Being the largest continent on the planet, Asia is a vast and diverse destination, offering a wide range of travel experiences. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to find affordable destinations that won’t break the bank. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the Cheapest Countires to visit in Asia, taking into account factors such as transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker or simply looking to stretch your travel dollars, these cheap countries are sure to offer a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
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Top 7 Countries to visit on a budget (Asia edition)
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination in Asia, there are plenty of options to choose from. From stunning beaches to rich history and culture, Southeast Asia has it all. Whether you’re a backpacker, a digital nomad, or just on a tight budget, these are the cheapest countries to visit in Asia.
Indonesia
Indonesia is a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia that offers a wide variety of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences. It is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers who want to explore a diverse range of attractions without overspending.
The capital city, Jakarta, is a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional Indonesian culture. However, it can be a bit expensive compared to other cities in the country. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s best to head to other popular tourist destinations such as Bali, Yogyakarta, and Lombok.
Bali is an island paradise that offers stunning beaches, beautiful rice terraces, and traditional Balinese culture. The island is popular among backpackers and budget-conscious travellers as it offers a wide range of affordable accommodation options, including homestays, guesthouses, and hostels. Bali is also known for its delicious food, ranging from street food to traditional Balinese cuisine.
Lombok is another popular destination in Indonesia, offering stunning beaches, waterfalls, coral reefs, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful surrounding Islands such as Gili T. It is less crowded than Bali and offers a more laid-back atmosphere. Lombok is also an excellent place to experience Indonesian culture and cuisine at a budget-friendly price.
When it comes to food, Indonesia offers a wide variety of culinary experiences ranging from street food to traditional dishes such as nasi goreng, rendang, and satay. Street food is a great way to sample local delicacies at an affordable price.
Accommodation in Indonesia is also very affordable, with an average daily cost of $10-20 USD for budget travellers. Hostels, homestays, and guesthouses are all excellent options for budget-conscious travellers.
Average Indonesian daily cost:
$30-50 USD /day
Food:
Low Range – $0.70-$2.20 USD /meal
Mid Range – $3.50-$9.50 USD /meal
Local Beer – $0.70-$2.20 USD
Transport:
Tuk Tuk – $0.40-$5.00 USD /ride
Long-distance bus – $0.25-$14.50 USD
Taxi – $1.50-$7.00 USD
Accommodation:
Hostels – $4.00-$12.00 USD /night
Hotels – $8.50-$25.00 USD /night
Activities:
Guided Tours – $15.00-$25.00 USD /day
Temple and museum entrances – Free – $12.00 USD
Beach activities: $2.50-$17.00 USD /per hour
These prices are an estimate and may vary depending on the location, season, and type of service. By choosing lower-cost options, such as street food and budget accommodation, You can save money and stretch your budget further to explore more of Indonesia.
In conclusion, Indonesia is an excellent travel destination for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience a diverse range of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences.
Check out our complete Guide on Bali, Indonesia Here
Thailand
Thailand is a travel destination that offers a unique blend of affordability, stunning beaches, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. It is a perfect choice for budget travellers who wish to explore Southeast Asia without breaking the bank.
Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, is an excellent starting point for your adventure. The city is packed with world-class tourist attractions, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun. The city also offers a lively nightlife scene with endless options for food, drinks, and entertainment at a low price.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of other popular tourist destinations to explore. Chiang Mai is a laid-back city in Northern Thailand known for its stunning temples, night markets, and cooking classes. Pai is a small town nestled in the mountains, offering a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities such as trekking, hot springs, and waterfalls. Thailand’s tropical Islands of Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and the Phi Phi islands are all popular beach destinations, offering crystal clear waters and divine beaches.
When it comes to food, Thailand is renowned for its delicious street food, which is not only tasty but also very affordable. Street food vendors can be found everywhere, offering a wide variety of dishes made with fresh ingredients such as lemongrass, chilies, and coconut milk. Eating street food is a great way to experience the local culture while keeping your food budget low.
Accommodation in Thailand is also very affordable, with an average daily cost of $5-30 USD. To save money on accommodation, it is best to stay in dorm rooms or private rooms in guest houses instead of hotels. Guesthouses are a great option for budget-conscious travellers as they provide a comfortable and clean place to stay at an affordable price.
