At 18, I set on my first solo trip to Pune. Fast forward to today, I’ve covered various states and innumerable places across India. I’ve enjoyed traveling since childhood but it was only when I became a solivagant that I developed an innate passion for travel. I fell in love with the wilderness, crystal clear beaches, lakes, rare cuisines and people whom I met. Wandering is true love, pure bliss and immense happiness. It is this passion that’s brought me here, to this desk to write about my experiences and pen down my thoughts.
Fun Fact
- Mysore is one of the 1st planned cities in Asia and hosts the oldest zoo in India.
- Disconnected by rail, the nearest railway station to Wayanad is Kozhikode, which is almost 110 kms away.
Travel tips
- Always carry a bottle of water.
- Dress modestly.
- Hop onto public transport to save a few bucks.
- Stay at a backpackers’ hostel if you’re traveling solo.
- Don’t stay out too late. Dangers come unannounced.
Beginning of the trip
Somewhere in mid-May 2019, I set off on my solo journey to Mysore and then, Wayanad. Life had been constantly bogging me down and thus, I decided to take this trip, to re-discover things, to fall in love with myself and my dreams. As the train chugged, I reached Mysore with a backpack full of passion. I stepped down from the train and headed straight to Zostel. After a few days, I travelled to Wayanad, about which I’ll elaborate later on.
About the trip
Who says Southern India isn’t fun? In 2019, I went to the Mysore Palace, the royal residence of the Wodeyars. From the chambers to the show pieces, from the spacious arena outside the palace to the shimmering lights in the evening, Mysore Palace is a delight. Saint Philomena’s Church is a rare gem hidden in Mysore. Apart from this, the renowned author R.K. Narayan’s house-turned-museum is located in Yadavagiri. From yummy jalebi rabdi to finding hostel mates, waking up early to catch the sunrise to sleeping at 4 a.m. I’m very fond of each moment spent in Mysore.
I traveled from Mysore to Wayanad after a couple of days and guess what, I explored Sulthan Batthery on my way. Public transport is the best means to commute. Exploring Edakkal Caves and Wayanad Heritage Museum was a pleasure. Apart from that, I visited Karapuzha Dam and Public Aquarium. It was truly a great experience to have been there and lived in that moment.
Where can one find the best food?
Amidst the clean lanes of Mysore and the lush-green scenery of Wayanad, I came across the best places for breakfast, snacks and dinner. Let’s begin with Mysore and then move onto Wayanad.
South Indian cuisine isn’t complete without dosa, idli and kaapi. And, you must try these when in South India.
The erstwhile Mysore hosts a treasure of the cuisine. Hog on some Butter Masala Dosa, Kaapi ( Coffee) and steaming idlis paired with chutney and sambar at Guru Darshini, Dosa Palace in Valmiki Road area. Craving for some sweet meat? Guru Sweet Mart is the go-to option for Mysore Pak, a sweet treat traditionally prepared from Gram Flour. There are other local food joints you can explore for amazing food and snacks.
Moving onto Wayanad, you’re spoilt for choice with an extensive spread of food. I found one such gem near Kalpetta- 1980s The Nostalgic Restaurant. Paired with old-school ambience and good food, there are various choices of non-vegetarian food here. Chicken Ghee Roast, Prawns and piping hot lemon tea to set the mood are essentials.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Wayanad during Ramadan, you can relish Iftaari at someone’s home. I was invited to eat Kheema Samosas, Elaneer Sharbath and more despite language barriers.
Indeed, it’s the heart that feeds the soul.
Best stay?
Traveling solo isn’t all fun and frolic. It’s also about finding the right, safe accommodation. Here’s a list of places you can stay peacefully in Mysore and Wayanad.
Fun Stay in Mysore
- Zostel Mysore
2639, 1, Valmiki Rd, Vani Vilas Mohalla, Mysuru, Karnataka 570002 - Roambay
582, Dewan’s Road, near Double Tank ,Lakshmipuram, Mysuru, Karnataka 570004
Cozy homestay nestled in hilly Wayanad
- The Summer Villa Homestay
Mahathma Nagar, Mariammen Temple road, Kalpetta, Kerala 673212 - Sundara Mahal Homestay
NH766, near Wayanad Weigh Bridge, Madiyur, Wayanad, Kerala, 673121
The End or a New Beginning?
On my way back to Mumbai, I pledged to hop onto public buses. I decided to open up to strangers and wanderers who loved exploring new destinations and trek on undiscovered paths. Yes, I’m a solivagant and this journey of mine hasn’t been easy. It’s been a wonderful experience so far and I want to have more of this.
About the Traveller
Urvi Gupta is an adventurous spirit who decided to go out and explore the beautiful world. A solo traveller since 18, Urvi shares one of her many experiences and insights from her Wanderlust tales.
