Want To Backpack Through India? 7 Routes For First-Time Travellers

Last Updated:June 01, 2025, 15:06 IST

Want to go backpacking but confused which route to pick? Here is the ultimate guide for a budget-friendly backpacking adventure.

India is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for first-time backpackers. With so much to explore, picking the right route can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’ve got the ultimate guide just for you. From the majestic forts of Rajasthan to the towering peaks of the Himalayas and the tranquil beaches, these backpacking routes provide a perfect mix of adventure, affordability, and breathtaking sights.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced traveller, these are seven routes you should not miss.

Delhi – Agra – Jaipur

This is arguably India’s most popular and accessible route. Backpackers are advised to start in Delhi which is teeming with history and hustle. Explore places like Red Fort to Chandni Chowk. Then hop on a train to Agra and marvel at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. End this trip in Jaipur, the Pink City, where palaces, forts, and bustling bazaars serve up a rich taste of Rajasthani culture.

Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur

For travellers who want to chase regal grandeur and desert charm, this route is unmissable. In Jaisalmer, backpackers can explore the golden sandstone fort and glide across the dunes on a camel safari. After that, they can take a bus or a train to Jodhpur. The city will impress you with its towering Mehrangarh Fort and blue-coloured houses. Finally, you can unwind in Udaipur where lakeside palaces and romantic sunsets cast an irresistible spell.

Manali – Leh – Dharamshala

Travellers can start from Manali, a major trekking, paragliding and rafting centre and take a road journey via bus or bike to Leh. The last leg of this trip is in Dharamshala, the abode of the Dalai Lama, where Tibetan culture merges with Himalayan serenity.

Shillong – Cherrapunji – Kaziranga

This route uncovers the lesser-travelled northeastern region of India. Shillong, the vibrant capital of Meghalaya, offers music, misty hills, and street food to die for. From there, proceed to Cherrapunji, home to the living root-bridges and waterfalls. End the getaway at Assam’s Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with wild one-horned rhinos.

Kerala – Hampi – Mysuru

Love lush landscapes and ancient ruins? This route is definitely for you. Kerala is a true gem which boasts of serene backwaters in Alleppey, aromatic spice trails in Thekkady, and stunning tea gardens in Munnar. Then there’s Hampi with its surreal boulder-strewn scenery and centuries-old ruins that tell the stories of long-lost empires. Wrap up the adventure in Mysuru, where you can explore the grand palace, vibrant markets, and dive into the rich history of royalty.

Delhi – Rishikesh – Dehradun – Mussoorie

Craving a taste of the Himalayas with a hint of spirituality? Start the journey in Rishikesh, nestled along the holy Ganges river. Take a breather in Dehradun before heading to Mussoorie, the Queen of the Hills. Picture colonial charm, misty mornings, and endless trekking opportunities. The route is not only easy to navigate but also super budget-friendly and refreshingly green.

Mumbai – Goa – Gokarna

Kick things off in the vibrant city of Mumbai, where you can soak up its vibrant energy and indulge in street food like vada pav. Then, make your way to Goa for sun, sea, and a whole lot of susegad (that’s the local way of saying chill). After that, finish your journey with an escape to Gokarna, a quieter beach town that’s perfect for yoga, solitude, and sipping on coconut water. With budget hostels, beach shacks, and sleeper buses, you can keep your expenses light and your adventures rich.

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More

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