How To Travel On A Budget In India: Smart Money Tips

India is extremely diverse in terms of its landscapes, cultures, and cuisines, and because of this, it offers travel experiences of all price ranges for every budget.

The right planning can allow you to travel economically to your desired travel destination in India, be it the misty Himachal mountains, the regal palaces of Rajasthan, or the relaxing backwaters of Kerala.

In this article, I will explain in detail how you can travel in India economically. I will cover transportation, accommodation, food, and activities to help you maximize your experiences while minimizing your budget.

1. Plan Ahead — But Stay Flexible

Budget travel starts planning and preparation long before the actual travel days. If you begin planning your trip early

You will be able to purchase your train or flight tickets for a cheaper price, book your accommodation for a lower price, and have greater control over your trip itinerary.

Though early planning is advantageous, it is equally important to ensure itinerary flexibility. If you travel on weekdays instead of the weekend, or during the off-season months (July to September), it can save you a lot of money.

Budget travel also compares and assesses travel costs, helping you choose the most affordable options for various means of transport.

If your travel dates are flexible, you can use the cheapest month feature on flight applications to find the best prices.

Some apps you can use include** IRCTC, Skyscanner,** and  Cleartrip. This feature will help you find economically friendly travel, so you are able to book your travel well in advance.

2. Travel Like a Local

Transportation covers a significant portion of any trip budget. The best way to lower this cost is to travel like a local.

Utilizing the Indian railway system is both cost effective and gives you a beautiful view of the countryside.

Consider taking sleeper or 3AC class long-distance trains as a substitute for costly flights. For smaller distances, state transport buses, and shared jeeps are affordable and very dependable.

Once in a city, you can use any of the metro systems (like in Delhi, Kolkata, or Bengaluru) or order auto-rickshaws through apps like Ola and Rapido

Which lets you check pricing. You can also walk, or to further your exploration, rent a bicycle or scooter, or any other lightweight vehicle.

3. Choose Budget Accommodation

Disregard the need for luxurious hotels. India has distinctive budget accommodation options which are very comfortable. Zostel and Booking.com have budget hostels, homestays, and guesthouses tailored to backpackers.

For example, Zostel has almost all the significant travel destination and provides dorms for 500 to 800 rupees. For people who like more privacy, you can book rooms and family guesthouses or home stays and have some local hospitality and food.

If you’re considering a longer stay somewhere, volunteering is another excellent option. Platforms such as Workaway or WWOOF India provide opportunities where travelers can work a few hours a day in exchange for accommodation and meals.

4. Eat Local — Avoid Tourist Traps

Food is an important aspect of experiencing India culturally, and fortunately, one can have a rich gastronomical experience at a low cost. To have an authentic meal, avoid overpriced eateries and head to small local restaurants, roadside dhabas, or street food kiosks.

You can get a plate of chole bhature in Delhi, vada pav in Mumbai, or idli sambar in Chennai for under ₹100. Eating at these places is not only easy on the pocket, but you’ll also experience the regional delicacies celebrating the country’s culinary diversity.

When in doubt, follow the crowd — if a street food vendor is busy, the food is likely to be good and clean. Water refilling stations are available in India, so carry a refillable water bottle and refill at public water filters.

5. Explore Free and Low-Cost Attractions

India presents a variety of low-cost attractions all over the country. Numerous temples, parks, beaches, and heritage sites can be enjoyed for free or have a small fee.

In Delhi, you can discover India Gate, Lodhi Gardens, and Humayun’s Tomb, and while in Jaipur, you can check out Hawa Mahal or the vibrant local markets.

If you prefer natural surroundings, the cheap village stays and trek routes in Himachal Pradesh or Sikkim will be very appealing to you.

Participate in local festivals and cultural fairs to enjoy the music and traditions for little or no cost. Also, there are festivals like Holi, Durga Puja, or Pongal which you can attend to celebrate the spirit of India and enjoy the festivities at no cost.

6. Travel Cards and Apps are Game Changer

When it comes to traveling on a budget, there are a number of digital tools available. You can go cashless and skip the hassle of exchanging currency by using payment apps like PhonePe, Paytm, or Google Pay.

For navigation, you have Google Maps and Maps.me, and to keep track of your daily budget, you can use TripMoney or Trail Wallet.

Most states have tourist passes as well, like the Delhi Metro Tourist Cards or Rajasthan City Passes which provide unlimited rides and multiple discounts on attractions.

7. Travel Slow and Smart

Instead of quickly bouncing around cities, consider slow travel. Spend some quality time in a few chosen places.

This will ultimately give you a good understanding of each location and allow you to save on transportation.

For instance, why would you want to quickly go through Goa in two days when you can spend a week enjoying and digging, focusing on its remote, and at times neglected, coastlines, its intimate, provincial, predominantly seaside markets, and its lively flea markets?

Slow travel will also give you the time to build valuable relationships in the region, which will save you money on lodgings and offer priceless companionship.

Conclusion

Incredible India on a budget does not mean cutting corners; it’s cutting the right ones. Every decision, on local trains, or roadside shacks, and eating on the go, will save money, which in turn will give you the right Indian experience.

Thoughtful planning and a kind heart will give you the freedom to explore India’s limitless landscape while it stays kind to your pocket.

So, relax your body, and free your mind, as you let India’s diversity unfold before your. One incredible adventure at a time.

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