Budget Tips India Travel

Budget Travel in India: 8 Essential Tips!

Budget travel in India isn’t a difficult thing to do. When I travelled to India this year, I managed to survive easily on just 1000 rupees per day (around 10GBP/15USD), including accommodation, domestic travel, food, sightseeing and of course, souvenir shopping! While living within this budget was pretty effortless, I could easily have gone overboard and spend a small fortune.

I don’t know if you can relate but, whenever I go to a country which is much cheaper than the UK (AKA most countries) I constantly convert the prices of things back to sterling and feel like I need to take advantage of all the bargains.

Ultimate budget travel tip: don’t do this!

Learn to think in the local currency instead. Just because it’s cheaper than your home country, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily cheap. Take advantage of the fact that you’re in one the cheapest countries in the world and, instead of thinking about how much you’re saving by buying, think about the extra pennies you can save towards your next holiday by not buying!

My tips for budget travel in India aren’t going to make your trip any less fun or make you feel like you’re living like a pauper: they’re just small, smart changes you can make everyday!

Budget Travel in India: My Top Tips!

Choose Non-AC over Air-Con

If anything is going to send you off budget it’s AC rooms! Room prices can be double, or even triple the price of fan only rooms.  And, in all honesty, they’re not always essential.

Even when I visited Rajasthan in April, when temperatures were over 40C every day, I never missed Air con. Maybe this is because I’m from Scotland and hate air con (the concept of making a room freezing cold has always seemed strange to me- my core desire in life is NOT to be cold), but I just didn’t feel like I needed it! Instad, I made sure that the fan in my room was nice and strong and would keep me cool enough to get a good night’s sleep.

This tip for budget travel in India didn’t just help me keep my travel costs down, it helped me to climatise better, too! Win-win!

450 rupees a night in Udaipur!

450 rupees a night in Udaipur!

The hotel in the photo is Nukkad guesthouse in Udaipur. Book it here!

Eat Like a Veggie in India

Depending on what part of India you travel to, this might not actually be a choice. Many of the holy cities forbid meat, although some restaurants will have a secret meat menu, especially for foreign tourists.

Cutting out meat isn’t just a top tip for budget travel in India, it could save you from suffering from the infamous Delhi Belly, too! For just 100 rupees (1GBP/1.50USD), you can get yourself a vegetarian thali which usually contains rice, 2 veg curries, pickle and some curd. More than enough to fill you up.

If you were to order chicken curry, rice, garlic nan and a mango lassi, on the other hand, you would probably spend around 400 rupees (4GBP/6USD.) Again, this is much cheaper than it would be at home, and I did have several meals like this! But, if you eat like this everyday your costs will really start to multiply.

One of many 100 rupee veg thalis in India

One of many 100 rupee veg thalis in India

Go sleeper class on Trains in India

Every man and his dog has heard the horror stories about taking public transport in India. Because of this, most tourists decide to go for overpriced chartered tours, hire drivers or take tourist class. Regardless of where you decide to go in India, you are definitely going to have to cover a fair amount of ground, given the vast size of the subcontinent. Don’t blow your budget on AC private cabins on the train. I promise that you won’t compromise your safety, and it won’t be like sleeping in a sauna.

Sleeper class in India is SO CHEAP and actually pretty comfortable, too. I found it was a fine place to get a decent nights sleep since the beds are completely horizontal, rather than reclining chairs. The windows are left open, and there are fans so the cabin is always cool.

Plus, if it gives you any piece of mind, India Rail seems to try and clump tourists together, so it’s a nice place to meet like minded travellers. Even if you’re not in with other tourists, most of the people travelling on the trains are families, it’s not going to be packed full of solo males looking to take advantage. Don’t worry about that, I didn’t feel vulnerable at all in sleeper class.

One piece of advise I would give you is to bring a chain for your bag and sleep with the key, because regardless of where you go, there’s always the chance of pick pockets and thieves. But, let’s be honest, this is even the case in European cities.

Want more tips for train travel in India? Check out this post!

