Dreaming of an international holiday but worried that travelling abroad will cost several lakhs? The good news is that you don’t always need a huge travel budget to explore another country. With the right destination, early flight bookings, affordable accommodation and a well-planned itinerary, you can enjoy an unforgettable international trip for around ₹1 lakh per person.
Several countries near India offer excellent value for money. From the Himalayan landscapes of Nepal and Bhutan to the beaches of Sri Lanka and Thailand, the historic streets of Vietnam and the tropical beauty of Bali, there are plenty of destinations to consider.
In this guide, we explore the best countries to visit under ₹1 lakh from India, including approximate budgets, places to visit, things to do, ideal trip duration and tips for keeping your international holiday within budget.
Can You Really Travel Internationally Under ₹1 Lakh?
Yes, it is possible to plan an international holiday around ₹1 lakh per person. However, your final cost depends on several factors, including your departure city in India, airfare, travel dates, hotel category, local transportation, sightseeing and activities.
For example, a traveller departing from a major airport such as Delhi or Mumbai may find more flight options, while travellers from other cities may need to account for the cost of reaching an international airport.
The easiest way to stay within your budget is to choose a destination where accommodation, food and local transportation are affordable and where flights from India are reasonably priced.
Quick Comparison: Best Countries Under ₹1 Lakh
| Country | Approx. Budget | Recommended Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal | ₹30,000–₹60,000 | 5–7 Days | Mountains, Culture & Adventure |
| Sri Lanka | ₹40,000–₹70,000 | 5–7 Days | Beaches, Nature & Wildlife |
| Vietnam | ₹55,000–₹90,000 | 6–8 Days | Food, Culture & Sightseeing |
| Thailand | ₹55,000–₹90,000 | 5–7 Days | Beaches, Shopping & Entertainment |
| Bhutan | ₹55,000–₹85,000 | 4–6 Days | Mountains, Culture & Peace |
| Malaysia | ₹60,000–₹95,000 | 5–7 Days | City Life, Food & Nature |
| Bali, Indonesia | ₹65,000–₹1,00,000 | 5–7 Days | Honeymoon, Beaches & Romance |
| Cambodia | ₹60,000–₹90,000 | 5–7 Days | History, Temples & Culture |
Note: The budgets mentioned in this article are approximate planning estimates for budget-conscious travellers. Actual prices can change based on flight fares, travel dates, hotel category, exchange rates, activities and departure city.
1. Nepal – Best Budget International Destination from India
If your main goal is to experience an international destination without spending a large amount of money, Nepal should be one of the first countries you consider.
Located close to India, Nepal offers spectacular Himalayan landscapes, ancient temples, vibrant local markets and adventure activities. It is particularly suitable for travellers who want to experience an international trip without spending their entire budget on flights.
Estimated Cost for Nepal
₹30,000–₹60,000 per person for 5–7 days
Best Places to Visit in Nepal
- Kathmandu
- Pokhara
- Nagarkot
- Chitwan
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Phewa Lake
Things to Do in Nepal
- Explore Kathmandu’s historic temples and squares
- Enjoy Himalayan views from Nagarkot
- Visit Phewa Lake in Pokhara
- Experience local Nepalese cuisine
- Go trekking or hiking
- Explore traditional markets
- Visit ancient Buddhist and Hindu sites
Why Choose Nepal?
Nepal is particularly attractive for budget travellers because you can spend less on accommodation, food and local transportation compared with many other international destinations.
Best for: Backpackers, families, adventure lovers, couples and first-time international travellers.
2. Sri Lanka – Best for Beaches, Nature and Wildlife
Sri Lanka is one of the most diverse destinations you can visit on a relatively modest budget. Despite its small size, the country offers beaches, mountains, wildlife, tea plantations, historic cities and cultural attractions.
A well-planned Sri Lanka itinerary can combine several different experiences without requiring expensive internal flights.
Estimated Cost for Sri Lanka
₹40,000–₹70,000 per person for 5–7 days
Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
- Colombo
- Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
- Ella
- Galle
- Bentota
- Sigiriya
Things to Do in Sri Lanka
- Take a scenic train journey
- Explore tea plantations
- Relax on tropical beaches
- Visit ancient temples
- Explore Galle Fort
- Go on a wildlife safari
- Try traditional Sri Lankan food
Why Choose Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is ideal for travellers who want variety. You can spend a few days exploring cultural attractions before heading towards the mountains or beaches.
Best for: Families, couples, honeymooners, nature lovers and travellers looking for a relaxed holiday.
