Are you looking to explore India without burning a hole in your pocket? The vibrant country offers a plethora of affordable travel spots that promise memorable experiences. Here’s a backpacker’s guide to the top 10 budget travel destinations in India for 2025!
1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – The Yoga Capital on a Budget
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Affordable ashrams, cheap local eateries, free yoga classes.
Things to Do:
- Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
- Try river rafting and bungee jumping.
- Meditate in Beatles Ashram.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹800 – ₹1,200
Nearby Places: Haridwar
2. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh – A Spiritual Getaway
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Low-cost homestays, local food, free trekking trails.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Dalai Lama Temple.
- Hike to Triund.
- Enjoy Tibetan cuisine.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹700 – ₹1,000
Nearby Places: Dharamshala, Bhagsu Falls
3. Hampi, Karnataka – Ruins and Riverside Charm
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Dormitories and guesthouses under ₹500, free-to-enter historical sites.
Things to Do:
- Explore ancient ruins and temples.
- Watch the sunset from Matanga Hill.
- Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹600 – ₹900
Nearby Places: Anegundi
4. Pondicherry – French Vibes on an Indian Budget
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Budget hostels, affordable French cafes, cycle tours.
Things to Do:
- Stroll along Promenade Beach.
- Visit Auroville.
- Explore the French Quarter.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹900 – ₹1,200
Nearby Places: Serenity Beach
5. Pushkar, Rajasthan – Holy Town with Budget Charm
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Dorm stays starting ₹300, delicious street food.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Brahma Temple.
- Witness the Pushkar Lake sunset.
- Shop at local bazaars.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹500 – ₹900
Nearby Places: Ajmer, Savitri Temple trek
6. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – The Soul of India
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Inexpensive ghatside lodges, vegetarian meals under ₹100.
Things to Do:
- Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Take a boat ride at sunrise.
- Visit Sarnath.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹600 – ₹900
Nearby Places: Ramnagar Fort
7. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh – The Mini Israel of India
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Hostels from ₹300, affordable Israeli food.
Things to Do:
- Trek to Kheerganga.
- Relax by Parvati River.
- Visit nearby villages like Tosh and Malana.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹700 – ₹1,000
Nearby Places: Manikaran
8. Alleppey, Kerala – Backwaters Without the Blowout
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Houseboat group stays, local ferry rides, home-cooked meals.
Things to Do:
- Take a houseboat cruise.
- Visit Alappuzha Beach.
- Explore village life on a bicycle.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹900 – ₹1,300
Nearby Places: Kumarakom, Kochi
9. Gokarna, Karnataka – Goa’s Quieter, Cheaper Cousin
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Beachside shacks from ₹300, seafood thalis under ₹200.
Things to Do:
- Trek the Gokarna Beach Trail.
- Visit Om Beach and Kudle Beach.
- Try yoga on the beach.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹800 – ₹1,100
Nearby Places: Mirjan Fort
10. Shillong, Meghalaya – Northeast’s Budget Jewel
Why It’s Budget Friendly: Budget hotels, street markets, shared cabs.
Things to Do:
- Visit Umiam Lake and Elephant Falls.
- Explore the living root bridges in Cherrapunji.
- Enjoy local music at cafes.
Average Cost Per Day: ₹900 – ₹1,200
Nearby Places: Mawlynnong, Dawki
Budget Travel Tips for India
- Travel Off-Season – Save big on accommodation and travel.
- Use Trains and Buses – Indian Railways and state buses are economical and extensive.
- Stay in Hostels – Affordable and perfect for networking.
- Eat Local Food – Enjoy authentic tastes at budget-friendly prices.
- Group Houseboats or Shared Jeeps – Especially useful in Kerala or Spiti.
- Always Carry Cash – Small towns and rural areas often don’t accept cards.
- Travel Light – Avoid extra baggage charges.
Use Local SIM with Data – Essential for bookings, maps, and translations.
Final Thoughts
From the spiritual ghats of Varanasi to the breathtaking cliffs of Spiti and the peaceful beaches of Gokarna, these budget friendly places to visit in India prove that you don’t need to splurge to explore.
Follow the tips, pack light, and embark on a rich, affordable journey across the diverse landscapes of India — one memory at a time.
What is the most budget-friendly destination in India for backpackers?
Hampi and Varanasi are among the most budget-friendly destinations in India. You can find decent accommodation and food for under ₹500 per day per person, and most attractions are either free or very low-cost.
Which are the best budget destinations in India during summer?
McLeod Ganj, Kasol, and Shillong are great summer getaways that stay cool and wallet-friendly. These hill stations offer scenic beauty, cheap stays, and plenty of trekking opportunities.
Is it safe to travel alone to these budget places in India?
Yes, most of the places listed like Rishikesh, Pondicherry, and Pushkar are considered safe for solo travelers. Just ensure basic precautions like booking reputable stays, avoiding isolated areas after dark, and keeping emergency contacts handy.
What apps help with budget travel in India?
Apps like RedBus, Rome2Rio, Zostel, Hostelworld, MakeMyTrip, and Google Maps are essential for booking, navigation, and finding budget accommodations and transport.
What’s the average cost for two people per day in these destinations?
On average, you can expect to spend ₹900 to ₹1,300 per day for two people, including stay, food, and local travel in most budget destinations listed here.