Unfortunately, the only picture I have of a sleeper train in India is of me lying on top of random people's luggage and stuffing my face with cold pizza... enjoy!

Unfortunately, the only picture I have of a sleeper train in India is of me lying on top of random people’s luggage and stuffing my face with cold pizza… enjoy!

Swap Coffee for Chai

Delicious, spicy and sweet masala chai is one of the things I miss most about India. I tried to make it at home, but it’s never quite the same! This isn’t even a tip for budget travel in India- just take advantage of being able to get real authentic chai so easily.

On the train or the side of the road, chai can cost as little as 7 rupees(7p/$0.10!) Such a cheap caffeine fix. Although it can be difficult to make the change, and you will probably be tempted by the occasional coffee in a tourist restaurant, swapping coffee for chai tastes amazing and will cost you next to nothing!

Don't forgot to pay Krishna a visit if you find yourself in Bundi!

Don’t forgot to pay Krishna a visit if you find yourself in Bundi!

Debunking Budget Travel Myths: Use a Travel Agent to Save Money in India!

Most budget travellers tend to shy away from travel agents, due to the hefty amount of commission they add to trips and tours. However, when it comes to booking trains and buses in India, they are the way forward.

A lot of train stations are a bit out of town, so the amount you would spend to get there in a tuk-tuk to book tickets independently is around the same as what they charge in commission- not a lot if you decide to book sleeper class trains, like I suggested. Booking online still seems like a difficult option for tourists, but this could be set to change in the future.

Trains and buses in India sell out pretty quickly, it’s a good idea to jump into a travel agent in your first port of call with your planned itinerary, and book all your transport at the one time. Be prepared that some trains might sell out if you don’t prebook, so it is a good idea to have a back up plan.

My mum and me in Old Goa

My mum and me in Old Goa

Don’t be Afraid to Barter in India

If you’re anything like me, you might find it hard to pull yourself away from the amazing bazzars in India!

And, as cheap as they are, of course, this little habit is going to eat up your daily travel budget in India.

To minimise that damage, make sure you negotiate! In India, tourists pay tourist prices: just like everywhere else in the world. I found that everything was open to negotiation, particularly in the low season when I was travelling. This doesn’t only go for shopping, but for hotel rooms too. Try and get a lower price if you are staying for more than 3 nights, the owner should be happy to accommodate you.

Just remember to barter respectfully and don’t start bargaining over things you have no intention of buying!

Don't be afraid to barter at the Anjuna flea market!

Definitely practice your bartering skills at the Anjuna Flea Market

Travel in India during the Low Season and Save Money

Budget travel in India is even cheaper during the low and shoulder seasons. Travelling during these times gives you so much power for negotiating good deals at the bazzars and booking hotel rooms. If you travel in the shoulder season, the weather will still be bearable and places will be a lot less crowded- meaning you’re also much less likely to get scammed.

I travelled at the very beginning of the hot season and would definitely do it again.

Before I left I read so many threads on tripadvisor saying there is no point going to India in the hot season because it will be terrible and you won’t be able to go outside- it wasn’t that bad at all.

Another benefit of travelling in the low season is being able to see sights like the Taj Mahal without herds of tourists surrounding it!

Another benefit of travelling in the low season is being able to see sights like the Taj Mahal without herds of tourists surrounding it!

Don’t Book Hotels Ahead of Time

This is the absolute golden rule for budget travel in India: you don’t need to book a hotel ahead of time. Now don’t get me wrong, when you land in Delhi or Mumbai, it will be nice to have somewhere booked. I’ve been to both of these cities and know how overwhelming it is trying to navigate your way them. Do yourself a favour and book something online! The same goes if you’re travelling during a huge festival like Holi or to somewhere popular in the middle of the high season- e.g Goa in December.

But the rest of the time, it’s fine to just how up. You won’t be stranded!

Whenever I arrived in a city, my friend and I usually checked out about 5 different hotels. When we did this, we were never shy (are Scottish girls ever shy!?) and always asked to have a look at the rooms. Because of this, we always knew we were getting a fair rate and never got ripped off.

