India is a large and diverse country known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. To help plan your trip within your budget, our travel cost guide has everything you need for your journey. With tips and prices for hotels, food, activities, and transit, you can enjoy every moment without worrying about your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to India?
You should plan to spend around $46 (₨3,858) per day on your vacation in India. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $17 (₨1,435) on meals
- $6.55 (₨553) on local transportation
- $34 (₨2,861) on hotels
A one week trip to India for two people costs, on average, $640 (₨54,012). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$320
₨27,006
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$640
₨54,012
-
One Month
Per person
$1,372
₨115,740
-
One Week
For a couple
$640
₨54,012
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$1,280
₨108,024
-
One Month
For a couple
$2,743
₨231,480
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to India cost?
A one week trip to India usually costs around $320 (₨27,006) for one person and $640 (₨54,012) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to India on average costs around $640 (₨54,012) for one person and $1,280 (₨108,024) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in India will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to India on average costs around $1,372 (₨115,740) for one person and $2,743 (₨231,480) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is India expensive to visit?
India is a very affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 10% of countries in the world for its affordability. Many budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring this country in depth.
Within Asia, India is reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Asia for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Uzbekistan, but there are also more expensive countries, such as Maldives.
India boasts a wide variety of attractions and accommodations, catering to visitors with different budgets and travel styles. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate hostels in Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur, but there are also luxurious hotel options, plus mid-range stays perfect for families or couples.
Sure, India can cost a lot, but with smart choices like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities, you can stretch your budget further.
On average, budget travelers spend $17 (₨1,455) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $46 (₨3,858) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $128 (₨10,775) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to India.
For more details, see Is India Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to India?
The average India trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these India travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to India cost?
India on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$6.50
(₨549)
|
$17
(₨1,430)
|
$46
(₨3,855)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$2.38
(₨200)
|
$6.55
(₨553)
|
$20
(₨1,662)
|
|
Food 2
|
$6.58
(₨556)
|
$17
(₨1,435)
|
$45
(₨3,793)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$3.81
(₨321)
|
$10
(₨862)
|
$29
(₨2,463)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$1-4
(₨113-339)
|
$4-11
(₨298-894)
|
$10-29
(₨823-2,470)
|
The view of the Taj Mahal from Agra Fort, Agra, India
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to have a grounded and realistic perspective on your budget. While many believe they can travel as "budget" travelers on a mere $17 a day like a backpacker, the reality is that most people struggle to enjoy that style of travel. Consider what makes you happy and how you've traveled before. Do you prefer the comfort of resorts, the convenience of vacation rentals, or the simple camaraderie of hostels? Is dining out a top priority for you? Do you plan to visit the major attractions? Your answers to these questions will certainly impact your overall travel budget.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Many people might hear that you can explore India for just $17 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.
Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.
Fortunately, India has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling as a couple or family, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular restaurants, and visit major museums and attractions that require entry fees. You'll want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do come with a price tag. With that in mind, you should realistically plan for a daily budget of about $46 per person.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in India. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Srinagar, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Srinagar, Ikraam Inn Bed & Breakfast is a good kid-friendly option, and in Jaisalmer, Killa Bhawan is also terrific. Couples traveling to Mashobra should definitely consider the romantic vibe of Mahasu House. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for India here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
For a trip filled with top-notch service and every possible comfort, expect your budget to reach around $128 per day, per person. Staying in high-end accommodations, enjoying gourmet meals, going on lavish adventures, and hiring personal drivers comes with a luxury price tag. You'll be in the company of the wealthy in locations like Amritsar and Mumbai. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as India's Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges - offered by Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection.
Accommodation Budget in India
India has a wide range of accommodation prices, and it can be surprising how much prices fluctuate. Budget hotels can often be much cheaper than higher-end places, and during peak season, everything costs much more. For a better deal, try visiting in the low season, and book early to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in India for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $34 (₨2,861). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $17 (₨1,430) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in India? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in India
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $6.55 (₨553) per person, per day, on local transportation in India. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in India is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$6.55
₨553
The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in India, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.
