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Hey wanderlusters! Ready to make 2025 the year you finally tick off those international trips from your bucket list without burning a hole in your wallet? We know the struggle—dreaming of exotic places while counting every rupee. But guess what? You can travel abroad on a budget! Whether you’re craving cultural vibes, mouthwatering street food, or once-in-a-lifetime adventures, we’ve handpicked 10 budget-friendly international destinations that are perfect for young Indian travelers like you. Let’s dive in!
10 budget-friendly international destinations
1.Chiang Mai: Thailand
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s cultural heart, and a dream destination for budget travelers. Picture yourself exploring golden temples like Wat Phra Singh, sipping on Thai iced tea at bustling night markets, and trekking through lush mountains to meet gentle elephants at ethical sanctuaries.
- Stay in charming hostels for around ₹600–₹1000 per night, feast on delicious pad thai for just ₹150, and score return flights from India for as low as ₹15,000—if you book smart.
- Pro tip: Visit during the Loi Krathong Festival in November to witness the magical lantern releases that will leave you spellbound.
2.Siem Reap, Cambodia
Ever dreamed of watching the sunrise over the iconic Angkor Wat? Siem Reap is your gateway to Cambodia’s ancient wonders, and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly.
A 3-day temple pass costs around ₹3,000, giving you access to the incredible Angkor Archaeological Park, home to iconic sites like Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm (the “Tomb Raider” temple). Dorm beds start at just ₹500 per night, making it an affordable destination for solo travelers and backpackers alike.
- Beyond temples, Siem Reap offers a lively vibe at Pub Street, where you can feast on local dishes like amok curry for just ₹200. Take a cooking class to learn the art of Cambodian cuisine or explore local markets for unique souvenirs and fresh tropical fruits.
- Flights from India typically hover around ₹18,000, but with a little planning and flexibility, you can often score better deals!
3.Budapest, Hungary
Think Europe is out of reach? Think again! Budapest is the place for stunning architecture, rich history, and those famous thermal baths. Soak in the grandeur of Buda Castle, snap pics at Fisherman’s Bastion, and enjoy a cruise down the Danube at sunset.
Budget Travel Tips:
- Stay in hostels starting at just ₹1,200 per night.
- Feast on hearty Hungarian goulash for around ₹400.
- Flights from India can drop below ₹30,000 if you book smart and early.
- Many attractions, like Buda Castle grounds, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Chain Bridge, are completely free to visit—perfect for budget explorers!
4.Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is all about good vibes, great food, and soulful experiences. Wander through the narrow, cobbled alleys of Alfama, admire the city’s iconic azulejo-tiled buildings, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere at LX Factory, a creative hub filled with shops, cafes, and art.
- Hostels cost around ₹1,200-₹1,500 per night, and you can score flights from India for ₹28,000-₹35,000 if you hunt for deals. Lisbon’s laid-back charm is perfect for travelers who love culture, music, and, of course, sunsets by the sea.
- No trip to Lisbon is complete without tasting the iconic pastel de nata—a creamy custard tart—for just ₹150.
5.Kathmandu, Nepal
For Indian travelers, Nepal is the ultimate affordable getaway. In Kathmandu, explore Durbar Square, spin prayer wheels at Boudhanath Stupa, and sip sweet chai at street-side stalls. Trekking enthusiasts? Head for the Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Viewpoint—the views are priceless!
- The best part? Kathmandu is ridiculously affordable. Budget hostels start at just ₹500 per night, while a plate of steaming hot momos or a bowl of thukpa (noodle soup) costs under ₹150. Flights from Delhi or Kolkata often dip below ₹8,000—cheaper than a domestic flight to Goa!
- Pro tip: If you’re up for an adventure, Kathmandu is the perfect starting point for treks like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit. Even a short hike to Nagarkot rewards you with stunning Himalayan views—on a shoestring budget!
6.Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is where old-world charm meets a buzzing artsy vibe. Stroll down Rustaveli Avenue, chill in sulfur baths, and sip local wine (yes, Georgia’s the birthplace of wine!). Explore Narikala Fortress for epic views, and indulge in cheesy khachapuri for just ₹250.
