Today, I’m thrilled to share a glimpse of my own bucket list with you. Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to pack your bags, whip up some homemade snacks, and pack your favorite outfits. I’ve put together the ultimate guide to travel top countries for just ₹50,000/50K. While we might not be able to buy the latest iPhone with that budget, we can certainly explore some of the most amazing corners of our beautiful planet. be with me, we are going be there together, let’s goo.
Can We Really Travel Internationally for JUST ₹50,000?
Before we dive into our travel destinations, let me assure you that yes, you can DEFINITELY travel internationally on a budget of ₹50,000. Still skeptical? Don’t worry, let’s explore this a bit more deeply.
There are numerous ways to explore budget-friendly countries without breaking the bank, but it’s crucial to understand what you’re actually going to experience in these destinations. While you could technically reach Europe with this amount, it wouldn’t make much sense to arrive in a tourist hotspot with an empty wallet. Travel isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about making the most of your experience, and I’m committed to ensuring you do just that.
You might wonder why some countries offer such affordable travel options. There are several factors at play, but let’s focus on the key aspects relevant to travelers. Many of these countries want to attract tourists to experience their unique culture, which is a sustainable way to promote global tourism. It largely depends on the tourism board’s strategy to make travel seem more affordable.
Here’s how these countries manage to keep costs low:
Visa Fees: Many countries have reduced their visa fees, and some even offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival options. This can make a significant difference. If you’ve ever applied for a visa, you’ll understand the impact of reduced fees.
Check out this comprehensive list of visa-free countries to find your ideal destination: [Zaara’s post on Visa-Free Countries]
Local Transportation: Some countries offer inexpensive or even free intercity transportation, making travel within the country more affordable. For instance, places like Thailand and India have low-cost options for local travel.
Cheap Airlines: Affordable airlines help both countries and travelers. High luggage fees and expensive flights can disrupt plans, but several airlines offer low-cost options. For example, AirAsia and VietJet provide budget-friendly flights to countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
I am assuming, now you have a basic idea about what makes it cheaper for you and how does it works, so let’s move the most awaited and interesting part of the post.
Countries You Can Travel Under JUST 50K
Great! Now that we’ve covered how traveling internationally on a budget is possible, let’s dive into the exciting part—discovering which countries you can travel to within 50K. And remember, this isn’t just a 1- or 2-day trip, we’re talking about a full 4-5 days, and possibly up to a week.
While many countries offer budget-friendly travel options, I’ve selected a few of the best destinations where you can experience incredible adventures without breaking the bank. Here’s the list:
1. Vietnam
2. Nepal
3. Indonesia (Bali)
These destinations are some of the most beautiful and budget-friendly places you can visit. In this post, we’ll explore what makes these countries ideal for a memorable and affordable trip. So, grab a hot chai and some cookies, and get ready for an exciting journey ahead!
1. Vietnam
There’s a reason Vietnam tops this list, and you’ll see why shortly. Vietnam has long been known for its sustainable and hassle-free travel options, aligning with the factors that make certain countries more affordable to explore.
But let’s skip the deep dive and jump straight into what makes Vietnam a must-visit destination.
Exploring Vietnam: A Treasure Trove of Culture, Nature, and Adventure
Vietnam, a gem of Southeast Asia, boasts stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From bustling cities to serene countryside, Vietnam offers an array of experiences for every traveler. Here’s a glimpse into what this incredible country has to offer.
Hanoi: The Cultural Heart
Every journey has a starting point, and Hanoi is where your exploration of Vietnam should begin. Known for its vibrant street food scene and charming islands, Hanoi invites you to dive into its rich culture. Take time to savor Vietnam’s best street food and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Old Quarter: Stroll through the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where each street specializes in a different trade, from silk to silver. The area is alive with motorbikes, street vendors, and historic architecture.
Hoan Kiem Lake: A tranquil retreat in the city’s heart, perfect for a morning walk or evening relaxation. Don’t miss the picturesque red Huc Bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple.
Hue: The Imperial City
Hue, often called the Imperial City, is rich in history and culture. Once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia in the 19th and 20th centuries, Hue offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past despite the damage it suffered during the American War. The city’s historic sites, including ancient pagodas and royal tombs, provide a royal and ancient experience amid the island and bays of Vietnam.
Imperial Citadel: Explore the expansive grounds of the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Thien Mu Pagoda: Visit this iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River, one of the oldest religious sites in Vietnam.
Royal Tombs: Discover the elaborate tombs of the Nguyen emperors, such as the tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, each showcasing unique architectural styles.
