In the wake of the pandemic’s travel hiatus, short getaways are setting the trend for 2023. While luxurious ventures to the USA, Australia, or New Zealand might stretch your budget, especially with the currency challenges faced by Indian travellers, Asia offers a treasure trove of destinations that won’t burn a hole in your wallet.
Introducing 11 Asian gems you can explore from India, all wrapped within a neat budget of INR 1 lakh!
These destinations promise more than just affordable experiences; think scrumptious street food, efficient transportation options, eclectic hostels, and comfortable hotels to enhance your journey. The cherry on top? Several enriching experiences won’t cost you a dime! To make your planning seamless, we’ve also included handy details on the estimated cost of accommodations and the ideal duration of stay for each locale, ensuring your adventure remains within the INR 1 lakh mark.
1. Cambodia
🌴 Why Cambodia?
A common add-on to a Vietnam trip, Cambodia weaves a spell on visitors with its rich architectural marvels, unspoiled beaches, and tantalizing local cuisine.
Be it the tranquillity of the Thom and Tatai Waterfalls, the captivating history behind every brick of the ancient temples, or the inviting turquoise waters of Koh Rong Samloem Island and Kep, Cambodia captivates every kind of traveller. Dive into the local flavours with dishes like Khmer noodles, Amok, and Kari Sach Moan, easily found at bustling street stalls.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Preferably between November to May, when Cambodia flaunts its finest weather.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Historic: Siem Reap, Angkor, Landmine Museum
- Scenic: Kampot, Kep, Bamboo Island
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Your night’s rest ranges from INR 2,200 to INR 3,500.
- Fly: Round trips from India float around INR 46,000.
- Visa: Only USD 20, which translates to roughly INR 1,645.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: With INR 1 lakh in your pocket, you can luxuriate for 14 days in Cambodia, though a week is plenty to unearth its most precious treasures.
Zero Expense Adventures: Get the most out of Cambodia without reaching for your wallet:
- Reflect on history at the Independence Monument.
- Seek inner peace with meditation classes at Wat Langka.
- Marvel at the Friendship Monument’s European-Khmer design.
- Hunt for trinkets and treasures at night and central markets.
Cambodia’s potent mix of history, nature, and delightful gastronomy offers a perfect getaway for those on a budget, yet unwilling to compromise on the depth of their travel experience. Dive deep into this Southeast Asian gem!
2. Sri Lanka
🌴 Why Sri Lanka?
Nestled amidst turquoise waters, Sri Lanka is a haven for explorers. Especially for trekkers, it’s an enchanting labyrinth featuring gems such as Horton Plains National Park, Yala National Park, Sigiriya, and the Hanthana Mountain Range. The island nation’s rich hospitality is evident in its picturesque train routes like the Ella Odyssey – a voyage from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya.
For sun-seekers, Bentota and Mirissa beaches await. And if architecture is your passion, the Galle Fort promises an affordable historical dive. But, what’s travel without some local cuisine? Indulge in street delicacies: egg hopper, kottu roti, and a mix of spiced fruit chaat.
📅 Best Time to Drop By: Relish Sri Lanka’s beauty from December to April.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Historical: Galle Fort
- Coastal: Bentota, Mirissa
- Scenic: Nuwara Eliya, Ella
- Cultural: Kandy
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: INR 2,200 to INR 4,000 per night.
- Fly: An estimated INR 23,000 for a round trip. Bonus for Chennai residents? Opt for a ferry ride from Puducherry to Kankesanthurai in Jaffna, costing just LKR 21,000 (roughly INR 5,332).
- Visa: USD 25, translating to INR 2,057.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: While a 20-day retreat fits the budget, a 7-day sojourn will cover Sri Lanka’s prime attractions.
Zero Expense Adventures: Elevate your trip without spending extra!
- Trek: Little Adam’s Peak and its grander counterpart, Adam’s Peak.
- Shop & Stroll: Dive into the bustling Pettah Market or relax at Viharamahadevi Park.
- History Buff? The Independence Memorial Museum is a twilight treat.
With breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness, Sri Lanka offers an unparalleled experience for the budget traveller. Dive in!
