Never let your holiday plans be limited by what’s in your bank account! If you are planning a trip during summer time, the good news is that you don’t need to be rich for that. Sure, we all know that cities like Andaman and Kashmir aren’t exactly easy on the wallet. But think a little outside the box and Indian cities are full of bargains. India has it all (well almost), (including cheapest places to visit in India). There are plenty of budget destinations that you can check out in order to have some relaxing time with your loved one. Public transport is affordable and links major cities easily. And each of the different parts of India has retained a strong sense of local identity. Though it is sunny and warm, it is not as hot as in many other parts of the world.
Colorful cities, attractive beaches, stunning sceneries, mesmerizing traditions, lip-smacking cuisine, fairy-tale villages and abundant shopping: get these and more at a shoestring budget! Whether you look forward to a city break, a romantic getaway, a family or beach holiday, a cultural or gastronomic trip, solo or with friends, you will be spoilt for choice. Need even more inspiration?
Here’s some of our favourite Indian holidays where you can enjoy an abundance of family-friendly and fun activities this summer.
1. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Affectionately known as the ‘Lake District of India’, Nainital is one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India and widely famous for its surreal landscapes, lofty mountains and dreamlike lakes. Surrounded by mountains on three sides Nainital is located around the beautiful lake Naini. Where can you go wrong with a beautiful mountain lake flanked by impossibly gorgeous villages? Yes! Lake Naini really is the jewel in Nainital‘s sparkling crown.
There are scenic views from the lakeside promenade of calm waters backed by the rolling hills, as well as, excellent arrangements for boating on the lake. It’s also a paradise for budget-friendly travelers as it’s an easy, walkable city. Despite its popularity, it still won’t break your budget. The accommodation here is the most affordable, and you can get the best of stays with the price you pay for a small room in the bigger cities.
Export yourself to the soothing and refreshing beauty of Nainital.
Tourist places in Nainital: Naini Lake, Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat), Naini Peak, St. John in the Wilderness, Pt G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, Land’s End, Snow View, Gurney House, Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, The Mall Road, Naini Devi Temple, Bhimtal Lake
Things to do: Sightseeing, boating, camping, trekking, shopping, spelunking
If Nainital interests you, we have some Nainital Tour Packages for you.
Also Check: Travel Safe Travel Apna Desh for unbelievable Indian holiday packages.
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
When it comes to mountains, you can’t go wrong with Ooty, which is known for some of the most breathtaking hills in India. Ooty has exquisite vistas and gorgeous snow peaks. With its pretty lakes, crumbly cliffs and beautiful sunsets, you will be captivated by its beauty and charisma. A few places that you should see and do during your visit is exploring the Pykara Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Ooty Coffee House, St Stephen’s church, Tea museum among others.
Offering an abundance of activities including nature walks, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, boat rides, sailing, rowing and cycling in the 60 different nature reserves, it’s all here for the taking. The accommodation in Ooty is pretty reasonable if we compare it to the other cities. Return flights are just under Rs. 3000 from most Indian hubs. Ooty is an especially good value when it’s paired with other India metropolises like Kodaikanal and Mysore.
Treat yourself to a day of thrills at the Avalanche Lake, one of the most picturesque natural attractions in Ooty province.
Tourist places in Ooty: Doddabetta Peak, Ooty Lake, Avalanche Lake, Emerald Lake, Pykara Dam & Reservoir, Rose Garden, Ooty Botanical Gardens, Deer Park, Kalhatty Waterfalls, Mudumalai National Park, Ooty Toy Train, Pykara Waterfalls
Things to do: Sightseeing, shopping, nature walk, waterfalls, wildlife tours
Check out some of our best seller Ooty Tour Packages
3. Goa
Goa needs no introduction. It is the party getaway that is perfect for relaxing and having a great time. Moreover, Goa is one of the best budget-friendly destinations in the whole of India without a lot of money. It has some of the best nightclubs in the world and is also a favourite destination among youth and couples. If you fancy the perfect beach break, well, this is it. With a great music and clubbing scene, the bars and clubs of Goa have become legendary. When not partying, one can enjoy the stunning beaches, explore pristine landscape or visit the historic towns. Follow your wild party nights with therapeutic and relaxing days spent on the jaw-dropping beaches.
