20 Low-Budget & Cheap Places To Visit In India This Year

Posted on Monday, August 7th, 2023 by Heena Ganotra Leave a Comment

Are you looking for a vacation on a low budget in India? Well, in that case, the list of cheap places to visit in India is definitely going to excite you. Whether you are looking to explore its history and culture or just relax on the beach, there’s always something interesting in this incredible country to explore. So, if you are finding ways to save money on your trip to India, we’ve crunched the cheapest places to travel in India below. There are innumerable cheap and best places to visit in India where you don’t have to spend a lot of money and can still have an enjoyable and memorable vacation. 

From ancient ruins to trendy nightlife districts, there’s always something new to explore in India. And, you can find decent hotel rooms for as little as INR 500 per night, and food and drink prices are relatively low as well. So, let’s do a bit of planning and save money by planning cheap trips in India. 

Low-Budget Tourist Places	Best Time To Visit	Avg. Per Day Cost (approximate cost)
Agra	October to March	INR 1400/person
Rishikesh	October to April	INR 1800/person
Udaipur	September to March	INR 2233/person
Chandigarh	October to March	INR 1700/person
Shimla	March to June	INR 1950/person
Amritsar	November to March	INR 1600/person
Dharamshala	March to July	INR 1900/person
Varanasi	November to February	INR 2000/person
Leh	April to June	INR 2600/person
Goa	November to February	INR 2500/person
Kanyakumari	October to March	INR 1600/person
Hampi	October to February	INR 1300/person
Kotagiri	December to May	INR 2500/person
Kodaikanal	June to September	INR 1700/person
Pondicherry	October to March	INR 2250/person
Varkala	October to March	INR 1760/person
Kolkata	October to March	INR 1500/person
Guwahati	September to March	INR 1900/person
Pune	October to February	INR 2200/person
Daman	October to February	INR 2350/person

1. Agra

Being the cheapest city in India, Agra certainly is a low-budget place to visit. From the affordable stay options to food and transportation, your flights to Agra can cater for you with both budget and luxurious experiences. Tourists from all over the world visit Agra to catch a glimpse of the magnificent Taj Mahal and other famous landmarks of the city. As part of the Golden Triangle Tour Package, we can help you with affordable rates on accommodation. One can find a number of mid-range guesthouses and hotels located close to the Taj Mahal with the best views. 

Agra Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Taj Mahal	INR 50 (Indians) & INR 1100 (NRI)
Agra Fort	INR 50 (Indians) & INR 650 (NRI)
Fatehpur Sikri	INR 50 (Indians) & INR 610 (NRI)
Akbar’s Tomb	INR 30 (Indians) & INR 310 (NRI)
Itimad-Ud-Daulah	INR 30 (Indians) & INR 310 (NRI)
Mehtabh Bagh	INR 25 (Indians) & INR 300 (NRI)

2. Rishikesh 

A scenic city surrounded by lush green hills on the banks of River Ganga, Rishikesh is also one of the cheapest places to visit in India. With numerous cheap-rate accommodations and affordable eats available,  Rishikesh can definitely be considered while planning cheap trips in India. Moreover, the transport system here is a cheap way to get around Rishikesh, with tickets costing no more than INR 50 per person. And as icing on the cake, one can find numerous street food options with lip-smacking dishes like samosas and pakoras available for as little as INR 40. If you are looking for the cheapest city in India to travel to, do not forget to add Rishikesh to your bucket list.

Rishikesh  Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Triveni Ghat	Free
Parmarth Niketan	Free
Beatles Ashram	INR 150 (Indians) & INR 600 (NRI)
Rishikesh River Rafting	INR 600 – 1500/person
Sivananda Ashram	Free
Lakshman Jhula	Free

3. Udaipur

One of the mesmerizing yet cheap tourist places in India, Udaipur offers a perfect blend of history and nature, which is why it is often called ‘the Venice of the East. The ancient palaces and forts, the serene lakes and the lush gardens make it a place worth visiting. If you’re looking for some peace and tranquillity, get your flights to Udaipur booked. With its serene lakes and lush gardens, it’s easy to forget all your troubles and relax in this beautiful city. It is a small city and you can get to most places on foot, making it a low-budget trip in India. So, if you are in search of low-budget tourist places in India, don’t forget to add Rajasthan Travel Package to your list!