3. Vietnam
🌴 Why Vietnam?
Rich in culture and dripping with natural beauty, Vietnam is a hot pick for Indian travelers, particularly for those flying budget with carriers like VietJet Air, Indigo, and Air Asia.
Whether you’re sunbathing at the beaches of My Khe and Cua Dai, tracing history at the My Son Sanctuary and Royal Tombs, spelunking in the Hang Son Doong caves, or navigating the energetic streets of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Da Nang, Vietnam promises a myriad of experiences.
Don’t leave without savoring the many noodle variations, banana blossom salad, stuffed pancakes, and of course, the renowned Banh Mi sandwich.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Plan between February to April or August to October. Note: February is the Lunar New Year – expect vibrant festivities but also a surge in tourists.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Historic: Cu Chi Tunnel, Temple of Literature, Vietnam Military History Museum
- Scenic: The Golden Bridge, The Marble Mountains, Cat Tien National Park
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Expect to pay between INR 2,200 to INR 4,000 per night.
- Fly: A round trip from India averages INR 25,000.
- Visa: USD 25, approximately INR 2,054.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: Your budget allows up to a 20-day retreat, but a compact 10-day trip will let you soak in Vietnam’s essence.
Zero Expense Adventures: Maximize your Vietnam experience without the extra cost!
- Revel in the Central Post Office’s colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Seek tranquility at the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral.
- Picnic at Tao Dan Park.
- Window shop (or splurge!) at Dong Khoi Street.
A trip to Vietnam, laden with its scenic beauty, historical richness, and culinary delights, promises an unparalleled experience for every budget-savvy traveler. Dive in and explore!
4. Thailand
🌴 Why Thailand?
Thailand, often called the ‘Land of Smiles’, serves up both opulence and affordability. Whether you’re navigating through the bustling lanes of Bangkok aboard a tuk-tuk, or breathing in the tranquil ocean air on the sands of Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui, there’s something for every wanderer.
Daybreaks at majestic spots like The Grand Palace and the temple of Wat Arun and nights echoing the lively beats from renowned clubs like Illuzion and Onyx—Thailand is a travel fantasy made real, even on a budget.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Escape to Thailand between November and April to experience it at its meteorological best.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Scenic: Chiang Rai, Khao Yai National Park, Phi Phi Islands
- Historic: Grand Palace, Wat Arun Temple
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: A cozy abode awaits from INR 2,500 to INR 4,500 per night.
- Fly: Savvy bookers can snag round-trip deals hovering around INR 25,000.
- Visa: A mere USD 32.58, which is roughly INR 2,680.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: The generous budget of INR 1 lakh promises 15 full days of Thai adventures, although a week to ten days suffices for the highlights.
Zero Expense Adventures: Unearth the many splendors of Thailand without spending a baht:
- Bargain and wander through Chatuchak Market.
- Soak in culture at Bangkok’s earliest public library and dance hall in Lumphini Park.
- Send your prayers skyward at the Golden Erawan Shrine.
- Find your inner peace with meditation at Wat Mahathat.
- Revel in the colorful spectacle of the Flower Market.
Thailand, with its juxtaposition of the old and the new, the tranquil and the spirited, promises an immersive experience that doesn’t burn a hole in the pocket. Pack your bags for an unforgettable Thai sojourn!
5. Singapore
🌆 Why Singapore?
Dive into the melting pot of cultures at the crossroads of Asia. Singapore is where the heritage of India, China, Malaysia, and the Arab world seamlessly blend. Wander down the insta-worthy Haji Lane, adorned with kaleidoscopic graffiti.
Instead of splurging at Clarke Quay’s fine-dine spots, let the hawker centers take your palate on a local tour. And for the budget-conscious? Pod hotels and hostels are a dream.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Singapore is ever-inviting. Yet, if you wish to steer clear of the showers, drop by in February, March, or April.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Garden Galore: Gardens by the Bay
- Heads in the Clouds: SkyPark Observation Deck
- Island Adventure: Sentosa Island
- Fantasy Land: Universal Studios
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Lay back at accommodations ranging from INR 4,500 to INR 7,000 per night.
