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Best Budget-Friendly Travel: Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit from India

Last Update: 25-09-2024

Traveler enjoying lakeside mountain view.

Travelling internationally doesn’t have to break the bank! For Indian travellers, there are plenty of cheap travel destinations that offer incredible experiences without high costs. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, the top 10 cheapest countries to travel from India provide the perfect balance of affordability and excitement. From visa-free destinations like Bhutan and Nepal to budget-friendly countries like Sri Lanka and Vietnam, these low budget countries to visit from India offer affordable flights, accommodation, and activities. In this blog, I’ll share some of the world's cheapest countries to travel from India, so you can start planning your next vacation without worrying about your wallet.

List of 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit from India


  1. Thailand
  2. Nepal
  3. Bhutan
  4. Vietnam
  5. Sri Lanka
  6. Azerbaijan
  7. Kazakhstan
  8. Malaysia
  9. Taiwan
  10. Myanmar

Thailand


Bustling city street with neon signs.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹60,000 to ₹80,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹15,000 to ₹25,000

Visa Costs

No visa required until November 2024

Accommodation Costs

₹900 to ₹2,500 per night

Food Costs

₹200 to ₹1,000 per meal

Other Activities

₹1000 to ₹8000

Local Transportation

₹200 to ₹500 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • For a 7-day trip to Thailand, you can expect to spend between ₹60,000 to ₹80,000, depending on your travel style. This cost includes flights, accommodation, food, and activities.

Flight Costs

  • Flights from India to Thailand are quite affordable. You can find round-trip flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other major cities to Bangkok, Phuket or Krabi.
  • Price range: ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 for a round-trip ticket.
  • Budget airlines: AirAsia, IndiGo and Malaysian Airlines

Money-saving tip

Book flights at least 20 to 30 days prior to your trip to get the best deals. While Bangkok and Krabi are popular options, consider booking flights to Phuket as it may offer cheaper fares

Visa Costs

  • Thailand is visa-free for Indian travellers, helping you save on visa costs. Just make sure you have a valid passport, as it's a mandatory requirement for entry.

Accommodation Costs

  • In Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, you can find hostels for as low as ₹700 per night or comfortable budget hotels for around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per night.
  • Price range: ₹900 to ₹2,500 per night depending on the type and location of accommodation.
  • Popular budget-friendly areas include Khaosan Road in Bangkok and Old Town in Phuket.

Money-saving tip

Consider staying in guest houses or hostels to cut down on accommodation costs.

Food Costs

  • Thailand is famous for its delicious and affordable street food. From pad Thai to green curry, you can enjoy meals for as little as ₹150 at street stalls.
  • Price per meal: ₹200 to ₹300 for street food; ₹500 to ₹1,000 for meals at casual restaurants.

Top Activities/Experiences:

  • Visit the Grand Palace, Bangkok: ₹700 to ₹1,000
  • Explore Phi Phi Islands by boat: ₹2,500 to ₹4,000
  • Elephant Sanctuary Visit, Chiang Mai: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000
  • Floating Market Tour: ₹1,000 to ₹1,500
  • Scuba Diving in Koh Tao: ₹6,000 to ₹8,000

Local Transportation Costs

  • Use tuk-tuks, buses, metros, and shared taxis to get around.
  • Public transport: The Bangkok BTS Skytrain and MRT are great options for getting around the city, costing between ₹20 to ₹80 per ride.
  • Price range: ₹200 to ₹500 per day for local transport.

Nepal


Snowy mountain landscape with prayer flags.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹20,000 to ₹35,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹12,000 to ₹17,000

Visa Costs

Visa free for Indians

Accommodation Costs

₹500 to ₹1,500 per night

Food Costs

₹100 to ₹300 per meal

Other Activities

₹100 to ₹10,000

Local Transportation

₹200 to ₹500 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • For a 7-day trip to Nepal, you can expect to spend between ₹20,000 to ₹35,000, making it one of the cheapest travel destinations from India.

