India is a nation where diversity thrives, not just in culture but also in many other ways. A travel to India reflects this diversity. That is, you can travel to India both on a luxurious budget and as well as on a shoestring budget. Whatever your budget is, you will be easily able to travel within India as there is something or the other for every traveller in the country.
At the same time, it is up to you as to how you manage your money and spend wisely as there will be tempting occasions to splurge. The key is to be in control and be wise. Here are 5 important points to follow for a budget tour to India:
- Off-Season Travel
In every country, there is a season or a period when travellers visit it the most depending on the season or festivals and so on. India is a country where there is diversity not in people and places but also in climate. So, choose the off-season to travel to India and you will be able to save a lot of money. During this time, you will also get to stay in a good hotel but for lesser money. Another advantage is that you get to visit places without having to encounter crowd and rush.
- Visit Lesser Known Places
A vast country as India has lot to offer in each corner. There are many places in India which are not that well-known but are equally beautiful. Do your research, ask your Indian friends about places that are not very famous but are tourist destinations. You will get good but cheap accommodation facilities in such places and the food also will be affordable. Another benefit is that you will get to experience local culture and cuisine, which offer an altogether different experience. These places may not have great amenities but will definitely provide you all the thrill and joy that one experiences on exotic travel destinations.
- Wise Shopping and Select Eating
When you have shoestring budget, it doesn’t mean you can’t shop. India has a lot of exotic and indigenous items to offer. You can shop even while you are on a budget travel but avoid shopping at main stores or malls. Go shopping at places that lie little far from main tourist destinations. You will get a good deal at such places. Also, India is famous for its street food. Though you will have to look for clean places to eat, there are also small restaurants that offer affordable meals. Just check if the place is hygienic.
- Flexibility Is a Must
When you are on a budget trip, flexibility is necessary. That means you travel when the ticket prices are low or the airline or the hotel offers an instant discount. There are two ways to get cheaper air tickets, one, book well in advance or book at the last minute. Many a times, airlines have few vacant seats which they wish to give away at a discounted price on either the day of the flight or couple of days before. Look for such seat availability and book your tickets and plan a sudden trip to India. Of course, you have to take care of your passport and visa requirements as well during the time that you have. Also, during week days, flight tickets tend to be cheaper than during weekends.
- Night Travel
Ditching a sleep at night for travel can offer many benefits. First, late night flights tend to be cheaper than day flights. Second, when you travel during night and reach India in the morning, you are saving a night’s stay and thus you are able to save money. Try not to reach at mid night and when you reach the hotel early morning, check how the hotels charge. If they have a specific time for check-in to consider the day, then wait. Sometimes, an hour here and there can make a huge difference.
Also, remember, just because you are travelling on a budget doesn’t mean you have less fun. All the more, you will get to enjoy the trip more as you get to experience things which don’t come with money. That is why it is said, best things in life are free. So, enjoy your budget trip to India and return home richer in experience, fun and of course savings as well!
