Are you eager to explore international destinations from India without burning a hole in your pocket? This isn’t your typical list of travel spots. We’re here to introduce you to a diverse selection of value-for-money destinations across various regions. From enchanting monasteries in Nepal to vibrant markets in Southeast Asia, and offbeat gems, we’ve scoured different corners of the globe to bring you a bunch of budget-friendly travel options.
So, if you’re seeking an extraordinary experience without the extravagant price tag, you’re in the right place. Let’s discover these top 10 cheapest countries to travel from India.
Introduction
Travelling abroad is a dream for many, but budget constraints often hold us back. However, with careful planning and research, it’s possible to explore stunning destinations without breaking the bank. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the top 10 cheapest countries to travel from India, offering insights into accommodation, transportation, cuisine, sightseeing, and more. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance, or a family on a budget, these destinations have something special to offer. Let’s embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and adventure!
Vietnam: Exploring the Land of Contrasts
Mesmerizing Landscapes and Rich History
Vietnam, with its emerald rice terraces and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From cruising on Halong Bay to trekking in Sapa, there’s something for every traveler.
Accommodation: Look for affordable options in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and near Bui Vien Walking Street in Ho Chi Minh City.
Transportation: Local buses and taxis are economical choices for getting around.
Cuisine: Indulge in Banh-Mi sandwiches and the iconic Pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup.
Sightseeing: Explore Halong Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the Cu Chi Tunnels for a glimpse into Vietnam’s history and natural wonders.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND), with INR 1 = VND 295.
Best Season: Visit from February to April for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Ideal Duration: A 10-14 day trip offers ample time to explore the country.
Ideal Travel Type: Perfect for couples and families seeking culture, nature, and adventure.
Must-pack Item: Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration and trekking.
In A Nutshell
Vietnam offers a budget-friendly cultural experience, with meals as cheap as INR 80. Ideal for a 10-14 day visit during the spring season.
Thailand: The Land of Smiles
Pristine Beaches and Vibrant Culture
Thailand’s allure lies in its pristine beaches, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. From exploring Bangkok’s vibrant streets to relaxing on the Thai islands, there’s no shortage of experiences in this Southeast Asian gem.
Accommodation: Affordable options can be found in Khao San area in Bangkok and Old Town in Phuket.
Transportation: Explore local buses and taxis for convenient travel.
Cuisine: Indulge in Pad Thai and Khao Suey, along with a variety of street food delights.
Sightseeing: Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok, explore the temples of Chiang Mai, and relax on the beaches of Phuket.
Currency: Thai Baht (THB), with THB 1 = INR 2.32.
Best Season: November to February offers cool and dry weather, ideal for exploration.
Ideal Duration: A one-week trip allows you to experience the diversity of Thailand.
Ideal Travel Type: Suitable for couples, families, and friends seeking beach, culture, and nightlife.
Must-pack Item: Sunscreen and swimwear for beach outings.
In A Nutshell
Thailand offers affordable luxury, with meals as cheap as THB 90-130. Ideal for a one-week visit during the cool and dry season.
Laos: Serenity Amidst Nature
Untouched Landscapes and Spiritual Tranquility
Laos, a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, offers serene escapes for travelers seeking untouched beauty and spiritual experiences. From exploring Luang Prabang’s ancient town to swimming in Kuang Si Falls, Laos promises an unforgettable journey.
Accommodation: Look for budget stays in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
Transportation: Tuk-tuks are economical for getting around locally.
Cuisine: Try Lao fried rice and Baguette sandwiches, along with a variety of night market delights.
Sightseeing: Explore Luang Prabang’s historic town, visit Kuang Si Falls, and experience the stunning karst landscapes of Vang Vieng.
Currency: Lao Kip (LAK), with INR 1 ≈ LAK 249.87.
Best Season: October to February offers the best weather for exploration.
Ideal Duration: 7-10 days allows you to experience the highlights of Laos.
Ideal Travel Type: Perfect for friends and adventurous travelers who enjoy nature and culture.
Must-pack Item: Lightweight clothing for the warm climate.
