Solo travel is a transformative experience, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in new cultures. If you’re based in Delhi, you're in luck because there are numerous fascinating destinations within reach–nationally and internationally.
And what better when you can take a direct flight from Delhi Airport, a hub of convenience for solo travellers for whom journey matters as much as the destination. This guide mentions everything you need to explore a destination inside out.
Here are 7 must-visit places that promise adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
1. Ladakh
Brief Overview
Ladakh, often referred to as the "Land of High Passes," is a stunning region in northern India. Known for its dramatic landscapes, it offers a unique mix of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the serene Pangong Lake to the rugged terrains of Nubra Valley, Ladakh is a paradise for solo travellers seeking both peace and thrill.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Try traditional Ladakhi dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplings), and Skyu (a heavy pasta dish).
- Cafes: Visit the Tibetan Kitchen in Leh for an authentic dining experience and the Bon Appetit restaurant for a mix of Indian and continental cuisines.
Stay Options
- Budget: Guesthouses like Zostel Leh and Moustache Hostel offer affordable accommodation with a chance to meet fellow travellers.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Kidar and The Grand Dragon Ladakh provide comfortable stays with excellent amenities.
- Luxury: The Chamba Camp in Thiksey offers a luxurious glamping experience amidst the stunning landscapes.
Famous Places to Visit
- Pangong Lake: Known for its changing colours.
- Nubra Valley: Famous for its sand dunes and double-humped camels.
- Thiksey Monastery: A beautiful monastery offering panoramic views.
- Magnetic Hill: Experience the optical illusion of your car defying gravity.
Days Required
A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal to explore Ladakh thoroughly.
Budget Needed
Expect to spend between ₹25,000 to ₹50,000, depending on your mode of transport and accommodation preferences.
2. Solang Valley
Brief Overview
Solang Valley, located near Manali, is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Known for its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green landscapes, it offers a range of activities from skiing to paragliding.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy Himachali dishes like Siddu (steamed bread), Chana Madra, and Babru (stuffed bread).
- Cafes: Fat Plate Cafe and Johnson’s Cafe in Manali offer great food with beautiful views.
Stay Options
- Budget: Backpackers Hostel Manali and Solang Valley Resorts offer affordable stays.
- Mid-Range: Solang Valley Resort and The Orchard Greens provide comfort and good service.
- Luxury: Solang Valley Resorts offers premium rooms with stunning valley views.
Famous Places to Visit
- Solang Ropeway: For panoramic views of the valley.
- Atal Tunnel: A marvel of engineering connecting Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley.
- Rohtang Pass: A high mountain pass offering stunning views.
Days Required
A 3 to 5-day trip is sufficient to enjoy the activities and scenery.
Budget Needed
A budget of ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 should cover your expenses.
3. Bir
Brief Overview
Bir, a quaint village in Himachal Pradesh, is famous for paragliding and its vibrant Tibetan community. It's an ideal destination for solo travellers looking for adventure and a serene environment.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Relish Tibetan food like Thenthuk (noodle soup), Momos, and Tsampa (roasted barley flour).
- Cafes: Silver Linings Cafe and Garden Cafe offer delicious food and great ambience.
Stay Options
- Budget: Hostels like Zostel Bir and The Bunker Hostel are perfect for budget travellers.
- Mid-Range: Chokling Guesthouse and Bir High provide comfortable stays.
- Luxury: Colonel's Resort offers a luxurious stay amidst beautiful gardens.
Famous Places to Visit/Things To Do
- Paragliding: Bir is one of the top paragliding destinations in the world.
- Deer Park Institute: A centre for the study of classical Indian wisdom traditions.
- Tibetan Colony: Explore the vibrant Tibetan culture and monasteries.
Days Required
A 2 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore Bir.
Budget Needed
Plan for a budget of ₹8,000 to ₹20,000.
4. Spiti Valley
Brief Overview
Spiti Valley, often called "Little Tibet," is a cold desert mountain valley in Himachal Pradesh. It’s known for its stark landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Try dishes like Chhurpi (dried cheese), Thukpa, and Butter Tea.
