If you’re dreaming of a trip to India, then you shouldn’t let expenses hold you back. There are many places in the country that you can travel to while on a budget. Here are some favorite Indian travel destinations that are easy on the pocketbook.
McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
If your idea of a vacation getaway is a place where you can find peace and solitude, then McLeod Ganj may be the perfect destination for you. The Dalai Lama uses this community as his getaway spot. You may want to start your trip with an 11-mile round trip hike to Triund. The path is a great way to see the night sky, and there are plenty of tent camping opportunities along it. You may also want to sail on Dal Lake. If you’re interested in learning more about Tibetan culture, visit the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. Finish your trip to McLeod by picking up handmade items at the local market.
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
You can see beautiful sandstone architecture in many places in Jaisalmer, which makes it one of the best budget destinations to visit in India. Grab your camera and capture the amazing details of the havelis (traditional Indian townhouses) in the area. While many Indian forts cost money to tour, you can tour the golden fort in Jaisalmer, where about 4,000 people still live, for free. The residents of this community make incredibly beautiful goods out of camel leather, which they sell at very low prices. If you have a little extra money, then go on a camel safari. You can take in the memorable landscape, which will stay with you for the rest of your life. Homestays are a popular option here, and your host can usually arrange private meals to be prepared or let you eat with the family.
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Depending on what time you go to Kasol, you can enjoy the view of the hot spring water surrounded by a snowy landscape. Hiking along the banks of the Parvati River can be a great way to spend a day for residents and tourists alike. If you can find a fishing pole, you can spend part of your time fishing. You could also just lay on the river’s shores and watch the clouds float by overhead. Nearby is Malana, a very special place to visit with a local community known for having a somewhat isolated culture. It’ll take you a three-hour hike to get there. If you do make it during your visit, be sure to head to the Manikaran Sahib where you can take a bath in the special hot springs and then dine on the delicious street food that’s available at a very reasonable cost.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Looking to use your flights to India to reconnect with nature? Consider Kodaikanal as the perfect budget destination to visit in India. You may want to start your visit to this city by hiking through the Pine Forest. This hill country station lends itself very well to taking landscape and portrait pictures, so be sure to bring your camera along. You may also want to visit Vattakanal Waterfalls. Try to go in the early morning hours to see the rich diversity of the wildlife that lives in this area as the waterfall can get crowded later in the day, and many of the animals go into hiding. You may want to visit La Saleth Church, which can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs up the side of a cliff. The 19th-century church is the oldest Catholic church in Kodaikanal and is incredibly photogenic. After you stroll through the church, you can take in the views from this cliff side.
There are many budget destinations to visit in India. Pick your favorite location and start planning out your adventure now. There’s no need to build a vacation savings account when you visit these cities filled with free or inexpensive things to do.
Leave a Reply