Backpacking across India offers an exhilarating blend of cultural richness, jaw-dropping landscapes, and budget-friendly adventures. From the sun-kissed beaches of Goa to the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, India’s diversity is matched only by its affordability for travellers. For UK backpackers, India is often cited as one of the cheapest places to travel in the world, a place where your pounds stretch surprisingly far. Yet with such variety between party hotspots and remote mountain villages, it’s essential to plan your budget wisely. This guide breaks down daily costs and budgeting tips to help you make the most of an Indian adventure without breaking the bank. 

Typical Costs of Backpacking in India 

How much will it cost? The good news is that backpacking in India is great value. Many budget travellers get by on around £12 – £25 a day, thanks to cheap accommodation, food, and transport. However, your exact daily spend will depend on several key factors: 

• Travel Style: Do you stick to basic hostels and street food, or do you crave a few comforts? A shoestring traveller can survive on very little, whereas opting for air-conditioned rooms or Western meals will increase costs. 
• Trip Duration: Longer trips let you travel slower and spend less per day. For example, taking your time (and even negotiating monthly rates) can lower accommodation costs. Meanwhile, overnight trains or buses save on lodging, and you can spread one-off costs (like visas or gear) over many weeks. 
• Destinations: India’s costs vary by region. Major cities like Delhi or Mumbai and tourist hubs can be pricier (especially for hotels or guided tours), whereas smaller towns and rural areas are extremely cheap. A day in expensive Mumbai might cost as much as 2–3 days in a smaller city like Jaisalmer or Darjeeling. Similarly, heavily touristed sites (e.g. Taj Mahal) charge higher entry fees for foreigners, whereas many temples or hikes are free. 
• Group vs Solo Travel: Sharing costs helps. If you travel with a friend or partner, you can split the room and taxi fares, making the per-person cost lower. Solo travellers should budget a bit more, since you’ll shoulder all expenses alone. 

Daily Budget Overview 

To help plan, here’s an overview of daily budget tiers for backpacking in India (in GBP): 

1. Low-end Budget 

• Cost (Per Day): £10 – £20
• What's included: Dorm bed in a hostel or basic guesthouse (around £5–£10 per night), eating street food and simple local meals (₹100–300 per meal, roughly £1–£3), and using public buses or second-class trains (often just a few pounds for long rides). Activities are mostly free – think wandering markets, temples, and self-guided exploration – or very cheap (museum entries for a couple of pounds). Perfect for travellers who don’t mind no-frills travel and want to stretch every rupee.

2. Mid-range Budget 

• Cost (Per Day): £20 – £40

• What’s Included: Guesthouse private rooms or mid-range hotels (£10–£25/night) for a bit more comfort, and dining at casual restaurants serving local cuisine (about £3–£7 per meal). This budget allows for the occasional domestic flight or AC train to save time (e.g. an internal flight might be £40–£80 if booked early) or private taxis for convenience. You can afford paid activities like safari tours or guided city walks (often £5–£15 each). A mid-range budget lets you experience India more comfortably while still keeping an eye on costs. 

3. High-end Budget 

• Cost (Per Day): £40+

• What’s Included: Staying in boutique hotels or upscale homestays (expect £30–£60 a night, still cheaper than equivalent UK hotels), eating at nicer restaurants or hotel dinners (£10+ per meal for high quality dining), and using air-conditioned transport – for example, hiring a car with driver (from ~£20 a day) or taking premier AC train classes. You’ll have plenty of room for guided tours, adventure activities, and last-minute flights. At £40 a day and above, you can travel very comfortably in India, indulging in experiences that would cost far more elsewhere. 

India’s affordability means even a small increase in budget goes a long way. For instance, spending £30 a day versus £15 can be the difference between a private ensuite room and a dorm, or taking an AC sleeper train instead of a fan-only carriage. No matter your budget tier, you’re bound to find India rewarding and full of options. 

Backpacking Costs by Region 

Costs can vary between India’s regions, as each comes with its own travel style and typical expenses. Below is a breakdown of average daily budget ranges and cost highlights in key backpacker regions of India, from beach havens to mountain hamlets. (All prices are in GBP and approximate.) 

