5 Amazing Solo Travel Destinations in India (2024)

Some destinations in the world deserve to be explored by yourself. At least once, all of us have entertained the thought of traveling to some faraway land by ourselves, having the trip of a lifetime. Solo travel is gaining popularity worldwide as the sheer spontaneity to travel amidst hectic work schedules makes it a preferred choice.

India is the perfect destination for solo travelers. If you want to embark on a quest to discover yourself and undertake a journey of spiritual rejuvenation while weaving adventurous stories, just pack your bags and head to India to have the best solo holiday of your life.

5 Amazing Solo Travel Destinations in India

Here are some of the best places for an exhilarating solo travel experience in India:

1. Manali in Himachal Pradesh

Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India. It offers the most stunning views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal Mountain Ranges that remain covered under snow for a better part of the year. In fact, Manali has emerged as a popular solo travel destination in India with its ambient cafes, excellent Wi-Fi availability, convenient shops, small and affordable eateries. With the growing culture of ‘work from home,’ Manali has emerged as a superb workcation destination.

When in Manali, there are many places to check out and, of course, a lot of adventure activities to take part in. Old Manali is one of the favorite neighborhoods for solo travelers, as there are many hostels and homestays that offer cheaper plans for more extended stays.

The best places to check out in Manali include the Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Old Manali, Jogini Waterfall, and the Hidimba Temple. For adventure lovers, Manali is a hub of adventure activities in North India. You can choose from white river rafting or go trekking. You can even go skiing, paragliding, and horse riding. There is something for every solo adventurer. Even zorbing is a popular activity here.

As many solo travelers prefer to go trekking in the solitude of nature, Manali makes for the perfect destination as it is an excellent base for exploring this side of the majestic Himalayan Range. When it comes to rafting, the River Beas offers many opportunities in the nearing town of Kullu. The Parvati River also passes through the Parvati Valley with Kasol, Tosh, Manikaran, and many other small villages. You can now also traverse the length of the Atal Tunnel, which takes you to Spiti within just a few hours.

End your trip with a visit to the Rohtang Pass that is nearly always covered in snow. Located just 50 kilometers from Manali, the Rohtang Pass is situated at an impressive altitude of 3978 meters. A day off to see the vita point of Rohtang Pass will make for the ultimate destination on your itinerary.

2. Delhi

Delhi, the capital city of India, is one city where you will never feel alone. This bustling and vibrant city is the starting point for the most significant tours that take you across the country. There are many affordable accommodation options here, and they are ideal for solo travelers and even backpackers. It is easy to get around the city using the well-connected metro network.

Delhi is a cosmopolitan city that is a beautiful amalgamation of the historic older part of Old Delhi. The newer part of the city is referred to as New Delhi. There is no shortage of beautiful monuments and glitzy shopping malls to see in Delhi. This city with a heart is the best place for any solo traveler.

To begin exploring Delhi, one must head to the narrow, winding bylanes of Old Delhi that stand testament to the Mughal rule of the yesteryears. Old Delhi is home to Asia’s largest spice market, the Khari Baoli. You also get to experience the most colorful, vibrant, and the country’s oldest and busiest market here – Chandni Chowk.

While in Old Delhi, there are many historically significant monuments to explore, including the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Shri Digamber Jain Lal Mandir, St. James Church, and the Fatehpuri Masjid.

As we make our way from the ancient bylanes of Old Delhi, let us explore the many famous temples in Delhi. Some of the notable ones you must visit include the Akshardham Temple, which looks like a grand palace, the Lotus or Bahai Temple, and the ISKON Temple.

There are many other attractions to be seen in Central Delhi, which is the country’s political power seat. Visit the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the home of the Indian President located on the magnificent Raisina Hill. India Gate, another famous monument, is located just a stone’s throw from Raisina Hill. The best time to visit this area is in the evening when all the buildings get lit up in a brilliant display of light. The sight of the Amar Jawan Jyoti, or the Eternal Flame, shining brightly at India Gate is also best seen after sunset.

Delhi is also a shopper’s paradise. You will find many colorful bazaars to buy knick-knacks from, as well as many upscale markets that offer the classiest of things. You will be sure to have doubled your luggage by the time you depart from Delhi.