Udaipur Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
City Palace Museum	INR 300 (Adults) & INR 100 (Children)
Lake Pichola	Free
Jagmandir	Via Boat INR 300 (Adults) & INR 100 (Children)
Fateh Sagar Lake	INR 15 (Indians) & INR 60 (NRI)
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace	INR 10 (Indians) & INR 80 (NRI)
Saheliyon Ki Bari	INR 10 (Indians) & INR 50 (NRI)

4. Chandigarh

Simply the cheapest and the best! One of the greenest cities in the country, Chandigarh is one of the most pleasing and low budget tourist places in India. The “City Beautiful” Chandigarh was designed by the world-renowned French architect, Le Corbusier. The vibe of the city is just surreal with clean roads surrounded by lush greenery, french architecture, several museums and art galleries. Also, the nightlife is something not to be missed for. Whether you are travelling solo or with your group, Chandigarh will make you feel the safest. So, if you’re looking for a beautiful and fun-filled city to live in, taking flights to Chandigarh is certainly worth considering.

Chandigarh Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Sukhna Lake	Free
Rock Garden	INR 30 (Adults) & INR 10 (Children)
Rose Garden	Free
Sector-17 Plaza	Free
Elante Mall	Free
Bird Park	INR 50 (Indians) & INR 100 (NRI)

5. Shimla

An ideal destination for budget travel in India. Situated in the Himalayas, the beauty of Shimla is incomparable. The city houses some of the most stunning sceneries in the country and is considered a paradise for nature lovers. Shimla was once the summer capital of British India, and you can still see traces of that colonial past in its architecture and culture. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Shimla as part of the Himachal Pradesh Holiday Package will be perfect for you. One of the best things about Shimla is that it is the cheapest hill station in India and is ideal to travel to if you are concerned about your budget.

Shimla Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
The Ridge	Free
Mall Road	Free
Christ Church	Free
Viceregal Lodge	INR 20 (Indians) & INR 50 (NRI)
Shri Hanuman Mandir	Free
Jakhu Hill	Free

6. Amritsar

There is no place like Amritsar, India when it comes to experiencing the beauty of a city on a low budget trip in India. The architecture, the food, and the people all come together to create a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to take your flights to Amritsar as it is one of the cheapest places to visit in India and the locals are known for their hospitable nature and will go out of their way to make you feel welcome. From the Golden Temple to the many ornate palaces and temples, Amritsar is a city that is full of beautiful sights. The buildings are adorned with intricate carvings and colourful tile work, making them a feast for the eyes.

Amritsar Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
The Golden Temple	Free
Wagah Border	Free
Partition Museum	INR 10 (Indians) & INR 250 (NRI)
Jallianwala Bagh	Free
Hall Bazaar	Free
Shri Durgiana Temple	Free

7. Dharamshala

Looking for some cheapest places to travel in India? Well, the town of Dharamshala in the state of Himachal Pradesh is one of the alluring and low budget tourist places in India. Dharamshala is well known for its monasteries, temples and trekking routes in addition to being a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of India. The people of Dharamshala are friendly and welcoming, and there is always something to do or see in the area. Whether you are looking for a peaceful place to relax or want to explore all that India has to offer, Dharamshala is a great choice! 

Dharamshala Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium	INR 20
St. John In The Wildnerness Church	Free
The War Memorial	INR 10
Gyuto Monastery	Free
Tea Gardens	Free
Tsuglag Khang	Free

8. Varanasi

When it comes to the cheapest places to visit in India, Varanasi leaves no stone unturned. The city is famous for its ghats (or steps leading down to the river) and its many temples making it a perfect place for cheap trips in India. Varanasi is also known for its lively atmosphere. There’s always something happening on the ghats, and the streets of the city are always crowded with people. One of the best ways to experience Varanasi is to wander around on foot which is the best way to travel and save some money for other activities. This blissful city is one of the oldest cities and is perfect if you are looking for low-budget tourist places in India. 

