20 Amazing Destinations for Your First Solo Trip to India

If you are planning your first solo trip to India, then you need not overthink. India is one place where every visitor can have a myriad of experiences. There are so many destinations for your first solo trip to India that you are spoilt with options. Solo travel is a quest to discover oneself along with spiritual rejuvenation and adventures. If you seek to travel to escape crowds or try new things, solo traveling is a remedy for your body, mind, and soul.

India offers a host of incredible destinations for your first solo trip. The top options for travelers, bit by the travel bug, are not confined to one particular place in India.

Here are 20 Amazing Destinations for your first solo trip to India:

1. Rajasthan – Rich Cultural Heritage
2. Goa – Beach Paradise
3. Kerala – God’s Own Country
4. Ladakh – Aventure of a Lifetime
5. Manali – Majestic Himalayan Peaks
6. Hampi – Ancient Ruins
7. Darjeeling – Lush Tea Estates
8. Lahaul – Spiti – Tibetan-influenced Culture
9. Puducherry – Beautiful Churches
10. Bandhavgarh National Park – Exotic Wildlife
11. Varanasi – Oldest Living City
12. Gulmarg – Skiing Adventure
13. Jaisalmer – Gateway to the Thar Desert
14. Mahabalipuram – Remarkable Temples
15. Dharamshala – Winter Capital of Himachal Pradesh
16. Rishikesh – Yoga and Spiritual Capital
17. Auli – Skiing Capital
18. Gangtok – Mount Kanchenjunga Views
19. Mumbai – City of Bollywood
20. Ooty – Tea Plantations

Rajasthan – Rich Cultural Heritage

Rajasthan is a land of deserts and home to some amazing forts, palaces, mansions, temples, and lakes. This royal land is one of the most remarkable places for the first solo trip in India. The rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan will make you fall in love with this place. The unexplored forts, glistening lakes, exquisite Havelis, and lavish hospitality will take you into the bygone era of Maharajas. One will be able to experience such grandeur in this place. Camping and taking a safari in the unending Thar Desert is a one-of-a-kind experience.

• Best time for a solo trip: November to February
• Things to do: Desert Safari, Jungle Safari, Camping in golden dunes, Elephant ride to Amer Fort, Boating in Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake, village tours, etc.
• Getting there:  Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan which is well connected with the rest of the country and it has an international airport that has good connectivity with Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Muscat, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, etc. The rest of the famous cities are also well linked with the rest of the world and India with roadways, airways, and railways.

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Goa – Beach Paradise

Goa is perfect for a solo traveler, in fact, it is one of the best destinations for your first solo trip to India. The land of sun, sea, and shores offers the idyllic opportunity to do soul searching. Marvel at glorious sunrises and sunsets. Stay in beach camps with many hippies at heart. Go beach hopping, there are more than 50. Enjoy swimming and activities like jet-ski, snorkeling, scuba diving, boat rides, etc. Trek to the Dudhsagar waterfalls, take a backwater cruise, or go exploring the wildlife sanctuaries. Nightlife, festivals, dining, and sightseeing add to your incredible vacation.

• Best time for a solo trip: November to February, when a lot of people rush in for the New Year.
• Things to do: Spend days, weeks, or months. You will never have enough of the scenic beauty, the simple lifestyle, or the experiences of Goa. Hire a motorbike or a scooter, and off you go exploring. Laze on the beach, go sightseeing or try adventure sports.
• Getting There: The closest railway station is Margao, and the closest airport is Dabolim. You can get around in cabs or even hire scooters to see the place yourself.

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Kerala – God’s Own Country

Kerala is famous by the name of God’s own country. Snuggled on the Malabar Coast in Southern India, this tiny little paradise is dotted with a large network of backwaters, shimmering lakes, glistening beaches, unexplored national parks, and rolling hills filled with the aroma of tea and coffee plantation. Kerala is nothing less than a paradise for travel enthusiasts. The astonishing beauty of this place is beyond any description. You can pamper yourself and indulge in the rejuvenating retreat of Ayurveda. Kerala owns some of the best resorts in the world which offers luxury and Ayurvedic treatments.

• Best time for a solo trip: September to February
• Things to do: Tea, coffee, and spice plantation tour, Shikara and houseboat tour in backwaters, indulge in Ayurveda and Yoga retreats, a jungle safari in Periyar and Eravikulam National Park, etc.
• Getting there: Cochin, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode have international airports that are well connected with the major cities of several countries such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, New York, London, etc. The railheads of Kerala are well linked with other major cities of the country and the road network is also well established with the nearby cities that one can drive up to Kerala.

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Ladakh – Adventure of a Lifetime

The remotest region of the country owns the most beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by the mightiest mountains, the Great Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, the Ladakh has so much in its bucket. The journey to the Ladakh is a bit rough as it is situated in the rugged mountains which will take you through some of the world’s highest passes but the journey is worth enough. The glacial lakes, barren mountains which changes color with every ray of the sun, and the beautiful terrains of the Ladakh offer magnificent views.