-
Uber Cab
₨80
-
Auto-rickshaw
₨100
-
Delhi Metro Smart Card
₨150
-
Tuk Tuk Ride
₨10
-
Tuk Tuk Ride
₨20
-
Tuk Tuk Ride
₨30
-
Subway
₨32
-
Tuk Tuk Ride
₨40
Food Budget in India
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in India can vary significantly, the average cost of food in India is $17 (₨1,435) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$17
₨1,435
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in India is about $17 (₨1435) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $7 to $45 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in India are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $5
- Lunch: $3 to $9
- Dinner: $6 to $14
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $3
Indian food is rich and flavor. Rice is a staple and most meals come with a side of naan bread. While traditional Indian food is quite spicy, in touristy areas its easy to get a meal that is quite mild. If you want it spicy, you may even have to insist on it that way as waiters are used to foreigners requesting their meals with "no spice."
Dal Makhani: This popular vegetarian dish of slow cooked lentils is richly seasoned and cooked like a stew. It's usually served with a side of rice and vegetables or salad.
Tandoori Chicken: This is one of the most famous Indian dishes and is a heavily seasoned and roasted chicken dish (recipe here). It is bright in color mainly because of the turmeric and cayenne pepper and is slow cooked in a tandoori oven. It is typically prepared spicy, but some places have it available in a mild flavor as well if you request it.
Chungdi Jhola: This is a saucy, prawn curry dish that is heavily spiced and rich in flavor. It's popular in the coastal cities, particularly in the south and is a favorite with many locals.
Traveling with kids? Check for restaurants that offer a childrens menu. It's a smart way to save money, as these meals are often more reasonably priced. And remember, some eateries don't advertise their kids' options, so asking the waiter is a good idea.
Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, but some charge extra for this service. Prices and quality can vary based on the hotel. Being informed in advance can help you decide whether to indulge in a lavish hotel buffet or simply visit a nearby bakery or café that may offer cheaper options.
Choose to carry a water bottle instead of constantly purchasing drinks. It's a win for both your wallet and the environment.
When arranging for a tour, be sure to confirm which meals are included ahead of time. There may be some meals you'll need to pay for yourself, which could add to your overall costs.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in India, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Alleyway Food Tour for $55 details
- Private Guided Cooking Workshop Experience in Jodhphur for $44 details
- Old Delhi Food Tour Safari - The Capital of Flavors for $8 details
- Cooking class and dinner with Rekha family with full meals for $9 details
Typical prices for food in India are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in India. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
-
McDonalds
₨293
-
Soda
₨10
-
Juice
₨25
-
Breakfast for Two
₨180
-
Lunch
₨200
-
Dinner In Town
₨345
-
Dinner
₨400
-
Dinner
₨550
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in India
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in India typically cost an average of $10 (₨862) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$10
₨862
A nice way to explore destinations in India is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Magic Hour Tour for $55 details
- Same day Private tour cab pickup from Delhi Agra for $60 details
- Private Jaipur City Tour from Delhi by Car for $69 details
- Same Day tour from delhi Agra private cab for $48 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in India, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
Nightlife Budget in India
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $7.07 (₨596) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in India per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$7.07
₨596
Hitting the town is a blast, but easing up on drinks can have a positive impact on your budget.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in India. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Discover the religious city: Nashik with wine tasting tour for $65 details
- Pub crawl Bangalore tours for $50 details
- Orange Package: Distillery Tour Only for $7 details
- South Bombay Pub Crawl for $39 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Jul 17, 2024
Traveling in India
Mumbai, India
India is one of the world's most affordable and impressive destinations. It is a country of extremes. From its vibrant colors, rich scents, and strong flavors, to its strong spirituality and welcoming people, India truly has something for everyone. It's a country where poverty sits next to wealth, beauty is intertwined with filth, and structure is found amidst chaos. It has cities, like Varanasi, where religion and spirituality touch its very essence. It has natural beauty that is unsurpassed elsewhere but it also has a growing economy that is becoming an influential force in the world. The eager friendliness of the people is endearing, and the food is unforgettable.
