Discover Uttarakhand like never before! Whether you're saving up for the next Big Billion Day or watching out for that HDFC credit card cashback, we've crafted this money-smart travel guide to help you explore Uttarakhand on a budget. At SavePlus, our mission is to unlock the best travel deals, promo codes, and shopping hacks tailored for Indian travelers.
Rishikesh – The Budget-Friendly Yoga Capital
Rishikesh, the spiritual hub of Uttarakhand, is a magnet for yoga lovers, pilgrims, and backpackers. Nestled on the banks of the Ganges, it offers tranquil riverfront views and serene surroundings. From free spiritual experiences to economical stays, Rishikesh ensures affordability without compromising on culture. This sacred city is also known for hosting international yoga festivals and river rafting escapades. Perfect for Indian youth, families, and solo travelers, Rishikesh blends savings with soul-searching.
- Location: Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Regular buses from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun
By Train: Nearest station – Haridwar (25 km)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (21 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Ganga Aarti, Beatles Ashram, Rafting, Laxman Jhula
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000–₹1500 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Chotiwala thali, street chaat, herbal tea
- Nearby Cities: Haridwar, Dehradun, Mussoorie
Pro Tip: Book off-season rafting stays via SavePlus with UPI offers for extra savings.
Haridwar – Pilgrimage on a Budget
Haridwar is a city of spiritual energy and religious significance, drawing millions of Indian pilgrims annually. Its affordability makes it a top pick for low-budget travelers seeking a divine experience. The sacred ghats, traditional food stalls, and budget lodgings cater to those who prefer simplicity with savings. Whether you’re attending the Kumbh Mela or visiting with family, Haridwar’s charm lies in its cost-effective sanctity. SavePlus India recommends booking in advance during festivals to lock in deals.
- Location: Haridwar district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Frequent buses from Delhi, Dehradun
By Train: Haridwar Junction is well-connected
By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (39 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, Ganga Aarti
- Estimated Budget: ₹800–₹1200 per day
- Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Kachori-sabzi, aloo puri, jalebi
- Nearby Cities: Rishikesh, Dehradun, Roorkee
Pro Tip: Use IRCTC SBI Card and SavePlus deals for discounts during festivals.
Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills Under ₹1000
Mussoorie, fondly called the Queen of Hills, offers scenic landscapes, colonial charm, and misty mountain views at an affordable price. Popular among honeymooners, students, and weekenders, this hill station caters to all types of Indian travelers. It is easily accessible from Dehradun and features a range of budget hotels and local eateries. With off-season deals and smart planning, a trip here is both memorable and economical. SavePlus India users can explore exclusive travel offers during lean periods.
- Location: Dehradun district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Direct buses from Delhi and Dehradun
By Train: Dehradun Railway Station (36 km away)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (60 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road
- Estimated Budget: ₹1200–₹1600 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Bun omelette, momos, Maggi
- Nearby Cities: Dehradun, Dhanaulti, Rishikesh
Pro Tip: Grab Cleartrip hotel deals under ₹500 with Flipkart Axis card benefits.
Nainital – Scenic Views Without Breaking the Bank
Nainital, known for its pristine lakes and pleasant weather, is an ideal getaway for Indian families and couples. Its budget-friendly travel infrastructure makes it a top destination for off-season vacations. From lakeside stays to affordable local shopping, Nainital balances charm with cost-efficiency. Whether you want to relax by Naini Lake or shop at Tibetan Market, there are many ways to stretch your rupee. Use SavePlus India’s discount codes to maximize your holiday savings.
- Location: Nainital district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Direct buses from Delhi and Haldwani
By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (34 km away)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (70 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Mall Road
- Estimated Budget: ₹1200–₹1500 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Bhatt ki churkani, momos, jalebi
- Nearby Cities: Almora, Haldwani, Ranikhet
Pro Tip: Use MakeMyTrip coupons from SavePlus and Paytm for festive travel deals.
Lansdowne – Peace and Pines, All on a Budget
Lansdowne is a quiet cantonment town surrounded by dense pine forests and colonial architecture. Unlike touristy destinations, it offers serenity and scenic beauty with minimal expense. Ideal for solo travelers and families seeking a digital detox, Lansdowne is known for its slow pace and charm. Budget homestays and military-maintained eateries keep overall expenses low. Travelers can also benefit from IRCTC and SBI credit card offers to save more.
- Location: Pauri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses from Kotdwar, Haridwar, and Delhi
By Train: Kotdwar Railway Station (44 km)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (145 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Bhulla Tal, Tip n Top, War Memorial
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000–₹1300 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Rajma chawal, pakoras, jal jeera
- Nearby Cities: Kotdwar, Pauri, Haridwar
Pro Tip: Travel on weekdays and apply Goibibo UPI offers from SavePlus.
