Where Can I Go For A Solo Trip In India? 9 Best Solo Trip Destinations In India For A Female Traveler

Thinking “Where Can I Go For A Solo Trip In India”? That too a girl growing up in a brown household? I understand the difficulties you might face if you are also burning with the desire to travel solo. India is magnificent. It’s full of wonder in every nook and crannies. And the incessant desire of the wild spirit that wants to explore all of these wonders surpasses the fear of the unknown. 

A female traveling solo -even though it has been there for a while- is still an alien concept. India can be difficult, especially if you are a female traveling solo. But only those who have an unparalleled appetite for adventure and the ability to consume their fears, dare to take their chances and run free into the wild. 

If you have also dared to take your chances and are going to embark on one of the greatest adventures of your life, this article is your pit stop. This article will list 9 best solo trip destinations in India for a female traveler.

9 Best Solo Trip Destinations In India For A Female Traveler

For a female traveler, safety is of utmost concern. You’ll probably have to nag and throw your arms and legs for days at stretch to get your parents to allow you for a solo trip. But, if you have finally decided to step out of your conch shell and explore, I offer you these 9 destinations that you can travel to as a beginner solo traveler. 

Rajasthan

Rajasthan! Of Course it has to be my first choice. Here’s the answer to your “Where Can I Go For A Solo Trip In India?” I have visited Rajasthan twice and each time I chose to explore two different cities. Rajasthan is rooted in its culture. Its heart beats and lungs breathe culture. Even though the people here are used to seeing new faces every single day, I’d recommend taking your safety precautions.

People here are used to travelers, just not many female solo travelers. From the pink city Jaipur to the city of lakes Udaipur to the blue city Jodhpur, the state offers a plenty of places with architectural marvels and traditional experiences. Watching over the golden sand come alive at eve in Jaisalmer is one of the most amazing moments of my life. 

You shall find many affordable and colorful hostels to stay on your Rajasthan visit and as long as you are not off grid, you shall find uber, ola or other local means of transportation. Buses will surely mean you are squeezed and sandwiched between two individuals on most occasions, but people! Oh god, the people here are so colorful with their own stories to tell, but only if you are ready to listen. Hence, I do not recommend moving around with a resting bitch face, but also, don’t be over friendly. 

When it comes to the local food, there is no match to the “pudina puri” or daal tempered with “pudina”. Man! They for sure love their pudina. Also, don’t forget the sweets and namkeen. For more info visit Rajasthan tourism.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: The best season to visit Rajasthan is winter season from October to March. the temperature remains mostly around 30 degrees and it can dip down to 2 degree Celsius at night.
• Places To Visit: Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, Jaswant Thada in Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Kuldhara (ghost village) near Jaisalmer, Ajmer Sharif etc.
• Nearest Airport: Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer, each of the places have their own airports. You can select the one which is nearest to your destination.

Dharamshala

If you are looking for a quaint mountain town with its own set of Tibetan architectural charm, Dharamshala is your place. Often dubbed as “Mini Tibet”, Dharamshala is home to the “Dalai Lama”, the supreme spiritual leader of Buddhism. He has been living here since the time he escaped tibetian genocide back in the 20th century.

If you are a book lover and love to carry a book along wherever you go, then I recommend carrying a copy of “Seven Years in Tibet”, a 1952 memoir of Austrian mountaineer and SS sergeant Heinrich Harrer. And if you are a movie person instead, watch the movie based on this book starring Brad Pitt. My main point is, try to get to know the culture a little more before you visit the place. 

You can choose to explore the valleys via short treks or visit the monasteries for a spiritual experience. Visit the Tibet Museum to know about the ancient traditions of Tibetans and check if your visit lines with one of the talks/sermons by The Dalai Lama.

Dharamshala is so rooted in Tibetan culture that it hardly feels like India at all. It is so in contrast to Rajasthan. My favorite memories from the place include sitting in the balcony of my homestay, overlooking the snow capped peaks, lush green valleys, clear mountain skies and soaring eagles. Homestays are one of the cheapest ways to have a secure and safe stay in this town. You can also find colorful bubbling hostels and quiet affordable hotels.

Here’s a secret I never shared with anyone. I primarily traveled to Dharamshala to try the infamous local “MOMOS”. Momo lovers, clap your hands! I assure you that you won’t be disappointed. Also do not forget to try the steaming “Thukpa” noodle. Visit Himachal tourism for more information.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: Between March and June when the weather is pleasant. Do not plan between monsoon season as the region experiences landslides.
• Places To Visit: Namgyal Monastery, Kalchakra Temple, Tibetan Library and Archive etc.
• Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: The nearest big railway station is Pathankot. Then take a train from Pathankot to Kangra (from Kangra to Dharamshala, you can take a bus, which takes around half an hour from Kangra station to Dharamshala). However, the short distance train from Pathankot to Kangra takes at least 5-6 hours, thus it is recommended that you take a bus from Pathankot to Dharamshala, which takes about 3 hours.

