Affordable Travel: Best Destinations for Indian Travellers
Discover ten fantastic destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond that offer stunning sights, meaningful experiences, and lasting memories, all without stretching your budget.
1. Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu has a strange charm that feels busy and peaceful at the same time. Its ancient temples, vibrant streets, and welcoming locals make it an ideal choice for first-time travellers. Visit Boudhanath and Pashupatinath for a spiritual touch, climb up to Swayambhunath for sweeping city views, and spend your evenings wandering through Thamel, where food stalls, cafés, and small shops fill every corner. If you have a bit more time, add a short trip to Pokhara for a relaxed lakeside break.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 10,000–15,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 1,500–3,000
2. Colombo & Southern Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka may be small, but it delivers big travel magic. Picture sunlit beaches, rolling tea estates wrapped in mist, and charming colonial streets. Begin in Colombo to soak in the city’s pulse, then head to Galle for its seaside fort, cafés, and postcard sunsets. Kandy brings temple visits and cultural performances, while Ella treats you to stunning train rides and gentle hilltop trails. Add flavourful seafood curries to the mix, and you have a budget-friendly tropical escape that feels far richer than its cost.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 11,000–18,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 2,000–3,500
3. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is a city that never stops surprising you. For Indian travellers, it’s one of the best-value international picks, thanks to affordable flights, flavour-packed street food, and endless things to explore. Wander through the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, glide along colourful floating markets, or spend a lively evening on Khao San Road. When you want a breather, take a quick trip to Ayutthaya for history or head to nearby islands for beaches and slow sunsets.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 10,000–14,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 2,000–4,000
4. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is the kind of island that invites you to slow down and breathe. Whether you’re chasing waves, seeking quiet corners, or exploring ancient temples, the island delivers it all without draining your wallet. Ubud pulls you in with its green rice terraces and artsy cafés, Seminyak brings beaches and nightlife, and iconic spots like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu light up the sky at sunset. If you want a bit more sparkle, take a budget-friendly trip to the Nusa Islands for those picture-perfect blue waters.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 15,000–25,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 2,500–5,000
5. Hanoi & Northern Vietnam
Vietnam is a favourite for budget travellers, offering rich culture without a high price tag. Hanoi blends old-world charm with lively streets, peaceful lakes, buzzing markets, and the character-filled Old Quarter. Sail through the limestone towers of Ha Long Bay, hike the green terraces of Sapa, and dive into the local food scene, where dishes like pho and bun cha cost surprisingly little. With affordable transport, stays, and meals, your budget stretches far here.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 13,000–35,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 1,500–3,000
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6. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is a rare blend of ancient wonder and modern energy. Start your day with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, then explore the vine-clad ruins of Ta Prohm and the grand gateways of Angkor Thom. When the sun dips, the town comes alive with night markets, music, and flavourful Khmer dishes that won’t strain your wallet. With affordable food and stays, it’s an easy pick for budget-conscious travellers.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 16,000–30,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 1,500–3,000
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7. Kuala Lumpur & Peninsular Malaysia
Malaysia offers a little taste of everything, from striking city skylines to rich food culture and peaceful nature spots. Begin your trip in Kuala Lumpur, where the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves set the scene, then dive into the flavours of Jalan Alor’s famous street food strip. With extra time, explore the heritage lanes of Malacca or unwind on the beaches of Langkawi. For Indian travellers, the mix of experiences and low costs makes Malaysia an easy win.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 11,000–15,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 2,000–4,000
8. Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia has quickly become a favourite among Indian travellers, and it’s easy to see why. Tbilisi charms you with its cobbled lanes, painted balconies, and friendly atmosphere. Ride the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for sweeping views, enjoy local wines, and try the famous cheesy khachapuri in cosy cafés. If you can spare a day, head to Kazbegi for some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the Caucasus.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 25,000–40,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 2,500–4,500
9. Manila & The Philippines
If turquoise water and laid-back island days are what you’re craving, the Philippines deserves a top spot on your list. Manila blends Spanish-era architecture with a modern city pulse, while Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu treat you to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The food is comforting, the locals are warm, and island-hopping can stay well within budget with a bit of smart planning.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 17,000–35,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 2,000–4,500
10. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul stands at the meeting point of Europe and Asia, blending cultures, flavours and centuries of history in one captivating city. Wander through icons like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, bargain your way through the Grand Bazaar, and take a calm cruise along the Bosphorus. Grab kebabs or simit from street vendors, sip Turkish tea, and enjoy the city’s grandeur without overspending. Stick to local eateries and simple stays, and Istanbul stays wonderfully affordable.
Round-trip (approx): Rs 20,000–50,000
Daily budget (avg): Rs 3,000–6,000