3. Vietnam – Best Overall Value for Money
Vietnam is one of the best choices for travellers who want to experience a lot within a limited budget. The country offers fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, excellent food, beaches and vibrant cities.
One of the biggest advantages of Vietnam is the relatively affordable cost of food, accommodation and local transportation.
Estimated Cost for Vietnam
₹55,000–₹90,000 per person for 6–8 days
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay
- Da Nang
- Hoi An
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Ninh Binh
Things to Do in Vietnam
- Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter
- Take a cruise through Ha Long Bay
- Explore the historic town of Hoi An
- Relax at Da Nang’s beaches
- Explore Ninh Binh’s natural landscapes
- Try authentic Vietnamese street food
- Visit historical attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
Why Choose Vietnam?
Vietnam provides an excellent balance of sightseeing, culture, food and nature. It is a particularly good option if you want an international trip that feels packed with experiences without constantly worrying about expenses.
Best for: Couples, young travellers, food lovers, photographers, families and first-time Southeast Asia travellers.
4. Thailand – Best for Beaches, Shopping and Entertainment
Thailand is a favourite among Indian travellers because it offers beautiful beaches, exciting cities, shopping, nightlife, temples and excellent food.
Depending on your itinerary, you can focus on Bangkok and Pattaya, explore the beaches of Phuket and Krabi, or combine a city break with a relaxing island holiday.
Estimated Cost for Thailand
₹55,000–₹90,000 per person for 5–7 days
Best Places to Visit in Thailand
- Bangkok
- Pattaya
- Phuket
- Krabi
- Chiang Mai
Things to Do in Thailand
- Explore Bangkok’s attractions
- Visit Buddhist temples
- Relax on tropical beaches
- Go island hopping
- Explore floating and local markets
- Enjoy authentic Thai food
- Shop for souvenirs and local products
Why Choose Thailand?
Thailand works particularly well for travellers who want a mixture of relaxation and entertainment. It is also suitable for couples, groups of friends and honeymooners.
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, friends, beach lovers and travellers looking for entertainment.
5. Bhutan – Best for Mountains, Culture and Peace
Bhutan offers a completely different experience from busy Southeast Asian destinations. If you prefer mountains, monasteries, peaceful landscapes and traditional culture, Bhutan deserves a place on your list.
The country is known for its beautiful Himalayan scenery and unique cultural experiences.
Estimated Cost for Bhutan
₹55,000–₹85,000 per person for 4–6 days
Best Places to Visit in Bhutan
- Paro
- Thimphu
- Punakha
- Dochula Pass
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Things to Do in Bhutan
- Visit Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- Explore Thimphu
- Enjoy Himalayan scenery
- Visit traditional monasteries
- Experience Bhutanese culture
- Explore local markets
Why Choose Bhutan?
Bhutan is a great choice for travellers who want to disconnect from busy city life and spend time surrounded by mountains and nature.
Best for: Families, couples, nature lovers, photographers and peaceful getaways.
6. Malaysia – Best for Cities, Food and Nature
Malaysia is an excellent destination if you want a combination of modern cities, shopping, food, beaches and nature.
Kuala Lumpur provides a modern city experience, while destinations such as Langkawi and Penang allow you to explore beaches, culture and local cuisine.
Estimated Cost for Malaysia
₹60,000–₹95,000 per person for 5–7 days
Best Places to Visit in Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur
- Langkawi
- Penang
- Genting Highlands
- Malacca
Things to Do in Malaysia
- Visit the Petronas Twin Towers
- Explore Kuala Lumpur
- Relax on Langkawi’s beaches
- Explore Penang’s food scene
- Visit Genting Highlands
- Explore historic Malacca
- Enjoy Malaysian street food
Best for: Families, couples, food lovers, shoppers and travellers who enjoy cities and nature.
7. Bali, Indonesia – Best for Honeymoon and Romantic Holidays
Bali is one of the most popular international destinations for Indian couples. Its beaches, temples, waterfalls, rice terraces and romantic resorts make it particularly attractive for honeymooners.
Although Bali can become expensive if you choose luxury resorts and private tours, careful planning can bring a 5–7 day trip close to the ₹1 lakh mark per person.
Estimated Cost for Bali
₹65,000–₹1,00,000 per person for 5–7 days
Best Places to Visit in Bali
- Ubud
- Seminyak
- Kuta
- Nusa Dua
- Canggu
- Nusa Penida
Things to Do in Bali
- Visit beautiful Balinese temples
- Explore the rice terraces of Ubud
- Relax on tropical beaches
- Visit waterfalls
- Experience Balinese culture
- Take a trip to Nusa Penida
- Enjoy a romantic sunset
Why Choose Bali?