Also Read : Eternal Love Of Grandparents

Hampi

Hampi is an ancient city dating back to the Sangam era when it used to be the capital of Vijaynagar Empire. The dramatic rocky landscape, delicious food and relaxing feel of a UNESCO heritage site, makes this place one of the safest places for solo female travel. The beautiful carvings and dreamy sunsets of this ancient city will keep you dumbfounded throughout your stay. You will require at least 3 days to discover the best of Hampi.

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Vithala Temple, Lotus Palace, Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi Bazaar, and Hippie Island are the most popular tourist attractions in Hampi. It is best to avoid visiting the most distant regions of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi alone or with only a male guide. If in doubt, join up with other travelers or a group excursion booked online or through your hotel. All of the typical principles for dressing modestly when traveling through India apply, and they will also help shield you from the sun at Hampi. 

While there, try to satiate your taste buds by trying local dishes or cuisines which include roti/bhakri which is a type of bread made with jowar flour, badane kaayi (stuffed brinjal) etc. meals are served on banana leaves but it is definitely wholesome. Non-vegetarians might face some difficulties but you can cross the river to try out chicken or fish curry.

The majority of the affordable lodging is in the nearby town of Hampi Bazaar, which has several fantastic rooftop cafes and guesthouses.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: The ideal time to visit Hampi is during the winter season, which lasts from October to February. Except for the hottest afternoons, the weather in Hampi during this time of year is still mild, making it ideal for exploring the World Heritage Site.
• Places to visit: Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Vithala Temple, Lotus Palace, Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi Bazaar, and Hippie Island etc.
• Nearest Airport: If you prefer to fly, the closest terminal is three hours away at Hubli.
• Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction is nearest to Hampi. Trains to Hospet Junction are the best way to go to Hampi. It takes 30 minutes on a rickshaw to get to Hampi Bazaar from there.

Munnar

Located in Kerala at around 5200 feet above sea level, Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the western ghats. Munnar is cool and relaxing as compared to the other parts of South India. It is a famous tourist spot with lots of honeymooners and foreign tourists, which makes it one of the safest and best solo trip destinations in India for a female traveler.

The hill station is full of tea plantations and estates, but apart from that there are plenty of amazing places to visit. Some of them include Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. Munnar is known for its waterfalls. Lakkom waterfall, Attukad Waterfall and Cheeyappara Waterfall are some of the most famous ones. Eravikulam National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is another site that needs to be visited. It is full of deer, antelopes and endangered Nilgiri Tahrs.

Munnar is well-known for its delectable non-vegetarian food, but vegetarians need not worry. Try the legendary kairali thali. The thali is traditionally served on a banana leaf and contains foods such as salad, elaneer payasam or delicate coconut kheer, mezhukku purattai or mixed vegetable stir fry, rice with sambhar and rasam, and others. Ari pathri and chicken curry are two of Munnar’s most famous dishes. Pathri made with rice flour has a soft, simple, and smooth texture that is a joy for the taste buds. The delectable dish will leave you wanting more.

Female visitors to Munnar may find it more convenient to take a cab trip, while local taxis and buses are also available.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: The best seasons to visit Munnar are autumn (September to November) and winter (December to March), when the temperature is mild. In the autumn, one may observe the flowering of Neelakurinji (Flower that blooms one in 12 years), while in the winter, one can enjoy activities such as trekking and rock climbing.
• Places to visit: Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Eravikulam National Park (UNESCO site) etc.
• Nearest Airport: The region is 125 kilometers from Cochin International Airport and is easily accessible by car.
• Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulum, the nearest railway station, is also well-connected to all major cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is by far one of the most bubbly and easily enjoyable places I have visited so far. Located at the foot of the great Himalayas on the banks of the Ganges River, it has long been considered India’s spiritual cradle. This religious and historic town, also known as Yoganagari, or the ‘City of Yoga,’ has been home to countless saints, rishis, and seekers throughout the years, the most famous of which was The Beatles, who visited Rishikesh on a soul-searching pilgrimage precisely 50 years ago. 

