There’s a rising trend of people taking solo trips in India, and it’s not hard to see why. India has them all, whether it’s a beach, a mountain, or a temple town. A solo adventure offers complete freedom and opportunities for self-discovery.

 

In this blog, we’ve handpicked 10 of the best places for solo trips in India. Let’s dive into the list and see what makes each spot special.

Why is India a Great Destination for Solo Travelers?

India offers an unmatched diversity of experiences, from the Himalayan mountains to tropical beaches. India is also budget-friendly: affordable hostels, street food feasts, and cheap transport options everywhere. The country’s cultural richness means you’ll encounter welcoming locals, fascinating traditions, and delicious cuisine in each region.

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Photo by Sabrina Rossi

Rishikesh is known as the Yoga Capital of the World. It has a friendly backpacker vibe and plenty of ashrams and hostels. If you seek spirituality and adventure, it’s an ideal place for a solo trip in India.  

 

In the evenings on the Ganges River, you can join the Ganga Aarti, a soulful prayer ceremony that’s even more special when you experience it solo. By day, tackle Rishikesh’s wild side. Go white-water rafting through the rapids or leap with a bungee jump. For a calmer vibe, join a yoga or meditation class at an ashram to rejuvenate your mind. Don’t miss attending the evening aarti at Parmarth Niketan or Triveni Ghat for a moving spiritual experience.

2. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

Photo by wakila

Nestled in the Dhauladhar mountains, McLeod Ganj (upper Dharamshala) is a haven of peace and culture, making it one of the great places to visit alone in India. The town is home to the Dalai Lama and a large Tibetan community. Solo travelers feel at ease among the monks, nuns, and fellow backpackers. 

Begin at the Dalai Lama Temple Complex (Tsuglagkhang) to soak in Tibetan Buddhist vibes and maybe hear monks chanting. Meditate or quietly observe prayers at the Namgyal Monastery, within the Dalai Lama’s temple complex. McLeod Ganj is also famous for the Triund Trek. A moderate hike of around 4 to 6 hours offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. You can do it as a day trip or camp overnight under the stars.

Back in town, explore local bookstores and artisan shops, and enjoy steaming momos (Tibetan dumplings) at a café. A short walk away is Bhagsu village, where you can visit the Bhagsunag waterfall and chill out at the Shiva Café. 

3. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Photo by Andrey X.

Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is tourist-friendly and easy to get around. The locals are welcoming, and the city is compact, making it enjoyable to wander alone. It’s considered one of the best places for solo travel in India because of its artistic atmosphere and various activities that are perfect for a solo itinerary.  

Start with the magnificent City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola. Exploring its ornate rooms and museums solo is like stepping into a royal era. Next, head out on a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Glide past the shimmering Lake Palace and Jag Mandir island, especially magical around sunset when the whole lake is aglow. 

In the evening, find a rooftop restaurant by the lake to enjoy dinner with a view of the palaces lit up at night. By day, wander the bustling bazaars for handicrafts. Udaipur is famous for its miniature paintings and vibrant textiles. 

Don’t miss watching the sunset from Ambrai Ghat or the hilltop Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh), which offers breathtaking views over the city and lakes. The laid-back pace and scenic beauty here make it one of the top solo travel destinations in India.

4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Photo by Deepak Deshwal from Pexels

Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest cities. Experiencing its intense spirituality alone can be profoundly moving. Sit by the Ganges, watch life unfold, or wander through ancient alleys to absorb the sacred atmosphere. Varanasi encourages you to slow down and reflect, which is why it’s often a transformative stop for solo travelers.

Life in Varanasi revolves around the Ganges River and its many ghats. A sunrise boat ride on the Ganges is a must-do. You’ll see the city slowly come to life, with pilgrims taking holy dips and the morning sun gilding the waters. 

Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening for the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony. It’s a mesmerizing ritual of fire, chants, and devotion that will give you goosebumps. Spend the day exploring the Old City’s maze-like lanes, where you’ll stumble upon hidden temples, colorful markets, and the scent of incense. Try local treats at a street stall, like a creamy lassi or a serving of hot kachori-sabzi.

5. Pondicherry (Puducherry)

Photo by ePhotocorp

Pondicherry is one of the best places for solo trips in India. It offers a mellow seaside escape with a unique blend of French and Indian culture. This former French colony is all about quaint colonial architecture and calm, tree-lined streets, perfect for wandering or cycling alone. It’s a small, safe city where you won’t feel lost in the crowd. Solo travelers can enjoy the slow pace of life, explore little cafes, and stroll by the sea without any rush.

Along the coast, Promenade Beach (Rock Beach) is ideal for a morning jog or an evening walk. Join locals relaxing by the Gandhi statue and listening to the waves crash. 

Pondicherry also has a spiritual side. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram for peace and meditation, and learn about Pondy’s famous spiritual lineage. You can also rent a bicycle to explore the quiet neighborhoods and find hidden courtyards and art galleries. Don’t be surprised to find French bakeries alongside South Indian eateries. Pondicherry’s mixed heritage means you can enjoy a croissant for breakfast and masala dosa for dinner on the same day.