The ultimate steal that we got was in Pushkar- a huge double room with a balcony, right in the centre of town with a rooftop restaurant and amazing wifi. We got all of this for just 300 rupees (3GBP/4.50USD) between 2 people at a newly built inn that wasn’t on hotel booking websites. You really can’t beat that!

The whole time we spent in India, we never spent more than 450 rupees (4GBP/6USD) on a double room. We always stayed in a room that suited us perfectly and only prebooked rooms in Mumbai and Delhi. (Although, disclaimer, those rooms cost much more than 450 rupees!)

Spacious room, wifi and balcony... for 300 rupees!

Spacious room, wifi and balcony… for 300 rupees!

The hotel in the photo is called Hotel Diamond. Click here to book it!

Budget Travel in India: The Verdict!

I hope these tips can help anyone who is trying to travel India on a budget! Like I mentioned, I managed to do it on a daily travel budget of around £10 per day. But, honestly, everyone’s different! I’ve heard of people doing it for so much less, and also so much more. It’s always better to overbudget, just in case there are any unexpected costs. And of course, don’t forget to factor in the cost of Travel Insurance.

Budget travel in India: what are your top tips?

If you’re travelling around India on a budget, don’t miss these other handy posts!

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  • Clair Kelly
    17th February 2016 at 11:24 pm

    I loved this post, it so reminded me of my trip to India in December. I agree with all of your points except the Air Con, I think I’d die!! Definitely agree with you on the vegetarian food. I couldn’t believe the difference between paneer and chicken, almost double the price! I must have splurged as my budget was 2700 rupees per day!

    • Nicole Louise
      18th February 2016 at 11:30 am

      Aw thanks! I think the reason that we found it so easy to negotiate was because we were there in April… I can imagine or budget would probably have doubled if we travelled in December!

  • Anita
    17th February 2016 at 11:29 pm

    Interesting tips, few of them contradicting my regular planning assumptions, like using travel agents and not booking hotels in advance. Thank you.

    • Nicole Louise
      18th February 2016 at 11:30 am

      Thanks Anita 🙂

  • Sarah
    17th February 2016 at 11:35 pm

    Love these tips! They’re really practical and things I would share with a friend too!
    Sarah recently posted…How to Get 1000 Followers on Twitter in 28 DaysMy Profile

  • Lottie Reeves
    18th February 2016 at 12:29 am

    These are some great tips, thanks. I definitely have the tendency to convert prices to funds and suddenly feel like I really *need* that extra pashmina because its only £1! I will try to put some of these into practise in my upcoming trip to Vietnam.
    Lottie Reeves recently posted…How To Teach Overseas And Travel The World: Part 1My Profile

    • Nicole Louise
      18th February 2016 at 11:32 am

      The struggle is so real! Even now in Korea I still tend to think I’m getting a good deal because something is “just a fiver!” Hope you have an amazing time in Vietnam. A country I would love to visit, and I’m sure your pounds will stretch far in 🙂

  • Melissa Leger
    18th February 2016 at 12:34 am

    Travel in SLOW season! Yes, I never understand unless people are traveling with kids, why everyone wants to go when everyone else is going. The service is bad and the weather is hot.

    • Nicole Louise
      18th February 2016 at 11:36 am

      Definitely! Much better service, fewer people, double win!

  • Andrea
    18th February 2016 at 1:30 am

    But…but….I LOVE AC! Hahah give me Air Con or give me death! 😀 Great post though for maximizing your money somewhere that’s already pretty cost effective!

    • Nicole Louise
      5th April 2016 at 9:52 am

      Haha I really hate AC- I hate being cold! So I don’t miss it. Thanks for your comment 🙂

  • Daniela
    18th February 2016 at 4:36 am

    I´m surprised how easy it can be 🙂 India is on my travel list but not sure if I will make it in the next 3 years but saved it just in advance 🙂

    Thanks for the great tips.