Visit the Beatles Ashram, where they famously meditated and wrote songs (while also consuming a ton of drugs). And, with yoga becoming a global sensation, Rishikesh is firmly back in the spotlight as one of the top places to come for the Indian art of yoga and spirituality. You’ll meet a lot of other travelers, many practicing yoga. The various cafes in Rishikesh, staying in an ashram, taking yoga courses, attending the daily Aarti ritual at Triveni Ghat, visiting sandy beaches along the Ganges, white water rafting, and walking in the countryside are all of the things that make Rishikesh my favorite spot.

Rishikesh’s food scene is a delicious combination of traditional flavors and new culinary innovations, inspired by the wealth of local products and the region’s rich cultural legacy. 

Rishikesh’s streets are a treasure trove of flavors, from crunchy pakoras and tangy chaats to sizzling hot samosas and decadent sweets. Each meal here has a fascinating story that will leave you wanting more.

With numerous hostels at very affordable prices, and easy navigation around the city with Ola and Uber, this city is one of the best solo trip destinations in India for girls. Rishikesh is easily accessible from the famous cities via air and road. I took a bus from Chandigarh, you can take a bus or train from Delhi.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: It is advisable to visit Rishikesh between October and March to get the most out of it. Summer is the most popular season for adventure sports. And the monsoon has its own set of festivities.
• Places to visit: Beatles Aashram, Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula etc.
• Nearest Airport: Dehradun Airport is 40 minutes away. 
• Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh is an hour’s drive from Haridwar train station.

Amritsar

If you are still wondering “Where can I go for a solo trip in India?” This is the place! Amritsar is very much on the tourist grid. And it definitely is the place! There are some fascinating things to do in Amritsar apart from visiting the “Golden temple”. I have visited the place twice, and each time, the city felt as welcoming as ever.

The temple complex has hostels and langar facility, if visiting the temple is your prime motto. But if you want to explore other places too like Jallianwallah bagh museum (which is located in Jallianwala bagh itself), I’d suggest you book a hotel well in advance. Since it is a tourist place, finding lodging is very difficult if you don’t book in time. The first time I visited, I did not do that and I almost felt stranded in the narrow lanes of the city at 10 PM. 

The doors to the temple never close and if you want to visit the inside of the shrine, you might want to stand in the queue in the wee hours itself. The queue starts to build up at around 2AM! Imagine that! 

Sikhism values community service, and the temple kitchen serves 100,000 hungry people every day. If you volunteer, you’ll be able to observe how everything is produced using massive curry pots and roti conveyor belts. I noticed the most innovative jugaad for a water serving machine! While you are there, do not forget to taste Amritsari Kulcha and Lassi.

Another reason to go to Amritsar is to see the exciting Wagah Border parade. Each day on the Pakistani border, the two countries compete in an OTT retreat ceremony in their ceremonial uniforms along with other events. A return rickshaw trip from Amritsar is simple to arrange. I haven’t yet seen this but I am very excited about it.

I have been yearning for it since my NCC (National Cadet Corps) days and that was 6 years ago. Since then, I visited Amritsar twice, but could not find time to witness this mesmerizing show. Hopefully soon, as my mister boyfriend is getting posted there! And who doesn’t want a VIP ticket to this face-off between two arch enemies, friendly neighbors? 

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: The ideal time to visit any location is when the weather conditions are pleasant. Amritsar is a humid and overly crowded city. You can visit Amritsar during October, November, December, January, February, and March.
• Places to visit: Golden Temple, Jallianwalah Bagh, Wagah Border etc.
• Nearest Airport: Amritsar Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Amritsar has its own Junction. I took a train from Chandigarh to Amritsar, you can also book a ticket from Delhi. A special everyday train runs between both the stations.

Varanasi

I remember the first time I visited Varanasi. A fresh college graduate, first time traveling so far on her own. I had so many doubts and so many fears. The stories of scams and narrow lanes full of cow dung didn’t help either. The city most definitely is chaotic, yet charismatic. Being one of the oldest cities of India, Varanasi is also dubbed the spiritual capital of the North.

This city is situated on the banks of Ganges and is known for its Ganga Aarti and celebration of death. The city has more than 80 ghats, each having its own story and importance. Out of these, the ghat which witnesses the ganga Aarti is Dashashwamedh Ghat and the one which celebrates death is Manikarnika. Manikarnika is also known as the burning ghat. The city is famous for its temples. It is better to explore on foot. Don’t forget the quintessential boat tour.

If you enjoy local cuisine, you should try a bhang lassi (which contains cannabis, which is legal in Varanasi). There are numerous eateries along the ghats, but the most well-known among visitors are Pizzeria Vatika and Brown Bakery.

Varanasi has treacherous lanes, and you might easily get lost, so don’t go out late at night by yourself. The ghats are crowded, so keep your valuables secure when you go out. Because this is a spiritual city, you should dress conservatively.

