Solo travel in India isn’t just a trend—it’s a transformational journey. With vibrant cultures, spiritual corners, thrilling landscapes, and budget-friendly amenities, India is a dream come true for solo travelers.
Here’s your complete travel guide to 25 Budget-Friendly Solo Travel Destinations in India, with all the insights you need.
Table of Contents
1. 🧘♂️ Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
– The Yoga Capital of the World
About the Place: Nestled along the Ganges and surrounded by hills, Rishikesh is the spiritual heart of India. It attracts solo travelers for yoga, meditation, adventure, and inner peace.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1200/day
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- Stay Options: Shiv Shakti Hostel, Live Free Hostel
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Attend Ganga Aarti, explore Laxman Jhula
- Day 2: River rafting and café hopping
- Day 3: Neer Waterfall hike & yoga session
- Travel Tips: Rishikesh is dry (no alcohol). Join a drop-in yoga class for ₹300–₹500.
2. 🌄 Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
– The Hippie’s Valley
About the Place: A peaceful Himalayan hamlet along the Parvati River, famous for its Israeli cafes, serene hikes, and bohemian vibe—perfect for nature-loving solo backpackers.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1500/day
- Best Time: March to June, Sept to Nov
- Stay: The Hosteller, Parvati Kuteer
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Café crawl & riverside walk
- Day 2: Trek to Kheerganga (overnight)
- Day 3: Visit Tosh or Manikaran
- Travel Tips: Carry cash—ATMs are rare. Local buses are cheap and scenic.
3. 🏖️ Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
– A French Escape on Indian Shores
About the Place: A beautiful mix of Indian and French architecture, clean beaches, and spiritual vibes—Pondicherry is ideal for a solo beach retreat or a quiet creative getaway.
- Budget: ₹1200–₹1800/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Micasa Hostel, Auroville Guesthouses
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Walk through White Town, Paradise Beach
- Day 2: Explore Auroville & Matrimandir
- Day 3: Surf at Serenity Beach
- Travel Tips: Rent a scooter or bicycle for easy local exploration.
4. 🪨 Hampi, Karnataka
– The Ruins of a Lost Kingdom
About the Place: A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with surreal boulder-strewn landscapes and majestic temples, Hampi is a magnet for history lovers and offbeat solo travelers.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1300/day
- Best Time: October to February
- Stay: Gopi Guest House, The Goan Corner
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore temple ruins & sunset at Hemakuta Hill
- Day 2: Visit Hippie Island & coracle boat ride
- Day 3: Virupaksha Temple and local markets
- Travel Tips: Carry power banks—electricity can be unstable.
5. ☮️ McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
– The Mini Tibet of India
About the Place: The spiritual residence of the Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj is peaceful, cool, and culturally rich—perfect for solo travelers seeking healing, trekking, and culture.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1500/day
- Best Time: March to June, Sept to Nov
- Stay: Pink House, Moustache McLeod
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Visit Dalai Lama Temple and markets
- Day 2: Trek to Triund
- Day 3: Bhagsunath Temple & Waterfall
- Travel Tips: Join meditation classes at Tushita for calm and community.
6. 🌅 Udaipur, Rajasthan
– Venice of the East
About the Place: With its stunning lakes, romantic palaces, and colorful bazaars, Udaipur is a safe and majestic place for solo travelers looking for a taste of royal India.
- Budget: ₹1200–₹1800/day
- Best Time: September to March
- Stay: Banjara Hostel, Moustache Udaipur
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: City Palace and sunset boat ride
- Day 2: Sajjangarh Fort & Bagore ki Haveli
- Day 3: Shilpgram and Lake Fatehsagar
- Travel Tips: Take a local tonga ride or walk around the old city.
7. 🚂 Darjeeling, West Bengal
– The Tea Capital of India
About the Place: Famous for its scenic toy train, tea gardens, and colonial charm, Darjeeling is a peaceful solo travel spot in Eastern India.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1600/day
- Best Time: April to June, October to December
- Stay: Hideout Backpackers, Little Singamari
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Toy Train and Darjeeling Mall
- Day 2: Sunrise at Tiger Hill, tea factory visit
- Day 3: Peace Pagoda and monastery tour
- Travel Tips: Carry warm layers—even summers are chilly.
8. 🐪 Pushkar, Rajasthan
– Spiritual Desert Town
About the Place: Famous for its holy lake and camel fair, Pushkar blends spirituality, quirky cafes, and backpacker energy, all on a tight budget.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1200/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Zostel Pushkar, Moustache Pushkar
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake
- Day 2: Camel Safari and desert sunset
- Day 3: Café hopping and shopping
- Travel Tips: Avoid meat & alcohol in the holy town center.
