Overview
India defies simple description — it is a subcontinent of 1.4 billion people spanning ancient temple complexes, Himalayan peaks, tropical backwaters, desert fortresses, and megacity chaos. The Taj Mahal alone justifies a visit, but India’s true magic lies in its overwhelming sensory experience: the colors of Rajasthan, the spices of Kerala, the spirituality of Varanasi, and the kindness of strangers everywhere. It is also one of the world’s most affordable destinations.
The Indian rupee (INR) is used (roughly 83 INR = 1 USD). India is extraordinarily cheap — budget travelers routinely spend $15-$25/day while living well. The tourist season varies by region: October-March for most of India, April-September for the Himalayas. The monsoon (June-September) brings heavy rain to most of the country but lower prices and lush green landscapes.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($15-$30/day): Stay in guesthouses or budget hotels ($5-$15/night), eat at dhabas and street food stalls ($2-$5/day), travel by train and local bus ($0.50-$10), and visit temples and public spaces (many free or $0.50-$5).
Mid-Range ($40-$80/day): Book mid-range hotels ($20-$60/night), dine at restaurants ($6-$15/day), fly between cities ($25-$80), and add guided tours, cooking classes, and experiences ($10-$30).
Luxury ($120-$400+/day): Reserve luxury hotels or palace stays ($80-$400+/night), enjoy fine dining ($20-$60/day), travel by first-class train or private car ($30-$100/day), and book exclusive experiences like tiger safaris and houseboat cruises ($100-$300).
How to Save Money in India
- Eat at dhabas (roadside restaurants) and street food stalls where a full thali meal costs $1-$3.
- Travel by Indian Railways in sleeper class — the iconic train experience costs $2-$15 for long journeys.
- Drink chai from street vendors for $0.10-$0.30 per cup — the national drink is practically free.
- Negotiate auto-rickshaw prices before getting in — or use ride-hailing apps like Ola for fixed prices.
- Book domestic flights with IndiGo or SpiceJet for fares as low as $25-$50 between major cities.
Worth the Splurge
- The Taj Mahal at sunrise — watching dawn light transform the world’s most famous building ($15 entry for foreigners).
- A Kerala houseboat cruise through the backwaters — floating past palm trees and village life ($50-$150 for a day cruise).
- A tiger safari in Ranthambore or Bandhavgarh National Park ($30-$80 per game drive).
- A cooking class learning to make regional specialties — every state has its own cuisine ($10-$25).
