Planning a Solapur trip but don’t want to overspend? You’re in luck! With wallet-friendly offers during sales like Amazon’s Great Indian Festival and PhonePe cashback deals, your Solapur itinerary can be packed yet pocket-friendly. At SavePlus, we believe you shouldn’t need a big budget to enjoy big experiences. Our hacks, tips, and offers help everyday Indians like you get more value for every rupee spent.
Explore the Heritage of Siddheshwar Temple
This iconic temple on the banks of Siddheshwar Lake is the heart of Solapur’s cultural and spiritual life. The temple is open all day with no entry fee, making it perfect for travellers on a tight budget. Visit during sunrise or sunset for a tranquil vibe and photogenic views. If you’re here during Makar Sankranti, the annual fair offers free entertainment and food stalls. Devotees come from all over Maharashtra, especially for the aarti and festivals. You’ll also find local vendors selling religious souvenirs at negotiable rates.
- The temple complex is beautifully maintained and offers a peaceful break from city hustle without charging anything.
- During festival seasons, you can witness folk dances, music events, and processions without buying any entry passes.
- Local snack stalls near the temple serve delicious vada pav, bhajiya, and tea under ₹50, perfect for quick budget meals.
Pro Tip: Bring an offering like coconuts or flowers from outside the temple to avoid overpaying at last-minute shops.
Take a Stroll at Hutatma Garden
This is Solapur’s favourite public garden where locals gather for relaxation, exercise, and leisure. Entry is free, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to unwind affordably. The clean pathways and lush greenery offer a welcome escape from the city’s dusty roads. Morning joggers and yoga groups often gather here, making it a safe space for health-conscious visitors. There’s also a children’s play area and benches for casual reading or people-watching. Evening lighting adds charm, and local food vendors add flavour to your visit.
- You don’t have to spend anything to enjoy an hour or two surrounded by flowers, fountains, and chirping birds.
- It's a great spot for a homemade picnic if you pack your own snacks and use Paytm offers for groceries.
- Street vendors outside sell samosas, ice gola, and roasted corn, all within a ₹30–₹50 budget range.
Pro Tip: If you’re a student, this is a peaceful place to study in the evenings, with zero disturbance and no cost.
Shop Smart at Solapur Chaddar Market
Solapur is famous for its iconic chaddars, towels, and cotton sarees, all available at this bustling textile market. This is where locals and tourists both score high-quality items at wholesale rates without paying brand markups. Vendors often accept UPI payments, especially during sales like Diwali Dhamaka or Republic Day Bonanza. If you’re good at bargaining, you can bring down prices by 10–20% easily. Look for factory seconds and end-of-season stock to save even more. Products bought here are durable and often exported, making it great value.
- You can get 100% cotton chaddars under ₹250, a deal you won’t find on e-commerce sites unless there’s a mega sale.
- Sarees and dress materials go for ₹300–₹500, especially if you buy in bulk or with a group of friends.
- Payment apps like PhonePe often run scratch card rewards or cashback offers when you spend ₹200 or more.
Pro Tip: Visit early morning when shopkeepers are just opening—their “first sale” tradition can get you the lowest rate.
Visit the Bhuikot Fort for Free
Step back in time at this historical marvel built during the Bahmani Sultanate. The fort is open to the public at minimal cost (₹5–₹10), which is a steal for its rich architecture and serene gardens. Kids can roam freely and history buffs can marvel at the old cannons, gates, and courtyards. It’s a popular photography spot, especially during golden hours. There are no hidden costs for guides, and the area is well-suited for DIY exploring. Bring your own snacks and water to avoid extra expenses.
- Entry tickets are extremely cheap and often waived for students with ID cards or locals visiting on special days.
- The gardens around the fort are perfect for low-cost photoshoots or casual strolls with friends and family.
- Local guides often volunteer for storytelling in Marathi during weekends, and they don’t expect any tips.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit around 4 PM to catch both the fort’s architecture and the sunset in one go.
Savour Budget-Friendly Solapuri Cuisine
Solapur's spicy and tangy Maharashtrian cuisine can be relished without fancy restaurant bills. You’ll find dhabas, messes, and local canteens serving hearty meals under ₹100. Local favourites include jhunka bhakar, kharwas, and spicy missal pav. Many food stalls accept digital wallets like Google Pay or PhonePe, so use those during cashback offers. If you’re travelling during festive times, you might even get free sample tastings at food fairs. For sweets, try the kharwas and pedas sold at street-side stalls.
- Local eateries like Suresh Dhaba or Vithal Snacks offer thalis with unlimited bhakri and sabzi starting from just ₹70.
- Solapur's iconic shenga chutney and bhadang are available at local stores under ₹40 per packet, ideal for souvenirs.
- Order online via Zomato using Flipkart SuperCoins or wallet offers to bring down your meal costs even further.
Pro Tip: Ask for the “student thali” at some messes; it's a known secret that offers more food at a lower price.
Browse Book Markets at Navi Peth
Students, job aspirants, and readers will find heaven in Navi Peth’s used book stalls. From competitive exam guides to romantic fiction, books start at just ₹20 here. Sellers usually offer combo deals like “3 for ₹100,” especially if you’re a repeat customer. If you’re preparing for UPSC, MPSC, or NEET, this is the place to find cheap coaching notes and materials. Many vendors use UPI for quick payments and may offer further discounts for bulk buys. Check back often—stock rotates weekly.
- Academic guides and test papers that cost ₹300 online can be found for ₹50 here in good condition.
- You can sell back books for 50% of the price later, effectively halving your cost with proper care.
- Ask for hidden stock or last copies—sellers often stash good books for regulars and budget-savvy buyers.
Pro Tip: Visit during exam seasons or semester breaks for the best selection of study material.
