India – The Land of Diversity, a country vast and diverse, a land of contrasts, be it the Himalayas or the Indian river plain, the mountainous terrains or the fertile plains, desert land or the lush green forests, land of several languages or large or very small industrial units. Travelling in India needn’t be all that expensive; there are plenty of places to make that budget trip without compromising on experience; whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, or a friend group interested in having affordable fun, many hidden gems in India that can explore on a budget.
Here are five affordable destinations where you can experience India’s beauty and culture- without spending a fortune.
Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala
Alleppey: Venice of the East If you haven’t already heard of this magical place, this quaint little town on the west coast of India in the state of Kerala sure is scenic! Renowned for its tranquil backwaters, houseboat cruises and magnificent verdant land, Alleppey is a place where you can unwind amidst nature. You don’t have to splurge on a fancy houseboat to experience the backwaters —there are also budget options, such as renting a smaller boat or riding a local ferry, from which you still get the same beautiful views for a fraction of the price.
Things to Do:
- Houseboat ride: A plush houseboat might be hard on the pocket, but one can opt for shorter, more affordable rides in regular Kerala-style boats.
- Alleppey Beach: A peaceful place to walk and watch the sunset.
- Vembanad Lake: Take a serene walk beside the lake or take a boat ride and cruise.
Budget Tips:
Opt for budget guesthouses or homestays; they will be easy on the wallet and provide an authentic Kerala experience.
Eat in local restaurants, where fresh seafood and Keralan specialities won’t break the bank.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is for those who want to travel to great places with spirituality and adventure and stay close to nature. Nestled on the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is renowned for yoga retreats, white-water rafting and breathtaking sights of the Himalayas. Whether you seek peace or an adrenaline rush, Rishikesh has something to offer everyone, all on a minimal budget.
Things to Do:
Yoga and Meditation Rishikesh is the world’s yoga capital, and many ashrams offer cheap yoga classes or retreats.
- White-water Rafting: Depending on the time of year and who you book with, you can enjoy this adventure sport at a reasonable cost.
- Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: These well-known suspension bridges offer cross-river views featuring the Ram River and the Laxman mountain.
Budget Tips:
There are many budget accommodations, including backpackers’ hostels and guesthouses, where you can stay for as little as ₹300-₹500 a night.
Street food is so cheap and delicious in Rishikesh, and you can try that local flavour without spending too much.
Top Places to Visit in Uttarakhand – Nature, Spirituality & Adventure Combined
Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna in Karnataka is a great option if you’re looking for a getaway from the crowded beaches of Goa but with the relaxed vibe of a coastal town. A relaxed beach town, Gokarna is famed for its unspoiled beauty and non-commercial aspect. This is an awesome place for budget travellers to relax and explore with its lovely beaches, temples and trekking trails!
Things to Do:
Hop around Beaches: Gokarna has many untouched beaches like Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Half-moon Beach, etc, where you can enjoy the sun and sand for a day.
- Trekking: You’re looking for a stunning experience in the area and are joining on easy treks leading to hidden beaches and other scenic points.
- Mirjan Fort: Discover the off-beat historic Mirjan Fort near Gokarna for calm and serene surroundings.
Budget Tips:
Economical guesthouses, homestays and beach-side shacks are the best options, and one can find value-for-money rooms for as little as ₹500 a night.
Savour fresh fish and simple dishes in small, inexpensive (but wow, they’re tasty) local restaurants.
Dharamsala and McLeodganj- Himachal Pradesh
Dharamsala and McLeodganj are notable to be home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. The Himalayas surround these hill stations of Himachal Pradesh and offer a much-needed break to everyone who wants to break free from the cacophony of life in a city. With sweeping views of the mountains, a rich Tibetan culture, and plenty of trekking options, yes and yes to both Dharamsala and McLeodganj for those watching the pennies.
Things to Do:
Dali Lama Temple Complex: Explore the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism at this timeless temple in McLeodganj.
- Trekking: Offering breathtaking views, Triund Trek is one of many in and around Dharamsala, offering treks that suit all experience levels.
- Tibetan Markets: Visit the local markets for Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and exclusive souvenirs at cheap prices.
Budget Tips:
Mcleodganj has plenty of budget guesthouses, hostels and homestays that are cheap, with prices starting at A guesthouse or hostel for about ₹300-₹500 per night.
Eating local Tibetan cuisine is cheap, easy, and delicious — check out momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread!
Sikkim
Sikkim, the least populous state in India, is famous for its picturesque landscapes, monasteries and biodiversity. Be it the capital city Gangtok, trekking to Tsomgo Lake, or the world-famous monasteries, Sikkim has a special experience for budget travellers. The state is well-equipped with transportation, and many natural highlights are easily accessible without breaking the bank.
Things to Do:
- Trek: Trek in Sikkim: There are multiple trekking routes in Sikkim, such as the famous Goecha La Trek and Yuksom to Dzongri trek. This way, you can get splendid views of Kanchenjunga without spending much.
- Stopover at the Rumtek Monastery: A visit to the Rumtek Monastery is a relatively large and significant monastery of Sikkim.
- Spend a day at Tsomgo Lake: The Tsomgo Lake at 12,313 ft is for those who cannot compromise on the visuals for budget constraints.
Budget Tips:
You’ll find options for accommodations to suit all budgets in Sikkim – from inexpensive hostels to basic guesthouses, with rooms available from just ₹500 per night.
Cheap, filling local food such as momos and thukpa is also a good way to experience the local flavours.
Conclusion
India is a country of contrasts and arguably the perfect place for those looking for that rose-tinted travel experience – from verdant hill stations to relaxing beaches, spiritual getaways, and high-altitude hikes. These top five spots—Alleppey, Rishikesh, Gokarna, Dharamsala & McLeodganj, and Sikkim—serve as a testament to traversing the country without emptying your wallet. Staying in budget places, using local transport, and eating street food are ways to get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, plan your trip, and explore these amazing destinations without spending much money!
