Thailand is a top choice for budget-conscious Indian tourists due to its favourable exchange rate and low living costs
In 2023, Indians explored nearly 1,000 cities across 68 countries, mainly using Uber for their travels. As Indian travellers surged to new destinations post-pandemic, Uber’s data revealed they were the second-largest group of overseas Uber users, with May being the peak travel month. What’s remarkable is how Indians managed to explore so many places affordably. They used favourable exchange rates and low living costs to stretch their travel budgets. Let’s dive into some of the most budget-friendly and rewarding destinations they discovered.
Thailand is a top choice for budget-conscious Indian tourists due to its favourable exchange rate and low living costs. Its proximity to India means shorter flights and affordable airfares—roundtrip flights from Bangalore start at INR 14,000, with daily expenses between INR 2,000 and INR 3,500. Visitors can enjoy Bangkok’s street food and markets, Phuket’s beaches, and Chiang Mai’s cultural sites, making Thailand an excellent destination for quality and cost-effective travel experiences.
In the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers a range of experiences at a reasonable cost. Beautiful beaches, historical sites, and delicious seafood make it an excellent option for budget travellers. Roundtrip flights from Bangalore start at INR 18,000, and daily expenses range from INR 1,500 to INR 2,000. Indian citizens can also enjoy visa-free entry until March 21, 2024. Visitors can explore Colombo and Negombo’s bustling scenes or enjoy Nuwara Eliya and Kandy’s cooler climates. The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is ideal for city and beach activities.
For those seeking to explore the Himalayas, Bhutan offers a unique and affordable experience. With stunning snow-capped mountains and high Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is both culturally rich and budget-friendly. Roundtrip flights to Bagdogra start at around INR 12,000, with daily expenses between INR 1,200 and INR 2,000. Indian travellers can enter visa-free but need a permit for Thimphu and Paro. The best times to visit are from March to May and September to November for ideal weather and scenic beauty.
Nepal, known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” offers excellent value for money with its stunning mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage. Roundtrip flights from Delhi start at around INR 9,000, and daily expenses are between INR 2,000 and INR 2,500. Indians can visit Nepal visa-free and enjoy trekking and exploring lush mountains. The prime times for excellent weather and outdoor adventures are October to December and March to April.
Finally, Azerbaijan offers a unique travel experience at a reasonable cost. Known as “The Land of Fire,” it blends modernity with tradition. Roundtrip flights from Delhi are around INR 26,000 to INR 28,000, with a daily budget of INR 4,500 to INR 6,000. Indian travellers can get an eVisa for their visit, with the best times to explore being April to June and September to October. Highlights include Baku’s Heydar Aliyev Centre and the ancient rock carvings at Gobustan.
As you plan your next vacation or dream of future travels, consider these budget-friendly destinations for a memorable and affordable experience. Whether you are looking for cultural richness, natural beauty, or urban excitement, these spots offer everything you need for an unforgettable journey without straining your finances.