• Best time for a solo trip: May to October
• Things to do: Camel Safari on Bactrian camel, cross the highest motorable roads like Khardungla, Chang La, Shinkhu La, Shipki La, Baralacha La, etc., bike trip to the remotest places, Chadar Trek, trek to Stok Kangri, and many more.
• Getting there: Leh has a domestic airport that is well-connected with Delhi and it is connected with the rest of the world. The next nearest airport is in Srinagar. Jammu railway station is the nearest railhead. The road trip is the best way to explore the mesmerizing beauty of the valley. Get a bus from Manali and Srinagar.

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Plan a trip to the ‘Land of High Passes’ and explore these 14 Best Places To Visit Leh Ladakh

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Manali – Majestic Himalayan Peaks

Manali is the classic escape in the hills. Settled in the lap of Himalayas on the banks of Beas River in Himachal Pradesh, Manali is one of the top places for solo trip in India. The hill town enjoys two major seasons of summer and winter, you can take your pick of which season you want to experience Manali. Summer is perfect for exploring, trekking, river rafting and other sports. Winters brings snow and snow sports. The old town, ancient temples, hot springs, monasteries and other places from Hindu legends are open throughout the year.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Spend days exploring the hills. Go trekking or camping in the mountains. Explore the tourist sights, hot-springs, monasteries, temples, apple orchards, etc. Get to Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley, where you can enjoy adventure sports.
• Getting there: You can either fly to Bhuntar which is 10 km from Manali or take an overnight bus from Delhi or go on a bike ride if you want a longer, more scenic path.

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Hampi – Ancient Ruins

Hampi is a paradise for history buffs, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city of ruins. This city is an open museum and consists of some 500 ancient monuments. The captivating remnants of the Vijayanagar Empire will leave you stunned. Explore the ruins of ancient temples and other structures. This city is located on the bank of the Tungabhadra River and famous for its beautifully carved temples. This is one of the most beautiful places in India which can explore solo. Hampi is a heaven for mountaineers, they especially come here to practice the rock climbing in Badami.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to February
• Things to do: Explore the enchanting ruins of the ancient structures, ferry ride, city tour on cycle, rock climbing, etc.
• Getting there: The nearest airport to the Hampi is the Belgaum Airport which is 270 km. And the nearest international airport is the Kempe Gowda International Airport, Bengaluru which is 300 km. One can easily get a cab from there. Hampi is well connected with the major cities of Karnataka. Hampi has no railway station and the nearest railway station is Hospet which is 13 km. It is well connected with the major cities of India by railhead.

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Darjeeling – Lush Tea Estates

Nestled at 2,050 meters above the sea level and flaunts its mesmerizing beauty, Darjeeling is a paradise for nature lovers. The experience of jaw-dropping locales and the old-world charm of this place is out of the world. Dotted with the lush green slopes, colonial architectural mansions, churches, and innumerable tea estates. This place gives a mesmerizing view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. This scenic hill station is one of the most treasures of India. Darjeeling Gangtok Tour is one of the most sought after tour package by solo travelers who wish to explore North-East India.

• Best time for a solo trip: February to March and September to November
• Things to do: The toy train ride, Gondola ride, tea plantation tour, trekking, nature walks, etc.
• Getting there: Bagdogra is the nearest airport which is 94 km from Darjeeling. It is well connected with the major cities. The New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station which is about 88 km. One can easily get a cab or taxi from the airport or railway station to Darjeeling. And it is well-connected with the nearby cities by road network.

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Lahaul – Spiti – Tibetan-influenced Culture

Lahaul and Spiti are two places perfect for a solo trip. Settled in the remotest corner of Himachal Pradesh, these locations are what we can say are the best destinations for your first solo trip to India. These are one of the most unexplored terrains in the country. Explore rugged mountains, cross high altitude mountain passes, ancient monasteries, glacial lakes, and breathtaking views in the mountain locales. Stay in the monasteries, Ki, Kibber, Tabo, Dhankar or trek to Chandra Taal or stay in the humble villages of the mountain, whatever you do, it will be an unforgettable experience.

• Best time for a solo trip: May to October.
• Things to do: Trekking, camping at Chandra Taal, exploring ancient monasteries, bike tours, village stays, etc.
• Getting there: One of the remotest locations in India, you can visit from Manali. This trip is strict to be taken by road to actually experience what it is all about. Some of the highest motorable roads in the world exist here.

