Best International Trips Under ₹1 Lakh from India (Friendly Guide for First-Timers)
So you’re finally thinking about taking that first international trip but don’t want your wallet to scream for help? Honestly, I get it. Most of us imagine international travel = selling a kidney, but trust me, it doesn’t have to be that dramatic. With a little planning, some common sense, and a few hacks from Question Miles, you can literally take off to another country for under ₹1 lakh — and I’m talking flights, stays, food, sightseeing… the whole package.
And the best part? These aren’t random boring places.
We’re talking Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Dubai, and Bali — the absolute crowd-favorites for budget-friendly adventures.
Let’s break everything down like you’re sitting across from me with a cup of cold coffee that’s already melting.
Why These Places Make Sense for First-Time Travelers
Before we jump into itineraries and budgets, here’s the simple reason why these five destinations are the holy grail for budget trips:
- Flights are relatively cheap (especially if you avoid long weekends)
- Stays are super flexible — from cute hostels to beachfront villas
- Food is affordable AND delicious
- Visa process isn’t complicated
- You get that sweet balance of beaches + nightlife + culture + adventure
Basically, you get maximum “Instagrammable moments” without breaking the bank.
Top International Trips Under ₹1 Lakh (With Realistic Budgets)
Below is a quick breakdown so you can see at a glance what fits your vibe and wallet.
| Destination | Ideal For | Flight Cost (avg) | Total Trip Cost (5 Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Beaches, nightlife, shopping | ₹15k–₹22k | ₹70k–₹90k |
| Vietnam | Nature, culture, food | ₹18k–₹28k | ₹80k–₹95k |
| Sri Lanka | Beaches + wildlife | ₹12k–₹18k | ₹65k–₹85k |
| Dubai | City life, luxury vibes | ₹20k–₹30k | ₹90k–₹1 lakh |
| Bali | Romantic trips, scenic spots | ₹22k–₹35k | ₹90k–₹1.1 lakh* (can be under 1L with smart planning) |
(Note: Prices can shift a bit depending on the season, but this is the realistic ballpark.)
Now let’s go destination by destination — and yes, I’ll keep this friendly and simple like we’re planning together.
Thailand: The “You Can’t Go Wrong” Destination
If you want something fun, easy, and affordable, Thailand is basically the cheat code. It’s perfect whether you’re going with friends, your partner, or even solo.
Budget Breakdown (5 Days)
- Flights: ₹15k–₹22k
- Stay: ₹1.5k–2k per night for decent hostels / ₹3k–4k for hotels
- Food: ₹800–₹1,200 per day
- Local travel: ₹3k–₹5k
- Activities: ₹5k–₹10k
Total: ~₹70k–₹90k
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Land in Bangkok → explore night markets (Asiatique / Chatuchak)
Day 2: Grand Palace + Wat Pho → Chinatown food tour
Day 3: Fly/boat to Phuket → beach time
Day 4: Phi Phi Islands tour
Day 5: Chill + last-minute shopping → fly back
Visa Tips
- Indians get Visa on Arrival
- Carry passport photos + cash for visa fee
- Takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on crowds
Super easy and beginner-friendly.
Vietnam: For Foodies & Culture Lovers
Vietnam is one of those countries that’ll surprise you. It’s peaceful, scenic, and honestly super affordable if you plan right.
Budget Breakdown (5 Days)
- Flights: ₹18k–₹28k
- Stay: ₹1.5k–2.5k per night
- Food: ₹600–₹1,000 per day (street food for the win)
- Transport: ₹4k–6k
- Activities: ₹5k–8k
Total: ~₹80k–₹95k
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Land in Hanoi → Old Quarter walk
Day 2: Ninh Binh day trip (trust me, it’s magical)
Day 3: Fly to Da Nang → explore beaches
Day 4: Day trip to Hoi An (lanterns! so pretty)
Day 5: Banh mi + last-minute shopping → fly home
Visa Tips
- Indians can apply for an e-Visa
- Pretty straightforward, takes around 3 days
- Costs approx $25
The whole process is online, which saves you a lot of stress.
Sri Lanka: So Close, So Stunning
Sri Lanka is literally a 1.5–3 hour flight from many Indian cities, and still feels like you’ve stepped into a different world. Whether you’re into beaches, wildlife, or tea plantations, it’s all here.
