PRO Tips to Travel Cheap in India

Traveling in India can be an affordable and enriching experience if planned carefully. Here are some pro tips to help you save money while exploring the diverse and beautiful country:

  1.   Travel Off-Season  

   - Avoid peak tourist seasons, typically during festivals, school holidays, and the cooler winter months. Traveling during the shoulder or off-season can help you find cheaper accommodation, flights, and reduced crowds at tourist destinations.

  2.   Use Local Transport  

   -   Trains  : India has an extensive railway network, and train travel is often cheaper than flights or private cars. Opt for sleeper class or AC 3-tier for long-distance travel.

   -   Buses  : Local and state buses are affordable and connect almost every city and town.

   -   Auto-rickshaws & Ride-Sharing  : Always negotiate rates with auto-rickshaw drivers or use apps like   Ola   and   Uber   for fair prices in urban areas.

   -   Metro  : In cities like Delhi and Mumbai, the metro is a cheap and reliable way to travel.

  3.   Budget Accommodations  

   -   Hostels & Guesthouses  : India has a wide range of budget hostels, guesthouses, and homestays, which are much cheaper than hotels. Apps like   Booking.com   or   Hostelworld   are great for finding affordable stays.

   -   Dormitories at Temples  : Some temples and monasteries offer clean and safe accommodation for a nominal fee or even free of charge.

  4.   Eat Local Food  

   - Street food is not only affordable but also delicious and authentic. Go where the locals eat to get the best quality.

   -   Thali  : A traditional Indian meal, typically served on a large plate with multiple dishes, is a great way to enjoy a variety of flavors at a low cost.

   - Avoid fancy restaurants; instead, look for small, local eateries known as "dhaba" (especially on highways).

  5.   Book Tickets in Advance  

   -   Trains  : Booking train tickets early on the Indian Railways website or apps like   IRCTC   helps you secure cheaper fares.

   -   Flights  : Keep an eye on budget airlines like   IndiGo  ,   SpiceJet  , and   GoAir  . Prices are lower if you book several weeks in advance.

  6.   Use City Passes  

   - Many major cities offer   tourist cards   or   city passes   that give you discounts on attractions, public transport, and sometimes even restaurants. Examples include the   Delhi Metro Tourist Card   or   Mumbai Unlimited Travel Pass  .

  7.   Bargain Smartly  

   - In markets and tourist spots, haggling is expected. Politely negotiate prices with shopkeepers for better deals, especially when buying souvenirs or local handicrafts.

  8.   Stay Connected with Local SIMs  

   - Instead of relying on international roaming, buy a local SIM card (Airtel, Jio, or Vodafone). Mobile data is cheap in India, and having a SIM with internet access helps you use apps for directions, transport, and food ordering.

  9.   Free Entry Days at Attractions  

   - Some museums and monuments offer free or discounted entry on certain days of the week or during national holidays. For example, many monuments have no entry fee on   World Heritage Day   or   Independence Day  .

  10.   Volunteer or Work Exchange  

   - Some organizations and hostels offer free accommodation and meals in exchange for volunteering or helping with tasks like teaching, farming, or housekeeping. Websites like   Workaway   or   WWOOF India   can help you find these opportunities.

  11.   Group Travel & Shared Expenses  

   - Traveling with a group allows you to share accommodation and transportation costs, making the trip more economical. If you're a solo traveler, look for opportunities to join group tours or meet other travelers.

  12.   Avoid Tourist Traps  

   - Well-known tourist spots can be overpriced. Instead, explore lesser-known destinations that offer similar experiences without the tourist markup. You’ll get a more authentic experience at a lower cost.

  13.   Prepaid Services for Taxis  

   - Use prepaid taxi counters at airports and train stations to avoid being overcharged by drivers. This ensures you pay a fair, fixed rate.

  14.   Use Credit/Debit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees  

   - If you’re an international traveler, ensure your card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees to avoid extra costs. Also, use ATMs to withdraw money in local currency (INR) as cash is widely used in smaller towns and markets.

15. Last Tip is to make a local friend and take some advice from them 

By following these tips, you can explore India on a budget while still enjoying its rich culture, history, and cuisine!