Who says travel has to be expensive? India is packed with cheap travel destinations which are really hidden gems where you can eat, stay, and explore without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re a student craving adventure, a backpacker looking for peace, or just someone who loves exploring new places on a tight budget — this guide is for you. From scenic mountains to spiritual cities and beachside towns, India is a one stop destination for every traveler. So, here are 8 unexplored hidden gems in India where you can travel for as less as 800 rupees a day all while having the time of your life.
These destinations not only offer stunning landscapes and rich culture, but they also prove that memorable travel experiences don’t need a luxury budget. From quaint hill stations tucked away in the Himalayas to peaceful coastal villages and historic towns, each place on this list has something unique to offer—without burning a hole in your pocket.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a slow, soul-searching trip, these budget-friendly spots are perfect for solo travelers, students, and even couples or small groups. Get ready to discover places where you can stay in cozy hostels or homestays, enjoy local delicacies for less than ₹100, and explore sights that feel untouched by the tourist crowds. Let’s dive into the best cheap travel destinations of India!
1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Spiritual Vibes & Adventure on a Budget🛶⛰️
Budget: ₹800–₹1,500 per day
Best For: Solo travelers, spiritual family outing, adventure lovers
Rishikesh is where spirituality meets thrill. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, this town on the banks of the Ganges offers more than just meditation and peace. You can try river rafting, attend free yoga sessions, explore peaceful ghats, and hike to waterfalls—all without spending much. this really adds to the cheap travel destinations in India
Things to Do:
- Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat (free)
- Visit Beatles Ashram (₹150 for Indian citizens)
- Try river rafting (starts at ₹500 per person) ⭐️
- Enjoy cheap and healthy meals at cafes like Chotiwala or Beatles Cafe
Travel Tip: Stay in ashrams or hostels for as low as ₹300/night. Shared dorms or river-facing rooms are budget-friendly and scenic.
⭐️Save money by travelling in off season, eat from local vendors⭐️
🕌 2. Pushkar, Rajasthan – Desert Charm on a Dime
Budget: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per day
Best For: Culture lovers, photographers, budget backpackers
Pushkar is a colorful town filled with energy, temples, and local markets. Surrounded by sand dunes and hills, it’s a great low-cost destination. The town is compact and easy to explore on foot, which saves on transport, this indeed adds to the cheap travel destinations in India
Things to Do:
- Visit Brahma Temple (one of a kind in India)
- Walk around Pushkar Lake and the 52 ghats
- Shop for local handicrafts and silver jewelry at the bazaar
- Catch a sunset view from Savitri Temple (after a short hike)
Travel Tip: Visit just after the Pushkar Camel Fair (November) to avoid the crowd and get cheaper stays.
⭐️Be a part of the history if you visit during the Pushkar camel fair⭐️
🌄 3. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh – A Slice of Tibet in India
Budget: ₹800–₹1,500 per day
Best For: Peace-seekers, mountain lovers, budget trekkers
McLeod Ganj, near Dharamshala, is home to the Dalai Lama and offers peaceful monasteries, beautiful treks, and Tibetan cafes. The cool weather, friendly locals, and affordable stays make it perfect for solo or slow travel.
Things to Do:
- Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama Temple)
- Trek to Triund (free if unguided)
- Try Tibetan food like thukpa and momos
- Explore Bhagsunag Waterfall and Shiva Cafe
⭐️A spiritual and cultural experience awaits⭐️
🏔️ 4. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh – A Backpacker’s Paradise
Budget: ₹1,000–₹1,600 per day
Best For: Backpackers, nature lovers, solo travelers
A small village in Parvati Valley, Kasol is known for its hippie culture, scenic trails, and Israeli food. It’s a great base for nearby treks like Kheerganga, this can be your best cheap travel destination in India
Things to Do:
- Trek to Chalal or Tosh (free)
- Enjoy budget cafes with river views
- Relax by the Parvati River
- Try shakshuka and hummus in local cafes
⭐️Try to stay away from strangers and dingy areas⭐️
🎶 5. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – Music, Mountains & Rice Fields
Budget: ₹1,200–₹1,800 per day
Best For: Offbeat travelers, music lovers, nature fans
Ziro is a lesser-known valley in the Northeast known for its scenic beauty and tribal culture. It’s also home to the popular Ziro Music Festival.
Things to Do:
- Attend Ziro Music Festival (if timed right)
- Walk through rice fields and pine forests
- Experience Apatani tribal hospitality
- Stay in bamboo cottages or homestays
🏝️ 6. Majuli, Assam – World’s Largest River Island
Budget: ₹900–₹1,400 per day
Best For: Cultural travelers, nature lovers, photographers
Majuli is located on the Brahmaputra River and offers a rare blend of Assamese culture and stunning scenery. It’s still very offbeat and peaceful.
Things to Do:
- Explore satras (Vaishnavite monasteries)
- Take a ferry to the island (₹15–₹30)
- Watch sunset by the riverbanks
- Interact with locals and learn about mask-making
🏖️7. Gokarna, Karnataka – Goa’s Peaceful Cousin
Budget: ₹900–₹1,500 per day
Best For: Beach lovers, peace-seekers, backpackers
If Goa feels too crowded or expensive, Gokarna is your go-to. It offers pristine beaches, affordable beach huts, and a peaceful vibe that’s hard to find in commercial beach towns.
Things to Do:
- Trek between beaches (Om, Kudle, Paradise, Half Moon)
- Stay in beach huts for ₹400–₹600
- Visit Mahabaleshwar Temple
- Enjoy seafood and coconut shakes at shacks
🧘 8. Auroville & Pondicherry – Calm, Clean & Creative
Budget: ₹1,000–₹1,800 per day
Best For: Creative minds, spiritual seekers, couples
With its French streets, clean beaches, and spiritual community, Auroville-Pondy is an affordable escape. You can rent a bicycle and explore everything from ashrams to bakeries.
Things to Do:
- Meditate at Matrimandir (pre-book online)
- Rent a cycle for ₹50/day in Auroville
- Chill at Promenade Beach or Serenity Beach
- Stay in guesthouses or Auroville community dorms
Traveling through India doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, it can be one of the most budget-friendly adventures you’ll ever experience. The destinations listed above prove that you don’t need a five-star hotel or fancy restaurants to enjoy the beauty, culture, and diversity this country has to offer. From the serene beaches of Gokarna to the mystical vibes of Rishikesh, and the ancient ruins of Hampi to the peaceful hills of McLeod Ganj—each place offers something unique for less than ₹2000 a day.
Whether you’re a student planning your first solo trip, a backpacker ticking off bucket-list places, or just someone craving a break without breaking the bank, these hidden gems welcome everyone. All it takes is a bit of planning, an open mind, and a willingness to explore offbeat paths. You’ll not only save money, but also collect authentic stories, meet incredible people, and discover parts of India many travelers overlook.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your backpack, book that sleeper train ticket, and head off on your next budget adventure. And if you’ve already been to any of these places, or have your own secret travel spots, feel free to share them in the comments below!