Known For : Tanah Lot Uluwatu Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Bali, Indonesia’s most famous island, is located to the west of Java in the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is world-renowned for its scenic rice terraces, fragrant cuisine, stunning beaches and a galore of culture and tradition. With its elaborate temples, endless coastline, some of the world's best coral reefs, waterfalls and retreats, Bali combines leisure and adventure, spiritual awakening and hard-partying all into one island that people from all over the world come to lose themselves in.
Safety Ranking: Bali is majorly a safe city for solo travellers, holding a rating of 57.7 % It is ranked 88th on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous cities. Crimes in Bali are largely non-violent.
Entertainment: Ubud Art Market, Besakih temple, Rice forest, Goa Gajah, surfing, Partying in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak
Affordability: Not so expensive.
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa is available for Indians on arrival but you must make sure that you extend the visa only once. A social and cultural visa is also available that stands valid for 60 days.
Best Time: April, May, June and September
Known For : Grand Palace Chatuchak Market Wat Phra Kaew
Glittering with lights, a lot of hustle bustle and a little bit of chaos, Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and is packed with tourist attractions - historical, religious or natural. A haven for shoppers, it attracts people from all over the world to its markets. It is often touted as the party capital of South East Asia. Bangkok also offers a bundle of fantastic street food, non-stop action and unforgettable experiences.
Safety Ranking: Bangkok is a city with medium risks. It is ranked 91th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries. It holds a rating of 49%
Entertainment: Grand Palace, Floating Market, China Town, Wat Pho, Chatuchak weekend market, Soi
Affordability: Inexpensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa is availed on arrival. One requires a passport with at least 6 months validity along with a minimum of 2 unused pages in it for entry and exit stamps. Airline boarding pass is a must to show.
Best Time: Late November to Mid Jaunary
Known For : Angkor Wat Ta Prohm Temple Bayon Temple
Siem Reap in Cambodia is a paragon of ancient glory and timeless grandeur; proudly being the gateway to one of the most astonishing architectures in world history- Angkor Wat. Although the main reason to stay in Siem Reap is to get yourself ready to explore several ancient temples, the city itself comes with a surprise package of historical and modern blends.
Safety Ranking: It is pretty safe. Tourist safety is given a lot of priority. Cambodia is ranked 59th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Phnom Kulen and Banteay Srei, Preah Khan, Angkor National Museum, Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre.
Affordability: Economical and not so pricey.
Visa Tips for Indians: visa is availed on arrival. In case you want to live for a duration of 3 months you need to pay a tourist entry tax of INR 1436.
Best Time: November to March
Known For : Hoi An Old Town Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An Night Market
Hoi An is one of the oldest cities located all over Asia. This city has been known to be around 2000 years old. This city is known to be established in the 15th century and is now declared as the world heritage site by UNESCO. This city was once a popular port and now is known to attract thousands of tourists worldwide.
Safety Ranking: It is safe. Vietnam is ranked 43rd out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Hoi An ancient town, Cooking class in Thuan Tinh Island, Hoi An Night Market, Yaly Couture-Tran Phu branch shop, Tra Que Vegetable Village in Hoi An
Affordability: Reasonable
Visa Tips for Indians: E-Visa application with an approval from the embassy is required. You need to hold a valid Indian Passport.
Best Time: February to July
Situated in South East Asia, South Korea is warm and welcoming with rich heritage and culture. The capital city offers many other cultural and artistic attractions, such as the Museum of Art, Seoul Fortress, and other old tombs. South Korea is not only rich in lakes, mountains, forests, and sanctuaries but also is the largest market for innovative cosmetics. Korea is also known for its excellence in cosmetic surgery. For shoppers, South Korea offers Korean antiques, artwork, traditional arts and crafts, clothing and accessories.
Safety Ranking: Korea being one of the safest countries in the world, Seoul thus has the highest overall safety index in the world, with a score of 85.69, and it ranked number one among the 117 countries on the list.
Entertainment: Gyeongbokgung palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeokgung, Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong, Lotte World
Affordability: Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Indians need to apply for a Visa if they stay for 90 days. Otherwise, South Korea has a 30 days visa free policy for Indian nationals holding valid US/Canada /Australia /New Zealand visas. However, citizens have to either travel to Korea from these countries directly, or once they have left Korea their next destination has to be any of those countries.