1. Goa 

Average daily budget: £15 – £25

Goa is India’s legendary backpacker beach destination, and it remains quite affordable. Accommodation ranges from social hostel dorms and simple beach huts (~£5–£15 a night) to comfortable guesthouses near the coast (around £20+ in high season). Getting around is easy on the wallet: scooter rentals are popular at about ₹300 per day (≈£3), giving you freedom to explore palm-lined beaches and markets at minimal cost. Food in Goa can be very cheap if you stick to local beach shacks – a plate of Goan fish curry or veg thali might be just £2–£3, while a seafood dinner or Western dish at a tourist restaurant could be £5–£8. Thanks to low alcohol taxes in Goa, a cold beer on the beach can cost as little as ₹150 (£1.50), making the state’s famous party scene accessible even on a budget. Nightlife (club entries, psytrance beach parties) might add a bit to your daily spend – expect to pay £5–£10 for club entry or special events. Overall, a frugal traveller could enjoy Goa for under £20 a day, while party-goers or those seeking air-con rooms should budget closer to £25–£30 to be safe. 

2. Rajasthan 

Average daily budget: £15 – £30

Rajasthan – the land of forts and desert cities – is friendly to backpacker budgets. You’ll find heritage-looking hostels and budget hotels in cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, or Jodhpur for £5–£10 a night, often in restored havelis (traditional mansions). Even splurging on a charming guesthouse with a rooftop restaurant might only cost £20. Food is inexpensive: savoury street snacks like kachoris or samosas cost pennies, and a hearty restaurant meal of dal, curry and rotis might be ₹200–₹300 (around £2–£3) per person. In Rajasthan you may spend a bit more on sightseeing because the historic forts, palaces and museums charge higher entrance fees for foreigners – typically ₹500 per site (≈£5). Visiting multiple forts (for example, Jaipur’s Amber Fort, Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh) can therefore add £10–£15 in a day’s sightseeing. However, many attractions come with guides included or free audio tours, adding value. Transport across this sprawling state is a bargain: long-distance trains and state buses connecting cities (often overnight) cost on the order of ₹400–₹800 (£4–£8) depending on distance and class. An epic 12-hour sleeper train ride could be as little as **₹500 (£5). Within cities, auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) are usually just a pound or two (do haggle a bit). Even a camel safari in the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer is affordable (£20 for an overnight excursion). All told, Rajasthan can be seen on a shoestring, but if you plan to hit all the major forts with some guided tours (or want AC transport in the scorching summer), lean toward the higher end of the budget range. 

3. Delhi & Agra (The Golden Triangle) 

Average daily budget: £20 – £35

India’s Golden Triangle – encompassing the capital Delhi, Agra (home of the Taj Mahal), and often Jaipur – is a must-do route, but it’s slightly pricier than the countryside. In Delhi, backpackers often stay in areas like Paharganj or Karol Bagh where hostel beds cost around £5–£8 and basic private rooms around £15. Food in Delhi can be incredibly cheap – you can feast on spicy street chaats or a filling plate of biryani for under ₹150 (£1.50) – but you might also be tempted by the city’s trendy cafes and international eateries, which will push meal costs up to £5–£10 each. In Agra, the Taj Mahal is the big-ticket expense: an entry ticket for foreign visitors is about ₹1100 (≈£10) – by far one of the most expensive attractions in India, but a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Other historical sites like Agra Fort or Fatehpur Sikri cost around ₹500 (£5) each. Transportation in this region is still cheap: the Delhi–Agra Gatimaan Express train costs about ₹1500 (£15) in AC chair class (less in lower classes), or you can take a bus for just a few pounds. Within Delhi, the metro is a godsend for budget travel – a few rides will only amount to ₹100 or so (£1) total, and it connects most tourist areas. Many travellers hire a car + driver to do Delhi-Agra-Jaipur in a week for convenience; this private tour approach might cost around £50–£60 per day in total (split among a group) including driver and fuel. If you’re sticking to public transport and local eateries, you can cover the Golden Triangle on the lower end of the budget. But those who prefer guided tours, faster travel (flights), or dining out frequently in Delhi should budget closer to £30+ per day. 