Auli – Snow Adventure at a Minimal Price
Famed for its snow-capped slopes and skiing opportunities, Auli is surprisingly affordable for winter enthusiasts. Whether you're into adventure sports or just want to experience snowfall, Auli offers budget-friendly stays and group packages. The ropeway ride and DIY trekking paths provide unforgettable experiences without draining your wallet. It's best to plan during the shoulder seasons to avoid peak pricing. Book early on SavePlus-linked platforms to grab exclusive winter discounts.
- Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses till Joshimath, then cable car or shared jeep
By Train: Rishikesh (260 km away)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (280 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Ropeway, Gorson Bugyal trek, skiing
- Estimated Budget: ₹1500–₹2000 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Garhwali dal, bhang chutney, aloo ke gutke
- Nearby Cities: Joshimath, Badrinath, Rudraprayag
Pro Tip: Book ropeway combos with SavePlus-linked cards to get 10% cashback.
Almora – Culture Meets Affordability
Almora is an underrated gem for travelers interested in history, art, and Kumaoni culture. The town boasts heritage sites, panoramic views, and bustling local bazaars, all accessible on a tight budget. Ideal for families, senior citizens, and art lovers, Almora promotes slow travel. Lodging and meals are priced reasonably, especially when booked early with SavePlus discount codes. This is a must-visit for those who enjoy culture without crowds.
- Location: Almora district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses available from Haldwani, Kathgodam, and Delhi
By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (82 km away)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (120 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Kasar Devi, Bright End Corner, Lal Bazaar
- Estimated Budget: ₹900–₹1200 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Bal mithai, singauri, bhaang chutney
- Nearby Cities: Ranikhet, Nainital, Binsar
Pro Tip: Shop local with Amazon Pay and apply SavePlus codes for double benefits.
Binsar – Wildlife and Serenity on a Budget
Binsar, nestled within a wildlife sanctuary, offers a rich blend of biodiversity and breathtaking views. Ideal for eco-tourists and nature lovers, this destination is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. From eco-lodges to basic forest accommodations, costs remain low year-round. It’s a great spot for hiking, bird-watching, and star-gazing—all without entrance fees beyond the park ticket. Use SavePlus for cashback on eco-tour bookings.
- Location: Almora district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Reach Almora and take a shared jeep to Binsar
By Train: Kathgodam (120 km) is the nearest railway station
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (140 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Binsar Sanctuary, Zero Point, Binsar Mahadev
- Estimated Budget: ₹1100–₹1400 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Kumaoni dal, gahat soup, mandua roti
- Nearby Cities: Almora, Ranikhet, Kausani
Pro Tip: Visit mid-week and book eco-lodges with SavePlus + ICICI card deals.
Chopta – Mini Switzerland for Backpackers
Chopta, often dubbed the "Mini Switzerland of India," is a scenic hill station known for its tranquility and trekking trails. With rich biodiversity and the iconic Tungnath Temple, this spot is perfect for nature-loving Indian backpackers. Chopta remains untouched by commercialization, keeping costs significantly low. With a little planning and smart usage of discount apps, your expenses can be reduced further. This is a dream destination for adventurers on a tight budget.
- Location: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: From Rishikesh or Ukhimath, local buses are available
By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (209 km)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (226 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Tungnath trek, Chandrashila peak, Deoriatal
- Estimated Budget: ₹800–₹1200 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Maggi, parathas, Garhwali thali
- Nearby Cities: Ukhimath, Rudraprayag, Gopeshwar
Pro Tip: Travel in shoulder seasons using RedBus offers via SavePlus for discounts.
Mukteshwar – Offbeat & Pocket-Friendly
Mukteshwar offers a peaceful alternative to mainstream hill stations, surrounded by orchards, cliffs, and Himalayan views. Ideal for couples and solo travelers seeking quietude, this destination is perfect for long weekend getaways. The town remains less commercialized, allowing budget travelers to enjoy panoramic spots and spiritual sites at no extra cost. Affordable stays and local transport make Mukteshwar an ideal choice for those watching their wallets. Planning ahead through SavePlus-linked platforms helps unlock seasonal discounts.
- Location: Nainital district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses available from Haldwani or Bhimtal
By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (62 km)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (90 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Mukteshwar Dham, Chauli Ki Jali, Bhalu Gaad waterfall
- Estimated Budget: ₹900–₹1200 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Apple desserts, Kumaoni thali, pakoras
- Nearby Cities: Bhimtal, Nainital, Almora
Pro Tip: Use MakeMyTrip and Freecharge offers through SavePlus for rural stays.
Dhanaulti – Affordable Escapes Near Mussoorie
Dhanaulti, a short drive from Mussoorie, is a peaceful retreat perfect for nature lovers on a budget. It is less crowded and offers clean air, eco-parks, and budget accommodations year-round. Whether you're traveling as a couple, group, or family, Dhanaulti is a great option for a cost-effective hill holiday. Forest walks and stargazing are popular free activities in the area. Booking early through SavePlus-listed travel portals can ensure cashback benefits.
