Ah, the freedom of solo travel! You get to design your own itinerary, explore new cultures, places and cuisines on your own terms, and who knows, you might even find something new about yourself along the way. Now, solo travel may not be for everyone. Still, if you’ve admired the travelogues of Laila (Katrina Kaif) in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Rani (Kangana Ranaut) in Queen, or even Geet (Kareena Kapoor) in Jab We Met, then you should definitely journey down that road.
Unarguably solo travel for women and solo travel for men is very different. And a large part of that has got to do with safety. So, if you’re looking to dip your toe in the adventure that is solo travel, here are seven of the safest Indian cities you should consider.
1. Mumbai
The Maximum City warmly embraces everyone with open arms – everyone who wants to explore or settle down. It pulls you in with its endless charm and captivates you with its warm spirit. Nonetheless, taking a walk through the labyrinths of the old city, feeling the wind on your face when you pass by the sea or exploring the swanky restaurants of South Bombay—everything is an experience in itself. The city that never sleeps tops the list when it comes to solo travelling safely.
How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport
By Train: Take a train to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Shillong
Take a glimpse of mesmerising waterfalls like Eagle Waterfall, Sweet Falls, Elephant Falls, and Bishop and Beadon Falls. Another must-visit is the Cathedral Catholic Church for its magnificent gothic architecture. Witness the grandeur of the Shillong peak and visit the golf course, the largest and only natural golf course in Asia. Not just that, but the innumerable parks and museums are also worth a visit while you are at this quaint hill station.
How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight to Shillong Airport
By Train: Take a train to Guwahati, Assam and then by road
Best Time To Visit: September to May
3. Udaipur
The city of lakes is just one of many places worth visiting in Rajasthan. The people are warm, the food is lip-smacking, and the culture and architecture are truly royal. Boat rides, camel rides, and dune rides are all great options, but nothing beats exploring Udaipur than on foot. Also, don’t miss out on the fun and dynamism of the Mewar Light and Sound Show.
How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight to Maharana Pratap Airport
By Train: Take a train to Jaipur and then by road
Best Time To Visit: October to February
4. Munnar
The endless landscapes of the tea gardens are straight out of a travel postcard, if not a dream. While at Munnar, take a tour around the tea museum to know how the leaves are processed and packaged. Spend some leisure hours amidst nature at Pothamedu View Point. Visit Nilgiri tahr, an endangered wild goat, at the reserved area that used to be the hunting ground for the British. Witness the grandeur of the huge reservoir at Mattupetty Dam and spend some leisure hours at Nyayamakad, Attukal Waterfalls, and Devikulam.
How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight to Cochin International Airport
By Train: Take a train to Aluva or Ernakulam and then by road
Best Time To Visit: September to March
5. Pondicherry
If you love some old-world mystique and charm, then you will love Pondicherry. The city by the sea celebrates its French roots as evident through the old colonial houses and quaint colourful European villas. The city’s Jewish heritage also shines through the stone-cobbled streets. Spend a relaxing day at the beach reading, swimming, taking a walk, or simply doing nothing while the monsoon showers you with all its calm and serenity.
How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight to Chennai International Airport and then by road
By Train: Take a train to Villupuram and then by road
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. McLeodganj
Apart from trekking and camping, appreciate the pristine beauty of Bhagsu Falls, enjoy the beauty of the setting sun from Sunset Point, and breathe the calm of the Namgyal Monastery. Other places to visit include Dal Lake, Kareri Lake, Kangra Fort, and Tibet Museum.
How To Reach:
By Air: Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala and then by road
By Train: Pathankot Railway Station and then by road
Best Time To Visit: September to June
7. Gokarna
Often considered Goa’s twin, Gokarna has been rising in popularity in recent times. Especially among those who have been to Goa innumerable too often and are looking for an alternative. Perched in a small town in north Karnataka, its virgin beaches never fail to appeal to its tourists, irrespective of whether you’re a “beach person” or a “mountain person”. Apart from the calm and quietude of the beaches, there is a host of adventure sports like a banana boat ride and trekking routes for the adrenaline junkies. At Gokarna, Kudle Beach, Half Moon Beach, Mirjan Fort, and Mahabaleshwar Temple are other must-visit tourist spots.
How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight to Dabolim Airport, Goa and then by road
By Train: Take a train to Gokarna Road Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: October to March
