8 Surprisingly Budget-Friendly Destinations in India
You don’t need deep pockets to explore India’s stunning beauty. From mountains to beaches, here are eight destinations where you can travel like royalty without spending a fortune.
McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Craving mountains on a budget? McLeod Ganj is perfect for you. Enjoy cozy guesthouses for under INR 500, delicious momos for INR 50, and free treks to Triund. Bonus: Monasteries, cafes, and breathtaking sunsets won’t cost you a rupee.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
One of the world’s oldest cities is also one of India’s most budget-friendly. Stay in an ashram for a small donation, indulge in street food like kachori-sabzi for INR 20, and take a boat ride on the Ganges for INR 100. Spiritual enlightenment? Priceless.
Hampi, Karnataka
With rooms under INR 300 and bicycle rentals for INR 50, Hampi is a paradise for budget travelers. Explore ancient temples, surreal boulder landscapes, and sunset points—all for free! Just don’t get lost among the ruins.
Gokarna, Karnataka
Want Goa vibes without Goa prices? Gokarna’s stunning beaches are free, shacks rent for as little as INR 500, and seafood feasts cost less than INR 150. Spend your days relaxing at Om Beach, trekking to Paradise Beach, or practicing yoga by the waves—all for next to nothing.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Nicknamed the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh offers budget-friendly stays at ashrams and hostels (INR 200-500 a night). River rafting, waterfall treks, and yoga classes come cheap, while watching the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is absolutely free.
Pushkar, Rajasthan
This quirky desert town is shockingly cheap! Stay in rooftop hostels for INR 400, eat a delicious thali for INR 100, and explore the colorful bazaars, temples, and more at no cost. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a free camel ride during the Pushkar Fair!
Majuli, Assam
Getting to Majuli is an adventure itself—a ferry ride will take you there. Once there, explore the place, and stay in bamboo huts that are budget-friendly. Nature, culture, and serenity—on a budget!
Alleppey, Kerala
Houseboats are expensive, but a INR 10 local ferry ride through the backwaters? That’s budget gold! Stay in cozy homestays for INR 500, eat INR 60 appam and curry, and enjoy endless beach walks for free.
