Are you itching for a quick escape to the mountains without draining your bank account? Well, you’re in luck! 🏞️🚍
Himachal Pradesh, the crown jewel of North India, is a paradise for budget travellers. With its snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, charming towns, and adventure-packed experiences, Himachal is the ultimate weekend destination-even if you’re on a budget.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top places to explore in Himachal under ₹20,000 for a weekend getaway. From travel and stays to food and fun, we’ve got you covered. So pack your bags (and a hoodie), and let’s get rolling!
🏔️ Why Himachal Pradesh is Perfect for Budget Travellers
- Affordable transport: Overnight Volvo buses and shared cabs are easily available.
- Pocket-friendly stays: Hostels, homestays, and budget hotels are scattered across the state.
- Local food is love: Maggi by the hillside, thukpa in Tibetan cafes, and parathas with butter-yum and cheap!
- Nature is free: The best things in Himachal-sunrises, hikes, rivers, and snowy peaks-don’t cost a thing.
🧳 Quick Tip: What ₹20,000 Covers
Your ₹20K budget can easily include:
- Round-trip transport (bus/train/cab)
- 2 nights of stay
- Food and snacks
- Entry fees (if any)
- Adventure or cultural activities
Top weekend destinations in Himachal under ₹20,000!
1. Kasol & Tosh – The Mini Israel of India
Ideal For: Backpackers, trekkers, chill vibes
Best Time to Visit: March-June, September-November
Distance from Delhi: 520 km
🌿 Why Visit?
- Lush green Parvati Valley
- Easy riverside hikes
- Scenic cafes, trance music, and mountain dogs
- Gateway to Kheerganga trek
💸 Budget Breakdown:
- Travel (Volvo from Delhi): ₹2,000 round trip
- Stay (hostel/private room): ₹800-₹1,200 per night
- Food: ₹600/day (cafe + local eateries)
- Local commute & extras: ₹1,000-₹1,500
Total: ₹7,500-₹9,000
Bonus: If you’re up for a short trek, Kheerganga is totally worth it for natural hot springs and starry skies.
2. Bir Billing – India’s Paragliding Capital
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, couples, solo travellers
Best Time to Visit: March-May, October-November
Distance from Delhi: 500 km
🪂 Why Visit?
- World-class paragliding
- Monasteries and peaceful Tibetan culture
- Cozy cafes and scenic sunsets
- Work-from-mountains spots galore
💸 Budget Breakdown:
- Travel (Volvo): ₹2,200
- Stay: ₹1,000-₹1,500 per night
- Paragliding: ₹2,500-₹3,000 (optional, but do it!)
- Food: ₹600/day
- Local commute: ₹500-₹800
Total: ₹10,000-₹12,000 (with paragliding!)
Pro Tip: Stay in Chougan or Bir village for that true offbeat mountain feel.
3. Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj – Mountains Meet Monasteries
Ideal For: Culture vultures, couples, foodies
Best Time to Visit: March-June, September-November
Distance from Delhi: 480 km
🏞️ Why Visit?
- Dalai Lama’s residence, monasteries & Tibetan culture
- Triund trek with views to die for
- Boho cafes, bookstores & street shopping
- Waterfalls like Bhagsunag and peaceful hikes
💸 Budget Breakdown:
- Travel (Volvo or train + cab): ₹2,000-₹2,500
- Stay: ₹800-₹1,200 per night
- Food: ₹500-₹800/day
- Activities (Triund trek, monastery visits): Mostly free
- Local commute: ₹500
Total: ₹9,000-₹10,000
Pro Tip: Wake up early to hike Triund and catch a magical sunrise. Also, try the momos at Tibet Kitchen!
4. Tirthan Valley – Hidden Gem of Himachal
Ideal For: Nature lovers, offbeat explorers
Best Time to Visit: March-June, October
Distance from Delhi: 510 km
🌲 Why Visit?
- Serene riverside camps and guesthouses
- Gateway to Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO site)
- Trout fishing, waterfalls & forest walks
- Minimal crowds = maximum peace
💸 Budget Breakdown:
- Travel (Volvo + local cab): ₹2,500
- Stay: ₹1,200-₹1,500 per night (riverside homestays!)
- Food: ₹600/day
- Local activities: ₹500-₹800
Total: ₹10,000-₹12,000
Pro Tip: Carry cash, as ATMs are limited and network can be patchy. Nature lovers will thank us later.
5. Manali – The All-Time Favourite
Ideal For: First-timers, group travellers, snow chasers
Best Time to Visit: Year-round (snow in winter, lush in summer)
Distance from Delhi: 540 km
🏔️ Why Visit?
- Mall Road shopping, hot springs, cafes
- Solang Valley for adventure sports
- Day trip to Atal Tunnel or Sissu
- Great for snowplay (Dec-Feb)
💸 Budget Breakdown:
- Travel: ₹2,200-₹2,500
- Stay: ₹1,000-₹1,500 per night
- Food: ₹600-₹800/day
- Activities (Solang, local cab): ₹1,500
- Extras/shopping: ₹1,000
Total: ₹12,000-₹15,000
Pro Tip: Want to escape the crowd? Stay in Old Manali or Vashisht for a more peaceful vibe.
Travel Hacks to Stay Under ₹20K
- Book buses/trains early to get lower fares.
- Use travel apps like Paytm for cashback and hotel discounts.
- Eat local-it’s cheaper and more authentic.
- Opt for hostels or shared rooms-perfect for solo or group travel.
- Travel overnight to save on accommodation costs.
FAQs – Weekend Trips to Himachal Under ₹20K
✅ Can I travel solo on this budget?
Absolutely! Hostels and shared cabs make it super easy and affordable.
✅ What’s the cheapest mode of transport?
Volvo buses or trains (to nearby stations like Pathankot) are your best bets.
✅ Is ₹20K enough for a couple?
Yes! Especially if you split accommodation and travel costs.
✅ Do I need permits?
Only for high-altitude areas like Spiti or Rohtang (not covered here). For weekend spots, no permits needed.
Final Thoughts!
You don’t need a fat wallet to experience the magic of Himachal. With ₹20,000 in your pocket and a sense of adventure in your heart, you can wake up to the sound of rivers, hike through pine forests, sip chai with a view, and sleep under the stars.
So go ahead-plan that weekend escape, tag your travel buddy, and get mountain high (on vibes, of course 😉).
Book buses on Paytm today & plan your weekend trip!