If you are wondering where to stay in Varanasi? My answer would be, the ghat area where most of the activities happen. You can also choose hostels which are a great place to meet other travelers to explore with. 

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: Varanasi has hot and humid climate and during summers the temperature rises up to 48 degrees. the best time to visit would be autumn and winter season between the months of October and March.
• Places to visit: Ghats, Sarnath, Bharat Kala Bhawan, Banaras Hindu University etc.
• Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport also known as Babatpur Airport or Varanasi Airport is the nearest airport which is 18 kilometres away from the city.
• Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction

Landour

Landour is a quaint mountain town situated only a few kilometers away from Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. Landour is one of the best solo trip destinations for a female traveler. The incredible vistas and peaceful atmosphere, is slowly making this offbeat  small town one of the popular spots near Dehradun and Mussoorie.

The greatest way to explore Landour is on foot. A perfect visit would consist of walking, eating, and exploring. Everything is on Upper Chakkar Road, which is 3.5 kilometers long and easily walking. You can begin your walk at Kellogg’s Memorial Church and go to Sister’s Bazaar, the Char Dukaan neighborhood, St. Paul’s Church, and the Lal Tibba viewpoint.

Don’t miss out on Landour Bakehouse’s excellent crepes, Emily’s Restaurant’s sticky toffee pudding, Klick Cafe’s Maggi noodles, Char Dukaan’s vegetable fritters, and Anil Prakash’s store at Sister’s Bazaar’s homemade jams and preserves.

The quickest method to get to Landour is to fly or take a train to Dehradun (60 kilometers distant), then take a bus to Mussoorie. Take a taxi from Dehradun to Landour which is 7 km away.

Look for a welcoming homestay. There are few options for lodging in Landour, but staying in one of these homestays is an excellent choice. You may unwind in quiet dwellings with breathtaking views and charming hosts.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: Autumn and Spring when the temperature remains pleasant.
• Places to visit: St. Paul’s church, Kellogg’s Memorial Church, Lal Tibba viewpoint etc.
• Nearest Airport: The quickest method to get to Landour is to fly to Dehradun (60 kilometers away).
• Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun train station.

Meghalaya

North eastern states of India are still untouched by the touristy chaos. The virgin beauty of Meghalaya is quite appealing. Among all of these states that make up the North Eastern region, Meghgalaya would always be my first choice. It is safe, and is great for solo travel. The ‘Abode of Clouds’ is surrounded by hills, waterfalls, lakes, and the captivating Khasi – Garo culture. This region is also regarded as one of the safest in India for women, owing to the most prevalent matrilineal culture. 

It is easy to reach and offers lots of activities to enjoy. Things to do in Shillong, Meghalaya’s capital, include visiting Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and Buddhist monasteries. Most visitors continue on to Cherrapunjee (2 hours from Shillong). The region, once renowned as the rainiest spot on the planet, has a lot to offer nature lovers and thrill seekers. Trekking to observe the live root bridges, seeing Mawlynnong hamlet on the East Khasi Hills, and exploring one of the world’s longest limestone tunnels are among the activities available. 

The food of Meghalaya is unique and there are lots of cultural influences and traditional ingredients in the food that Meghalayan people dish out. Across various communities and cultures in Meghalaya, rice and pork form the staple diet of the people. Do not forget to try Jadoh (red rice cooked with pork), Nakham Bitchi (popular soup served to guests and consumed before meals) and Kyat (fermented rice beer). It is a must-try party drink. In Meghalaya, no bar or restaurant does not serve Kyat, and no household will let you leave without a glass of Kyat – a real sign of Meghalayan welcome!

Hire a car and driver to get around; it’s more affordable and easier than sorting out sporadic local transportation choices. Single rooms are extremely in short supply in hotels, although double rooms are relatively inexpensive.

Points To Remember

• Best Time To Visit: The best time of year to visit Meghalaya, often known as the Land of Clouds, is between October and June. Temperatures rarely exceed 30°C in most tourist areas in the state. Avoid going in the monsoon season as it rains heavily in the North East.
• Places to visit: Shillong, Cherapunji, Elephant Falls etc.
• Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport is 30km from the central city.
• Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati rainway station is the big railway station which is 105 km from Shillong.

Final Words

Solo tripping around India is not an uncommon sight. People are slowly opening up to this concept and you find more solo female travelers on the go. Take care of the safety, do not try to go off grid if you are a beginner, plan ahead and you shall be good to go. Let me know which one of these destinations you would choose to visit. 

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Last modified: November 21, 2023