With cheap private rooms to rent and lots of really lovely adventure sports and sightseeing spots, the city is perfect for travelers young and old on a budget to kick back and relax. There is cheap public transport as well as bike / car hire; having your own vehicle is the best way to explore more of the city.
Go for a week with a good book, sunscreen and a pocket full of change and you will leave with a tan, a full belly, and a face aching from smiles.
Tourist places in Goa: Aguada Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Calangute Beach, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Shri Mangueshi Temple / Mangeshi Temple, Se Cathedral, Dona Paula Beach
Things to do: Water sports, sightseeing, beach hopping, club hopping, sunbathing, cruising, shopping
Goa interests you? Check out the customized Goa Tour Packages we have for you
4. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
A beautiful city in Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry has both medieval and Jewish influences. Home to many interesting museums, antique wooden buildings, marvellous architecture, medieval old town and buzzing concert halls, this union territory is considered a cultural and holiday center. Expect to see some charming architecture in this old town. This heart of India is the home of many spectacular places for all types of vacationers, even if you want to travel on a low budget.
Add to this the heavenly local cuisine and very cheap prices, and you have another destination to add to your Indian backpacking adventure. There are accommodation options from beachfront hotels to spots for camping. For budget constraint, stay at Aurobindo Ashram and enjoy almost free stay and vegetarian food. The city has something for everyone, whether you are an art lover, an architecture enthusiast or a tourist looking for an escape. Not only a place to pick up bargains, Pondicherry’s markets are full of affordable shops and cafés.
Truly, Pondicherry is all about a harmonious fusion of old-world charm and modern culture and trends.
Tourist Places in Pondicherry: Puducherry Museum, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, Kallialay Surf School, Paradise Beach, Promenade beach
Things to do: Water sports, bird watching, boat ride, sightseeing, shopping, heritage walk
Pondicherry intrigues you? Check out our all-inclusive Pondicherry Tour Packages exclusively for you.
5. Auli, Uttarakhand – The Skiing Capital of India
Auli is to India what Swiss Alps is to Europe. Summer or winter, Auli has something unique to offer everyone. Located in the Himalayan Mountains of Uttarakhand about 2500 to 3050 meters above sea level, charming Auli is one of the top 10 skiing destinations in the world with abundant snow throughout the year, lush green forests, fascinating slops and scenic landscapes. Not to miss: The cable car ride will give you enchanting views of the snowy mountains.
Backed by the Himalayas as its backdrop, Auli is every skier’s paradise which is open to the travel enthusiasts throughout the year. Apart from skiing, trekking, camping and related activities, you can also enjoy several attractions and the likes in the summers. This makes Auli a year-round holiday destination.
Auli can be reached easily by various modes of transport as it is well connected to all major cities of India via air, rail and road. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and Rishikesh railway station are the nearest airport and railhead, serving Auli respectively. For budget travelers, opt for accommodation in Joshinath. The GMVN Joshimal Resort offers accommodation at reasonable costs with free breakfast.
If you want to enjoy the perks of winter during the summer season, Auli is the place to visit. Make the most of sun, snow & slop at this ski resort.
Tourist places in Auli: Trishul Peak, Chattrakund, Auli Artificial Lake, Chenab Lake, Auli Char Lift, Gorson Bugyal, Joshimath, Auli Ropeway, Kwani Bugyal, Narsingh Temple
Things to do: Hiking, skiing, camping, sightseeing, ropeway Ride, trekking
Find Auli interesting? Explore cheap Uttarakhand Tour Packages here.
6. Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey a budget city? Yes, really. You get to experience and enjoy the fresh air, the tranquil backwaters, mouth-watering delicacies and pleasant warmth of the people in the province. Alleppey (also called Alappuzha) is most celebrated for its alluring backwater cruises, which is not only a fabulous way of exploring the fascinating beauty of the backwaters, the small villages and the lives of the people living there but also a way to connect with oneself and the nature around.
A favourite hotspot among honeymooners!