India's vast size as well as its dramatic diversity from south to north and east to west, make it a country easiest visited over the course of several trips. It can be challenging to see the entire country, even with many weeks to explore. In the north you'll find the culturally and historically rich areas of Delhi, Varanasi, Rajasthan, and Agra (with the Taj Mahal). In the south you'll find the more rural and absolutely beautiful areas, with a more laid back feel and some of the country's best food. Wherever you go, it truly is Incredible India!
Travel costs in India are some of the lowest in the world. Budget travelers flock here because they can stretch there money in unexpected ways. Cheap hotels can cost as little as a few dollars in some places and filling meals can be purchased for equally as cheap. The best way to ensure you get a good deal is to negotiate hard, and rarely make reservations. Unless you're traveling during a peak time period when hotels and transportation fill up, you likely don't need advanced reservations. The one exception to this is the trains. Some train trips should be booked weeks in advance, while others can be booked the day before. It's almost always possible to show up in a town without reservations and you can get a good deal. For comfort and peace of mind, reservations in larger cities such as Mumbai or Delhi are recommended.
At A Glance
- India is a large country with both rural and urban areas. If you're spending an extended amount of time in the country you'll probably be surprised to find that prices are actually cheaper in many cities than they are in rural areas. This is in large part because of the limited competition that exists in the more remote areas. There are few hotels and restaurants when you're well out of town, so you can expect to pay a little more. Prices are still incredibly low though, so wherever you go in India, you're likely to get a good deal.
- The Indian population is incredibly welcoming. Prior to visiting India you'll probably hear many stories about the scams and ripoffs that can happen. While these do exist, do not let them intimidate you. The vast majority of the population will go out of their way to make you feel welcome. Strangers will help you negotiate a rickshaw and families will invite you into their home.
- Restaurants in large cities are often well overstaffed. Particularly at the higher end restaurants, don't be surprised to find a herd of people waiting on you. They'll stand attentively by while you read over the menu or enjoy your meal. It can be a little intrusive at first, but don't let it get to you. They are just hoping to make your experience as enjoyable as possible, and happy to be employed.
- It's easy to find budget accommodation in India for little more than a few bucks. If you want comfort and style, you don't have to spend much more to stay at a very nice and modern place. This is true in most cities around the country. If the place seems empty you can probably talk the price down even further as well, so do not hesitate to negotiate. If you just show up at a hotel or guesthouse, make sure you check out the room, bed, and bathroom before committing to a price.
- Transportation around India can often be difficult, especially for long distances. Several popular options are available, including flights, buses, trains, and hiring a car. If you want to hire a driver and a car, it's possible to do so at a reasonable rate for multiple days. Buses are a good option for shorter distances between cities. Trains are one of the most economical ways to get around, especially for long distances. Overnight trains can be a good way to get somewhere in relative comfort on a budget. Otherwise, airline tickets can sometimes be cheap, but sometimes be expensive depending on the route, airline, and dates.
- You're likely to encounter touts in most major tourist destinations around India. They will want to show you to a hotel or help you with a taxi. You will likely pay a large commission for these services so it is best to go it alone. It is not hard to find hotels and negotiate your own price. If possible, avoid the touts.
Related
Visa Information: Obtaining an Indian Visa is not hard, but can require a bit of paperwork and patience, especially for visitors from certain nationalities. Read this terrific
guide to the Indian Visa application process for tourists for more information.
Looking for a hostel in Delhi or Goa? Heading to Kathmandu or want a party in Tel Aviv?
Top Tourist Attractions
Taj Mahal: Perhaps the most iconic sight in India, this beautiful symbol of love is a must see for any trip to India. It's located in the city of Agra, which is reachable by train from Delhi. It's probably the most photographed and famous attraction in all of India.
Kerala: Located in the southern part of India, Kerala is a beautiful land that is great for wildlife and health based holidays. It's a spiritual area and not to be missed on any trip into this region of India.
Varanasi: Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, this strongly religious city offers you a little insight into the festivals of the Hindu religion. It's one of the most religious cities in the country and is rich with colors, flavors, and sounds.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.