7 Budget Indian Destinations You Must Visit Now

Originally published at lmt-lss.com on October 5, 2015.

How often do you wish to let yourself be wowed with the mystic beauty of the mountains or the lush green magnificence of forests? Very often, I’m sure. That’s certain, of all things in this world, travelling is one thing in the world that gives us innate sense of pleasure and happiness. After all, we are humans, we have limbs and we are born to travel and not sit at one place! However, given the fact that many of us live on a strict budget with no scope of burning a hole in the pocket, simply because the pocket just isn’t that big, anyway, we often tend to give-up on our travelling dreams. Not anymore, here’s bringing you the top 7 tourist destinations in India that will fulfill the inner travel-frenzy traveler in you and give you the much-needed break from the hustle-bustle of routine life. Welcome aboard!

1. Goa

Thought that gorgeous beaches, sea, sun and sand came at a price, you just cannot afford? Then, think again because Goa is the ultimate sea-lover’s paradise and voila, it’s pretty cheap, as well. Right from the food and accommodation to the sight-seeing expenditure and drinks, everything is way below your expected travel math.

2. Jaipur

The lovely Pink City offers an easy and cheap getaway. There’s plenty to do and see here, so just take a look around the splendid forts and architecture and go on your way to wherever your final destination is.

3. Ooty

Tall trees; hot piping coffee; chocolate, more of chocolate; Ooty is the home to all things divine. One cannot help, but fall in love with this lovely place. The hills are lovely, there’s the Fernhills palace to explore and Kodi’s just a few stops away; and guess what, all this comes at an incredibly low price!

4. Itanagar

It’s so true — East India is India’s Unexplored Paradise — Itanagar is one such place that exemplifies it so well! The city offers you all the peace of mind the North East is famous for. There’s gushing rivers and lush greens, all the while helped out by the forthcoming locals who will sort you out with homestays and warm food for nominal pricing.

5. Dharamsala

Situated in the picturesque Kangra valley and set against the Dhauladhar mountain range in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala is an ideal retreat for nature lovers. Apart from the breath-taking natural beauty and scenic views of the mountains, Dharamsala is also popular with adventure lovers and para-gliders. A room in a budget hotel could cost as low as around Rs 200 per day.

6. Darjeeling

Great climate, warm people and wonderful chai, more chair, still more chai, Darjeeling is bound to touch you with everything you’d appreciate as a traveler and that too, on a budget travel.

7. Amritsar

The home to ardaas and holy chimes, Amritsar is not just the destination for the pious, it is also the paradise to excited travelers who wish to explore great places and die-hard food-lovers. Spend days at Golden Temple for free, have lip-smacking yet free food at langars and have a memorable time at this amazing city!