Discover the beauty of India without breaking the bank with our essential guide to budget travel in this captivating and diverse destination. Learn how to save on accommodation, savor mouthwatering local cuisine, navigate transportation, and enjoy unforgettable tourist attractions and activities without overspending.
Affordable Accommodation in India
- Hostels: India offers a wide variety of budget-friendly hostels, with dormitory-style beds starting at INR 300-800 (USD 4-11) per night. Check out reputable establishments like Zostel, Moustache, or goStops for a comfortable and economical stay.
- Guesthouses: Local guesthouses provide private rooms at affordable prices, ranging from INR 800-1,600 (USD 11-22) per night. Enjoy basic amenities and a more personalized experience at places like The Pearl Palace or The Blue House.
- Homestays: For a unique cultural experience, consider a homestay with an Indian family. These accommodations typically offer cozy rooms and home-cooked meals for INR 1,000-2,500 (USD 14-34) per night.
Delicious Dining on a Budget in India
- Street Food and Local Eateries: Savor authentic Indian cuisine by indulging in street food and dining at local eateries. Enjoy dishes like pani puri, chole bhature, or dosa for as little as INR 50-150 (USD 0.68-2.04) per meal.
- Markets: India’s bustling markets offer a wide array of affordable, fresh ingredients for those who prefer to cook their meals. Shop at the local markets to create your own budget-friendly feasts.
- Food Courts: Shopping malls and food courts in India often have a diverse range of low-cost dining options, with prices typically ranging from INR 150-300 (USD 2-4) for a meal.
Budget-Friendly Attractions and Activities in India
- Temples and Monuments: Explore India’s rich history by visiting temples and monuments with minimal entrance fees or free entry, such as the Lotus Temple in Delhi, the Golden Temple in Amritsar, or Akshardham in Delhi.
- Hiking: Discover India’s breathtaking landscapes by embarking on a hiking adventure. Many trails, such as those in the Western Ghats or the Himalayas, are free or have minimal entrance fees.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit local markets, historical sites, and cultural attractions to gain insight into India’s rich history and traditions. Many of these experiences are free or have minimal entrance fees.
Economical Transportation Options in India
- Buses: India’s public buses provide an affordable way to travel between cities and towns. Fares typically range from INR 20-200 (USD 0.27-2.72), depending on the distance.
- Trains: Save on transportation costs by traveling across India on trains. Choose from various classes, including Sleeper Class and AC3-tier, to fit your budget. Train fares can range from INR 100-1,500 (USD 1.36-20.43), depending on the distance and class.
- Rickshaws and Taxis: For shorter distances within cities, consider using auto-rickshaws or taxis. Negotiate rates beforehand to ensure a reasonable price.
Cost per Day – Breakdown
| Expense Category | Cost in INR per day | Cost in USD per day |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Hostel) | 300 – 800 INR | 4 – 11 USD |
| Food | 150 – 600 INR | 2 – 8 USD |
| Transportation | 50 – 300 INR | 0.68 – 4 USD |
| Tourist Attractions | 0 – 500 INR | 0 – 6.80 USD |
| Activities | 0 – 500 INR | 0 – 6.80 USD |
| Total | 500 – 2,700 INR | 6.80 – 36.72 USD |