Ho Chi Minh City: The Dynamic Metropolis
Ho Chi Minh City, with its bustling markets and vibrant street food scene, is another must-visit destination in Vietnam. Known for its lively atmosphere and local culture, HCMC offers a range of experiences, from shopping for souvenirs to sampling authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Allocate at least a full day to explore the city and pick up some unique souvenirs. Be cautious with budget accommodations; look for homestays and budget options, I will bring a post on the budget stays in Vietnam soon.
Ben Thanh Market: Dive into the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy street food.
War Remnants Museum: Gain insight into the Vietnam War through powerful exhibits and photographs.
Skydeck: Take in panoramic views of the city from the Saigon Skydeck at the Bitexco Financial Tower.
Remember folks, these places of Vietnam is designed in a way so that you can explore the country with the mentioned budget of 50K. If you are making any changes in your plan or shifting any thing, then it may happen that you’ll need more budget. Altough, you will find a detailed and comprehensive itinerary plan for each country in the last.
2. Nepal: Your Gateway to Himalayan Adventure
Nepal might not be the most renowned tourist destination, but it’s a treasure trove for those seeking adventure and unique experiences. While it’s famous for its towering peaks, including Mount Everest, Nepal offers so much more. If you’re looking for vibrant nightlife and parties, places like Vietnam or Thailand might be better suited for you. However, if you’re intrigued by breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural countries, Nepal is a must-visit one can travel with the budget of 50K. Let’s explore the wonders of this majestic country nestled in the Himalayas.
Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a captivating blend of historical and natural beauty. It’s affordable and accessible, with minimal hassle in terms of permits and legal procedures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an adventure lover, Kathmandu has something for everyone. Here’s what you need to explore in Kathmandu:
Durbar Square
Durbar Square, located in the heart of Kathmandu, is an architectural marvel featuring palaces, courtyards, and temples that reflect Nepal’s rich heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vibrant center of Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural life.
Pashupatinathji Temple
The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated on the banks of the Bagmati River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its architectural splendor, spiritual significance, and vibrant rituals, attracting devotees and tourists from around the globe.
Take a Hike
For adventure enthusiasts, Kathmandu offers incredible hiking opportunities. You can join group hikes or embark on solo adventures, though the latter is not always recommended. Here are some top hikes in and around Kathmandu:
I feel that, I’ve covered so much about the Kathmandu and as we have other places to explore, but before move there, remember to try some Nepali local foods in the streets of Kathmandu, especially Momos!
Pokhara
Pokhara is a stunning town in Nepal renowned for its natural beauty and serene boat rides. After exploring Kathmandu, make sure to dedicate at least a day to discover Pokhara. For Indian visitors, Pokhara offers an added advantage: with no visa or extensive legal procedures required, you can simply present your Aadhar Card or any official government ID to enter Nepal. Additionally, you’ll find that your currency goes further here, making for an affordable experience.
Phewa Lake
Done with boat ride at Phewa lake? It’s time to try some Momos and delicious Nepali food out there and after that, get back to you hotel room, as you’ll need some rest and refreshment to get ready for our next adventure in Nepal.
Annapurna Circuit
Ah, the Annapurna mountains—truly captivating! I hope there are fellow travelers as excited as I am about this trek. The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most celebrated and beloved trekking experiences among hikers and adventure seekers. Note that this trek is distinct from the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. The Annapurna Circuit is longer and more challenging, typically taking between 7 to 12 days to complete.
The Annapurna Circuit offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views on Earth. Trekkers are treated to panoramic vistas of the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and several other peaks soaring over 7,000 meters.
More than just a trek, the Annapurna Circuit is a journey through diverse and stunning landscapes. It combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge, making it a must-do for any dedicated trekker or adventure enthusiast.
3. Bali: Your Ultimate Escape to Paradise
Bali is truly a place like no other—its beauty is both astonishing and surreal. From breathtaking waterfalls and cultural temples to lush rice fields, vibrant cafes, and bustling art markets, Bali offers a unique experience that captivates every visitor. A trip to Bali is a must at least once in a lifetime, as it promises unforgettable memories. What makes Bali even more appealing is that, despite its stunning scenery, it is surprisingly affordable to visit. Remember our goal of exploring within 50K? Let’s discover Bali together…
If you’re a couple planning a budget-friendly honeymoon to Bali, check out this comprehensive guide [Bali’s article link here] for all the details you need to plan your perfect getaway.
