Long Weekend Alert: 15 Budget-Friendly Escapes from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru |
Travel does not have to be expensive to be memorable. Exploring nearby destinations on a modest budget is one of the best ways to unwind, discover new cultures, and recharge without stretching your wallet. For residents of India’s bustling metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, there are plenty of nearby escapes offering nature, adventure, and cultural experiences within ₹8,000. Whether you are a student, a young professional, or a weekend wanderer, these quick trips combine affordability with excitement. From hill stations and beaches to heritage towns and coffee estates, here are some of the best budget-friendly getaways to explore from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
Best Budget Getaways Near Delhi Under ₹8,000
The capital city’s central location makes it easy to access the Himalayas, deserts, and spiritual towns within a few hours. Here are five budget travel options from Delhi that offer a mix of adventure, serenity, and culture.1. McLeodganj, Himachal PradeshDistance: 488 km (about 9 hours by bus) Nestled in the Dhauladhar range, McLeodganj is known for its Tibetan monasteries, cosy cafés, and mountain treks. The popular Triund trek offers a breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹700, accommodation ₹800 per night, food and local travel ₹700, sightseeing ₹800.Total Approximate Cost: ₹4,500 for 2 days. Perfect for nature lovers and backpackers, McLeodganj promises a rejuvenating escape without breaking the bank.2. Rishikesh, UttarakhandDistance: 240 km (5–6 hours by bus) The yoga capital of the world is an ideal mix of peace and adventure. Visitors can attend meditation sessions, experience the famous Ganga Aarti, or indulge in river rafting.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹400, ashram stay ₹600 per night, food and travel ₹700, activities ₹1,000.Total Approximate Cost: ₹5,500 for 3 days. Rishikesh offers an affordable spiritual and adventure retreat near Delhi.3. Neemrana, Rajasthan
Distance: 122 km (around 3 hours by road) A heritage lover’s paradise, Neemrana is famous for its majestic fort palace and ziplining adventure.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹600, heritage stay ₹1,200 per night, food ₹700, activities ₹1,000.Total Approximate Cost: ₹5,500 for 2 days. This weekend getaway perfectly blends royalty with relaxation.4. Haridwar, UttarakhandDistance: 214 km (5 hours by train or bus) A spiritual city on the banks of the Ganges, Haridwar offers divine experiences with its temples and evening Ganga Aarti.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹500, guesthouse ₹800 per night, food and local travel ₹700, temple visits ₹600.Total Approximate Cost: ₹4,400 for 2 days. It is a must-visit for travellers seeking spirituality and culture within a modest budget.5. Agra, Uttar PradeshDistance: 233 km (3–4 hours by train) Home to the magnificent Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, Agra is a perfect historical getaway.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹600, budget hotel ₹1,000 per night, food and travel ₹800, entry fees ₹600.Total Approximate Cost: ₹5,400 for 2 days. Agra is ideal for history lovers looking for an enriching short trip from Delhi.
Top Affordable Weekend Trips Near Mumbai
For those in Mumbai, short drives or train rides can lead to tranquil hill stations, coastal towns, and forest getaways. Here are some pocket-friendly destinations near Mumbai under ₹8,000.1. LonavalaDistance: 83 km (2 hours by road or train) Known for its misty hills, waterfalls, and scenic treks, Lonavala is Mumbai’s classic weekend escape.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹200, stay ₹1,000 per night, food and travel ₹700, sightseeing ₹500.Total Approximate Cost: ₹3,400 for 2 days. It is the perfect destination for monsoon trips and short nature breaks.2. AlibaugDistance: 92 km (2.5 hours via ferry and road) Alibaug offers serene beaches, coastal forts, and local seafood delights.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹800, guesthouse ₹1,200 per night, food and beach activities ₹700, sightseeing ₹500.Total Approximate Cost: ₹5,200 for 2 days. A great option for beach lovers looking for a quiet seaside retreat.3. MatheranDistance: 83 km (2.5 hours by train and local transport) India’s only automobile-free hill station, Matheran is known for its toy train rides, panoramic viewpoints, and tranquil atmosphere.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹400, stay ₹1,000 per night, food and travel ₹700, sightseeing ₹300.Total Approximate Cost: ₹3,700 for 2 days. Matheran is a peaceful and eco-friendly getaway for couples and families alike.4. Igatpuri
Distance: 116 km (3 hours by train or road) Surrounded by lush hills and waterfalls, Igatpuri is perfect for a relaxed weekend in nature.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹300, stay ₹900 per night, food and exploration ₹600.Total Approximate Cost: ₹3,800 for 2 days. It is an ideal offbeat spot for trekkers and photographers.5. KarnalaDistance: 47 km (1.5 hours by road) Karnala is a haven for nature enthusiasts with its fort trek and bird sanctuary.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹150, campsite or guesthouse ₹800 per night, food and entry ₹500.Total Approximate Cost: ₹2,500 for 2 days. A great choice for a quick, budget-friendly escape close to Mumbai.
Cheap and Scenic Weekend Getaways Near Bengaluru
Bengaluru is surrounded by stunning landscapes, hill stations, and heritage towns that make for easy road trips. Here are five pocket-friendly destinations under ₹8,000.1. Nandi HillsDistance: 60 km (1–2 hours by road) A popular sunrise destination, Nandi Hills offers panoramic views, ancient temples, and cycling routes.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹400, food and snacks ₹300.Total Approximate Cost: ₹700 for a day trip. Perfect for early morning road trips and photography enthusiasts.2. Coorg
Distance: 250 km (5–6 hours by road) Coorg is famous for its coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, and lush greenery.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹1,200, stay ₹1,000 per night, food and travel ₹700, sightseeing ₹500.Total Approximate Cost: ₹5,400 for 2 days. It is one of the best budget hill stations near Bengaluru.3. MysuruDistance: 145 km (3–4 hours by road or train) The royal city of Mysuru offers palaces, heritage architecture, and local markets.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹600, stay ₹800 per night, food and entry ₹700, local travel ₹500.Total Approximate Cost: ₹4,600 for 2 days. Perfect for culture lovers and history enthusiasts.4. ChikmagalurDistance: 245 km (5–6 hours by road) Known for coffee estates and waterfalls, Chikmagalur is ideal for peaceful weekends in nature.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹1,000, homestay ₹900 per night, food and exploration ₹700.Total Approximate Cost: ₹4,700 for 2 days. It is a serene spot for nature walks and coffee tasting experiences.5. SakleshpurDistance: 220 km (4–5 hours by road) Sakleshpur offers scenic treks, nature trails, and coffee plantation stays.Budget Breakdown: Transport ₹800, stay ₹700 per night, food and local travel ₹600.Total Approximate Cost: ₹4,400 for 2 days. It is an underrated yet beautiful weekend destination near Bengaluru.Explore More Without OverspendingFrom the Himalayan foothills and royal forts to serene beaches and coffee-scented hills, India’s top metro cities are surrounded by affordable gems waiting to be explored. With smart planning and modest spending, one can easily enjoy memorable weekend getaways under ₹8,000. So pack light, book early, and set off on your next adventure near Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru. Affordable travel is not just possible — it is the smartest way to experience India’s diversity.Also Read | Hidden dangers under hotel beds? Flight attendant reveals the must-know hack
