We know the feeling when long weekends or holidays approach or when there is simply that itch to bunk college or work and take off with friends to obscure places. Are you feeling jealous of scrolling down any social media by looking at the vacation pictures of your friends or colleagues? There are some pocket-friendly places where you can spend your weekend and relax with your family. Plan for the budget trips in India which are popular and offbeat and will surely give you a mesmerizing experience.
No worries if you just have a few thousand in your pocket for there is a long list of budget trips in India that you could opt for. From north to south and east to west, there is an extensive number of places that are just waiting to unravel. These budget locations are a crowd-pleaser and make the tiny escapes totally worthwhile.
Best Places For Budget Trips In India In 2024
- Alleppey – The Venice Of The East
- Pondicherry – The French Town
- Gokarna – The Less Crowded Goa
- Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital
- Darjeeling – The Land Of Thunderbolt
- McLeodganj – The Little Lhasa
- Sikkim – The Organic State
- Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Tip
- Hampi – The Forgotten Empire
- Nainital – The City Of Lakes
- Munnar – The Green Hill Town
- Varanasi –The Oldest City
- Ooty – The Queen Of Hills
- Shimla – The Iconic Hillstation
- Khajuraho – The Temple Town
- Kasol – The Heaven’s Gateway
- Digha – The City Of Underwater World
Alleppey – The Venice Of The East
Alleppey, the Venice of the East, is famous for the verdant countryside, lagoons, and the waterways. It is the best place to cruise lazily around in the ever-present houseboats, sample the delicious coconut-laced seafood, and enjoy one of the cheapest solo trips in India. Alleppey happens to be one of the most beautiful destinations for low budget trips in India.
Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To February
Average Cost:
- Stay: INR 350 – INR 800 per night
- Food: INR 700 per meal.
- Houseboats: Start at INR 6000 per day for 1 BHK and includes three meals, so split it up with friends if you can.
Places To Visit In Alleppey:
- Alappuzha beach
- Vembanad lake
- Pathiramanal island
Things To Do In Alleppey:
- Stay in a houseboat
- Go for a night walk
- Go boating
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Cochin International Airport (75 Km), Alappuzha Train Station
Famous Dishes: Puttu, Kadala, Beef Roast
What To Buy: Coir Items, Handicrafts
Pondicherry – The French Town
Why shell out thousands when you can get a French experience through some cheap trips in India? With low budget trips in India to Pondicherry, you can get the French flair right here in India. Walk the cobblestoned streets during the day and put up your feet at the innumerable cafes on the beach in the evenings. And yes, don’t forget to try out the French food around here.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To March
Average Cost:
- Bus travel from Chennai to Pondicherry and back: INR 500
- Stay: Comfortable cottage stay at INR 300 or budget hotels at INR 500
- Food: Try out some Indianized French cuisine starting at INR 200-300 for two
Places To Visit In Pondicherry:
- Paradise beach
- Aurobindo Ashram
- Auroville
Things To Do In Pondicherry:
- Fishing
- Cycling tour
- Shopping in Pondy bazaar
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Chennai International Airport/ Puducherry Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Crab Masala Fry, Mutton Rolls, Khowsuey, Parotas
What To Buy: Textiles, Pottery, Tibetan Handicrafts, Aromatherapy Product
Gokarna – The Less Crowded Goa
Image Source Looking for some peace and tranquility in one of the low budget places to visit in India for 3 days? Then, the Om Beach in Gokarna near Mangalore is one of the perfect 3 days trip places. You could try hiring some boats with the local fishermen to take you around the beaches in Gokarna. And if you start getting restless, there are a bunch of water activities you could go for. And what’s more? The Gokarna beaches still fall under the budget trips in India! Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: June To August Average Cost:
- Bangalore to Gokarna and back by bus: INR 800
- Goa to Gokarna and back by train: INR 90
Places To Visit In Gokarna:
- Om beach
- Mahabaleshwara temple
- Gokarna beach
Things To Do In Gokarna:
- Sunbathing on the beaches
- Trekking
- Camping near Gokarna beach
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Dabolim Airport/Murdeshwar & Karwar Railway Station Famous Dishes: South Indian Cuisine, Prawn Pizza What To Buy: Brass Lamps, Kallu Sarkkare, Handicrafts
Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital
Image Source Looking for cheap solo trips in India? Look no further than Rishikesh. The thrilling white-water-rafting, the splendid beach camps, and the exhilarating treks beckon the adventurer in you. A trip to Rishikesh tops the charts among the adventurous budget travel in India. You could also visit the breathtaking Valley of Flowers from here. Mind you, it’s a completely vegetarian and alcohol-free destination, but totally worth it!
