Budget-Friendly Summer Travel Ideas for Families Based in India
As summer rolls in with its blazing sun and school holidays, families across India begin the hunt for perfect vacation spots. But with rising costs of travel and accommodation, many are looking for destinations that are not only enjoyable but also easy on the wallet. Thankfully, India is a treasure trove of affordable travel options that offer rich experiences, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.
In this blog, we bring you a list of budget-friendly summer travel ideas for families based in India, featuring places where you can unwind without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you’re looking for hill stations, beaches, cultural experiences, or adventure, this list has something for everyone.
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Why Visit: Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is one of the most accessible and popular hill stations in North India. With its colonial charm, pleasant weather, and scenic views, it’s perfect for a family summer getaway.
Top Attractions:
Mall Road
Kufri
Jakhoo Temple
Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
Budget Tips:
Travel by toy train from Kalka to Shimla for a scenic and affordable ride.
Book budget hotels or homestays in advance.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,200–₹1,500
2. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Why Visit: Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu offers a cool retreat with scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and spiritual sites.
Top Attractions:
Nakki Lake
Dilwara Temples
Guru Shikhar
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Budget Tips:
Use public transport or shared jeeps for sightseeing.
Eat at local dhabas for authentic and affordable Rajasthani meals.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,000–₹1,300
3. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Why Visit: A spiritual and adventure hub, Rishikesh offers serene beauty by the Ganges, yoga retreats, and adrenaline-filled activities like river rafting.
Top Attractions:
Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula
Triveni Ghat
Beatles Ashram
River Rafting & Camping
Budget Tips:
Choose budget ashrams or guesthouses for stays.
Enjoy free Ganga aarti and riverside activities.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹800–₹1,200
4. Pondicherry (Puducherry)
Why Visit: Known for its French architecture, clean beaches, and spiritual aura, Pondicherry is a delightful summer spot in South India.
Top Attractions:
Promenade Beach
Auroville
Paradise Beach
Sri Aurobindo Ashram
Budget Tips:
Rent bicycles for cheap and eco-friendly travel.
Stay in Aurobindo Ashram guesthouses for budget accommodation.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,000–₹1,400
5. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Why Visit: Nestled in the Himalayas, Darjeeling offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga, lush tea gardens, and colonial charm.
Top Attractions:
Tiger Hill
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Batasia Loop
Peace Pagoda
Budget Tips:
Use shared taxis or public buses.
Eat at local stalls and try momos and thukpa.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,200–₹1,600
6. Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka
Why Visit: Popularly called the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg is a serene hill station with coffee plantations, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
Top Attractions:
Abbey Falls
Raja’s Seat
Dubare Elephant Camp
Talacauvery
Budget Tips:
Opt for homestays which often include meals.
Travel in groups to split transport costs.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,200–₹1,500
7. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Why Visit: A refreshing hill station in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is known for strawberries, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.
Top Attractions:
Venna Lake
Arthur’s Seat
Mapro Garden
Pratapgad Fort
Budget Tips:
Visit during weekdays to get better hotel deals.
Enjoy local fruits and snacks to cut down on food costs.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,000–₹1,300
8. Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala
Why Visit: Famous for its backwaters, Alleppey offers houseboat stays, lush green scenery, and peaceful vibes.
Top Attractions:
Houseboat Cruise
Alappuzha Beach
Vembanad Lake
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (nearby)
Budget Tips:
Choose shared houseboats or day cruises.
Use local transport for sightseeing.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹1,200–₹1,500
9. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Why Visit: This little Tibet in India offers a blend of Buddhist culture, trekking trails, and scenic beauty.
Top Attractions:
Tsuglagkhang Monastery
Bhagsu Falls
Triund Trek
Tibetan Museum
Budget Tips:
Eat at Tibetan cafes for cheap and delicious meals.
Opt for hostels or guesthouses run by local families.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹800–₹1,200
10. Hampi, Karnataka
Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi is a historical treasure with ancient temples and boulder-strewn landscapes.
Top Attractions:
Virupaksha Temple
Vittala Temple
Hippie Island
Tungabhadra River
Budget Tips:
Explore on rented bicycles or mopeds.
Stay in local guesthouses across the river for cheaper rates.
Average Daily Budget per Person: ₹700–₹1,000
General Tips to Make Your Summer Travel Budget-Friendly:
Travel Off-Peak: Avoid weekends and public holidays for better rates.
Book Early: Train tickets and accommodations are cheaper when booked in advance.
Use IRCTC & State Tourism Websites: They often offer packages and discounts.
Go for Group Travel: Larger groups can split transportation and accommodation costs.
Pack Smart: Carry reusable bottles, snacks, and basic medical supplies to reduce on-the-go spending.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with family doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little planning and flexibility, you can explore India’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant culture without breaking the bank. The destinations listed above are not only picturesque but also wallet-friendly, making them ideal for unforgettable family getaways.
So, pack your bags and make this summer memorable—without stretching your budget!