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Puducherry – Beautiful Churches

Fun, history and a feel of France, Puducherry is one of the best places for your first solo trio to India. The little union territory snuggled on the shores of Bay of Bengal is a perfect escape for a vacation with yourself. Hire a cycle and go exploring the beautiful colonial architecture French in style. Get to the beach for some serene moments. Auroville Ashram is the place to go if you want to connect with your spiritual side. The food are French delights and beer is cheap, so quite a happy vacation for all.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to February
• Things to do: Explore the French pleasures, go cycling or walking around the city, taste the delicacies in the quaint shacks, restaurants and eateries, etc.
• Getting there: The closest airport and railway station is in Chennai. A scenic drive from Chennai is one of the best ways to get to the town. Hire a bike or cycle or walk around the town.

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Bandhavgarh National Park – Exotic Wildlife

When life becomes wild, it is best to escape to the wilderness, and Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the best destinations for a solo trip to India. Set amid Satpura and Vidhyan area, the National Park is best known to be the home of Tigers. The former hunting ground of the Rewa Maharaja is blessed with biodiversity. The park is home to around 250 species of birds, 80 species of butterflies, reptiles, and many more. Spend the days on wildlife safari or make plans for other places in Madhya Pradesh, as here is where you discover the soul of India.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Wildlife safari, photography, excursions to Pench, Tadoba and other Tiger Sanctuaries. You can also plan an extensive itinerary in Madhya Pradesh with a long break in Bandhavgarh National Park.
• Getting There: The nearest airport is in Khajuraho and the nearest railway station is Umaria after Katani Railway Station.

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Varanasi – Oldest Living City

One of the oldest cities in India, Varanasi is a place one must experience. After you have been to Varanasi, you will know why the city is named among the amazing destinations for your first solo trip in India. Settled on the banks of the holy Ganga River, spiritual to the core, the city creates a unique connection with the divine. Do take baths in the river, a sure way for salvation from the circle of life. The temples, river ghats, and the Ganga aarti will touch you spiritually. Discover yourself, amid crowds from different walks of life.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to February.
• Things to do: Visit ancient temples including the Vishwanath Temple, go for a boat ride on the River Ganga and to see the sun rise and spread its glory on the city. Spend time walking on the river ghats. Attend the Ganga aarti in the evening a truly memorable experience.
• Getting there: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi is the closest airport. Varanasi Railway station is the nearest rail connection.

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Gulmarg – Skiing Adventure

Providing a respite from cities, Kashmir’s beauty Gulmarg is one of the best places for a solo trip in India. Snuggled in the lap of mountains, the hill town is one place which you can visit any time of the year and have a great time. Winters bring snow and the season for skiing. Summers are perfect for camping, trekking, golfing and other activities. Gulmarg Gondola ride will be one of the fun experiences. Go to the top of the Aparwahat mountain, the views are picturesque. Spend days exploring, the fresh mountain air revitalizes your senses.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Golfing, trekking, camping, gondola rides, etc. Create an itinerary making stops at other beautiful places of Kashmir,
• Getting there: Gulmarg is just 2 hours from Srinagar. The closest airport is in Srinagar. The nearest railway station is in Jammu.

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Jaisalmer – Gateway to the Thar Desert

Jaisalmer, the heart of the Thar Desert is an exotic destination and one of the truly amazing destinations for a first solo trip in India. The desert town has a perfect combination of history, you can spend days exploring the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, Jain Temples, Gadsisar lake, markets and other sights. Adventures await in the Sam Sand Dunes, 44 km from Jaisalmer. Go desert camping, camel safari and on village visits. In the stark beauty of the desert, have a wonderful vacation with yourself. Enjoy the life of royals with a stay in one of the heritage hotels.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to March
• Things to do: Explore the historical sites, go desert camping, camel safari, village visit, etc.
• Getting there: The nearest domestic airport is Jodhpur Airport and the nearest is Jaisalmer railway station. A well-maintained network of roads connects Jaisalmer.

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Mahabalipuram – Remarkable Temples

An excerpt from history, Mahabalipuram is a small temple-town on the Coromandel shores along the Bay of Bengal. Once a major sea-port of the Pallava Kingdom, the ruins of Mahabalipuram are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture of the rock-cut temples is beautiful and you need to see it to believe it. Marvel at the marvelous creations of a single rock, the Shore temple, Arjun’s Penance, and the Panch Pandava Rathas are the most impressive beauties. First-time solo travelers in Mahabalipuram can enjoy a peaceful vacation on the shores surrounded by history.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to March.
• Things to do: Explore the UNESCO historical sites, sightseeing, spend time on the beach, village visit, etc.
• Getting there: Chennai is the closest city to the coastal town, around 65 km. The closest airport and railway station are in Chennai city.