Flight Costs

  • Flights from India to Nepal are reasonably priced, with round-trip options to and from Kathmandu. Delhi is often a better choice compared to other cities in India.
  • Price range: ₹12,000 to ₹17,000 for a round-trip ticket.
  • Budget airlines: IndiGo and Air India

Money-saving tip

A road trip to Nepal can be an even cheaper alternative. A road journey from states like Bihar and Uttarakhand can take around 10 to 15 hours.

Visa Costs

  • Indians do not need a visa to visit Nepal. And the best part? You don’t even need a passport—just a valid government ID card will do the trick!

Accommodation Costs

  • Budget accommodation is readily available, especially in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini.
  • Price range: ₹500 to ₹1,500 per night.

Food Costs

  • Enjoy affordable local Nepali food like momos, dal bhat, and thukpa.
  • Price per meal: ₹100 to ₹300.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹500 to ₹800.

Top Activities/Experiences:

  • Trekking in the Annapurna Region: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 (permits included)
  • Mount Everest Flight Tour: ₹12,000 to ₹15,000
  • Visit Boudhanath Stupa: ₹100 to ₹300
  • Boating on Phewa Lake, Pokhara: ₹300 to ₹500

Local Transportation Costs

  • Local buses and taxis are the primary means of transportation in Nepal.
  • Price range: ₹200 to ₹500 per day for transportation.

Bhutan


Traditional temple buildings surrounded by lush forest.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹35,000 to ₹45,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹18,000 to ₹28,000

Visa Costs

Visa free for Indians

Accommodation Costs

₹1,200 to ₹2,000 per night

Food Costs

₹150 to ₹500 per meal

Other Activities

₹500 to ₹2000

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹600 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Bhutan can cost between ₹35,000 to ₹45,000.

Flight Costs

  • Flights to Bhutan from India can be a bit pricier compared to non-Indian locations that operate flights to Paro. For instance, a one-way flight from Delhi starts at around ₹11,000, while economy flights from Bagdogra are more affordable, starting at ₹5,500. 
  • Price range: ₹18,000 to ₹28,000 for a round-trip.

Money-saving tip: Opt for train tickets instead

Rail travel is the most budget-friendly way to reach Bhutan from India. The nearest station to Jaigaon (the Indian border town) is Hasimara in West Bengal, with regular trains from Delhi, Kolkata, and Kanpur. Alternatively, you can travel to New Jalpaiguri and take a connecting train to Hasimara or a car/bus to Jaigaon.

Visa Costs

  • Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Bhutan, but you must carry a government ID card.

Accommodation Costs

  • Budget hotels and guesthouses are available across Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha.
  • Price range: ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 per night.

Food Costs

  • Bhutanese meals like Ema Datshi and Pork Momos are inexpensive.
  • Price per meal: ₹150 to ₹500.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹600 to ₹1,000.

Top Activities/Experiences:

  • Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery: ₹500
  • Visit Punakha Dzong: ₹500
  • Bhutanese Cultural Dance Show: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000
  • Hot Stone Bath Experience: ₹500 to ₹1,500

Local Transportation Costs

  • Taxis and buses are common in Bhutan for getting around.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹600 per day for local transport.

Vietnam


Rowboats lined up on a serene river.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹40,000 to ₹60,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹20,000 to ₹25,000

Visa Costs

₹2,000 for e-visa

Accommodation Costs

₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night

Food Costs

₹150 to ₹500 per meal

Other Activities

₹100 to ₹6,000

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹500 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Vietnam will cost between ₹40,000 to ₹60,000.

Flight Costs

  • Take Flights to Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi from Kolkata or New Delhi.
  • Price range: ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 for a round-trip.

Visa Costs


Accommodation Costs

  • Hostels and budget hotels are widely available across cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Da Nang.
  • Price range: ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night.

