Everyone wants a quick escape without breaking the bank, especially over a long weekend, right? But the question always arises: where can you actually travel, stay, eat, and explore comfortably under ₹ 10,000? The answer depends on where you are starting from. Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, there are hidden gems, scenic hill stations, and cultural hubs just a few hours away that can all be done within this budget. We are talking about affordable trains or short flights, homestays and guesthouses, and local food that won't empty your wallet. Here is your guide to budget-friendly long weekend getaways under ₹10,000 from India's three biggest metros.
Also Read: How To See Bhutan For Rs 15,000: Your Full 4-Day Itinerary For Food, Stays And Happiness
Where To Go For A Long Weekend Near Delhi | Places To Go For Long Weekend In Delhi
1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
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A mix of spirituality and adventure, Rishikesh is ideal for budget travellers. From yoga ashrams to thrilling river rafting, the town offers experiences that don't burn a hole in your pocket. Hostels and riverside camps keep costs down, while local cafes and restaurants serve hearty meals.
How To Reach Rishikesh from Delhi: 5–6 hours by road from Delhi, or take a train to Haridwar and a short drive.
Things To Do In Rishikesh: You can do white-water rafting, Ganga Aarti, yoga classes, and even trek to waterfalls.
Budget Required For Rishikesh: Stay ₹500–₹800, meals ₹200–₹300, rafting ₹600–₹800.
2. Jaipur, Rajasthan
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Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is perfect for a cultural long weekend. Palaces, forts, bazaars, and Rajasthani thalis make for plenty to do in the city. Budget hotels and homestays make it possible to explore without overspending.
How To Reach Jaipur from Delhi: 4–5 hours by train or road from Delhi.
Things To Do In Jaipur: Over the long weekend, you can visit Amber Fort, City Palace, shop for handicrafts, and try authentic Rajasthani food.
Budget Required For Jaipur: Stay ₹1,000–₹1,500, meals ₹300–₹500, entry fees ₹200–₹400.
3. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh
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Famous as India's paragliding capital, Bir Billing is a small town with big adventure. It's scenic, calm, and dotted with affordable homestays. Perfect for thrill-seekers on a budget.
How To Reach Bir Billing from Delhi: Overnight bus (10–12 hours) from Delhi.
Things To Do In Bir Billing: Although it is famous for paragliding, you can also visit monasteries, go cafe-hopping and even hike mountains.
Budget Required For Bir Billing: Stay ₹800–₹1,200, meals ₹200–₹400, paragliding ₹3,000–₹5,000.
4. Amritsar, Punjab
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A soulful mix of history and food, Amritsar is more than just the Golden Temple. From Jallianwala Bagh to bustling bazaars, it offers a full cultural immersion. Plus, food is a major highlight, and budget stays are aplenty.
How to Reach Amritsar From Delhi: 1-hour flight or 6–7 hours by train/road from Delhi.
Things To Do In Amritsar: Golden Temple, Wagah Border, street food trails, heritage walks.
Budget Required For Amritsar: Stay ₹1,000–₹1,500, meals ₹200–₹400, local travel ₹200–₹300.
Affordable Weekend Getaways from Mumbai | Which Weekend Getaways Are Nearest To Mumbai
1. Alibaug, Maharashtra
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Just a ferry ride away, Alibaug offers sandy beaches, forts, and seafood without Mumbai's chaos. Budget beach shacks and homestays keep it wallet-friendly.
How To Reach Alibaug From Mumbai: 1-hour ferry from Gateway of India, then local rickshaws.
Things To Do In Alibaug: You can visit Kolaba Fort, relax on beaches, and try seafood in shacks.
Budget Required For Alibaug: Stay ₹1,000–₹2,000, meals ₹300–₹500, ferry ₹300–₹400.
2. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
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A hill station known for strawberries and scenic viewpoints, Mahabaleshwar is perfect for a quick and affordable escape. The best part is that it isn't too far from Mumbai, so you don't need to plan extensively even for a long trip.
How To Reach Mahabaleshwar from Mumbai: 5–6 hours by road from Mumbai.
Things To Do In Mahabaleshwar: You can visit Mapro Gardens, Arthur's Seat, and even go boating in Venna Lake.
