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You're scrolling Instagram at 2 AM thinking, “Yaar, kab milega mujhe travel ka chance?” Good news, that can be you soon.

If you’re hunting for the cheapest countries to visit from India, start packing. With thoughtful planning and a reliable eSIM, international trips aren’t as expensive as you think.

We’ve done the homework. Budget tips in rupees, visa rules, cheap flight hacks, and how to stay connected without breaking the bank. We’ve even included a good number of visa-free and visa-on-arrival countries to make things easier for you.

Paisa bhi bachega, photos bhi mast aayenge.

Quick Summary: Top Budget-Friendly Countries to Visit from India

Southeast Asia

1. Thailand

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Thailand totally earns its title as the ultimate budget travel destination from India. 

Bangkok’s street food can be cheaper than Mumbai’s, and you’ll find hostels from ₹400 and solid hotels under ₹2000. 

With great infrastructure, getting around is easy even if you’re travelling solo. 

The real charm? Variety. From buzzing Bangkok to island life in Koh Tao, mountain air in Doi Inthanon, and ancient vibes in Ayuthaya—it’s all well-connected and wallet-friendly. 

• Things to bring: Thailand eSIM or Regional eSIM, light, breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, comfortable sandals, portable phone charger
• Distance from India: 2300 kilometres from Delhi to Bangkok
• Average flight time: 4 hours direct from major Indian cities
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹15000-25000 return with budget airlines
• Visa requirement: Indians currently enjoy 30-day visa-free entry (pilot program extended) (recently extended)
• Best times to visit: November to early April for best weather nationwide
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.42 Thai Baht
• Budget per day: Probably ₹1800-3500 covers accommodation, food, and activities comfortably

2. Vietnam

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Vietnam is another top pick for budget-friendly travel from India. 

From the organised chaos of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh City’s sleek skyline to the hill terraces of Sapa, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Cruise through Ha Long Bay’s limestone peaks, trek Sapa’s terraced rice fields, or get lost in Hoi An’s dreamy lantern-lit streets. 

And the food? A steaming bowl of pho for ₹80 is reason enough to go. 

With hotels starting at ₹1000 and affordable local transport, Vietnam offers solid hospitality infrastructure without the typical tourist price tag.

• Things to bring: Vietnam eSIM or Regional eSIM, Light layers, rain poncho, comfortable walking shoes, portable WiFi device, universal power adapter
• Distance from India: 2800 kilometres from Delhi to Hanoi
• Average flight time: 5-6 hours direct or 8-10 hours with connections
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹20000-35000 return, depending on season
• Visa requirement: Indians need an e-visa applied online before travel and can stay up to 90 days
• Best times to visit: February to April and August to October for milder weather
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 290 Vietnamese Dong
• Budget per day: ₹1500-3000 may cover accommodation, meals, and local transport comfortably

3. Cambodia

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Cambodia offers one of the world’s most powerful cultural experiences, centred around the breathtaking Angkor temple complex. 

Beyond the iconic Angkor Wat sunrise, you'll witness a country rising with quiet resilience.

Explore the ancient Khmer temples in Angkor Archaeological Park, stroll past golden spires and art spaces in Phnom Penh, or visit floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake that adapt to the rhythm of floods. 

Down south, places like Kep charm with fresh crab markets and pepper farms. But more than the sights, it’s the warmth of the Cambodian people that stays with you long after the trip ends.

• Things to bring: Cambodia eSIM or Regional eSIM, comfortable walking shoes, light cotton clothes, a hat for sun protection, a water bottle, and a camera with extra memory cards
• Distance from India: 3100 kilometres from Delhi to Phnom Penh
• Average flight time: 6-8 hours with connections (no direct flights)
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹25000-40000 return via Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur
• Visa requirement: Indians can get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival or an e-visa online
• Best times to visit: November to February for cool, dry weather
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 49 Cambodian Riel (USD widely accepted)
• Budget per day: ₹1800-3200 may cover accommodation, food, transport, and temple tickets.

4. Laos

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If you're craving peace and calm on a budget, Laos is pure magic. 

