Top 10 International Budget Destinations from Delhi Airport

Planning a budget-friendly international trip? Delhi Airport connects you to a world of affordable adventures.

Affordability starts with the flight charges. And then continues till accommodations, local sightseeing and all the activities that you engage in at a particular place. However, if you want to save drastically while travelling–a pro tip would be to start booking tickets at least 3 months prior to your trip.

Here’s a curated list of exciting and affordable destinations you can easily reach from Delhi Airport.

Here are the tips to save on your budget, when you visit these locations.

1. Kathmandu, Nepal

Why Go?

Kathmandu is a treasure trove of ancient temples, bustling markets, and scenic mountain views. Whether you're an adventurer looking to trek the Himalayas or a culture enthusiast eager to explore historical sites, Kathmandu offers rich experiences without a hefty price tag.

Ideal No. of Days: 3-4

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹12000-13000

Budget Tips:

• Public Transport: Utilise local buses and shared taxis for inexpensive travel around the city.
• Accommodations: Opt for guesthouses or hostels in the Thamel area, which cater to budget travellers.
• Activities: Enjoy free attractions like Durbar Square and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and consider joining group treks to share costs.

Food Recommendations:

• Local Eateries: Try momos (dumplings) and dal bhat (rice with lentils) at local eateries.
• Street Food: Savor street food like chatamari (Nepali pizza) and samosas from vendors around Durbar Square.
• Budget-Friendly Cafes: Enjoy a meal at budget-friendly cafes in Thamel, which offer both local and international cuisine at reasonable prices.

2. Hanoi, Vietnam

Why Go?

Hanoi combines traditional Vietnamese culture with a touch of French colonial charm. The city is known for its chaotic yet charming Old Quarter, serene lakes, and vibrant street life. Hanoi is an ideal destination for budget travellers looking for a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.

Ideal No. of Days: 2-3

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹17000-20000

Budget Tips:

• Public Transport: Use the local bus system or rent a bicycle to explore the city inexpensively.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget hostels or homestays in the Old Quarter for convenient access to major attractions.
• Activities: Take advantage of free activities like strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake and visiting local markets. Many museums and temples have nominal entrance fees.

Food Recommendations:

• Street Food: Don’t miss out on pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) from street vendors.
• Local Markets: Enjoy bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) at local markets and food stalls.
• Cafes: Experience egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty, at traditional cafes in the Old Quarter.

3. Phuket, Thailand

Why Go?

Phuket offers a mix of stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks. It’s a versatile destination where you can relax by the sea, explore bustling markets, and enjoy a dynamic nightlife, all while staying within a budget.

Ideal No. of Days: 5-7

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: Around ₹23000

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Use songthaews (shared trucks) and local buses to travel around cheaply.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget guesthouses or hostels near Patong Beach or Old Phuket Town.
• Activities: Spend your days on the beaches, visit free attractions like the Big Buddha, and explore local markets. Many tours offer discounts if booked in groups.

Food Recommendations:

• Street Food: Try pad thai (stir-fried noodles) and tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) from street vendors.
• Night Markets: Sample a variety of local dishes at the Phuket Weekend Market.
• Beachside Eateries: Enjoy affordable seafood at local beachside restaurants.

4. Colombo, Sri Lanka

Why Go?

Colombo blends modern city life with historical sites and coastal beauty. This vibrant city offers diverse experiences from its colonial architecture and bustling markets to its serene beaches and temples, making it an ideal destination for budget travellers.

Ideal No. of Days: 7-15 (depending on itinerary)

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹18000-21000

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Use tuk-tuks or public buses to navigate the city affordably.
• Accommodations: Opt for budget hotels or guesthouses in areas like Fort or Pettah.
• Activities: Explore free attractions like Galle Face Green and Viharamahadevi Park. Consider joining group tours for cost-effective sightseeing.

Food Recommendations:

• Local Delicacies: Savour kottu roti (chopped roti with vegetables and meat) and hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes) from local eateries.
• Street Food: Enjoy fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry) and egg hoppers from street food stalls.
• Cafes: Visit budget-friendly cafes for a taste of Ceylon tea and traditional snacks.

5. Baku, Azerbaijan

Why Go?

Baku is a fascinating blend of the ancient and modern, with its historic Old City and futuristic architecture. It’s an affordable destination offering unique cultural experiences, from exploring its UNESCO-listed sites to strolling along the Caspian Sea.