Catch a Movie at Budget Theatres
Skip the multiplex and enjoy the latest Marathi, Hindi, or South Indian films at local cinemas for under ₹100. Solapur’s old-school theatres still offer affordable ticket rates, especially for matinee shows. While the seating isn’t luxurious, the vibe is unmatched. Food counters offer samosas, soft drinks, and popcorn combos at ₹50–₹70. Booking online with BookMyShow promo codes can further reduce ticket rates. This makes it a great evening activity for families or couples without splurging.
- Weekday afternoon shows often cost only ₹60, giving you a full cinematic experience for less than a Domino's pizza.
- Use ICICI or HDFC card deals on BookMyShow to get 1+1 or ₹100 off, even on these low-ticket prices.
- Some theatres like Lokmanya or Laxmi Cinema offer family discounts on tickets when booked in groups of four or more.
Pro Tip: Carry your own water and avoid combo pricing by purchasing snacks from shops outside the theatre gate.
Visit Indra Bhavan for Cultural Events
Indra Bhavan is one of Solapur’s lesser-known cultural hubs, often hosting plays, poetry readings, and musical evenings. Entry is usually free or priced nominally under ₹50, making it a must-visit for art lovers on a tight budget. It’s a platform for local talent, so you’ll catch authentic Marathi theatre and folk performances. Weekends are the best time to attend, especially during festive seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi or Gudi Padwa. The venue is modest but acoustically sound, creating an intimate cultural vibe. Events are often announced through local WhatsApp groups or posters around the city.
- Folk music nights here often draw senior citizens and families and charge just ₹20 to ₹30 per person.
- College students perform skits and dance shows during competitions, which are free to attend and lively in energy.
- Entry passes can be reserved by contacting the office directly, and some shows even offer free tea or snacks.
Pro Tip: Follow local cultural groups on Facebook or Instagram to stay updated about free or discounted shows.
Day Trip to Hipparga Lake
Located about 30 km from Solapur, Hipparga Lake is a peaceful natural retreat perfect for a one-day budget getaway. The ride there is scenic and costs just ₹50–₹80 by state transport or shared autos. It’s ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers, especially during early mornings. With no entry fee and wide-open spaces, it’s a great place to picnic, meditate, or photograph wildlife. Carry your own food and games to keep things frugal. If you're travelling in a group, the cost per head drops significantly.
- Public buses to Hipparga run frequently from Solapur and are the most affordable mode of transport for the trip.
- The lake’s surroundings offer spots for volleyball or cricket, and many locals use it for yoga sessions on Sundays.
- There are no food stalls nearby, so pack homemade snacks and drinks to avoid spending unnecessarily.
Pro Tip: Visit post-monsoon for lush greenery, and bring binoculars to spot migratory birds without any entry charge.
Buy Local Snacks from Sadar Bazar
Solapur’s Sadar Bazar is a haven for budget snack shopping, especially if you’re looking for local favourites like bhadang, shenga, and papdi. Most shops offer tasting samples, and prices start as low as ₹20 per packet. During festivals like Diwali or Nag Panchami, vendors roll out bundle offers and “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” deals. You’ll find everything from sweet sev to spicy chiwda, all perfect for gifting or munching on-the-go. Many vendors accept UPI payments, which often qualify for instant cashback or scratch card rewards.
- Family-run shops offer festival hampers for ₹100–₹150, making them perfect for gifting without overspending.
- Most items are made fresh daily and sold loose, so you can buy in exact quantities without fixed pack prices.
- During seasonal rushes, sellers often give ₹10 off per kg if you buy in bulk for family or office gifting.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to carry your own cloth bag—many sellers offer an extra ₹5 off if you avoid using plastic.
Budget Accommodation at Dharamshalas
Solapur has numerous dharamshalas and budget lodges that provide clean, basic rooms for ₹150–₹500 per night. These are often located near major temples and transport hubs, reducing your need for daily commuting. Most of them offer basic bedding, hot water, and sometimes even breakfast at no extra charge. If you’re travelling as a family or group, you can often negotiate for lower per-room rates. Many accept digital payments, especially Google Pay or PhonePe, making check-in smooth and transparent. Avoid booking apps—walk-ins or direct calls usually fetch the best prices.
- Shree Vitthal Dharamshala and Laxmi Bhavan near the railway station offer both dorms and private rooms at low cost.
- Some dharamshalas have tie-ups with food vendors and offer vegetarian thalis at ₹40–₹60 per meal.
- Extended stays often come with discounts, especially if you stay more than three days and pay in advance.
Pro Tip: Carry a government ID like Aadhaar for faster check-in and eligibility for locals-only discounted rates.
Conclusion
Solapur may be small, but it's packed with experiences that won't burn a hole in your pocket. From heritage walks to food, shopping, and culture, there's always a budget-friendly version if you know where to look. Let smart planning, Indian wallet offers, and our hacks lead the way to a rewarding trip.
For more Indian travel savings, the latest discount codes, and budget hacks, check out our Solapur travel deals on SavePlus.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Solapur on a budget?
The best time is during post-monsoon and winter (Oct to Feb) when weather is pleasant and travel offers like Diwali Dhamaka Sale are live.
Are there any free tourist attractions in Solapur?
Yes! Places like Siddheshwar Temple, Hutatma Garden, and Bhuikot Fort have little to no entry fees.
Where can I find authentic Solapur bedsheets at discount?
Check Chaddar Market or local mills, especially during festive or clearance sales for the best prices.
How can I save on Solapur hotel stays?
Opt for dharamshalas or budget lodges, and check if they accept UPI payment or cashback offers.
Can I use Paytm or PhonePe in local Solapur markets?
Yes, most vendors now accept digital payments, and many offer cashback or scratch card rewards.