A journey through the Himalayas, the Ganga, silence, courage and self-discovery.
“I had planned to celebrate my 40th birthday in Georgia. Flights, destinations and itineraries were already running through my mind. But I guess Mahadev had different plans for me. Instead of taking me to another country, He called me to Rishikesh—the land of the Ganga, the Himalayas, yoga and spirituality. Looking back today, I can confidently say I couldn’t have chosen a better place to celebrate this new chapter of my life.”
Part 1 – When Mahadev Changed My Plans
What made the decision even more special was that I came across a 7-day wellness retreat at Amanthrit. It combined everything I had been looking for—fitness, yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, nature, and peace.
The journey actually began long before I boarded the train.
It began with endless research. I spent hours looking for the perfect wellness retreat in Rishikesh before finally discovering Amanthrit. My first interaction was with Mahesh, whose patience, enthusiasm, and confidence convinced me to give the retreat a chance. But being a solo female traveller, I wasn’t ready to trust everything immediately. I researched the retreat thoroughly. I read reviews. I checked Google Maps. I searched for nearby places. I compared transport options. I made several phone calls. I even requested a video call with Aman, the founder of the retreat, before making my final payment. Only after satisfying myself that everything was genuine did I finally book my journey.
Then began the fun part. Planning!
I started making lists. Lots of lists. Which train should I take from Ujjain? How would I travel from Delhi to Rishikesh? Should I take a bus or a train? Would the Delhi Metro be difficult to understand? What should I pack? Which cafés should I visit? Which places should I explore during my free time? Where would I shop? Could I finally experience a proper solo trip that I had been dreaming about for years? My notebook slowly transformed into a travel planner filled with checklists, ideas, maps, and excitement.
Finally…
The day arrived. I boarded my train from Ujjain with a suitcase, a backpack, and a heart full of excitement. As the train slowly left the platform, it suddenly struck me… This was happening. For the first time in my life… I was travelling completely alone. Surprisingly, I wasn’t scared anymore. I was excited.
When I reached Amanthrit : https://amantrhit.com/, I received the warmest welcome. A smiling team greeted me. My room was cosy and beautifully prepared. Waiting for me was a handwritten welcome note on parchment paper—a small gesture that immediately made me feel at home. I was then introduced to my schedule for the next seven days. To my delight, the program had been thoughtfully designed with enough free time for guests to explore Rishikesh as well. That made me even happier. Because along with experiencing the retreat…I also wanted to experience the soul of Rishikesh. Little did I know that over the next seven days, this city would slowly find its way into my heart.
Part 2 – Falling in Love with Rishikesh
Where the Ganga Whispered My Name!
I experienced what I hadn’t experienced in a long time. There was no rush. No office to reach. No kids to look after. No deadlines waiting. No household responsibilities calling my name. Just the sound of birds, the cool mountain breeze, and an entire city waiting to be explored! After completing the morning activities at the retreat, I set out for my very first exploration of Rishikesh.
The Secret Waterfall
My journey began with the Secret Waterfall, tucked away amidst nature. The walk itself was beautiful. The further I walked, the more the noise of the city faded away, replaced by the soothing sound of flowing water. When I finally reached the waterfall, it felt like discovering a hidden treasure. People were sitting quietly on the rocks, some dipping their feet into the cool water, while others simply admired the beauty around them. I found myself doing exactly the same.
Lakshman Jhula – More Than Just a Bridge
From the waterfall, I made my way towards the famous Lakshman Jhula area. The narrow streets were lined with colourful cafés, little bookstores, spiritual shops selling rudraksha malas and singing bowls, tiny boutiques displaying handcrafted clothes and jewellery, and travellers from every corner of the world.
Meeting Fellow Travellers
One of the unexpected joys of travelling alone is that you’re far more open to conversations. Had I been travelling with family or friends, I probably wouldn’t have interacted much with strangers. But solo travel changes you. That evening, I met a few young travellers. I admired their carefree spirit. Many of them were travelling on surprisingly small budgets, yet they carried a richness that money couldn’t buy—experiences. That evening taught me that travelling isn’t measured by how much you spend. It’s measured by how much you experience.