4. Varanasi 

Average daily budget: £10 – £20

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India on the Ganges, is one of the most budget-friendly stops of all. Many backpackers come here for the spirituality and ambience rather than luxury, and the costs reflect that. You can find simple guesthouse rooms or hostel beds for £3–£6 a night in the old city near the ghats (riverside steps). These often have basic amenities but also priceless sunrise views over the Ganges. Food is very cheap: a vegetarian meal at a local eatery or ashram can be under ₹100 (£1). Even popular backpacker cafes serving continental fare are usually under £4 per dish. A lot of what you’ll do in Varanasi won’t cost much – wandering the ancient lanes, observing ceremonies by the ghats, or visiting temples (most temples are free entry, though some accept donations). One iconic experience to budget for is an early morning or sunset boat ride on the Ganges to witness the famous ghats and rituals from the water. A shared boat ride can be as low as ₹200–₹300 per person (£2–£3), while a private boat might be £5–£10. Local guides can be hired for a few pounds to show you hidden corners and explain Varanasi’s rich history, but make sure to agree on prices beforehand. Transport expenses here are minimal since the old city is best explored on foot. Rickshaw rides across town cost just ₹50–₹100 (well under £1). In short, Varanasi offers a deep cultural experience on a shoestring budget – it’s entirely possible to live on £10 a day here if you’re watching your spending, though setting aside a bit more will allow for guided experiences and maybe a yoga class or music lesson in this holy city. 

5. Himachal Pradesh & The Himalayan Foothills 

Average daily budget: £15 – £30

Heading to the Himalayas and the hill states (like Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand) offers not only natural beauty but also good value for money. In backpacker havens such as Manali, Dharamshala (McLeod Ganj), or Rishikesh, you’ll find dorm beds and basic lodges for £4–£8 a night and cozy private cabins or guesthouses for £10–£20. Many mountain villages have homestay options that include home-cooked meals for a low price, stretching your budget further. Daily food costs are modest: a hot plate of momos (dumplings) or a bowl of noodle soup from a Himalayan street stall costs maybe ₹50–₹100 (less than £1), and even a sit-down meal of curry and rice in a tourist café will be around ₹200–₹300 (£2–£3). Getting around in the hills is cheap but can be slow – public buses between mountain towns often cost just a few pounds (e.g. ₹300 for a 5-6 hour ride, about £3), but prepare for winding roads. Taxis/jeeps are more expensive but sometimes necessary to reach remote trailheads; you might pay £10–£20 for a longer taxi ride split with other travellers. The biggest potential costs in the Himalayas come from adventure activities. If you join a trekking tour or guided hike, prices vary by length and group size – a 3-day guided trek with gear and food might cost on the order of £80–£100 total. Day hikes, however, are usually free (or just require a small permit fee or guide tip). Yoga and meditation retreats in places like Rishikesh or Dharamkot are excellent value – some are donation-based, while structured multi-day retreats or courses can range from £50 to £200 depending on duration and inclusions. Because these regions are more remote, always keep a bit extra in your budget for surprises (like needing an unplanned domestic flight back to Delhi, £50–£100 one-way). On average, though, a traveller can enjoy the Himalayan foothills comfortably for around £20 a day, relishing the fresh mountain air without worrying about the wallet. 

Budgeting for a Long-Term Trip (3–6 Months in India) 

Planning a long-term backpacking trip across India (say, 3 to 6 months) is exciting, and it’s where India’s low costs really shine. Many UK travellers take extended trips in India because you can travel for months here for the cost of just a few weeks in Western Europe. For a multi-month journey, it’s wise to set a total budget rather than a strict daily allowance, since you’ll likely slow down your travel pace over time and have some high-spending days balanced by many low-spending ones. 

• 3 months (approx. 90 days): A realistic budget for three months in India can range from £1,500 (very frugal) to around £2,500 for a more comfortable experience. This assumes an average of ~£15–£25 per day. Example: £1,800 could cover 3 months of travel if you mostly stay in hostels and take trains/buses, with some room for the occasional flight or splurge meal. (Notably, £1,800 is about the same as 3 weeks of backpacking Western Europe – in India it can last a quarter of a year!) 
• 6 months (approx. 180 days): For a half-year in India, budget roughly £3,000 – £5,000 in total. Six months on £3,000 would require keeping to a tight budget (~£17 per day), which is doable if you rent rooms long-term in cheaper areas and travel overland slowly. On the higher end, £5,000 (about £28 per day) would allow more comfort and flexibility, including domestic flights, guided excursions, and a cushion for unexpected costs. Many long-term backpackers actually find they spend less per day as the trip goes on: you might settle into a slower rhythm, revisit favourite cheap locales, or take days off from sightseeing to relax (which costs very little). 

Additional long-term considerations: Big upfront expenses like flights to India and visa fees will add to your total trip cost (a UK-to-India return flight might be £400–£600, and a 6-month tourist visa fee is around £120). These aren’t part of your daily budget but are important in planning your finances. It’s wise to have an emergency fund as well, in case of surprises like a medical visit or last-minute flight – travel insurance can help with some of these (more on that below). Overall, spending 6 months exploring India can cost less than 1 month in the UK, which is why it’s such a popular gap-year destination. By budgeting prudently and adjusting your pace, you can enjoy an extended adventure without running out of funds.  

