Traveling around India on a budget can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. With its incredible variety of cultures and landscapes, travel in India can be an unforgettable experience of a lifetime. However, many travelers might find the country overwhelming and expensive. But, with a little bit of planning, you can save some money and still have a great time traveling in India.
Is It Possible to Plan a Good Trip on a Budget?
Yes, it is possible to plan a good trip to India on a budget. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that allow travelers to get the most out of their India trip without breaking the bank. India is a large country with many options for people traveling on a budget.
Hotels, guesthouses, and homestay accommodations can all be booked at reduced prices. Using the Indian Railways to travel long distances can dramatically reduce transportation costs. Budget-friendly flights are also offered by many airlines.
Additionally, low-cost eating options can often be found around tourist spots. Many local restaurants and street vendors offer inexpensive yet delicious meals.
Finally, travelers can find great deals when booking activities, such as local guided tours, safaris, and adventure activities. With careful planning, it is possible to have a memorable, affordable experience in India.
How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip?
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Here are some tips and tricks to help you save money while traveling in India!
1. Choose your accommodation wisely
Accommodation is usually the biggest expense while traveling. So, to save some money, it’s best to stay in budget hotels, hostels, guest houses, homestays or houseboats. You can also opt for Airbnb or Couchsurfing, which are becoming increasingly popular in India.
2. Research the cheapest transport options
It is important to explore all the available options for transportation, as the prices vary significantly. Take as much public transport as you can and look for cheaper deals for long-distance journeys. Moreover, try to travel at odd times, as the fares are usually lower during these hours.
3. Look for discounts and coupons
From airfare and accommodations to sightseeing, there are a lot of deals and discounts available. Do your research and see what works out best for your itinerary.
4. Eat like a local
Try street food, which is not only cheap but also very delicious. Also, avoid eating at big restaurants and opt for small eateries and cafes.
5. Travel during off seasons
If possible, try to avoid traveling during peak seasons, as this is usually when the prices are the highest. Instead, travel during the off-season, when the prices are usually much lower.
6. Travel light
This will help you to save money on transportation. Carry only the essentials and avoid unnecessary luggage, as it will help you to travel more comfortably.
7. Bargain
This is one of the most important things to remember while traveling in India. Always bargain for better prices on transport, accommodation, sightseeing, and shopping.
Popular Places to Visit for a Budget-Friendly Trip
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Jaipur
Any visit to India is incomplete without experiencing the grandeur of the land of kings and Forts.
Jaipur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, making it quite crowded and expensive during peak tourist season. Consider visiting outside of peak season which generally falls in December, January, and February. Jaipur offers a wide range of accommodation options. Shop around for the best deals and avoid hotels with large surcharges. You can also look for budget-friendly hostels, bed, and breakfasts, or camping grounds.
Jaipur is also known for its incredible shopping options like textiles, jewelry, pottery, and spices. Consider bargaining for the best deals and don’t forget to look for product warranties and guarantees.
Look for free attractions in Jaipur. Many of its public attractions, such as City Palace, Amer Fort, and Nahargarh Fort, offer entry free of charge.
Manali
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The ideal place for adventure lovers looking for solace in the lap of nature.
Make the most of your time in Manali by visiting popular tourist spots like Hadimba Temple, Manali Gompa, Club House, and Solang Valley. Many of these attractions are free, and some attractions and activities like skiing, mini golf, and horse riding come with discounted prices if you’re visiting in the off-season.
Traveling off-season can be very cost-effective, while you can still enjoy the destination. Manali’s off-season is from October to March, a period in which hotel bookings and air tickets come at much lower rates than in peak season. You can look out for seasonal offers or put in some extra effort to look into daily specials and discounted vouchers available on websites like Cleartrip, and Goibibo, and offers on Treebo Hotels.
Amritsar
The Golden City is full of spiritual and religious beauty that can be explored through different Dharamshalas at budget-friendly rates.
Cities like Amritsar offer numerous hotels ranging from budget to luxurious. Have a look at ratings and reviews of hotels in Amritsar before booking one. Moreover, Local transport is a lot more affordable and a great way to explore the city. Also, Don’t be afraid to bargain for souvenirs, clothes, and other knick-knacks at Amritsar. From its famous leather bags to iconic phulkari embroidery, Amritsar has a lot of great shopping options. Check out Treebo Hotels in Amritsar offering all amenities at affordable prices.
Vrindavan- Mathura-Agra
This trip will cover three beautiful places without making a hole in your pocket. There is so much to see and learn here about India’s history and mythology that is perfect for a trip with family, kids and even couples can go for a peaceful yet exciting getaway.
You can cover all the places in 3-4 days and there are plenty of accommodation options here that fit even the lowest budget. Also, the guides and local food is really inexpensive making it a super affordable trip.
Lonavla
There are often great deals for meals, activities, and other services that you can take advantage of when visiting Lonavala. Look for combo offers and discounts before you travel to save the most money.
If you plan on exploring the city and spending some time outdoors, consider bringing your own snacks and meals that are easy to carry and have a good shelf life. Eating out multiple times here can be expensive.
These are just a few options, India is an incredibly diverse country, with a variety of natural, cultural, and historic attractions that make it an ideal destination for affordable travel. From the Taj Mahal in Agra to the beaches of southern Kerala and Odisha, there is an incredible array of places to explore. Along the way, visitors to India can experience the country’s rich culture and bustling cities.
Moreover, with an expansive array of accommodation options and transport, India is an excellent option for budget-friendly travel. Furthermore, with its delicious cuisine and range of festivals, India offers an array of opportunities for any budget traveler.
Traveling on a budget can be a lot of fun, and by following the mentioned tips and tricks you can explore India in a unique and memorable way. Furthermore, you can even try to experience the true spirit of India by volunteering or traveling with a local. And don’t forget to enjoy the magic of this incredible country.
Happy travels!