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Best Time To Visit: Late September To Mid November
Average Cost:
- Travel to and from Delhi: INR 300
- Stay: INR 150 per night
- Food: INR 200/meal
- River rafting: INR 400 to INR 1300 per person
- Beach camping: INR 1600 per person (includes 1 Night stay, 3 meals and river rafting)
Places To Visit In Rishikesh:
- Lakshman Jhula
- Parmarth Niketan
- Triveni Ghat
Things To Do In Rishikesh:
- River rafting
- Bungee jumping
- Camping and bonfire
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Jolly Grant Airport/Dehradun Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Aloo Puri, Chole Bhature, Pani Puri
What To Buy: Glass Bangles, Carved Stone Idols, Pickles, Ayurveda Medicines.
Darjeeling – The Land Of Thunderbolt
Chugging up to Darjeeling from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri is a once in a lifetime experience. And what makes it better is that it is still one of the best budget-friendly trips in India. Once up in the hills, just take in the salubrious air, sip the Darjeeling tea, rise early and gaze at the sunrise at Tiger hills and get ready to be mesmerized by the magnificent Kanchenjunga. And the best part is, one can plan a great start to the New Year as Darjeeling is a great escape for those who are planning for budget trips in India in January.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: March To May and October-November
Average Cost:
- Travel from Kolkata to Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri by bus and back: INR 490
- Toy train up to Darjeeling from NJP: INR 250
- Jeep ride from NJP to Darjeeling: INR 150/person
- Stay: INR 800/- per night [twin-sharing basis]
- Food: INR 300 for two
Places To Visit In Darjeeling:
- Ghum Monastery
- Peace Pagoda
- Tea Estates
Things To Do In Darjeeling:
- Go river rafting in Teesta
- Trekking in Sandakphu
- Take a ride in toy train
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Bagdogra Airport/ New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Thukpa, The Naga Cuisine, Chaang, Momos
What To Buy: Hand Knitted Items, Tea, Handicrafts
McLeodganj – The Little Lhasa
A colorful hill station, Dharamsala is a mini-Tibet and one of the most beautiful destinations for budget trips in India. The dual cities of Dharamsala and McLeodganj are lined with numerous monasteries and temples to visit and the views of the hills and valleys are nothing short of magical. For those who love treks, be sure to try Triund trek and camp. Plan one of the best of budget trips in India in January and get to witness snow-clad mountains of the Dhauladar Ranges on top of Triund. So, if you are looking for some adventurous cheap trips in India, you sure can count on Dharamsala and McLeodganj for they are some of the best places for 3 days trip.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To February
Average Cost
- Delhi to McLeodganj and back: INR 1000
- Stay: INR 130/night – INR 500/night
- Food: Tibetan and Chinese cuisine at little cafes @INR 100 – 200 for two
Places To Visit In Mcleodgunj:
- Dal lake
- Naddi view point
- St John In The Wilderness
Things To Do In Mcleodgunj:
- Boat riding
- Shop at local markets
- Camping
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Gaggal (30 km)/Kangra Mandir railway station
Famous Dishes: Momos, Tibetan Cuisine
What To Buy: Woolen Items, Incense Sticks, Singing Bowls, Colorful Bags
Sikkim – The Organic State
Image Source Sikkim is one of the loveliest and cheapest holiday destinations in India. A great escape for those planning their budget trips in India in February, Sikkim serves as the best place for families, friends, and couples alike. Nothing beats its wonderful climate, scenic view of the Himalayas, picturesque treks, strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, and yummy local food. And all this comes well in your budget.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: March and May, October and Mid-December
