Some say that they love to travel in groups because it is a lot of fun and doesn’t put a lot of strain on one person’s wallet. However, solo traveling has been there for a long time and the concept is that you pack your bags and go out alone exploring the true beauty of the world all by yourself. And if you are someone who’s in love with solo trips, then today’s post is all about you. That’s because here we will be going over the top 10 best places for solo trips in South India for 2023.
South of the country, there is literally an abundance of places that’ll surprise you with their stunning landscape and rich culture. Going further South, there are surely a lot of places to explore on your own, but these ten are the choice of many, so here we are with the list. Now let’s get down to it then. Shall we?
Think of a city that's as lively as it is beautiful, where diverse cultures mix and history comes alive. Welcome to Kochi! It's nestled in Kerala, along the Arabian Sea, so you know the views are going to be breathtaking. Don't even worry about safety or language barriers. Kochi is a friendly city where people speak English and you'll feel at home even if you're miles away from your actual home. Plus, all the cool stuff is close together in Fort Kochi, so put on your best walking shoes and get down to exploring! Get lost in the historic streets, haggle in markets, enjoy the waterfront, and don't forget to catch a Kathakali performance. What's Kathakali, you ask? It's a traditional dance that tells epic stories through colorful costumes and expressive movements. And when the hustle and bustle gets too much, just find a quiet spot by the backwaters or beaches to recharge your batteries. Kochi really does have it all!
Knocking on heaven's door in Karnataka, there's this gem of a place called Gokarna. This beach town is like the younger sibling of Goa, less crowded, more serene, and with an irresistible charm of its own. For those flying solo, there’s hardly a better place to get lost in the heady mix of spirituality, sun-soaked beaches, and welcoming locals. Now, the people of Gokarna are what you call real MVPs, used to tourists, respectful, and downright hospitable. They will make you feel right at home, which is a real perk when you're traveling solo. And if you're one of those adventurous spirits, boy, are you in for a treat! The coastal treks here are the stuff of dreams.
Pack your bags again; we’re heading to Varkala. Located in the breathtakingly beautiful state of Kerala, this coastal town is more than just a destination, it’s an experience. Blessed with pristine beaches, gorgeous cliffs, and healing springs, Varkala is the place to be if you want to soothe your senses. The locals here could win an award for their hospitality. Always friendly, welcoming, and respectful, they make this haven of peace feel even more secure for solo explorers. But the cherry on top for solo travelers has to be the Varkala Cliff area, buzzing with backpackers from all around the globe. There are budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, which means you won't have to sell an organ to afford a decent place to stay!
If your solo travels lean towards the fascinating ruins of ancient civilizations, then Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site tucked away in Karnataka, is your stop. Imagine a city that once thrived with life, teeming with traders, scholars, and merchants from every corner of the world. Today, it stands as a glorious testament to the Vijayanagara Empire's past grandeur. Walking the worn-out paths of Hampi, you can almost hear the faint echoes of history through its elaborate temples, palaces, and market streets. The locals, ever warm and friendly, are always up for a chat, sharing tidbits about the glorious city that was. While you're knee-deep into the ruins' mysteries, don't forget to take a breather with activities like rock climbing or peaceful coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River.
This charming hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala is the definition of picturesque. Imagine waking up to hills flooded with mist, verdant tea gardens, and the aroma of fresh tea leaves wafting through the air. Doesn't that sound like heaven for a solo traveler? Munnar is sure to be a sensory delight with an adventurous twist. Flex those muscles with a trek to Anamudi Peak or a hike to the Top Station. And for wildlife enthusiasts, the Eravikulam National Park is a must-visit. The best part is that you can do all these at your own pace, with no group itineraries to compromise your style! This quaint town's calmness will give you the perfect setting to introspect, get lost in the rhythm of nature, and let your thoughts flow with the gentle rustle of the tea leaves. After all, isn't that what solo travels are all about?
Can we just start by saying, Kodaikanal is a slice of heaven tucked away in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats? It's got the kind of chill weather that makes you want to sip on hot chocolate, snug under a blanket, with a good book. With its picture-perfect views and year-round cool breeze (thanks to its elevation of roughly 2,100 meters), Kodaikanal is that friend who won't disappoint no matter when you visit. Its small-town charm is a win, especially if you're traveling solo. You can lace up your favorite sneakers and lose yourself in the winding roads, without actually getting lost. The town's compact design is like a welcoming smile, saying, "Come on in, take a detour, there's no rush here." Verdant hills hugging cloud-kissed skies, coupled with serene lakes, make you want to pull out a chair and sit in silence, savoring the beauty.
A little piece of France nestled in South India, Pondicherry is a solo traveler's dream. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll down the French Quarter's charming streets, or just unwind by the serene beaches. There's something about the laid-back vibe of the place that just screams 'calmness.' Solo trips are all about 'me-time,' and Pondicherry offers a whole bunch of it. Explore the city at your own rhythm on a rented bicycle, or lose yourself in meditation at the Aurobindo Ashram. As for food? That is something you'll surely fall in love with in no time.. The city's cuisine is a delightful blend of South Indian flavors with a French twist - trust me, your taste buds will be in heaven.
Mahabalipuram, or as the locals call it, Mamallapuram is a small town in Tamil Nadu that offers a magnificent time travel to the past. We’re talking UNESCO World Heritage Site kinda stuff here, folks. The best part is that the town is so compact that you could easily cover it on foot or maybe, add some spice to your journey by renting a bicycle or scooter. Solo travelers, don't you worry about safety or hospitality, the locals got you covered! It’s more than a place; it's an experience that perfectly marries the culturally rich with the divinely serene. Imagine walking along the beach, feeling the soft sand under your feet while admiring the grandeur of ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures.
Next up, we are drifting towards Karnataka, to a place that smells of freshly ground coffee and rings with the music of nature, Coorg, or Kodagu. A nature lover's haven and an adventure junkie's playground, Coorg is all about letting the beauty of the outdoors take over your senses. Be it trekking, taking a nature walk, or bird watching, the euphoria of doing it solo is a feeling you'll remember forever. If experiencing culture up close excites you, the homestays amidst lush coffee plantations offer the perfect opportunity. Who knows, you might end up having the most heartwarming conversations with your hosts over a cup of local coffee.
Now, let's glide further south, to the stunning backwaters of Alleppey, or Alappuzha, in the ever-so-beautiful state of Kerala. Kerala is one such state of India where you’ll find the friendliest people compared to other regions of the country, making it an ideal spot for solo explorers, especially the ladies. Alleppey is the kind of place that you'd imagine when you think of Kerala. Solo travel, in Alleppey, isn't just about exploring; it's about living the culture. It's about tasting traditional cuisines, exchanging stories with locals, and diving deep into the rich culture of local festivals and art forms.
Conclusion
There you have it. If you are on a big journey to discover not only the inner-self of yours, but the true beauty of India, then you’d surely like these 10 places for a solo trip. We would suggest at least visiting a couple of places from today’s list, and see for yourself what the Southern region of the country has to offer.