Tip: As a long-term traveller, take advantage of monthly rates (many hostels or guesthouses will negotiate discounts for longer stays) and consider using slower transit (local trains, buses) to save money while you have the time. 

Smart Money-Saving Tips for India 

Budgeting doesn’t mean missing out – it means spending smart. Here are some practical tips to help UK backpackers save money while travelling in India, without skimping on experiences: 

1. Get a Local SIM Card: Roaming with your UK phone will rack up huge bills. Instead, buy a local Indian SIM (from providers like Jio or Airtel) as soon as you arrive. For just a few pounds, you can get a month of unlimited data and calls, which means cheap internet for using maps, ride-hailing apps, and keeping in touch. Having internet on the go also helps you find local deals and avoid tourist traps. (Remember to bring an unlocked phone. SIM registration requires your passport and a visa copy, but the process is quick.)
2. Use Train & Bus Booking Apps: India’s public transport is extremely cost-effective, especially if you book yourself rather than through agents or hotels. Download apps like IRCTC Rail Connect or reputable third-party apps (e.g. 12Go, RedBus) to book train and bus tickets online at the official rates. This saves you money and secures your seat on popular routes. Sleeper trains and state-run buses are not only cheap, they also offer authentic travel experiences. For instance, an overnight bus might cost £5 instead of a £50 flight. Bonus tip: When possible, travel overnight to save on a night’s accommodation – the sleeper berth doubles as your bed!
3. Carry Cash (and ATM Tips): Cash is king in most of India’s day-to-day transactions. While cities have card acceptance in mid-range businesses, you’ll need cash for local eateries, market shopping, bus tickets, and smaller guesthouses. ATM machines are widespread in cities and large towns, but international cards may face a withdrawal fee (often around ₹200 per transaction) and a limit per withdrawal (₹10,000–₹20,000, roughly £100–£200). To minimise fees, withdraw the maximum you’re comfortable carrying, and use ATMs inside banks or malls for safety. Also, keep a mix of small bills (₹10, ₹50, ₹100) – rural shops or bus conductors often can’t break a ₹2000 note. Be cautious when withdrawing late at night and guard your PIN, as you would anywhere. Having sufficient cash on hand will enable you to pay like a local and even negotiate better prices.
4. Bargain and Buy Local: Haggling is a way of life in India’s markets and with street vendors or rickshaw drivers. Tourists are often quoted higher prices, so a polite but firm negotiation can save you a significant amount over the course of your trip. Always bargain for souvenirs, clothing, and taxi/auto-rickshaw fares (unless using a metered cab or ride app). Similarly, seek out local eateries and street food stalls away from tourist-heavy areas, not only will prices be lower, but the food is likely more authentic. Following the local crowds can lead you to a delicious ₹100 (£1) dinner instead of a ₹500 (£5) one targeted at tourists. Every small saving adds up on a long trip!
5. Carry a Water Bottle & Purify: Buying disposable bottled water every day isn’t just an environmental concern; it also adds unnecessary expense. In hot India, you’ll need to stay hydrated, so invest in a good reusable water bottle. Many hostels, cafes, and hotels offer filtered water refills either free or for a nominal fee (₹5–₹10). You can also carry water purification tablets or a Steripen/filter bottle to safely drink tap water. This could save you a couple of pounds each day and reduce plastic waste. Plus, it’s more convenient to refill on the go than constantly searching for shops. Over months of travel, these savings (and eco-friendly choices) make a big difference.
6. Use Apps for Rides and Deals: Take advantage of smartphone apps to save money. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola often have lower fares than haggling with a random taxi; you’ll know the price upfront (and it’s usually dirt cheap for the distance). For intercity travel, check aggregator sites for flights to snag promotional fares. Apps like Zomato can give you discounts or cashback at restaurants, and MakeMyTrip or Goibibo sometimes have app-only rates for accommodation. If you’re a student or under 30, an international student card or youth card might fetch you discounts at some tourist sites (carry your ID, even if not always advertised). 

By using these strategies, staying connected affordably, leveraging India’s vast public transport, and embracing local ways, you’ll find that you can cut costs without cutting the fun. A rupee saved is a rupee earned for your next adventure, maybe a safari in Rajasthan or a diving trip in the Andamans! 