Bhootnath Temple – Where Silence Spoke
The following day, I visited Bhootnath Temple, one of the places I had been looking forward to the most. According to local belief, this is where Lord Shiva’s baraat—accompanied by bhoots and ganas—rested on its way to marry Goddess Sati. The temple itself is spread across seven floors. As I climbed higher, each floor offered a different perspective—not only of the temple but of Rishikesh itself. When I finally reached the top, I stood still. The panoramic view was breathtaking. The Ganga gracefully winding through the city… The lush green hills… The colourful buildings… Everything looked peaceful from above. While exploring the temple, I came across a Shivling on one of the terraces. For reasons I cannot explain, I felt as though it was inviting me to sit there. I quietly settled down before it and began my Shiv Sadhana. Minutes passed. Or perhaps much longer. I had completely lost track of time. There are moments in life that cannot be explained logically. They can only be experienced. For me, that was one such moment.
The Road to Kunjapuri
Inspired by the beautiful weather, I decided to begin my journey towards Kunjapuri Temple. Soon I realised it was much farther than I had imagined. Since I had to return in time for lunch and my sessions at the retreat, I eventually turned back. Did I feel disappointed? Not at all. Because sometimes the destination isn’t the only reward. The road itself was magical. The winding mountain route, the cool breeze, the peaceful surroundings… As I walked, I couldn’t help imagining the rishis who had meditated in these forests. This region is called Tapovan for a reason. One can almost feel the spiritual energy in the air. I silently promised myself… “I’ll return one day and complete this journey.”
An Evening in the Lap of Maa Ganga
One evening, after finishing my dinner early, I walked to Sai Ghat. I slowly walked down to the last step, almost touching the flowing Ganga. Then I simply sat there. For hours. There was no agenda. No destination. No hurry. Just me… …and Maa Ganga. I watched the tiny diyas floating gently over the water. I listened to the rhythmic sound of the waves. People around me folded their hands in prayer, each carrying their own hopes, worries and dreams. Like a little child sitting in her mother’s lap, I too offered my prayers—for myself, for my children, for my family, my friends, and for everyone I hold close to my heart. Without even realising it, I found myself chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” again and again. I sang whatever bhajans came to my heart, forgetting that people were sitting around me. For once… I wasn’t worried about how I sounded. I was simply being myself. And perhaps that is what freedom truly feels like.
A Musical Surprise
Just when I thought the evening couldn’t become any more beautiful, something unexpected happened. As I walked along the ghats, I heard the sound of guitars and singing. Curious, I followed the music. A group of young musicians had gathered for an informal jam session beside the Ganga. Without overthinking, I joined them. For the next couple of hours, we sang, laughed and simply enjoyed the music under the open sky. The lead singer had an incredible voice, and the entire atmosphere felt magical. The cool breeze… The flowing Ganga… Music echoing through the night… Strangers smiling like old friends… It was one of those moments that no itinerary can ever promise. It simply happens. And when it does, it becomes a memory for life.
The Bhajan Jamming
One evening, while strolling through the lively streets of Rishikesh, I came across a beautiful Bhajan Jamming session. It wasn’t a formal devotional gathering but a joyful musical celebration where people from different parts of the world sang bhajans together with guitars, cajóns, and other instruments. Before I knew it, I was singing, clapping, and dancing along with complete strangers. It didn’t matter that we spoke different languages; music and devotion connected us instantly. That evening reminded me that spirituality doesn’t always have to be quiet and solemn—sometimes, it can be filled with laughter, rhythm, and carefree dancing. It was one of those magical, unplanned moments that made my solo journey even more memorable.
Nose Piercing
One of the most memorable moments of my trip was finally getting my nose pierced. It might sound like a small thing, but for me, it meant much more. I had wanted to get it done for years and had even tried three times in Ujjain, but each attempt had failed. Somehow, it was destined to happen in Rishikesh. Inspired by the confidence and positivity I was discovering within myself, I finally gathered the courage to do it. When I looked in the mirror afterwards, I couldn’t stop smiling.
