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Top 10 Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations in India for 2025
India has been a dream destination for people around the world, with its rich cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions. This country offers the most diverse range of experiences – from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, bustling cities to serene villages. For travelers who want to explore India without breaking the bank, there are several budget-friendly destinations that provide a fantastic travel experience without compromising on quality. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 budget friendly travel destinations in India for 2025. 1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – The Yoga Capital of the World Rishikesh is famous for its spiritual atmosphere and adventure sports, as it is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, along the banks of the Ganges River. The town is well-known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” attracting travelers looking for peace, wellness, and a chance to rejuvenate their minds and bodies. Ganga Aarti Rishikesh Timing is between 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Why Rishikesh is Budget-Friendly: Affordable Accommodation: Hostels, guesthouses, and ashrams range as low as INR 500–1000 per night. Yoga & Wellness: Several yoga centers offer affordable packages for beginners, and meditation sessions can be found at minimal costs too. Street Food: Local eateries and food joints offer budget-friendly chaat, parathas, and fruit chaat. Must-Do Activities: Visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula Be a part of Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat White-water rafting on the Ganges 2. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh – A Peaceful Himalayan Retreat McLeod Ganj is a peaceful hill station located in the lap of Dharamshala, which offers a storehouse of Tibetan culture, various monasteries, and stunning mountain views, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers looking for a perfect blend of culture and nature. Why McLeod Ganj is Budget-Friendly: Low-Cost Lodging: Budget hotels and homestays are available for INR 700–1500 per night. Affordable Food: Tibetan and Indian food at local cafes is available for as little as INR 100–300 per meal. Outdoor Activities: Treks like the Triund Trek are budget-friendly and offer panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains. Things to Do in McLeod Ganj: Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Trek to Triund Explore the Tibetan Market Relax at Bhagsu Waterfall 3. Gokarna, Karnataka – A Budget-Friendly Beach Destination Gokarna is a lesser-known beach town on the western coast of India that is less commercialized than Goa. It offers a laid-back and peaceful atmosphere compared to Goa. Gokarna beach resorthas a peaceful vibe, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers who are looking for a beach escape without the crowds. Why Gokarna is Budget-Friendly: Budget Accommodation: Beachside guesthouses and simple homestays can be found starting at INR 500–1000 per night. Street Food: Seafood and South Indian meals are available at the beachside cafes for as low as INR 100–250. Affordable Transportation: Public buses and cheap rickshaws are easily available to move around. Things to Do: Relax on Om Beach and Kudle Beach Visit Mirjan Fort Explore the hidden beaches Attend a beach bonfire party 4. Jaipur, Rajasthan – The Pink City on a Budget Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a bustling city full of history, culture, and grandeur. With its royal palaces, forts, and vibrant markets, Jaipur offers a cultural experience without straining your wallet. Why Jaipur is Budget-Friendly: Affordable Hotels: Best budget hotels in Jaipur and hostels start from INR 600–1500 per night. Street Food: Local food stalls offer tasty treats like pyaaz kachori, samosas, and lassi for INR 50–100. Sightseeing: Entry fees to many forts and palaces are reasonable, with some offering discounts for students. Must-Do Activities: Visit the Amber Fort and City Palace Explore Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) Shop at Johari Bazaar Take a walk in the old city’s pink lanes 5. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Spirituality and History on the Ganges One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi, is one of the most important spiritual and cultural centers. Famous ghats, temples, and aartis performed on the banks of the Ganges make Varanasi an authentic India experience of spirituality and ancient history. Ganga aarti time in Varanasiin Summer is from 5am to 7 am, and in winters is from 5:30am to 7:30am. Why Varanasi is Budget-Friendly: Budget Accommodations: You will find a good number of budget hotels and guest houses available near the ghats in the range of INR 400-1000 per night Street Food: Varanasi is quite famous for the street food it offers, such as chaats, lassi, and kachori. Everything is quite affordable. Experiences: Exploring the ghats and attending the Ganga Aarti is free of cost, and there are many budget-friendly temples to visit. Must-Do Activities: Ganges Boat ride at Sunrise Kashi Vishwanath Temple visit Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat Stroll down narrow alleys in the old town 6. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India Coorg is a budget-friendly hill station in South India, known for its coffee plantations, lush greenery, and scenic landscapes. The region is ideal for those who want to experience nature, adventure, and local culture at a low cost. Why Coorg is Budget-Friendly: Affordable Stays: Budget homestays, guesthouses, and lodges can be found for INR 600–1500 per night. Cheap Local Food: Pandi curry and Akki rotti at local eateries cost between INR 150–300 per meal. Low-Cost Transportation: Taxis and buses can be used for traveling around Coorg. Things to Do: Visit the coffee plantations Coorg Trekking to the top of Brahmagiri Hills Explore Abbey Falls Visit the Namdroling Monastery 7. Hampi, Karnataka – Ruins, Culture, and History on a Budget Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a village in Karnataka with remarkable ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. Boulders and temples merge into surreal landscapes here, making it a very unique destination for history enthusiasts and adventure lovers. Why Hampi is Budget-Friendly: Cheap Accommodation: The budget stay in Hampihostels and guesthouses can be found starting from as low as INR 300–800 per night. Cheap Eats: South Indian food in local eateries is available for as low as