Ubud: Cultural Hub of Bali:
So, I am assuming that you’ll stay here for next 4-7 days, and it’s a best plan to keep 2-3 destinations to explore around rather than exploring everything, as it’s not really possible and if you want to that, surely you can, but travel should be in slow pace and by giving enough time to yourselve to explore anywhere you go properly. Let’s start our plan with Ubud, Bali’s cultural capital
Ubud is famous for its temples and art markets, and so much more. Immerse yourself in the essence of Bali as you explore ancient temples, majestic palaces, and verdant landscapes that epitomize its rich heritage
Pura Taman Sarawati
Pura Taman Sarawati is one of the stunning and marvellous place in Ubud. Also known as Ubud’s Water Palace. This beautiful temple with the main attraction being the stunning lotus pond, you will ever found in Ubud. Its not allowed to enter inside the temple itselt, its the lotus pond that makes it worth coming for. After you are done admiring this beautiful spot, head over a bit down the road to stop by at the Ubud Palace, one more beautiful sight in Ubud’s centre.
Location: Both locations are in Ubud’s city centre, check the exact location for Pura Taman Saraswati and Ubud Palace here.
Entry Fee: Both locations are free to enter
Ubud’s Art Market
Ubud Art Market, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled in the heart of Ubud, Bali. This bustling market is renowned for its wide array of traditional Balinese handicrafts, artworks and souvenirs, making it a perfect spot for your honeymoon trip.
From the most beautiful colorful sarongs to wooden bowls, this market truly has something. However , keep in mind that this market does not have any fixed set of price, so it’s a golden chance to put your bargaining skills to a test. It would be absoultely lovely experience to shopping at the Ubud Art Market and have buy some amazing souvenirs and items that will forever remind you of your honeymoon in Bali.
Location: The Ubud Art Market cannot missed as its located right in Ubud’s centre, still, here is the exact location.
Opening Hours: The Ubud Market is open daily around 9 am to 6 pm.
Now, let’s move on to another destination in Bali. However, before we do, keep in mind that I’m focusing on highlighting only the most beautiful and must-visit places. Including every possible spot isn’t feasible. You can customize your itinerary as you see fit. Additionally, I’ve provided a full itinerary plan for each country at the end. Let’s continue exploring the next paradise.
Spend a Day at the Beaches of Canggu:
Now, its time to say goodbye to Ubud with tons of memories and experience you lived here and time to change your direction toward Canggu.
Once you are all set and settle in your resort in Canggu, I will highly recommened you to avoid complementry breakfast in your resort and instead try this places, for what Canggu is famous:
Rise & Shine Cafe:
There are lots of cafes in Bali, but why this one? If you have to decid one place to visit for breakfast then choose, Rise & Shine. This place knows how to do breakfast in Canggu. Some of the best dishes of this cafe are the eggs benedict and nutella rolls. You should try at least for one breakfast here.
Go Surfing
Finished your breakfast, Now you seems to start your Beach Day in Bali, let’s start it with surfing. Beside the cafe scene Canggu is known as surfers paradise. I am the one who will always be ready when its learn and do surfing on waves, its one of the important thing of my Bali bucket list. If you are like me, then make your journey memorable by signing up for a surfing class. What better way to spent your morning then to try ride the waves. After tried surfing here, you can move the other nearest beatches like Echo and Berawa beach.
Rice Fields in Canggu:
The rice fields in Canggu are a picturesque sight, characterized by their vibrant green terraces that stretch across the landscape. The fields are meticulously maintained by local farmers, who use traditional techniques passed down through generations. Walking or cycling through these fields allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility, offering a stark contrast to the more developed areas of Bali.
Some tours offer guided walks through the rice fields, providing insights into the local farming practices, the Subak irrigation system, and the daily life of the farmers. These tours often include visits to local villages and temples, enriching the cultural experience.
So, this is just a glimpse into the cultural and natural aspects of Bali. With that said, we have explored all three countries that offer an incredible travel experience within a budget of 50K. I hope you enjoyed this overview. Now, let’s delve into some additional insights and essential tips you should know before planning your trip to any of these three destinations.
What’s the Best Season to Visit These 3 Countries:
We’ve covered a lot of details, and I appreciate your patience. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it’s crucial to plan your visit during the best season for each country. Visiting at the wrong time can significantly impact your travel experience. Let’s break down the ideal times to visit each destination.
Vietnam:
Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and climates make it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is generally from November to April. This period covers the optimal weather conditions across different regions:
- Northern Vietnam: Enjoy mild temperatures and less rain.
- Central Vietnam: Avoid the heavy rains of the typhoon season.
- Southern Vietnam: Experience dry and warm conditions.
Plan your trip within this timeframe to make the most of your visit to Vietnam.