The Silence of Vashisht Gufa
Nestled on the banks of the Ganga lies a place where time almost seems to stand still. According to Hindu tradition, Sage Vashisht—one of the revered Saptarishis—performed deep meditation here. The moment I entered the cave, I instinctively lowered my voice. Not because anyone asked me to… But because silence itself felt sacred there. The cave was small. Dark. Cool. Simple. At the centre stood a Shivling. People quietly sat with their eyes closed. Nobody spoke. Nobody clicked photographs. Nobody was in a hurry. I, too, found a small place to sit. Closed my eyes. And simply breathed. There was something incredibly calming about that darkness. It wasn’t empty. It was peaceful. Nearby, I also visited the small cave where Arundhati, the wife of Sage Vashisht, is believed to have meditated.
The Most Beautiful View
After coming out of the cave, I walked towards the rocky banks of the Ganga. And there… I found one of the most beautiful spots of my entire journey. Huge rocks stretched along the riverbank. The crystal-clear water flowed gently around them. The Himalayas stood quietly in the distance, with small, beautiful houses built in them. There was a jhoola-like bridge, which you see lots of in Rishikesh. I sat on one of the rocks. And dipped my feet into the icy waters of the Maa Ganga. I did absolutely nothing. No phone. No camera. No conversation. I simply watched the river flow. Sometimes we travel thousands of kilometres searching for happiness. That afternoon taught me that happiness can simply be sitting quietly beside a river, doing nothing at all. Honestly, the place was so serene, part of me wanted to remain there forever.
Part 3 – A Goodbye That Didn't Feel Like Goodbye
The next morning arrived much sooner than I wanted. After breakfast, it was finally time to pack my bags. Before leaving, the team performed a small tilak and aarti. It was such a simple gesture. Yet it touched my heart deeply. One by one, I thanked everyone who had made my stay so memorable. Over seven days, they had stopped feeling like staff members. They had become family. From the management team to the therapists, from the kitchen staff who lovingly prepared nourishing satvic meals to everyone who greeted me with warm smiles each day—every single person had contributed to making my stay comfortable and memorable. What impressed me most wasn’t just the wellness program. It was the genuine care with which everything was done. I never once felt like I was staying at a retreat. I felt as though I had come home.
The Adventure Wasn’t Over Yet
Just when I thought the journey had ended… Life decided to add one more adventure. Delhi. And… My very first Metro ride. During the week, I had become much more confident. So naturally, I believed navigating the Metro would now be easy. With complete confidence, I boarded a metro. Only to realise a few moments later… It wasn’t the right one! For a second, I stood there wondering, “Arre… ye toh mera route hi nahi hai!” Instead of panicking, I smiled. And with the help of kind, stranger travellers’ advice, I got down at the next station. Within minutes, I was back on track.
It struck me then… Throughout this trip, I met so many helpful people. Whenever I was confused… Someone appeared. Whenever I needed directions… Someone guided me. Whenever I hesitated… Someone encouraged me. Perhaps the world isn’t as scary as we sometimes imagine.
Mission Accomplished
After a bit of running with my luggage through New Delhi Railway Station… A little huffing… A little puffing… I finally reached my coach. Placed my suitcase safely beneath the seat. Sat down. Took a deep breath. And smiled. I had done it. My very first solo trip. Without any major mishaps. Without fear stopping me. Without turning back. As the train slowly left Delhi behind, I rested my head against the window and replayed the past week in my mind.
Coming Home
When I finally reached Ujjain, my family welcomed me with warm hugs and endless questions. “How was it?” “What did you do?” “Did you enjoy travelling alone?” I couldn’t stop talking. I had stories for everyone. About the mountains. The cafés. The Ganga. The retreat. The Metro. The wrong metro. The music. The caves. The shopping. Every memory brought another smile. And somewhere during those conversations, I realised something. This trip wasn’t about escaping my routine. It wasn’t about ticking places off a bucket list. It wasn’t even about celebrating my 40th birthday. It was about discovering a version of myself that had been waiting patiently beneath years of responsibilities.