Bali is particularly attractive for couples because you can combine beaches, nature, adventure, culture and romantic experiences in one trip.
Best for: Honeymooners, couples, beach lovers, photographers and romantic getaways.
8. Cambodia – Best for History and Ancient Temples
Cambodia is an excellent option for travellers who are interested in history, architecture and culture. The country is home to Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most famous temple complexes.
Beyond its temples, Cambodia also offers local markets, traditional food and interesting cities.
Estimated Cost for Cambodia
₹60,000–₹90,000 per person for 5–7 days
Best Places to Visit in Cambodia
- Siem Reap
- Angkor Wat
- Phnom Penh
- Kampot
Things to Do in Cambodia
- Explore Angkor Wat
- Visit ancient temples
- Explore Siem Reap
- Visit local markets
- Try traditional Cambodian cuisine
- Explore Phnom Penh
Best for: History lovers, photographers, backpackers and culture-focused travellers.
How Much Should You Budget for an International Trip Under ₹1 Lakh?
Planning your expenses before booking your holiday is one of the best ways to avoid exceeding your budget. Here’s an example of how you could divide a ₹1 lakh budget.
Flights – ₹15,000 to ₹35,000
Flights can take up a significant portion of your international travel budget. The price depends on your departure city, destination, airline, travel dates and how early you book.
Flexible travel dates can make a major difference. If possible, compare flights across several dates before finalising your trip.
Accommodation – ₹10,000 to ₹25,000
Choosing clean and comfortable 3-star or reasonably priced 4-star hotels can help you balance comfort and cost.
You don’t necessarily need to stay in a luxury resort to have a great international holiday.
Food – ₹5,000 to ₹12,000
Food costs depend heavily on your destination and eating habits. Trying local restaurants and street food can often be much more affordable than eating at premium tourist restaurants every day.
Sightseeing and Activities – ₹5,000 to ₹15,000
Keep a separate budget for attractions, tours, entrance tickets and activities. Prioritise the experiences that are most important to you instead of trying to do everything.
Local Transportation – ₹3,000 to ₹10,000
Using public transport, trains, buses and shared transfers can significantly reduce your transportation expenses.
Visa, Travel Insurance and Miscellaneous Expenses
Always keep some money aside for visa or entry requirements, travel insurance, airport transfers, shopping and unexpected expenses.
How to Plan an International Trip Under ₹1 Lakh
1. Book Your Flights Early
Airfare can make or break your travel budget. Start monitoring prices early and compare different dates before booking.
2. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates
Travelling during peak holidays can increase flight and hotel prices. If your schedule allows, consider travelling during the shoulder season or less busy periods.
3. Choose the Right Hotel
Instead of automatically choosing the cheapest hotel, look for properties with good reviews, convenient locations and reasonable prices. A slightly more expensive hotel in a good location can sometimes save you money on transportation.
4. Plan Your Itinerary Before You Travel
A well-planned itinerary helps you understand how much time and money you will spend moving between destinations.
5. Use Public Transportation
Public transportation can be significantly cheaper than taxis and private transfers in many destinations.
6. Avoid Too Many Destinations
Trying to cover an entire country in five days can increase transportation costs and make your holiday stressful. Choose two or three key destinations and explore them properly.
7. Keep an Emergency Budget
Don’t spend your entire ₹1 lakh before the trip begins. Keep some money available for unexpected expenses, medical needs, changes in transportation or other emergencies.
Best Countries Under ₹1 Lakh Based on Travel Type
| Travel Type | Recommended Countries |
|---|---|
| Budget Travel | Nepal, Sri Lanka |
| Honeymoon | Bali, Thailand, Sri Lanka |
| Family Holiday | Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand |
| Adventure | Nepal, Bhutan, Vietnam |
| Beaches | Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bali |
| History & Culture | Cambodia, Vietnam, Nepal |
| Food | Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia |
| Peaceful Holiday | Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka |
Which Is the Best Country to Visit Under ₹1 Lakh?
There isn’t one destination that is perfect for everyone. The best country depends on your travel interests, budget and the kind of experience you want.
Nepal
Choose Nepal if you want mountains, adventure, culture and an affordable international holiday.
Sri Lanka
Choose Sri Lanka if you want beaches, wildlife, scenic landscapes and cultural experiences.
