When people ask about the cost of travel India, the total amount you spend on getting around, staying put, eating well, and seeing sights across the country. Also known as India trip expenses, it’s not just about flights and hotels—it’s everything from street food stalls to Himalayan treks, and whether you need a guide or can wing it. The truth? You can travel India for as little as $25 a day or spend $300+ if you want luxury, but most travelers land somewhere in the middle—and that’s where the real value is.
The Indian visa cost, the official fee to enter India, especially for U.S. citizens. Also known as India e-Visa price, it’s one of the first things you’ll pay—around $80 for a tourist e-Visa in 2025. Then there’s transportation in India, how you move between cities and towns. Trains are cheap and iconic: a 12-hour AC sleeper ticket might cost $15. A local auto-rickshaw ride? Under $2. Uber works in big cities like Goa and Delhi, but outside those areas, you’ll rely on local drivers, shared jeeps, or buses—all way below Western prices.
Food is where India shines for budget travelers. A plate of dal-chawal from a street vendor? $1. A decent restaurant meal with beer? $5-$8. Even fancy seafood in Kerala or thalis in Rajasthan rarely break $15. But don’t forget vaccinations for India, the shots you actually need before you go. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are the basics—total cost under $100 if you plan ahead. Skip the tourist traps that push unnecessary shots. And if you’re trekking? A India trekking guides, local experts who handle permits, safety, and cultural norms on trails like Roopkund or Kedarkantha. Also known as trek in India helpers, they’re not optional on remote routes. Expect to pay $30-$60 a day for a good guide, but it’s cheaper than a rescue mission.
Accommodation varies wildly. A basic guesthouse in Rishikesh or Munnar? $8-$12 a night. A mid-range hotel with AC and hot water? $25-$40. Luxury jungle camps? Those start at $150 and go up fast. But most travelers find that spending a little more on clean, safe lodging saves money on illness, stress, and lost time. And speaking of health—safe food in India, how to eat without getting sick. Stick to busy stalls, bottled water, and food cooked fresh in front of you. Avoid raw salads and ice. It’s simple, and it works.
Don’t forget entry fees. The Taj Mahal, India’s most visited site. Also known as top tourist attraction India, charges $20 for foreigners. Other heritage sites like Hampi or Khajuraho run $10-$15. These add up, but they’re one-time costs. And if you’re planning to visit temples? Dress modestly, remove shoes, and don’t bring leather—most don’t charge, but rules vary by region.
There’s no single answer to the cost of travel India because it depends on how you travel. Backpackers? You’ll spend $300-$500 a month. Families? $800-$1,200. Luxury seekers? $3,000+. But no matter your style, India rewards smart planning. You don’t need to spend big to see the Himalayas, taste real curries, or sleep under stars in a jungle camp. The real cost isn’t money—it’s the time you take to learn the rhythm of the place. Below, you’ll find real stories from travelers who nailed their budget, avoided scams, and still saw everything they dreamed of.