Food Costs

  • Enjoy Pho, Banh Mi, and other street food options.
  • Price per meal: ₹150 to ₹500.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹700 to ₹1,200.

Activities/Experiences:

  • Halong Bay Cruise: ₹3,500 to ₹6,000
  • Cu Chi Tunnels Tour, Ho Chi Minh City: ₹1,000 to ₹1,500
  • Explore Hoi An Ancient Town: ₹100 to ₹300
  • Cyclo Ride in Hanoi: ₹300 to ₹500

Local Transportation Costs

  • Use motorbike taxis, buses, or rideshare apps like Grab.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹500 per day.

Sri Lanka


Blue train passing through lush tea plantations.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹35,000 to ₹40,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹12,000 to ₹20,000

Visa Costs

₹4,000

Accommodation Costs

₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night

Food Costs

₹150 to ₹500 per meal

Other Activities

₹500 to ₹6,000

Local Transportation

₹200 to ₹500 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Sri Lanka will cost between ₹35,000 to ₹40,000.

Flight Costs

  • Price range: ₹12,000 to ₹20,000 for a round-trip.

Money-saving tip

Flight fares to Colombo from major Indian cities can vary significantly. For instance, booking a round-trip from Mumbai may cost around ₹25,000, while flights from Chennai or Bangalore are much cheaper, ranging from ₹13,000 to ₹18,000. To save on costs, consider flying from these more affordable cities if possible.

Visa Costs

  • Indians need an e-Visa for Sri Lanka.
  • Visa cost: ₹4000 (50 USD).

Accommodation Costs

  • Budget hotels and hostels are easy to find in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle.
  • Price range: ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night.

Food Costs

  • Enjoy Sri Lankan rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu.
  • Price per meal: ₹150 to ₹500.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹600 to ₹1,200.

Activities/Experiences:

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress Climb: ₹2,500 to ₹3,500
  • Yala National Park Safari: ₹4,000 to ₹6,000
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy: ₹300 to ₹500
  • Whale Watching in Mirissa: ₹4,000 to ₹5,000
  • Tea Plantation Tour in Nuwara Eliya: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000

Local Transportation Costs

  • Tuk-tuks and buses are the best options for getting around.
  • Price range: ₹200 to ₹500 per day.

Azerbaijan


Baku skyline and waterfront at sunset.

CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹70,000 to ₹90,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹30,000 to ₹40,000

Visa Costs

₹2,200

Accommodation Costs

₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per night

Food Costs

₹300 to ₹700 per meal

Other Activities

₹500 to ₹5,000

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹600 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Azerbaijan may cost around ₹70,000 to ₹90,000.

Flight Costs

  • Flights to Baku are available from all major cities in India, with the most affordable options departing from Mumbai, New Delhi, and Kochi. However, flights from Bangalore tend to be more expensive.
  • Price range: ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 for a round-trip.

Visa Costs


Accommodation Costs

  • Budget hotels and hostels are available in Baku.
  • Price range: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per night.

Food Costs

  • Enjoy Plov, Dolma, and Kebab.
  • Price per meal: ₹300 to ₹700.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500.

Activities/Experiences:

  • Gobustan Mud Volcanoes & Rock Art: ₹4,000 to ₹5,000
  • Baku Old City Walking Tour: ₹1,500 to ₹2,000
  • Fire Temple & Burning Mountain Tour: ₹2,500 to ₹3,500
  • Caspian Sea Boat Ride: ₹500 to ₹1,000
  • Visit Heydar Aliyev Center: ₹500 to ₹1,000

Local Transportation Costs

  • Metro, buses, and taxis are available for getting around.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹600 per day.

Kazakhstan


Snow-capped mountains with green valley.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹50,000 to ₹70,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹22,000 to ₹35,000

Visa Costs

₹2,200

Accommodation Costs

₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night

Food Costs

₹300 to ₹700 per meal

Other Activities

₹300 to ₹5,000

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹700 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Kazakhstan costs around ₹50,000 to ₹70,000.

