with breathtaking beaches, mountains, and lush beauty. These offbeat places will give you the kind of warmth you have always desired and safety that will eventually lead you towards some enthralling discoveries you will ever experience!
Banner Image by Anthony Tran on Unsplash
About Author
Nitya Jain is an enthusiastic content writer and a life-long learner with an undying curiosity to explore new things. She loves fresh humour, just like her tea! When not writing, you'll find her raiding book stores or hopping cafes in town.