Varanasi Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Dasaswamedh Ghat	Free
Assi Ghat	Free
Manikarnika Ghat	Free
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple	Free
Ramnagar Fort	INR 20 (Indians) & INR 150 (NRI)
Darbhanga Ghat	Free

9. Leh

Also referred to as “the land of high passes”, Leh is one of the cheap places to visit in India and is well known for its stunning natural beauty. The landscape is dominated by snow-capped mountains, bright blue skies, and clear rushing rivers. The air is clean and fresh, and the climate is cool and invigorating. This cheap and best location is located in the Himalayas of Northern India. If you are looking for the cheapest hill station in India, you can book Leh Ladakh Travel Packages and enjoy the more in less. In addition, Leh has many ancient monasteries and temples that are well worth exploring. If you are looking for an adventure under budget, then Leh is definitely worth a visit.

Leh Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Shanti Stupa	INR 30 per person
Leh Palace	INR 15 (Indians) & INR 100 (NRI)
Namgyal Tsemo	INR 20 per person
Sankar Gompa	INR 30 per person
Jama Masjid Leh	Free
Central Asian Museum	INR 50 per person

10. Goa

Not able to believe that Goa is one of the low-budget and cheapest places to travel in India? Well, you might be missing some of the facts. Goa is known for its tropical beauty and your flights to Goa will take some of the most stunning locations in India. From the lush green forests to the sparkling blue ocean, this place is a paradise on earth. The climate is also perfect, with temperatures ranging from 25-30 degrees Celsius year-round. The coastline of Goa stretches for over 100 kilometres and is dotted with wonderful beaches. Beyond the beaches, there are also many impressive churches, forts, waterfalls, temples and the best restaurants in Goa. You can book your Holiday Package for Goa based on your needs and explore the beach city your way.

Goa Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Baga Beach	INR 30 per person
Dudhsagar Falls	INR 300 (for Camera Equipment)
Basilica Of Bom Jesus	Free
Aguada Fort	Free
Palolem Beach	Free
Calangute Beach	Free

11. Kanyakumari

Just the right place for budget travel, Kanyakumari is a small town located in the state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its incredible natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean, and offers breathtaking views of all three bodies of water. It is among the cheap holiday destinations in India and visitors to Kanyakumari can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing. The town is also a popular destination for pilgrims who come to pay homage to Sri Maha Vishnu. This beautiful town is sure to consider if you are looking for cheap travel destinations in India. 

Kanyakumari Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Vivekananda Rock Memorial	INR 20 per person
Thiruvalluvar Statue	Free
Kanyakumari Beach	Free
Mahatama Gandhi Mandapam	Free
Sarvani Shaktipeeth Temple	Free
Our Lady Of Ransom Shrine	Free

12. Hampi

Looking to plan a few cheap trips in India? Well, Hampi is sure to astound you with its ancient beauty full of natural and manmade wonders. It is one of the cheap places to visit in India and this destination is set in a dramatic landscape of rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and river valleys. It’s no wonder that this area has been inhabited for thousands of years. What makes Hampi the cheapest and best place to visit in India are its temples which are brightly painted and are stunning examples of Indian architecture. Therefore, it is a must-see destination and you are definitely going to fall in love with the hospitality of the people and the authentic local cuisine. 

Hampi Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Vitthala Temple	Free
Hemakuta Hill Temple	Free
Sree Virupaksha Temple	Free
Achyutaraya Temple	Free
Kadalekalu Ganesha	Free
Saasivekaalu Ganesha	Free

13. Kotagiri

There is something about the small town of Kotagiri in India that just makes it so beautiful. Perhaps it is the natural surroundings, with the misty hills and valleys all around, or maybe it is the simple way of life that the people here lead. Either way, Kotagiri is a place worth visiting if you want to experience real India. Travellers adore Kotagiri because of its beauty as the town is nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, which are part of the Western Ghats mountain range. This means that there are plenty of places to explore in the area, from quiet nature trails to scenic waterfalls. So, if you are looking for cheap tourist places in India to explore, do not forget to give Kotagiri a thought. 