Vientiane feels more like a big village than a capital, with monks collecting alms at sunrise, golden stupas like Pha That Luang, and riverside cafés. 

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is easily one of Asia’s most beautiful towns. The country’s Buddhist spirit shows in the locals’ gentle manner and serene temples, where you can quietly observe or meditate. 

From Kuang Si Falls to Pak Ou Caves and sleepy weaving villages, everything feels untouched. Sip a ₹50 coffee by the Mekong and forget the rest of the world exists.

• Things to bring: Laos eSIM or Regional eSIM, comfortable sandals, quick-dry clothes, waterproof bag, reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent, portable phone charger.
• Distance from India: 3200 kilometres from Delhi to Vientiane
• Average flight time: 8-12 hours with connections via Bangkok or Hanoi
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹30000-45000 return with good booking
• Visa requirement: Indians get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at major airports and land border crossings
• Best times to visit: November to February for cooler, dry conditions
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 195 Laotian Kip
• Budget per day: ₹1500-2500 covers accommodation, meals, and leisurely exploration

5. Malaysia

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If you’re after a mix of solid infrastructure and budget-friendly travel, Malaysia ticks all the boxes. 

In Penang’s George Town, you can wander through street art in the morning, explore temples by afternoon, and end your day at a bustling night market with some of the best char kway teow around. 

Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers and smooth public transport showcase modern Malaysia, while Malacca’s colonial buildings whisper old trading tales. 

With a large Indian population, you’ll spot familiar food, languages, and festivals (Thaipusam at Batu Caves is truly something else). 

For first-time international travellers, Malaysia feels instantly comfortable.

• Things to bring: Malaysia eSIM or Regional eSIM, universal power adapter, reusable water bottle, light summer clothes, rain jacket for sudden downpours, comfortable walking shoes
• Distance from India: 3400 kilometres from Delhi to Kuala Lumpur
• Average flight time: 5-6 hours direct from major Indian cities
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹18000-30000 return with AirAsia or similar budget carriers
• Visa requirement: Must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online before arrival. Indians currently enjoy 30-day visa-free entry (a pilot program has been extended). 
• Best times to visit: March to early October for the West Coast, the other months for the East Coast
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.055 Malaysian Ringgit
• Budget per day: ₹2200-3800 covers comfortable accommodation, diverse food, and transport

6. Indonesia

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Indonesia’s 17,000+ islands offer incredible variety at budget-friendly prices. 

While Bali gets all the hype, Yogyakarta delivers rich culture—you can tour the Sultan’s palace, see batik artisans at work, and enjoy royal Javanese meals for just ₹200. 

Temples like Borobudur and Prambanan rival Angkor Wat, minus the crowds. The country’s diversity is unreal, from Jakarta’s fast-paced city life to traditional Torajan funerals in Sulawesi and epic diving in Raja Ampat. 

The food? Packed with bold spices, coconut curries, and fresh seafood that Indian travellers will love. And thanks to “ramah tamah,” Indonesian hospitality feels genuinely heartwarming.

• Things to bring: Indonesia eSIM or Regional eSIM, lightweight tropical clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, comfortable sandals, waterproof phone pouch, universal adapter
• Distance from India: 3600 kilometres from Delhi to Jakarta
• Average flight time: 6-7 hours direct to Jakarta or Bali
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹22000-38000 return, depending on destination and season
• Visa requirement: Indians currently enjoy 30-day visa-free entry (pilot program extended) or visa-on-arrival for longer stays
• Best times to visit: May to September for dry season across most islands
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 185 Indonesian Rupiah
• Budget per day: ₹1800-3200 covers comfortable island-hopping, including accommodation and activities

7. Philippines

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Craving a Caribbean-style island escape on a budget? The Philippines has you covered and then some. 

With 7,641 islands and famously warm locals, it’s a tropical adventure that feels both exciting and welcoming. 

You can island-hop through Palawan’s limestone cliffs, cruise underground rivers, or hike up Mount Tapyas in Coron for jaw-dropping sunset views. 

Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, marvel at Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, or kick back on the beaches of Boracay and Siargao. 