In A Nutshell
Laos offers serene beauty and cultural experiences, with meals as cheap as ₹200. Ideal for a 7-10 day visit during the cool and dry season.
Sri Lanka: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean
History, Wildlife, and Coastal Beauty
Sri Lanka, known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” offers a rich tapestry of history, wildlife, and coastal beauty. From exploring ancient cities to safari adventures in Yala, Sri Lanka promises a diverse range of experiences.
Accommodation: Budget options are available across the island.
Transportation: Tuk-tuks and local buses are cost-effective for travel.
Cuisine: Indulge in Rice and Curry and fresh seafood delights.
Sightseeing: Climb Sigiriya Rock, explore the temples of Kandy, and relax on the beaches of Mirissa.
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), with 1 INR ≈ LKR 3.93.
Best Season: December to April offers dry weather, ideal for exploration.
Ideal Duration: Plan for 7-14 days to experience the island fully.
Ideal Travel Type: Suitable for couples, families, and nature enthusiasts.
Must-pack Item: Insect repellent for tropical areas.
In A Nutshell
Sri Lanka promises history, wildlife, and coastal beauty, with meals as cheap as ₹230. Ideal for a 7-14 day visit during the dry season.
Nepal: Adventure in the Himalayas
Majestic Mountains and Spiritual Journeys
Nepal beckons adventurers with its awe-inspiring mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From trekking to Everest Base Camp to exploring the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal offers a spiritual journey amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Affordable stays can be booked in Kathmandu.
Transportation: Local buses and taxis are economical for travel.
Cuisine: Try Nepali staples like Dal Bhat and Momos.
Sightseeing: Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, trek in the Annapurna Region, and relax in Pokhara.
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR), with 1 INR ≈ NPR 1.60.
Best Season: Autumn (September to November) offers clear skies and pleasant weather.
Ideal Duration: 10-20 days for trekking and cultural experiences.
Ideal Travel Type: Perfect for adventurous friends and nature lovers.
Must-pack Item: High-quality hiking boots for treks.
In A Nutshell
Nepal promises mountain adventures and cultural experiences, with meals as cheap as ₹219. Ideal for a 10-20 day visit during the autumn or spring season.
UAE: Modern Marvels and Desert Landscapes
Glittering Skyscrapers and Cultural Experiences
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, with its glittering skyscrapers, bustling souks, and expansive deserts. From exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa to experiencing the tranquility of the desert, the UAE promises a unique travel experience.
Accommodation: Look for budget hotels in areas like Deira in Dubai and Al Fahidi in Abu Dhabi.
Transportation: Utilize the metro and local buses for affordable travel within cities.
Cuisine: Explore traditional Emirati cuisine and indulge in international delights.
Sightseeing: Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore the Dubai Mall, and embark on a desert safari in the dunes.
Currency: UAE Dirham (AED), with 1 INR ≈ AED 0.21.
Best Season: October to April offers cooler weather, ideal for outdoor activities.
Ideal Duration: 3-7 days for exploring the main attractions.
Ideal Travel Type: Suitable for couples, families, and luxury travelers.
Must-pack Item: Light and modest clothing suitable for the local culture.
In A Nutshell
The UAE offers modern marvels and desert landscapes, with meals costing around ₹450. Ideal for a 3-7 day visit during the cooler months.
Uzbekistan: Timeless Silk Road Treasures
Rich History and Architectural Splendors
Uzbekistan, a land steeped in history and culture, offers travelers a glimpse into its rich past along the ancient Silk Road. From exploring the majestic Registan Square to marveling at the intricate tilework of Samarkand, Uzbekistan promises an immersive journey through time.
Accommodation: Budget hotels and guesthouses are available in cities like Tashkent and Samarkand.
Transportation: Opt for local transport options like buses and shared taxis for cost-effective travel.
Cuisine: Sample traditional Uzbek dishes like Plov and Samsa, along with Central Asian specialties.
Sightseeing: Explore the historic cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, and visit ancient Silk Road landmarks.
Currency: Uzbekistani Som (UZS), with 1 INR ≈ UZS 91.50.
Best Season: March to early June offers pleasant weather for sightseeing.