Budget Required For Mahabaleshwar: Stay ₹1,200–₹1,800, meals ₹300–₹500, activities ₹200–₹400.
3. Daman and Diu
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Daman and Diu is a coastal getaway that blends beaches, Portuguese forts, and a relaxed vibe. It's cheaper than Goa, with affordable guesthouses and food.
How To Reach Daman and Diu from Mumbai: 4–5 hours by road from Mumbai.
Things To Do In Daman and Diu: Explore Devka Beach, Diu Fort, and indulge in seafood trails.
Budget Required For Daman and Diu: Stay ₹1,500–₹2,000, meals ₹300–₹500, local sightseeing ₹200–₹400.
4. Saputara, Gujarat
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Gujarat's only hill station, Saputara, is pocket-friendly and scenic, making it perfect for families looking for a quick escape in the lush greenery.
How To Reach Satpura from Mumbai: 4–5 hours by road from Mumbai.
Things To Do In Satpura: Visit the sunrise point, go on ropeway rides, and roam around Saputara Lake.
Budget Required For Satpura: Stay ₹800–₹1,200, meals ₹200–₹400, activities ₹200–₹300.
Budget Trips Under Rs 10,000 from Bangalore | Where To Go For A Long Weekend From Bangalore
1. Coorg, Karnataka
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Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg is filled with coffee estates and waterfalls. Homestays make it an affordable yet memorable escape, not just for a solo trip but also for a trip with the family.
How to Reach Coorg From Bangalore: It takes 5–6 hours by road from Bangalore.
Things To Do In Coorg: Visit Abbey Falls, go on coffee plantation tours, and trek.
Budget Required For Coorg: Stay ₹1,200–₹1,800, meals ₹300–₹500, entry fees ₹200–₹300.
2. Hampi, Karnataka
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A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi is perfect for history lovers on a budget. Hostels and local cafes make it a backpacker's paradise. It is a great place to explore when you don't want anything overwhelming yet soulful.
How To Reach Hampi from Bangalore: Overnight train or bus from Bangalore.
Things To Do In Hampi: Explore ruins, cycle tours, and coracle boat rides.
Budget Required For Hampi: Stay ₹500–₹800, meals ₹200–₹400, entry fees ₹40–₹50.
3. Mysore, Karnataka
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Just a few hours away, Mysore is a city of palaces and vibrant markets. It's budget-friendly and rich in experiences, making it perfect for families and instant getaways.
How to Reach Mysore From Bangalore: 3–4 hours by train or road from Bangalore.
Things To Do In Mysore: Visit the Mysore Palace, go to Chamundi Hills, and explore Devaraja Market.
Budget Required For Mysore: Stay ₹1,000–₹1,500, meals ₹200–₹400, entry fees ₹100–₹200.
4. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
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A seaside town with French charm, Pondicherry offers cheap guesthouses, budget cafes, and walkable streets. It is vibrant and exciting, perfect for a short-term getaway.
How to Reach Pondicherry From Bangalore: 6–7 hours by road from Bangalore.
Things To Do In Pondicherry: Auroville, Promenade Beach, and French Quarter walks.
Budget Required For Pondicherry: Stay ₹1,500–₹2,000, meals ₹300–₹500, local travel ₹200–₹400.
Also Read: 7 Most Passenger-Friendly Airports In The World
How To Plan A Long Weekend On A Budget
1. Book early: Bus, train, and budget flight fares shoot up closer to weekends.
2. Pick homestays: They are cheaper than hotels and often include meals.
3. Eat local: Street food and small dhabas save money and give authentic experiences.
4. Travel light: Avoid extra baggage costs if you are flying.
5. Group trips: Sharing taxis, stays, or activities cuts down costs.
Photo: Pexels
How To Enjoy A Trip When You're On A Budget
1. Focus on free experiences like heritage walks, temples, local markets, and nature trails.
2. Use public transport or shared autos where possible instead of taxis.
3. Carry a reusable water bottle and snacks to avoid overspending on the go.
4. Spend on one highlight activity (like paragliding in Bir or rafting in Rishikesh) instead of trying to do everything.
So, plan an exciting long weekend with these ideas and make the most of your trip... without breaking your bank.
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