Did you choose the Bohemian life, or did the Bohemian life choose you? That discussion can wait but right now, explore some exciting Bohemian travel destinations in India—for free-spirited travellers. Tag along!
India is a spiritual and mystical land that has been luring thinkers and seekers since time immemorial. The world witnessed a rise of the hippie subculture during the 1960s, in parts of Europe and America. India welcomed these free-spirited travellers with open arms.
Most Bohemian travellers visited India to seek freedom in destinations like Varanasi and Goa. Gradually, the Bohemian trail paved the path for more free-spirited travellers. Decades have passed, and these destinations continue to attract hundreds and thousands of freethinkers every year. If you want to embrace the ‘hippie-dom’ we have some excellent holiday recommendations for you.
Abound in sprawling beaches, Gokarna incorporates an enticing bohemian vibe. Gokarna is a paradise for freethinkers. Free-spirited travellers started flocking here to seek solace and respite from the thronging beaches of Goa. Gokarna is one of the best Bohemian destinations in Deccan India. Here you can enjoy a wide range of activities, from bonfire dancing to beach trekking.
If beaches don’t entice you, head to the pristine and spectacular town in the Himalayas. Kasol is Himachal Pradesh’s best-kept secret—with breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes. If you want to experience the rave culture, head to the Parvati Valley and make it your hamlet. Apart from that, you can trek up the hills, explore local cuisine in a cafe, groove to your favourite trance beats and EDM, and enliven the place.
Pushkar is widely known for its imposing cattle fair—a beloved event amongst freethinkers. This village in Rajasthan depicts a fantastic blend of free-spiritedness and spirituality. One of the best attractions includes shops selling bright and colourful bed sheets, T-shirts, bags and more.
Pushkar also houses many cafes, borrowing ideas and influence from the Bohemian culture which was widespread during the 1960s. You can also enjoy groovy jazz nights with other travellers during your stay in Pushkar.
One of the lesser-known Bohemian havens of India, Kasar Devi is a village in Uttarakhand. The Bohemian history of this place is not known to many people. Situated in the Kumaon region, near Almora, Kasar Devi has been enticing artists, seekers, philosophers and writers for several decades.
Being located on the Van Allen Belt of the earth, Kasar Devi embodies rare cosmic energies, carving out a destination for the freethinkers of India. To indulge in the free-spirited vibes of this village, backpackers and travellers typically unwind in cafes and out in the lap of nature.
The ancient city of Varanasi embodies an unparalleled spiritual charm. This enchanting city has been the epitome of paradise for solace-seeking bohemian travellers since the early years of the flower-power movement. Traces of its glorious past can be witnessed in many bohemian cafes and the revered banks of the Ganges.
Backpackers flock to Varanasi every year to engage in a liberating and spiritual experience. The beautiful ghats of Varanasi attract artists from around the world, to draw inspiration and create art, making it an ideal destination for freethinkers.
This list would be incomplete without Goa, the ultimate bohemian destination of India. The bohemian history of Goa can be traced back to the 70s when free-spirited travellers visited this tropical paradise to conclude their Asian hippie trail. In Arambol, you will find freethinkers selling handcrafted items at the local flea market.
Among backpackers, the Arambol Drum Circle is particularly famous, where bohemian travellers play musical instruments and groove to the music without a care. You may also head to Anjuna, another revered haven for free-spirited travellers in Goa, and indulge in bohemian entertainment.
Seek respite from thronging travel destinations, and head to these enchanting locations to connect with your inner self.
