Pack up and go! 10 destinations for backpackers in India

Hampi, Karnataka  Its evocative ruins, intriguingly intermingled with huge boulders that rear up all over the landscape, make it a must-visit destination in India. This place has some budget-friendly guesthouses.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand Rishikesh attracts plenty of spiritual seekers throughout the country. This place feels calm, cool and international. Several people visit Rishikesh for the adventure sports offered here.

Pushkar, Rajasthan  The Pushkar Camel Festival is one of the most famous festivals in the country. This is a laid-back holy hippie town that offers rooftop yoga, cooking classes, henna tattoos, and wellness therapies.

Anjuna Beach, Goa  Anjuna Beach in north Goa is a beautiful place for backpackers with its numerous shacks and flea markets. Enjoy a bunch of good food options.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh  The fascinating thing about this mystical city is that its rituals are revealed openly along the riverside ghats, which are used for everything from bathing to burning the bodies of the dead

Jaipur, Rajasthan The 'Pink City' holds several wonders like the Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal among other places to visit. Taste some lip-smacking food like lal maas, dal bati churma, ker sangri among other delicious dishes. 

Dharamshala, Uttarakhand  Dharamsala is the perfect destination for those seeking some respite from their monotonous routine. Relax in the home of the Dalai Lama at McLeodganj, unwind in some western-styled cafes and visit the world’s highest cricket ground and the tea gardens

Gangtok, Sikkim  Visit Gangtok, the Nathu-la pass, the Tsongmo Lake, Lachung, Yumthang, Lachen, the Borong Tsa-Chu hot springs and Pelling. Gorge on some local cuisine and street-food especially hot momos and enjoy some retail therapy.

Darjeeling, West Bengal Clear skies, snow-clad mountains, breathtaking horizon and tea gardens, this is what make Darjeeling a dream place. Visit the Mongolian Ghoom Monastery, take a ride in the toy train and tour the Rock Gardens for a perfect backpacking holiday

Puducherry Visit this Union Territory for a peaceful time. Explore the White Town to see the beauty and the old-world charm of the French architecture, enjoy some authentic French cuisine in the many French cafes in town, street shopping and get a taste of French culture.