Where Indians can travel solo abroad under ₹50K

Budget-friendly destinations abroad for Indians this October
October is one of the best months for Indian travellers to plan budget-friendly solo trips abroad. The weather is pleasant in most destinations, airfares are reasonable, and accommodation is affordable. With a budget of under ₹50,000, it is possible to explore a wide range of countries, enjoy cultural experiences, and make the most of local food and transport options. Here are some international destinations where solo travellers can stretch their rupee this October.

Thailand
Thailand is now visa-free for Indians for up to 60 days, making it one of the easiest choices. Early flight bookings can cost between ₹13,000–20,000, while hostels in Bangkok or Chiang Mai are available for as little as ₹400–600 per night. Travellers can explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Wat Pho, floating markets, and street food, while Chiang Mai offers temples and night bazaars. Phuket and Krabi add beaches, diving, and island tours. Using the BTS metro, public buses, and Grab taxis helps keep travel expenses low.

Malaysia
Malaysia also offers visa-free entry for Indians for 30 days. Kuala Lumpur dazzles with the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and Chinatown’s food markets, while Penang’s George Town is known for its colonial architecture and street art. Langkawi offers white-sand beaches and duty-free shopping. Guesthouses in central areas like Bukit Bintang cost ₹1,000–1,500 per night, while hawker centres make food affordable. Local transport passes and Grab rides are budget-friendly. October is part of the monsoon season, so occasional showers can be expected.

Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a cost-effective destination, with flights from India starting at around ₹8,000. Guesthouses cost about ₹1,000 per night, and public transport is cheap. A traveller can begin in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth, and move to the Cultural Triangle with Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Caves. The train ride to Ella is famous for its tea plantations and waterfalls. Coastal Galle Fort adds history and charm. October is generally dry in the hill regions, making it a good time to visit.

Indonesia
Indonesia offers visas on arrival to Indians for about ₹2,500. Flights from India cost around ₹18,000, and homestays range from ₹1,000–1,500 per night. Bali’s attractions include Ubud’s rice terraces, Mount Batur hikes, and cultural temples such as Tanah Lot. For nightlife, Kuta and Seminyak are popular. Local warungs provide inexpensive meals like nasi goreng and satay. Renting scooters or using BlueBird taxis is a convenient way to get around.

Vietnam
Vietnam requires an eVisa costing US$25, but it still fits within a ₹50K budget. Flights are about ₹18,000, while dormitory stays in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City cost ₹600–800 per night. Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Halong Bay cruises, and the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An are popular attractions. In the south, the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi tunnels are worth exploring. Local transport is cheap, and street food such as pho and banh mi keeps meal costs low.

Cambodia
Cambodia issues eVisas or visas on arrival for around US$30. Hostels in Siem Reap start at about ₹1,000 per night. The main draw is the Angkor Wat sunrise and the Angkor Archaeological Park. Pub Street in Siem Reap offers lively food and nightlife options. For history, Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Killing Fields are significant stops. Tuk-tuks are cheap but fares should be agreed on beforehand.

Nepal
For Indians, Nepal is the most affordable option as no visa is required. Flights to Kathmandu cost ₹6,000–8,000, and guesthouses in Kathmandu or Pokhara are ₹800–1,200 per night. October is the best trekking season, with clear skies and mild weather in the hills. Travellers can explore Kathmandu’s Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Pokhara offers adventure sports, trekking routes to Annapurna, and peaceful lakeside cafés.