- Fly: Return journeys average around INR 25,000.
- Visa: Shell out USD 60 or INR 4,938. Pro-tip for Indians: If you’re en route to countries like the US, UK, Canada, or Australia, tap into the visa-free transit facility (VFTF) to relish up to 96 hours in Singapore.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: 4-5 nights are apt for soaking in Singapore’s splendors but with a budget of INR 1 lakh, a 7-day stay is doable.
Zero Expense Adventures: Unfold the Lion City without lightening your pocket:
- Click a selfie with the city’s icon at Merlion Park.
- Revel in the architectural grandeur of the Sultan Mosque and Sri Mariamman Temple.
- Shop till you drop or just window-shop at ION Orchard.
- Wander into Singapore’s past with the spice gallery at Fort Canning Park Hill.
Singapore is where traditions meet tomorrow. And guess what? You don’t need to break the bank to experience it all. Ready to embark on your Lion City escapade?
6. Dubai
🌆 Why Dubai?
When the whispers of the Middle East beckon, Dubai stands tall, quite literally, thanks to the iconic Burj Khalifa! This jewel of the seven emirates dazzles with its luxury shopping arcades, avant-garde architecture, engineered islands, and electric nightlife.
Dive into the dunes on a quad bike, tantalize your taste buds with steamy shawarmas, or let loose at Wild Wadi Waterpark. As dusk descends, experience the Dubai Cruise: a blend of mystic belly dances and flavorsome Emirati dishes.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Evade the scorching sun by heading to Dubai between November and March.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Architectural Wonders: Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- For Thrill Seekers: Ferrari World, Desert Safari
- Relaxing Retreats: Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Eye
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Enjoy plush stays ranging from INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 per night.
- Fly: Return trips can be bagged at an average of INR 27,000.
- Visa: At USD 93 or roughly INR 7,654, you’re set. Bonus: Indians with valid visas or permits for the US, UK, or Europe can snag a 14-day visa on arrival for just AED 100 (INR 2,233).
🕒 Duration Recommendation: Although you could indulge in Dubai for 10 days with this budget, 5-6 nights will cover all the marvels the city offers.
Zero Expense Adventures: Live the Dubai dream, sans the spending:
- Dance with the rhythms of the Dubai Fountain.
- Bask under the sun at Kite Beach.
- Unearth treasures at the Dubai Gold Souk.
- Be a birder for a day at Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
In the heart of the desert lies a city of dreams, a testament to human ambition and luxury. Yet, Dubai can be as pocket-friendly as it is opulent. Ready for your Arabian adventure?
7. Philippines
🌅 Why The Philippines?
This archipelago is a treasure trove of experiences for those on a budget. Imagine ziplining over scenic landscapes, kayaking amidst blue waters, or just absorbing the serenity of beaches like El Nido and Coron Island.
And for the inquisitive traveler? The Marikina Shoe Museum in Manila promises an unusual dive into the history of shoemaking in the country.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Catch the perfect island vibe from November to February.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Beachy Dreams: Boracay
- A Dash of Everything: Cebu
- Metro Vibes: Manila
- Aqua Adventures: Coron Island
- Natural Wonder: Palawan Island
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Find cozy corners between INR 2,500 and INR 4,000 per night.
- Fly: Reserve your seat for an average of INR 32,000 for a return trip.
- Visa: Expect to pay USD 37 or INR 3,045. A quick heads up for Indian travelers: Carry a valid visa from the UK, US, Schengen, Canada, or Singapore, and you can waltz into the Philippines for a 14-day visa-free stint.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: Ideally, soak in the Philippine magic over a week to ten days. But on a budget? Stretch out to 17 days of pure island bliss.
Zero Expense Adventures:
- Ponder at the sprawling expanse of Rizal Park.
- Soak in the divine at the intricately designed San Agustin Church.
- Bargain and buy or simply window-shop at the bustling Divisoria Market.
The Philippines beckons with a call that’s hard to resist, especially when you can experience its many wonders without straining your purse. Ready to heed the call of its islands? 🏝️
8. Bhutan
🌄 Why Bhutan?
