Travelling is not just about ticking places off a list, but rather than that, it is about finding the destinations that speak to your soul and this winter, why not explore the less crowded, more serene, offbeat places in India? These spots offer a stunning outlook, rich culture as well as spiritual experiences, all while being light on the wallet. Let’s explore six of the best offbeat places to visit this winter without breaking the bank.
1. Jaipur: A royal affair on a budget
When we think of the images of Jaipur, the grand palaces, as well as the vibrant markets, come to mind, but this pink city has a lot more to offer. Beyond the famous forts along with the luxurious hotels, there’s a side of Jaipur that’s surprisingly affordable. Winter is the perfect time to explore this offbeat destination when the weather is cool and pleasant. Imagine waking up in a heritage hotel that costs as little as ₹1,000 a night and you surrounded by the history.
Jaipur is home to lesser-known temples like Galtaji, which is often called the Monkey Temple, where you can soak in the sunset without spending a rupee. On top of that, the local eateries offer meals under ₹100, where you can taste the real essence of Rajasthani cuisine. Lastly, even popular spots like Amer Fort or Hawa Mahal come with minimal entry fees, making Jaipur a wallet-friendly, offbeat gem.
1885 :: Sheesh Mahal , Amer Fort , Rajasthan
( Photo – @britishlibrary ) pic.twitter.com/WJimVUFExV
— indianhistorypics (@IndiaHistorypic) December 31, 2018| . Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Heritage Stay | 1,000 – 1,500 per night |
| Local Meals | 100 – 200 per meal |
| Entry Fees | 100 – 200 |
2. Varanasi: Spiritual Serenity on a shoestring
Varanasi is often seen as a place for spiritual seekers, but there is something deeply offbeat about its ancient streets along with the ghats that draw the curious traveller, and the charm of the city lies in its raw, unfiltered view of life, death as well as everything in between. Winter brings a cooler climate, making it perfect for long walks along the River of Ganga.
Staying in Varanasi is surprisingly cheap, with the charging of the guesthouses as little as ₹500 a night and the holy city has an array of free activities, from witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat to exploring the narrow alleys that hide age-old stories. Likewise, you can savor a traditional Banarasi breakfast for under ₹50, and the Varanasi, with its spiritual energy, as well as the budget-friendly experience, is an ideal offbeat place for winter travelers.
ओम जय गंगे माता
ओम जय गंगे माता,
श्री जय गंगे माता।
जो नर तुझको ध्याता,
मन वांछित फल पाता।
Witnessed the magnificent & divine Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi.@PIB_India @RedFMIndia @mirchiplus @bigfmindia @FeverFMOfficial @AkashvaniAIR @PetroleumMin pic.twitter.com/KUkOFrhCWJ
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) January 22, 2023| Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Budget Stay | 500 – 800 per night |
| Street Food | 50 – 100 per meal |
| Boat Ride | 100 – 150 |
3. Hampi: A journey through time with minimal expense
Hampi is one of those offbeat places that feels like it is frozen in time, and among the ruins of a once-great empire, you can wander freely as well as let your imagination take flight. Winter in Hampi is magical, with the clear skies along with the pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal destination for exploring on foot or by bike.
Nevertheless, staying in a local guesthouse or homestay will cost you around ₹500 to ₹700 per night and cycling around the historical sites is practically free. The sheer number of monuments you can explore for little to no cost is astounding. And stop for the traditional South Indian meal for under ₹100 and enjoy the peaceful rural vibe. If you are an adventurer at heart along with a love of history, Hampi is a must-visit offbeat place this winter.
| Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Homestay | 700 – 1000 per night |
| Local Food | 100 – 150 per meal |
| Bike Rental | 25 rs per hour/599 per day |
Hampi, Karnataka pic.twitter.com/rS8zI5w8vQ
— BharatKeMandir (@bharatkemandir) September 28, 20244. Coorg: Coffee Estates and Hills on a Budget
Coorg is nestled in the Western Ghats, and it is a dream for nature lovers. The winter transforms this hill station into a mist-covered paradise, perfect for those seeking tranquillity, and it is known for its coffee plantations as well as the scenic view; Coorg is surprisingly budget-friendly. Opt for a homestay among the estates of the coffee that can be as cheap as ₹1,000 per night.