Kotagiri Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Elk Falls	Free
Catherine Falls	Free
Kodanand View Point	Free
Rangasamy Peak and Pillar	Free
John Sulivan Memorial	INR 10 (Adults) & INR 5 (Children)
Longwood Shola	Free

14. Kodaikanal

A wonderful place yet the cheapest hill station in India, Kodaikanal is known for its stunning views and romantic weather. This budget travel location is perfect to visit any time of year, but it is especially beautiful during the winter months when the snow-capped mountains provide a majestic backdrop. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature at its finest, be sure to add Kodaikanal to your list of places to visit. Ideal for a low-budget trip in India, Kodaikanal houses many art galleries and handicraft stores, where visitors can purchase traditional Indian handicrafts. If you are in search of cheap places to visit in India, Kodaikanal is amongst them.

Kodaikanal Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Kodaikanal Lake	Free
Bryant Park	INR 30 (Adults) & INR 15 (Children)
Bear Shola Falls	Free
Coakers Walk	Free
Kurinji Andavar Temple	Free
Mannavanur Lake	INR 10/person

15. Pondicherry

In search of cheap travel destinations in India? Pondicherry is sure to be the one that can be explored beautifully even if you are low on budget. Known for its French colonial heritage, temples, and beaches, the city centre is laid out in a grid pattern, with broad avenues and town squares. The French Quarter has many well-preserved colonial buildings, while other parts of the city are more typical of contemporary South Indian architecture. It would be mean to say that it is the cheapest city in India but it is definitely one of the cheapest places to visit in India. Get your flights to Pondicherry booked if you are looking for a rich cultural heritage that reflects its French colonial history in India. 

Pondicherry Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Shri Aurobindo Ashram	Free
Promenade Beach	Free
The Sacred Heart Basilica	Free
Puducherry Museum	INR 10 (Indians) & INR 50 (NRI)
Rock Beach	Free
Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple	Free

16. Varkala

Amongst the cheap places to visit in India, Varkala is also one of them. This town is located on the Arabian Sea and is known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches. One of the most popular activities in Varkala is swimming, and the clear water and soft sand make it a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Besides being one of the low-budget tourist places to visit in India, Varkala is a place where you can find the perfect mix of tranquillity and excitement. If you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, then Varkala is the ideal destination for you. You will have this destination covered in your Kerala Travel Package, making it possible for you to discover other stunning sites.

Varkala Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Varkala Beach	Free
Varkala Cliff	Free
Varkala Aquarium	INR 30/person
Odayam Beach	Free
Janardhana Swami Temple	Free
Sivagiri Mutt	Free

17. Kolkata

The cheap and best Kolkata is one of the culturally rich cities in India and offers great low budget places to get around. Get your flights to Kolkata booked as there is so much to see and do in this vibrant city that you could easily spend weeks or even months exploring all of its attractions. The art galleries of Kolkata feature work by some of India’s most famous artists. And, the lip-smacking Kolkata food is something to die for. There are many restaurants in the city that serve both traditional Indian dishes and modern western cuisine. If you still haven’t found the right destination for a budget trip in India, Kolkata is definitely a place for you. 

Kolkata Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Victoria Memorial	INR 20 (Indians) & INR 200 (NRI)
Indian Museum	INR 10 (Indians) & INR 150 (NRI)
Howrah Bridge	Free
Dakshineswar Kali Temple	Free
Science City	INR 60/person
Marble Palace	Free

18. Guwahati

A place that flourishes with natural surroundings, Guwahati is definitely a must-add to the bucket list when you are looking for cheap places to visit in India. The city is located on the Brahmaputra River and is surrounded by hills on all sides. This creates a striking landscape that is constantly changing with the shifting light and weather conditions. This beautiful place is just perfect for a budget trip to India as it houses a diverse population, with people from all over India and beyond calling it home. You can witness the vibrant and exciting atmosphere along with the city’s many festivals and street celebrations by booking a North East Holiday Package with us.