Ideal No. of Days: 3-4

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹21000-25000

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Utilise the metro and buses for cheap city travel.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget hostels or guesthouses within the Old City or downtown Baku.
• Activities: Wander through the Old City for free, visit the Maiden Tower and Flame Towers, and enjoy Baku Boulevard without spending much.

Food Recommendations:

• Local Cuisine: Try dishes like plov (pilaf) and dolma (stuffed vine leaves) at local restaurants.
• Street Food: Enjoy kebabs and Qutab (stuffed flatbread) from street vendors.
• Bakeries: Visit local bakeries for fresh bread and pastries at reasonable prices.

6. Tbilisi, Georgia

Why Go?

Tbilisi is a charming city with a rich history, diverse architecture, and a lively arts scene. Known for its warm hospitality and vibrant culture, Tbilisi is a perfect budget destination for those seeking a mix of urban exploration and natural beauty.

Ideal No. of Days: 3

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹14000-17000

Budget Tips: 10

• Public Transport: Use the metro, buses, and marshrutkas (mini buses) for affordable travel within the city.
• Accommodations: Choose budget hostels or guesthouses in the Old Town for easy access to attractions.
• Activities: Explore free attractions like Narikala Fortress and Tbilisi Botanical Garden. Walking tours are a cost-effective way to see the city.

Food Recommendations:

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings) at local taverns.
• Street Food: Savour Mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers) and churchkhela (candied nuts on a string) from street vendors.
• Wine Bars: Experience Georgian wine at budget-friendly wine bars and cafes.

7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Why Go?

Kuala Lumpur is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic skyline, cultural diversity, and vibrant street food scene. It’s a budget-friendly destination offering a mix of modern attractions and traditional markets.

Ideal No. of Days: 4-5

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: Fluctuates

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Use the extensive public transport network, including the LRT and monorail, to get around cheaply.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget hotels or hostels in areas like Bukit Bintang or Chinatown.
• Activities: Visit free attractions like the Petronas Towers Skybridge, Batu Caves, and the city’s many parks. Enjoy affordable shopping in local markets.

Food Recommendations:

• Street Food: Try nasi lemak (coconut rice with sides) and roti canai (flatbread with curry) from street vendors.
• Hawker Centers: Enjoy a variety of dishes at hawker centres and food courts.
• Local Cafes: Indulge in traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine at budget-friendly local cafes.

8. Bangkok, Thailand

Why Go?

Bangkok is a vibrant city known for its bustling street markets, ornate temples, and dynamic nightlife. It's a cultural hotspot that combines traditional and modern experiences.

Ideal No. of Days: 4-5 days

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹15,000 - ₹27,000

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Use the BTS Skytrain and MRT for cheap and efficient travel.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget hostels or guesthouses in areas like Khao San Road. Enjoy street food which is both delicious and affordable.

Food Recommendations:

• Street Food: Try Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and Mango Sticky Rice from street vendors for an authentic and budget-friendly culinary experience.

9. Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Why Go?

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, offers a blend of Soviet-era architecture and Islamic culture. The city is rich in history, with numerous museums, parks, and vibrant bazaars.

Ideal No. of Days: 3-4 days

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹20,000 - ₹30,000

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Opt for shared taxis or buses for local travel.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget hotels or hostels.
• Activities: Visit free attractions like parks and public squares, and shop at local markets for affordable souvenirs.

Food Recommendations:

• Street Food: Savour Plov (Uzbek pilaf), Shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and Samarkand non (traditional bread). These dishes are widely available and reasonably priced.

10. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Why Go?

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, is known for its historical sites, including the Royal Palace and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The city offers a rich cultural experience and a vibrant nightlife.

Ideal No. of Days: 4-5 days

Average Round Trip Flight Costs: ₹18,000 - ₹28,000

Budget Tips:

• Transport: Use tuk-tuks for inexpensive travel within the city.
• Accommodations: Stay in budget accommodations near the riverside.
• Activities: Explore local markets for affordable shopping and dining options.

Food Recommendations:

• Street Food: Enjoy dishes like Amok Trey (fish curry), Bai Sach Chrouk (pork with rice), and Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles) from street vendors or local eateries for a budget-friendly taste of Cambodian cuisine.

Conclusion

These budget-friendly destinations offer rich cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. Start your journey from Delhi Airport and explore the world without breaking the bank. Happy travels!