6. Hampi, Karnataka

Photo by Skouatroulio

Hampi is a dream destination for history buffs and backpackers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dotted with ancient temple ruins amid a landscape of giant boulders. As a solo traveler, you can wander through palaces and stone-pillared halls at your own pace. 

Start at the towering Virupaksha Temple. It’s Hampi’s centerpiece, where pilgrims still worship. You might even spot the temple’s resident elephant. From there, set off to discover Hampi’s myriad ruins. The carved Stone Chariot at the Vittala Temple complex is a must-see icon, as are the royal enclosure ruins like the Queen’s Bath and the Elephant Stables. 

One of the best views is from Matanga Hill at dawn or dusk. The panorama of ruins and banana plantations below is unforgettable. Renting a bicycle or scooter for the day is a fun way to cover more ground among the spread-out sites. Relax at a riverside café in Hampi Bazaar when you need a break or sip on a fresh coconut.

7. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

Photo by Rakesh sharma

Tucked in the Parvati Valley, Kasol is a backpacker’s paradise known for its bohemian vibe. Surrounded by pine forests and a gurgling river, this little village is an idyllic spot to unwind. It’s super easy to meet people here. It earned its nickname, “Mini Israel,” for its popularity among Israeli backpackers. The area is inexpensive and safe, with plenty of guesthouses and cafés where solo travelers mingle or simply chill out.  

Kasol sits by the Parvati River. One of the best things to do is take a leisurely walk along its banks, breathing in the mountain air. For adventure, trek to Kheerganga, where a natural hot spring awaits at the top. 

You can also hike or jeep to Tosh village for even more stunning valley views and a peek into quaint Himalayan life. Don’t miss visiting Manikaran Sahib, a famous Sikh temple nearby known for its steaming hot springs.

8. Goa

Photo by Andrey X.

Goa is India’s ultimate beach paradise and an accessible travel destination. Whether you want to party all night or find a quiet stretch of sand, Goa has you covered. It’s full of backpacker hostels, beach shacks, and music cafés.

Goa is used to tourists from all over, so locals are generally friendly, and many speak English. Head north if you’re into lively beaches and nightlife, or south if you prefer serene shores and nature. 

In North Goa, places like Anjuna and Vagator are famous for their flea markets and beach parties. You can dance under the stars or enjoy live music by the sea. Down in South Goa, beaches like Palolem and Agonda are quieter and postcard-perfect, ideal for morning yoga on the sand and lazy afternoons with a book. 

Beyond the beaches, explore Old Goa’s Portuguese heritage. The Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral are UNESCO sites that showcase Goa’s rich history. Adventure lovers can try water sports, from jet skiing to scuba diving. 

9. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Photo by First Last

For seasoned adventurers, Spiti Valley offers solitude on a grand scale. This high-altitude desert in the Himalayas has many villages sitting over 12,000 feet. Going solo in Spiti is a true confidence booster. 

The terrain is challenging, but locals are very welcoming, and homestays make finding a safe, cozy place to sleep each night easy. With far fewer tourists than most other destinations, you experience pristine villages and ancient monasteries almost entirely to yourself. 
 

Base yourself in Kaza, Spiti’s main town. From there, visit the stunning Key Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched on a hilltop. You can join monks for morning prayers and enjoy panoramic valley views here. 

If you’re there in summer, venture to Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude turquoise lake surrounded by barren mountains. Many travelers camp overnight at Chandratal under an explosion of stars.

Drive or bike up to Kunzum Pass for sweeping Himalayan vistas. Remember that Spiti’s roads are open depending on the season, so plan your trip accordingly.  

10. Auroville, Tamil Nadu

Photo by mazzzur

Auroville isn’t a typical tourist spot. It’s an experimental township built on human unity, sustainable living, and spiritual growth ideals. For solo travelers, it offers the chance to be part of a community while still enjoying personal space. 

Auroville welcomes newcomers. Even if you arrive alone, you can easily join in on community activities or volunteer projects. It’s safe, serene, and perfect for an introspective trip focused on personal growth.

The heart of Auroville is the Matrimandir, a giant golden sphere meditation hall representing the “Soul of Auroville.” Visit the viewing point to see it shining in the sun. You can book a session if you plan to meditate inside in complete silence. 

Various communities around Auroville are dedicated to the arts, ecology, and education. You could spend your mornings helping on an organic farm or join a yoga, pottery, or sustainable living workshop. Rent a bicycle or scooter to explore Auroville’s dirt paths that wind through forests and farmland. Life here is quiet and mindful, giving you plenty of time for reflection.  

Takeaway

Traveling solo in India is an experience filled with freedom and personal growth. The country offers something for every kind of traveler, from the mountains of the north to the coasts of the south. Embrace the journey with an open heart, and you’ll be more confident and full of unforgettable memories.

If you ever feel uncertain, you can join group tours or look into solo trip packages for extra support.

OneAir is a one-stop platform that makes trip planning easy and affordable. As your travel companion, we can help you book cheap flights and hotels without hassle. Ready to take off on your next adventure? Sign up for free for OneAir and start crafting your unforgettable solo journey today.