    Regards,
    Daniela

    • Nicole Louise
      18th February 2016 at 11:36 am

      Thanks Daniela! India is definitely worth putting on your bucket list, hope you get the chance to visit 🙂

  • Tricia @ The Adventure List
    18th February 2016 at 6:14 am

    I have read much about India travel because it doesn’t appeal to the traveler in me but what does Dehli Belly mean?
    Tricia @ The Adventure List recently posted…Rantings of a Tired Hostel GuestMy Profile

    • Nicole Louise
      18th February 2016 at 11:35 am

      Basically it just means getting food poisoning, or a dodgy stomach from eating. Can apply to anywhere in the world, but I think it’s called Dehli Belly because it’s so common there!

  • Cassie @ Cass Travels
    18th February 2016 at 6:14 pm

    I can’t imagine those temps without air con!!! I’d love to see India one day though 🙂

    • Nicole Louise
      19th February 2016 at 9:08 am

      Never underestimate the power of a good fan! 🙂

  • Sarah
    18th February 2016 at 7:03 pm

    India’s on my bucket list, and these are really great practical tips for when I go… hopefully it’s soon! Pinning this 🙂
    Sarah recently posted…Best Restaurants in StamfordMy Profile

    • Nicole Louise
      25th February 2016 at 10:25 am

      Hey love! Just found your comment in my spam pile, oh no!! Hope you get to India soon 🙂 Thanks for the pin!

  • Brenda
    18th February 2016 at 11:37 pm

    Loved this post!
    I never had pretty clear the idea of visiting India, but now you almost got me convinced.

    • Nicole Louise
      19th February 2016 at 9:09 am

      Thanks! You should definitely go if you get the chance, I totally recommend it 🙂

  • Cynthia
    20th February 2016 at 1:23 am

    India looks like an amazing place to visit. I’ve heard such great things about it from so many people. Thanks for these great tips!
    Cynthia recently posted…The 8 Must-See Waterfalls in the City of WaterfallsMy Profile

    • Nicole Louise
      20th February 2016 at 2:01 pm

      Thanks for your comment! It’s amazing, I’d recommend it to anyone who ever has the chance to go 🙂

  • Mary @ Green Global Travel
    23rd February 2016 at 9:42 am

    Great advice for budget travelers in India! It’s wonderful to know that going veggie in India can bring about savings as well as drinking chai.

    • Nicole Louise
      25th February 2016 at 10:24 am

      Thanks! It must be one of the most veggie friendly countries in the world 🙂 And drinking chai everyday is definitely not too much of a challenge for me <3

  • nikki yadav
    2nd April 2016 at 4:27 pm

    Very nice post and pic.

    • Nicole Louise
      5th April 2016 at 9:52 am

      Thank you!

  • Nikita yadav
    26th April 2016 at 5:11 pm

    Very attractive Image you are looking cute.

  • Nikita yadav
    26th April 2016 at 5:12 pm

    Please tell me your next trip in India.

  • Louise Allonby
    30th June 2016 at 6:19 am

    Fantastic post and blog. Always dreamed of going to India one day

    • Nicole Louise
      1st July 2016 at 1:17 pm

      Thanks Louise, I hope you manage to make it there one day!

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  • Douglas Chorpita
    14th December 2016 at 7:11 pm

    Great website. I can tell that this is WordPress under the hood. 🙂 I am headed to Kochi in four weeks. So excited. You got it right: Cheap is less expensive. But cheap can also be super fun.

    • Nicole Louise
      19th December 2016 at 9:00 pm

      Thanks, it is indeed wordpress! Kochi is an awesome city. Check out Happy Camper hostel for a great, budget friendly place to stay ?

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  • Xenia
    4th February 2017 at 8:17 pm

    Hi Nicole, the hotel you stayed in Udaipur looks fantastic especially for only 450 eps I would love to stay there. Can you please give me the name of the hotel?
    Many thanks.

