Who says international travel has to be costly? With shorter flight routes, affordable airlines, and relaxed visa rules, stepping outside India can be just as budget-friendly as a domestic getaway. In fact, some of the most rewarding travel experiences are just a few hours away—and often cheaper than you’d expect.
From misty mountains and ancient temples to tropical beaches and colourful street markets, these destinations offer maximum value for Indian travellers who want to explore more while spending less.
Here are 5 of the cheapest countries Indians can travel to right now, without stretching the budget.
1) 🇳🇵 Nepal (No Passport? Still Possible!)
Nepal is easily one of the most budget-friendly international destinations for Indians. What makes it even better is how simple it is to enter—Indians don’t need a visa, and in many cases, you can travel without the stress of heavy paperwork.
Whether you’re heading to Kathmandu’s buzzing lanes or relaxing by Pokhara’s lakeside views, Nepal keeps costs low throughout the trip.
Why Nepal is great for budget travel:
- No visa requirements for Indians
- Affordable guesthouses and homestays
- Local meals like dal bhat are filling and cheap
- Easy transport within cities and between towns
âś… Best for: Mountains, temples, backpacking, peaceful stays
2) 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka (Beaches + Hills on a Budget)
Sri Lanka is one of those places that gives you a lot for surprisingly little. A short flight from India can land you in a country packed with beaches, wildlife, heritage towns, and scenic hill routes.
Budget travellers can save big by choosing homestays, taking local trains, and enjoying delicious rice-and-curry meals without worrying about costs.
What makes Sri Lanka affordable:
- Cheap local transport (especially trains)
- Great-value stays and homestays
- Inexpensive food and local cafés
- Multiple experiences in one trip: coast, hills, culture
âś… Best for: Beach vibes, tea estates, history, scenic train rides
3) 🇹🇠Thailand (Street Food Heaven + Easy Travel)
Thailand remains one of the top favourites for Indian travellers—and for good reason. It’s vibrant, easy to explore, and packed with budget-friendly choices even in popular tourist areas.
With frequent flight deals and smooth entry options (including visa-free short stays, along with a required digital arrival process), Thailand is often the perfect first international trip.
Why Thailand works on a tight budget:
- Cheap and tasty street food everywhere
- Budget hotels available in most tourist hotspots
- Affordable public transport and intercity travel
- Plenty to do without spending big
âś… Best for: Bangkok city life, islands, shopping, nightlife, temples
4) 🇻🇳 Vietnam (Big Experiences, Small Budget)
Vietnam feels like a destination made for budget travellers. From stunning landscapes to unforgettable street food, it offers premium travel vibes without premium prices.
Flights from India are becoming more common, the e-visa process is simple, and once you arrive, you’ll notice how far your money can stretch.
Why Vietnam is great value:
- Affordable hotels across cities
- Delicious, cheap street food
- Budget-friendly travel between places
- Culture + nature packed into one trip
âś… Best for: Food lovers, city hopping, scenic views, budget-friendly luxury
5) 🇧🇹 Bhutan (Peaceful, Close, and Surprisingly Affordable)
Bhutan may sound like a luxury destination—but for Indians, it can actually be a smart budget trip. With no visa requirement and road access from eastern India, travel costs stay manageable.
Bhutan is less about expensive attractions and more about slow travel—monasteries, mountain scenery, quiet towns, and calm experiences.
Why Bhutan can be a budget-friendly option:
- No visa needed for Indians
- Road routes help reduce flight costs
- Budget hotels available in key towns
- Many scenic experiences cost little or nothing
âś… Best for: Nature, calm travel, monasteries, unique culture
âś… Final Thoughts
International travel doesn’t have to mean expensive hotels and big budgets. Countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Bhutan offer everything from adventure to relaxation—without making your wallet suffer.