Flight Costs

  • Book flights to Almaty from New Delhi at the most affordable rates compared to other major Indian cities. Other budget-friendly options include departures from Lucknow, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.
  • Price range: ₹22,000 to ₹35,000 for a round-trip.
  • Budget airlines: IndiGo and Air Astana

Visa Costs

  • Kazakhstan is visa free for Indians for up to 14 days. However, if you are planning a trip for more than 14 days you will be requiring a visa. Learn more about Kazakhstan visa for Indians.

Accommodation Costs

  • Budget hotels and hostels are available in Almaty and Astana.
  • Price range: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night.

Food Costs

  • Try Beshbarmak and other traditional Kazakh dishes.
  • Price per meal: ₹300 to ₹700.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹800 to ₹1,500.

Activities/Experiences:

  • Medeu Ice Skating Rink: ₹300 to ₹500
  • Big Almaty Lake Tour: ₹2,500 to ₹3,500
  • Kok Tobe Cable Car Ride: ₹300 to ₹500
  • Visit Shymbulak Ski Resort: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000

Local Transportation Costs

  • Use buses, taxis, or rideshare apps for local transport.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹700 per day.

Malaysia


Kuala Lumpur skyline with Petronas Towers.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹50,000 to ₹70,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹12,000 to ₹25,000

Visa Costs

Free of cost

Accommodation Costs

₹1,200 to ₹2,500 per night

Food Costs

₹250 to ₹500 per meal

Other Activities

₹500 to ₹2,500

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹600 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Malaysia can cost around ₹50,000 to ₹70,000.

Flight Costs

  • Price range: ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 for a round-trip.

Money-saving tip

Flights to Malaysia are quite affordable from Port Blair, with round-trip fares costing as low as ₹12,000. From other major Indian cities like Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai, round-trip tickets may range between ₹15,000 to ₹20,000.

Visa Costs


Accommodation Costs

  • Budget accommodation is easy to find in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
  • Price range: ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 per night.

Food Costs

  • Enjoy Nasi Lemak, Char Kway Teow, and other local dishes.
  • Price per meal: ₹250 to ₹500.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹700 to ₹1,200.

Activities/Experiences:

  • Petronas Twin Towers Skybridge: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500
  • Langkawi Island Hopping: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500
  • Batu Caves Tour: ₹500 to ₹700
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park: ₹2,500 to ₹3,500
  • Genting Highlands Cable Car Ride: ₹300 to ₹500

Local Transportation Costs

  • Use the MRT, LRT, or buses for local transport.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹600 per day.

Taiwan


Hilltop village with lit cafes.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹70,000 to ₹90,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹30,000 to ₹40,000

Visa Costs

₹3,000

Accommodation Costs

₹2,500 to ₹3,500 per night

Food Costs

₹300 to ₹600 per meal

Other Activities

₹200 to ₹2,500

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹600 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Taiwan costs around ₹45,000 to ₹60,000.

Flight Costs

  • Take flights from major cities in India to Koahsiung or Taoyuan instead of Taipei.
  • Price range: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 for a round-trip.
  • Budget airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways

Visa Costs

  • A Taiwan visa costs around ₹3,000.

Accommodation Costs

  • Budget accommodation is available in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung.
  • Price range: ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 per night.

Food Costs

  • Taiwan offers a wide range of street food, from bubble tea to beef noodles.
  • Price per meal: ₹200 to ₹600.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹800 to ₹1,500.

Activities/Experiences:

  • Visit Taipei 101 Observatory: ₹1,000 to ₹1,500
  • Soak in Beitou Hot Springs: ₹800 to ₹1,500
  • Jiufen Old Street Tour: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500
  • Tea Tasting at Pinglin Tea Museum: ₹200 to ₹500

Local Transportation Costs

  • Taiwan has an excellent public transport system, including buses and metros.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹600 per day.

Myanmar


Ancient temples surrounded by lush greenery.