Why Backpackers Travel Insurance is Essential for India 

Backpacking India is thrilling and rewarding, but it also comes with unpredictable moments – from upset stomachs and overnight train delays to the occasional monkey thief pilfering your food! This is why having travel insurance designed for backpackers is absolutely crucial. It provides a safety net so you can explore with peace of mind. Here are some key reasons you’ll want solid insurance cover in India: 

• Medical Emergencies in Remote Areas: Adventuring in India can take you far off the beaten track – you might be trekking in the Himalayas or exploring rural villages where advanced medical care isn’t readily available. If you fall ill or get injured, good insurance ensures you have access to quality treatment (or evacuation) without facing exorbitant hospital bills. For example, a helicopter evacuation from a mountain or a few days in a private hospital could cost thousands of pounds out of pocket. Travel insurance covers these emergencies, getting you the care you need no matter where you are.
• Lost or Stolen Belongings: Crowded buses, busy markets, and overnight trains are amazing experiences – but they can also be environments where luggage goes missing or phones get snatched. Petty theft can happen to even the most careful traveller. If your backpack is stolen or your camera goes missing, insurance can reimburse you for your lost items, helping you replace essentials and continue your journey. It’s a relief to know that a theft or loss won’t derail your trip financially. (Tip: Always file a police report for any theft, as your insurer will likely require this for claims.)
• Travel Delays and GigaShield: In India, delays happen – monsoon rains can disrupt flights for days. Rather than simply endure the inconvenience, with Gigasure’s GigaShield feature, you can receive real-time cash payouts for flight and baggage delays. For instance, if your flight from Delhi to Goa is delayed overnight, GigaShield can quickly provide funds via the app to cover a hotel and meals, sparing you the upfront cost and stress. This kind of travel disruption coverage means a hiccup in your itinerary won’t become a crisis for your wallet.
• Global Search and Rescue: If you’re heading into the mountains or off-grid areas, this benefit is a literal lifesaver. Global Search and Rescue cover means that if you go missing on a trek or face a natural disaster, professional rescue teams can be dispatched to assist you, with the costs covered by your policy. In the rare event you need an emergency evacuation (say, due to altitude sickness on a high-altitude trek or being stranded by landslides), you’ll be very glad to have this coverage. Knowing this backup is in place allows you to trek and explore wilderness zones more confidently and responsibly.
• Easy Claims and 24/7 Support with the App: Managing insurance is easy with the Gigasure app. You can submit claims on your phone and get help quickly, rather than waiting on hold for hours. Gigasure policies include 24/7 emergency assistance, for medical emergencies. The app also lets you monitor your cover, so you’re always aware of what you’re entitled to. This is especially useful for long trips where you might need to extend cover or use multiple benefits. In short, the app puts a helpful travel insurance agent in your pocket throughout your Indian adventure. 

In summary, a robust Backpackers Travel Insurance policy is as essential as your backpack itself when journeying through India. It safeguards you against the kind of setbacks that are otherwise common in adventurous travel. Fortunately, Gigasure offers a dedicated backpacker policy that includes all the above features and more, tailored for explorers like you. With a Gigasure Backpackers Travel Insurance plan in hand, you can wander from Goa’s beaches to Himalayan trails knowing you’re covered if things don’t go to plan.

Plan Your India Backpacking Adventure with Confidence 

Now that you have a clear picture of what daily life will cost on the road – from ₹20 chai stops to £10 palace tours – you’re well equipped to craft an incredible journey across India. Travelling in India, with all its colour and contrast, is often a transformative experience for UK backpackers. Embrace the affordable spontaneity: one week you might be lounging on a Goa beach, the next trekking to a Himalayan meadow, all without draining your bank account. By budgeting smartly and securing the right travel insurance before you go, you’ll ensure that no surprise expense or mishap can steal away your peace of mind. Gigasure offers flexible, tailored cover for backpackers so you can focus on the magic of India rather than the what-ifs. 

So, pack your rucksack, grab your passport, and get ready to explore the wonders of India – from the golden deserts of Rajasthan to the sacred waters of Varanasi. With careful planning, an open heart, and the proper cover backing you up, you can travel further and deeper, knowing you’re protected every step of the way. India awaits with open arms and endless adventures. Happy travels, and remember: the world is your canvas – paint it with experiences, safe in the knowledge that Gigasure has got you covered! 

Some of the Sources Used for Research:  

• Booking.com 
• Airbnb
• KAYAK
• Trivago 
• Tripadvisor
• HostelWorld
• Expedia
• Google