Alleppey is a fantastic way to see Kerala and experience the culture. Interestingly, the city of Alleppey was termed “Venice of the East” by Lord Curzon due to the striking backwaters, short canals, lagoons, and beaches. But there’s more to Alleppey than sun, sea and sand; you’ll find interesting cities; crammed with museums, churches, restaurants, tempting Keralite seafood and some of the wildest coastlines.
Though a holiday in Alleppey is not that cheap in comparison to other places, but Akbar Travels hosts a variety of budget-friendly Kerala holiday packages to suit all budgets. Kerala has a reputation of being expensive, but it tends to be the plush, top-end hotels and restaurants primarily geared towards tourists that seem to skew the preconception slightly. You’ll find that you can actually get a lot for your rupee with our value packed super saver Kerala packages.
If there’s one thing you should splash out on here, it’s a houseboat tour of the Kerala backwaters.
Tourist places in Alleppey: Karumadikkutan, Vembanad Lake, Alleppey Beach, Kerala Backwaters, Mannarasala Temple, Krihnapuram Palace, Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Pallippuram, Kuttanad, Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Marari Beach
Things to do: Alleppey houseboat, Alleppey backwaters, gastronomy, sightseeing, Ayurvedic & spa treatments, temple visits
Inspired to travel? Explore our affordable Kerala Tour Packages
7. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Situated in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 1706 meters (5,597 feet) above sea level, Lansdowne is one of the quietest and picturesque hill stations of India. Surrounded with oak and verdant pine forests, Lansdowne has an old-world charm that lures travelers from all over. The drive to Lansdowne is especially striking, as the ride cuts through thickly forested countryside roads, vineyards, tiny hamlets, lush farmlands and beautiful country scenery. Moreover, this hill station is bounded by the surging Himalayan mountain ranges, which make it completely serene for travelers who have a taste for Eco-tourism. It was originally a popular hill station with the Britishers. Fascinated by its pleasant climate and natural beauty, they established it as the regimental center of the Garhwal Rifles.
What sets Lansdowne apart from other hill stations is its underrated elegance, quiet, disarming beauty, and close proximity to Delhi (only 250 km away). Summers from March to June are pretty enjoyable in Lansdowne with a pleasant climate. In addition, being an army base, Lansdowne is a well-maintained, harmonized, and spotless town.
Everything about this place is way easier on the pocket. Here, you can do plenty of things at very low costs on attractions, museums and food. Furthermore, accommodation venues are quite budget-friendly as well. And with a lot of cheap flights available from all major cities to Delhi, this Indian beauty should be number 1 on your Indian budget-travel bucket list.
Leaving all your worries far behind; tall oak and blue pine trees promise to rejuvenate your body and soul.
Tourist Places in Lansdowne: The Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial, Tip-n-Top Point, St. Mary’s Church, Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Garhwali Museum & Mess, Bhulla Tal, Kanvashram, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Tiffin Top, Bhim Pakora, Hawaghar
Things to do: Trekking, bird watching, nature walk, boating, stargazing, historical experiences, jungle walks
We promise fun unlimited with our Uttarakhand Holidays Packages
8. Matheran, Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s hill station Matheran is always a good bet for an all-inclusive break. Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is the smallest hill station in all of India that stands at an elevation of 800 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. The region supports a pollution-free environment, therefore no motor vehicle is permitted inside the town, making it Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. This lush green beauty with serene environment is best accessed via the slow-moving toy train which moves along over a leisurely two-hour-long journey from the valley, offering the most stunning views of the plains below.
Whether you want to get away from the city for a few days or looking for adventure, Matheran is one of the best places to head to.
Besides the cheap prices, its a wealth of beautiful landscapes, jaw-dropping views and the reliable weather making it a firm favourite for Mumbaikars – throughout the year you’re pretty much guaranteed a warm climate and plenty of sunshine. In addition to being easy on the eyes, Matheran is often easier on the wallet than sunny spots elsewhere, especially if you go in off seasons and avoid travel during the peak period. Maharashtra’s gem is a budget traveler’s dream with inexpensive accommodations, amazing food and astounding natural beauty that costs nothing to explore. Frugal travelers can easily enjoy a holiday here for less than Rs. 500/day.
Untouched, unspoiled and unbelievably tranquil, this popular tourist hill station in Maharashtra offering around 38 breath-taking peaks is an awesome getaway for a cheap summer holiday.