Baguio offers a cool mountain break with strawberry farms and craft markets. And if seafood’s your thing, you’ll feast like royalty for just ₹200–400.

• Things to bring: Philippines eSIM or Regional eSIM, quick-dry clothing, sturdy water-resistant sandals, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof bag, snorkelling gear, insect repellent
• Distance from India: 4100 kilometres from Delhi to Manila
• Average flight time: 6-8 hours with connections via Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹25000-42000 return with booking
• Visa requirement: Indians currently enjoy 14-day visa-free entry (non-extendible)
• Best times to visit: November to May for the dry season and calm seas
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.67 Philippine Peso
• Budget per day: ₹2000-3800 covers island accommodation, fresh seafood, and activities

South Asia

8. Nepal

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Nepal tops every list of the cheapest countries to visit from India, and it almost feels unfair how affordable this mountain paradise is. 

With its unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist culture, it’s unlike anywhere else. 

Trek to Everest Base Camp through Sherpa villages, explore Kathmandu’s temples like Pashupatinath and Boudhanath Stupa, or chill by Pokhara’s lakeside with the Annapurna range as your backdrop. 

Prayer flags, temple bells, locals spinning prayer wheels—it’s all pure magic. 

• Things to bring: Nepal eSIM or Regional eSIMs, warm layers, comfortable trekking shoes, power bank, basic first aid kit, and reusable water bottle
• Distance from India: 0 kilometres (shared border)
• Average transport time: 6-12 hours by bus from Delhi to Kathmandu
• Cheapest transport cost: Bus tickets from ₹800-2000 depending on route
• Visa requirement: Indians can visit Nepal visa-free indefinitely
• Best times to visit: October to December and March to May for clear mountain views
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.6 Nepalese Rupee
• Budget per day: ₹1200-2500 may likely cover comfortable accommodation, meals, and local transport covers comfortable accommodation, meals, and local transport

9. Bhutan

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Don’t let Bhutan’s ₹1,200 Sustainable Development Fee scare you off. For what you get, it’s still one of the best value trips around. 

This country runs on Gross National Happiness, not GDP, and you’ll definitely feel it.

Guesthouses, food, and transportation are budget-friendly, and the culture is truly exceptional. Think monks debating in courtyards, locals in ghos and kiras, and weekend markets where the sack sells chillies. 

Once you're in, it’s easy to explore gems like Tiger’s Nest and quiet valleys full of chortens. It’s a trip that feels premium, without the premium price tag.

• Things to bring: Bhutan eSIM or Regional eSIM, warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, camera with extra batteries, respectful clothing for temples
• Distance from India: Direct border access from West Bengal and Assam
• Average transport time: 3-4 hours drive from Bagdogra airport to Thimphu
• Cheapest entry cost: ₹1200 per day Sustainable Development Fee for Indians
• Visa requirement: Indians need a permit, but the processis simplified  compared to other nationalities
• Best times to visit: March to May and September to November for clear weather
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.6 Bhutanese Ngultrum
• Budget per day: ₹2000-3500 total including permits, accommodation, meals, and transport

10. Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka is a teardrop-shaped island packed with golden beaches, ancient sites like Sigiriya’s Lion Rock, and traditions like stilt fishing you won’t find elsewhere. 

Sip hand-picked Ceylon tea in misty plantations or go on safaris where leopards and elephants share the same trails. 

For Indians, it’s the perfect blend of familiarity and surprise—Tamil chatter in Colombo, hoppers and kottu roti on every corner, and temples of both faiths side by side. 

Yet the island still delivers unique moments, from blue whale sightings in Mirissa to scenic train rides through Ella. 

• Things to bring: Sri Lanka eSIM or Regional eSIMs, light cotton clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, comfortable sandals, rain jacket
• Distance from India: 50 kilometres across the Palk Strait from Tamil Nadu
• Average flight time: 1.5 hours from Chennai, 3.5 hours from Delhi
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹8000-15000 return, depending on season and route
• Visa requirement: Indians currently can obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) from Sri Lanka for up to 30 days
• Best times to visit: December to March for the west/south coasts, May to September for the east coast
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 3.43 Sri Lankan Rupee
• Budget per day: Roughly ₹2000-3500 covers comfortable accommodation, meals, and local transport

11. Bangladesh

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Bangladesh offers some of the best value travel experiences right next door, and that’s precisely what makes it a hidden gem. 

