We all know how stress at home or at work can take a toll on our mental health. Though there are many ways and methods for alleviating stress, travel is one of the most stress-relieving activities you can use. Regardless if it is an out of town trip or out of the country destination, as long as it is affordable, why not travel a bit to relax and de-stress?
For those who are looking for budget friendly overseas destinations, one country you should not miss is India. This is a place where you will get more for your buck! Since the conversion rate of American dollars to Indian Rupees has become more favorable ($1.00 = INR 64.00), you can actually even add more destinations to your itinerary! Below are five of the cheapest entertaining locations you can enjoy in India.
Alleppey
Alleppey is what they call “The Venice of the East”. It is famous for its lagoons, waterways, and verdant countryside. You can ride small boats and cruise around the lagoons where tasty seafood is easily accessible. Most of their authentic dishes are laced with coconut milk, chili, turmeric and cardamom. The dish I can definitely recommend is their curry. It is not just delicious, it is also healthy! They either use chicken or fish and a blend of spices.
Cost: 2 days and 3 nights of stay in Alleppey will cost you around 500 to 700 INR (depending on where you stay and dine).
Rishikesh
This place is well suited for those who love sports and other physical activities. As this location is swamped with beach camps, white water rafting and exhilarating hikes, the adventurer in you will surely have great fun there. You can also visit the famous Valley of Flowers from it. One thing you need to know and should abide by is their strict rules on alcohol and food. This destination is completely vegan and free of any alcohol.
Cost: 2 days and 1 night of stay will cost you from INR 650 to INR 2000. You will spend about INR 300 on your travel to and from New Delhi. Your meals per day will cost around INR 200 to INR 250. Other activities like water rafting will cost around INR 400 to INR 1300 (depending on the kind of package you avail).
Gokarna
If you are looking for a more peaceful and tranquil stay, Gokarna is a great place for you to see. Gokarna has numerous beach destinations and getting there is quite simple. You can hire small boats to take you from one beach to another. Om Beach neal Mangalore is usually the easiest place to go to. But if you get a little bit restless, these resorts offer water activities that you can engage in. The best part is these beaches are budget-friendly destinations.
Cost: Your expenses for food, accommodation, and fare for 3 days and 2 nights will total you around INR 1500. Your fare from Bangalore to Gokarna and back by bus is around INR 700 to INR 800, daily food would be INR 200 and activities like banana boat rides, jet ski and other water activities will cost you around INR 300.
Dharamsala And McLeodganj
The cities of Dharamsala And McLeodganj are lined with temples and monasteries that you can visit. If you are after a more peaceful destination, this is the place to go. Considered as a mini-Tibet, this colorful hill station also offers other adventurous activities like trekking and camping.
Cost: A total of INR 2000 is enough to provide you with a stay of 3 days and 2 nights. Your stay at a local inn costs around INR 130 to INR 500. You can get to Dharamsala And McLeodganj from New Delhi and back for just INR 1000, sometimes less. Your food for the duration of your stay will cost around INR 200 to INR 350.
Sikkim
This place has a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, picturesque treks and beautiful views of the Himalayas. If you are a photographer, an artist, or someone who just loves gorgeous sceneries, Sikkim is the place for you. Aside from its beautiful warm climate, its scenic views and rich culture are definitely Instagram-worthy!
Cost: INR 1500 is a good budget for this destination. An Ideal duration would be 3 days and 2 nights. Your travel fare will cost you INR 400 from Kolkata to Siliguri, and Siliguri to Gangtok. Hotels are also available from INR 500 and up. Staying in lodging houses or dorms is cheaper and can go from INR 120 to INR 200 only. Meals are around INR 100 and up.
