4 budget trips under INR 10,000

The Republic Day long weekend is a great chance to visit new places and relax after a busy start to the year. With some planning, you can enjoy beautiful views, lively culture, and memorable experiences, all while keeping your trip under INR 10,000. Here are four trip ideas with practical breakdowns for transport, stay, food, and activities.
1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Why go: Spiritual banks of the Ganga, thrilling river rafting, and scenic bridges make Rishikesh perfect for both adventure seekers and chill travellers.
Budget Breakdown (3 days / 2 nights)

Transport: Train (Sleeper) or bus – ₹1,000–1,500
Stay: Budget hostel/guesthouse – ₹500–800/night → ₹1,000–1,600
Food: Street/local eateries – ₹300/day → ₹900
Activities: Ganga Aarti (free), Laxman/Ram Jhula (free), optional rafting – approximately ₹1,500

Estimated Total: ₹4,000–₹5,700
Tips: Book trains early and stay near Tapovan to save on local travel. Rent a scooter to wander around.
Rishikesh is known for yoga, river rafting, and peaceful Ganga aartis. (Photo: Wikipedia)
2. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Why go: Rich hory, majestic forts, and colourful bazaars in the Pink City. Winter weather in January is perfect for walking and sightseeing.
Budget Breakdown (3 days / 2 nights)

Transport: Train/bus – ₹1,000–1,500
Stay: Budget hotel/hostel – ₹600–900/night → ₹1,200–1,800
Food: Local dhabas/cafes – ₹300/day → ₹900
Sightseeing: Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal & local forts – ₹300–₹600

Estimated Total: ₹4,400–₹7,000
Tips: Walk or use shared autos or local buses to cut local transport costs.Story continues below this ad
3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Why go: Sunrise boat ride on the Ganga, horic ghats, and spiritual energy that’s unique to Varanasi.
Budget Breakdown (3 days / 2 nights)

Transport: Train – ₹800–1,200
Stay: Budget guesthouse – ₹400–700/night → ₹800–1,400
Food: Street food – ₹250/day → ₹750
Experiences: Boat ride – ₹500–1,500, temple entries (minimal)

Estimated Total: ₹3,700–₹8,000
Tips: Stay near Assi Ghat for easy access to temples and food.

Golden Temple, Amritsar (PTI Photo/Shiva Sharma)
4. Amritsar, Punjab
Why go: Perfect for hory buffs and food lovers, Amritsar offers spiritual calm with patriotic energy — especially around Republic Day, when the Wagah Border ceremony adds extra zeal.
Budget Breakdown (3 Days / 2 Nights)Story continues below this ad

Transport (Train Sleeper/Seater): ₹1,000-₹1,500
Stay (Budget Hotel / Guesthouse): ₹1,500-₹2,000- (₹750 × 2 nights)
Food: ₹1,200 (₹400/day)
Local Travel & Entry: Free entry at Wagah Border, Jallianwala Bagh, and markets

Estimated Total: ₹3,700–₹7,000