32,87,590sq km. 29 States & 7 Union Territories- can a single human being travel through all that?Maybe yes, maybe not. But when a single adventurous spirit vows to travel through India, India makes sure to make the traveller ‘wow’ with every second. These places will louden your ‘Wow’:
1. Ladakh
This isn’t for a novice traveller. If you think riding up a mountain bike, trekking up, living in a not-so-luxurious tent by the camp side is your thing, Ladakh is waiting for you.
Must Visits: Pangong Lake, Leh Palace, Nubra Valley, Shey Monastry.
Tip: Fuel up your Bullet, and don’t even dare to forget your Camera!
2. Varanasi
Doesn’t matter which religion you follow or which god you believe in, Varanasi holds enough to surprise anyone. It’s usually crowded enough to make you feel well-surrounded.
Must Visits: Evening Ganga Aarti, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dhamek and Chaukhandi Stupa.
Tip: If someone offers you a billion dollars or going to the evening Ganga Aarti…Well, take the billion dollars, obviously. But, on the very next evening, do visit the Evening Ganga Aarti.
3. Puducherry
Against its funny name (Sorry, but yes!), this is a serious place. It’s seriously, peaceful and calm. When the entire country is shouting, it is highly suggested to go to this Union Territory, and listen to your own breath, along with trying the French Cuisine out there.
Must Visits: Paradise Beach, Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, ArulmiguManakulaVinayagar Temple.
Tip: Try the French cuisine.
4. Shimla
Popular as a sasta honeymoon destination, it’s actually good for individual trips too. Snow-Covered mountains at the top, followed by monasteries in the middle, and bright evening markets in the evening, Shimla has to be somewhere near the top on your bucket list.
Must Visits: Viceregal Lodge, Town Hall, Kali Bari Temple, and everything else!
Tip: Try some souvenir shopping at Mall Road and SubziMandi.
5. Manali
The close neighbor to Shimla has risen up for younger travellers. A backpacker’s heaven, it has all that a solo traveller would need.
Must Visits: Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Manali Sanctuary.
Tip: As Shree RanbirKapoor had suggested in YJHD, try Lugdi. Do visit La Plage and Lousy Dog Lounge.
6. Goa
You might be Single, Double, Married, Busy, Not-so-busy, Hippie, Happy, Sad, PM, CM, Alien- whatever you’re in whatever state of mind you’re, Goa is for you. Goa is the ultimate escape from everyday life. So, loosen up and be ‘su se gaat’, as they say in Goa!
Must Visits: Dudhsagar Falls, Cavelossim Beach, , Old Goa, Tomb of St. Francis Xavier, Shantadurga Temple.
Tip: When shopping around, don’t hesitate to bargain. Keep a separate day for Dudhsagar, and take a train from Vasco or Margao. The scenic beauty from the train is immense.
7. Mysore
The city is specially safe for female travellers in the day, and holds enough of rich cultural heritage to look at.
Must Visits: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Rail Museum, Government House.
Tip: When in Mysore during the Navaratri, do visit the Dasara Procession.
8. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is one of the most contemporary places in this list. With a deep religious significance on one hand, Rishikesh is also a hub for relaxation, yoga and adventure sports on the other.
Must Visits: Lakshman Jhula, Little Buddha Café, Shri Trimbakeshwar Temple.
Tip: Don’t miss out the Ganga Aarti. And spare some time for Omkarananda Ganga Sadan.
9. Udaipur
The melting pot of true-blue Rajasthani culture, Udaipur is also called Venice of the east. With stunning views, welcoming culture and lip-smacking food, Udaipur is bound to rule your bucket list.
Must Visits: City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Fatehsagar Lake, Lake Palace.
10. Munnar (Kerala)
3 things: Amazing tea plantations, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and honest locals.
Must Visits: Devikulam, Attukal Waterfalls
Tip: Visit in Monsoon. Tea Tasting is obvious!