Average Cost
- Kolkata to Siliguri (Train): INR 185 one side
- Siliguri to Gangtok (Bus): INR 165 one side
- Stay: Budget hotels are available at INR 600 up, but there are dorms too for INR 120 or single rooms for INR 250
- Food: Plenty of cheap places around, momos being the specialty here: INR 100 up per meal
Places To Visit In Sikkim:
- Gangtok
- Pelling
- Lachung
Things To Do In Sikkim:
- Go for a yak ride
- Trekking
- Paragliding in Gangtok
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Bagdogra Airport/ New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Gundruk Soup, Sinki Soup, Thukpa, Yak Cheese
What To Buy: Woolen Carpets, Choosees, Tea, Prayer Flags
Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Tip
Image Source Being the tip of the Indian mainland, itself makes Kanyakumari enticing. The confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean — behold it, to believe it! A must-see is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views here. This destination is certainly proving to be one of the best budget trips in South India.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To March
Average Cost:
- Bus fare Trivandrum to Kanyakumari and back: INR 500
- Train one way fare: INR 180
- Stay: INR 800 / night
- Food: INR 200 per meal
Places To Visit In Kanyakumari:
- Vivekananda rock memorial
- Thiruvalluvar statue
- Our Lado Ransom Church
Things To Do In Kanyakumari:
- Bathe at Triveni Sangam
- Watch the beautiful sunset
- Seek blessings from Goddess Kanyakumari
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Trivandrum International Airport/Kanyakumari Railway Junction
Famous Dishes: Kothu, Banana Chips, Pazha Sarbath, Aval
What To Buy: Shells, Handloom Saris.
Hampi – The Forgotten Empire
Image Source Not too cold, and not too hot, Hampi is a great choice in case you are planning for budget trips in India in February. This is one fantastic treat for history lovers and one of the most value for money and budget travel in India. Relive the Vijayanagar history just wandering about Hampi or maybe perch on the omnipresent huge boulders to survey the land around you. You could even catch the vibrant Hampi Utsav if you happen to visit in the first week of November.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To February
Average Cost:
- Train travel from Bangalore to Hospet and back: INR 500
- Hospet to Hampi: INR 100
Places To Visit In Hampi:
- Virupaksha temple
- Matanga hill
- Hemakuta hill temple
Things To Do In Hampi:
- Ride a bike to the hippie side of Hampi
- Cliff jumping
- Relax at Lotus Mahal
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Hubli Airport (143 km)/Hospet Railway Station (12 Km)
Famous Dishes: South Indian Cuisine like dosa, Idly
What To Buy: Brass Items, Hippie Clothes, Funky Jewellery, Leather Crafts
Nainital – The City Of Lakes
Being a hill station, Nainital is a good option for budget trips in India in December. Undoubtedly, one of the top hilly budget tourist places in India, Nainital is known for its main attraction – the Naini Lake & the beautiful hills that surround it. In addition to that, it also happens to be one of the best places to plan budget trips in India for couples. The rope-way to Snow view to get a dekko at the mighty Himalayas is a must-do here.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: March To June
Average Cost:
- State transport buses, Delhi to Nainital (roundtrip): INR 368
- Private Volvo bus (roundtrip): INR 800
- Stay: Spoilt for choices here, budget stay starts at as low as INR 150/night.