Final Thoughts
People often ask me,
“Wasn’t travelling alone scary?”
Honestly…
Yes.
Before leaving.
After I started the journey…
Not even once.
Instead, I discovered something far more beautiful than I had expected.
I discovered confidence.
I discovered peace.
I discovered that I enjoy my own company.
I discovered that strangers can become friends.
I discovered that silence can heal.
I discovered that slowing down is sometimes the most productive thing we can do.
Most importantly…
I discovered that solo travel isn’t about being alone.
It’s about meeting yourself.
When I boarded my train from Ujjain, I thought I was travelling to Rishikesh.
Today, I realise…
I wasn’t travelling to Rishikesh at all.
I was travelling back to myself.
I returned with the same suitcase I had carried from home, but a very different heart.
More confident.
More courageous.
More grateful.
More connected to nature.
More focused on my dreams.
And much more in love with life.
Looking back today, I smile and silently thank Mahadev.
Because I had planned a birthday trip to Georgia…
But He gifted me a journey that changed my life.
Travel Tips from My Experience
- Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather. The monsoon is equally beautiful if you enjoy lush greenery and don’t mind the occasional rain.
- Stay for at least 6–7 days to truly experience Rishikesh instead of rushing through it.
- Walk whenever possible—some of the city’s best experiences are found in its narrow lanes and riverside paths.
- Don’t miss the Ganga Aarti and spend at least one peaceful evening simply sitting by the Ganga.
- Visit Vashisht Gufa if you’re looking for a truly serene and spiritual experience.
- Solo travellers: I found Rishikesh to be one of the safest places I’ve visited, though basic travel precautions are always advisable.
- Keep one evening unplanned—sometimes the most magical experiences are the ones you never expected.
A journey through the Himalayas, the Ganga, silence, courage and self-discovery.
“I had planned to celebrate my 40th birthday in Georgia. Flights, destinations and itineraries were already running through my mind. But I guess Mahadev had different plans for me. Instead of taking me to another country, He called me to Rishikesh—the land of the Ganga, the Himalayas, yoga and spirituality. Looking back today, I can confidently say I couldn’t have chosen a better place to celebrate this new chapter of my life.”
Part 1 – When Mahadev Changed My Plans
What made the decision even more special was that I came across a 7-day wellness retreat at Amanthrit. It combined everything I had been looking for—fitness, yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, nature, and peace.
The journey actually began long before I boarded the train.
It began with endless research. I spent hours looking for the perfect wellness retreat in Rishikesh before finally discovering Amanthrit. My first interaction was with Mahesh, whose patience, enthusiasm, and confidence convinced me to give the retreat a chance. But being a solo female traveller, I wasn’t ready to trust everything immediately. I researched the retreat thoroughly. I read reviews. I checked Google Maps. I searched for nearby places. I compared transport options. I made several phone calls. I even requested a video call with Aman, the founder of the retreat, before making my final payment. Only after satisfying myself that everything was genuine did I finally book my journey.
Then began the fun part. Planning!
I started making lists. Lots of lists. Which train should I take from Ujjain? How would I travel from Delhi to Rishikesh? Should I take a bus or a train? Would the Delhi Metro be difficult to understand? What should I pack? Which cafés should I visit? Which places should I explore during my free time? Where would I shop? Could I finally experience a proper solo trip that I had been dreaming about for years? My notebook slowly transformed into a travel planner filled with checklists, ideas, maps, and excitement.
Finally…
The day arrived. I boarded my train from Ujjain with a suitcase, a backpack, and a heart full of excitement. As the train slowly left the platform, it suddenly struck me… This was happening. For the first time in my life… I was travelling completely alone. Surprisingly, I wasn’t scared anymore. I was excited.
