Trip Money India: How Much You Really Need to Travel Across India

When planning a trip to India, a diverse, affordable, and culturally rich country that attracts millions of travelers each year. Also known as the Indian subcontinent, it offers everything from Himalayan treks to beachside shacks — but the real question is: how much does it actually cost? Many think India is cheap because they’ve heard stories from ten years ago. But inflation, rising fuel prices, and growing tourism have changed the game. The truth? You can still travel India on a tight budget, but you need to know where to spend and where to save.

Let’s break it down. For a basic daily budget, most travelers spend between ₹1,500 and ₹3,500 per day (about $18–$42 USD). That covers a clean guesthouse, three local meals, and short taxi rides. If you’re staying in a mid-range hotel, eating at restaurants, and hopping between cities by train or private taxi, you’re looking at ₹5,000–₹8,000 per day. Transport, the biggest variable in India travel costs. Also known as local travel, it includes everything from ₹20 auto-rickshaw rides to ₹2,000 private drivers for a full day across states. A one-way train ticket from Delhi to Agra runs ₹300–₹1,200 depending on class. A private taxi for a 3-day tour of Rajasthan? Around ₹12,000–₹18,000, including fuel and driver. And yes, that’s often cheaper than booking three separate flights.

Food, is where India surprises you with value. Also known as street food culture, it’s not just cheap — it’s unforgettable. A plate of dal-chawal at a local dhaba? ₹80. A full thali with six dishes? ₹150. Even a fancy dinner in Goa or Mumbai won’t break ₹1,000. But avoid tourist traps near temples and monuments — they charge 3x for the same dish. And don’t forget hidden costs: temple donations, guided tours, SIM cards, and bottled water. A good prepaid SIM with 20GB data costs ₹200–₹400. A guided temple tour? ₹500–₹1,500. These add up fast if you’re not tracking them.

What about the seasons? Winter (October–March) is peak season — prices jump 30–50% in places like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Kerala. Monsoon (June–September) brings lower rates and fewer crowds, but some hill stations and beaches close. Summer (April–June) is hot and expensive in cities, but great for the Himalayas. Timing your trip can save you hundreds.

You don’t need to carry cash everywhere — most places take UPI now. But small vendors, rickshaw drivers, and rural temples still rely on rupees. Always keep ₹2,000–₹5,000 in small bills. ATMs are everywhere, but don’t wait until you’re out of cash to find one.

India’s magic isn’t in luxury. It’s in the ₹50 chai, the ₹150 train ride to a forgotten temple, the ₹200 homestay with a family who feeds you dinner. The trip money India needs isn’t about having a lot — it’s about knowing how to stretch it. Below, you’ll find real guides from travelers who’ve done it — what they spent, where they saved, and what they wish they’d known before they left.