Hidden Gems In India That Feel Like Abroad: How To Plan A Budget-friendly Trip

As vacation season approaches, many people dream of exotic destinations like Switzerland, Thailand, England or France. But did you know, you can experience the feeling of travelling abroad within our country? Yes, India is home to stunning destinations that resemble the sought-after international spots. Here are 8 such places to visit this summer and how to plan a budget-friendly trip.

With summer here, many people have already started planning vacations to exotic destinations like England, Switzerland, France, Italy, Spain, or the US. However, the sky-high cost of travelling abroad with expensive flights, costly accommodations, and visa hassles can make planning challenging. But what if we told you that India itself is home to hidden gems that resemble these popular international destinations?

India is full of breathtaking destinations that offer the feel of international travel without leaving the country. From Shillong and Coorg, which reflect the charm of Scotland, to the Sundarbans that resemble the Amazon rainforest, there’s so much to explore. Places like Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh and Aru Valley in Kashmir are so scenic, they can easily remind you of Switzerland.

These lesser-known spots, often away from the spotlight, offer stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Here are 8 such destinations where you can enjoy an international vibe without spending a fortune.

Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh and Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh: India’s Grand Canyon

Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh showcases India’s very own Grand Canyon-like landscape.

It features dramatic cliffs, winding rivers, and breath-taking gorges. It’s a must visit place for nature lovers.

Bhedaghat in Madhya Pradesh also offers stunning gorge views and closely resembles  the USA’s iconic Grand Canyon.

Aru Valley, Kashmir & Khajjiar and Doodhpathri, Himachal Pradesh: The Switzerland of India

Located in Kashmir, Aru Valley mirrors the beauty of Switzerland. It offers lush green meadows, snow-capped peaks, and serene landscapes. 

Khajjiar and Doodhpathri in Himachal Pradesh are often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland' of India. It offers a peaceful retreat, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Sundarbans, West Bengal: India’s Amazon rainforest

The Sunderbans, with its dense mangroves, diverse wildlife and winding rivers resembles the Amazon rainforest. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the elusive Royal Bengal tiger and diverse bird species.

Andaman Islands: India’s tropical paradise like Phuket

The Andaman Islands are known for their turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. These islands depict the tropical charm of Phuket, Thailand. The place is perfect for snorkeling, diving or simply relaxing by the sea.

Shillong: Experience Scotland’s charm in northeast India

With its rolling hills, misty landscapes, and charming colonial architecture, Shillong is often called the Scotland of Northeast India. Located in Meghalaya, the serene hill station offres waterfalls, lakes and vibrant culture. 

Practical Tips For Budget Travel In India 

Plan Your Itinerary in Advance

If you’re travelling on a budget, it’s important to plan ahead for a smooth and affordable trip. Start by choosing destinations that match your interests and budget. Platforms like Skyscanner make it easy to compare prices, find great deals, and explore options. This helps you save on travel costs and spend more on experiences. 

Travel During the Off-Season 

One of the most effective ways to save your travel cost is to avoid peak season. The price of hotels and flights can be sky-high during popular travel times like October to March. Travelling during April-June and September-October or the monsoon season (July-August) can lead to massive savings.  

Choose Accomodation Wisely

India offers a vast range of lodging options to suit every budget. Opt for hostels, homestays, or budget guesthouses. You can search for best budget stays using websites like Skyscanner.

How to Find the Best Flight Deals With Skyscanner?

If you want to save money on flights, Skyscanner can help you find better deals with a few simple tricks.

• Set up a Price Alert on Skyscanner so you get notifications whenever fares drop for your selected route.

•  Use the month view on Skyscanner to compare prices across different dates. With this you can easily spot the cheapest day to fly.

•  Try searching “Everywhere” on Skyscanner if your destination is flexible. You might discover surprisingly cheap flights to places you hadn’t even considered.

These features on Skyscanner work well for both domestic and international trips. It helps you plan smarter and save more.