Average Thailand Daily Cost:
$20-40 USD /day
Food:
Low Range – $1-3 USD /meal
Mid Range – $5-13 USD/meal
Local Beer $1-3
Transport:
Tuk Tuk – $0.60-7 USD / ride
Long-distance bus – $0.30-20 USD
Taxi – $2-10 USD
Accommodation:
Hostels – $5-17 USD / night
Hotels – $10-30 USD / night
Activities:
Guided Tours – $20-30 USD/ day
Temple and museum entrances – Free – $16
Beach activities – $3-20 USD/ Per Hour
In conclusion, Thailand is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers looking for a unique blend of affordability, stunning beaches, ancient temples, rich cultural heritage, and delicious street food. By staying in guesthouses and eating street food, travellers can experience all that Thailand has to offer without breaking the bank.
Check out our complete Guide on Thailand Here
Cambodia
Cambodia is not only one of the cheapest places to travel to in Asia but one of the cheapest in the world. A great destination for budget travellers and digital nomads, with affordable prices for food, accommodation, transportation, and activities.
Delicious local food can be found in Cambodia for incredibly low prices from local restaurants and street vendors that can create meals that are sure to keep every traveller happy.
Cambodia has a deep history and rich culture that are available to be explored without hurting the budget of any kind of traveller.
The country has numerous historical sites and ancient Buddhist temples, including the most popular, Angkor Wat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Siem reap that must be seen.
Arriving in Cambodia is also very affordable, with many cheap flights available to be caught from major cities around Asia and the world.
Once arrived in Cambodia, Transport is very inexpensive with Tuk Tuks, taxis and buses to be caught at a lower cost, making it very easy to travel across this country on a budget.
Many stunning locations are to be discovered in Cambodia such as the bustling city of Phnom Penh, white-sand beaches down south, and Incredible stretching rivers up north to find laid-back country towns. You can find amazing accommodation in these areas from comfy hotel rooms to
a bungalow by the river for a reasonable price.
Average Daily Cost Cambodia:
$25-35 USD/day
Food:
Low Range – $2-4 USD /meal
Mid Range – $5-15 USD/meal
Transport:
Tuk Tuk – $1-2 USD / ride
Long-distance bus – $10-20 USD
Taxi – $5-10 USD
Accommodation:
Hostels – $5-20 USD / night
Hotels – $10-30 USD / night
Activities:
Guided Tours – $20-30 USD/ day
Temple entrances – Free – $10
Angkor Wat – $37 USD for a one day pass $68 USD for a 3 day pass
Vietnam
Known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Vietnam is a stunning destination to be seen in Southeast Asia. This country offers a variety of budget experiences in beautiful places for every traveller.
The most popular destinations in Vietnam include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, and Nha Trang. Each of these cities offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s culture and history, with plenty of affordable options for food, accommodation, and activities.
Food in Vietnam is both tasty and affordable. From street food stalls to local markets, there are plenty of opportunities to try traditional Vietnamese dishes such as pho, banh mi, and spring rolls at prices that don’t come at too much of an extra cost.
Hire a motorbike or get in a tuk-tuk. Vietnam gives a several easy and convenient ways to get around town and travel to your activities. If travelling from one town to the next, a number of cheap buses and trains are available anytime.
Average daily costs in Vietnam:
$20-40 USD /day
Food:
Low Range – $1-3 USD /meal
Mid Range – $3-8 USD /meal
Local Beer – $0.50-1 USD
Transport:
Motorbike taxi – $0.50-2 USD /ride
City bus – $0.30-0.50 USD
Train – $6-15 USD
Accommodation:
Hostels – $5-15 USD /night
Hotels – $15-30 USD /night
Activities:
Museums – $1-5 USD
City Tours – $10-20 USD
Countryside Tours – $20-40 USD
To save money on food and accommodation, consider staying in hostels or guesthouses and trying street food. Travelling by motorbike taxi or city bus can be an affordable way to get around cities. In addition, taking trains between cities can be a comfortable and affordable option for longer journeys.
Laos
Laos is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, with stunning natural landscapes, a beautiful history, and a relaxed atmosphere. For any nature lovers or travellers who might want to go off the beaten track, Laos offers an affordable destination with plenty to see and do.
Popular tourist destinations in Laos include Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and the 4000 Islands. Each of these cities offers a unique glimpse into Laos culture and history, with varying options of accommodation available for a fraction of a price you’d pay at home.
Food in Laos is both delicious and affordable, with a range of local dishes to try, such as laap, sticky rice, and noodle soups at any local restaurant. The local markets are a great place to find affordable street food and fresh produce.
