Travelling the world doesn’t have to be expensive. For Indian travellers looking for budget-friendly international destinations, there are plenty of affordable options. This article explores the top 10 cheapest countries to travel to from India, highlighting costs, visa requirements, food availability, and top attractions, so you can plan your next adventure without breaking the bank.

1. Nepal

Nepal, India’s friendly neighbour, is a fantastic choice for a cheap country to visit. The Himalayan country is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable travel options.

Trip Costs:

• Tour Packages: Prices range from INR 9,700 to INR 95,000 depending on the duration and inclusivity. For example, a 4-day trip could cost around INR 15,899.
• Daily Expenses: Budget travellers can manage with INR 2,500–3,500 per day.

Flight Prices: Flights from India to Kathmandu range between INR 10,000 and INR 20,000 for a round trip.

Visa Requirements: Indian citizens are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days.

Food: Nepal offers various vegetarian and non-vegetarian options such as Dal Bhat, momos, and yak meat dishes.

Accommodation: Prices range from INR 800 to INR 7,000 per night, depending on your budget.

Top Attractions:

• Kathmandu Valley (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Chitwan National Park
• Lumbini (Buddha’s birthplace)
2. Sri Lanka

   A short flight away, Sri Lanka offers affordable beaches, wildlife, and historical landmarks, making it the cheapest place to travel from India while still having some diversity in your itinerary.

   Trip Costs:

   • Tour Packages: Budget trips start at INR 30,000, while luxury options go up to INR 1,00,000.
   • Daily Expenses: A budget traveller can expect to spend around INR 2,000 to INR 3,000 per day.

   Flight Prices: One-way fares range from INR 8,000 to INR 22,000 depending on the departure city and time of booking. Also get yourself flight travel insurance coverage while travelling by flights.

   Visa Requirements: Indians can get a visa on arrival or apply online before travelling. A 30-day visa is available for around INR 2,500.

   Food: Sri Lanka offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, including seafood and rice curries.

   Accommodation: Budget hotels start at INR 1,000 per night, with mid-range options between INR 3,000 and INR 8,000.

   Top Attractions:

   • Sigiriya Rock Fortress
   • Beaches like Bentota and Arugam Bay
   • Yala National Park (wildlife safaris)
   • Tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya
3. Laos

Laos is an underrated destination with rich cultural experiences and adventure, perfect for those looking for a cheap country to travel from India.

Trip Costs: A budget traveller might spend between INR 60,000 and INR 90,000 for a week, including accommodation, meals, and internal transport.

Flight Prices: Round-trip flights from India to Vientiane cost around INR 40,000 to INR 50,000.

Visa Requirements: Indian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for around INR 4,200.

Food: Laotian cuisine features rice-based dishes, with limited vegetarian options but plenty of non-veg choices.

Accommodation: Prices range from INR 4,000 to INR 9,000 per night.

Top Attractions:

• Pha That Luang (Golden stupa)
• Kuang Si Waterfalls
• Luang Prabang (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Adventure activities in Vang Vieng

Also Read: Sources of Vitamin D for Vegetarians

4. Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular international destinations for Indians, offering a blend of vibrant culture, beaches, and nightlife at an affordable price.

Trip Costs: A budget traveller can expect to spend around INR 1,800 to INR 4,000 per day on food and accommodation.

Flight Prices: Round-trip flights to Thailand range from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000.

Visa Requirements: A tourist visa costs around INR 5,000 and is valid for 30 days.

Food: Thailand offers plenty of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including street food staples like pad Thai and grilled meats.

Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels cost around INR 1,800 to INR 4,000 per night.

Top Attractions:

• Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
• Beaches of Phuket and Krabi
• Floating markets
• Ayutthaya Historical Park (UNESCO)
5. Cambodia

Cambodia is famous for its ancient temples and affordable travel costs, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers.

Trip Costs: Budget accommodation and food costs approximately INR 2,000 to INR 8,000 per night.

Flight Prices: Airfare from India to Cambodia ranges from INR 25,000 to INR 50,000.

Visa Requirements: Tourist visas can be obtained online or on arrival for around INR 2,000 to INR 5,000.

Food: Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including Amok and Khmer BBQ, are widely available.

Accommodation: Budget options cost INR 2,000 to INR 3,500 per night.

Top Attractions:

• Angkor Wat
• Phnom Penh
• Sihanoukville (beaches)
• Battambang (colonial architecture)
6. Bhutan

For Indian travellers, Bhutan offers a serene, culturally immersive experience, perfect for those looking to relax in a beautiful and peaceful setting.

Trip Costs: A typical 5-day trip to Bhutan costs around INR 27,000 per person, excluding flights.

Flight Prices: Flights from Indian cities to Bhutan cost around INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 for a round trip.

Visa Requirements: Indians do not need a visa but must carry a passport or voter ID. A special area permit is required for certain regions.

Food: Bhutanese cuisine is heavily vegetarian-friendly, with dishes like Ema Datshi (chili cheese).

Accommodation: Budget hotels cost between INR 1,500 and INR 3,000 per night.

Top Attractions:

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery
• Punakha Dzong
• Bumthang Valley
• Thimphu
7. Philippines

The Philippines is known for its tropical islands, clear blue waters, and affordable travel options, making it a top choice for beach lovers.

Trip Costs: A 7-day trip might cost around INR 60,000 to INR 90,000 depending on the accommodation and activities.

Flight Prices: Round-trip flights from India to the Philippines range between INR 45,000 to INR 90,000.

Visa Requirements: A 14-day tourist visa is required for Indian citizens.

Food: Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available in major cities.

Accommodation: Budget hotels start at INR 2,000 per night.

Top Attractions:

• Boracay Island
• Cebu
• Banaue Rice Terraces
• Chocolate Hills in Bohol
8. Turkey

Turkey is a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and affordable travel costs. It’s an ideal destination for cultural and historical explorations.

Trip Costs: A 7-day trip might cost anywhere from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000.

Flight Prices: Flights to Turkey cost between INR 25,000 and INR 60,000 for a round trip.

Visa Requirements: A tourist visa for Turkey costs INR 3,940 for single entry.

Food: Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are widely available.

Accommodation: Budget hotels cost between INR 2,000 to INR 10,000 per night.

Top Attractions:

• Cappadocia (hot air balloon rides)
• Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar)
• Pamukkale (thermal springs)

Whether you're looking for a cultural escape, an adventure in nature, or a relaxing beach holiday, these cheap countries to visit from India offer something for every type of traveller. By carefully planning and budgeting, you can experience the beauty and diversity of the world without straining your finances. As you plan your international travels, don't forget to secure SBI international travel insurance to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip.

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