Have you been dreaming of getting your passport stamped this year and wondering which are the cheapest countries to visit from India in 2025? Well, we are here to bust the myth that travelling abroad is expensive and tell you about seven breathtaking countries you can explore without burning a hole in your pockets! These budget-friendly countries have everything your heart calls for - from diverse landscapes to gorgeous mountains, palm-fringed beaches to rich culture - and delicious cuisine that'll make you drool for more! 

Here are the seven cheapest countries to visit from India

1. Nepal: The Land of the Himalayan Trails and Ancient Temples

A country home to eight 8,000-metre Himalayan peaks, numerous ancient temples and monasteries, quaint alpine lakes, charming hill towns, and warm, friendly people - Nepal was marked as the 'most budget-friendly destination' by Lonely Planet in 2016. And it's still one of the cheapest countries to visit from India. Just an hour's flight from New Delhi can take you to Kathmandu - the capital city, where you can explore the mazelike alleys in Durbar Square, pray at the Boudhanath Temple, and hop around Thamel while savouring steamy momos.

If you are an adventurous soul, you can walk (or hike) an extra mile to chase the sunrise at Nagarkot or opt for the Everest Mountain Flight to take a closer look at Mt. Everest. Trust me when I say this, it'll be a memory to cherish for a lifetime! 

Expense:

• Flights: INR 7,000 - 12,000 (round trip from Delhi/Kolkata)

• Accommodation: INR 800 - 2,200 per night (budget homestays, Airbnbs or hostels)

• Food: INR 400 - 900 per day (local Nepali cuisine, street food as well as mid-range restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 600 - 1,500 (entry fees, local transport, and guided tours)

Ideal Trip Duration: 5 days covering the best locations.

• Kathmandu - Visit Swayambhunath Temple, Durbar Square, and enjoy the streets of Thamel

• Nagarkot - Watch a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest

• Chitwan National Park - Experience the jungle safari and canoe on the Rapti River

Best Time to Visit: March-April & September-October (pleasant weather), but Nepal is a year-round destination.

Best Food to Eat in Nepal:

• Momo – Delicious dumplings filled with meat or veggies, steamed or fried

• Dal Bhat – Classic lentil soup with rice, usually served with veggies, chutneys, and pickles

• Sel Roti – A crispy, ring-shaped rice doughnut, especially popular during festivals

• Gundruk – Fermented leafy greens, a bit tangy, and usually eaten as a side

• Chatamari – A rice crepe topped with meat or veggies

Visa Requirement for Indians: No visa is required.

• Any government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID) is sufficient for entry

• A passport is required if travelling by air (for immigration)

2. Sri Lanka: The Tropical Island with Lush Green Tea Gardens and Pristine Beaches

One of my favorite destinations, this tiny island in the Indian Ocean boasts some of the most stunning beaches and gorgeous tea estates stretching over rolling hills. A paradise for budget travellers seeking an international holiday, Sri Lanka has become popular among solo travellers, couples looking for an offbeat honeymoon, and families.

From the hustle and bustle of Colombo, the thousand-year-old caves of Dambulla, the beautiful train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, the wilderness of Yala, and the turquoise waters of Mirissa - Sri Lanka will surely make you fall in love with it.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 13,000 - 19,000 (round trip from Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore and Kochi)

• Accommodation: INR 900 - 2,800 per night (budget homestays, Airbnbs, and hotels)

• Food: INR 600 - 1,300 per day (local thalis, cafes and restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,500 - 3,500 (temples, train rides, safaris, etc)

Ideal Trip Duration: 7 to 10 days to explore major places.

• Colombo – Explore Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, and shop at Pettah Market

• Kandy – Visit the Temple of the Tooth, stroll around Kandy Lake, and enjoy the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

• Nuwara Eliya – Experience lush tea plantations, visit Gregory Lake, and see Ramboda Falls

• Mirissa – Relax on Mirissa Beach, go whale watching, and enjoy the sunset at Coconut Tree Hill

• Galle – Walk along Galle Fort, visit Unawatuna Beach, and explore the Japanese Peace Pagoda

Best Time to Visit: December to March (pleasant weather, minimal rainfall, and whale/dolphin spotting in the southwest).

Best Food to Eat in Sri Lanka:

• Rice and Curry – A big plate of rice with a variety of curries and sambols on the side

• Hoppers (Appa) – Crispy bowl-shaped pancakes, sometimes with an egg inside, or sweet fillings

• Kottu Roti – Stir-fried chopped roti mixed with veggies and meat

• Fish Ambul Thiyal – A sour fish curry made with tamarind, packed with flavour

• Pol Sambol – A spicy coconut relish that's usually served with rice and curry

Visa Requirement: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required.

