Weekend Getaway Cost – Simple Guide to Budget Your Short Trip

Planning a two‑day escape but worried about the price? You’re not alone. A weekend trip can be cheap or pricey depending on where you go, how you travel, and what you do. Below are the real costs you’ll face and practical ways to keep the bill low.

Transport: Get There Without Breaking the Bank

Airfare is the biggest surprise for many travelers. For popular spots like Goa or Kochi, a round‑trip flight from Delhi or Mumbai can run between ₹4,000‑₹8,000 if you book a month ahead. Looking for cheaper? Trains and buses often cost under ₹1,500 for the same distance. Check the South India Trip Cost guide for exact numbers on train tickets and sleeper classes.

Once you’re at the destination, local transport matters. Auto‑rickshaws charge ₹15‑₹20 per kilometer in most cities. Renting a scooter is another option, typically ₹300‑₹500 per day. If you’re heading to a beach near an airport – like the closest beach to Goa Airport – a quick taxi ride can be under ₹250.

Accommodation: Pick the Right Spot for Your Wallet

Hostels and budget hotels dominate the weekend market. In Goa, a clean dorm bed costs about ₹800‑₹1,200 per night, while a decent 2‑star hotel runs ₹2,000‑₹3,000. In Kerala’s backwaters, houseboats are a dream but pricey; a night on a shared boat starts at ₹4,000. For a cheap beach vibe, look for guesthouses in the Cheapest Beach Holiday Destinations list – many offer rooms under ₹1,500.

Don’t forget Airbnb. A private room in a city like Jaipur can be as low as ₹1,200 per night, especially if you book during the off‑season. Always read reviews for cleanliness; a clean spot saves you time and stress.

All together, expect to spend ₹2,000‑₹4,000 per night for a comfortable stay, or under ₹1,500 if you’re fine with shared rooms.

Food: Eat Well Without Burning Your Budget

Street food is the hero of any Indian weekend. A plate of dosa in Tamil Nadu, a bowl of biryani in Hyderabad, or a coconut water in Kerala costs ₹50‑₹150. If you prefer a sit‑down meal, mid‑range restaurants charge ₹300‑₹600 per person. To keep costs low, plan two meals from local stalls and one nicer dinner.

Don’t forget the “what to eat in India” safety tips – stick to cooked dishes, avoid raw salads from questionable stalls, and stay hydrated with bottled water.

Activities: How Much Should You Budget?

Most popular attractions have modest entry fees. A heritage site in the Golden Triangle costs ₹100‑₹300. Beaches are free, but water sports like parasailing can be ₹800‑₹1,200 for an hour. If you’re eyeing a unique experience – like a short trek in the Western Ghats – gear rentals are about ₹200‑₹500 per day.

For a truly cheap weekend, pick activities that are free or low cost: sunrise at a hilltop, exploring local markets, or a sunrise boat ride in the backwaters (often included with a homestay).

Putting It All Together

Here’s a quick budget snapshot for a typical weekend in Goa:

• Transport (flight + local): ₹6,000
• Accommodation (budget hotel, 2 nights): ₹4,000
• Food (street + a few restaurant meals): ₹2,500
• Activities (beach, entry to a fort, water sport): ₹1,500

Total: roughly ₹14,000 for two people. Swap Goa for a hill station like Munnar and you’ll see similar numbers, just a bit lower on flights.

Bottom line: a weekend getaway in India comfortably fits between ₹10,000‑₹20,000 per person, depending on your choices. Book transport early, stay in hostels or guesthouses, eat local, and pick free or cheap attractions. With these tips, you’ll enjoy a memorable break without worrying about the bill.