One of the most commonly encountered problems when planning a trip is the budget, and for Indian passport holders, there is the added stress of getting a visa on time. However, finding the ideal travel destination is not as challenging as you think. Several affordable travel destinations from India are budget-friendly, have easy visa policies and are close enough so that you don’t have to waste your precious planned vacation time on long-haul flights. It is easy to travel to a foreign country with the same budget you would need for a destination in your home country. Yes, it takes extensive research, smart planning, early booking, and an adventurous soul ready to take on any challenge, but this is where the fun lies!
Here are the 8 cheapest countries you can visit from India:
1.) Indonesia (1 INR = 192.52 Indonesian Rupiah)
Indonesia, one of the largest archipelago countries, is a preferred destination for Indians because it is one of the cheapest countries to visit from India. Its natural beauty makes it a prime destination for travelers looking for an affordable getaway. Indonesia is located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans with a pristine coastline, a diverse marine ecosystem, and amazing coral reefs.
Best time to travel to: Mid-April to September.
Activities to do in Indonesia: A list of activities in Indonesia should include nature tourism, volcano tours, cultural tours, recreational tours, water sports, and religious tours.
Eateries: Three square warung (food stall) prices start at INR 120 per meal. In a local restaurant, a decent meal could cost about INR 500-600.
Places to visit: Bali, Jakarta, Malang, Lombok, Bandung, Yogyakarta are just some of the Indonesian sights that need to be checked out.
Indonesia’s positive aspects for Indians: You will find similarities in culture and religion (while Indonesia has one of the highest Muslim populations in the world, most of Bali practice Hinduism). It’s also affordable and offers great bargains.
Visa requirements for Indian citizens: You do not need a visa to visit Indonesia if you plan to stay there for less than 30 days. Just make sure that your passport is valid for more than 6 months and does not exceed the stay period.
Also read: How To Stay Healthy While Traveling
2.) Myanmar (1 INR = 22.18 Myanmar Kyat)
Myanmar has become a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Myanmar embraces many ethnic groups and cultures, often referred to as Burma. Further, the breathtaking views of the country will leave you in awe. So, make sure that you put this destination in your bucket list for a budget-friendly international trip.
Best time to travel: October – May
Activities to do in Myanmar: Experience Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, take boat trips to Inle Lake, and explore Bagan’s thousands of temples. There are many places to visit in Myanmar during a sightseeing trip.
Places to visit: Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Golden Rock Pagoda, Kyaing Tong, Monywa, Putao, Ngwe Saung Beach, and others are the top attractions in Myanmar.
Eateries: Dining out in Myanmar is reasonably priced, with meals at local restaurants or tea houses costing between INR 60 and 100.
Indonesia’s positive aspects for Indians: You can cross borders and go there if you prefer to travel by land.
Visa requirements for Indian Citizens: Indians can now obtain a visa upon arrival in Myanmar. There is a small town in Myanmar called Tamu that you can visit without a visa.
3.) Laos (1 INR =128.88 Laotian Kip)
This Southeast Asian country, known for its Buddhist monasteries and beautiful French architecture, could be your next destination when traveling to an inexpensive country from India. Laos boasts a stunning mountainous landscape, making it one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia, even if it lacks the beaches of other countries. You must visit Laos on a backpacker’s trip, especially if you’re exploring Southeast Asia.
Best time to travel: October to April
Activities to do in Laos: The Laos activity list includes night market, heritage tour, culture tour, temple tour, bike tour, and nature tours.
Eateries: Tamarind, The Apsara, Tangor, Utopia are some restaurants to check out if you want a decent meal at a reasonable cost.
Places to visit: Luang Prabang, That Luang, Vang Vieng, Wat Sisaket, Bokeo, Buddha Park, The Plain of Jars, Wat Phu, That Ing Hang Stupa are some of the attractions of Laos.
Laos’s positive aspects for Indians: It is easily affordable, and you can have a good time on a relatively small spending budget.
Visa requirements for Indians: Indian citizens do not need to apply for a Laos visa in advance. The embassy will issue the visa upon arrival in Laos, so you’ll need to present valid travel documents. Laos visa on entry is issued for 30 days. All visitors must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the time they enter Laos.
Must to know: Common travel scam and how to avoid them
4.) Cambodia (1 INR =54.98 Cambodian Riel)
Cambodia, which is one of the most affordable Southeast Asian destinations from India, and is known for its intriguing history, spectacular coastlines, and inexpensive delicacies. Cambodia is filled with incredible natural beauty. Although most people know Cambodia for its Angkor Wat temples, Cambodia also has a tragic past documented in its museums.
Best time to travel to: November to April
Activities to do in Cambodia: The checklist for a trip to Cambodia should include cultural visits, religious, recreational and leisure tours.
Eateries: There are some restaurants where you can satiate your taste buds, such as Dakshin’s, Vibe Cafe, and Bistrot Langka. Don’t miss out on Namaste India, arguably Cambodia’s finest Indian restaurant.
Places to visit: Angkor Wat, Silver Pagoda, Koh Ker, Bayon Temple, Tonle Sap, Preah Vihear, Sihanoukville, Tonle Sap, etc. Don’t miss these sights when you’re in Cambodia.
Visa Requirements for Indians: Indians can apply online for an e-Visa or upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport and all major border crossings in Cambodia. It’s very easy, just bring the necessary documents and visa fees with you.