Travelling around the cities, buses and Tuk Tuks are the most popular options. Minivans, buses, and boats are great for long-distance travel around Laos and can be found very conveniently. If attempting an independent tour in Laos, you can hire a motorbike and see the beautiful landscape by yourself. Prices of these vary depending on the make and model but tend to be very cheap
Average daily costs in Laos:
$15-30 USD /day
Food:
Low Range – $1-3 USD /meal
Mid Range – $3-8 USD /meal
Local Beer – $1-2 USD
Transport:
Tuk Tuk – $0.50-5 USD /ride
City bus – $0.30-0.50 USD
Bicycle rental – $1-3 USD/day
Motorbike rental – $5 /day
Accommodation:
Hostels – $5-15 USD /night
Guesthouses – $10-25 USD /night
Activities:
Temples – $2-5 USD
Countryside Tours – $15-30 USD
Waterfall Tours – $20-40 USD
To save money on food and accommodation, consider staying in hostels or guesthouses and trying street food. Travelling by tuk-tuk or bicycle can be an affordable way to get around cities and towns. In addition, joining a group tour or hiring a local guide can be an affordable way to explore Laos’ countryside and natural wonders.
India
India is a large and diverse country that offers an incredible amount of experiences for travellers on a tight budget. With its rich history and culture that can be found at the country’s numerous historic sites and monuments at a budget price. It’s not to be missed on your travels.
From small colourful towns to major cities, India offers an abundance of cheap destinations.
New Delhi can offer modern amenities while small towns and villages can provide a glimpse into authentic local life. The country boasts its natural beauty in many areas and all can be travelled to and stayed at for a small cost.
India has some of the most popular attractions, including the Taj Mahal. A wonder on every travellers bucket list not to be missed. There are plenty more ancient fortresses and palaces to be discovered all across the country.
The cost of transport in India can range depending on which transport you choose. Domestic flights, buses, trains, taxis, and Tuk Tuks are available at an affordable rate.
Street food and small eateries can be found selling delicious local meals in most locations you” find on your travels through India. Many amazing dishes of Butter Chicken, Biryani and, Samosas can be found very cheaply.
Average daily cost in India:
$20-30 USD/day
Food:
Street food – $1-2 USD /meal
Up-market Restaurant – $5-10 USD / meal
Accommodation:
Hostels and Guesthouses – $5-10 USD
Hotels – $15-30 USD /night
Transport:
Buses – $1-2 USD
Trains – $1-20 USD
Domestic Flight – $30-200 USD One way
Activities:
Tours – $5-20 USD
Adventure Activities – $10-70 USD
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travellers looking for an affordable and adventurous trip. This island country located in South Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean, offers a wide range of experiences for travellers on a tight budget, from stunning beaches and lush green landscapes to ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.
When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from, including guesthouses, homestays, and budget hotels. These options typically offer clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities at reasonable prices. Hostels are also starting to become more popular in Sri Lanka, offering affordable dormitory-style accommodation for travellers on a tight budget.
As for food, Sri Lanka is known for its delicious cuisine, which is both varied and affordable. Some must-try dishes include fresh seafood, a wide range of curries, hoppers, and kottu roti. There are plenty of street food vendors and local restaurants where you can enjoy a tasty meal for a fraction of the price of a fancy restaurant.
When it comes to transport, buses, and trains are the most popular and affordable options for getting around the country. While they may not be the most comfortable or fastest modes of transport, they are certainly the most budget-friendly. Tuk-tuks are also a popular way to get around, especially for shorter journeys, and they’re relatively cheap too.
When planning your itinerary, be sure to include some of Sri Lanka’s popular destinations that won’t hurt your wallet. These include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the temple of the tooth in Kandy, the Sigiriya rock fortress, the picturesque town of Ella, and the coastal towns of Mirissa and Tangalle. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in these destinations, such as hiking, visiting temples, and enjoying the beaches.
Average daily cost Sri Lanka:
$20-40 USD /day
Food:
Street food – $1-5 USD /meal
Up-market Restaurant – $5-20 USD / meal
Local beer – $1-3
Accommodation:
Hostels and Guesthouses – $6-18 USD
Hotels – $20-40 USD /night
Transport:
Tuk Tuk – $4-20 USD
Buses – $0.10-2 USD
Trains = $1-10 USD
Activities:
Historical sites and Cultural attractions – $2-20 USD
Safari and other adventure activities – $50-70 USD
Sri Lanka is a great budget-friendly destination that offers plenty of exciting experiences for travellers on a tight budget. With affordable accommodation, delicious food, and affordable transport options, you can enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank.
For a Complete Guide on Sri Lanka Click Here
Conclusion
This guide to the cheapest countries to visit in Asia should leave you with hope knowing you can have a long and enjoyable journey without having to stress about your budget everyday. Not everyone can afford beachside villas but there’s more enough to be seen in Asia on a dime. With this knowledge we hope to inspire others to experience the wonders of the world and let you know it doesn’t have to be expensive.
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