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Dharamshala – Winter Capital of Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala is one of the best places for solo vacations in India. The hill town in Himachal Pradesh is home to the largest Tibetan community in India, and the abode of the exiled Dalai Lama. Travelers enjoy the Tibetan monasteries, if you are lucky you can get an audience with the Holy Highness. The Tibetan community makes you feel right at home. Adventure is another calling for travelers in Dharamshala as trekking, camping and paragliding are available in abundance. The Triund trek brings visitors throughout the year. You may come here alone but you always return with wonderful memories.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Visit Tibetan monasteries, go trekking, enjoy paragliding, and spend days with the Tibetan community.
• Getting there: Easiest to reach by a flight to Dharamshala. Take a bus to the hill town as it gives you the feel of your trip.

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Rishikesh – Yoga and Spiritual Capital

Truly meant for soul-searching, Rishikesh is one of the amazing destinations for your first solo trip to India. Settled on the banks of River Ganga in the foothills of the Himalayas, the town is a mix of spirituality, bliss, and adventure. Rishikesh is just perfect for a solo traveler, you will never need any company as you can easily get the company of many like-minded strangers. Yoga and meditation camps, ashrams, and temples provide the perfect opportunity to connect with yourself and cheap accommodation. River-rafting, camping, fox flying, rock climbing, bungee jumping, and many more adventures are available.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Visit temples, river rafting, go trekking, camping enjoy paragliding, and spend days with the Tibetan community.
• Getting there: Haridwar is the nearest railway station and the Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest air connection. There are also frequent buses available from Delhi.

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Auli – Skiing Capital

Another beautiful escape in the mountains, Auli is a fine choice for a first solo trip to India. The popular skiing destination in India is located in Uttarakhand. The pleasing environment of the hill town lures travelers throughout the year. The summer season is ideal for camping and trekking, while the winter is perfect for skiing. The hill town is a good pick for both leisure and adventure. The picturesque beauty is a balm to your soul as you can marvel at the snowcapped peaks of Nanda Devi and other peaks. Trekking, skiing, and gondola rides add thrill to your trip.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Trekking, camping, skiing, gondola rides.
• Getting there: The best way to get to Auli is by road. Only 16 km drive from Joshimath, State transport and Union buses play regularly. The nearest railway station is Haridwar and the closest airport is in Dehradun.

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Gangtok – Mount Kanchenjunga Views

Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok is a popular hill station in India that attracts a large number of solo travelers from all over the world. Known for hosting several Buddhist monasteries, do visit the Rumtek Monastery. The hill town has a lot of multi-cuisine restaurants, bars, and lounges, creating the perfect opportunity to befriend strangers. Trekking opportunities like the Green Lake trek and Goecha La Trek excite the solo travelers. You can also visit Nathu La Pass, Tsomgo Lake, and other places nearby. River rafting in River Teesta, walking through the town, festivals and other experiences make your solo vacation all the more wonderful.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to June.
• Things to do: Visit monasteries, sightseeing, trekking, river rafting, explore the hill town, etc.
• Getting there: Cabs frequently arrived at the hill town. Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport and New Jalpaiguri railway station is the nearest railway station.

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Mumbai – City of Bollywood

How can you skip Mumbai? It is one of the best cities for a first solo trip in India. The lively city is a “the city that never sleeps”. Representing Indian diversity, the city is the home to the glamour of Bollywood, several heritage sites, pilgrimage, beaches, art galleries, museums, and thrilling nightlife. Sometimes crowds are where you actually discover yourself so Mumbai is perfect for the urban travelers seeking new experiences. You can get away from everything and float on the vibes of the megapolis.

• Best time for a solo trip: Throughout the year.
• Things to do: Ride the local trains, have a taste of the street food, sit on the beaches, walk on Marine drive, check out the historical sites, go club hopping, etc.
• Getting there: Mumbai has its own airport and railway station, you can get to the megapolis easily.

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Ooty – Tea Plantations

Hills are the best getaways for a solo trip in India. The Queen of Hills, Ooty is snuggled in the lap of verdant Western Ghats. Set in the lap of the Nilgiris, the town is a beauty. As far as you see you find lush tea plantations. There are remnants of the British colonial era. Beautiful mountain trails to trek are only a few miles away. With the salubrious climate, the indulgence of chocolates, the fun ride on the toy train, or just some days getting away from the city, Ooty is perfect for a visit throughout the year.

• Best time for a solo trip: October to May.
• Things to do: Ride the toy train, gorge on chocolates, go trekking, boating, cycling, etc.
• Getting there: The Nilgiri Mountain railways is the best and easy way to get to reach the hill town. Roads are also well connected to the hill town. The nearest airport is Coimbatore Airport.

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Now that you have all the information on where to go for your first solo travel to India, browse through travel tips for solo travelers in India.

Get on the road to your soulful excursion, and browse through our customized solo travel packages in India. You can also opt for getting your travel plans customized.

Excited about the solo trip to India? Check out our collection of Popular Solo Travel Packages and embark on a journey of a lifetime.

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