Known For : National Palace Museum Taipei 101 Chaing Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Capital of Taiwan, Taipei is the city where the government of the Republic of China shifted after the revolution in 1949. Today, it has developed by leaps and bounds, becoming an all encompassing tourist destination and also home to the world's 8th tallest building, the Taipei 101.
Safety Ranking: Taiwan is a really safe country. It is ranked 81st out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Taipei 101 from Elephant Mountain, train ride into Shifen, Hike up Mount Keelung, Taipei’s National Palace Museum, Dihua Street
Affordability: Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Free Online Visa application is available and the citizen needs to hold a valid passport which must have remaining validity of at least six months starting from the date of arrival in Taiwan.
Best Time: September to November
Known For : Coconut Tree Hill Mirissa Beach Secret Beach
Mirissa, what was a faint old beach town on the Southern of Sri Lanka has risen to be one of the most popular surfing and whale watching destination. The beach town is situated 150 kms south of Colombo and is dotted with palm trees, blue waters and colourful boats adorning the shores. Mirissa has a beautiful view along by the million things to do over here – Whale watching, Snorkelling, Surfing, Bodyboarding. The city offers the right balance between the calm days and lively nights by the beach.
Safety Ranking: Partly safe. Mirissa,Sri Lanka performs average on the UL Safety Index with a score of 61 on a scale of 100.
Entertainment: Secret beach, Parrot Rock, Coconut tree spot, Whale watching, surfing, Mirissa beach
Affordability: Partly Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa on arrival can be availed. You need to pay a tourist fee of INR 1,800. Online visa application is also available.
Best Time: December - March
One of the most popular countries in the world, England is located in Europe. It is also the dream destination for a lot of people for its beauty and grandeur. With a great history behind it, it has a rich heritage and culture. The English countryside is one of the most peaceful places in the country. The most famous historical sites include the old castles on the countryside, Roman sites and the royal palaces. Each city in the country has its own charm.
Safety Ranking: England is a safe country with low risks. It is ranked 33th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Stonehenge, BigBen, Tower of London, The Roman Baths and Georgian City of Bath, York Minster and Historic Yorkshire, British Museum.
Affordability: Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Book your UK tourist visa online. Usually a visa is issued for 6 months. You will need to pay a fee for processing your Visa application.
Known For : Sagrada Familia Park Guell Casa Batllo
Hans Christian Anderson described Barcelona as the "Paris of Spain" because of its resemblance with the French atmosphere. The city has a beautiful charm and a rich cultural significance. It is the capital city of autonomous community of Catalonia in Spain and the second largest city in Spain.
Safety Ranking: Barcelona is fairly a safe city. With a rating of 85% Spain, is ranked 17th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries. But there is a high risk of pick-pocketing due to heavy tourist influx.
Entertainment: La Sagrada Familia, Magic fountain show, Picasso Museum, Las Ramblas street, FC Barcelona museum & Camp Nou stadium.
Affordability: Moderately expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa extended for Indians for Spain is for three months only. You need to fill out the form online and need to hold a passport with a 6 month validity.
Best Time: May to August
Known For : Royal Palace of Madrid Almudena Cathedral The Sun's Gate
The capital city of Spain, Madrid is most popular for its cultural and artistic heritage. It also has the liveliest nightlife in the world. It is a cosmopolitan city which is the main centre of business as well as the seat of the government. It is also the political centre of Spain.
Safety Ranking: Madrid is also a safe city of Spain. With a rating of 85% Spain, is ranked 17th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Buen Retiro Park and the Crystal Palace, Prado Museum, Royal Palace and Gardens, Puerta del Sol.
Affordability: Moderately Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa extended for Indians for Spain is for three months only. You need to fill out the form online and need to hold a passport with a 6 month validity.
Best Time: March to early October
Known For : Table Mountain Robben Island Victoria and Alfred Waterfront
Flaunting its true beauty, the capital of South Africa is well located between the high mountains and gleaming turquoise waters. The metropolitan city of Cape town displays its charm with utter sophistication and there is absolutely no word that can ever describe the timeless beauty of this magical city in South Africa. Come explore and experience the fantastic scenery, the richness and the warmth in its people and the culture.
Safety Ranking: Cape Town is moderately safe. It Cape Town is ranked 110th out of 162 of most dangerous cities. Safety here, lies in your own hands.
Entertainment: Table Mountains,Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Signal Hill and the Noon Gun, Clifton and Camps Bay Beaches, The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Affordability: Fairly expensive.