- Cafes: Sol Cafe in Kaza and The Himalayan Cafe offer good food and cosy vibes.
Stay Options
- Budget: Homestays in Kaza and Tabo offer affordable and immersive experiences.
- Mid-Range: Hotels like Hotel Sakya Abode and Hotel Deyzor provide comfortable accommodations.
- Luxury: Not many luxury options, but Banjara Camps in Kaza offer premium tents.
Famous Places to Visit
- Key Monastery: A stunning monastery located on a hilltop.
- Chandratal Lake: Known as the "Moon Lake."
- Dhankar Monastery: Offers breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley.
Days Required
A 7 to 10-day trip is recommended.
Budget Needed
Expect to spend between ₹20,000 to ₹40,000.
5. Kerala
Brief Overview
Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a tropical paradise with lush greenery, backwaters, and beautiful beaches. It’s an ideal destination for solo travellers seeking tranquillity and cultural immersion.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy dishes like Kerala Sadya, Appam with Stew, and Puttu with Kadala Curry.
- Cafes: Kashi Art Cafe in Kochi and Indian Coffee House in Trivandrum are must-visits.
Stay Options
- Budget: Hostels like Zostel Kochi and Vedanta Wake Up offer affordable stays.
- Mid-Range: Hotels like Abad Plaza and The Raviz Calicut provide comfortable stays.
- Luxury: Resorts like Taj Bekal and Kumarakom Lake Resort offer a luxurious experience.
Famous Places to Visit
- Backwaters of Alleppey: Enjoy a houseboat stay.
- Munnar: Known for its tea gardens.
- Fort Kochi: Rich in history and culture.
Days Required
A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal to explore Kerala.
Budget Needed
Plan for a budget of ₹20,000 to ₹50,000.
6. Hampi
Brief Overview
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, is a historical treasure trove with ruins of ancient temples, palaces, and market streets. It’s a perfect destination for history buffs and adventure seekers.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy South Indian dishes like Bisi Bele Bath, Dosa, and Idli.
- Cafes: Mango Tree and Laughing Buddha Cafe offer delicious food with great views.
Stay Options
- Budget: Shanti Guest House and Rocky Guest House offer affordable stays.
- Mid-Range: Heritage Resort Hampi provides comfortable accommodations.
- Luxury: Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace offers a luxurious experience.
Famous Places to Visit
- Virupaksha Temple: A stunning temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Vijaya Vittala Temple: Known for its iconic stone chariot.
- Hampi Bazaar: A lively market area with shops and cafes.
Days Required
A 3 to 5-day trip is sufficient.
Budget Needed
A budget of ₹10,000 to ₹35,000 should cover your expenses.
7. Goa
Brief Overview
Goa, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and Portuguese heritage, is a favourite destination for solo travellers. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Food Recommendations
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy Goan dishes like Fish Curry Rice, Bebinca (a Goan dessert), and Vindaloo.
- Cafes: Visit Baba Au Rhum and Suzie’s for a delightful dining experience.
Stay Options
- Budget: Hostels like The Funky Monkey and Pappi Chulo offer affordable stays.
- Mid-Range: Hotels like The Park Calangute and Casa Anjuna provide comfortable accommodations.
- Luxury: Taj Exotica and Alila Diwa offer luxurious stays.
Famous Places to Visit
- Baga Beach: Known for its lively atmosphere.
- Old Goa: Famous for its historic churches and cathedrals.
- Dudhsagar Falls: A spectacular four-tiered waterfall.
Days Required
A 4 to 7-day trip is ideal.
Budget Needed
Plan for a budget of ₹15,000 to ₹40,000.
Conclusion to a Happy Journey
These ten destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from the rugged mountains of Ladakh to the serene backwaters of Kerala. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, each place promises a unique and enriching journey. Solo travel allows for self-discovery and personal growth, and these locations provide the perfect backdrop for such experiences. As you plan your next solo adventure from Delhi, let these destinations inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and create unforgettable memories. Embrace the freedom of solo travel and let the beauty of diverse landscapes captivate your soul. Happy travelling!