- Food: Lot of Punjabi food around, meals can start from INR 200 for two
- Boating: INR 150/hr for paddle boat
- Ropeway: INR 150 (roundtrip)/person
Places To Visit In Nainital:
- Nainital lake
- Tiffin top
- GB Pant zoo
Things To Do In Nainital:
- Boating at Naini lake
- Pray at Naini Devi temple
- Ride in Nainital ropeway
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Pantnagar Airport/Kathgodam Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Baadi, Bhatt ki Churkani, Aloo ke Gutke
What To Buy: Pinecone decorations, Aroma candles, Woollens
Munnar – The Green Hill Town
What can get better than the fresh air, refreshing aroma of tea plantations, and the reviving hills of Munnar for those who are planning budget trips in India for couples? Travel via Cochin, apart from the spectacular scenic drive, you could even enjoy a visit to the Elephant training Centre on the way. The tea gardens of Munnar are its hallmark, but one can even try the Eravikulam National Park or even some early morning treks to Rajmala hills.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: September To March
Average Cost
- Buses from Ernakulam or Cochin and back: INR 180 – INR300
- Stay: Cottages start at INR 600
- Food: INR 100 per meal
Places To Visit In Munnar:
- Echo Point
- Atukkad Waterfalls
- Top Station
Things To Do In Munnar:
- Treehouse stay
- Tea Estate tours
- Camping and trekking at Echo point
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Cochin International Airport (75 Km), Ernakulam Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Appam with stew, Kerala Prawn Curry, Beef Fry, and Malabar Parotta
What To Buy: Tea, Cashews, homemade chocolates, and Spices
Varanasi – The Oldest City
Looking forward to plan budget friendly trips in India? Varanasi can prove to be a great pick to culture vultures and all travelers alike. A cultural hotspot, Banaras or Varanasi, is situated on the banks of River Ganges. It is one of the cheap places to visit in India. The Ganga ghats are sites to experience the cultural flavor of India. So get on that boat ride and take in the most incredible sights from laundry to religious rituals. Don’t miss out on the Banarasi thandai and Banarasi paan!
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: November To February
Average Cost:
- Delhi to Varanasi and back (train): INR 652
- Stay: INR 200/night
- Food: Street food starts at INR 30 for two, Local food at INR 150 for two
- Boat ride on the Ganges: INR 250/hour
Places To Visit In Varanasi:
- Kashi Vishwanath temple
- Assi Ghat
- Sankat Mocha Hanuman temple
Things To Do In Varanasi:
- Witness evening Aarti ceremony
- Sightseeing tour of Sarnath
- Shopping in local market
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport/Varanasi Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Chena Dahi Vada, Malaiyyo, Chura Matar, Baati Chokha
What To Buy: Banarasi Silk Sarees, Gulabi Minakari, Wooden Toys
Ooty – The Queen Of Hills (South)
The Queen of Nilgiris, Ooty happens to be one of the best hill stations in South India for those planning for budget friendly trips in India. Ooty is one of the perfect destinations for budget trips in South India. A trip to Ooty, one of the best hill stations in South India, is amongst the best budget trips in India that you could ask for. It is also one of the cheap places to visit in India. The senses exult here in the midst of the exotic botanical gardens, Rose Garden, verdant hills, historical buildings, tea plantations and of course, homemade chocolates.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To June
Average Cost:
- Chennai to Ooty and back (bus) – INR 1400
- Stay: Starts at INR 300
- Food: Starts at as low as INR 50 for two
Places To Visit In Ooty:
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Ooty lake
- Emerald lake
Things To Do In Ooty:
- Jungle camping
- Kotagiri trek
- Trekking
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Coimbatore International Airport/Mettupalyam Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Kebabs, Chinese food, Chocolates and Momos
What To Buy: Authentic Spices, Leather Products, Ornaments, Tea
Shimla – The Iconic Hillstation
Shimla is one of the best hillstations for budget tours in India. The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is a lovely spot if you are looking for cheap holiday destinations in India. The hill station not only has many sightseeing attractions, but also mesmerizes with its scenic charm. Even if you will walk into a decent restaurant the price range would be inexpensive. There also are various budget hotels and resorts in Shimla that will make your budget escape unforgettable. If you are looking for low budget tourist places in India, then you can consider Shimla. If you’re thinking of a snow-laden escape, meandering past valleys sprinkled in white, then Shimla makes for dreamy winter road trips in India!
Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Nights/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: November To February
Average Cost:
- Stay: INR 700 – INR 1500 per night
- Food: INR 150 per meal.
Places To Visit In Shimla:
- The Ridge
- Kufri
- Chail
Things To Do In Shimla:
- Nature camping
- Treehouse Stay
- Trekking
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Jabbarhatti Airport/Shimla Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Meethe Chawal, Khoru, Patore, Chaa Gosht
What To Buy: Himachali Hats, Local Handicrafts, Traditional Jewelry, Wooden Items
Khajuraho – The Temple Town
Image Source Known across the world for its erotic art sculpture outside the historic temples, Khajuraho happens to be an ideal choice if you want to tour top low budget tourist places in India. This destination is made budget-friendly primarily through hostels like Zostel and many budget stays. It is one of the cheap holiday destinations in India that you can explore.
Ideal Duration Of Stay: 1 Night/2 Days
Best Time To Visit: October To February
Average Cost:
- Stay: INR 500– INR 1500 per night
- Food: INR 150 per meal.
Places To Visit In Khajuraho:
- Kandariya Mahadev temple
- Chaturbhuj temple
- Devi Jagdambi temple
Things To Do In Khajuraho:
- Jungle camping
- Bungee jumping
- Attend the light and sound show
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Khajuraho Airport/ Mahoba railway station
Famous Dishes: Rogan Josh, Mutton Kebabs, Chicken Biryani, Sabudana Khichdi
What To Buy: Handloom items, Miniature stone replicas, jewelry, silverware, and brassware
Kasol – The Heaven’s Gateway
Kasol is a village town in the district of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Parvati River, this hamlet has a couple of cheap stay options in the form of camps. The town has local eating points and amazing cafes which serve delicious food. There is a German bakery too in the center of this little hamlet which serves some of the best bakery items you would have ever tasted. The scenic views and delectable food options make it one of the best places in India for a 3 days trip.
Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Night/3 Days
Best Time To Visit: April, May, October and November
Average Cost
- Food: INR 300 per meal
- Stay: INR 350 for a triple sharing tent
Places To Visit In Kasol:
- Kheerganga trek
- Parvati river
- Tosh
Things To Do In Kasol:
- Camping
- Trekking
- Boating
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Bhuntar Airport/ Joginder Nagar Railway Station Famous Dishes: Falafel and Tabbouleh, Momos, Egg Parantha What To Buy: Himachali Caps, Dreamcatchers, Handicrafts. Chilham
Digha – The City Of Underwater World
This is a town in the state of West Bengal, which is known for its marine life and is best for budget solo trip in India. Digha is renowned as the resort beach town in West Bengal and is a must-visit place in the state if you are looking for a budget trip. Those looking for a peaceful travel experience, this beach town is unexplored and is therefore an ideal place to visit for 3 days in India.
Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Nights/3 days
Best Time To Visit: October To February
Average cost
- Train from Howrah to Digha: INR 150/-
Places To Visit In Digha:
- Digha beach
- Amaravati park
- Marine Station
Things To Do In Digha:
- Take a stroll in the park
- Sunbathing on the beach
- Witness the fishes in the aquarium
Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Kolkata Airport/ Howrah Railway Station
Famous Dishes: Pomfret, Rohu, Bhetki, Fried Fish, Tiger Prawns
What To Buy: Jute Products, Handicraft showpieces
Final Thoughts
Traveling with friends to budget-friendly destinations in India can create unforgettable memories without straining your finances. With diverse options ranging from beaches to mountains, and spiritual retreats to historical cities, there’s something for every group of friends. Planning and researching ahead will ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and cost-effective trip in 2024.