Hippie culture was almost taboo in India long ago, but with time, it has changed considerably. Hippies actually don’t give a damn about what you think of them and they are constantly seen celebrating life without a care in the world. If you’re tired with the constant drill of your life or if you want to just travel and explore India, there are various hippie locations in India that allow you to just chill and have a fun filled a laid-back vacation.
- Manali - Hippie Paradise
Manali should be on top of the list for any hippie because this little hill station even smells like a hippie’s pocket, thanks to the “pot” that’s grown in abundance there. Located in the mountains of pleasant Himachal Pradesh, Manali is a visual treat for tourists as well as hippies. You can actually see people leading a life of abandon there since it’s a laid-back, lazy, sweet place. Cafes and eateries are frequently visited by stoned hippies and tourists. Known as the hippie paradise in the mighty Himalayas, Manali is nature at its best. However, if you don’t want to visit Manali which could seem a little commercialized, you can always visit Old Manali that is even more fantastic!
- Goa - Best Hippie Destination
It’s no secret that Goa is one among the top hippie destinations in India. Whether you want to lose yourself in a trance, house or psychedelic music, Goa offers everything and there’s no dearth of hippies here. It’s no longer a surprise to see thousands of hippies settling down in Goa forever, simply because they can’t get enough of the sand and sun. There are various beaches that aren’t disturbed and you can always rent a beach shack and simply doze off under the trees.
- Gokarna - Nirvana Haven
Located in Karnataka, Gokarna is known for its famous Mahabaleshwara Temple. However, Gokarna is not only about history and religion. In fact, it’s all about miles of unperturbed, pristine beaches and spiritual discovery. Famous beaches include Om (beach shaped like the Hindu Om figure), Paradise and Kudle. Not only are they known for its religious nature, but if you want to get to “nirvana”, Gokarna is a great option. You understand what we are talking about, right? Most people worship Lord Shiva and you will meet loads of hippies who trip in that culture. Get ready for trance music that makes you forget all worries in life.
- Hampi - Hippie Hinterland
Monuments including Virupaksha Temple, Old Palace, Anegundi Fort, Royal Enclosures and Queen’s bath have contributed to Hampi being on the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. But don’t let this small village fool you and don’ be surprised when you see hippies dancing in this mysterious village that is almost destroyed. There’s something about Hampi that can’t be described in words. You will simply have to visit it to believe it. Whether you need “special drinks” or “special smokes”, Hampi has it all for you.
- Varkala - Hippie Haven
Imagine sitting on a cliff that is surrounded by a spectacular beach with huge palm trees in the background. Now imagine thumping trance music. That’s what Varkala is all about. You can just close your eyes and it’s guaranteed that you will drift away, lost in thoughts. Located in Kerala, Varkala is a small town that’s also known as the “Hippy Haven”. Though a lot of tourists now visit the place every year, it still doesn’t seem all that crowded. Visit the small cafes, laze around and lead a hippie lifestyle in Varkala, at least until you’re forced to return back to your city and resume with your hectic schedule.
- Kasol - Hippie Trails
If you see pot-smoking babas (religious people) and amazing food at a cheap price, you have arrived at Kasol. Located on the banks of the gorgeous Parvati River, Kasol serves as a perfect base for trekkers who plan trips instantaneously. The accommodation is considerably cheap and the finger-licking food has drawn a lot of attention to this hippie land. You will also see signboards in Hebrew signifying the large number of hippies from Israel that frequent this place. You will forget beaches once you visit Kasol because you will not be able to forget the mesmerizing mountains that are set as backdrops. To get a sense of what Kasol is all about, you must visit the markets that sell almost anything a trekker needs.
- Kodaikanal - Hippie Solitude
Located in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is a cool hill station that beckons travelers from all over the world. Known more as a hill station that is appropriate for families, Kodaikanal is perfect for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle bustle of a city. But, you must visit Vattakanal that is very close to Kodaikanal. Vattakanal is also known as “Vatta” and “Little Israel” by the locals. Need we say anything more? It’s evident that it is inhabited by hippies to a large extent. Rave parties with people dancing all through the night are common in Vattakanal. Now, whenever you want to hang out in a place that isn’t really well known and isn’t even overcrowded, you know where to go!
- Almora - Hippie Hill
Situated in Uttarakhand, Almora is a small town that’s going to leave you begging for more. More than anything, it is famous for a hill known as the “Crank’s Ridge”, also known as Hippie Hill, just above Almora. The beauty of this pine-covered ridge is indescribable and it literally is amazing to find such a small ridge that takes you back to the 1960s. Crank’s Ridge derived its name, thanks to the antics of some eccentric mystics and hippies that traveled there, seeking nirvana. So, if you want to just forget about everything and go to a hippie location, don’t forget Almora.
At times, people smirk at the hippies and some even go to the extent of ridiculing them; however, it is important to understand that it’s just a way of life they choose. Also, it’s wonderful to lead life the way it comes, isn’t it? Next time you want to just chill, man, you know what you gotta choose. But first, let’s be practical and find out #KitnaPadega to be really hippie! Once you know that, download our instant holiday itinerary planner and get nirvana-ed.