9. 🔥 Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
– India’s Oldest Living City
About the Place: Varanasi is a deep dive into India’s spiritual and cultural core. From sunrise boat rides to cremation ghats, this city leaves you transformed.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1400/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Zostel Varanasi, Ganpati Guest House
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ganga Aarti
- Day 2: Boat ride, Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Day 3: Sarnath and silk shopping
- Travel Tips: Stay near Assi Ghat for peaceful surroundings.
10. ⛩️ Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
– A Tibetan Spiritual Escape
About the Place: With its peaceful monasteries, green hills, and Buddhist culture, Dharamshala is perfect for solo travelers looking for calm and cultural immersion.
- Budget: ₹900–₹1400/day
- Best Time: March to June, September to November
- Stay: Backpacker’s Inn, The Bunker Hostel
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Visit Namgyal Monastery & Tibetan Museum
- Day 2: Day hike to Dharamkot & Bhagsunag Waterfall
- Day 3: Explore Norbulingka Institute
- Travel Tips: Try the Tibetan thukpa and momos at local eateries.
11. 🏖️ Gokarna, Karnataka
– The Quieter Goa
About the Place: Gokarna offers a peaceful coastal retreat with laid-back beaches, yoga centers, and cliff hikes—perfect for solo beach lovers.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1500/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Zostel Gokarna, HosteLife
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Relax at Kudle & Om Beach
- Day 2: Beach trekking to Paradise & Half Moon Beach
- Day 3: Visit Mahabaleshwar Temple and local cafés
- Travel Tips: Avoid peak weekends for a quieter experience.
12. 🛕 Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
– For Spiritual Solitude
About the Place: Home to the sacred Arunachala Hill and Ramana Maharshi Ashram, this town is a meditative retreat for solo seekers.
- Budget: ₹700–₹1200/day
- Best Time: November to February
- Stay: Sree Shai International, Ramanashram Guesthouses
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Girivalam walk around Arunachala
- Day 2: Ashram meditation sessions
- Day 3: Explore local temples and food stalls
- Travel Tips: Dress modestly; local customs are respected here.
13. 🏜️ Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
– The Golden Desert City
About the Place: Sand dunes, golden forts, and camel rides—Jaisalmer is perfect for solo wanderers exploring the Thar Desert.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1600/day
- Best Time: November to February
- Stay: Wanderlust Hostel, Zostel Jaisalmer
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Jaisalmer Fort & local bazaars
- Day 2: Camel Safari & overnight in the desert
- Day 3: Patwon ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake
- Travel Tips: Book desert camps in advance online for deals.
14. 🌊 Alleppey, Kerala
– Backwaters & Houseboats
About the Place: Known for serene backwaters and green landscapes, Alleppey is Kerala’s gem for peaceful solo getaways.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1500/day
- Best Time: November to February
- Stay: Brown House, Dream Nest
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Houseboat ride
- Day 2: Explore local villages by canoe
- Day 3: Beach walk and seafood tasting
- Travel Tips: Travel via KSRTC buses—cheap and efficient.
15. ⛺ Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
– Offbeat Himalayan Adventure
About the Place: Remote and raw, Spiti offers a dramatic desert landscape, high-altitude monasteries, and a unique Tibetan culture.
- Budget: ₹1200–₹1800/day
- Best Time: June to September (summer only)
- Stay: Solo Yolo Hostel, Zostel Spiti
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Key Monastery & Kaza
- Day 2: Visit Langza and Hikkim (world’s highest post office)
- Day 3: Pin Valley trek or relax
- Travel Tips: Internet is patchy—carry offline maps and cash.
16. 🎨 Jaipur, Rajasthan
– The Pink City
About the Place: A solo trip to Jaipur means forts, palaces, bazaars, and heritage walks.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1500/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Moustache Jaipur, The Hosteller
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Amber Fort, Jal Mahal
- Day 2: Hawa Mahal, City Palace
- Day 3: Local bazaars and food trail
- Travel Tips: Use Uber Auto or e-rickshaws for easy travel.
17. 🏔️ Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
– North East’s Hidden Jewel
About the Place: Tawang is remote, mystical, and surrounded by snow-clad peaks. A serene retreat for solo adventurers.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1600/day
- Best Time: March to May, September to November
- Stay: Hotel Tawang View, Government lodges
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Tawang Monastery
- Day 2: Sela Pass, Jaswant Garh
- Day 3: Local village visits and waterfalls
- Travel Tips: Requires Inner Line Permit (ILP).