Vietnam
Choose Vietnam if you want excellent value for money, delicious food, history, culture and diverse landscapes.
Thailand
Choose Thailand if you want beaches, shopping, entertainment, island hopping and nightlife.
Bhutan
Choose Bhutan if you want mountains, peaceful surroundings, monasteries and a slower travel experience.
Malaysia
Choose Malaysia if you want modern cities, shopping, food, beaches and nature.
Bali
Choose Bali if you are planning a romantic holiday, honeymoon or beach getaway.
Cambodia
Choose Cambodia if you are interested in ancient temples, history and culture.
Best Time to Plan a Budget International Trip
The best time to travel depends on your chosen country. However, one of the most effective ways to save money is to avoid the destination’s busiest travel periods.
Flights and hotels can become considerably more expensive during school holidays, major festivals and peak tourist seasons.
If you have flexible dates, compare prices across different months before booking. Sometimes moving your trip by just a few days can make a noticeable difference to the total cost.
What Is Usually Not Included in a ₹1 Lakh Travel Budget?
When comparing international travel budgets, it’s important to understand what the quoted amount includes.
Some budget estimates may not include shopping, premium activities, luxury dining, travel insurance, visa fees, personal expenses or additional baggage.
Before booking any tour package, always check the inclusions and exclusions carefully. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses during your holiday.
Why Choose a Customized International Tour?
A fixed itinerary may not always be suitable for every traveller. A customized international tour allows you to choose your preferred destinations, hotel category, activities and trip duration according to your budget.
For example, a couple planning a honeymoon may prefer better hotels and romantic experiences, while a group of friends may want to spend more on activities and nightlife.
A customized itinerary can help you prioritise the things that matter most to you while keeping unnecessary expenses under control.
Final Thoughts
International travel doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive. With careful planning, a budget of ₹1 lakh can open the door to several exciting international destinations from India.
Nepal is an excellent option for budget-conscious travellers, while Sri Lanka offers a fantastic combination of beaches, nature and culture. Vietnam provides outstanding value and diverse experiences, Thailand is ideal for beaches and entertainment, and Bhutan is perfect for a peaceful mountain holiday.
Malaysia offers a combination of modern cities and nature, while Bali is particularly attractive for honeymooners and couples. Cambodia is a great choice for travellers who want to explore ancient temples and history.
The most important thing is to choose a destination that matches your interests and plan your expenses before booking.
With the right itinerary, smart flight bookings and sensible accommodation choices, your dream international holiday may be much more affordable than you think.
Planning an International Trip Under ₹1 Lakh?
Let TripMasters help you plan your next international holiday according to your budget, travel dates and preferred travel experience.
Whether you’re looking for a budget international tour, honeymoon package, family holiday, group trip or customized tour package, our travel experts can help you create an itinerary that fits your requirements.
Explore International Tour Packages →
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest country to visit from India under ₹1 lakh?
Nepal and Sri Lanka are among the most budget-friendly international destinations for Indian travellers. Depending on your departure city, travel dates and travel style, both can be planned well below ₹1 lakh.
Can I travel internationally for ₹1 lakh from India?
Yes. Several destinations can be planned within or around ₹1 lakh per person for approximately 5–8 days. Your final cost will depend on flights, accommodation, activities, transportation and travel dates.
Which country is best under ₹1 lakh for couples?
Bali, Thailand, Vietnam and Sri Lanka are excellent choices for couples. Bali is particularly popular for honeymoon holidays, while Thailand and Vietnam offer a wide range of experiences at different budgets.
Which country is best for a first international trip from India?
Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia are good options for first-time international travellers because they offer a wide range of tourist experiences and accommodation options.
Is ₹1 lakh enough for flights, hotels and sightseeing?
It can be, but there is no fixed cost for an international holiday. Your total expense depends on your departure city, airfare, travel dates, hotel category, activities and itinerary.
How can I reduce the cost of an international trip?
Book flights early, compare different travel dates, travel during less expensive periods, choose comfortable budget or mid-range hotels, use local transportation and avoid unnecessary private transfers and expensive activities.
Which international destination is best for a honeymoon under ₹1 lakh?
Bali, Thailand and Sri Lanka can be excellent honeymoon choices around the ₹1 lakh budget depending on the season, flights, hotel category and trip duration.
Can I get a customized international tour under ₹1 lakh?
Yes. A customized itinerary can be designed around your budget, preferred destinations, hotel category and activities. The final price will depend on the destination, travel dates and inclusions.