Tourist Places in Matheran: Panorama Point, Echo Point, Dodhani Waterfalls, Chanderi Caves, Charlotte Lake, Prabhal Fort, Ambarnath Temple, Louisa Point, Kalavantin Pinnacle, Irshalgad Fort, Little Chowk Point,
Things to do: Toy train, hiking, camping, rock climbing, boating, sightseeing
9. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Sun, lakes, mountains, fresh air and meadow flowers with the chime of bells in the background — this is summer in the mountains of Kasol. Spread out along the divine Parvati River and with snow-clad mountain views, Kasol is a charming little village in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Also known as Stoners Paradise, Kasol attracts adventure buffs, nature lovers, trekkers and backpackers throughout the year. Once a sleepy hamlet, Kasol has now become a huge hub for tourists from around the world. Tourists are attracted to this heavenly abode due to its scenic valley, untouched hills, snow clad Himalayas, low population, beautiful climate and above all wild charas, a hand-made hashish made from the cannabis that is plentiful in this region.
Kasol is also known as ‘Mini Israel’ due to a large number of tourists from Israel. The village is famous for its adventurous trekking trails, which include treks to Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, Kheerganga, hot springs and Pin Parbati Pass.
Apart from its spell bounding beauty, its affordability is almost as rave-worthy. Kasol is a wonderful little place to explore during a quick city break and its budget-friendly cost of living will please everyone! There are lots of cheaper places to stay around Kasol, as well as a number of campsites and holiday homes.
If nature travel is what excites you, plan a trip to Kasol right away!
Tourist places in Kasol: Kheer Ganga Peak, Parvati River, Tosh Village, Chhalal Village, Malana, Pin Parvati Pass, Sar Pass Trek, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Rasol, Tirthan Valley,
Things to do: Backpacking, camping, trekking, hiking, stargazing, bike riding, solo travel
Charmed? Here are our popular Himachal Tour Packages just for you.
10. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Here’s another classic hill station of the Indian state Tamil Nadu offering excellent value for money, all-inclusive deals that are 20% cheaper than they were in 2019 on Akbartravels.com. Situated in the hills of Dindigul of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is an enchanting hill station well known for its jaw-dropping rolling hills, stunning meadows and grasslands, breathtaking views, lush greenery, and historical relevance. The name Kodaikanal means “The gift of the forest”. No wonder, the landscape boasts of beautiful Eucalyptus and Shola trees, mighty streams and mesmerizing waterfalls.
Typically, travelers hike from hill to hill, taking in some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes along the way.
This is a city where you can really enjoy the finer things in life, even if you’re strapped for cash. It is one of the few places where you can feel like you are living the high life on a shoestring budget. Thanks to affordable prices, gorgeous valleys and numerous sightseeings, Kodaikanal has become a top draw in India.
Fun times and plenty of ghastly Kodak moments!
Tourist Places in Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascada Falls, Green Valley View, Bryant Park, Dolphins Nose, Coakers Walk, Thalaiyar Falls, Kukkal Caves, Berijam Lake, Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple
Things to do: Nature walks, sightseeing, relaxing, hiking, waterfalls
Don’t just dream! Make it true with our Kodaikanal Tour Packages
11. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
If you want to discover one of the trendiest destinations in India, Manali is definitely the place to go. Surrounded by the majestic snow clad mountains and lush green woods, Manali is a beautiful hill station that lies in the lap of the Himalayas. The city attracts travellers from around the world. As one of the oldest and most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, Manali is a magical land that blends tradition, global cultures, art, and not to mention, the quintessential Himalayan life.
Evolving as an adventure sports capital of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is a complete delight for adventure seekers. It is a paradise for skiers and one of the best snow destinations in the world. From paragliding, climbing and rolling down the mountains, the hill station offers many heart thumping games and activities to adventure enthusiasts apart from tranquility and peace. Other than the winter season, Summers are also the best time to visit Manali. When the temperatures are soaring during the scorching summers in other parts of India, Manali enjoys a cool summer temperature between 10-25 degrees and the weather remains enjoyable.