Visa Tips for Indians: Indians need a tourist visa to enter South Africa. It incurs a charge of INR 1,675. Other important documentations will be asked for during the application process.
Best Time: October to April
Tanzania has something in store for everyone. You can go on a Safari adventure to the Western and Southern Safari Parks. The major attraction in Tanzania is the wildlife here and you can indulge in watching large concentrations of rare species like hippos, crocodiles and wild dogs. A jewel in Tanzania's crown is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera which is a sight to behold. From gaming adventures to glorious beaches it has it all.
Safety Ranking: It is fairly safe to travel alone in Zanzibar.
Entertainment: Stone town, Nungwi and Kendwa beaches, Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll,The Rock
Affordability: Partly Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa on arrival is available. You need to carry along a valid passport, application form and your confirmed return ticket.
Quebec is famous for its chilly winters and cool weather all round the year. If you are thrilled by history and architecture, Quebec is just the right place for you. The provincial slogan la belle province has rightly been extended to Quebec for its deep green valleys and landscapes. You can attend the most happening carnival of Quebec called Carnaval de Quebec which has some exciting sleigh and canoe races, snow sculptures, nightlife, fireworks, and different family activities. It's a destination that always has something special to offer to its tourists.
Safety Ranking: Quebec is a safe place for solo travellers. Canada is one of the safest countries and is ranked 8th out of 162 on the safest and most dangerous countries ranking.
Entertainment: Place Royale, Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, La Citadelle de Québec, Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site, Plains of Abraham, Musée de la Civilisation.
Affordability: Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: Visa should be applied before hand before heading to the country. You need to carry along your valid passport and other necessary documents to process your Visa.
Known For : Nymphenburg Palace Marienplatz Viktualienmarkt
Munich today is the technology capital, that values quality of life over and above all other aspects. Nevertheless the Bavarian city retains a medieval charm. It's a city that guilelessly blends modernity and tradition. The chic and the fashionable co exist with Lederhosen (Leather pants), rustic beer halls and wursts.
Safety Ranking: Germany is an extremely safe country. It is ranked 14th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Munich Residenz, Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus, Frauenkirche, Asamkirche (Asam Church),Englischer Garten.
Affordability: Partly Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: You need to apply for a visa before heading to Germany which will be valid for 3 months. A Valid passport is required which should be having at least one blank page in order to be able to affix visa.
Best Time: March to May
Known For : Reichstag BrandenburgĀ Gate Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Berlin is all things exuberant and vibrant. It is extravagant, yet affordable; cosmopolitan and forward, yet steeped in rich history. The morbid days of Cold War and a city divided by the Wall are long forgotten and the reunified capital beats fast as the heart of Germany.
Safety Ranking: Berlin is one of the safest options for Solo travellers. With a rating of 86% Germany, is ranked 14th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Reichstag building, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Television Tower, Gendarmenmarkt, Charlottenburg Palace
Affordability: Partly Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: You need to apply for a visa before heading to Germany as there are no Visa on arrival options, which will be valid for 3 months. A Valid passport is required which should be having at least one blank page in order to be able to affix visa.
Best Time: May to September
Known For : Rijksmuseum Van Gogh Museum Anne Frank House
The capital city of Netherlands probably has one of the most chilled out vibes across all cities of Europe. If you're travelling to Amsterdam, rest assured, it's going to be one of your most wonderful experiences. The city has everything, from a bustling night life, to picnic parks, to some spectacular museums. You're going to find yourself spoilt for choice!
Safety Ranking: Amsterdam is ranked 14th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most. It is again a safe destination to take off solo.
Entertainment: The Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank Museum, Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark, Dam Square, Royal Palace
Affordability: Not so expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: You will need to download your Visa online and fill out the application form. Along with this, you will need to present a valid passport and evidence of your legal residence in India. The short stay visa last for 3 months only.
Best Time: March to October
Known For : Castle Hill Budapest Fisherman's Bastion St. Stephen's Basilica
Budapest, also called the 'Little Paris' of Middle Europe, is the largest city in Hungary. Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, has a diverse range of tourist attractions, from museums, galleries, churches and synagogues to ruin pubs, thermal baths and spas. Budapest has a rich culture and history which makes you want to know more about it.
Safety Ranking: Budapest is a safe city to travel solo. It is ranked 27th out of 113 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous cities.
