- Choose to visit Amritsar from October to March for better weather and lower prices
- Travel by train or book budget flights early to save on transportation costs
- Stay in budget hotels or homestays near Golden Temple with rates from Rs 700 to Rs 1200
Planning an Amritsar trip on a tight budget may sound ambitious, but it is far more achievable than most travellers realise. The spiritual charm of the Golden Temple, the patriotic vibe at Wagah Border, and the flavours of authentic Punjabi food draw visitors year-round, yet many do not know how affordable it can be with a little strategy. Flexibility helps when you understand where to save and where to spend. Amritsar offers rich culture, bustling bazaars, and soulful experiences that do not demand a high budget. With thoughtful decisions, you can make the most of every rupee without missing out on the destination's best attractions. Read on to find out how you can explore Amritsar on a budget of just Rs 15,000.
Tips To Plan Your Budget Amritsar Trip Under Rs 15,000
1. Choose the right time to travel
Visiting during the shoulder seasons of October to March helps you enjoy pleasant weather without peak season prices. Accommodation and transport are generally more affordable, and you will find fewer crowds. This means you can explore freely while keeping your expenses under control.
2. Travel smart: Trains or budget flights
The most economical way to reach Amritsar is by train. Sleeper class tickets cost Rs 500 - Rs 800, while 3AC tickets range from Rs 1,200 - Rs 1,800. If you prefer flying, book budget airlines at least 30 days in advance for fares as low as Rs 4,000 - Rs 6,000. Overnight trains save you one night's stay, giving you more room in your budget for food and activities.
3. Pick homestays or budget hotels
Amritsar has several budget-friendly hotels and homestays near the Golden Temple and Hall Bazaar. Rooms start at Rs 700 - Rs 1,200 per night. For two nights, expect to spend Rs 1,500 - Rs 3,000. Many properties offer complimentary breakfast, helping you save more.
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4. Stick to local food and dhabas
Eating at dhabas and street stalls helps keep daily expenses low. Meals like Amritsari kulcha, chole, and lassi cost Rs 100 - Rs 300 per plate. Over three days, food costs can stay within Rs 1,000 - Rs 1,500. Don't miss the langar at the Golden Temple - it's free and a soulful experience.
5. Plan free or low-cost activities
Amritsar's top attractions cost little to nothing. Visit the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and enjoy the Wagah Border ceremony (transport approx Rs 500). Explore Hall Bazaar for phulkari dupattas and juttis - just set a spending limit. Partition Museum entry is Rs 10 - Rs 50.
6. Use public transport or shared rides
Instead of relying on private cabs, opt for auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws or shared taxis for local travel. Short rides within the city cost around Rs 50 to Rs 150, while shared cabs to Wagah Border can be as low as Rs 150 to Rs 200 per person. This approach keeps your transportation costs under Rs 800 for the entire trip.
7. Shop smart and set a budget
Amritsar is famous for phulkari, juttis and spices, but impulse shopping can blow your budget. Decide on a fixed amount, for example Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500, for souvenirs. Bargain at Hall Bazaar and Katra Jaimal Singh for better deals. Avoid high-end stores and stick to local markets for authentic yet affordable buys.
Sample Budget Breakdown For An Amritsar Trip Under Rs 15,000
- Travel (round trip): Rs 1,000 - Rs 6,000
- Accommodation (2 nights): Rs 1,500 - Rs 3,000
- Food (3 days): Rs 1,000 - Rs 1,500
- Local travel & sightseeing: Rs 1,000 - Rs 1,500
- Miscellaneous expenses: Rs 500 - Rs 1,000
Estimated total: Rs 12,000 - Rs 15,000, comfortably keeping you under the Rs 15k mark.
An Amritsar trip under Rs 15,000 is completely within reach when you travel at the right time, choose smart transport, pick budget stays, and keep your plans simple. Happy travelling!