Nepal
Nepal has distinct seasons, and the best time to visit depends on the activities you’re interested in, particularly trekking. The ideal time to visit Nepal is from March to November, where the weathe ris clear and you can easily see the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain ranges with your eyes. However if you want to experience Nepal in particular season, then following are the best months to do,
Winter (December to February)
- Best Time: December to February (for lower altitude treks)
- Why: Although colder, winter offers clear skies and fewer crowds. Suitable for lower altitude treks like the Annapurna Base Camp.
Monsoon (June to August)
- Best Time: June to August (for cultural tours)
- Why: Heavy rainfall makes trekking challenging, but this is a good time for cultural tours in the Kathmandu Valley.
Bali
Bali enjoys a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season, making it a year-round destination with some ideal periods for visiting.
Dry Season (April to October)
- Best Time: May to September
- Why: These months offer sunny weather, perfect for beach activities, surfing, and outdoor adventures. The humidity is lower, making it comfortable for sightseeing and exploring temples and rice terraces.
Wet Season (November to March)
- Best Time: November to March (for fewer crowds and lower prices)
- Why: Although it rains, the showers are usually short and heavy, followed by sunshine. This is a good time to enjoy a quieter Bali with lush green landscapes.
Ultimate 5 Days Itinerary Plan for make more Easier:
Here is the detailed itinerary plan covering all these 3 countries and with eveyrthing to do and explore around there. You can also customized this in your travel style and experiences you want to do.
| Day | Vietnam | Nepal | Bali |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hanoi: Explore Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Water Puppet Show | Kathmandu: Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa | Ubud: Visit Sacred Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, Pura Tama Saraswati |
| 2 | Hanoi -> Halong Bay: Halong Bay cruise, explore caves, kayaking, visit floating villages | Kathmandu -> Pokhara: Drive/flight to Pokhara, boating on Phewa Lake, visit Tal Barahi Temple | Ubud: Explore Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), Ubud City Centre, Art Market |
| 3 | Halong Bay -> Hanoi -> Hoi An: Morning cruise, return to Hanoi, flight to Da Nang, transfer to Hoi An | Pokhara: Sunrise at Sarangkot, visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, World Peace Pagoda | Canggu: Explore Beaches in Canggu, Cafes in Canggu, Rice Fields in Canggu |
| 4 | Hoi An: Visit Ancient Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Night Market | Pokhara -> Kathmandu: Return to Kathmandu, explore Thamel, Garden of Dreams | Seminyak: Day trip to Tanah Lot Temple, explore Canggu, Echo Beach |
| 5 | Hoi An -> Da Nang: My Son Sanctuary, Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, beach time | Annapurna Treks : Experience, one of the Annpurna Circuiut ( AC ) or Annapunra Base Camp ( ABC ) | Seminyak: Visit Uluwatu Temple, relax at Jimbaran Beach, seafood dinner |
Bonus Tips to Make your trip more Awesome and Easier:
Finally, we have a favorite section that many of our readers appreciate. Here are some fantastic tips to make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free, helping you explore like a local and fully enjoy your adventure.
Book Your Flight Tickets This Way
To get the best deals on international flights, follow these tips to save money and avoid extra charges:
Use Credit Cards for Points and Rewards: Booking with a credit card can earn you points and rewards, which might make your flight cheaper or offer additional benefits.
Consider Nearby Airports: Booking flights from smaller or nearby airports rather than major hubs can sometimes be cheaper.
Use Flight Comparison Sites: Websites like Skyscanner can help you find discounts and early bird offers on flights.
If you’re a frequent flyer and want to save more, check out our detailed guide on saving money and time on flight bookings in our Zaara’s Flight Booking Tips article.
Stay in Homestays and Local Areas
For a budget-friendly stay, consider homestays or accommodations in local areas rather than expensive hotels in central or upscale districts. This approach not only saves money but also offers a more authentic experience. Booking your stay in advance can also secure better rates and discounts.
Carry Some Physical Cash
Not all countries may accept online payments like UPI or credit/debit cards everywhere. Having cash on hand ensures you’re not caught off guard if you encounter payment issues. While Nepal is generally affordable and doesn’t require much cash, Bali and Vietnam may charge fees for ATM withdrawals and may not have easily accessible ATMs. Keeping a good amount of cash on you can prevent unexpected hassles and allow you to focus more on enjoying your trip.
Conclusion:
So folks, this is all about your ultimate guide to travel some of the world’s most affordable countries! These three incredible countries offer you the chance to have unforgettable travel experiences in your 50K budget and without breaking the bank.
Let me know in the comments which destination you’re planning to visit this year, and feel free to ask any additional questions you might have. I’ll be back soon with another travel-packed article. Until then, happy travels!
