5 Pocket-Friendly Holidays Abroad

When you travel abroad to other countries, you get a very different perspective on life. You can immerse yourself in their local culture and understand their way of life. It helps you puts things in perspective and helps you lead a balanced life. It is also a great way to unwind from your day to day activities.

Travelling should be part of everyone’s life. In fact, it is a good idea to expose children to traveling at a very young age.

Let’s take a look at a few affordable international trips near India that are pocket-friendly.

1) Sri Lanka

Being very close to the Southern part of India, it is a short hop from Chennai. Sri Lanka has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites that you can visit. From rainforests to unspoiled beaches to tea plantations, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer for a budget-friendly traveler. There are many Buddhist temples as well if you want to explore the spiritual route.

One activity that should not be missed, is the hike up to Horton Plains. It is a gentle hike that kids as young as five can attempt. It is about an hour away from Nuwara Eliya and offers jaw-dropping views of the valley below.

Best time to visit: December to March is the best time to visit.

Present exchange rate: 1 INR = 2.35 LKR

2) Bhutan

With the Himalayas as a backdrop, Bhutan has managed to hold a unique charm and magic for any traveller. It boasts of distinctive architecture and very traditional culture that is not very exposed to other parts of the world. Paro International airport is the world’s most dangerous international airport because of the terrain. Bhutan offers a wide range of activities for the adrenaline junkie, mountain biking, rafting, high altitude trekking and rock climbing to name a few.

Best time to visit: March to May and later in the year from September to November. Spring would be the best time to catch alpine flora and Autumn for spectacular Himalayan mountain views. Bhutan is a hikers’ paradise – there are many treks to choose from based on the intensity of the hike.    

Present exchange rate: 1 INR = 1 BTN

3) Thailand

If beaches are your calling then Thailand has a lot to offer. Krabi would be a cheaper destination than Phuket or Koh Samui. Krabi has roughly the same landscape as these two popular destinations. Revel in the emerald green ocean with limestone cliffs as a backdrop. Activities to do here vary from water sports to snorkeling and diving trips to see the spectacular underwater world. You can also explore the various food markets that offer quick bites to eat.

Best time to visit: November to May would be cooler and so ideal to visit.

Present exchange rate: 1 INR = 0.51 THB

4) Malaysia

Another cheap international destination that offers great food and beach is Malaysia. From Indian curries to Chinese fares and traditional Malay food you will be spoilt for choice. In Malaysia, a unique attraction is catching a glimpse of bioluminescent fungi lighting up the night river and forest. This should be in all travelers’ bucket list. It is indeed a surreal experience to see the eerie green glow of the Mycena Manipularis mushrooms in the forests.

Best time to visit: December to February is the best time to visit.

Present exchange rate: 1 INR = 0.65 MYR

5) Singapore

This small island is a huge hit for families with children. Singapore has great shopping for the shopaholics. It is also home to Universal Studios and boasts some of the best hair-raising rides and shows. The S.E.A Aquarium which is right next to Universal Studios is home to about 800 species of fish. It is indeed a fun and entertaining experience for the whole family. Gardens by the bay – the newest addition in Singapore! The Gardens attracts a huge chunk of tourists every year. It is a huge nature park that is spread over 250 acres of land. Apart from this, the zoo and night safari also adds to the lists of attractions that are well liked by children and adults.

Best time to visit: December to February is the best time to visit.

Present exchange rate: 1 INR = 0.021 SGD

India is very close to a lot of Asian countries that offer its visitors unparalleled experiences – be it Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia or Dubai. Most of these destinations can be done on a shoestring budget if you are capable of enduring rugged conditions. You may not find luxury soaps and 200 thread count sheets or soft Egyptian towels at budget prices but you might get a shared accommodation in a lodge. A lodge that will provide decent space to crash where you meet fellow backpackers who might share interesting stories in the evening over a cuppa joe or a hot bowl of soup.

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