Backpacking in India is an adventure in and of itself. India is a myriad of cultures, landscapes to die for, and extremely affordable experiences, so there are myriad opportunities for the traveller who wants to have his adventurine kicked. Every corner in every misty mountain town, golden desert or vibrant beach offers something special without emptying the bag of your pocket. New story is always waiting for you when you go solo or travel with friends.
India is a paradise for budget travelers. Long term travel is affordable transport, low cost stays and lip smacking street food. Not only are the locals friendly, the surviving backpacker communities are too. Before packing your bags, you need to apply for your India Visa beforehand to have a hassle free entry into this colorful and culturally rich country.
Here are the Budget-Friendly Tourist Places to Visit in India
1. Rishikesh – The Adventure Hub
Rishikesh is a backpacker’s magnet set alongside the Ganges River in the Himalayan foothills, a magnet for spirituality and thrill. There is a yoga class you can join, meditation by the river, or thriller activity of white water rafting. Ashrams and hostels are plenty and easy on the wallet and it’s a good stop for those traveling light and living large.
2. Pushkar – The Hippie Vibe Town
Pushkar, a small, colorful, and holy town in Rajasthan, is charming. It is a chilled out place to unwind with its sacred lake, quirky markets and chilled out rooftop cafes. Even in the quieter months, Pushkar is alive with local traditions and traveler stories, and many travelers come to visit during the famous Pushkar Camel Fair. It’s an ideal budget destination due to cheap guesthouses and delicious street food.
3. Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj: India’s Little Tibet
These twin towns in Himachal Pradesh are serene, picturesque, and teeming with cultural diversity. A large Tibetan community and the Dalai Lama are also resident in the city. Top of backpackers list; relaxed vibe, trek ferrets and vegetarian cafes. Meditation or volunteer with local community is also a great thing to learn here. This is an affordable place to long term travel, with plenty of views and stays.
4. Hampi – Ruins, Rocks, and Relaxation
Karnataka’s Hampi is landscape of boulders, ancient temples and paddies of rice. You’re like walking a historic movie set. Bicycles can be rented by backpackers to explore the ruins and the riverside cafes. It’s a vibe, and easy to soak in for several days, with its relaxed pace and low cost guesthouses. This is a travel pause of history and adventure, peace.
5. Varanasi – The Spiritual Capital
Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world and a cultural experience. Seemingly every corner had something magical around it, whether it was in the early morning boat tours along the Ganges, the aarti ceremonies in the evening. It is a deeply immersive place; the age-old temples, the narrow alleys and the market which are busy are all present. Backpackers should add it to their list for a deeper connection to Indian traditions and budget friendly hotels and cheap eats.
6. Goa – Beach Bliss on a Budget
Being a budget traveller, Goa might be known for its beach parties but it is also awesome for those who would want to beat it in a laidback beach. Areas like Palolem and Arambol offer affordable beach huts and yoga retreats. Highlights include renting a scooter for exploring the coastline and giving Goan cuisine a taste. Goa is the place where you can surf or sunbathe and at the same time the place which offers the best mix of relaxation and affordability.
7. Pondicherry – French Charm in South India
Pondicherry blends French colonial charm with Indian culture in the most beautiful way. The historic French Quarter has quiet promenades, quaint bakeries, and pastel buildings. Auroville has unique stay options and volunteering opportunities just outside the city. Pondicherry has plenty of homestays, local cafés and budget guest houses and is an ideal place for travelers who want to take a peaceful, culturally rich, pocket-friendly coastal escape.
8. Kasol & Parvati Valley – Nature, Noodles, and Nirvana
Kasol and the surrounding Parvati Valley is tucked away in Himachal Pradesh and is frequented by nature lovers and backpackers who are looking for peace. Pine forests, gushing rivers and friendly cafes with global and Israeli dishes abound in the area. It is a great base to trek to Kheerganga and nearby villages. Its charm is furthered by budget hostels, riverside camps, making it a peaceful getaway from the busy city life.
Conclusion
India backpacking travel is a mix of cultural, natural beauty festival and warm hospitality without hurting your pocket. Everywhere there is an adventure from the northern mountains to the southern coastlines. All these are places you should consider to reduce your costs and keep your experiences rich while you are on the road for a month or two or even less.
If you are in UAE and want to visit India for backpacking then you must apply for India Visa from UAE in advance. The idea that your vacation will run smoothly, with little planning, is somewhat of an impossibility. Therefore, if you have your backpack, your travel playlist set and are ready to explore India on a budget.