Guwahati Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Kamakhya Temple	Free
Umananda Temple	Free
Assam State Zoo	INR 30 (Indians) & INR 100 (NRI)
Dipor Bil	Free
Peacock Island	Free
Assam State Museum	INR 20 (Indians) & INR 100 (NRI)

19. Pune

Apart from being one of the most happening party places in the country, Pune is also famous for being one of the cheapest places to travel in India. The city has been able to maintain its natural beauty while also incorporating modern amenities and infrastructure. The city has some of the most stunning architecture in the world, from ancient temples to modern skyscrapers. With all the cheap places to visit in India, there’s always something new to see in Pune. Plus, you will fall in love with the authentic delicious food. And, the prices are very affordable compared to other cities in India.

Pune Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
Osho International Meditation Resort	INR 870 (Indians) & INR 1790 (NRI)
Aga Khan Palace	INR 5 (Indians) & INR 100 (NRI)
Shaniwar Wada	INR 5 (Indians) & INR 125 (NRI)
Sinhagad Fort	INR 20
Pataleshwar Caves	Free
Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir	Free

20. Daman

Known for its pristine beaches, stunning scenery and laid-back lifestyle, Daman is also known for being one of the cheapest holiday destinations in India. The beaches in Daman are some of the best in India. They are clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun. The scenery is simply breathtaking, with mountains rising up from the coast and crystal-clear waters lapping at the shore. The coastline here is dotted with rocky cliffs, palm trees and coral reefs. There are several to keep you busy on the beach, such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing and surfing. So get packing to explore this cheapest and best place to visit in India. 

Daman Famous Tourist Attractions	Entry Fee
St. Jerome Fort	Free
Jampore Beach	Free
Moti Daman Fort	INR 10/person
Bom Jesus Church	Free
Moti Daman Jetty Garden	Free
Dominican Monastery	Free

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is the cheapest of all India tour packages with Shipra Travels?

Answer: The list of cheap places to visit in India mentioned above is the cheapest of all India tour packages and fits the best for a low-budget trip in India.

Q: Which are the budget-friendly places to visit in India?

Answer: There are many incredible yet cheapest places to travel in India. Some of the most popular include Agra, Rishikesh, Udaipur, Dharamshala, Shimla, Kolkata and much more. These cities offer a great mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and exciting activities that can be enjoyed on a shoestring budget.

Q: What are some tips for travelling to India on a low budget?

Answer: To enjoy low-budget tourist places in India you must include staying in hostels or guesthouses, eating at local eateries, avoiding shopping at costly places or investing in a sightseeing tour trap. Instead, focus on free or cheap activities like walking around town, visiting temples and monuments, and taking local transport instead of taxis.

Q: What are some of the cheap and best things to see and do in India?

Answer: Some of the best things to do in India include visiting the Taj Mahal, exploring the palaces and forts of Rajasthan, taking a boat ride on the River Ganga, and witnessing a Hindu festival. India has many beautiful beaches, mountains, and wildlife sanctuaries that are worth a visit.

Q: Which is the cheapest city in India?

Answer: There are many cheapest places to travel to in India that have priceless beauty and are worth a visit. If you are looking for cheap tour packages in India, consider visiting Agra, Chandigarh, Goa, Kanyakumari, Hampi, or Pune.

Q: What are some safety concerns I should be aware of when travelling in India?

Answer: When you are on budget travel, you chose public transport most of the time which sometimes may lead to pickpocketing in crowded areas and markets. It is also important to be aware of sightseeing scams or other tour frauds. Be sure to only use registered taxis and never accept rides from strangers.

Q: What is the best time of the year to visit India?

Answer: The best time of year to visit India depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. The weather varies greatly throughout the country, so it is important to research the climate of the region you plan to visit before booking your trip.

We hope your search for cheap places to visit in India ends here with this list. India is an incredible country with the best of both low budget and high-end things to do and explore. Look for the best domestic flight deals, cheap hotels, public transportation and activities in your destination. There are many ways to enjoy a low-budget trip in India if you are willing to do a bit of digging. Moreover, the above-mentioned cheapest places to travel in India are loaded with beauty that you can get around without even breaking the bank. And, we at Shipra Travels are always there to help you with below-average flight tickets. Sign up for a cheap rate flight today by just calling us at +91 8000 235 865