When I reached Amanthrit, I received the warmest welcome. A smiling team greeted me. My room was cosy and beautifully prepared. Waiting for me was a handwritten welcome note on parchment paper—a small gesture that immediately made me feel at home. I was then introduced to my schedule for the next seven days. To my delight, the program had been thoughtfully designed with enough free time for guests to explore Rishikesh as well. That made me even happier. Because along with experiencing the retreat…I also wanted to experience the soul of Rishikesh. Little did I know that over the next seven days, this city would slowly find its way into my heart.
Part 2 – Falling in Love with Rishikesh
Where the Ganga Whispered My Name!
I experienced what I hadn’t experienced in a long time. There was no rush. No office to reach. No kids to look after. No deadlines waiting. No household responsibilities calling my name. Just the sound of birds, the cool mountain breeze, and an entire city waiting to be explored! After completing the morning activities at the retreat, I set out for my very first exploration of Rishikesh.
The Secret Waterfall
My journey began with the Secret Waterfall, tucked away amidst nature. The walk itself was beautiful. The further I walked, the more the noise of the city faded away, replaced by the soothing sound of flowing water. When I finally reached the waterfall, it felt like discovering a hidden treasure. People were sitting quietly on the rocks, some dipping their feet into the cool water, while others simply admired the beauty around them. I found myself doing exactly the same.
Lakshman Jhula – More Than Just a Bridge
From the waterfall, I made my way towards the famous Lakshman Jhula area. The narrow streets were lined with colourful cafés, little bookstores, spiritual shops selling rudraksha malas and singing bowls, tiny boutiques displaying handcrafted clothes and jewellery, and travellers from every corner of the world.
Meeting Fellow Travellers
One of the unexpected joys of travelling alone is that you’re far more open to conversations. Had I been travelling with family or friends, I probably wouldn’t have interacted much with strangers. But solo travel changes you. That evening, I met a few young travellers. I admired their carefree spirit. Many of them were travelling on surprisingly small budgets, yet they carried a richness that money couldn’t buy—experiences. That evening taught me that travelling isn’t measured by how much you spend. It’s measured by how much you experience.
Bhootnath Temple – Where Silence Spoke
The following day, I visited Bhootnath Temple, one of the places I had been looking forward to the most. According to local belief, this is where Lord Shiva’s baraat—accompanied by bhoots and ganas—rested on its way to marry Goddess Sati. The temple itself is spread across seven floors. As I climbed higher, each floor offered a different perspective—not only of the temple but of Rishikesh itself. When I finally reached the top, I stood still. The panoramic view was breathtaking. The Ganga gracefully winding through the city… The lush green hills… The colourful buildings… Everything looked peaceful from above. While exploring the temple, I came across a Shivling on one of the terraces. For reasons I cannot explain, I felt as though it was inviting me to sit there. I quietly settled down before it and began my Shiv Sadhana. Minutes passed. Or perhaps much longer. I had completely lost track of time. There are moments in life that cannot be explained logically. They can only be experienced. For me, that was one such moment.
The Road to Kunjapuri
Inspired by the beautiful weather, I decided to begin my journey towards Kunjapuri Temple. Soon I realised it was much farther than I had imagined. Since I had to return in time for lunch and my sessions at the retreat, I eventually turned back. Did I feel disappointed? Not at all. Because sometimes the destination isn’t the only reward. The road itself was magical. The winding mountain route, the cool breeze, the peaceful surroundings… As I walked, I couldn’t help imagining the rishis who had meditated in these forests. This region is called Tapovan for a reason. One can almost feel the spiritual energy in the air. I silently promised myself… “I’ll return one day and complete this journey.”