The best part of Coorg? Nature is free, and explore the Abbey Falls, the Madikeri Fort as well as the Raja’s Seat without spending a fortune. The traditional Kodava meal, including the famous Pandhi Curry (pork curry), won’t cost more than ₹150. If you’re seeking an offbeat place that combines nature, culture as well as affordability, the Coorg should top your list.
Looking for a nature-packed weekend? 🌿✨
Kaveri Nisargadhama Forest Resort in Kushalnagara, Coorg offers a perfect retreat with bamboo tree-top cottages and riverside guesthouses. Relax by the Kaveri River and embrace the greenery! 🌳🏞️
Book now: https://t.co/yTGBtWEcpl pic.twitter.com/09ZCsN4flo
— Karnataka Tourism (@KarnatakaWorld) September 20, 2024| Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Homestay | 1,000 – 1,500 per night |
| Local Meals | 100 – 150 per meal |
| Sightseeing | | Free – 100 |
5. Rishikesh: Adventure meets spirituality on a budget
Rishikesh is the place where spirituality as well as adventure coexist in harmony. Whether you’re into yoga, rafting, or simply soaking in the peaceful vibe along the Ganges, Rishikesh offers it all at an affordable price. Winter is perfect for experiencing the calm yet bracing energy of this offbeat town. Plus, the basic accommodations near the river are available for as little as ₹500 a night.
Many of the ashrams even offer free or donation-based yoga sessions, and for adventure seekers, river rafting costs around ₹600 as well as making it an inexpensive thrill. With affordable vegetarian food, breathtaking views, along minimal fees for entry to most temples, the Rishikesh is one of the best offbeat places to rejuvenate without burning a hole in your pocket.
| Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Budget Stay | 500 – 800 per night |
| Vegetarian Meals | 50 – 100 per meal |
| River Rafting | 600 |
Have you tried river rafting yet? If not, come to Rishikesh and try the white water rafting in Ganga. Here, the water does not flow by you but through you! Let's get started.
Credit: @Paddlerzone123 #uttarakhandtourism #uttarakhandjourney #adventurelovers #adventureculture pic.twitter.com/DdeKbnxRUA
— Uttarakhand Tourism (@UTDBofficial) March 28, 20226. Ooty: Misty Hills and Colonial Charm on a Shoestring
Ooty the Queen of Hill Stations offers a different charm during winter, and the mist-covered hills, cool air, as well as colonial architecture, make it a perfect offbeat place to unwind. What’s even better is that you can experience Ooty on a budget and even during the peak season. Nevertheless, stay in a cosy homestay for about ₹800 per night, along with enjoying the scenic beauty of the Ooty’s botanical gardens, lakes as well and plantations of tea, which are either free or cost a minimal entry fee. For the quintessential Ooty experience, take the toy train ride for ₹100, and the meals at local eateries will cost you ₹100 to ₹150.
Stepping into the serene ambiance of our Taj Savoy Hotel in Ooty feels like a journey back in time. 🍃 Nestled amidst lush greenery, its colonial architecture whispers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. #RPG owned hotel pic.twitter.com/sc53M47EGH
— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) February 8, 2024| Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Homestay | 800 – 1,200 per night |
| Local Meals | 100 – 150 per meal |
| Toy Train Ride | 100 |
In the end, winter is the perfect season to explore India’s diverse as well as mesmerizing outlook and these six offbeat places offer unique experiences at a minimal cost. From the historic ruins of Hampi to the peaceful hills of the Coorg, each destination promises an adventure that doesn’t break the bank. So, pack your bags and let the wanderlust take over this winter!
FAQ
What is the best time to visit these offbeat destinations in India during the winter?
Winter, from November to February, offers pleasant weather for exploring these budget-friendly, offbeat destinations.
Are there affordable accommodations in these offbeat places for budget travelers?
Yes, each destination offers affordable stays with options like guesthouses as well as homestays under ₹1,000.
How much do meals cost on average in these offbeat destinations?
The meals range from ₹50 to ₹200 per person depending on the location as well as the type of cuisine.
Do these places offer any free or low-cost activities for travelers?
Yes, most places offer free activities like temple visits, nature trails or minimal entry fees for the attractions.
What are the transportation options for exploring these offbeat places?
Bikes, walking, public transport, and budget taxis are ideal for exploring these offbeat destinations affordably./