18. 🌿 Coorg, Karnataka
– The Scotland of India
About the Place: Verdant hills, coffee plantations, and waterfalls—Coorg is a relaxing green escape.
- Budget: ₹900–₹1400/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Zostel Coorg, Plantation Stays
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat
- Day 2: Coffee estate tour
- Day 3: Madikeri Fort, Talacauvery
- Travel Tips: Rent a scooter for local travel.
19. 🏛️ Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
– Temples & Art
About the Place: Famous for its erotic temple carvings and intricate art, Khajuraho is a cultural treasure off the beaten path.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1200/day
- Best Time: November to February
- Stay: Zostel Khajuraho, Hotel Isabel Palace
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Western Group of Temples
- Day 2: Light & Sound Show, Panna National Park
- Day 3: Cultural Museum and local arts
- Travel Tips: Rent a bicycle for cheap temple hopping.
20. 🌅 Varkala, Kerala
– Cliff Beaches and Yoga Vibes
About the Place: A peaceful alternative to Goa, Varkala offers yoga, surf, and cliffside cafés.
- Budget: ₹1000–₹1500/day
- Best Time: November to March
- Stay: Lost Hostel, Cliff Stories
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Varkala Beach & cliff walk
- Day 2: Yoga session and Ayurvedic spa
- Day 3: Visit Janardanaswamy Temple
- Travel Tips: Don’t miss the sunset at the North Cliff.
21. 🏯 Mount Abu, Rajasthan
– The Only Hill Station in Rajasthan
About the Place: A cool escape from the desert heat, Mount Abu offers temples, lakes, and lush green hills—a unique solo trip spot in otherwise arid Rajasthan.
- Budget: ₹900–₹1300/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Hotel Shiv Villa, Backpacker Panda
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Nakki Lake & Sunset Point
- Day 2: Dilwara Temples & Peace Park
- Day 3: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Travel Tips: Weekdays are less crowded and more budget-friendly.
22. 🐘 Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
– Hidden Historical Gem
About the Place: A quaint town with palaces, temples, and the scenic Betwa River. Orchha is ideal for a relaxed, history-focused solo trip.
- Budget: ₹700–₹1100/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Zostel Orchha, Hotel Sunset
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Jahangir Mahal, Orchha Fort
- Day 2: Chaturbhuj Temple & light show
- Day 3: River walk and Laxminarayan Temple
- Travel Tips: Rent a cycle or walk—distances are short.
23. 🛶 Majuli, Assam
– World’s Largest River Island
About the Place: A cultural and ecological wonder in the Brahmaputra, Majuli is calm, scenic, and full of monastic and tribal traditions.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1200/day
- Best Time: November to March
- Stay: La Maison de Ananda, homestays
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Ferry from Jorhat, explore satras (monasteries)
- Day 2: Cycle through tribal villages
- Day 3: Try local Mishing cuisine, pottery
- Travel Tips: Carry mosquito repellent and offline maps.
24. 🧘 Auroville, Tamil Nadu
– Utopian Spiritual Retreat
About the Place: Not far from Pondicherry, Auroville is an international spiritual community that offers meditation, volunteering, and organic living—ideal for slow solo travel.
- Budget: ₹800–₹1200/day
- Best Time: October to March
- Stay: Youth Camp Guesthouse, Gratitude Farm Stay
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore Auroville and Matrimandir
- Day 2: Attend community workshops
- Day 3: Café and bookstore exploration
- Travel Tips: Book Matrimandir viewing in advance.
25. 🏞️ Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
– Northeast’s Music & Nature Capital
About the Place: Rolling hills, pine trees, tribal culture, and the famous Ziro Music Festival make this one of India’s most scenic hidden gems.
- Budget: ₹1200–₹1800/day
- Best Time: March to October (Festival in Sept)
- Stay: Dolo Mando Camps, Bamboo Cottages
- 3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Walk through Apatani villages
- Day 2: Attend music or local events
- Day 3: Dolo Mando trek and local market
- Travel Tips: Apply for an Inner Line Permit (ILP) online.
Final Thoughts
Solo travel in India doesn’t have to be expensive. These 25 budget-friendly destinations offer rich experiences, cultural depth, and natural beauty—all under ₹800–₹1800/day. Whether you want to chill on a beach, explore ancient ruins, or trek in the Himalayas, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
✨ “Travel far enough, you meet yourself.” – David Mitchell
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