An Evening in the Lap of Maa Ganga
One evening, after finishing my dinner early, I walked to Sai Ghat. I slowly walked down to the last step, almost touching the flowing Ganga. Then I simply sat there. For hours. There was no agenda. No destination. No hurry. Just me… …and Maa Ganga. I watched the tiny diyas floating gently over the water. I listened to the rhythmic sound of the waves. People around me folded their hands in prayer, each carrying their own hopes, worries and dreams. Like a little child sitting in her mother’s lap, I too offered my prayers—for myself, for my children, for my family, my friends, and for everyone I hold close to my heart. Without even realising it, I found myself chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” again and again. I sang whatever bhajans came to my heart, forgetting that people were sitting around me. For once… I wasn’t worried about how I sounded. I was simply being myself. And perhaps that is what freedom truly feels like.
A Musical Surprise
Just when I thought the evening couldn’t become any more beautiful, something unexpected happened. As I walked along the ghats, I heard the sound of guitars and singing. Curious, I followed the music. A group of young musicians had gathered for an informal jam session beside the Ganga. Without overthinking, I joined them. For the next couple of hours, we sang, laughed and simply enjoyed the music under the open sky. The lead singer had an incredible voice, and the entire atmosphere felt magical. The cool breeze… The flowing Ganga… Music echoing through the night… Strangers smiling like old friends… It was one of those moments that no itinerary can ever promise. It simply happens. And when it does, it becomes a memory for life.
The Bhajan Jamming
One evening, while strolling through the lively streets of Rishikesh, I came across a beautiful Bhajan Jamming session. It wasn’t a formal devotional gathering but a joyful musical celebration where people from different parts of the world sang bhajans together with guitars, cajóns, and other instruments. Before I knew it, I was singing, clapping, and dancing along with complete strangers. It didn’t matter that we spoke different languages; music and devotion connected us instantly. That evening reminded me that spirituality doesn’t always have to be quiet and solemn—sometimes, it can be filled with laughter, rhythm, and carefree dancing. It was one of those magical, unplanned moments that made my solo journey even more memorable.
Nose Piercing
One of the most memorable moments of my trip was finally getting my nose pierced. It might sound like a small thing, but for me, it meant much more. I had wanted to get it done for years and had even tried three times in Ujjain, but each attempt had failed. Somehow, it was destined to happen in Rishikesh. Inspired by the confidence and positivity I was discovering within myself, I finally gathered the courage to do it. When I looked in the mirror afterwards, I couldn’t stop smiling.
The Silence of Vashisht Gufa
Nestled on the banks of the Ganga lies a place where time almost seems to stand still. According to Hindu tradition, Sage Vashisht—one of the revered Saptarishis—performed deep meditation here. The moment I entered the cave, I instinctively lowered my voice. Not because anyone asked me to… But because silence itself felt sacred there. The cave was small. Dark. Cool. Simple. At the centre stood a Shivling. People quietly sat with their eyes closed. Nobody spoke. Nobody clicked photographs. Nobody was in a hurry. I, too, found a small place to sit. Closed my eyes. And simply breathed. There was something incredibly calming about that darkness. It wasn’t empty. It was peaceful. Nearby, I also visited the small cave where Arundhati, the wife of Sage Vashisht, is believed to have meditated.
The Most Beautiful View
After coming out of the cave, I walked towards the rocky banks of the Ganga. And there… I found one of the most beautiful spots of my entire journey. Huge rocks stretched along the riverbank. The crystal-clear water flowed gently around them. The Himalayas stood quietly in the distance, with small, beautiful houses built in them. There was a jhoola-like bridge, which you see lots of in Rishikesh. I sat on one of the rocks. And dipped my feet into the icy waters of the Maa Ganga. I did absolutely nothing. No phone. No camera. No conversation. I simply watched the river flow. Sometimes we travel thousands of kilometres searching for happiness. That afternoon taught me that happiness can simply be sitting quietly beside a river, doing nothing at all. Honestly, the place was so serene, part of me wanted to remain there forever.