Dubbed the “Land of Happiness”, Bhutan promises a spiritual retreat, crowned with majestic monasteries, imposing fortresses, and panoramic mountain views. Traverse from lush plains to towering mountains, getting mesmerized by the intricacies of Bhutanese architecture and the serenity of its landscapes.
With the Indian Rupee at par with the Bhutanese ngultrum, Indians can indulge without the hassles of currency conversion.
📅 Best Time to Explore: Bhutan in full bloom? Head over between March and May.
📍 Must-Visit Spots:
- Spiritual Quest: Paro Taktsang, Buddha Dordenma Statue
- Nature’s Beauty: Bumthang Valley, Haa Valley
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Get a cozy corner between INR 3,000 and INR 5,000 per night.
- Fly: Direct flights can pinch your pocket. Instead, fly to Bagdogra for an average round trip cost of INR 15,000. From there, take a scenic drive to Bhutan.
- Visa: Cheers to Indian passport holders! You don’t need a visa to step into Bhutan.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: Your budget can stretch your Bhutanese escape to 15 days. But a 10-day stay captures the country’s essence, giving you ample time to soak in its beauty.
Zero Expense Adventures:
- Marvel at the grandeur of Punakha Dzong.
- Pay homage at the 108 memorial stupas adorning Dochula Pass.
- Unwind by the serene Paro River, perhaps with a delightful picnic.
With its pristine landscapes and spiritual aura, Bhutan offers a refuge from the mundane. It’s not just a journey across borders but also a journey within. Ready to embrace happiness? 🏯🌲🏞️
9. Nepal
🌄 Why Nepal?
Not just the mecca for trekkers dreaming of the Everest Base Camp, Nepal is a rich tapestry of cultural, spiritual, and natural attractions. From the spiritual serenity of Pashupatinath Temple to the heady beats at the world’s highest pub, the Irish Pub, Nepal promises surprises at every turn.
Plus, the stronger Indian currency against the Nepalese Rupee is an invitation for Indians to make the most of their vacation here.
📅 Best Time to Touchdown: Witness the best of Nepal in October, November, and December.
📍 Must-Visit Locales:
- Natural Beauty & Adventure: Pokhara
- Wildlife Wonders: Chitwan National Park
- Cultural Dive: Bhaktapur, Patan
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Cozy accommodations range between INR 2,500 and INR 3,500 per night.
- Fly: Hop on a plane for an average round trip cost of INR 14,000.
- Visa: Good news for Indian nationals! You can skip the visa queue altogether.
🕒 Duration Recommendation: The budget stretches up to 20 days for a comprehensive experience. However, a week suffices for a quick getaway, and 15 days are recommended for those looking to embark on treks like Annapurna or Everest Base Camp.
Zero Expense Adventures:
- Dive into the bustling vibe of the Thamel market.
- Seek spiritual solace at the Kapan Monastery.
- Reconnect with Buddhist teachings at the revered Namo Buddha Stupa.
Nepal stands as a testament to the wonders that can be discovered just beyond our borders. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a serenity seeker, this Himalayan nation promises a myriad of experiences to cherish. Ready to take the leap? 🏔️
10. Malaysia
🌏 Why Malaysia?
Blending the best of vibrant urban life and serene nature, Malaysia is a paradise for every traveler. From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers an eclectic mix.
With a culinary scene richly influenced by China, India, and Indonesia, it’s a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re strolling in markets, gazing at the iconic Petronas Towers, or treating your taste buds to Laksa, every moment here is sure to be memorable.
📅 Best Time to Explore: Relish Malaysia’s charm between December and April.
📍 Must-Visit Spots:
- Urban Delights: Petronas Towers, Thean Hou Temple, Batu Caves
- Nature and Adventure: Genting’s SkyWorlds theme park, Langkawi beaches
- Culinary Expeditions: Bukit Bintang, renowned for its street food
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: A comfy night’s sleep ranges between INR 2,000 and INR 4,000.
- Fly: Average round trip airfare stands at INR 25,000.
