At some point, we'd say that travelling solo becomes a necessity rather than a choice. Hear us out, as life gets busier, its nearly impossible to band all of your friends or family together, with all of their different schedules, and have them agree upon a date and a budget. So, either you can wait around for this miracle to happen or decide to undertake solo adventures (which we believe you really should). Travelling solo can prove to bring forth self-discovery and a lot of confidence, and it can be an experience that brings you closer to your inner self, (cc: Rani from Queen). You get to meet new people, gain worldly experiences, and explore on your own, (like the main character that you are), and to make things easier for you, we have curated a list of the best spots, from hill stations to beach destinations, that you must bookmark for your first or next solo adventures.
8 Destinations In India That Are Perfect For Your Ritualistic Solo Trip
Jibhi
If you are someone who likes to take the path less travelled, then Jibhi is a hidden gem that is surrounded by dense pinewood forests and freshwater lakes. You can visit apple orchards or go trekking (Serolsar Lake Trek), and the waterfalls will definitely prove to be an enchanting and refreshing experience. Plus, the warmth and hospitality of the locals, along with serene views, make it a perfect spot for anyone's first solo adventure.
Best Way To Reach: The best way is to take a car directly, book a taxi, or drive there yourself. If you are planning to go by bus, keep in mind that you will have to change twice to reach the village. (Delhi-Aut-Jibhi)
Places To Check Out: Balo Temple, Chehni Kothi, Raghupur Fort, and Jalori Pass
Sikkim
Sikkim is one of the most popular spots among travel enthusiasts, a place that proves to offer something new every time you visit. From snow-covered Himalayas to pristine monasteries, the place offers every kind of travel adventure. One can go trekking, relax in a boutique property, or visit old shrines preserved by the Nepali community. It is also recognised as the World's first organic state by the UN, and based on which part you wish to explore, you can plan your journey and adventure accordingly. We'd like to especially mention the food, as the place offers some of the best authentic dim sum and dumplings. Your car journeys will consist of spectacular views throughout, and the simple living of the locals will really inspire you to reset and rethink, and be more reflective about things—a perfect place for someone embarking on a spiritual quest.
ProTip: To sort out your East Sikkim itinerary, check this out.
Best Way To Reach: The easiest way to reach, is to fly to Bagdogra Airport or take a train to the NJP station and then get a cab to reach the princely state.
Places To Check Out: Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, Valleys around Lachung and Lachen.
Puducherry
If beaches are more of your jam than mountains, then Puducherry is one of the places that you must check out. The architecture all around is French-inspired, and there are multiple beaches, that are extremely well maintained and clean. For a solo traveller, this place is super convenient, really accessible in terms of transportation and food, and extremely safe. The food there, is diverse, influenced by a lot of cultures, and the place harbours some amazing cafes, and eateries, although having a French breakfast is non-negotiable.
ProTip: Check out our favourite things to do in Puducherry here.
Best Way To Reach: Fly out to Chennai airport, and then take a taxi or a cab to reach Puducherry.
Places To Check Out: Promenade beach, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, The Sacred Heart Basilica
Manali
We'd acknowledge that Manali has gone mainstream, attracting just too many tourists at almost all times. But it still doesn't diminish the one-of-a-kind experience it offers, and if you plan smartly with good research, you can spot some amazing gems, that aren't overdone. You don't have to worry about accessibility here, and can do a number of activities, like paragliding, camping, trekking, etc, with stunning views all around.
ProTip: Check out the most happening things to do in Manali here.
Best Way To Reach: You can take buses and taxis, from any part of North India, and the nearest airport is Kullu-Manali airport.
Places To Check Out: Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Jogini Falls, Vashisth Temple, and Hot Springs
Meghalaya
We are going to say this about Meghalaya only, but this place is meant to be explored alone or with a chosen few. A favourite among backpackers, often making their way from Shillong to Guwahati, and then Cherrapunji, the 'Scotland of the East' has the richest biodiversity and heavenly views all around. The best time to visit is during the autumn season, when their tea gardens are in full bloom, with waterfalls, hikes, and treks all around. The locals are extremely helpful and will accompany you on your hikes, and the weather in Meghalaya will never fail to delight.
ProTip: Know everything about Dawki in Meghalaya here.
Best Way To Reach: Fly to Guwahati airport, and then take a taxi or a cab to reach Meghalaya. There are also government bus services available, but you can always hire a private vehicle to take you, as the bus schedules are a little restricted.
Places To Check Out: Garo Hills, Jaintia Hills, Shillong City
Alleppey
The backwaters of Alleppey are known to be the best places to experience some of the most epic sunrises. Kerala's food and culture need no introduction, as everything there looks like something out of a fairytale. One can go kayaking, bird-watching, on a shikara experience, explore the rice fields of Kuttanad, live in a boat, and we cannot forget about the beaches of Alleppey, which are surreal. Idiyappam with curry is the ultimate soul food, and if you are looking to travel far south for your next adventure, then Alleppey is the place, that is budget-friendly, accessible, and a must visit.
Best Way To Reach: Take a flight to Cochin airport, and you can take a bus or a taxi to reach the main town of Alleppey, which is approximately 75 km away. You can also take buses, which are well connected to major cities in India.
Places To Check Out: Alappuzaha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Marari Beach, Vembanad Lake, St. Mary Forane Church, Kuttanad.
Gokarana
Just five hours away from Goa, Gokarana is all about food, beaches, and good times. It is a quaint version of Goa, best to visit around August to March, when the weather is pleasant and all of the water sports are open. If you plan for your solo travel is to relax more, and want to make your solo trip a short break where you only unwind and breathe a little, this place should definitely be on your list.
ProTip: Check out beach dresses that are not floral here.
Best Way To Reach: Well connected to most cities, you can reach Dabolim Airport and then get a taxi there. The nearest railway station is 20 kilometers away from Gokarana, situated at Angola Beach. But if you're coming from Karnataka, we'd recommend the bus route, as their are direct buses.
Places To Check Out: 10-kilometer-long Gokaran Trek, Cafes and Shacks around the beach, Yana Caves, Vibhuti Falls, Mirjan Fort, Jog Falls, Honnavar.
Lahaul - Spiti
We have all seen an upsurge in people embarking on riding journeys and visiting Lahaul-Spiti. It has become a popular spot, and if you have reservations about going alone, there are many groups that organise trips there regularly, which you can be a part of. With beautiful views, stargazing, and visiting Budhist monasteries, Lahaul-Spiti is a unique experience where you can reconnect with yourself and enjoy a much-deserved break.
Best Way To Reach: You can take an overnight bus, or drive your own private vehicle.
Places To Visit: Lanza Village, Chicham Bridge, Hikkim Village, Key Monastery
ProTip
We have also prepared a travel essentials check list for you; check it out here.
