Top Ten Destinations for Single Backpack Travelers

Varkala, Kerala: Varkala is a town in the south Indian state of Kerala. It’s on the Arabian Sea and known for Varkala Beach, backed by palm-covered red cliffs. Just south, Papanasam Beach is believed to have holy waters. On a nearby hill, the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Vishnu. Farther inland, the Sivagiri Mutt monument memorializes the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, who is buried here.
Varkala is a laid-back beach town, ideal for soul-searchers who want to be close to nature, sun, sea, sand and serenity. The best part is it is not touristy compared to other beach towns in India, like Goa. You can relax and sunbathe on the Varkala beach (also known as Papnasam beach), soak in the beautiful sunset vistas, indulge in water sports on the beach, enjoy boating in the picturesque Kappil Lake, marvel at the historical Anjengo Fort, and visit one of the many religious centres and temples. Make sure you see the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea – it’s a sight to behold. You can relax and sunbathe on the Varkala beach (also known as Papnasam beach), soak in the beautiful sunset vistas, indulge in water sports on the beach, enjoy boating in the picturesque Kappil Lake, marvel at the historical Anjengo Fort, and visit one of the many religious centres and temples. Make sure you see the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea – it’s a sight to behold.

Hampi, Karnataka: Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. On the south bank of the River Tungabhadra is the 7th-century Hindu Virupaksha Temple, near the revived Hampi Bazaar. A carved stone chariot stands in front of the huge Vittala Temple site.
Situated in North Karnataka, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with plenty of draws for solo travellers. Architecture and history fans flock here to explore the remnants of the ancient edifices that dates back to the Vijaynagara Empire and marvel at the intricate carvings, intriguing rock formations and stone boulders; while nature and spiritual lovers adore the scenic landscape and serene atmosphere.

Kasol, Himachal Pradesh: Kasol is a hamlet in the district Kullu of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in Parvati Valley, on the banks of the Parvati River, on the way between Bhuntar and Manikaran. For quiet contemplation and to be at one with nature, Kasol is the perfect destination. The breathtakingly beautiful scenery around every bend will nourish your eyes and soul, while a plethora of treks and treads around (like, Kheerganga, Sar Pass, Pin Parbati Pass and Yanker Pass) will satiate the thrill-seeker in you. Also, this tiny hamlet is full of backpackers and international tourists, who are warm and welcoming, so you’re sure to make a few friends.

Gangtok, Sikkim: Nestled in the Sikkim Himalayan region, Gangtok is packed with some spectacular landscapes that anyone who loves immersing in nature shouldn’t pass up. Also, being home to different ethnic groups, this place offers a refreshing and unique cultural experience. Adventure lovers can go for cable rides and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the city, or go trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, and river rafting on River Teesta. For an unforgettable experience of the city, do take a yak safari along its rugged terrain and soak in the beauty of the picturesque locations along the way. If you’re a history and architecture lover, take a tour of the monasteries – Rumtek monastery, Tsuk La Khang monastery and Pemayangtse monastery, all exude a spiritual vibe and boast some of the world’s finest architecture.

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh: Spiti Valley is a cold desert mountain valley located high in the Himalayas in the north-eastern part of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The name “Spiti” means “The middle land”, i.e. the land between Tibet and India.
Ladakh’s lesser-visited cousin, Spiti Valley is a treasure trove of captivating landscapes and unblemished wilderness. For the uninitiated, Spiti’s snow-clad mountains, lush forests, scenic lakes and valleys, picturesque hamlets and vibrant Buddhist monasteries are among the most stunning in India. You can go trekking, camping, mountain biking, or simply relax and soak up its beauty in peace.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Rishikesh is a city in India’s northern state of Uttarakhand, in the Himalayan foothills beside the Ganges River. The river is considered holy, and the city is renowned as a center for studying yoga and meditation. Temples and ashrams.
For years, the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, the glistening Ganges, the spiritual vibe and the adrenaline-pumping adventures of Rishikesh have attracted backpackers and solo travellers. The list of solo activities you can do in Rishikesh is countless: river rafting, bungee jumping, camping, mountain biking, flying fox, cliff jumping, trekking, body surfing, rappelling, kayaking, paragliding… and if you’re looking to self-reflect and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul, go for Ayurvedic massages, yoga and meditation retreats at one of the many ashrams and centres in Rishikesh. While you’re here, do not miss the world-famous Ganga Aarti and experience the vibrant Hindu culture.

Rajasthan: Rajasthan, popularly known as the ‘Land of Kings’ is steeped in history, art, culture and natural beauty. The state’s rich history includes Rajputs, Mughals and Marathas rule with an abundance of temples, forts, palaces and lakes to explore. The splendour of the place is echoed in its rich culture and traditions, featuring lively fairs and festivals, dance, folk music and exquisite art and handicrafts. The Rajasthanis are known for their warm hospitality, and a solo traveller in Rajasthan will never feel alone. Plus, the state is safe, and food and accommodation are inexpensive as can be.

Munnar, Kerala: The picturesque hill station of Munnar in Kerala is simply one of the best places for a backpacking trip, especially because it is a year-round destination. The serene environs and pleasant climate of this hill town will make your journey ever so enjoyable and exciting. Situated at the confluence of rivers, Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea estates as well as rich flora and fauna. Besides witnessing its tea estates, you can explore its other attractions on your trip, and some of them are Attukal Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam and Anamudi Peak.

Shillong, Meghalaya: The hill station of Shillong in Meghalaya is another fantastic backpacking destination in India, where you can escape to unwind and connect with nature. Fondly called as the ‘Scotland of the East’, this scenic city lies at an average elevation of more than 1500 m above sea level and offers some breathtaking views of lush valleys from Shillong Peak as well as Elephant, Crinoline and Sweet Falls. In addition to visiting these falls and admiring their beauty, you can explore the Lady Hydari Park, Air Force Museum, Botanical Museum, State Museum, Umiam Lake and Wards Lake in Shillong. While you are here, you can also plan a trip to the beautiful hill town of Cherrapunjee, which lies only about 50 km away.

Dzukou Valley: The Dzukou Valley, which lies on the border of Manipur and Nagaland, is another fantastic backpacking destination, where you are guaranteed to find peace and tranquillity beside unspoilt natural beauty. This valley is situated at an altitude of more than 2438 m above sea level behind the splendid Japfu Peak, with the beautiful rivers Dzukou and Japfu flowing through it. The verdant Dzukou Valley is aptly known as the ‘Valley of Flowers of the Northeast’ as its landscape features scenic plains abundant with a variety of colourful flowers, especially lilies and rhododendrons. The experience of trekking through this picturesque valley, crossing several streams of crystal clear water and listening to the chirping of birds will certainly have a calming effect on your senses. The best time to come to Dzukou is from June to September, but to do so, you would require an Inner Liner Permit from the concerned authorities.