• Must apply in advance

3. Thailand: Beyond Pad Thai Noodles and Full Moon Parties

Known as the 'backpacker's favorite destination' in Southeast Asia, Thailand has a life of its own! Whether it's the chaos of Bangkok or the silence around the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, the vibrant nightlife of Pattaya, the stunning beaches of Koh Samui or the temples of Chiang Mai - this spectacular country has something for every kind of traveller.

You can choose to go to the quintessential Bangkok. Phuket and Pattaya trail while planning a trip to Thailand, or go a little offbeat and explore the islands of Koh Lipe and Koh Lanta, diving deep to get closer to the marine life - it's your call!

Expense:

• Flights: INR 13,000 - 22,000 (round trip from major Indian cities)

• Accommodation: INR 900 - 3,200 per night (hostels, homestays, and budget hotels)

• Food: INR 600 - 1,600 per day (street food, night markets, local restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,200 - 3,500 (temples, island tours, adventure activities)

Ideal Trip Duration: 7 to 10 days for major places.

• Bangkok - Explore Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, Wat Pho and shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market

• Phuket - Visit Big Buddha and Wat Chalong, and watch the sunset at Promthep Cape

• Chiang Mai - Visit Doi Suthep Temple, Old City Temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang)

• Pattaya - Explore offbeat places like Koh Larn and Khao Sok

• Krabi and Koh Phi Phi - Enjoy the turquoise waters and go diving

Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather), April to September (good for the eastern Thai Peninsula).

Best Food to Eat in Thailand:

• Pad Thai – Stir-fried noodles with shrimp, peanuts, egg, and bean sprouts. It's the perfect balance of flavours

• Tom Yum Goong – A tangy and spicy shrimp soup that'll wake up your taste buds

• Green Curry – Coconut milk, green curry paste, and meat or veggies make this one a comforting yet spicy dish

• Som Tum – A spicy green papaya salad with shrimp, peanuts, and lots of chillies

• Mango Sticky Rice – Sweet coconut sticky rice paired with fresh mango slices

Visa Requirement for Indians: No visa is required for stays up to 60 days (visa-free entry).

4. Vietnam: Where The Aroma of Coffee Lingers in The Air

From the charming streets of Hanoi to the postcard-perfect alleys of Hoi An; from the vast stretches of paddy fields in Sa Pa to the eerie Imperial City of Hue; from the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City to the enchanting island of Phu Quoc and the limestone karsts in Ha Long Bay - Vietnam is one of the most underrated and cheapest countries to visit from India, which deserves to be on your 2025 travel bucket list.

Once you land in the country, grab a Vietnamese iced coffee and a bánh mì (sandwich), and let the travel gods bless you with a memorable trip!

Expense:

• Flights: INR 19,000 - 24,000 (round trip from New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai)

• Accommodation: INR 1,000 - 2,700 per night (budget hotels, homestays and Airbnbs)

• Food: INR 700 - 1,500 per day (a bowl of pho, banh mi, street food, and night markets)

• Internal transfers and sightseeing: INR 1,200 - 3,800 (cruises, war museums, historical sites)

Ideal Trip Duration: 7 to 10 days to explore Vietnam.

• North: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh

• Central: Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Phong Nha

• South: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc

Best Time to Visit: October to April (bright sunny days, cool evenings).

Best Food to Eat in Vietnam:

• Phở – The iconic noodle soup with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and lime

• Bánh mì – A French-Vietnamese fusion sandwich with crispy baguette, pork, pickled veggies, and herbs

• Gỏi cuốn – Fresh spring rolls, usually filled with shrimp, herbs, and rice noodles, served with peanut sauce

• Bún chả – Grilled pork with rice noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce

• Cơm tấm – Broken rice served with grilled pork, fried egg, and pickled veggies

Visa Requirement: E-visa is required for entry.

Get your Vietnamese visa sorted with Atlys in just 7 days.

5. Bhutan: The Land of Thunder Dragon

Tagged as 'The Happiest Country in the World,' Bhutan is a mystical Himalayan kingdom with picturesque landscapes, peaceful monasteries, a unique culture, and soulful people. 

While Thimphu and Paro are popular among tourists for their easy accessibility, monasteries, and vibrant markets, smaller towns like Punakha and Haa Valley are also worth visiting. And, of course, no trip to Bhutan is complete without hiking up to Tiger's Nest, a breathtaking monastery perched on a cliffside.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 9,000 - 12,000 (round trip to Bagdogra in West Bengal, and then hire a car/cab to Thimphu)

• Accommodation: INR 1,200 - 3,800 per night (budget hotels and homestays)

• Food: INR 600 - 1,300 per day (traditional Bhutanese meals in local cafes and restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,200 - 3,500 (temples, hikes, and dzongs)

• Sustainable Development Fee: INR 1,200

Ideal Trip Duration: 7 to 10 days to explore Bhutan's top attractions.

