While it’s true that traveling is no longer a luxury, planning your budget wisely while touring through a new destination can be a challenge sometimes. India is not a very expensive place to visit but there are certain places (such as big cities) which can still burn holes in your wallet. So for backpackers on a budget arriving in India on cheap flights, here’s a list of affordable places in the country where you need only spend INR 500 a day. This way, not only will you be able to enjoy exploring this amazing country, but will also do it without having to exhaust your finances.
1. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
One of the most beautiful hill stations in India, Mcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh is also one of the most peaceful ones in the country. Mcleodganj is especially popular among tourists who wish to visit the place where the Dalai Lama resides. But there are other amazing things the area offers as well such as adorable cafés, great weather, delicious food, friendly locals and countless trekking opportunities. But what is most appealing is that you can enjoy all these with the least amount of money. A room here will cost you as less as INR 200 a night and a full meal at a café can cost as less as INR 100
2. Puducherry
Another scenic destination in India, Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry) is a popular place to visit in the country. You can find accommodation for the least amount of money or even free if you book a place in an ashram well in advance. Enjoy the stay without having to spend a dime and even the food will barely cost you anything. The best way to explore Puducherry is on foot so even that will save you precious bucks. You can walk at your own pace and see the marvelous French architecture the place is so famous for.
3. Pushkar, Rajasthan
A small town in the state of Rajasthan, Pushkar is actually one of the biggest attractions in the country. Generally, people club their visit to Pushkar along with Ajmer and go to famous places like the Brahma Temple as well as the Lake where one can watch Hindu rituals being performed. Famous for being a religious site, the ancient temples in Pushkar hold historical value as well. A room here can cost a low as INR 200 and even the food served at the local Bhojanalayas will barely cost you a few bucks.
4. Cherrapunjee
Famous for being one of the wettest places in the world, Cherrapunjee is as beautiful as it is affordable. A room in one of the hostels here can cost you about INR 250 a night and a visit to the exquisite living root bridges of Meghalaya will barely cost you anything. Even the delicious food served at small establishments here is incredibly reasonable. Trekking is the most popular thing to do here and all it takes is permission from authorities in certain cases, a few bucks, and physical effort.
5. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
One of the most popular and scenic hill stations of South India, Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is as cheap as it can get. From being able to find neat accommodations for as low as INR 200 to incredibly cheap food, Kodaikanal offers you the chance to enjoy your vacation without it being a burden on your wallet. The scenic hill station is one of the most popular places to visit in India and is a preferred location for all types of travelers, be it honeymooners, families, or a bunch of friends.
6. Kheerganga, Himachal Pradesh
An absolute must-visit destination for travelers backpacking through India, Kheerganga offers incredible attractions such as hot water springs, snowcapped peaks, and countless trekking trails. You can enjoy all these while spending the least amount of money with accommodation costing as low as INR 150 per night at a Dharamsala. Local food is incredibly cheap as well and you get great value for the money you spend. This is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places you can visit without it becoming a financial burden on you.