Entertainment: Buda Castle & Castle Hill, Fisherman's Bastion, The Danube Promenade, Matthias Church, Gellért Hill, The Museum of Fine Arts
Affordability: Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: One needs to download the visa application form, fill it out and head to the embassy. You need to carry other documents and a passport valid for 6 months.
Best Time: March to May & September to November
Known For : Tivoli Gardens Amalienborg Palace Little Mermaid statue
Denmark's capital and largest city, Copenhagen is a treasure trove of food, unique architecture and culture, and scenic sights around every corner. One of the Scandinavian gems, it is connected to the Swedish city of Malmo through a long running tunnel across the Oresund strait. The Danish city is a hotspot for culture, food, nightlife and unique architecture all across Northern Europe.
Safety Ranking: Ranked as the safest, Copenhagen holds 1 out of 162 of the safest and most dangerous cities.
Entertainment: Tivoli Gardens, The Little Mermaid, Kronborg Castle, Strøget, Amalienborg Palace, The National Aquarium.
Affordability: Very Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: All Indians are to obtain a visa before heading to Denmark. A visa issued by Denmark or another Schengen country allows free travel within the Schengen area, if not stated otherwise on the visa. The maximum duration of a visa stay is 90 days.
Best Time: May to August
Known For : Piazza del Duomo Florence Duomo Florence Piazza della Signoria
Florence is the capital city of Tuscany and the Metropolitan City of Florence. This city is endowed with rich historical and cultural heritage. Located between Piedmont and the Coastal Regions of South Carolina, this is the largest city in the North-east part of South Carolina. The Arno river flows through this city. The township in Florence was initially established as a terminal for railroads. The city boasts of wonderful theatrical performances, ballet company, and many such art and heritage and simultaneously preserves the comfort of a close-knit townships with parks and streets lined with trees. The hospitable nature of the people of the South and soothing beauty makes it a must-visit location for the tourists visinting Italy.
Safety Ranking: Florence is safe but has reported large number of pick pocketing cases. With a rating of 78% Italy, is ranked 34th out of 162 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.
Entertainment: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza Duomo, Battistero di San Giovanni, Piazzale Michelangiolo, Uffizi Palace and Gallery, Piazza della Signoria and the Loggia dei Lanzi
Affordability: Costly
Visa Tips for Indians: The visa is issued for a time limit of 6 months that allows a tourist to stay in a Schengen country for up to 90 consecutive days.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Kilmainham Gaol Spire of Dublin Guinness Storehouse
The history, the food, the architecture, the stories, and of course the pubs, Dublin is always among the list of favourite cities of people who've ever been there. Being the capital, Dublin is a major global city. It caters to the requirements of all sorts of tourists and travellers, from pubs to castles, and churches to parks, there is something for everyone here.
Safety Ranking: Dublin is largely a safe city with a rating of 72.7, it is ranked 41th out of 113 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous cities.
Entertainment: Trinity College and College Green, Grafton Street, St. Stephens Green, The Little Museum of Dublin, Kildare Street Museums and Houses of Parliament, The National Gallery of Ireland.
Affordability: Fairly Expensive
Visa Tips for Indians: The tourist visa is applicable for 90 days only. You will need to fill out the visa application form and present important documents and a valid passport for sanction.
Best Time: May to September
Known For : Praca do Comercio Ajuda National Palace Tram 28 Lisbon
Portugal's hilly capital, the coastal city of Lisbon is the westernmost capital of Europe. Colourful and historic, the city is teeming with life in every corner, and every person and structure has a story to tell that will reveal secrets to the lively Portuguese culture. Lisbon's culture and history mix with the contemporary urban life and cosmopolitan nature in a unique way to produce one of the most interesting experiences across Western Europe.
Safety Ranking: Lisbon is ranked 13th out of 113 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous cities, suggesting that is a pretty safe destination.
Entertainment: Castelo de São Jorge, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos,Oceanário de Lisboa, Museu Calouste Gulbenkian,Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
Affordability: Not so expensive. Least Expensive capitals in Europe.
Visa Tips for Indians: One can apply for a tourist visa for 3 months to Portugal. If you already hold a valid Schengen visa issued by any of the other Schengen countries, you do not need to apply for a separate Portugal visa.
Best Time: March to May
These destinations for solo travellers outside India are a good place to start your adventure in a new land! What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.