India Travel Costs 2025: Is Budget Travel Still Possible?

When you think of India is a vast South Asian country that offers everything from snow‑capped Himalayas to sun‑kissed beaches, making it a perennial favorite for travelers. the question on many forums today is: budget travel India still a reality in 2025?

Why the Cost Question Matters Now

Inflation, shifting airline routes, and a stronger Indian rupee have all nudged prices upward since the pandemic‑era lows. Yet, India’s price‑performance ratio-what you get for each dollar-still outshines many neighboring destinations. If you can dodge the peak‑season hype and smart‑shop, a 10‑day backpacking trek can still sit comfortably under $800.

Key Cost Drivers in 2025

• Flights: International round‑trip fares from Australia to major Indian gateways (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore) now average AUD 1,200-1,400, about 8% higher than 2022. Booking 3‑4 months ahead and using price‑alert tools can shave $150‑$200.
• Accommodation: Hostels and budget hotels dominate the cheap‑traveler market. In Goa, a dorm bed costs $6‑$9 per night, while in Kerala’s backwaters you’ll find family‑run homestays at $8‑$12.
• Food: Street‑food staples like pani puri, dosa, and vada pav hover around $1‑$2 per plate. A daily food budget of $10‑$15 keeps you well fed without splurging on touristy restaurants.
• Local transport: Trains remain the backbone of long‑distance travel. A second‑class AC ticket from Delhi to Jaipur costs $12‑$15. Within cities, auto‑rickshaws and app‑based cabs average $0.30 per kilometre.
• Visa & fees: The e‑tourist visa for Australian citizens is $100 for a 30‑day stay and $150 for 90 days, payable online. No hidden agency fees if you apply directly on the Indian government portal.

Cheap Beach Destinations Still Worth a Visit

India’s coastline stretches over 7,500 km, offering a mix of party‑centric shores and tranquil retreats. Below are three beaches that keep the budget traveler happy.

Goa is a former Portuguese enclave famous for its laid‑back vibe, vibrant nightlife, and inexpensive beachfront huts. During the shoulder months (October‑November, February‑March) you can snag a beachfront dorm for $7, ride a rented scooter for $4/day, and enjoy fresh seafood at local shacks for $3‑$5 per serving.

Kerala offers a quieter coastline with backwater villages and palm‑lined beaches like Varkala and Kovalam. Staying in a family‑run homestay costs $10‑$12, and you can explore the coastline via the state‑run ferry system for under $2 per ride.

Andaman Islands may feel remote, but budget options exist, especially on Havelock Island where dorms start at $12 and snorkeling gear rental is $5 per day.

Sample 10‑Day Budget Itinerary

1. Day 1‑2: Fly into Delhi, explore the Old City, stay in a backpacker hostel ($10/night).
2. Day 3‑4: Take a night train to Jaipur ($15), see Amber Fort, stay in a heritage guesthouse ($12/night).
3. Day 5‑7: Fly to Goa (budget airline $80), chill on Baga Beach, rent a scooter, sample street food.
4. Day 8‑10: Fly or take an overnight train to Kochi, then a short bus ride to Varkala. Relax on the cliffs, enjoy yoga sessions ($5), and depart from Kochi.

This route keeps total accommodation under $120, food under $150, and transport (including two internal flights) around $250, leaving roughly $250 for souvenirs and unexpected splurges.

Money‑Saving Hacks for the Savvy Traveller

• Use the Google Flights “price‑calendar” to pinpoint the cheapest departure dates.
• Book Indian train tickets via the IRCTC portal; second‑class AC seats are the sweet spot for comfort and price.
• Carry a refillable water bottle and a small purifier tablet; bottled water costs $0.30 per litre in most cities.
• Shop at local markets for fresh fruit, snacks, and SIM cards (₹300 for a 30‑day data plan).
• Travel during the “shoulder season” (October‑November, February‑March) to avoid inflated hotel rates and crowds.

What’s No Longer Cheap?

While most budget basics stay affordable, a few areas have seen noticeable price jumps:

• Luxury resorts: Beachfront 5‑star properties now start at $120/night, up from $90 in 2022.
• Domestic flights: Low‑cost carriers have raised base fares by 12% due to higher fuel costs.
• Tourist activities: Organized scuba‑diving trips in the Andamans cost $40‑$50 per session, reflecting new safety regulations.

Bottom Line: Is India Still Cheap?

Short answer: yes, if you plan wisely. The core expenses-hostels, street food, trains, and basic beach huts-remain deep‑discount territory compared with Southeast Asian neighbours. The few cost spikes are limited to premium experiences.

So, pack your rucksack, set a daily budget of $30‑$35, and you’ll still get more miles, culture, and sunshine for every dollar than you would in many other popular destinations.