The festive season often sparks a desire for a memorable escape. An international trip during Diwali sounds exciting but also expensive. The good news is, with smart planning, you can explore incredible destinations without stretching your budget.
Vietnam: Incredible Value for Money
Vietnam
has quickly become a favourite for Indian travellers, and for good reason. The country offers a stunning mix of emerald-green rice paddies, bustling cities, and serene coastlines, all at a surprisingly low cost. A favourable exchange rate means your rupees go a long way here. Food, in particular, is both delicious and incredibly cheap, with a flavourful bowl of pho or a banh mi sandwich often costing less than ₹200. Accommodation is also very affordable, with clean and comfortable guesthouses available for ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night. While Indians require an e-visa, the process is straightforward and typically costs around ₹2,100 for a single-entry 30-day permit. A well-planned week-long trip can be comfortably managed within a budget of ₹40,000 to ₹75,000 per person, including flights.
Thailand: The Perennial Favourite
Thailand remains one of the most popular and accessible international destinations for Indians. Its combination of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and world-class shopping is hard to beat. For Diwali, the weather is typically pleasant as the country enters its cooler, dry season. One of the biggest draws is its affordability; a mid-range trip for 6-7 days can cost between ₹55,000 and ₹85,000, while backpackers can manage on even less. Street food is a highlight and a great way to save money, with daily food costs potentially staying under ₹800. As of late 2026, Indian passport holders can enter visa-free for short tourist stays, which removes a significant cost and planning step. With short-haul flights available from multiple Indian cities, it’s an easy choice for a festive break.
Sri Lanka: The Emerald Isle Next Door
Just a short flight away, Sri Lanka packs ancient temples, lush tea plantations, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife into one compact island. Its proximity, especially to South India, means flight costs are often lower than for other destinations. The country offers excellent value, making it a strong contender for a budget-friendly Diwali trip. A 5 to 7-day budget trip can range from ₹35,000 to ₹60,000 per person. Daily expenses are manageable, with accommodation in guesthouses ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per night and delicious local meals available for a few hundred rupees. Getting around using the scenic train network is also very economical. As an added incentive, Sri Lanka has offered visa-free entry for Indian tourists, simplifying the travel process.
Malaysia: A Vibrant Mix of Cultures
Malaysia offers a captivating blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, reflected in its incredible food scene and diverse architecture. From the modern skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the historic streets of Penang and the pristine rainforests of Borneo, there is something for every traveller. Malaysia is considered budget_friendly,
with a 7_day mid_range trip costing roughly ₹67,
to ₹1,
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