07/01/2015
10 REASONS WHY RAJASTHAN IS PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
Rajasthan, an ethnic and regal state of India, is my home away from home. After traveling to its three different cities – Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer all on my own, I consider it an ideal destination for solo travel.
Famed primarily for its rich culture and imposing forts and palaces, Rajasthan is one of the topmost tourist destinations in India, loved by both Indians and foreigners alike.
When I decided to travel solo for the first time, I thought of Rajasthan quite naturally because it had always fascinated me. And, when I went there, it turned out to be just as great as I imagined. It allowed me to be happily solo, yet embraced me in its colourful atmosphere.
Below are my top 10 reasons for picking Rajasthan as a solo travel destination.
1. People-friendly
Rajasthan’s hospitality is its iconic trademark, but even its friendliness is so off-the-cuff.
I remember walking through the narrow alleys of Udaipur during the festival of Diwali and it was all so fervent. I received smiles, amiable gestures and support while I was taking pictures and exchanging casual pleasantries with the hawkers. People’s inherent warmth instantly melted my hesitation as a solo traveler.
2. Festive atmosphere
Desert in Rajasthan
Rajasthan is a land of festivals. There are so many held annually such as the Desert Festival, Pushkar Fair, Elephant Festival, Gangaur Festival, Marwar Festival and Nagaur Festival just to name a few.
Also, the atmosphere in general is very festive. When I was in Jodhpur there were traditional folk dance and music performances held at the hotel every evening.
3. Good accommodation options
solo travel in Rajasthan
Lake Palace Hotel
When you are traveling solo, good accommodation is a top concern. Rajasthan has all kinds of options to choose from – luxury hotels, guest houses, heritage resorts, budget hotels and home stays. Apart from comfort and amenities, the hotels give you great hospitality and a true ‘Rajasthan’ experience.
4. Open-minded and respectful locals
Jaisalmer Fort alleys
Although Rajasthan is a highly conservative state, the locals respect a visitor’s individuality. If a woman is rambling all alone in any city of Rajasthan, she would be respected for who she is and her background.
Even if she is from a different culture or follows a totally different way of life, she wouldn’t draw attention. The locals in general know that they have to receive each guest with reverence.
5. Personal space
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort
Although people are friendly, they give you space to do your own thing.
I remember when I was in Jaisalmer, I found my own little corner where I sat with my laptop to catch up on work. There was another foreign girl there too, curled up with a book, while another guy was sunbathing. Thus, the feeling of being in Rajasthan is very homey.
6. Variety of things to see and do
Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
Every nook and cranny in the cities of Rajasthan are so full of buzz.
Some of my most memorable moments were people-watching and strolling along Lake Pichola in Udaipur, dining at Ambrai restaurant and bar with a view of the Lake Palace, catching a panoramic view of Udaipur, watching the sunset at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, and wandering the alleys of Jaisalmer Fort.
7. Ideal for slow travel
Golden Fort in Jaisalmer
Golden Fort in Jaisalmer
I learned the art of slow travel in Rajasthan, as I didn’t feel the need to do typically touristy things all the time.
I chose to skip a monument or two and happily relaxed at my hotel in Jodhpur, chatted with the staff, explored the nearby market, observed the local life, woke up before the hotel staff one morning to catch the first glimpse of sunrise and enjoyed a cup of tea with my fellow travelers.
8. Pick-up service by hotels
Udaipur Fatehsagar Lake
The best thing that happened to me in Rajasthan was to be received by one of the hotel staff at the train station. Most of the hotels in Rajasthan offer free transport from the airport/railway station to the hotel. It puts you at ease to simply be escorted to your hotel, while you are solo.
9. Free WiFi
Who wouldn’t care for the free internet available in your hotel room?
There is free WiFi in almost all the hotels in Rajasthan. It makes things easier, especially when you are traveling solo and you need to keep in touch with people at home. I enjoyed updating my friends and family with the latest pictures and happenings on my trip.
10.Safe and inviting
Sunset over the Blue City in Jodhpur
Although I don’t like to categorize places as safe or unsafe, Rajasthan is relatively safe.
I traveled to the desert all on my own from Jaisalmer. Comprehending my anxiety, the chauffeur took good care of me, and even the camel riders and the desert camping staff were so caring. Rajasthan welcomes a solo traveler with open arms.
