As the world witnesses a noticeable increase in independent travellers, solo travel is experiencing a resurgence. According to Hilton's Annual Trends Report, 34 percent of travellers will embark on solo adventures by the end of 2025.
Topping the list of preferred solo travel destinations for 2025 is none other than India - a place that promises not just relaxation but profound personal renewal.
“India has experienced an incredible post-pandemic recovery,” notes Antoinette Turner, general manager of Flight Centre South Africa, highlighting that local tourism is expected to contribute INR 21.15 trillion to the economy in 2024 - a remarkable 21 percent increase compared to pre-pandemic times.
The Indian government is backing this growth with significant investments; INR 23.44 billion is earmarked for tourism initiatives in the 2025 fiscal year. This promises a blossoming tourism landscape for those seeking mindful and transformative experiences.
South Africans in search of healing journeys
For a country beleaguered by rising costs, job instability, and a relentless work culture, South Africans are increasingly facing a mental health crisis.
A report by the Employee Assistance Programmes Association South Africa revealed that nearly one in four employed South Africans may suffer from depression. Yet, the uptake of mental health support remains low, with only 15 to 25 percent seeking help.
Against this backdrop, the quest for something more than a holiday - something deeply restorative - has emerged.
Turner explains, “More than ever, South Africans need rest - not just the kind that comes from a weekend off or an all-inclusive resort. We need spiritual rest.”
But what does this spiritual rest entail? It is a state of inner peace, a chance to disconnect from external pressures and to reconnect with oneself. Spiritual rest encompasses:
- Finding solace from emotional burnout.
- Engaging in practices like meditation and mindfulness.
- Spending time in nature and sacred spaces.
Through these avenues, India emerges as an alluring destination for solo travellers seeking profound mindfulness experiences.
Why India outshines Bali and Thailand
For years, Bali and Thailand have been favoured among South Africans seeking wellness escapes. From beachfront yoga retreats in Ubud to budget-friendly Thai massage resorts, these countries have cultivated a strong reputation.
However, many now recognise that India offers a spiritual depth unparalleled by other destinations. The country is the birthplace of yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda, showcasing authentic practices across various regions.
For South Africans contemplating a solo voyage, practical elements like flights, visas, and budget play pivotal roles.
With return flights from Johannesburg starting as low as R12 766 for an October 2025 getaway, India is the most affordable option compared to Thailand (R14 959) and Bali (R15 715).
While none of these destinations feature direct flights from South Africa, India presents an accessible pathway with favourable stopovers in transit hubs like Dubai and Doha.
Visa requirements further enhance India's appeal. Though Thailand permits a 60-day visa-free entry, India’s streamlined e-visa system makes planning effortless - and it’s free. Conversely, Bali mandates a visa on arrival, adding to the travel complexity.
Nonetheless, India's true strength lies in its commitment to genuine spiritual and wellness experiences.
Renowned for their authentic Ayurveda practices, centres in Kerala invite visitors to engage in advanced detox and rejuvenation programmes steeped in tradition. The presence of centuries-old ashrams and Buddhist monasteries allows travellers to partake in intensive meditation sessions, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with one’s inner self.
Besides its flights and visa policies, India stands out for its affordability. Daily expenses, including accommodation, food, and transport, are substantially lower than in similar destinations.
While accommodation in India starts from around R845 a night and local meals can be as inexpensive as R50, the same experience in Thailand or Bali typically incurs a 20 to 40 percent premium. For extended stays, India allows travellers to maximise their budget significantly.
For South Africans grappling with the weight of daily stress, the allure of travel represents not just an escape but a path toward evolution.
While Bali and Thailand promise relaxation, India possesses the unique ability to offer journeys that reorder one's understanding of self and spirituality.
Whether through meditating in the Himalayas, experiencing Ayurveda in Kerala, or rediscovering oneself in the soul-stirring chaos of Varanasi, India transforms more than itineraries - it transforms lives.