• Thimphu – Capital city with cultural landmarks like Tashichho Dzong, Changangkha Lhakhang, Motithang Takin Preserve

• Paro – Home to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery

• Punakha – Famous for Punakha Dzong & suspension bridge

• Phobjikha Valley – A scenic glacial valley ideal for nature lovers

• Haa Valley – Offbeat destination with stunning landscapes and picturesque Haa monastery

• Bumthang – Spiritual heart of Bhutan with ancient temples

Best Time to Visit:

• March to May (Spring)

• September to November (Autumn)

Best Food to Eat in Bhutan:

• Ema Datshi – Spicy chilli and cheese stew, usually eaten with rice

• Phaksha Paa – Pork cooked with radish and chilli. It's hearty and flavorful

• Jasha Maru – A spicy chicken stew with garlic, ginger, and tons of chillies

• Red Rice – A staple in Bhutan. Often served with meats or veggies

• Suja – Bhutanese butter tea made with yak butter and tea

Visa Requirement for Indians: No visa required.

• Must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as part of Bhutan's "high-value, low-impact" tourism policy.

6. Oman: With Sands and Souqs, A Hidden Gem in the Middle East

If you've thought travelling to the Middle East is expensive, it's time to look beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Just three hours away, the Sultanate of Oman is one of the cheapest countries to visit from India. It offers vast stretches of golden deserts, historic forts, magnificent wadis, and more.

Soak in the warmth of Omani culture as you explore this country's hidden gems - and don't forget to take a quick trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, where you can swim with turtles!

Expense:

• Flights: INR 19,000 - 28,000 (round trip from New Delhi and Mumbai)

• Accommodation: INR 1,700 - 3,500 per night (budget hotels and guesthouses)

• Food: INR 900 - 1,700 per day (local Omani food, shawarmas, kebabs)

• Internal transfers and sightseeing: INR 1,700 - 3,500 (desert safaris, forts, wadis, beach activities)

Ideal Trip Duration: 5 days to explore Oman's top attractions.

• Muscat – Capital city with stunning mosques and souks

• Nizwa – Historic forts and vibrant markets

• Wadi Shab – Scenic canyon with turquoise pools

• Bimmah Sinkhole – Natural limestone crater with emerald waters

Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)

Best Food to Eat in Oman:

• Shuwa – Slow-cooked lamb marinated with spices, cooked in an underground sand oven. A must-try!

• Majboos – A rice dish similar to biryani, with meat, rice, and all kinds of spices

• Mashuai – Rice served with dried fish or roasted tuna

• Harees – A creamy, porridge-like wheat and meat dish, often served during big celebrations

• Omani Halwa – A sticky, sweet dessert made with sugar, ghee, and nuts

Visa Requirement: A valid visa is required to travel to Oman.

Get your Oman visa sorted with Atlys in just a week's time.

7. Kazakhstan: An Offbeat Destination in Central Asia

Known as 'the land of nomads,' Kazakhstan is an offbeat gem that will soon become a popular destination among travelers. From vast steppes and rolling mountain ranges to pristine lakes and endless deserts, Kazakhstan has a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries.

Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or adventure enthusiast, this is one of the most affordable countries to visit from India and explore in 2025.

Expense: 

• Flights: INR 21,000 - 27,000 (round trip from New Delhi and Mumbai)

• Accommodation: INR 1,200 - 2,500 per night (budget hotels, Airbnbs and hostels)

• Food: INR 700 - 1,600 per day (local cuisine at cafes and restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,700 - 3,500 (mountain trips, national parks, museums)

Ideal Trip Duration: 7 to 10 days to explore Kazakhstan's top attractions.

• Almaty – Vibrant city with scenic landscapes

• Charyn Canyon – Kazakhstan's Grand Canyon

• Astana (Nur-Sultan) – Modern capital with stunning architecture

• Shymbulak – Popular ski resort in the mountains

Best Time to Visit:

• April to June (Spring)

• September to October (Autumn)

Best Food to Eat in Kazakhstan:

• Beshbarmak – The national dish: boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served with pasta

• Kazy – A traditional sausage made from horsemeat

• Plov – A rice dish made with meat, carrots, and onions

• Shashlik – Grilled skewers of meat (like kebabs) served with flatbread and veggies

• Baursaks – Fried dough balls, often served with tea or just as a snack

Visa Requirement for Indians: No visa is required for stays up to 14 days.

• For longer stays, a visa is required

Now that you know the cheapest destinations to explore from India, it's time to plan that much-awaited international trip! Book your flights, apply for your visa, pack your bags, and get your passport stamped as you enter a new country in 2025.