✈️ Introduction
More Indians are traveling abroad than ever before—and you don’t need a huge budget to join them. From Thailand’s beaches to Nepal’s mountains, there are stunning destinations just a few hours away that won’t break the bank.
In this post, you’ll discover the best budget-friendly countries for Indian travelers in 2025, along with costs, visa tips, and smart travel hacks.
Let’s get started.
🌟 Top Budget International Destinations from India
Let’s explore some of the most affordable and culturally rich destinations you can visit from India in 2025.
🇳🇵 Nepal: The Himalayan Haven
- Total Trip Cost: ₹25,000–₹45,000 for 7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹9,000 (Delhi to Kathmandu)
- Visa: Not required for Indians
- Highlights: Himalayan landscapes, Kathmandu, Pokhara, trekking, temples
- Stay: Hostels from ₹300/night; budget hotels from ₹600/night
- Best Time: October–November
Why Go: Nepal offers breathtaking mountain views, serene monasteries, and vibrant local culture. It’s a paradise for trekkers and spiritual seekers alike.
Pro Tip: Indian nationals don’t need a visa to enter Nepal, making it an easy and hassle-free destination.
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka: The Emerald Isle
- Total Trip Cost: ₹27,000–₹35,000 for 7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹8,000 (Chennai); ₹20,000 (Delhi)
- Visa: Not required till 31st May 2024 (check for updates)
- Highlights: Beaches, tea plantations, Kandy, Colombo, cultural heritage
- Stay: Dorms from ₹600/night; hotels from ₹1,000/night
- Best Time: November–April
Why Go: With its lush green landscapes, ancient temples, and pristine beaches, Sri Lanka offers a diverse experience for travelers.
Pro Tip: Explore the scenic train rides from Kandy to Ella for a picturesque journey through tea plantations and mountains.
🇹🇭 Thailand: The Land of Smiles
- Total Trip Cost: ₹35,000–₹50,000 for 6–7 days
- Flight Cost: ₹9,000 (Kolkata); ₹17,000–₹20,000 (Delhi/Mumbai)
- Visa: No visa required till 11th November 2024 (check for updates)
- Highlights: Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, beaches, temples, street food
- Stay: Hostels from ₹573/night
- Best Time: November–April
Why Go: Thailand is renowned for its vibrant street life, ancient temples, floating markets, and traditional festivals. Cities like Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Chiang Mai are cultural hubs, offering everything from temple tours to local handicraft markets and authentic street food.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the floating markets and traditional Thai massages for a unique experience.
Must Read: Discover the Best Hill Stations in South India: Nature, Culture & Cool Escapes
🇰🇭 Cambodia: The Kingdom of Wonder
- Total Trip Cost: ₹25,000–₹35,000 for 5–7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹25,000 (Delhi to Phnom Penh)
- Visa: Required
- Highlights: Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, beaches
- Stay: Hostels from ₹300/night
- Best Time: November–April
Why Go: Cambodia is home to the world-famous Angkor Wat and a wealth of Khmer heritage. The country’s temples, local markets, and traditional arts offer a unique Southeast Asian cultural experience.
Pro Tip: Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather conditions.
🇮🇩 Indonesia (Bali): The Island of Gods
- Total Trip Cost: ₹40,000–₹45,000 for 5–7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹25,000 (Delhi/Mumbai to Jakarta/Bali)
- Visa: Required
- Highlights: Bali, beaches, volcanoes, culture, spas
- Stay: Hostels from ₹700/night
- Best Time: May–September
Why Go: Bali is not just one of the cheapest countries to visit from India but also a locale which is strewn with beaches and clear sea, as well as, tropical forests. As known for its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, Bali is often termed as ‘The Island of the Gods’.
Pro Tip: Explore the lesser-known Nusa Islands for a more tranquil experience away from the crowds.
