Travel Abroad on a Budget: 5 Cheapest Countries Indians Can Visit Right Now
Travelling abroad no longer needs to be a luxury reserved for a select few. With smarter planning, visa-friendly destinations, affordable flights, and budget-friendly accommodation options, international travel has become more accessible than ever for Indian travellers. Whether you are a first-time international explorer, a student on a budget, a honeymooning couple, or a family looking for value-packed holidays, there are several countries that offer incredible experiences without straining your wallet.
In recent years, many Asian neighbours of India have opened up to Indian tourists with relaxed visa rules, better connectivity, and competitive pricing. These countries combine beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and warm hospitality, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers. More importantly, the cost of living, accommodation, and local transport in these destinations is significantly lower compared to Europe, the US, or even some parts of Southeast Asia.
5 Cheapest Countries Indians Can Travel to Right Now
From snow-capped mountains to tropical beaches, spiritual retreats to buzzing nightlife, affordable international travel today covers a wide range of experiences. If you are looking to stamp your passport without emptying your savings account, these five destinations—Nepal, Vietnam, Thailand, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka—are among the cheapest and most rewarding countries Indians can travel to right now.
Why Budget-Friendly International Travel Matters for Indians
For Indian travellers, international travel often comes with concerns about currency conversion, visa fees, food costs, and accommodation expenses. However, choosing the right country can dramatically reduce these worries. Destinations closer to India usually have lower airfares, similar food habits, and currencies that are affordable when converted from INR.
Another important factor is visa convenience. Countries like Nepal and Bhutan don’t even require a passport for Indian citizens, while Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam offer easy online or visa-on-arrival options. This eliminates high embassy fees and long waiting periods, making last-minute trips possible and economical.
When you combine low travel costs with high-quality experiences, these destinations become perfect for budget travellers. You can enjoy stunning landscapes, ancient temples, street food, adventure sports, and cultural attractions while spending much less than you would in Western destinations.
Nepal – International Travel at Indian Prices
Nepal is one of the most affordable international destinations for Indian travellers. In fact, it often feels like a seamless extension of India, thanks to open borders, similar food, and cultural connections. Indian citizens do not need a passport or visa to enter Nepal—only a valid government-issued ID—making it one of the easiest countries to visit.
Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan offer a wide variety of experiences, from ancient temples and bustling markets to serene lakes and wildlife safaris. Pokhara, in particular, is a budget traveller’s dream with its lakeside cafés, stunning Himalayan views, and affordable hotels. You can enjoy paragliding, boating, and trekking without paying international prices.
Food and transport in Nepal are extremely affordable. A hearty meal at a local restaurant can cost less than ₹300, and comfortable hotels are available from ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night. With scenic beauty, spiritual heritage, and adventure activities, Nepal offers exceptional value for Indian travellers looking for a low-cost international getaway.
Vietnam – Exotic, Affordable, and Incredibly Beautiful
Vietnam is quickly becoming a favourite among Indian travellers—and for good reason. It offers breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant cities, historical sites, and some of the cheapest travel costs in Southeast Asia. From the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay and the buzzing energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam feels far more luxurious than its price tag suggests.
Flights from India to Vietnam are now more affordable than ever, with direct connections from major cities. Once you arrive, everything—from food to accommodation—is remarkably budget-friendly. A filling Vietnamese meal can cost less than ₹200, and good-quality hotels are easily available for ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night.
Vietnam also offers simple visa processes for Indian travellers through e-visa facilities. Whether you are into beaches, history, street food, or photography, Vietnam delivers world-class experiences at budget-friendly rates, making it one of the cheapest and most exciting international destinations for Indians.
Thailand – The Classic Budget-Friendly International Trip
Thailand has long been a favourite for Indian tourists, and it continues to be one of the most affordable international destinations. With visa-free entry for Indians (subject to government regulations), easy flight connections, and a massive tourism infrastructure, Thailand is perfect for both short trips and longer holidays.
Bangkok offers shopping, nightlife, street food, and temples, while Phuket and Krabi are known for their stunning beaches and island tours. Chiang Mai provides a quieter cultural experience with temples, mountains, and night markets. No matter what kind of traveller you are, Thailand has something for you.
What makes Thailand cheap is its balance between quality and price. You can stay in clean, comfortable hotels for ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night, enjoy meals for under ₹300, and take local transport without spending much. Whether you want a beach holiday, a party trip, or a cultural exploration, Thailand remains one of the best-value international destinations for Indians.
Bhutan – Peaceful, Pristine, and Surprisingly Affordable
Bhutan is one of the most unique countries in the world, and for Indian travellers, it is also one of the most accessible. Indians do not require a visa to enter Bhutan, making it incredibly easy to visit. Known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan offers stunning mountain landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a deep sense of peace and spirituality.
While Bhutan charges a sustainable development fee for international tourists, Indian travellers enjoy special rates that make the country far more affordable. Once inside Bhutan, costs for accommodation, food, and local transport are quite reasonable, especially when compared to other international destinations.
Places like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha offer breathtaking scenery and cultural richness. From the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery to traditional festivals and mountain valleys, Bhutan provides an experience that feels exclusive, yet remains within reach for budget-conscious Indian travellers.
Sri Lanka – Tropical Paradise at Budget Prices
Sri Lanka is one of the most underrated budget travel destinations for Indians. Located just a short flight away, this island nation offers beaches, tea plantations, wildlife, ancient ruins, and a rich culinary culture. Indian travellers enjoy visa-on-arrival or e-visa facilities, making travel smooth and simple.
Colombo, Kandy, Ella, and Galle each offer different experiences—from city life and heritage to hill country beauty and beach relaxation. Sri Lanka is especially popular for honeymooners and families looking for a relaxed, affordable tropical holiday.
Accommodation and food in Sri Lanka are very reasonably priced. You can enjoy comfortable hotels, delicious seafood, and scenic train rides without spending too much. With its natural beauty and cultural depth, Sri Lanka offers exceptional value for Indian travellers seeking a budget-friendly international escape.
Why These Five Countries Are Perfect for Indian Budget Travellers
These destinations share a few important advantages: proximity to India, affordable currencies, easy visa policies, and strong tourism infrastructure. Together, they make international travel not only possible but enjoyable even on a limited budget.
From the Himalayas of Nepal and Bhutan to the tropical beaches of Sri Lanka and Thailand and the vibrant cities of Vietnam, these countries offer diverse experiences without expensive airfare or high daily costs. They are perfect for short trips, long vacations, group tours, and even solo adventures.
For Indian travellers in 2025 and beyond, these destinations represent the smartest way to explore the world without overspending.
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