Wander through Old Dhaka’s Shakhari Bazaar, cruise the Padma or Meghna rivers, or explore the wild Sundarbans. 

You’ll also find Mughal-era mosques, tea gardens in Sylhet that rival Darjeeling, and Cox’s Bazar (the world’s longest natural beach). 

With shared history and familiar languages, it’s easy to feel at home while discovering something new.

• Things to bring: Bangladesh eSIM or Regional eSIM, light, modest clothing, comfortable walking shoes, water purification tablets, basic medical kit, patience for bureaucracy
• Distance from India: Shared 4000+ kilometre border
• Average transport time: 12 hours by bus from Kolkata to Dhaka, or 2 hours by flight
• Cheapest transport cost: Bus tickets from ₹1500-3000, flights from ₹12000 return
• Visa requirement: Indians need a visa, but the process is simplified with reasonable fees
• Best times to visit: November to February for cooler, dry weather
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.4 Bangladeshi Taka
• Budget per day: ₹1200-2500 may cover decent accommodation, meals, and local experiences

East Asia

12. China

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Even China’s hubs like Beijing and Shanghai are surprisingly affordable. 

A proper meal costs around ₹200–350, and decent hotels go for ₹800–2000 a night. 

You can hike the Great Wall, from the crowded Badaling to untouched wild sections where it’s just you and the silence of history. 

Wander ancient alleys in Lijiang, ride cable cars above Chongqing’s neon skyline, or watch tai chi sessions in Shanghai’s Bund Park beneath towering skyscrapers. 

Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, Guilin’s karst peaks, and Chengdu’s spicy street food all add to the magic. 

Translation apps help, and locals are usually happy to assist.

• Things to bring: China eSIM or Regional eSIM, translation app, VPN service, comfortable walking shoes, power bank, water filtration bottle, travel adapter, patience
• Distance from India: 3800 kilometres from Delhi to Beijing
• Average flight time: 5-6 hours direct to major Chinese cities
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹25000-45000 return, depending on destination and season
• Visa requirement: Indians need tourist visa applied in advance through the Chinese consulates
• Best times to visit: April to May and September to October for moderate weather
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.083 Chinese Yuan
• Budget per day: ₹2500-4000 may cover comfortable hotels, good food, and efficient transport

Central Asia

13. Georgia

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Georgia gives you that European travel vibe without the price tag—and the cherry on top? Indians get visa-free entry. 

From Tbilisi’s colourful Old Town to the ancient wine region of Kakheti, where monks still make wine in underground clay qvevri, the experiences feel one of a kind. 

You can also hike through the Caucasus mountains or unwind by the Black Sea. 

The food is next-level too—khachapuri and khinkali will ruin you for regular bread and dumplings. 

But what truly sets Georgia apart is its people. Locals are warm, welcoming, and might just invite you in for a meal, no strings attached.

• Things to bring: Georgia eSIM or Regional eSIM, layers for variable mountain weather, comfortable hiking shoes, camera, universal power adapter, basic first aid supplies
• Distance from India: 2800 kilometers from Delhi to Tbilisi
• Average flight time: 4-6 hours with connections via Dubai or Istanbul
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹30000-50000 return with good advance planning
• Visa requirement: Indians may apply for an e-visa, which allows a stay of up to 30 days.
• Best times to visit: May to October for hiking and sightseeing, December to March for snow activities
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.045 Georgian Lari
• Budget per day: ₹2000-3500 may cover accommodation, excellent food, and local transport

Middle East

14. Turkey

Source: Unsplash

Turkey lets you experience both Europe and Asia in one trip, and Istanbul alone is worth the flight. 

Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and modern galleries sit side by side, while street vendors serve döner and tea by the Bosphorus. 

Explore Hagia Sophia’s mosaics, shop the ancient Grand Bazaar, or wander trendy art districts. 

