How I Live Comfortably in India on Just $20 a Day
India is a dream destination for budget travelers. From vibrant cities to serene beaches and breathtaking mountain towns, it offers an unparalleled experience at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in many other countries. When I first arrived, I was amazed at how far my money stretched—and now, after months of traveling across the country, I’ve perfected the art of living comfortably on just $20 a day. Here’s how I do it.
1. Affordable Accommodation: Finding a Place to Stay for Under $5
India has a vast range of budget accommodation options, from guesthouses and hostels to homestays and couchsurfing. Here’s what works best for me:
Hostels & Guesthouses – A bed in a dorm room costs between $3-$6 per night in places like Rishikesh, Pushkar, and Hampi.
Homestays & Airbnb – Staying with locals can be both economical and culturally enriching. I’ve found great private rooms for $7-$10 a night.
Long-Term Rentals – In places like Goa or Dharamshala, renting a basic room for a month can cost as little as $100-$150, making long stays extremely budget-friendly.
2. Eating Well for Less Than $3 Per Meal
Indian food is not only delicious but also incredibly cheap if you eat like a local. Here’s my strategy:
Street Food – Samosas, dosas, parathas, and vada pavs cost as little as $0.50-$1 each and make for a filling meal.
Local Restaurants (Dhabas) – A full vegetarian thali (rice, roti, dal, vegetables, and curd) costs around $2 and is enough for a satisfying meal.
Cooking My Own Food – When I stay longer in one place, I buy fresh produce from markets and cook at home, cutting my food expenses to around $2 per day.
3. Getting Around on Pennies
India’s public transportation is extensive and incredibly cheap. I avoid costly taxis and use these instead:
Local Buses – A short ride costs between $0.15-$0.30, making them the most budget-friendly option.
Trains – Sleeper-class train tickets for long journeys cost as little as $3-$8.
Auto-Rickshaws & Shared Tuk-Tuks – Instead of taking a private tuk-tuk, I opt for shared ones that cost $0.20-$0.50 per ride.
Renting a Scooter – In beach towns like Goa, a scooter rental costs around $3-$5 per day, making it a fun and economical choice.
4. Free & Low-Cost Activities
India is rich in experiences that don’t require a lot of money. Some of my favorite activities include:
Exploring Temples & Historical Sites – Many temples and heritage sites have free or very low entry fees ($1-$5).
Hiking & Nature Walks – Places like Himachal Pradesh and Kerala offer stunning natural landscapes that can be explored for free.
Volunteering & Work Exchanges – Many hostels and farms offer free food and accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work.
Yoga & Meditation Centers – Many ashrams offer donation-based yoga and meditation sessions, allowing travelers to participate affordably.
5. Staying Connected for Just a Few Dollars a Month
A local SIM card with data costs me around $3 per month, which gives me unlimited calls and several gigabytes of data, making it easy to stay connected with friends and work remotely.
6. Managing Unexpected Costs & Emergencies
While $20 per day covers my daily expenses, I always set aside a little extra for emergencies or splurges. Having a buffer of $100-$200 in savings helps cover occasional travel upgrades or medical expenses.
Final Thoughts: Budget Travel Without Sacrificing Comfort
Living in India on $20 a day doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. By making smart choices—staying in budget-friendly accommodations, eating local food, using public transport, and enjoying free activities—I’ve been able to live well while experiencing everything this incredible country has to offer.
If you’ve been dreaming of long-term travel without breaking the bank, India is the perfect destination to stretch your budget while enjoying an enriching experience. Have you traveled to India on a budget? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
