Cost of Traveling to India: A Complete Guide
Are you thinking about exploring the vibrant and diverse landscapes of India? This enchanting country is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine, but what might surprise you is how budget-friendly it can be. If you're considering a backpacking adventure, let’s dive into the costs associated with traveling to India and help you prepare for an unforgettable journey.
Traveling in India as a backpacker can be incredibly affordable. After spending nearly four months traversing this mesmerizing land, we can confidently say that it was one of the cheapest trips we’ve ever taken. But the question remains: how much does it really cost to travel to India as a backpacker?
Daily Expenses on Your Indian Adventure
During our travels, we managed to maintain an average daily budget of about €6.24 per person (based on an exchange rate of €1 = 84 INR). Here's a concise breakdown of our daily expenses:
Food Costs
We spent around €2.94 per person each day on food. Dining primarily at budget hostels or local eateries can help keep your costs low. To save even more:
- Try street food options – they offer delicious snacks like samosas and pakoras at a fraction of the cost.
- Opt for vegetarian meals, as meat dishes tend to be pricier.
- Consider local diners where prices are lower than tourist spots.
Accommodation
Our accommodation cost was effectively €0, thanks to opportunities provided by our blog. We utilized Couchsurfing and only stayed in paid hostels a couple of times. In Amritsar, we paid 500 INR for a double room, while in Chittorgarh, it was 350 INR. Generally, you can find:
- Double rooms with a fan and private bathroom for around 300-500 INR (€4-6).
- Hostels and guesthouses that offer dormitory beds for even less.
Transportation Costs
On transportation, we spent approximately €1.63 daily. We relied heavily on trains (Sleeper Class) and public buses, which were both economical and efficient. Here’s what you can expect:
- A 10-12 hour train ride in Sleeper Class costs about 250-300 INR.
- Local bus rides for around 75 INR for a 3-hour journey.
- Tuk-tuks start at 12-15 INR for the base fare plus 8-10 INR per kilometer.
Entry Fees
Entry fees to various attractions averaged around €1.20 per day. While visiting historical sites can add up, many attractions are quite affordable. For instance:
- The most expensive ticket is for the Taj Mahal at 1000 INR.
- Entry fees for most palaces and forts range between 100-200 INR.
Miscellaneous Expenses
We allocated about €0.47 daily for miscellaneous expenses, which included personal items like toiletries. Your spending here can vary depending on your shopping habits:
- Essentials like soap and shampoo are very affordable.
- If you tend to buy souvenirs, budget a bit more.
Key Prices to Keep in Mind
It’s beneficial to have an idea of typical costs when budgeting for your trip. Here’s a quick reference list of common prices in India:
- Thali meal: 40-80 INR
- Meat dish: 130-200 INR
- Vegetarian dish: 50-100 INR
- Rice: 30-50 INR
- Flatbread (Naan): 15-20 INR
- Bottle of water: 10-20 INR
- Samosa: 10 INR
Cost of Traveling to India from Different Countries
Traveling costs can vary depending on where you are coming from. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:
Traveling to India from Spain
Flights from Spain can range widely in price, depending on the season and how far in advance you book. On average, expect to pay between €400 to €600 for a round-trip ticket.
Traveling to India from Mexico
For travelers from Mexico, round-trip flights typically cost between 14,000 to 20,000 pesos, again influenced by seasonal demand and booking time.
Traveling to India from Colombia
If you're flying from Colombia, expect to pay around 3,000,000 to 4,500,000 COP for a round-trip ticket depending on the airline and season.
Traveling to India from Argentina
Flights from Argentina can be quite expensive, ranging from 100,000 to 160,000 ARS, influenced by the same factors.
Booking Flights and Packages
There are a variety of travel agencies and online platforms that can help you find the best deals on flights and packages. Consider looking into:
- Travel agencies like Falabella or Masai Travel, which often provide all-inclusive deals.
- Online platforms that specialize in budget travel.
For an in-depth look at costs and planning, check out this video that offers insights into traveling to India in 2023:
How to Prepare for Your Trip
Being prepared can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to get you ready:
- Research the best time to visit – India has diverse climates, and some months are preferable for traveling.
- Get necessary vaccinations well in advance.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Hindi to enhance your interactions with locals.
So, if you ever wondered how much does it cost to travel to India, the answer is straightforward: it's affordable! With careful planning and budgeting, an extraordinary adventure awaits you in this vibrant country. Whether you're savoring delicious street food, exploring ancient forts, or meeting warm locals, India offers an experience that is truly priceless.
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