1. Nepal
Nepal is one of the most accessible and budget-friendly countries for Indian travellers. You can cross the border by road or catch an affordable flight to Kathmandu. Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter, which saves both time and money. From exploring historic temples in Kathmandu to boating on Phewa Lake in Pokhara or enjoying Himalayan views from Nagarkot, Nepal offers a lot for very little. Budget hotels are easy to find, local food is delicious and cheap, and you can even try a mountain flight if you stretch your budget slightly.
Estimated Budget: ₹30000 to ₹35000
Ideal Time to Visit: October to March
Trip Duration: 4 to 5 days
2. Bhutan
Bhutan is a peaceful Himalayan kingdom known for its natural beauty and unique cultural vibe. Indian citizens can enter Bhutan without a visa and only need to pay a small Sustainable Development Fee. You can travel to Paro and Thimphu where you'll find stunning monasteries, scenic valleys, and a pace of life that makes you want to slow down. The food is spicy and flavourful, and budget homestays offer warm hospitality. Public transport is limited, but shared taxis are affordable.
Estimated Budget: ₹35000 to ₹40000
Ideal Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Trip Duration: 5 to 6 days
3. Sri Lanka
Just a short flight from South India, Sri Lanka is full of beaches, temples, wildlife, and culture. You can roam around Colombo for shopping and food, visit Kandy for its heritage sites, or relax on the beaches of Bentota and Mirissa. Flights booked in advance often cost under ₹20000 roundtrip. Clean guesthouses and hostels are available for less than ₹1000 a night, and local transport is very economical. Sri Lanka also has great food, from spicy curries to fresh seafood.
Estimated Budget: ₹35000 to ₹40000
Ideal Time to Visit: December to April on the west and south coast, May to September on the east coast
Trip Duration: 5 days
4. Thailand
Thailand continues to be one of the most affordable and popular countries for Indians travelling internationally. You can find cheap return flights to Bangkok or Phuket, and budget-friendly hotels and hostels are everywhere. Thai street food is world-famous and extremely low-cost. You can explore bustling city markets, golden temples, white sand beaches, and party streets without spending a fortune. Visa on arrival is available for Indians, making the process convenient.
Estimated Budget: ₹35000 to ₹40000
Ideal Time to Visit: November to February
Trip Duration: 5 days
5. Vietnam
Vietnam is rapidly becoming a go-to destination for Indians who want an affordable and culturally rich holiday. Flights to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi can sometimes be booked under ₹20000 if planned early. The local cost of living is very low. A bowl of pho can cost less than ₹100, and decent hostels or hotels can be booked between ₹500 and ₹800 per night. You can explore French colonial buildings, scenic bays, ancient temples, and buzzing markets, all without breaking your budget.
Estimated Budget: ₹38000 to ₹40000
Ideal Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Trip Duration: 5 to 6 days
A limited budget does not mean you have to compromise on experiences. These destinations prove that you can travel abroad, make memories, and explore new cultures without overspending. All it takes is smart planning, a bit of research, and a flexible mindset.
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