Yes, Manali can be an expensive city to visit on this list of cheap Indian destinations, but here’s a tip to make it a budget-friendly holiday. For a real bargain, check out Akbartravels.com, where you can regularly find Manali packages under Rs 35,000 per person, including flights from major Indian cities and budget lodgings.
A word of advice: your Instagram account is at risk of blowing up if you share all the photos you will be taking! Such a slice of Heaven it is!
Tourist Places in Manali: Solang Valley, Jogini Waterfalls, Beas River, Old Manali, The Manali Gompa, Hadimba Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Hampta Pass, Nehru Kund, Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave), Van Vihar, Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, Manali Nature Park, Vashist,
Things to do: Sightseeing, Cable car, Adventure sports such as skiing, paragliding, camping, river rafting, zorbing
If you want to discover Manali, then we have some customized Manali Tour Packages for you.
12. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, India’s Own Mini Tibet
A lesser-known tourist destination in India, McLeod Ganj was a revelation that was waiting to be explored. Tourists flock to this tiny hill station to escape the scorching heat of the plains. Located in the heart of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, McleodGanj is also known as Little Lhasa because of its large population of Tibetans. The city has a very rich heritage and culture.
Apart from fine Tibetan learning’s, Buddhist temples and unique rock formations, Mcleodganj also offers picturesque landscapes, emerald like dreamy plantations as well as adrenaline-pumped adventure sports. Travelling around Mcleodganj is very cheap. Visit Namgyal Monastery, the personal monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama, where you can take in the tranquil atmosphere and visit the grounds.
Food, transport and sightseeing are very affordable in Mcleod Ganj. The cost of accommodation is also super competitive; you may be pleasantly surprised what you can afford with your budget.
Open your eyes, beauty is all around you!
Tourist Places in Mcleod Ganj: Naddi View Point, Dal Lake, Bhagsunath Temple & Waterfall, Kangra Valley, Triund, Dharamkot, Guna Devi Temple, Namgyal Monastery, Kareri Lake, Minkiani Pass, Dhauladhar Ranges
Things to do: Tibeten food, paragliding, trekking, camping, boating, waterfalls, soak in Tibetan culture
Enjoy double the fun, triple the happiness with our Himachal Holiday Packages
13. Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is probably not on your short list but it should be on your bucket list. The city setting is stunning with a rich historical, religious and architectural heritage: it offers an unmatched combination of culture, blooming gastronomy and the advantages of world heritage sights. When visiting be sure to explore the almighty Golden Temple, Akal Takht, Jallianwala Bagh, and Gobindgarh Fort. Stroll through its shopping streets and marvel at the beauty of its Golden Temple. Even the sky does not seem to be a limit for Amritsar and its inhabitants! Shopaholic? No problem, Amritsar offers a unique experience with a mix of traditional shops, vibrant markets and shopping centers. Explore the local markets like Hall Bazaar, Guru Bazaar and Shastri Market for a heavenly experience.
Many travelers believe that Amritsar isn’t a cheap place to travel to, but that is simply not true. Guided tours are very reasonable and give amazing insights into the city’s history, religion and street food scene, to name but a few! Book our Amritsar tour packages and you’ll be able to really enjoy and experience the many sights and sounds of this fascinating city worry-free, no matter how large or small your budget is! Be prepared to spend nominally, but gain a lot — of pleasant experiences.
This India destination has an unexplained beauty that startles all those who visit it.
Tourist Places in Amritsar: The Golden Temple, Wagah Border, Jallianwala Bagh, Guru Ke Mahal, Hall Bazaar, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Partition Museum, Mandir Mata Lal Devi, Baba Atal Tower, Ram Bagh Gardens, Harmandir Sahib
Things to do: Temple visits, sightseeing, shopping, try Punjabi street food
Find Amritsar interesting? Explore our Amritsar Tour Packages
Here it is!
These are the cheapest Indian vacations destinations you can go to and enjoy as much as you want without having to worry about exceeding the budget. And who knows, you will end up having the time of your life.
Also, try booking your travel well in advance to get the best of flight and holiday deals at a much lesser cost. Today is the perfect day to plan your next summer holiday in India.
Travel more and spend less!
Wait, we have more for your trip:
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