CategoryCost Range

Total Trip Cost

₹35,000 to ₹50,000

Flight Costs (Round trip)

₹20,000 to ₹30,000

Visa Costs

₹4,000

Accommodation Costs

₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night

Food Costs

₹200 to ₹500 per meal

Other Activities

₹200 to ₹15,000

Local Transportation

₹300 to ₹700 per day

Total Trip Cost Breakdown

  • A 7-day trip to Myanmar may cost between ₹35,000 to ₹50,000.

Flight Costs

  • Flights from India to Yangon or Mandalay are moderate.
  • Price range: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 for a round-trip.

Other Cheap ways to enter Myanmar

  • Fly to Aizawl and then drive to Myanmar
  • Myanmar by road: Cross from Moreh (India) to Tamu (Myanmar). Take a local taxi from Imphal to Moreh, then walk across the border and catch a bus to Mandalay.

Visa Costs

  • Indians need to apply for a Myanmar tourist visa.
  • Visa cost: ₹4,000

Accommodation Costs

  • Budget accommodation is easy to find in Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake.
  • Price range: ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night.

Top Activities/Experiences:

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride over Bagan: ₹15,000 to ₹25,000
  • Visit Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon: ₹300 to ₹500
  • Inle Lake Boat Tour: ₹1,000 to ₹1,500
  • U Bein Bridge Sunset Tour: ₹200 to ₹500
  • Mandalay Royal Palace: ₹300 to ₹500

Food Costs

  • Street food is both affordable and delicious, including dishes like Mohinga and Burmese Curry.
  • Price per meal: ₹200 to ₹500.
  • Daily food expenses: around ₹600 to ₹1,200.

Local Transportation Costs

  • Taxis and buses are the primary transport options.
  • Price range: ₹300 to ₹700 per day.

Summing it up

Exploring the cheapest foreign countries to visit from India is not only possible but can also be incredibly rewarding. From the vibrant streets of Thailand to the serene landscapes of Kazakhstan, these budget-friendly countries to visit from India offer a variety of experiences at a fraction of the cost. With affordable flights, no visa hassles, and budget accommodations, these destinations are perfect for anyone looking to travel without spending a fortune. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the top 10 cheapest countries to travel from India have something for every type of traveller. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next trip to one of these cheap destinations to travel from India today!

FAQs

Which is the cheapest country to travel from India?

Nepal is often considered the cheapest country to travel from India. With affordable flights, visa-free entry, and low-cost accommodations, it's a perfect destination for budget-conscious travellers.

What is the cheapest country to visit from India without a visa?

Nepal, Bhutan, Malaysia and Kazakhstan  are some of the cheapest countries to visit from India without a visa. Indian nationals can travel visa-free to Bhutan, making it a great option for a low-cost international trip.

What are the top 10 cheapest countries to travel from India?

The top 10 cheapest countries to travel from India include Thailand, Nepal, Bhutan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, and Indonesia. These countries offer affordable flights, accommodation, and food, making them ideal for budget travellers.

Which are the best budget-friendly countries to visit from India?

The best budget-friendly countries to visit from India are Thailand, Nepal, and Vietnam. These destinations offer a perfect mix of low-cost flights, affordable accommodations, and cheap local food.

Which country is cheap to travel from India for a week-long vacation?

Vietnam is a great option for a cheap destination to travel from India for a week-long vacation. It offers affordable flights, cheap accommodation, and a variety of activities to suit every travel style.

Which are the cheapest foreign countries to visit from India for adventure activities?

Nepal and Bhutan are among the cheapest foreign countries to visit for adventure activities like trekking, hiking, and river rafting. Both countries offer a range of budget-friendly outdoor experiences.

Which are the cheapest places to travel outside India for cultural experiences?

Cambodia and Myanmar are excellent cheap places to travel outside India for rich cultural experiences. Both countries have affordable travel options and are known for their historical sites and temples.

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