3. Udaipur in Rajasthan

It is difficult to pick just one city to visit in Rajasthan as all the towns of this beautiful desert state of India are exquisitely beautiful. Let us, however, settle with the prettiest city of Rajasthan, Udaipur. Fondly known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is a surreal experience. A jewel in the crown of India, this beautiful state is surrounded by the majestic Aravali Hills from all directions. Also known as the Venice of the East, due to a large number of lakes in the city, Udaipur has some breathtaking architecture, charming temples, and many historical monuments to visit.

For the solo traveler, the trip should begin with a boat ride on the peaceful waters of Lake Pichola. Lake Pichola is the oldest and largest lake of Udaipur, and lakhs of tourists come here every year to take in its beauty. Surrounded by the impressive hills, many heritage buildings, and exotic bathing ghats, Lake Pichola is like a dream on the water.

It is preferable to book the book ride during the evenings as you can see the sun’s golden rays bathe the entire area in mesmerizing hues. As the water turns golden and the lights come on in the city, the enthralling view will transport you to another world altogether.

There are many beautiful and exotic places to visit in Udaipur, including:

• City Palace
• Fateh Sagar Lake
• Jaisamand Lake
• Jagdish Temple
• Sajjangarh Palace
• Eklingji Temple
• Vintage Car Museum

Many traditional Havelis have been converted into hotels and youth hostels that offer excellent deals for long and short stays if you are traveling solo. Udaipur is also a great weekend destination from Delhi. If you want to visit Jaipur the Pink City, another gem in the crown of Rajasthan, make sure to stop at the Chittorgarh Fort to witness the architectural prowess of that era.

4. Mumbai in Maharashtra

Mumbai, the City of Dreams, is a must-visit for every solo traveler to India. This city is a spectacular combination of glamor and glitz with the daily mundane life. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is home to Bollywood, India’s movie industry.

The city has so much to offer that you will be left wondering where to begin your journey from. This is the city that never sleeps. The commercial capital of India, there is something for everyone here. From theaters to nightclubs to beaches and heritage monuments, the sights and sounds of this city are spectacular. One of the biggest highlights of visiting Mumbai is to check out the Film City to see how a movie is shot. You can get the entire Bollywood studio experience as you visit a private studio, get behind the scenes of moviemaking, shake a leg on hit Bollywood songs, and if you are lucky, get to meet some of the stars as they rush in and out of studios.

Some of the best attractions to check out in Mumbai include:

• Marine Drive
• Juhu Beach
• Elephanta Caves
• Colaba Causeway
• Gateway of India
• Film City
• Hanging Gardens
• Prince of Wales Museum
• Essel World
• Mumbai Zoo
• Siddhivinayak Temple
• Sanjay Gandhi National Park

5. Goa

No trip to India can be complete without visiting the beautiful state of Goa on the western coast of the country. Goa is one of the smallest states in India, and it is known for its gorgeous beaches, delicious food, and rich Portuguese heritage that is visible throughout the state’s architecture. Having a coastline that stretches for over 100 kilometers, Goa is home to some of the best beaches in the country that attract millions of tourists every year. Goa is also well known for its nightlife. This is also one of the only destinations in India that remains open 24×7.

The time period of Christmas, New Year, and Goa Carnival is especially crowded as thousands of tourists flock to the state to celebrate. Goa is known for some of the best seafood in India. With trendy bars, beach shacks, and many luxury restaurants, you will never be searching long for a place to eat. Also, due to the low alcohol prices in the state, Goa is great for tourists who are traveling on a budget.

The state is primarily divided into North Goa and South Goa. North Goa is known to be the party hub, and the nightlife scene all exists on this side of the state. South Goa is home to the many luxurious beach resorts and miles and miles of golden sandy beaches.

As you enter Goa, you will find the influence of Portuguese architecture throughout the state. Take time out to stroll along with the spectacular churches, ruins of forts, and take a boat ride on the calm Mandovi River. You will be able to catch a glimpse of the famous floating casinos of Goa docked here on big ships.

The stunning beaches of Goa stretch for over 100 kilometers. The Calangute and Baga Beaches are popular for the family crowd, while the Anjuna and Arambol beaches are popular with foreign tourists. If you want to relax in a secluded area, head to the shores of South Goa that are relatively less crowded and untouched.

There are many other destinations in India that are ideal for solo travelers. With so many beautiful destinations, it is best to plan a solo trip to India when you have some time so that you can truly enjoy the culture and heritage of this marvelous country.