The 5 Cheapest Countries To Visit From India

Looking for budget-friendly international destinations from India? Consider Thailand with its $25-35 daily backpacker costs, Nepal’s affordable Himalayan adventures at ₹1,500-2,000 per day, or Sri Lanka’s paradise offerings with guesthouses from ₹1,000/night. Vietnam delivers with $6 dorm beds and street food under $5, while Bhutan provides regulated tourism with its $100 daily fee covering essentials. Each destination offers unique cultural experiences and natural beauty without emptying your wallet.

Key Points

• Thailand offers affordable backpacking at $25-35 daily with cheap hostels, street food, and diverse experiences from beaches to temples.
• Nepal provides budget Himalayan adventures at ₹1,500-₹2,000 daily with easy access from India for trekking and cultural exploration.
• Sri Lanka features guesthouses from ₹1,000/night and meals under ₹500, with December to April being the best visiting months.
• Vietnam presents pocket-friendly options with $6 dorm beds, street food under $5, and affordable domestic transportation options.
• Bhutan requires a $100 Sustainable Development Fee, but includes accommodation, meals, transport, and guide services in its tourism costs.

Thailand: Land of Smiles on a Budget

Thailand calls with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, offering Indian travelers one of the most accessible international destinations. You’ll find options for every budget, with backpackers thriving on $25-35 daily while mid-range travelers can enjoy comfortable experiences for $50-60.

Experience Thailand’s enchanting beauty and vibrant energy without breaking the bank—perfect for Indian travelers seeking affordable international adventures.

Accommodation ranges from $6 hostels to mid-range hotels at $30-80 nightly. Get around cheaply using local buses and tuk-tuks, or take overnight trains for longer journeys. For even greater savings, consider Couchsurfing with locals to eliminate accommodation costs altogether.

For authentic experiences without breaking the bank, savor $1.50 street food dishes and explore free temple visits.

Thailand’s appeal lies in its versatility—you can lounge on pristine beaches, learn about Buddhist culture, or navigate Bangkok’s energy while keeping costs remarkably low compared to other international destinations.

Nepal: Affordable Himalayan Adventures

Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, Nepal offers Indian travelers an incredible budget destination right next door. With easy border crossings and frequent flights from Delhi to Kathmandu, you’ll find this Himalayan paradise surprisingly accessible. The popularity of this destination is evident as India consistently ranks as the top source country for travelers visiting Nepal throughout 2025.

Daily expenses average just ₹1,500-₹2,000, covering budget accommodations, local transport, and delicious Nepali cuisine.

For unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank:

1. Trek iconic routes like Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, enjoying breathtaking alpine landscapes and traditional mountain villages
2. Explore ancient temples and cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley, including the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and intricately carved Bhaktapur Durbar Square
3. Try adventure activities in Pokhara, from paragliding over pristine lakes to rafting down the Kali Gandaki River

Sri Lanka: Island Paradise for Cost-Conscious Travelers

Just a short flight across the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers Indian travelers an incredible combination of pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture at remarkably affordable prices.

With over 2 million travelers visiting in 2024, this island nation has firmly reestablished itself as a budget-friendly destination.

You’ll find guesthouses starting at ₹1,000 per night and delicious local meals for just ₹200-500.

Transportation is equally economical, with tuk-tuks and buses available from ₹50.

Historical sites like Sigiriya and religious attractions such as Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth typically cost under ₹500 to enter.

Plan your visit between December and April to avoid monsoon season.

With English widely spoken and direct flights from major Indian cities, exploring this cultural melting pot has never been easier or more affordable.

The country’s tourism continues to thrive with over 900,000 travelers already visiting in the first five months of 2025.

Vietnam: Southeast Asian Gem With Pocket-Friendly Options

Vietnam entices Indian travelers with its extraordinary blend of breathtaking landscapes, affluent cultural heritage, and remarkably affordable prices. You’ll find accommodations ranging from $6 dormitories to $25 two-star hotels, making extended stays feasible even on tight budgets.

Transportation won’t drain your wallet either—domestic flights start at just $30, while buses and trains offer even cheaper alternatives for exploring this diverse country. Long-distance buses cost approximately 40,000-60,000 VND per 100 kilometers, making them an economical choice for budget travelers.

For food lovers:

1. Savor authentic street food for as little as $4-5 per dish
2. Experience local culture through homestays at $10-15 nightly (often including dinner)
3. Explore Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts without breaking the bank

With Vietnamese being the primary language, you’ll find English increasingly common among younger locals, making navigation easier for Indian travelers.

Bhutan: the Hidden Kingdom With Regulated Tourism Costs

Unlike most budget destinations, Bhutan operates on a unique tourism model that carefully balances visitor access with cultural preservation. You’ll need to pay a $100 daily Sustainable Development Fee plus a $40 visa fee when visiting.

The mandatory daily tariff covers your accommodation, meals, transportation, and guide services—essentially bundling your main expenses. If you’re traveling with children, there’s good news: kids under 5 are exempt from the SDF, while those aged 6-12 pay only half.

Budget travelers can opt out of the standard tariff structure and spend around $100 daily for basic food and accommodation. For more detailed information about Bhutan’s tourism policies, you can reach out to Follow Alice Adventure Trips via email or phone.

Plan your visit during March-May or September-November for the best experience in this carefully preserved Himalayan kingdom.

The Sum Up

These five destinations prove you don’t need to break the bank to satisfy your wanderlust. Whether you’re scrolling Instagram on your typewriter or planning your next budget adventure, these neighboring countries offer the perfect mix of culture, scenery, and value. With careful planning and the right timing, you’ll maximize every rupee while creating priceless memories. Start saving today for your affordable international escape!