Budget Destinations for Backpackers in India

Budget Destinations for Backpackers

Backpacking is every travellers dream, and when it can be done on a small budget, nothing like it! If you are a fan of the thrill and adrenaline kick that backpacking across the country provides, you need to check out these amazing 11 destinations. They are not only beautiful, but also easy on the pocket. 

1. Goa

Considered to be the tourist haven of the country, Goa has something to offer visitors of all budget ranges. It is a great place to backpack as you can wander through the numerous beaches and visit the green expanses towards the north. Beachside shacks offer inexpensive food and you can stay in small inns available for budget travellers. Dil Chahta Hai andGo Goa Gone are two of the many movies that were shot here. 

2. Coorg

Located in the lap of the picturesque Western Ghats of Karnataka, Coorg is another favourite among backpackers. It is filled with waterfalls, lakes, green hills and clouds floating by. You can backpack through stunningly beautiful villages and hamlets, while enjoying cheap accommodation facilities. Coorg offers amazing trekking opportunities as well. To know more about Coorg, click here.

3. Jaisalmer

Here you can backpack through the sand dunes, gorgeous Jain temples, splendid havelis and stunning palaces with a kaleidoscope of experiences. Jaisalmer offers numerous opportunities for exploration. You can go on camel safaris, watch birds at the famous Gadsisar Lake and explore the mysteries of the Jaisalmer Fort. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam is one of the numerous movies shot in Jaisalmer.

4. Shillong

The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is definitely one of the most beautiful places in India. Characterised by several colonial buildings from the British era, Shillong is known as the Scotland of the East. Bollywood filmmakers are exploring Shillong as a new shooting destination in India. Rock On 2, the sequel to Farhan Akhtar starrer Rock On, is expected to be shot here. To know more about Meghalaya, click here.

5. Gokarna

Gokarna is located in the Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka. It is a small temple town renowned for its atmaling (self image) of Lord Shiva. Besides being one of the seven most important Hindu pilgrimage centres, Gokarna is also extremely picturesque, with its hills, stunning beaches, lush green valleys and beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. You can take a walk along the Aghanashini River and enjoy the palm tree lined lanes. The place offers decent budget accommodation as well. Ajay Devgan starrer Singham was shot here.

6. Dharamsala

Located in the lap of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala is famous for being the home of the Dalai Lama. You can explore Bhangsu, Dharamkot, Forsyth Ganj and Naddi in Dharamsala. The recent Priyanka Chopra starrer, Mary Kom, was shot here.

7. Kullu, Manali

Nestled in between the Pir Panjal, Parvati and the Barabhangal Ranges, Kullu is the most idyllic location in Himachal Pradesh. The valley has thick pine forests, roaring rivers, mountain villages, terraced fields, cherry and apple orchards, and snow flecked ridges. You can also take a ride up to Rohtang Pass, the gateway to Ladakh. Jab We Met was shot in the Kullu Manali valley. if you want know the different Bollywood movies shot in Manali, click here.

8. Ladakh

The serene and calm valleys of Ladakh transport you to another world. You can stay in camps on the banks of Pangong Lake, explore the Dras, Suru and Zanskar Valleys and check out the local markets here. Several movies, including the one of the biggest hits of all times, 3 Idiots, have been shot here. If you wish to read our article on the different locations in Ladakh where movies were shot, click here.

9. Araku Valley

The Araku Valley is a picturesque valley located in the district of Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. Primarily inhabited by different tribal communities, this place is an unspoiled haven. The best way to get to Araku is by train. The journey itself is thrilling. Several Telugu movies have been shot in this picturesque valley. However, Bollywood is yet to exploit the beauty of Araku.

10. Amritsar

Amritsar is the home of the Golden Temple and is sacred for the followers of Sikhism. The place has numerous tourist destinations that backpackers can enjoy. The food here is extremely delicious. Make sure you grab a bite at the roadside eateries. Want to know about the movies shot in Amritsar? Click here.

11. Khandala Ghats

If you like trekking among picturesque locales, you’ll find nirvana in Khandala. Located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, some of the places to visit are Tiger’s Leap point, Amrutanjan Point, Duke’s Nose, Karla and Bhaja Caves and Bhushi Lake. Sarfarosh and Kati Patang were shot here.

Backpacking in India is coming of age. If you are enthusiastic and have an adventurer within you, you’ll find numerous budget destinations in India. So, get your backpack ready and get going.