Cheapest places to travel in India is a topic that becomes more meaningful when you’ve actually experienced budget travel across the country. Over the years, I’ve explored several destinations that proved you don’t need a big budget to create big memories. India is full of affordable cities, peaceful beaches, cultural hubs, and mountain towns where you can travel slow, live simply, and still enjoy a rich travel experience.
Below are the top 10 destinations I’ve personally found affordable, comfortable, and full of stories worth remembering.
1. Jaipur – One of the Cheapest Places to Travel in India for Culture Lovers
Jaipur surprised me with how budget-friendly it truly is. The homestays, local buses, and street food stalls make the city perfect for low-cost travel. Exploring Amer Fort at sunrise, walking through old bazaars, and enjoying traditional snacks like kachori and chai made my trip unforgettable without overspending. Jaipur is ideal for travelers who want history and culture on a small budget.
2. Rishikesh – Peaceful and Among the Cheapest Places to Travel in India for Nature
Rishikesh remains a personal favorite. The sound of the Ganga, the mountain air, and the slow pace of life make it perfect for affordable soul-seeking travel. I stayed in a hostel overlooking the river, attended free yoga sessions, and enjoyed long walks on the Lakshman Jhula bridge. Even river rafting and local food fit easily into a budget.
3. McLeod Ganj – A Scenic Gem for Budget Backpackers
McLeod Ganj taught me how happiness can come from simple things—mountain air, warm momos, friendly café owners, and peaceful monastery visits. Staying in small guesthouses and trekking the Triund route allowed me to enjoy the mountains without worrying about expenses. It’s one of the calmest and cheapest travel spots I’ve visited.
4. Varanasi – Spiritual Experiences Without High Costs
Varanasi offers more experiences than expenses. Watching the Ganga aarti, exploring the old city lanes, and enjoying local delicacies like lassi and kachori felt meaningful and extremely budget-friendly. Almost every activity in Varanasi is low-cost, making it perfect for travelers who want culture and spirituality without overspending.
5. Puducherry – Affordable Coastal Escape
Puducherry’s calm beaches and French-inspired streets make it feel premium, but surprisingly, it’s very affordable. I rented a bicycle for the entire day and explored cafés, the Promenade, Auroville, and peaceful beaches. Guesthouses near the shore were priced lower than expected, making it perfect for a pocket-friendly coastal getaway.
6. Hampi – One of the Most Unique and Cheapest Places to Travel in India
Hampi feels like walking through a storybook filled with ancient ruins and giant boulders. I rented a scooter cheaply and spent my days exploring temples, riverside cafés, and historical sites. The simplicity of life in Hampi and the affordability of stays make it a heaven for history lovers on a budget.
7. Amritsar – Culture, Emotion & Affordability
Amritsar felt heart-warming from the moment I arrived. The Golden Temple’s peaceful atmosphere and the langar meals moved me deeply. Visiting Jallianwala Bagh and attending the Wagah Border ceremony were memorable experiences that didn’t cost much. Amritsar’s delicious local food and budget stays make it an ideal choice for low-cost cultural travel.
8. Darjeeling – Mountains on a Budget
Darjeeling offers cool weather, tea garden views, and charming streets that feel refreshing even on a tight budget. Staying in a small guesthouse overlooking the hills was more affordable than I expected. Shared taxis make sightseeing easy and cheap, and the sunrises at Tiger Hill make every early morning worth it.
9. Gokarna – A Budget-Friendly Beach Alternative to Goa
Gokarna became one of my favorite low-cost beach destinations. I stayed in a simple hut right on the sand, spent afternoons walking along the shore, and evenings watching peaceful sunsets. Fresh seafood, beach cafés, and the slow pace of life made it ideal for travelers who want beaches without the high prices.
10. Udaipur – Beauty, Lakes & Affordable Comfort
Udaipur looks luxurious with its lakes and palaces, but it’s surprisingly friendly for budget travelers. I found homestays near Lake Pichola with beautiful views at very reasonable prices. Exploring old markets, taking peaceful lakeside walks, and enjoying authentic Rajasthani food made my trip feel rich yet affordable.
Why These Are the Cheapest Places to Travel in India
These destinations stand out because they offer three things every budget traveler values:
- Low-cost accommodation options like homestays, hostels, and guesthouses
- Affordable local food that is authentic and satisfying
- Public transportation or walkable areas that reduce travel costs
When you combine these elements, you not only save money but also experience the real soul of the place.
Final Thoughts
Finding the cheapest places to travel in India isn’t just about saving money—it’s about discovering destinations that offer value, culture, nature, and genuine human experiences. Every place listed above taught me something different about travel: how simplicity can be rich, how local food can be comforting, and how meaningful moments don’t need luxury to feel special.
If you choose even one of these destinations for your next journey, your budget will thank you—and so will your heart.