Outside the city, you’ve got Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, Pamukkale’s white terraces, and sunny Mediterranean beaches. Scenic views? You'll be spoiled for choice.

• Things to bring: Turkey eSIM or Middle East eSIM, layers for varied climates, comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for mosque visits, universal adapter, camera with extra storage
• Distance from India: 4200 kilometres from Delhi to Istanbul
• Average flight time: 6-8 hours direct or with short connections
• Cheapest flight ticket price: ₹28000-48000 return, depending on season and airline
• Visa requirement: Indians need to apply for an e-visa online (visa-on-arrival not available)
• Best times to visit: April to June and September to November for moderate weather
• Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.35 Turkish Lira
• Budget per day: ₹2500-4200 may cover comfortable accommodation, delicious food, and sightseeing

Essential Tips for Your Budget Travel Experience

Flight Booking Strategies 

Booking 2–3 months ahead can save you ₹20,000–40,000 on Southeast Asia flights. 

Avoid Indian holiday peaks and try flying out midweek—Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually cheaper.

 Connecting flights via Bangkok or KL often beat direct ones, and setting price alerts helps you catch surprise drops.

Accommodation Hacks Beyond Just Hostels

Budget stays aren’t just dorm rooms anymore. Private hostel rooms can be cheaper than budget hotels. Most hostels even come with perks like kitchens and chill social spaces. 

In Nepal or Vietnam, walk-in deals at guesthouses often beat online prices—just book the first few nights in advance for peace of mind.

Street Food Safety Without Paranoia

Street food is amazing, but go where locals queue and avoid raw stuff at first. Watch how it’s cooked and skip anything left out too long. Carry basic meds just in case, and trust your senses—if it smells off, walk away.

Local Transport Mastery

Public transport saves money and gives you a real feel of the country. Download offline maps, learn a few key phrases, and take photos of stations to show drivers. A ₹50 bus over a ₹500 taxi adds up fast, and you’ll see spots most tourists miss.

Money Exchange and Payment 

Skip airport exchanges unless it’s urgent. Use ATMs in city centres for better rates, and let your bank know you're abroad to avoid blocks. 

Carry some USD as backup, withdraw larger sums to cut fees, and always decline dynamic currency conversion.

Your Budget Adventure Starts Right Now with Airalo

These 14 countries demonstrate that international travel can be more affordable than a trip to Goa or Manali. Your adventure is just a booking away.

However, before you go, ensure your connectivity is sorted out. Forget hunting for local SIMs or paying shocking roaming charges. With an Airalo eSIM, you get affordable data as soon as you land.

Whether it’s a local eSIM for one country or a regional Asialink eSIM for multiple destinations, you can stay connected hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Travel from India

How can I stay connected abroad without expensive roaming charges? 

An Airalo eSIM is your best bet. It's a digital SIM that you can install before you travel. It allows you to connect to a local network at affordable, prepaid rates, saving you from high roaming bills.

How much should I budget for a week-long trip to Southeast Asia?

For a comfortable budget trip, set aside ₹25,000–45,000 for the week, including flights. That covers flights, stay in hostels or budget hotels, daily meals, and local travel. Vietnam and Cambodia are usually cheaper, while Malaysia and Thailand cost a bit more.

Is it safe for solo Indian travellers to visit these countries?

Yes, most are very safe—even for solo female travellers. Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam have strong tourist infrastructure. Stick to well-reviewed stays, avoid sketchy areas late at night, and always trust your gut.

Do I really need travel insurance? 

Absolutely. Travel insurance is non-negotiable. It protects you from unforeseen events like medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or lost baggage and is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

What is the absolute cheapest country to visit from India? 

Nepal is generally considered the cheapest, especially since there are no visa costs and the Indian rupee is widely accepted. Bangladesh and Laos are also strong contenders.

Can I travel to these countries for a week under ₹30,000? 

Yes, definitely! For countries like Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, a budget of ₹30,000 (excluding flights) is very feasible for a week if you stay in hostels and eat local food.

Are these countries safe for solo female travellers? 

Most of these destinations, particularly in Southeast Asia like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, are very popular and generally safe for solo female travellers. However, it's always important to take standard safety precautions.