My First Solo Trip to Rishikesh: Just Me, My Bag & Some Guts

Going on your first solo trip as a woman is equal parts wow and what if? On one hand, it’s super exciting, and on the other, you’re constantly wondering “am I being too brave… or just plain crazy?” When you’re used to having someone around while travelling—family, friends, cousins—it feels like a safety net. But when you step out alone, that net disappears. Or so it feels. But yaar, it doesn’t have to be like that.

There are so many ways to enjoy your solo trip without feeling unsafe or awkward. And today, I’m sharing the story of my first solo trip with you.

“Traveling alone will be your life’s most wondrous, refreshing, and life-changing experience. At least do it once!”

So… how did this trip even happen?
I was in Gujarat back then and thought, “If I’m going all the way to Delhi, why not extend the trip for a couple of days?” Classic jugaad brain, no? I asked my parents—they were surprisingly chill—and boom, my solo trip plan was born.

Why Rishikesh, though?

Well, I’d already been to Uttarakhand a few times with family and friends, so it felt familiar and safe. I knew the local areas, how to get around, where to stay, etc. Plus, being a full-on nature lover, the idea of sitting by the Ganga in Rishikesh was already dreamy in my head.

And just like that, the solo trip began…

I took an early morning flight from Ahmedabad to Delhi. Had to prep a presentation for my meeting, so I kept myself busy at the airport (bonus: no time to overthink or panic). After landing, I took a cab straight to my pre-booked hotel, freshened up, nailed the meeting, had lunch with colleagues, and by evening I was free. Since my colleagues were Delhi locals, they took me to a nearby shopping street. Everything was super affordable and unique—I went a little crazy shopping. But the real winner? Golgappas. Uff, Delhi ke golgappe are unbeatable!

Delhi folks were super helpful too. They gave me the full metro gyaan—routes, stations, everything. Felt good knowing I wouldn’t get lost in that giant city!

Next stop: Haridwar!

Since I had an early train the next day, I slept early (I know, shocking right?). I took the metro to Hazrat Nizamuddin station and boarded my pre-booked train to Haridwar. It took around 6 hours, and my hotel was conveniently close to the station—thank god.

Next morning, I headed to Har Ki Pauri for the Ganga Aarti. What a vibe, yaar. It’s always full of sadhus, priests, pilgrims, and the energy is something else. The moment you step into that atmosphere, it feels like time slows down. So peaceful, so divine.

Onwards to Rishikesh!

There are frequent state buses from Haridwar to Rishikesh, and within an hour, I was there. First stop—a cute little café by the Ganga. I munched on snacks, sipped coffee, and just soaked it all in. Visited all the popular spots, did some local shopping (of course), and the best part? No one telling me what to eat, where to go, or when to come back.

It was me time. Pure, uninterrupted, no-filter me time. And trust me, it was something I’ll never forget.

After spending two wonderful days in Rishikesh, I came back home—feeling braver, lighter, and somehow, stronger.

For more information about must-see spots in Rishikesh, visit Uttarakhand Tourism for detailed itineraries and tips.

“When you travel alone, being totally responsible for yourself, you’ll eventually find out how strong you are.”

Not gonna lie, I was nervous about eating alone or roaming alone sometimes. But whenever it got too much, I’d just text my friends or family. Thankfully, nothing unpleasant happened on the trip. But still—precautions are must, especially for solo female travelers.

So if you’re thinking about solo travel for women in India, here’s my honest advice—go for it. Start with familiar or well-connected places. Trust your gut, take your time, and always keep someone informed.

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences. If you’re interested in more solo travel tips, check out my guide to safe solo travel for women.

Girls, pack that bag. The world’s waiting.