As the holiday season arrives we all want to head to a new destination where we can destress ourselves and have new experiences.
But with the rising inflation and travel package rates it becomes difficult to plan a trip without straining your wallet.
If you’re holding on to your travel plans because of a limited budget then you will be glad to know that there are many places in India where you can head this holiday season without feeling broke.
While embarking on these budget-friendly trips in India you won’t have to worry about your budget.
India is a large country with tons of scenic places and historical attractions. From beautiful beaches to lofty mountain peaks and golden sand dunes, you’ll find a great variation in the topography of the country.
These budget locations offer the best experiences and are blessed with stunning vistas that will refresh your tired soul.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurous soul, or a culture vulture you’ll find a place within your budget as per your unique interests and preferences.
Let’s take a look at the low-budget places to visit in India without compromising on the fun factor.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry is one of the most budget-friendly destinations that you can visit to have an authentic French experience.
The streets of Pondicherry are dotted with colonial structures that will transport you to the ancient era. It has many chic boutiques and cozy cafes where you can enjoy lip-smacking French cuisine and refreshing drinks.
October to March is the best time to visit Pondicherry for those on a limited budget as it is a low season and the rates of accommodations are quite low.
A 2 Nights/3 Days trip is perfect for exploring the prime attractions of Pondicherry. Visit this destination now if you want to have budget-friendly trips in India.
Prime attractions: Aurobindo Ashram, Paradise Beach, Auroville, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Must-try activities: Shopping in Pondy Bazaar, cycling tour, fishing, sightseeing
Bus travel to Pondicherry from Chennai and back: INR 500
Stay: You’ll find budget hotels at INR 500 and comfortable cottages at INR 300
Food: Indianized French cuisine for two starts at INR 200-300
Nearest Railway Station/ Airport: Puducherry Railway Station and Chennai International Airport
Darjeeling
If you love magnificent views, picturesque landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere then you must visit Darjeeling.
It is also known as the ‘Queen of Himalayas’ and is one of the best places to see splendid sunrises and sunsets.
If you’re planning cheap solo trips in India you should definitely visit Darjeeling as it has budget-friendly accommodations and free attractions.
Enjoy the freshly plucked Darjeeling tea and ride the longest Asian cable car appreciating the breathtaking views.
You can also visit the botanical gardens, appreciate the tranquility offered by the monasteries, and shop from the local markets. March to May is the best time to visit Darjeeling on a budget.
Prime attractions: Tea Estates, Ghum Monastery, Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop
Must-try activities: River rafting, trekking, toy train ride
Bus travel to Siliguri from Kolkata and back: INR 500
Stay: You’ll find budget hotels at INR 800 on a twin-sharing basis
Food: Local food for two starts at INR 250-300
Nearest Railway Station/ Airport: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station/ Bagdogra Airport
Varanasi
If you want to gain an insight into the rich culture and heritage of India without overspending Varanasi can be your ideal choice.
It is India’s spiritual capital that attracts pilgrims from all around the world. The super affordable lodging facilities and cheap food available at the local markets make Varanasi perfect for budget trips in India in January.
You can witness the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and explore the scenic ghats where various spiritual rituals are performed.
Enjoy Banarsi paan and thandai to satiate the cravings of your taste buds.
Prime attractions: Kashi Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mocha Hanuman temple, Assi Ghat
Must-try activities: Witnessing Ganga Aarti, Shopping, sightseeing tour of Sarnath
Train to Varanasi from Delhi and back: INR 652
Stay: You’ll find budget hotels at INR 200 on a twin-sharing basis
Food: Street food starts at Rs 30
Nearest Railway Station/ Airport: Varanasi Railway Station/ Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
Kasol
Experience the best that nature has to offer by planning a budget-friendly trip to Kasol.
Kasol is a small village situated along the river Parvati’s banks best for people looking for budget-friendly trips in India.
Whether you’re a nature lover, backpacker, trekking enthusiast, or a solo traveler Kasol will cater to all your diverse interests.
Kasol is the gateway for various treks to Sar Pass, Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. It has many budget-friendly accommodations in the form of camps that offer all the basic facilities.
A 2 Nights/3 Days trip is perfect for exploring the main attractions of Kasol.
Prime attractions: Kheerganga trek, Tosh, Parvati River
Must-try activities: Camping, trekking, sightseeing, boating
Stay: You’ll find a triple-sharing tent at INR 350
Food: Rs 300 for two person
Nearest Railway Station/ Airport: Joginder Nagar Railway Station/ Bhuntar Airport
Gokarna
If you’re planning budget-friendly trips in India then you should not miss out on Gokarna.
It is known as the less crowded Goa because of its picturesque beaches and breathtaking landscapes.
You can hire a boat to visit the beaches in Gokarna. Since Gokarna is not crowded you’ll find budget-friendly accommodations all around the year.
The out-of-town beaches such as Om Beach and Kudle Beach are must-visit during your Gokarna trip. This place is ideal for enjoying relaxed holidays away from the hustle and bustle of the fast-paced city life.
Prime attractions: Gokarna Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Om Beach
Must-try activities: Camping, sunbathing, trekking
Bus to Gokarna from Bangalore and back: INR 800
Stay: You’ll find budget hotels at INR 350 on a twin-sharing basis
Food: Street food starts at Rs 100
Nearest Railway Station/ Airport: Murdeshwar & Karwar Railway Station/ Dabolim Airport
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is situated on the foothills of the Himalayas and is one of the best low-budget places to visit in India.
Rishikesh is well-known for its spiritual atmosphere and ashrams. Many of these ashrams provide free or low-cost yoga and meditation classes, allowing you to have a relaxing vacation without breaking the bank.
The town has a variety of low-cost lodgings, such as guesthouses and hostels, to ensure you can have a nice stay without breaking the bank.
There are cheap alternatives for every traveler, from riverfront lodges to tiny cottages.
Prime attractions: Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth Niketan
Must-try activities: Camping, trekking, river rafting, yoga
Train to Rishikesh from Delhi and back: INR 300
Stay: You’ll find budget hotels at INR 150 on a twin-sharing basis
Food: For food, you’ll have to pay a minimum of INR 150
Nearest Railway Station/ Airport: Dehradun Railway Station/ Jolly Grant Airport
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