    • Nicole Louise
      9th February 2017 at 11:12 am

      Hi Xenia, it’s called Nukkad Guesthouse. I’ve added a link to it in the post after seeing your comment 🙂

  • Advika @Tours In India
    15th February 2017 at 2:56 pm

    Hi Nicole Louise, I am glad to know that you enjoyed your India visit. You have shared great tips here and I found it interesting and informative

    • Nicole Louise
      15th February 2017 at 4:53 pm

      Thanks very much, Advika!

  • Agness of a TukTuk
    16th February 2017 at 1:37 pm

    Great tips! India is always on the list for budget travel, I’m sure, like myself, they find your article very helpful for their upcoming journey to India. India was a blast for me. I enjoyed reading through your write up, keep it up!
    Agness of a TukTuk recently posted…How to NOT Get Robbed Abroad – Tips for Staying Safe while TravelingMy Profile

    • Nicole Louise
      19th February 2017 at 2:15 pm

      Thanks so much Agness! I’m a huge fan of your etramping so it’s cool to see your face around here! India is my favourite destination ever. I love everything about it but especially the amount of rupees I have left in my pocket at the end of the day 🙂

  • Julian
    1st August 2017 at 10:53 am

    Thanks for the tips. We will be traveling around Rajasthan in two weeks and these insights will come in useful. I am looking forward to the train rides 🙂 So you never really used booking.com or agoda for overnights? I know you might get better rates but it could also turn out to take forever to find a good place.
    Julian recently posted…Exploring the Magic Temple city of Bagan, MyanmarMy Profile

  • IndiaSomeDay
    17th November 2017 at 1:00 pm

    When you travel in India, how much money can we travel in, you have explained it abundantly. I read your blog and got excellent information about cheap travel. Thanks for sharing this so interesting post! I really want to be thankful for the way you have put it here.

    • Nicole Louise
      17th November 2017 at 2:05 pm

      You’re welcome, glad it’s helpful!

  • Sanjiv Mishra
    19th July 2018 at 4:01 pm

    This is the best guide on budget travel to India. Really helpful for a first-time traveller. Thanks for sharing the tips with us. I really enjoyed reading blog post.

  • arati
    27th August 2018 at 4:51 pm

    Very nice tips and observations of india travel.

  • Plan Visit India
    23rd December 2018 at 1:45 am

    Thanks for sharing this wonderful information for representing full explanation of budget travel and top tips for travelling to India I’ve enjoyed reading the post. It is exceptionally supportive and useful post.

  • Roshan
    6th July 2019 at 10:55 am

    Just the north east part of India left on my list. Hopefully, I can do it this year.

  • vliegtuig volgen
    3rd January 2020 at 9:28 pm

    It’s very cheap to travel in India unless you need to stay in a luxurious hotel, book a private taxi, and dine at a famous multi cuisine restaurant. The most important things to save money in your trip is to book a budget hotel that provides all the facilities and amenities in an affordable price. Also you should choose shared transportation and dine in a budget restaurant.

  • flightradar online
    18th February 2020 at 4:23 pm

    The way you wrote everything that’s so good. Thank you for sharing with us. I will plan to visit India soon.

  • Shree Jha
    29th April 2020 at 12:56 pm

    India is a developing nation so the cost of living in India is not that high. So there are many things that are at cheap price according to other countries.

  • transport in india
    19th May 2020 at 1:38 pm

    Haha oh dear, your husband and grandfather were not doing well for themselves. It makes a good story though which is half of what travelling is about.
    transport in india recently posted…Delhi tourism, history, best time, food, places, stay, nightlife, shoppingMy Profile

  • Akshartours
    21st May 2020 at 11:48 pm

    Amazing article to visit India. We are planning to visit the Taj Mahal next January so we are looking for a cheap flight from New York to India. You’re all tips very helpful to us. Thanks for sharing an informative article.

  • One day picnic in Mumbai
    17th July 2020 at 9:11 pm

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  • samyak Jain
    13th February 2021 at 5:39 pm

    A very exciting blog that benefits travelers exploring budget travel trips.

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