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Krishna
  • January 1, 2025 |
  • 13 min read

Solo travelling is probably one of the big experiences where you discover a new version of yourself, learn about fascinating things and explore new cultures. It is also a medium to push yourself out of your comfort zone and a way to self-discovery. With a solo trip to countries like India, you get to build up your confidence, learn distinct languages and tones make new friends and learn new cultures. 

It is also true that planning a solo trip raises numerous questions in mind, like- whether would it be safe, how the experience would be, whether I would enjoy my trip to the fullest and many more. As per the data and statistics, over 70 per cent of people worldwide want to travel solo. However, you must have a planned route in place and a degree of self-confidence for a solo trip to India. Follow our travel guide to gain knowledge, skills and tricks that will help you have a seamless journey. 

1. Research

A little research on the destination and about your journey is required when you travel to India alone. For example, if you are willing to travel to Delhi or other northern Indian places like Jaipur or Agra, gather some insights about the place, its attractions, shopping decisions, activities, and unsafe locations. Having a prior idea about the famous dining spot and entry fees of the famous zoo or other prominent destination in the area you will travel to,  helps you avoid last-minute hassle and your journey will be more profound and memorable. 

2. Make sure your solo trip schedule and checklist are prepared in advance.

Carefully planning a trip to countries like India is required because of the country’s diverse atmosphere, different cultural values and sights. Bag-pack your clothes seeing the country’s climate in the region you will visit. Make sure you are prepared for the locations and experiences you will have. Book your accommodation in advance and plan your preferred method of transportation. For a better travel experience, solo travellers can also seek the help of a tour operator to avoid any such burden in their venture. 

It is important to keep in mind that organising travel alone can be far more liberating than organising group travel. The reason for this is that you get to decide for yourself what to do and how.

3. Pack Light and do not forget to carry essentials

It is an important tool and a smart way to embark on an easy and unburdening solo trip. you could encounter various difficulties and inconveniences due to tight packing.   

It might result in paying extra at the airport during check-ins and taking care of the materials like your clothes or any huge items throughout your trip. It is therefore important to pack your bags based on what you can carry easily.

Also, do not forget to carry the essentials like your regularly prescribed medicines, first aid, Power Bank, SIM card, and Charger. If a visitor intends to go trekking or on a day outing, they can also bring items appropriate for these activities. If you are travelling in winter, do not miss bringing Warm Clothes, Socks and Extra Shoes.

4. Choose Accommodation Wisely

On a trip to India, booking your lodge for a stay is a crucial thing to keep in mind and it is one of the important parts of setting up your travel. When choosing an accommodation, you should take into account things like your safety, cost-effectiveness and an idle location. To the best knowledge, you can check the hotel’s review and remarks given to the hotel or the types of accommodation you would prefer. 

Examine the facility provided by the hotel or lodge you are willing to stay like what meals they offer, the amenities, parking area and wifi. Choose the accommodation based on your interest and choice whether it is luxury, affordable, close to attractions or the scenic view from the room. India's cities provide a variety of reasonably priced lodging alternatives, including homestays, hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels, for those on a tight budget. In addition, the nation offers a wide range of choices for those seeking five-star and luxury accommodations.

5. Safety

Safety is a major and first concern, especially in the case of women travelling solo. Although, the country is safe travellers from across the world have been on their solo journeys taking back various memories home. However, few things you must keep in mind to avoid any unforeseen circumstances, which are:

  • Do prior research about the place you will travel to and examine the safety record of the place you will travel. 
  • Avoid travelling late at night taking public transport, opt for shared cabs, and travel in metro.
  • Do not wear too many exposing dresses in crowded areas.
  • Do not mingle with strangers unnecessarily. 
  • Keep emergency contact numbers specific to the area.
  • Be in contact with your own.
  • Do not travel to walk around the suspicious location.
  • Take care of your belongings at busy markets.
  • Be aware of thieves.
  • Do not prefer local street food who do not take care of hygiene.
  • Book your hotel at good or pose locations to avoid unsafe area accommodation.

6. Choose the right mode of transportation

While travelling on a large route and sharing different destinations, you can cut a significant amount on choosing the right transportation modes. Using public transportation in India is a cost-effective deal to travel to the country’s different parts.

Indian Railways

Indian railway shares a vast network reaching every state of the country. You can travel to the different parts and states of India by obtaining an Indian railway ticket to the destination you will travel from the places you are travelling to. It's a cost-effective form of transportation and Indian trains run through each of Indian cities. If you buy your train ticket in advance, you will also save more money than if you buy closer to your travel.

Buses

Buses in India are an economical way to reach your destination paying less. Bus service in India takes passengers from one city to another and some cross-state borders too. You can easily from one Indian city to another as per your itinerary by paying very less.

Shared Autos or local transportation

For travelling in markets or nearby destinations, shared autos or e-rickshaws are the best option for travellers. Another affordable option for getting from one station to another is to use the subway metro.

7. Stay in touch with your close one

Your family member or anyone on your friend list should have information about where you are travelling to. It is an essential part and must do things while you travelling solo. It is also a good idea to be in touch with your loved ones and give them a call occasionally to let them know where you are. 

