Planning an adventure-packed trip across India doesn't have to mean spending a fortune. With careful choices and some insider tips, you can explore mountains, valleys, spiritual hubs, and unique cultures with friends or even solo-while sticking to a smart budget. Across India’s vast landscapes, there are plenty of budget trips in India to visit that promise both excitement and affordable comfort.
This guide introduces you to ten incredible destinations, handpicked for value, experience, and accessibility. It includes new entries from the North East and the Himalayas, such as Sikkim, Meghalaya, and the Spiti Valley, each offering distinct scenery and adventures ideal for budget trips in India or solo trips in india groups searching for places to visit in India with friends in low budget. If you’re looking for the best low budget places to visit in india, use this list to start planning your affordable escape in 2025.
Table of Contents
Best Budget Trips In India 2025: Quick Comparison
| Destination | Best For | Stay (per night) | Must-Do Experiences |
| Rishikesh | Adventure, Spiritual | ₹200–₹500 | Rafting, Yoga, Ganga Aarti |
| McLeod Ganj | Solo, Trekking | ₹400–₹800 | Triund Trek, Dalai Lama Temple |
| Pushkar | Friends, Culture | ₹300–₹600 | Camel Fair, Lake, Temples |
| Kasol | Groups, Nature | ₹400–₹700 | Kheerganga Trek, Cafés, Shopping |
| Sikkim | Solo, Groups, Nature | ₹500–₹1,200 | Gangtok, Gurudongmar Lake, Monasteries |
| Meghalaya | Waterfalls, Adventure | ₹400–₹900 | Living Root Bridges, Dawki, Cherrapunji |
| Spiti Valley | Adventure, Backpackers | ₹500–₹1,200 | Key Monastery, Stargazing, Trekking, Pin Valley |
| Alleppey | Couples, Friends | ₹400–₹900 | Backwaters, Homestays, Houseboats |
| Manali | Trekking, Markets | ₹500–₹1,200 | Solang Valley, Cafés, Trekking |
| Shillong | Live Music, Culture | ₹400–₹900 | Ward’s Lake, Nightlife, Waterfalls |
Prices are approximate and may vary by season or booking method.
1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - The Adventure and Spiritual Hub
Rishikesh is one of the budget trips in india that people consider and currently it is a magnet for those seeking spiritual discovery alongside thrills like river rafting and mountain treks. Ideal for both solo travelers and groups, it’s among the topbudget friendly trips in India.
Highlights:
- White-water rafting on the Ganges
- Yoga and meditation at ashrams
- Stunning views from Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
- Affordable local markets and cafés
Budget Tips:
- Ashram or hostel stays from ₹200–500/night
- Save more with local buses and street food stalls
Explore our affordable Uttarakhand tour packages designed for budget travelers.
2. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh - Little Lhasa in the Hills
Nestled in Himachal’s hills, McLeod Ganj delivers Himalayan landscapes, Tibetan culture, and budget-friendly treks, making it a prime spot for groups and budget solo trips in India and the reason it is highly recommended in the list of budget trips in india.
Highlights:
- Trek to Triund
- Dalai Lama Temple
- Shopping for Tibetan handicrafts
- Indulge in momos and local teas
Budget Tips:
- Dorm beds from ₹400/night
- Walk or use shared taxis to nearby sights
Explore our affordable Himachal Pradesh tour packages designed for budget travelers.
3. Pushkar, Rajasthan - Spiritual Serenity & Color
From its tranquil lake to vibrant markets and temples, Pushkar blends tradition, fun, and affordability. It’s perfect for friends or solo travelers looking for budget trips in india or seeking budget friendly places to visit in Rajasthan.
Highlights:
- Sunrise by Pushkar Lake
- Explore bustling bazaars
- Attend the famous Camel Fair
- Scenic hikes to Savitri Temple
Budget Tips:
- Guesthouses from ₹300/night
- Rent cycles to get around cheaply
Explore our affordable Rajasthan tour packages designed for budget travelers.
4. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh - Parvati Valley’s Favorite
Kasol is known for its tranquil rivers, scenic mountain trails, and laid-back café culture. It stands out among places to visit in India with friends in low budget for its youthful vibe and cheap hostels.
Highlights:
- Trek to Kheerganga or Malana
- Enjoy budget riverside cafés
- Chill by the Parvati River
- Sample Israeli and Himachali cuisine
Budget Tips:
- Dorm rooms for ₹400/night
- Budget buses or share taxis for local trips
Explore our affordable Himachal Pradesh tour packages designed for budget travelers.
5. Sikkim - Snow Peaks, Culture, and Himalayan Bliss
Sikkim offers snow-capped mountains, serene monasteries, and a rich cultural mix, becoming one of thebudget trips in India for both groups and solo travelers.
Highlights:
- Explore Gangtok's MG Marg
- Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass
- Visit Rumtek Monastery
- Trek to Gurudongmar Lake or Yumthang Valley
Budget Tips:
- Local guesthouses or hostels from ₹500/night
- Shared jeeps lower sightseeing costs
- Local thalis and street eats save on meals
Explore our affordable Sikkim tour packages designed for budget travelers.
6. Meghalaya - Waterfalls, Living Bridges, and Clouds
Meghalaya, the heart of northeast and highly considered place when it comes to budget trips in India With its rainy landscapes, unique living root bridges, caves, and clean villages, Meghalaya is ideal for nature-loving budget travelers and friend groups.
Highlights:
- Double Decker Living Root Bridge trek
- Boating in Dawki’s crystal river
- Asia’s cleanest village, Mawlynnong
- Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunji
Budget Tips:
- Homestays from ₹400/night
- Public transport or shared cabs for travel
- Street food for affordable meals
Explore our affordable Meghalaya tour packages designed for budget travelers.
7. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh - Rugged Himalayan Adventure
“Little Tibet” dazzles with unreal landscapes, ancient monasteries, and charming villages. Spiti Valley is a top pick among budget trips in India for backpackers yearning for solitude and adventure.
Highlights:
- Key Monastery and remote villages
- Stargazing and biking through Kaza
- Chandratal Lake trek
- Explore Pin Valley National Park
Budget Tips:
- Budget homestays or dorms ₹500–800/night
- Meals at dhabas for ₹150–300
- Use HRTC buses and share taxis for the lowest travel costs
Explore our affordable Himachal Pradesh tour packages designed for budget travelers.
8. Alleppey, Kerala - Serene Backwaters
Kerala’s backwaters can be explored even by budget travelers which is a top pick among budget trips in India for the people who love nature and greenery. Shared boat rides, affordable homestays, and amazing South Indian food keep costs low.
Highlights:
- Houseboat day trips or shared boat cruises
- Local meals at toddy shops
- Cultural walks in historic Alleppey town
Budget Tips:
- Beds in homestays from ₹400/night
- Shared boat rides are more affordable than private
- Meals from ₹100 in local cafés
Explore our affordable Kerala tour packages designed for budget travelers.
9. Manali, Himachal Pradesh - Evergreen Hill Station
A classic mountain destination, Manali welcomes all with snow pursuits, riverside cafés, and friendly markets-making it a staple for budget solo trips in India and low-cost group escapes.
Highlights:
- Trekking: Solang Valley, Jogini Falls
- Cafés on Old Manali road
- Hidimba Devi Temple visits
- Winter sports (in season)
Budget Tips:
- Hostels or guesthouses from ₹500/night
- Use local buses for excursions
Explore our affordable Himachal Pradesh tour packages designed for budget travelers.
10. Shillong, Meghalaya - The Musical, Misty Capital
Shillong blends colonial charm, live music, and easy access to lakes and waterfalls. Its youthful scene and abundance of budget food/local stays make it ideal for places to visit in India with friends in low budget.
Highlights:
- Ward’s Lake strolls
- Shopping and street food at Police Bazaar
- Elephant and Bishop Falls
- Night markets and music events
Budget Tips:
- Dorms or budget hotels from ₹400/night
- Walk or take shared cabs within city
Explore our affordable Meghalaya tour packages designed for budget travelers.
Planning Budget Friendly Trips in India: Practical Tips
So here is the clear and concise breakdown for you to plan for your next trip without making a hole in your pocket. These steps can help you to make budget trips in Indiamore beautiful memories with less spending.
Travel Smart
- Prioritize trains, state buses, and shared cabs for intercity journeys
- Travel in shoulder seasons (just before or after peak) for better rates
- Book stays in advance, especially in popular tourist towns
Stay Local
- Look for hostels, dorms, and local guesthouses
- In Northeast India and Spiti, homestays enrich the experience and cut costs
Eat Local
- Street foods and small eateries deliver taste and savings
- Try thalis, momos, and local snacks for variety
Pack Light
- Essentials: layered clothes, rain gear for Northeast, sunscreen, and a sturdy backpack
- Carry an extra ID and relevant permits for Sikkim or Spiti
Conclusion
Choosing budget friendly trips in India isn’t just about saving money-it’s about making each trip more meaningful, spontaneous, and connected to the people and places you encounter. From the soaring peaks of Spiti and Sikkim to the living bridges of Meghalaya and the markets of Manali and Pushkar, these destinations let your travel dreams soar without draining your wallet. Whether you’re hunting for best budget trips in India as a solo explorer or with a group, the possibilities are limitless and accessible. Start packing and let next year’s best stories unfold!
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Budget Trips In India - FAQs
What’s the best time for a budget trip to Spiti Valley?
March to June is ideal for budget travelers as the weather is pleasant and homestays, buses, and local cafés run affordable deals.
How can I find places to visit in India with friends in low budget?
Opt for destinations like Kasol, Shillong, Meghalaya, Pushkar, and Sikkim, which offer cheap stays, group discounts, and free sightseeing.
What are key costs for a Spiti Valley trip on a budget?
Budget for accommodation (₹500–800/night), food (₹150–300/meal), HRTC buses, minimal permits, and shared taxis to major sights.
Which are the best budget trips in India for solo travelers?
McLeod Ganj, Spiti Valley, Kasol, Rishikesh, and Sikkim are renowned for solo-friendly hostels, easy transport, and activities for one.
How do I save money when traveling in Meghalaya?
Travel with friends to split cabs and homestays, use local buses, and choose street food and local markets for cheap meals.
What are budget friendly places to visit in North-East India?
Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Shillong offer stunning landscapes, affordable homestays, group-friendly tours, and reasonable sightseeing costs.
Do I need permits for Sikkim or Spiti, and how much do they cost?
Indian citizens generally don’t need permits for Spiti Valley but some Sikkim regions (North, East) require permits, priced at ₹100–₹300.
What’s the cheapest way to explore Manali and Kasol?
Stay in dorms, travel by state buses, walk or share cabs, and eat at local dhabas for daily costs under ₹1,000.
Is it safe and affordable to plan a budget solo trip to Meghalaya or Sikkim?
Both states welcome solo backpackers; choose busy areas, book in advance, and use hostels or homestays for both savings and safety.
How much should I budget for a weeklong trip to most destinations on this list?
A 7-day trip typically costs ₹7,000–₹15,000 including budget stays, local transport, shared meals, and most activities.