🇲🇾 Malaysia: Truly Asia
- Total Trip Cost: ₹38,000–₹40,000 for 7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹16,000 (Delhi to Kuala Lumpur)
- Visa: No visa required till 31st December 2024 (check for updates)
- Highlights: Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, rainforests, food
- Best Time: October–April
Why Go: Malaysia offers a pleasant climate with an abundance of the sea. While the country offers numerous picturesque locations including not just the sea but also wildlife and greenery, this country is also one of the most technologically driven nations in Southeast Asia.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the street food in Penang, known as the food capital of Malaysia.
🇧🇹 Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon
- Total Trip Cost: ₹25,000–₹50,000 for 6 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹6,000 (to Bagdogra, then road to border)
- Visa: Not required for Indians
- Highlights: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, monasteries, Himalayan scenery
- Stay: Guesthouses from ₹500/night
- Best Time: March–May
Why Go: Bhutan offers an authentic Himalayan cultural experience, with stunning monasteries, dzongs (fortresses), traditional festivals (like Paro Tshechu), and a focus on Gross National Happiness. The country retains its unique traditions and has minimal tourist crowds.
Pro Tip: Attend a local festival to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture.
🇱🇦 Laos: The Hidden Gem
- Total Trip Cost: ₹30,000 for 7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹15,000 (Delhi to Vientiane)
- Visa: Visa on arrival
- Highlights: Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Mekong River, culture
- Stay: Hotels from ₹700/night
- Best Time: October–April
Why Go: Laos is a serene destination with rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life. It’s perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Pro Tip: Take a slow boat ride on the Mekong River for a unique perspective of the country.
🇻🇳 Vietnam: The Land of the Ascending Dragon
- Total Trip Cost: ₹45,000–₹50,000 for 7 days
- Flight Cost: From ₹25,000 (Delhi to Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City)
- Visa: Required
- Highlights: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, culture, food
Why Go: Vietnam’s culture shines through its colonial architecture, ancient pagodas, bustling markets, and diverse cuisine. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.
Pro Tip: Use sleeper buses to save on transportation costs and experience the country like a local.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Destination | Total Trip Cost (7 days) | Visa Requirement | Key Highlights |
| Nepal | ₹25k–₹45k | No | Himalayas, temples, trekking |
| Sri Lanka | ₹27k–₹35k | No (till May 2024) | Beaches, tea, heritage |
| Thailand | ₹35k–₹50k | No (till Nov 2024) | Beaches, food, nightlife |
| Cambodia | ₹25k–₹35k | Yes | Angkor Wat, beaches, culture |
| Indonesia | ₹40k–₹45k | Yes | Bali, volcanoes, culture |
| Malaysia | ₹38k–₹40k | No (till Dec 2024) | Cities, islands, food |
| Bhutan | ₹25k–₹50k | No | Monasteries, mountains |
| Laos | ₹30k | Visa on arrival | Rivers, culture, landscapes |
| Vietnam | ₹45k–₹50k | Yes | Cities, bays, cuisine |
💡 Tips for Budget International Travel from India
- Book Flights Early: Airfares and accommodation rates are lower when booked in advance.
- Use Budget Accommodations: Hostels and budget hotels are widely available in destinations like Thailand, Indonesia, and Nepal, with prices starting as low as ₹300–₹700 per night.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: For most Southeast Asian destinations, November to April is ideal for pleasant weather and festivals.
- Check Visa Requirements: Most Southeast Asian countries offer visa on arrival or e-visa facilities for Indians. Always check the latest visa policies before booking.
- Use Public Transport: Public transport and shared tours can save money compared to taxis and private excursions.
🧳 Conclusion
International travel from India is more accessible and affordable than ever before. With a variety of packages and flight options, travelers can choose from budget getaways to luxury holidays, all while experiencing diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there’s a destination waiting for you.
So, where will your next adventure take you?
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary based on travel dates, city of departure, and package inclusions. Always check the latest travel advisories and visa requirements before planning your trip.