- Budget stays start at ₹1,000 per night, and round-trip flights from India can be found for ₹25,000-₹30,000. Plus, Indians can get an e-visa easily, making Tbilisi a no-brainer for 2025!
- Pro tip: Visit during Tbilisoba (October) to experience the city’s biggest festival, filled with music, dance, and endless food stalls. Trust us—Tbilisi’s charm will make you want to extend your stay!
7.Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh is where Cambodia’s past and present collide. Visit the haunting Killing Fields, explore the Royal Palace, and sip iced coffee while watching the sunset over the Mekong River.Afterward, reward yourself with a feast at local markets: try num pang (Cambodian sandwiches) for about ₹150 or flavorful fish amok curry for ₹200.
- Accommodations here are super affordable, with dorm beds and guesthouses starting around ₹500 per night. Flights from India typically hover between ₹18,000-₹20,000, making it a budget traveler’s dream.
- Pro tip: Rent a bike and explore hidden temples just outside the city or hop on a river cruise to catch the sunset over Phnom Penh’s skyline. Trust us—this city’s blend of history and chill vibes will steal your heart.
8.Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of cultures, and your wallet will thank you for visiting! Marvel at the Petronas Towers, eat your way through Jalan Alor’s street food scene (satay for ₹100!), and shop for souvenirs in Central Market.
- Budget hostels start at ₹600-₹800 per night, and flights from India can be as low as ₹12,000. The best part? Visa-on-arrival for Indians makes this a super easy destination!
- Don’t miss wandering through Bukit Bintang for nightlife or chilling at the beautiful KLCC Park after a day of sightseeing. For a budget friendly international trips adventure, hop on the free Go KL City Bus that takes you around major tourist spots without spending a dime.
- Pro tip: Visit the Batu Caves, just a short train ride away, to marvel at the giant golden statue and climb colorful steps without breaking the bank!
9.Almaty, Kazakhstan
Almaty feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Think snow-capped Tien Shan Mountains, the colorful Green Bazaar, and the serene beauty of Big Almaty Lake. Plus, it’s super affordable!
- Hostels from ₹800, meals around ₹300, and flights for ₹25,000-₹30,000. And yes, you can ride a cable car up Kok-Tobe Hill for epic city views. Adventure vibes? Absolutely!
- If you visit in spring or autumn, you’ll catch Almaty at its best—lush greenery or golden leaves, with perfect weather for exploring the Zenkov Cathedral, Soviet-era architecture, and bustling cafes. And yes, Indians can get an e-visa, so no long embassy queues!
10. Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta is the perfect starting point for exploring Indonesia’s islands. But before you head to Bali, explore Jakarta’s vibrant street food scene (try nasi goreng for ₹150), visit Monas Tower, and dive into the local markets.
- Budget stays at ₹700 per night, flights for ₹18,000-₹22,000, and from there, it’s easy to hop to Yogyakarta, Bali, or Lombok. City life, culture, and beach escapes—all rolled into one trip!
- Pro tip: Use Jakarta as a budget-friendly layover before hopping to other islands—flights within Indonesia are cheap, and you’ll get a taste of the country’s diversity all in one trip!
Travel Tips for Budget Explorers:
- Stay Insured: Always carry basic travel insurance—it’s cheaper than you think!
- Flights: Book early! Use tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and ixigo to track fare drops.
- Stay Smart: Hostels, Airbnb, and local guesthouses give you better stories and save you cash.
- Go Offbeat: Avoid tourist traps and explore local spots—cheaper and more authentic.
- Currency Apps: Use apps like XE to keep track of conversions.
Ready to Pack Your Bags?
There you have it—10 budget-friendly international destinations that prove you don’t need a fat wallet to live your international travel dreams in 2025. From exploring ancient temples in Cambodia to soaking in the European budget friendly international trips charm of Budapest, these places are calling your name.
So, what’s the wait? Start planning, set your travel alerts for flight deals, and get ready to collect memories, not just souvenirs.
Where will you go first? Let us know in the comments! Let’s make 2025 the year of epic adventures!
