Discover India’s Best Backpacking Route: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking for an adventure that will take you far from your everyday life? Do you crave a trip that will satisfy your wanderlust and inspire you with new cultures? Then consider backpacking through India.
India is a country of diverse cultures, beliefs, and landscapes. Backpacking through India will expose you to different ways of life, cuisine, religions, music, and art. However, given the vastness of India and the diversity of its regions, it might be daunting to decide where to start, which places to visit, and how to commute.
That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive guide that covers India’s best backpacking route. Let’s dive in.
Starting point: Delhi
Delhi is the perfect launchpad for your Indian journey. It’s the capital city of India and can be reached by direct flights from major cities worldwide. Delhi is a blend of ancient culture, colonial architecture, and modern buildings. To get a feel for the city, take a stroll in Old Delhi, visit the towering Red Fort or explore the vibrant market of Chandni Chowk. To learn about India’s history and culture, visit the National Museum, the Lotus Temple, or the Akshardham temple.
Exploring Rajasthan
Rajasthan is a state in western India, known for its forts, palaces and vibrant culture. It’s among the most popular stops on an Indian backpacking trip. Travel from Delhi to Jaipur, the “Pink City”. Here you can visit the majestic Amer Fort, the Jantar Mantar observatory, and the Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds. From there, visit the desert cities of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur. Each has a unique flavor and ambiance, ranging from the blue-painted houses of Jodhpur to the sandstone fortresses of Jaisalmer.
Adventures in the Himalayan foothills
No Indian travel itinerary is complete without a stop in the northern Himalayan region. Leave Rajasthan and head to McLeod Ganj, a small town with a vibrant Tibetan community nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Here you can trek in the Dhauladhar Mountains, visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex or just relax in the town’s cafes or markets.
From McLeod Ganj, travel to Manali, a picturesque town with an adventurous edge. You can go trekking in the Solang Valley or Parvati Valley, go river rafting on the Beas, or visit the hot springs in Vashisht.
Exploring India’s Southern Coast
After the northern Himalayan escapades, head to the southern part of India for sun, sand, and sea. Take a flight to Goa, a former Portuguese colony now famous for its beaches and nightlife. You can explore old Goa’s churches and cathedrals, enjoy water sports or relax on the sandy shores.
From Goa, travel by train to Karnataka and visit the “Garden City” of Bangalore. Take a walk in the historic Lalbagh Botanical Garden, visit the Tipu Sultan Fort and Palace or get cultural insights at the Bangalore Palace. Then, travel to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that hosts enthralling ancient ruins.
Final Destination: Kerala
End your backpacking adventure in “God’s Own Country” – Kerala. Travel to Kochi, a coastal city famous for its Chinese fishing nets, colonial architecture, and Kochi-Muziris Biennale – an international festival of contemporary art. Then, head to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and stunning vistas.
Finally, head to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, a popular backwater destination. Here you can take a houseboat or kayak through the serene lagoons, canals, and lakes. Experience the rural life of Kerala, visit the coir industry, and learn about local cuisines.
Conclusion
Backpacking through India might serve as an overpowering experience, but following this comprehensive guide, you will witness India’s diverse culture, history, and landscapes. From Delhi to Kerala, this trip will be an adventure of a lifetime. Happy Backpacking!