8. Buy Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is another helpful piece of advice that secures any such financial loss that happens during your travelling to India alone. Make sure your travel insurance covers the risk of financial loss, any accidental misshapen or other kinds of loss from the beginning to end of your travel. Additionally ensuring that your insurance would pay for the cost of having a companion accompany you to the hospital in the event of an emergency is another thing to consider.  With the backing of a travel insurance plan, you will assured the coverage of treatment that can save your life and compensate for the financial setback.

9. Buy a Local Simcard

It is also an important thing to consider if you are in India on a solo trip. During your journey, you have to contact your hotel staff and tour guide and make several phone calls which can be an expensive deal if you do it with an international sim card. By using a local SIM card, you can make as many as calls possible and use data without the hassle of roaming and international charges. From flexible time length to data security, a local SIM Card is a beneficial deal.

10. Carry Enough Cash

For every traveller who is on a solo trip, the important thing to carry with you or have with you is enough cash. Running out of cash may get you in trouble when you are stuck in a situation like low network connectivity issues and travelling to places like hills, where ATMs are hardly found or at small shops or markets, where online payments are not accepted. 

Having enough cash is important while travelling to places like India. it helps you in an emergency when your credit card is low on funds or doesn't work. You can easily make a small purchase like buying chips, cold drinks or other materials. It is also helpful when you like to give a tip to your waiter or for paying any gratitude.

11. Take off Your Shoes at Pilgrimages

India is known for its culture and tradition and the country has rich ethics and moral values especially when it comes to religious places. As per Indian religious values, no one can enter holy places like temples, mosques or Gurudwaras wearing shoes. Keep these things in mind and take off the shoes or chappal outside the Temple’s premises.

12. Be Aware of Unwarranted Favours from Strangers

Do not easily perceive what others say and use your instinct, for any such favour you will have to pay for that. At popular sites like the Taj Mahal, India Gate or any popular tourist attractions, you will see people ask to take a photo and later may charge for that. Additionally, a lot of salespeople will use their techniques to comprehend you, which may result in an expansion. 

13. Avoid Dark Streets or Unsafe Places

When travelling alone, a person rarely has someone to support them, so it is advisable to not pass by the avoided areas and dark alleys. You will obtain an idea about those spots with a little research by taking the help of Google or by reading the blogs of travellers who went to those places. In India or anywhere there are some spots that can be filled with snatchers, thieves or mischievous. Be alert and get the best out of your tour.

14. Use the Technology

Technologies are extremely helpful for a solo traveller. You can use apps like currency converter, GPS, translator and travelling guides to head towards your journey with ease. There are also apps like Magicbrics or 99 acres.com that provide accommodation easily seeing your budget. By using Zomato, Swiggy or Dunzo you will probably get an idea about the best food stalls or restaurants where you live. Similarly, Google Maps will help you in your path guiding you with distinct routes.

15. Take Care of your Travel Documents

Documents like your passport and visa are very important ones and losing any of them during the travel can be fairly disturbing. You may face a penalty or overstay in the country you are travelling. It can bring you into difficulty if you lose or restrain your identity or travel documents, therefore you really need to preserve them.

16. Be Aware of Scammers

You need to e careful of scams and touts while travelling to India. Scammers often target foreigners claiming them to be travel agents or by offering any services. They might pretend to be guides who can get you to attractions more quickly and provide you the free entry, or they might sell expensive or fake tickets. Scammers may also take you to the fake tourist office. Not all but a few shopkeepers may quote outrageous rates to foreigners. Also, beware of the Indian flag picture pinned by the women at different metro stations and ask you for a donation. Some restaurants may add extra items to your bill and charge you more. While there are very few locations where these catastrophes can happen, most of them are not. 

17. Cover Most of the Attractions and Iconic Sights

Being an alone traveller, you have every liberty and you are free to travel all your dream destinations. Try to visit the popular attractions of the city. For example, if your day is scheduled in Delhi, visit the famous landmarks and monuments like the Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Akshardham, Humayun’s Tomb, Hauz Khash Village etc. Also for a memorable experience, savour the delectable local foods of Delhi like, Chhole Bhature, Chaat Papri, Dahi Bhalle, Chicken curry or Butter Chicken. Likewise, if you are travelling in Agra, do not miss to view the charm of Taj Mahal and visit the famous Baga Beach, if your trip is scheduled in Goa. 

18. Learn to Dine Alone

If you plan to go on a vacation alone, it is important to make sure that eating alone does not put you off. Try out different regional and continental flavours, while taking in the sights of everyone around you. Do not unnecessarily focus on your loneliness and enjoy different types of dishes to make the most of your journey.

19. Learn New Things

Travelling alone gives you the opportunity to celebrate with unique activities and indulge your own fantasies. By travelling to different places you about new things, activities and of course a new language. Taking up a new language, cooking class or other course is a great way to get to explore the place and use the time.

20. Consider the Offbeat Tracks

One of the best feelings, while you travel alone, is to become the offbeat traveller and choose to go on the road less travelled. Unique experiences that are frequently overlooked by more well-known locations can be found in offbeat tourist spots. You will come across undiscovered routes, breathtaking scenery, and real culture.  Unexpected locations may also provide more downtime, letting you extend your exploration and enjoyment of the day. You can also contribute to the strengthening of friendships by forging enduring connections and treasured memories.

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