Ideal Duration: Plan for 7-10 days to explore the main attractions.
Ideal Travel Type: Perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Must-pack Item: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites.
In A Nutshell
Uzbekistan promises timeless treasures along the Silk Road, with meals costing around ₹200. Ideal for a 7-10 day visit during the spring season.
Kyrgyzstan: Adventure in the Mountains
Alpine Landscapes and Nomadic Culture
Kyrgyzstan, a land of rugged mountains and nomadic traditions, offers travelers the chance to explore its pristine natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. From trekking in the Tien Shan mountains to staying in traditional yurts, Kyrgyzstan promises an unforgettable adventure.
Accommodation: Stay in guesthouses or yurts for an authentic experience.
Transportation: Utilize shared taxis and marshrutkas (minibuses) for travel between cities.
Cuisine: Enjoy hearty Kyrgyz dishes like Laghman and Manti, along with nomadic specialties.
Sightseeing: Explore the Ala Archa National Park, visit the Issyk-Kul Lake, and experience traditional Kyrgyz culture.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS), with 1 INR ≈ KGS 1.02.
Best Season: June to September offers warm weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
Ideal Duration: Plan for 7-14 days to explore the mountainous landscapes.
Ideal Travel Type: Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Must-pack Item: Warm clothing and hiking gear for mountain adventures.
In A Nutshell
Kyrgyzstan offers alpine adventures and nomadic culture, with meals costing around ₹200. Ideal for a 7-14 day visit during the summer months.
Georgia: A Blend of History and Hospitality
Wine Regions and Mountain Vistas
Georgia, nestled between Europe and Asia, offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality. From exploring the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi to savoring the flavors of Georgian wine in Kakheti, Georgia promises a memorable journey through its diverse landscapes.
Accommodation: Look for budget guesthouses and homestays for an authentic experience.
Transportation: Utilize marshrutkas and trains for affordable travel between cities.
Cuisine: Indulge in Georgian staples like Khachapuri and Khinkali, along with local wine and cheese.
Sightseeing: Explore Tbilisi’s Old Town, visit the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, and discover the vineyards of Kakheti.
Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL), with 1 INR ≈ GEL 0.023.
Best Season: May to September offers pleasant weather for exploration.
Ideal Duration: Plan for 7-10 days to experience the highlights of Georgia.
Ideal Travel Type: Suitable for friends and wine enthusiasts.
Must-pack Item: An empty stomach for indulging in Georgian feasts.
In A Nutshell
Georgia promises history, hospitality, and wine, with meals costing around ₹350. Ideal for a 7-10 day visit during the warmer months.
Egypt: Land of Ancient Wonders
Pyramids, Temples, and Nile Cruises
Egypt, home to ancient wonders and timeless treasures, offers travelers a journey through the cradle of civilization. From marveling at the pyramids of Giza to cruising along the Nile River, Egypt promises an immersive experience in history and culture.
Accommodation: Look for budget hotels and hostels in Cairo and Luxor.
Transportation: Utilize local trains and buses for affordable travel between cities.
Cuisine: Sample Egyptian street food like Koshary and Ful Medames, along with traditional dishes like Kushari.
Sightseeing: Explore the Pyramids of Giza, visit the temples of Luxor, and cruise along the Nile River.
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP), with 1 INR ≈ EGP 0.18.
Best Season: October to April offers cooler weather, ideal for sightseeing.
Ideal Duration: Plan for 7-10 days to explore the main attractions.
Ideal Travel Type: Perfect for history buffs and families.
Must-pack Item: Sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.
In A Nutshell
Egypt promises ancient wonders and cultural experiences, with meals costing around ₹250. Ideal for a 7-10 day visit during the cooler months.
Conclusion
Traveling abroad doesn’t have to be expensive, especially when you have a diverse range of budget-friendly destinations to choose from. Whether you’re craving adventure in the mountains of Nepal, relaxation on the beaches of Thailand, or exploration of ancient wonders in Egypt, there’s a perfect destination waiting for you. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can embark on an unforgettable journey without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and set off on your next budget-friendly adventure!