5.) Sri Lanka (1 INR =2.70 Sri Lankan Rupee)
It is one of the cheapest countries in the world to travel from India. You’ll find the fragrance of tea plantations enveloping the atmosphere, lush greenery covers the floors and the locals serve delicious dishes. Sri Lankan trains offer scenic views and nearby temples and monuments are fascinating to look at. Sri Lanka is truly a beautiful destination that takes travelers’ breath away!
Best time to travel: December to April
Activities to do in Sri Lanka: Heritage Tours, Religious Tours, Art & Culture Tours, Adventure Water Sports, Wildlife Tours, Plantation visits are some of the things to experience in Sri Lanka.
Eateries: Ceylon Tea Moments in Colombo is one of the best options with a huge menu. A classic Sri Lankan fish curry meal in local markets.
Places to visit: In Sri Lanka, some of the top attractions are Colombo, Kandy, Yapahuwa Kurunegala, Galle, Tissamaharama, Kirinda.
Sri Lanka’s positive aspects for Indians: The country is close and gives the impression of being at home, but amazing and unique in its own way. Lanka is also an extremely affordable travel destination and it doesn’t take much time to explore several notable places such as Sigiriya, World’s End Nuwara Eliya, St. Clair’s Falls, Tawalantenne, Horton Plains National Park and Attidiya Bird Sanctuary.
Visa requirements for Indians: Indians must apply for a visa online to visit Sri Lanka. Tourists can also get an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) that allows them to enter the country for 30 days.
6.) Vietnam (1 INR = 309.22 Vietnamese Dong)
Being the world’s best backpacking destination, this is also one of the cheapest countries to travel from India. With an abundance of natural beauty, its rich heritage, and history, you’re surely bound to return with a contented soul. This country has the shape of the letter “S” which is located in the eastern part of the Indochina peninsula in Vietnam. It is extremely affordable and offers a plethora of facilities and experiences.
Best time to travel: March to April
Activities to do in Vietnam: Yacht or boat tours, local market tours, caving, cultural tours, Island tours, wildlife tours.
Eateries: Some of the best traditional Vietnamese dishes are Nem Ran or Cha Gio (Fried spring rolls) and Cha Ca La Vong (Grilled minced fish). Eat at street stalls, be sure to check out places like Cha Ca Street and Nguyen Truong on a street in Hanoi for popular but inexpensive meals.
Places to visit: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Sapa, Halong Bay, Nha Trang, Mekong Delta are among the many attractions in Vietnam.
Vietnam’s positive aspects for Indians: The biggest advantage would be the low exchange rates and the cheap prices. You will find that the rupee goes a long way if you do the right research.
Visa requirements for Indians: Indian passport holders can get a Visa on Arrival upon receiving an approval letter online. It will take approximately 3-5 working days to receive the letter once you have applied.
7.) Nepal (1 INR = 1.60 Nepalese rupees)
In the midst of the majestic Himalayas, Nepal is a picturesque country with snow-capped peaks and streams, yaks and yetis, monasteries, and magic. Nepal offers a calm and peaceful environment for those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, and for adventure junkies, it’s the perfect place to get an adrenaline rush, all without burning a hole in the pocket.
Best time to travel: October to November
Activities to do in Nepal: Visit the famous, historically rich temples in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most of them offer free entry. A trek to the World’s Highest Peak – Mt. Everest Base Camp – would be a superb experience. Experience nature tours and adventure sports.
Eateries: OR2K, an Israeli restaurant in Kathmandu, can be a budget-friendly option, while Krishna’s Kitchen in Pokhara is another option.
Places to visit: Most popular sites in Nepal include Lumbini, Boudhanath Stupa, Siddha Gufa, Hanuman Dhoka, Devi Fall, and Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve.
Nepal’s positive aspects for Indians: Nepal is extremely cheap and at the same time has many things in common with India that give you the feeling of being home away from home.
Visa requirements for Indian citizens: Indians do not require a visa to visit Nepal, but it is recommended that you have your passport with you.
8.) Bhutan (1 INR = 1 BTN)
Bhutan is a stunningly beautiful, verdant, and serene country. As of today, it is the only country in the world that is carbon negative. There is no country in the world that has a higher rate of happiness than Bhutan. Tourists can explore the country’s rich culture, mountain monasteries and be a part of colorful Bhutanese festivals. There are wilderness areas in the country for adventure seekers and is just as amazing a place if you wish to immerse yourself in nature.
Best time to travel: October to December
Activities to do in Bhutan: Cultural Tours, Local Tourism, Himalayan Tour, Hiking, Adventure Sports and Activities, Religious Tours, Wildlife Tours are just some of the options you have when visiting this country.
Eateries: A meal in the Sonam Trophel restaurant in Paro serves at least 7 dishes, which you can eat approx. INR 480 is enough to satisfy two people or 2 meals together.
Places to visit: Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha Dzong, Trashigang, Haa Valley, Trongsa, Dochula Pass, Rinpung Dzong, etc are popular destinations in Bhutan.
Bhutan’s positive aspects for Indians: An amazing advantage for Indians is that there is no need to change currency as the Indian rupee is easily accepted all over Bhutan, making it one of the most convenient and affordable travel destinations to visit from India.
Visa requirements for Indian citizens: Indians do not require a visa to visit Bhutan, and even a passport is not required, but it is recommended that you carry valid photo identification.
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