Experience the World on a Budget: Essential Tips for Backpacking

If you’re a budget traveler, India is the perfect destination for you! From the sand dunes of Rajasthan to the beautiful backwaters of Kerala, India has plenty of budget-friendly activities and attractions that will make your holiday an unforgettable experience. With its diverse culture, heritage, and spirituality, India is the ideal place to explore on a low budget. 

10 Budget Travel Destinations in India

Here is a list of the top 10 budget travel and backpacking destinations in India.

1. Agra

Agra is home to one of the most iconic images in Indian culture – the Taj Mahal. Agra is one of the most economical cities to travel in India. This city also has many other monuments like the Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.

2. Jaipur

The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the gateway to India’s desert treasures. The city boasts sights such as the City Palace and Hawa Mahal, which are both worth visiting. Jaipur is an excellent place to visit for budget travelers, as there are many hotels, restaurants, and markets that offer competitive prices.

3. Leh-Ladakh

This inviting destination is a favorite amongst backpackers and adventure travelers. Here, you can explore Buddhist monasteries, take a ride on a yak, indulge in adventure sports, and go trekking in the barren mountains. The cost of this destination is relatively lower than other places in India, making it ideal for budget travelers.

4. Manali

Manali is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation, as well as an opportunity to explore the majestic Himalayan culture, cuisine, and scenery. Here, you can enjoy easy trekking, mountain biking, and water rafting, among many other outdoor activities.

5. Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a holy city situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. This city is a famous site for pilgrims, as it is home to many ancient temples and ashrams. Rishikesh is also known for being a great budget destination due to its abundance of affordable accommodations and restaurants.

6. Hampi

Hampi is an ancient historic site full of ruins and temples. This city offers an incredible view of the Tungabhadra River, as well as some interesting things to do, like trekking, rappelling, and exploring ancient caves. Hampi is the perfect place for the history buff who’s on a budget.

7. Goa

Goa is India’s ultimate beach destination, with its energetic and sunny atmosphere. This vibrant city offers a wide range of activities, from beach lounging to exploring colonial architecture and partying at famous nightclubs. Goa is also one of the best budget travel destinations, as it houses many cheap accommodations and beach shacks.

8. Alleppey

Alleppey is a picturesque backwaters destination situated in the state of Kerala. This town is a great location to explore on a budget, with its charming canals, houseboats, and local talent. You can enjoy a lovely day of boat rides and view the lush green paddy fields as you go.

9. Udaipur

Udaipur is a gorgeous city surrounded by lakes and palaces. The City Palace, Courtyard of the Maids, and Jagdish Temple are some of the must-visit attractions in this destination. Udaipur is also a great destination for budget travelers, with its many affordable accommodations, restaurants, and markets.

10. Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest and most celebrated national park. Here you’ll find plenty of wildlife to spot, including Bengal tigers, elephants, and several other species of animals. Tourists can explore the park on an Elephant Safar or by Jeep, which are both relatively inexpensive activities.

Conclusion

India is a vast and diverse country, and traveling here can be quite a challenge for a budget traveler. Fortunately, the country offers plenty of budget-friendly destinations, activities, and attractions that will save you some money. From the iconic Taj Mahal to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, these top 10 budget destinations in India are sure to make your experience an unforgettable one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the responses to the questions related to backpacking on a budget.

What activities can I do on a budget in India?

 There are plenty of activities that you can do on a budget in India. Some of the activities include trekking, mountain biking, boat rides, exploring ancient temples and monuments, and exploring the wildlife in the national parks such as Jim Corbett National Park.

How much money should I budget for a trip to India?

This depends on the type of trip you plan to take. For a basic backpacking trip, you should budget anywhere from $20-50 USD per day for accommodation, meals, and activities. For a more luxury-style trip, you should budget anywhere from $50-100 USD per day.

What is the best time to visit India?

The best time to visit India depends on what type of activities you plan to do. Generally, the best time to visit is from October to March. These months provide the best weather for activities such as trekking and sightseeing. The summer months can be quite hot, so be mindful of that when planning your trip.