Expensive India: Is Traveling in India Really Costly?

When people say Expensive India, a common misconception that India is a high-cost destination for tourists. Also known as costly India travel, it’s a myth that doesn’t hold up when you look at the numbers. The truth? India is one of the most affordable countries in the world for travelers—if you know where to look. A $20 daily budget can cover meals, local transport, and even basic lodging in most cities. But here’s the catch: some things do cost more than you expect, and those are the ones that make people think India is expensive.

Take the Indian visa cost, the mandatory fee for international visitors like US citizens. Also known as India tourist visa price, it’s $160 for a 10-year multiple-entry visa. That sounds steep until you realize you’re paying it once and getting years of access. Compare that to countries that charge $50 every six months. Then there’s the luxury train journey, a premium experience on routes like the Palace on Wheels or Route 1. Also known as Indian luxury train, these aren’t cheap—they’re designed for high-end travelers looking for five-star service on rails. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to take one. Most tourists skip them entirely and still have an unforgettable trip. What most people don’t realize is that the expensive parts of India are optional. The real value is in the everyday: street food for $1, temple visits for free, and overnight trains for under $20.

It’s not about how much you spend—it’s about what you spend it on. If you’re flying into Goa on a luxury flight, staying in a five-star beach resort, and booking private tours, sure, your trip will cost more. But if you’re hopping on a local bus, eating at a dhaba, and sleeping in a clean guesthouse, you’ll spend less than you would at a budget hotel in Europe. The idea of an expensive India, a perception fueled by luxury travel blogs and high-end packages. Also known as costly India, it’s a filter, not a reality. Many travelers leave thinking India was expensive because they compared it to their home country’s prices—not to what India actually offers. The real story is in the contrast: a $160 visa and a $100 train ride can coexist with $2 meals and free temple access. You control the cost.

Below, you’ll find real guides that cut through the noise. From the exact cost of an Indian visa for US citizens to how far $20 really goes in Mumbai or Kerala, these articles show you what matters. No fluff. No marketing spin. Just the facts on what costs money—and what doesn’t—in today’s India.