Travelling solo can be a nerve-wracking idea, especially in a country as vast, unpredictable, and wonderfully chaotic as India. But here's the thing: India is also one of the most rewarding places to travel alone, offering everything from warm hospitality and budget-friendly options to soul-satisfying food and diverse experiences. And while Goa and Rishikesh often steal the solo-travel spotlight, there are plenty of other places that are just as easygoing, safe, and packed with character. Here are five unexpected but seriously great solo-travel friendly destinations in India that deserve a spot on your radar.
Also Read: 7 Smart Tips To Perfectly Plan Your First Solo Trip
Here Are 5 Unexpected Solo-Travel Friendly Destinations In India:
1. Puducherry, Tamil Nadu
Photo: iStock
Why Visit: French vibes, clean beaches, and laid-back cafes.
Puducherry offers a refreshingly calm alternative to the chaos of big Indian cities. The French Quarter is a pastel dream — think mustard-yellow buildings, leafy boulevards, and charming bakeries that wouldn't look out of place in the south of France. Whether you're renting a cycle to cruise along the Promenade or sipping filter coffee at a quiet cafe, Puducherry is ideal for solo travellers who want a slower pace. Bonus: Locals are friendly, English is widely spoken, and the town is small enough to navigate without hassle.
Pro Tip: Book a stay at one of the heritage guesthouses in White Town for the full Puducherry experience.
2. Gokarna, Karnataka
Photo: iStock
Why Visit: Quiet beaches, yoga retreats, and less party, more peace.
Gokarna is what Goa was in the '90s — sleepy, spiritual, and a little scruffy in the best way. It's a coastal town that manages to blend backpacker vibes with temple-town energy. For solo travellers, it offers a low-key beach scene, hostels with a social atmosphere, and just enough cafes to keep things interesting. You can beach-hop between Om Beach, Half Moon, and Paradise Beach — all walkable via cliff trails.
Pro Tip: Try a drop-in yoga class at one of the many ashrams or beachfront centres.
3. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Unsplash
Why Visit: Rugged beauty, kind locals, and community homestays.
If you're craving solitude with a side of stunning landscapes, Spiti Valley delivers. Nestled high up in the Himalayas, this desert mountain valley is perfect for solo adventurers who are happy with basic amenities and jaw-dropping views. What makes Spiti solo-friendly is its strong network of homestays. You'll often find yourself sharing meals with your host family, making it easy to feel safe and looked after. The roads are wild, the monasteries ancient, and the skies crystal clear — just don't expect WiFi everywhere.
Pro Tip: July to September is the best time to go, when roads are more accessible and weather is friendlier.
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Photo: iStock
Why Visit: Fairy-tale lakes, rooftop cafes, and friendly locals.
Udaipur is Rajasthan without the overwhelm. The pace is mellow, the sunsets over Lake Pichola are unreal, and the old city is made for wandering. You can spend hours getting lost in the narrow lanes filled with tiny art shops and rooftop restaurants. Locals are used to tourists and often go out of their way to help. It's also very photogenic — solo travel doesn't mean no Instagram posts, right?
Pro Tip: Book a seat at one of the rooftop restaurants near the City Palace for the ultimate sunset dinner.
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5. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Why Visit: Music, meadows, and minimal crowds.
Tucked away in the Northeast, Ziro is a lush green plateau that often flies under the radar — unless it's September, when the iconic Ziro Music Festival turns this sleepy town into a hub for indie music lovers. But even outside festival season, Ziro is solo travel gold. The Apatani tribe who live here are known for their warm hospitality and eco-friendly way of life. You can walk through paddy fields, hike to nearby villages, or just sit and take in the misty mountain views.
Pro Tip: Inner Line Permits (ILPs) are required for Arunachal Pradesh, so sort yours online in advance.