Part 3 – A Goodbye That Didn't Feel Like Goodbye
The next morning arrived much sooner than I wanted. After breakfast, it was finally time to pack my bags. Before leaving, the team performed a small tilak and aarti. It was such a simple gesture. Yet it touched my heart deeply. One by one, I thanked everyone who had made my stay so memorable. Over seven days, they had stopped feeling like staff members. They had become family. From the management team to the therapists, from the kitchen staff who lovingly prepared nourishing satvic meals to everyone who greeted me with warm smiles each day—every single person had contributed to making my stay comfortable and memorable. What impressed me most wasn’t just the wellness program. It was the genuine care with which everything was done. I never once felt like I was staying at a retreat. I felt as though I had come home.
The Adventure Wasn’t Over Yet
Just when I thought the journey had ended… Life decided to add one more adventure. Delhi. And… My very first Metro ride. During the week, I had become much more confident. So naturally, I believed navigating the Metro would now be easy. With complete confidence, I boarded a metro. Only to realise a few moments later… It wasn’t the right one! For a second, I stood there wondering, “Arre… ye toh mera route hi nahi hai!” Instead of panicking, I smiled. And with the help of kind, stranger travellers’ advice, I got down at the next station. Within minutes, I was back on track.
It struck me then… Throughout this trip, I met so many helpful people. Whenever I was confused… Someone appeared. Whenever I needed directions… Someone guided me. Whenever I hesitated… Someone encouraged me. Perhaps the world isn’t as scary as we sometimes imagine.
Mission Accomplished
After a bit of running with my luggage through New Delhi Railway Station… A little huffing… A little puffing… I finally reached my coach. Placed my suitcase safely beneath the seat. Sat down. Took a deep breath. And smiled. I had done it. My very first solo trip. Without any major mishaps. Without fear stopping me. Without turning back. As the train slowly left Delhi behind, I rested my head against the window and replayed the past week in my mind.
Coming Home
When I finally reached Ujjain, my family welcomed me with warm hugs and endless questions. “How was it?” “What did you do?” “Did you enjoy travelling alone?” I couldn’t stop talking. I had stories for everyone. About the mountains. The cafés. The Ganga. The retreat. The Metro. The wrong metro. The music. The caves. The shopping. Every memory brought another smile. And somewhere during those conversations, I realised something. This trip wasn’t about escaping my routine. It wasn’t about ticking places off a bucket list. It wasn’t even about celebrating my 40th birthday. It was about discovering a version of myself that had been waiting patiently beneath years of responsibilities.
Final Thoughts
People often ask me,
“Wasn’t travelling alone scary?”
Honestly…
Yes.
Before leaving.
After I started the journey…
Not even once.
Instead, I discovered something far more beautiful than I had expected.
I discovered confidence.
I discovered peace.
I discovered that I enjoy my own company.
I discovered that strangers can become friends.
I discovered that silence can heal.
I discovered that slowing down is sometimes the most productive thing we can do.
Most importantly…
I discovered that solo travel isn’t about being alone.
It’s about meeting yourself.
When I boarded my train from Ujjain, I thought I was travelling to Rishikesh.
Today, I realise…
I wasn’t travelling to Rishikesh at all.
I was travelling back to myself.
I returned with the same suitcase I had carried from home, but a very different heart.
More confident.
More courageous.
More grateful.
More connected to nature.
More focused on my dreams.
And much more in love with life.
Looking back today, I smile and silently thank Mahadev.
Because I had planned a birthday trip to Georgia…
But He gifted me a journey that changed my life.
Travel Tips from My Experience
- Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather. The monsoon is equally beautiful if you enjoy lush greenery and don’t mind the occasional rain.
- Stay for at least 6–7 days to truly experience Rishikesh instead of rushing through it.
- Walk whenever possible—some of the city’s best experiences are found in its narrow lanes and riverside paths.
- Don’t miss the Ganga Aarti and spend at least one peaceful evening simply sitting by the Ganga.
- Visit Vashisht Gufa if you’re looking for a truly serene and spiritual experience.
- Solo travellers: I found Rishikesh to be one of the safest places I’ve visited, though basic travel precautions are always advisable.
- Keep one evening unplanned—sometimes the most magical experiences are the ones you never expected.