- Location: Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses from Dehradun and Mussoorie
By Train: Dehradun Railway Station (60 km)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (80 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple, Potato Farm
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000–₹1300 per day
- Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
- Must Try Foods: Corn chaat, momos, pahadi Maggi
- Nearby Cities: Mussoorie, Tehri, Dehradun
Pro Tip: Apply SavePlus camping codes and UPI offers during national holidays.
Jim Corbett – Wildlife Without Wallet Pain
Jim Corbett National Park offers an exciting yet affordable adventure for wildlife enthusiasts and families. With its range of entry zones and budget accommodations, it caters well to cost-conscious travelers. Visitors can opt for economical safari packages and government-run guest houses to control spending. Booking during non-peak seasons further reduces costs, especially when paired with SavePlus promo codes. It’s a must-visit for those wanting to witness India’s rich biodiversity on a budget.
- Location: Nainital district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses from Delhi and Haldwani
By Train: Ramnagar Railway Station (12 km from park)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (80 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Jungle safari, Corbett Museum, Garjiya Devi Temple
- Estimated Budget: ₹1400–₹2000 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Kumaoni curry, dal-roti, hot pakoras
- Nearby Cities: Ramnagar, Kashipur, Haldwani
Pro Tip: Book early with SavePlus coupons and HDFC credit card safari offers.
Munsiyari – Snowy Trails at Budget Prices
Munsiyari is a picturesque hamlet in Pithoragarh district, known for its snow-covered peaks and pristine trails. It is the gateway to several treks and offers unmatched Himalayan views, making it perfect for adventure seekers on a budget. Most activities are low-cost or free, allowing long stays with minimal spending. Budget guest houses, cheap bus routes, and affordable food make this destination highly economical. Leverage SavePlus coupons for transportation and lodging to save even more.
- Location: Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses from Almora and Pithoragarh
By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (275 km)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (310 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Khaliya Top trek, Birthi Falls, Thamri Kund
- Estimated Budget: ₹1000–₹1300 per day
- Trip Duration: 3 to 4 days
- Must Try Foods: Mandua roti, thukpa, local sweets
- Nearby Cities: Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Almora
Pro Tip: Use KMVN + SavePlus discounts and IRCTC wallet offers for savings.
Kausani – Switzerland of India for Less
Often referred to as the “Switzerland of India,” Kausani offers uninterrupted views of Himalayan peaks at modest costs. It’s a top pick for poets, writers, and nature lovers seeking peace on a budget. The town offers local attractions like the Gandhi Ashram, tea gardens, and panoramic viewpoints—all free or inexpensive. Simple accommodations and local cuisine make it easy to keep costs low. For added value, use SavePlus India coupons during Independence Day and Diwali offers.
- Location: Bageshwar district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses from Almora, Haldwani, and Bageshwar
By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (142 km)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport (170 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Anasakti Ashram, Tea Garden, Viewpoints
- Estimated Budget: ₹900–₹1200 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Kafli, bhatt ki dal, local chai
- Nearby Cities: Almora, Bageshwar, Baijnath
Pro Tip: Visit during local events and use Paytm holiday deals via SavePlus.
Tehri Lake – Adventure at Reasonable Rates
Tehri Lake, formed by the Tehri Dam, is a growing adventure tourism hub in Uttarakhand. It offers water sports, boating, and panoramic lake views—all at surprisingly affordable prices. Budget accommodations and easy road access make it ideal for weekend trips from Delhi and nearby cities. Whether you're kayaking or camping under the stars, your wallet stays intact. Use SavePlus-linked travel sites to get seasonal promo codes on group bookings and adventure packages.
- Location: Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
- How to Reach:
By Bus: Buses from Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Dehradun
By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (85 km)
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (90 km) - Things to Do Places to Visit: Water sports, boating, Tehri Dam viewpoint
- Estimated Budget: ₹1200–₹1500 per day
- Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Must Try Foods: Local mutton curry, aloo ke gutke, chai snacks
- Nearby Cities: Rishikesh, Dehradun, Mussoorie
Pro Tip: Use RedBus + Google Pay offers from SavePlus for lake activity savings.
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Uttarakhand on a shoestring budget is not just possible—it’s enjoyable and deeply rewarding. With the right travel hacks, promo codes, and cashback tricks, curated by SavePlus, your Himalayan escape won’t drain your savings. From backpacking to family trips, this guide ensures you travel smarter, not costlier.
FAQ
What is the cheapest way to travel within Uttarakhand?
Use local buses and shared autos. Book early via IRCTC for train discounts using SBI offers.
When is the best time to visit Uttarakhand on a budget?
Avoid peak seasons like May and December. Off-peak months (March and July) have more deals.
Can I find cashback offers on Uttarakhand hotel bookings?
Yes! Use SavePlus promo codes on Goibibo, OYO, and MakeMyTrip.
How do I save more on adventure activities in Auli and Tehri?
Bundle bookings through travel portals with credit card offers or UPI cashback schemes.
Are there any Indian festivals where travel deals spike?
Yes—watch for Diwali Dhamaka, Holi Festive Sale, and Independence Day offers on travel platforms.