India’s geography is filled with diverse experiences like snowy Himalayan peaks, tranquil beaches and backwaters, tropical rainforests, arid expanses of deserts, and the grandeur of forts and palaces. It offers a variety of travel options and routes for every traveller, especially backpackers. But choosing the right route as a first-time traveller might be a bit tricky. So to help you, unstumbled is here with the best routes for first-time travellers for backpacking in India.
All About Backpacking India
What Is Backpacking?
Backpacking is basically a form of low-cost independent travel where individuals carry all their gear and essentials in one single backpack. The essence of backpacking is experiencing local life, opting for budget-friendly stays, and using public transportation for commuting. It is more about the experiences than the luxury.
Best Routes: Backpacking India For Beginners
Here are some amazing routes that are beginner-friendly for backpacking in India.
Northeast India Backpacking Route
Guwahati – Majuli – Kaziranga – Shillong
Northeast India is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural diversity, making it perfect for beginner backpackers. A beginner-friendly route for backpacking in the northeast begins in Guwahati. Here you can explore the beautiful and exceptional ancient Kamakhya Temple and the stunning Brahmaputra River ghats. Then you can easily take a bus to Majuli, the world’s largest river island.
The river island is known for its unique Vaishnavite monasteries and amazing cycling paths. Next, you can head to the diverse Kaziranga National Park. Here you can go for fun jeep safaris for spotting rhinos and elephants amid green grasslands. Wrap up your backpacking journey in Shillong, the “Scotland of the East.” The city is known for its pine hills, waterfalls, and vibrant local markets. All these places are well-connected by affordable buses and homestays. A 9-day-long itinerary is perfect for exploring northeast India.
Rajasthan Backpacking Route
Jaipur – Jodhpur – Jaisalmer
Kick off your Rajasthan backpacking trip in the pink city of Jaipur. Begin your day by exploring the Amber Fort’s elephant rides and mesmerizing views of the famous Hawa Mahal. You can also visit the vibrant bazaars here to buy handicrafts and relish street food. Next, travel to Jodhpur.
Witness the grandeur of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort overlooking blue-painted havelis. Visit the bustling clock tower markets for camel leather souvenirs and other authentic Rajasthani goods. End your backpacking journey in Jaisalmer’s golden sandstone fort amid the Thar Desert. Opt for camel safaris to Sam Sand Dunes for sunset camps, folk performances, and starlit nights. You can easily travel via local trains/buses that connect various places. A fun itinerary of 8 days would be the best.
South India Backpacking Route
Bengaluru – Mysore – Coorg – Gokarna
Begin your southern backpacking journey in Bengaluru. It is a well-known tech hub with amazing cafes, craft beer pubs, and beautiful parks. You can explore the city for a day, and then take a bus and head to Mysore. It houses the grand Mysore Palace, which glows brightly during Dasara. You can visit the yoga retreats here for spirituality, and also go for silk sari shopping.
Now visit the lovely city, Coorg. It is known for its misty coffee plantations with plantation walks, Abbey Falls treks, and pretty homestays. You can easily stay in any homestay, know the culture, and also take part in activities like plantation walks. Finish the journey at Gokarna. The town is home to pristine beaches like Om and Half Moon with cheap shacks and water sports. A relaxed 9-day itinerary is perfect for exploring the southern part of India.
Himachal Backpacking Route
Manali – Kasol – Jibhi
Begin your Himachal backpacking journey from Himachal’s adventure hub, Manali. Go paragliding at Solang Valley, witness the mesmerising views at Rohtang Pass, and visit the ancient Hadimba Temple. Now go ahead to Kasol and drink a cup of hot chocolate in Kasol’s Parvati Valley for riverside cafes. The place is perfect for fun bonfires and hot springs.
To end your Himachal backpacking journey on a good note, visit the quaint hamlet of Jibhi. Go for key activities like hiking to Serolsar Lake and Raghupur Fort, visiting the Jibhi Waterfall, and relaxing by the Tirthan River.
Summing Up
The above article has four simple and beginner-friendly routes for backpacking beginners. From the north east to the south, the backing India guide has it all. Read and do share.
