Traveling solo this summer doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right destinations and budget stays, you can enjoy unforgettable experiences while keeping costs low. From high-altitude deserts to scenic lakes and beachside bliss, here are five affordable travel options across India for solo adventurers.

1. Spiti, Himachal Pradesh – The Budget Ladakh Alternative

For those dreaming of Ladakh but looking for a cost-effective option, Spiti Valley offers a stunning and budget-friendly alternative. The raw beauty of its high-altitude landscapes, peaceful monasteries, and dramatic cliffs make it ideal for solo explorers. Stay at Zostel Spiti, which offers budget dorms and cozy private rooms with scenic views, and a great chance to meet fellow travelers.

Budget Tip: Use public buses from Manali or Shimla instead of private cabs to reduce travel costs.

2. Kareri Lake, Himachal Pradesh – A Scenic Himalayan Escape

For nature lovers, Kareri Lake is an offbeat trekking destination surrounded by snowy peaks and pine forests. Enjoy a bonfire dinner under starry skies and camp beside the serene glacial lake. Zo Trips offers a 2-night package with accommodation at Zostel and Kareri campsite, meals, Volvo bus transport from Delhi to Dharamshala and back, local taxis, and permits—all thoughtfully arranged for solo explorers.

Pro Tip: Smaller group sizes and immersive local experiences make this trek truly special.

3. Varkala, Kerala – A Beach Escape Without the Crowd

Skip the crowds of Goa and head to Varkala—a calm coastal town with cliffs, clean beaches, and great seafood. Zostel Varkala offers a chill vibe with comfortable dorms and shared spaces, just minutes from the beach.

Budget Tip: Try Kerala-style “Thattukadas” for delicious street food that’s easy on the wallet.

4. Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh – The Hidden Gem of Tirthan Valley

Jibhi is the perfect retreat for travelers seeking peace, nature, and old-world charm. Think riverside trails, wooden houses, and cascading waterfalls. Stay at Zostel Homes Laida, a traditional homestay with a Himachali-style home and private mudhouse. It’s a quiet, soulful experience ideal for solo stays.

Budget Tip: Explore nearby villages on foot, like Chehni Kothi, to avoid cab fares and enjoy authentic interactions.

5. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Unexplored and Unforgettable

Tawang offers unmatched solitude and cultural richness. With Zo Trips’ 6N/7D tour, solo travelers can explore the snow-capped eastern Himalayas, Buddhist monasteries, and high-altitude lakes. This experience includes travel through dramatic terrains, deep valleys, and dense forests in one of India’s most remote regions.

Pro Tip: Choose off-season dates for better deals and fewer crowds.

With smart choices—like hostels, shared tours, and public transport—solo travel in India can be both thrilling and affordable. These destinations promise a mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty without the high price tag.

In the wake of recent unrest in Srinagar, a new report by Sciative Solutions, a leader in AI-driven pricing optimisation, has unveiled a sharp contrast in how the hospitality and airline sectors have reacted through pricing — spotlighting the growing need for ethical checks in AI algorithms.

The report found that hotel prices in the Srinagar region dropped by an average of 22%, with some properties slashing rates by up to 46% to attract bookings amidst plunging demand. Meanwhile, outbound airfares from Srinagar soared by 46%, with some routes, such as Srinagar to Kolkata, witnessing a staggering 213% increase, jumping from ₹7,666 to ₹24,000.

While inbound flights to Srinagar saw prices fall by up to 53%, the imbalance created a fragmented environment for tourism — one that significantly impacted local occupancy rates and raised pressing questions about pricing ethics in times of uncertainty. Hotel occupancy reportedly fell by 30%, as both domestic and international tourists steered clear of the conflict-hit region.

“Dynamic pricing can be a powerful tool, but during times of crisis, the human element must be prioritized,” said Ms. Vijeta Soni, Co-founder & CEO of Sciative Solutions. “Our analysis shows how pricing algorithms, without ethical safeguards, can exacerbate vulnerabilities. Businesses must not allow profitability to overshadow the human impact of their pricing decisions.”

Adding to the conversation, Dr. Anshu Jalora, Founder & Managing Director, noted,

“The stark contrast between hotel and airline pricing during the unrest underscores the complexities of dynamic pricing systems. While technology enables efficiency and profitability, we must be mindful that these algorithms reflect the values we program into them.”

The report underscores the urgent need for responsible AI frameworks, especially in sectors as sensitive as travel and hospitality. Without ethical constraints, algorithm-driven systems risk deepening inequalities or exploiting crises for gain. Sciative’s call to action: businesses must balance smart pricing with social responsibility, ensuring fair access and compassion in emergency situations.

About Sciative Solutions:

Sciative Solutions is an innovation-focused AI firm dedicated to transforming pricing strategies for businesses across sectors. From retail to hospitality, the company delivers smarter, more profitable pricing outcomes while promoting ethical practices in artificial intelligence. With a commitment to responsible innovation, Sciative helps clients unlock new growth opportunities in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Despite a steady daily traffic of over 50,000 passengers, Chennai Airport continues to fall short in attracting international travelers. Industry experts point out that unless fresh strategies are put into place, the airport’s growth in the global sector may remain stunted.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chennai had gained good momentum with direct connections to major global cities like Paris, Tokyo, and even the Reunion Islands. But that progress has slowed, and travelers now face added hurdles when flying abroad. For instance, a passenger flying to Tokyo from Chennai currently has to transit through Delhi, adding unnecessary travel time and raising overall costs, this is a key reason for declining interest in international routes from Chennai.

Interestingly, while infrastructure upgrades are underway  including the construction of a second phase of the international terminal to support 35 million passengers annually, international traffic hasn't picked up pace. This mismatch between growing capacity and underwhelming global reach raises questions about future planning and execution.

Many believe the return of direct international flights from Chennai could play a pivotal role in bringing back the pre-pandemic passenger volume. Passengers are eager for seamless travel options, and delays in restoring direct global connections could hurt Chennai's standing among international flyers.

On a positive note, officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) have confirmed that steps are being taken to revive the discontinued international routes. They remain optimistic that global traffic will gradually rise in the coming years, provided the needed services are reinstated.

Hospitalitynews has conducted its research on this initiative to provide verified and timely information to its readers.