- Visa: Avail an e-visa for just USD 11 (INR 930). Layover? Transit without a visa for up to 120 hours!
🕒 Duration Recommendation: With your budget, you can stay in Malaysia for an impressive 18 days. However, a 10-day trip gives you a thorough taste of this diverse nation.
Zero Expense Adventures:
- Find serenity at the majestic Kek Lok Si Temple.
- Revel in the beauty of Perdana Botanical Garden’s hibiscus and orchid blooms.
- Soak up the historic ambiance at Merdeka Square, boasting the world’s tallest flagpole.
Malaysia truly encapsulates the essence of Asia – diverse, flavorful, and utterly captivating. Dive into its wonders, and let Malaysia leave an indelible mark on your heart. 🏙️🌴🍲
11. Laos
🌏 Why Laos?
Step into the land of a million elephants and dive into the serenity and untouched beauty of Laos. Tucked away in Southeast Asia, Laos brims with cascading waterfalls, centuries-old temples, and timeless traditions.
From the bustling night markets by the Mekong River to the contemplative quietude of its Buddhist monasteries, Laos offers a respite from the rapid pace of the modern world.
📅 Best Time to Explore: Embrace Laos’ tranquility from October to April.
📍 Must-Visit Spots:
- Natural Marvels: Kuang Si Waterfall, is a multi-tiered cascade of pure beauty.
- Cultural Immersion: Patuxay, Wat Sisaket, and Wat Xieng Thong Temple.
- Historical Landmarks: Buddha Park, a tribute to spirituality housing over 200 statues.
💰 Your Budget Guide:
- Stay: Enjoy a restful night between INR 1,500 and INR 3,000.
- Fly: An average round trip will set you back at approximately INR 47,000.
- Visa: Get your entry for a mere USD 52 (INR 4,262).
🕒 Duration Recommendation: Given your budget, you can immerse yourself in Laos for a good 14 days. However, a week is ample to uncover its treasures.
Zero Expense Adventures:
- Unravel history at the National History Museum, exhibiting pottery shards, Khmer sculptures, and more.
- Indulge in local flavours at the Night Market or cast a line in its nearby waters.
- Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic routes alongside the Mekong River, or witness the daily life of the floating markets.
With a pace that harks back to a simpler time and landscapes untouched by the digital age, Laos offers a sanctuary to those looking for a genuine and unfiltered Asian experience. Traverse its lanes, and let Laos enchant you with its silent tales. 🏞️🌅🍜
12. Myanmar (Burma)
🌏 Why Myanmar?
Step into Myanmar, a land of golden pagodas, mist-covered mountains, and traditions deeply rooted in its past. Experience the spiritual tranquility of Bagan with its sea of ancient temples, or the bustling street markets of Yangon. Myanmar offers a glimpse into an Asia that remains relatively untouched by modern influences.
📅 Best Time to Explore: Delve into Myanmar’s beauty between November and February.
📍 Must-Visit Spots:
Natural Marvels: Inle Lake, with its floating gardens and stilt-house villages. Cultural Immersion: The ancient temples of Bagan and the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. Historical Landmarks: Mandalay Palace, reflects the last royal capital of the last Burmese monarchy.
💰 Your Budget Guide:
Stay: Comfortable accommodation ranges between INR 2,000 and INR 4,500 per night. Fly: A round trip could cost approximately INR 35,000 on average. Visa: Tourist eVisa for Indians costs around USD 50 (INR 4,100).
🕒 Duration Recommendation: With a modest budget, one can immerse themselves in Myanmar for about 12 days. However, 8 days can give you a comprehensive experience of its main attractions.
Zero Expense Adventures:
Explore Yangon’s colonial architecture on foot, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Engage with the locals at bustling street markets and learn about their daily life. Venture into the many free-to-access pagodas and monasteries scattered across the country, understanding Myanmar’s rich spiritual heritage. With a blend of unique cultural experiences and mesmerizing natural landscapes, Myanmar is a gem in Southeast Asia that offers a genuine and rich travel experience. Traverse its lands, and let the Golden Land enchant you with its timeless charm. 🏞️🕌🌄
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