Budget Breakdown (5 Days)
- Flights: ₹12k–₹18k
- Stay: ₹2k–3k per night
- Food: ₹600–₹900/day
- Transport: ₹3k–5k
- Activities: ₹5k–9k
Total: ~₹65k–₹85k
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Colombo → Galle Fort
Day 2: Mirissa (beaches + whale watching)
Day 3: Move to Kandy → Temple of the Tooth
Day 4: Train to Ella (the iconic scenic ride)
Day 5: Chill in Ella → return flight
Visa Tips
- Indians need an ETA/e-Visa
- Quick application and approval
- Costs around $50
Dubai: For a Mix of Glam + Adventure
Dubai might look expensive, but a carefully planned budget trip can come under ₹1 lakh. And there’s honestly so much to do — deserts, malls, theme parks, beaches, and ridiculously good food.
Budget Breakdown (5 Days)
- Flights: ₹20k–₹30k
- Stay: ₹4k–6k per night (shared stays cheaper)
- Food: ₹1k–1.5k per day
- Sightseeing/activities: ₹10k–15k
- Local travel: ₹2k–3k
Total: ~₹90k–₹1 lakh
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Dubai Mall + Fountain show
Day 2: Desert safari + BBQ dinner
Day 3: Miracle Garden + Global Village
Day 4: Marina cruise or beach day
Day 5: Souk shopping → fly back
Visa Tips
- Need a pre-approved UAE visa
- Usually takes 3–6 days
- Costs around ₹7k–₹9k
Bali: The Dreamy, Instagram-Famous Destination
Bali is that place where every corner looks like a travel postcard. Temples, waterfalls, rice terraces — it’s gorgeous and surprisingly affordable if you avoid fancy resorts.
Budget Breakdown (5 Days)
- Flights: ₹22k–₹35k
- Stay: ₹2k–4k per night
- Food: ₹700–₹1,200/day
- Transport: ₹4k–6k
- Activities: ₹8k–12k
Total: ~₹90k–1.1 lakh
(Under ₹1 lakh is absolutely doable with cheaper stays)
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Land in Bali → Seminyak nightlife
Day 2: Ubud (rice fields, monkey forest, waterfalls)
Day 3: Nusa Penida day trip
Day 4: Temple hopping → Tanah Lot sunset
Day 5: Smoothie bowl → fly home
Visa Tips
- Indians can get Visa on Arrival
- Very straightforward
- Costs around $35
Quick Comparison: Which Trip Should You Pick?
Here’s a fun cheat sheet:
- If you like beaches AND parties → Thailand or Bali
- If you’re a culture/history person → Vietnam
- If you want to travel short-distance → Sri Lanka
- If you want city glam → Dubai
- If you’re going on a honeymoon → Bali
- If you’re going with friends → Thailand
- If you’re budget-conscious → Sri Lanka or Thailand
General Budget Tips to Keep Everything Under ₹1 Lakh
These are my usual hacks — nothing fancy, just stuff that works:
1. Book flights 6–8 weeks in advance
Last-minute flights = instant heartbreak.
2. Travel during shoulder seasons
Your wallet will thank you (and so will your sanity because there are fewer tourists).
3. Use local transport
Grab in SE Asia is super cheap. Public transport in Dubai is surprisingly good.
4. Eat where locals eat
You’ll get better food at half the price.
5. Skip overpriced tours
Many attractions are free or cheap if you go on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because Everyone Asks These)
1. Are these trips safe for solo travelers?
Yep! Specially Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali. Just follow basic safety rules like you would in any city.
2. Do I need travel insurance?
It’s not mandatory for all destinations, but it’s honestly a lifesaver. Get one that covers medical + baggage.
3. How much cash should I carry?
Around ₹10k–₹20k equivalent is usually enough. Cards + UPI alternatives work in many places.
4. Which place is best for couples?
Bali wins hands down. Second option: Vietnam (Hoi An feels like a fairytale).
5. Can I plan all this on my own or do I need a travel agent?
Bro, trust me — you can easily plan these yourself. But if you want zero stress, a travel buddy like Question Miles can help.
Final Thoughts (And a Little Friendly Push)
Look, travelling internationally doesn’t have to be this huge, scary, expensive project. Once you see that trips under ₹1 lakh are not just possible but genuinely fun, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. And honestly, these countries are perfect if you’re a first-timer — the flights aren’t too long, the visas aren’t a headache, and the experiences? Totally worth it.
So pick a destination that matches your vibe, start checking flight prices, and maybe open your Notes app to start a tiny packing list.
When you’re ready, Question Miles is right here as your friendly travel buddy — not to sell you stuff, but to help you travel smarter.
Happy planning, and if you do end up taking that trip… send pictures. I’ll pretend I’m there too.
