Budget Travel in India – Affordable Trips & Money-Saving Tips

Traveling in India doesn’t have to be expensive. With its diversity of landscapes, heritage sites, and food choices, India is one of the best countries for budget-friendly travel. From overnight trains and homestays to local street food and affordable guided tours, you can experience India authentically while keeping costs under control.

This guide will help you understand how to make the most of your budget, plus answer a common travel question about nearby getaways like the Maldives.

Affordable Travel in India – Where to Go

Rajasthan: Cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur offer budget stays in heritage havelis, cheap local transport, and plenty of street food.
Kerala: Houseboats can be pricey, but homestays along the backwaters and public ferries keep costs low. Ayurveda treatments and local thalis are surprisingly affordable.
Himalayas: Backpacker hubs like Manali, Dharamshala, and Rishikesh are great for budget trekkers and yoga enthusiasts.
Goa: Beyond luxury resorts, Goa has hostels, budget guesthouses, and beach shacks that make it easy to enjoy the coast on a shoestring.

Money-Saving Travel Tips

Use Trains & Buses: Indian Railways is one of the cheapest ways to cover long distances. Sleeper class tickets are budget-friendly.
Eat Local: Street food and small restaurants serve filling meals at a fraction of tourist restaurant prices.
Stay in Hostels & Homestays: India has an expanding network of hostels, from Zostel to local guesthouses, that cost less than hotels.
Travel Off-Season: Visiting during shoulder months (April, September) helps cut accommodation and flight costs.
Book in Advance: Early bookings often bring huge savings on trains, buses, and domestic flights.

Maldives Connection – Cost Comparisons

Many travelers exploring South Asia ask how much does it cost to go to the Maldives for a week. The Maldives can range from $1,000 to $7,000 per week, depending on whether you stay in a budget guesthouse on a local island or an all-inclusive luxury resort.

This makes India a budget traveler’s paradise in comparison—where you could easily spend a full month on the road, exploring multiple regions, for the same price as a single week in the Maldives. Many travelers even combine both destinations: exploring India affordably, then flying to Malé from Kochi or Mumbai for a short island escape.

Why Choose India for Budget Travel?

India offers experiences that are world-class without the heavy price tag. You can watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, trek through the Himalayas, explore centuries-old forts in Rajasthan, and relax on Kerala’s beaches—all at a fraction of what it would cost in other countries.

Budget travel here is not just about saving money, but about connecting with locals, discovering authentic culture, and stretching your journey further.

Final Thoughts

Traveling India on a budget is not about compromise—it’s about choosing experiences that give you more value. Whether you’re backpacking through Ladakh, wandering Pushkar’s bazaars, or comparing costs with nearby destinations like the Maldives, India remains one of the best choices for affordable adventures.

Explore Affordable India Trips

At Delighted Journey, we design cost-effective tours that maximize value without cutting out experiences. From budget-friendly Rajasthan circuits to Himalayan treks and Kerala backwater stays, we help you see India without overspending.

Happy Travelers on Our India Tours

Real travelers. Real stories. Real opinions to help you make the right choice.

From boutique stays to local food stops, Delighted Journey curated an itinerary that fit us perfectly. It felt personal, not packaged.

Amit K

They listened to what we wanted, added thoughtful surprises, and kept everything smooth behind the scenes. Worth every rupee!

Priya & Kunal

Usually, Iu2019m buried in logistics. This time, I just enjoyed the ride u2014 thanks to Delighted Journeyu2019s sharp planning and local know-how.

Neha S

Not just tourist spots u2014 we got to explore hidden cafu00e9s, art corners, and quiet beaches. Exactly why we booked with them

Rahul M

Why Delighted Journey

Unmatched Value

At Delighted Journey, we believe travel should be accessible to all. By offering competitive pricing, we ensure you can explore the wonders of India while creating meaningful memories, all without compromising on quality.

Luxury and Comfort

We include top-tier accommodations in all our packages, ranging from luxury hotels to serene homestays. Enjoy curated activities, whether exploring iconic landmarks or indulging in traditional experiencesu2014all crafted to make your trip extraordinary.

Exceptional Customer Care

Our dedicated team supports you from the initial planning stage to the final moments of your journey. With 24/7 assistance, trusted local guides, and seamless support, we ensure your adventure is hassle-free, safe, and unforgettable.

Trusted Local Partnerships

We partner with the most reliable and accredited local tour operators across India to offer both packaged and bespoke tours. Our collaborations ensure you experience top-notch services, authentic cultural encounters, and excellent value for money.

Indian Heritage and Excellence

At Delighted Journey, we are a boutique travel agency dedicated to showcasing the incredible beauty and rich heritage of India to travelers worldwide. From the majestic Taj Mahal to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, our mission is to provide authentic and immersive experiences that capture the essence of India.