Budget Friendly Places to Visit in India
India, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and timeless heritage, is a dream destination for every traveler. But what if you’re on a budget? No worries, India is one of the few countries where you can explore mountains, beaches, forests, and historical wonders without burning a hole in your pocket.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best budget friendly places to visit in India, ideal for a 3 days trip, weekend getaways, and even spontaneous travel. Whether you’re a student, a solo backpacker, or planning a quick weekend trip from Delhi, we’ve got you covered with affordable options full of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Why Choose Budget Travel in India?
India is unique when it comes to budget travel. Here’s why:
- Low transportation costs: Trains and buses connect even remote places.
- Affordable accommodations: Guesthouses, hostels, and homestays are abundant.
- Incredible street food: Delicious and cheap local food in every corner.
- Cultural experiences for free: Temples, festivals, nature treks, and historical walks.
Now let’s dive into the destinations!
1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Yoga, River Rafting & Spiritual Escape
Best for: Weekend trip from Delhi, solo travel, adventure lovers
Estimated Budget: ₹3,000–₹5,000 for 2 nights
Just a 6-7 hour drive from Delhi, Rishikesh is perfect for a quick yet refreshing getaway. Whether you’re into yoga, river rafting, or just want to relax by the Ganges, Rishikesh has it all.
Things to Do:
- Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
- Try bungee jumping and river rafting
- Walk across the famous Laxman Jhula
Budget Tips:
- Stay in ashrams or hostels
- Eat at local cafes like Chotiwala or Ramana’s Garden
2. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh – The Mini Israel of India
Best for: Backpackers, couples, solo travelers
Estimated Budget: ₹4,000–₹6,000 for 3 days
Nestled in the Parvati Valley, Kasol offers scenic beauty, chill vibes, and budget-friendly stays. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and one of the best place for 3 days trip in India.
Things to Do:
- Trek to Kheerganga or Tosh
- Camp by the river
- Try Israeli cuisine
Budget Tips:
- Travel by bus from Delhi or Chandigarh
- Share cabs and stay in tents or hostels
3. Gokarna, Karnataka – Beaches Without the Goa Crowd
Best for: Beach lovers, peaceful getaways
Estimated Budget: ₹5,000–₹7,000 for 3 days
Want Goa vibes without the expense or crowd? Gokarna is a serene beach town with clean, less crowded beaches and budget huts right on the shore.
Things to Do:
- Trek from beach to beach (Om Beach, Kudle Beach)
- Try banana boat rides or beach yoga
- Sunset at Paradise Beach
Budget Tips:
- Stay in beachside huts or hostels like Zostel
- Dine at beach shacks with local seafood
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Soulful, Spiritual, and Timeless
Best for: Cultural experience, photography
Estimated Budget: ₹3,000–₹5,000 for 2-3 days
One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi offers an unforgettable blend of culture, spirituality, and riverbank serenity-all on a budget.
Things to Do:
- Take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
- Witness Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Explore narrow alleys and sip local chai
Budget Tips:
- Eat local thalis for under ₹100
- Stay in guesthouses near Assi Ghat
5. Hampi, Karnataka – Ruins, Rocks, and Riverside Bliss
Best for: History lovers, photographers
Estimated Budget: ₹4,000–₹6,000 for 3 days
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi feels like an open-air museum. It’s a land of ruins, temples, and surreal landscapes that won’t hurt your wallet.
Things to Do:
- Visit Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple
- Bicycle around the ancient ruins
- Chill by the Tungabhadra River
Budget Tips:
- Use public buses from Hospet
- Try local south Indian meals and thalis
6. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh – Tibetan Vibes and Scenic Views
Best for: Peaceful stay, spiritual escape
Estimated Budget: ₹4,000–₹6,000 for 3 days
Home to the Dalai Lama, this quaint hill station offers monasteries, meditation, and Himalayan serenity.
Things to Do:
- Visit Namgyal Monastery and Bhagsu Waterfall
- Trek to Triund
- Try Tibetan momos and thukpa
Budget Tips:
- Use Himachal roadways buses
- Stay in guesthouses or budget hostels
7. Pondicherry – French Charm on a Budget
Best for: Couples, solo travelers
Estimated Budget: ₹5,000–₹7,000 for 3 days
This coastal town combines French colonial architecture with Indian soul and laid-back beaches.
Things to Do:
- Explore White Town and Auroville
- Relax at Serenity Beach
- Rent a cycle and explore cafés
Budget Tips:
- Choose budget homestays
- Eat at local bakeries and South Indian restaurants
8. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan – Golden City Adventures
Best for: Desert lovers, culture explorers
Estimated Budget: ₹6,000–₹8,000 for 3 days
Explore sand dunes, ancient forts, and colorful bazaars in Jaisalmer without stretching your budget.
Things to Do:
- Camel safari and desert camping
- Visit Jaisalmer Fort and Patwon Ki Haveli
- Try local Rajasthani food
Budget Tips:
- Travel in off-season for cheaper rates
- Book package safaris that include food and tents
9. Pushkar, Rajasthan – Holy Vibes and Hippie Markets
Best for: Backpackers, culture seekers
Estimated Budget: ₹3,000–₹5,000 for 2-3 days
This small town near Ajmer is perfect for a short, peaceful budget trip. It’s one of India’s oldest pilgrimage sites and has a hippie vibe.
Things to Do:
- Visit Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake
- Shop at colorful markets
- Enjoy rooftop cafés with views
Budget Tips:
- Stay in hostels or dharamshalas
- Try local falafel and street food
Bonus: Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit from India
If you’re open to international travel on a budget, here are top 10 cheapest country to visit from India:
- Nepal – Close and culturally rich
- Bhutan – Serene, spiritual, scenic
- Sri Lanka – Tropical paradise
- Indonesia – Bali on a budget
- Thailand – Great for backpackers
- Vietnam – Scenic, affordable, friendly
- Cambodia – Rich in history, cheap to travel
- Laos – Peaceful and underrated
- Malaysia – Urban and natural wonders
- Myanmar – A hidden gem opening up to travelers
Tips for Planning a Budget Trip in India
- Use public transport: Trains and buses save big bucks.
- Book early: Flights, trains, and hotels get cheaper the earlier you book.
- Travel off season: Avoid peak holidays to save on stay and transport.
- Eat local: Indian street food is not just tasty, but incredibly affordable.
- Use travel apps: Platforms like Zostel, Hostelworld, and IRCTC can be lifesavers.
Final Thoughts
Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive, especially in a country as vibrant and diverse as India. From serene hills to golden deserts and peaceful beaches to spiritual towns, there are countless budget friendly places to visit in India that offer unforgettable experiences without emptying your wallet.
Whether you’re looking for a 3 days trip in India, a quick weekend trip from Delhi, or even dreaming of international escapes on a budget, planning smart and exploring mindfully can make all the difference.
So, pack light, plan well, and let the journey begin!
