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A solo trip should be all about exploring, and fuelling that curiosity within. The known tourist trails are alright, but what you need to nourish your soul is by discovering the lesser-known destinations. The offbeat places in India offer a great experience, away from the hustle culture and the busy city life. To keep you inspired here’s a list of 8 unexplored destinations in India, which are best suited for solo travelling and also budget-friendly.
Eight amazing destinations for solo travel to explore more of in India
1. Khimsar, Rajasthan
Located at the edge of the Thar Desert, Khimsar is a small desert village in central Rajasthan. The ideal time to visit this place is during the winter, with a mood for relaxation. Tourists generally visit Khimsar during the Nagaur Festival and witness cattle trade, while also taking part in activities such as camel racing and tug of war. The Khimsar Fort and the Sand Dune villages are the main attractions here.
How to reach: Khimsar is easily accessible from Jodhpur, which happens to be at a distance of 80km and the closest airport and railway station.
2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
The majestically beautiful town of Tawang is located in Arunachal Pradesh, and it is also the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. Pronounced as ‘Dawang’, the place has the most splendid views. It is an extremely sacred place for the Buddhists and is well known for its monasteries. Also known for its unique cuisine, travellers who are also foodies are guaranteed to have a unique experience here. The Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is among the recommended places to visit while in Tawang.
How to reach: The nearest airport and railway station happens to be in Tezpur, Assam, from where you can take a cab or bus to reach Tawang.
3. Majuli, Assam
Located on the Brahmaputra River in Northeast Assam, Majuli is the largest river island in the world. It is a lush green, pollution-free freshwater island and a must-visit when in Assam. Majuli is rich in culture, with mostly tribal inhabitants, with unparalleled beauty and serenity that only adds to the charm of the place. The island is accessible through ferries, which are available from Jorhat.
How to reach: Majuli is only accessible via ferry from Jorhat in Assam. You can either take a flight to Guwahati or reach Jorhat via train to go to Majuli.
4. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar is a hill station in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, away from the other hip towns of the state. It is an unexplored saucer-shaped plateau, surrounded by dense deodar and pine forests. It is also regarded as the 'Mini Switzerland of India', packed with lakes, meadows and hills. Tourists can take part in activities such as paragliding, zorbing and horse riding. One has to take long walks to completely experience the scenic beauty of the place. The dreamy town of Khajjiar can be visited throughout the year, whenever one is in need of a little break and a breath of nature.
How to reach: Via road, you can always take a taxi from Dalhousie or Chamba to reach Khajjiar. Pathankot is the closest railway station, and Gaggal is the closest airport. From both of these places, you can take taxis or buses to Khajjiar.
5. Phungtal Gompa, Ladakh
Phungtal Gompa is a Buddhist monastery located in the remote valley of Lungnak, in a mountain cave in Zanskar, Ladakh. It is probably the most unexplored, old and distant monastery in Asia, and needs a trek of a day or two to reach. The splendid view of the Tsarap River is a treat to the eyes while climbing the mountains. The monastery is entirely built of mud and wood and is one of the most unique places to visit for a solo traveller.
How to reach: You can fly into Srinagar or Leh, and reach Kargil. From there, you need to drive to Padum which is the last motorable spot to reach Phungtal Gompa. From Padum, you'll have to trek to the monastery.
6. Sandakphu, Darjeeling
Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal. Situated in the Singalila Ridge on the border between India and Nepal, the term ‘Sandakphu’ means the height of the poison plants. Best suited for solo travelling, while on the Sandakphu trek, one is expected to witness the magnificent sight of the world’s tallest peaks. Amidst the Everest cluster, the Sleeping Buddha and all the natural wonders, the trek is almost like a spiritual journey and is sure to offer you a magical experience.
How to reach: Sandakphu is easily accessible via Darjeeling, from which you can head to the base camp for the trek.
7. Chembra Lake, Western Ghats
Situated on the highest peak of the Wayanad range of the Western Ghats, Chembra Lake is the most attractive sight of the region. It is the only heart-shaped natural lake in India! It is a dreamlike getaway amidst the lush green valleys, tea plantations and hills. Another fun fact about Chembra Lake is that it is believed to never have desiccated.
How to reach: About 35 km from Wayanad, Chembra Lake can be reached via taxis. The closest airport is Karipur International Airport, and the closest railway station is Kozhikode.
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8. Kumbalangi, Kochi
Kumbalangi is a quiet, island village on the outskirts of Kochi, in Kerala. Surrounded by backwaters, the place has a natural beauty worth savouring. It is home to fishermen, farmers, labourers and toddy tappers, and the boatmen and fisher folk are always ready to showcase their various fishing techniques to the tourists. You can expect to have a quaint time here, with a glimpse of the village life.
How to reach: A stone's throw away from Kochi, Kumbalangi can be reached via bus or taxi from the city. Cochin Airport is the nearest airport and Ernakulum the nearest railway station.
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