10 Budget Semester Break Trips for Indian Students

Best Abroad Vacations for Indian College Students

To help you make an informed decision, go through this detailed guide to some of the best affordable destinations abroad for college students. This guide includes important details related to the country’s entry requirements, visa queries, flight and accommodation details, and popular attractions to plan your itinerary around.

Thailand

The Land of Smiles is almost the first country that comes to mind when we think of an international trip without draining all our savings. Thailand is perfect for Indian students who want to spend 4, 6, 10 or even a month. Plenty of cheap hostels, work and internships are available here, and with a little planning, spending quality time is very much possible.

• Visa: Thailand is among the countries offering visas on arrival to Indians. You can get a Thai visa on arrival for 15 days. For longer stays, you can apply for a tourist visa.
• Visa Approval Time: Visa on arrival is issued at the airport. For a tourist visa, it usually takes 3-5 working days.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 22,000-37,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget hostels start at INR 800 per night.
• Attractions: Explore the temples in Bangkok, relax on the beautiful beaches in Phuket, and visit Chiang Mai's stunning old town.
• Activities: Enjoy street food, go island hopping, and experience Thai culture and traditions.

Thailand is a paradise for budget travellers. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the islands, every experience is unique and affordable. Just don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Thailand once everything has been planned. It will keep you safe from any unexpected costs in case of emergencies.

Vietnam

Slowly but surely gaining popularity among students and budget travellers, Vietnam also offers easy entry to Indians for up to 30 days. It is lined with stellar beaches, shopping avenues and colonial attractions that will need more than your semester break to cover!

• Visa: Indian citizens can enter Vietnam and get a visa on arrival. They can also apply for a Vietnam visa in case they want to work or pursue an internship in Vietnam.
• Visa Approval Time: VoA issued at the airport. It takes about 3-5 working days to process a pre-approved visa for other purposes.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 29,000-44,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget accommodations start at INR 750 per night.
• Attractions: Explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruise through Halong Bay, and visit the ancient town of Hoi An.
• Activities: Try Vietnamese street food, go trekking in Sapa, and immerse yourself in local culture.

Known for its unpredictable weather and high traffic accidents rate, be protected at all times by buying Vietnam travel insurance. It covers all medical and hospitalisation expenses as well as many stay-related emergency expenses.

Sri Lanka

Known for fantastic beaches, plantations and temples, Sri Lanka remains one of the closest places to visit from India. Students can spend quality time here without exceeding their budget. Its historical significance as Ceylon attracts many tourists thanks to eight World Heritage sites along with endless natural attractions.

• Visa: Earlier, Indians needed an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online for a stay of up to 30 days. Now, Sri Lanka is visa-free for Indians until March 31, 2024.
• Visa Approval Time: ETA approval is usually instant.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 15,000-30,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget guesthouses start at USD 15 (INR 1,100) per night.
• Attractions: Visit the historic city of Kandy, explore the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, and relax on the pristine beaches of Mirissa.
• Activities: Experience Sri Lankan cuisine, go on a train ride through the scenic tea plantations, and discover wildlife in national parks.

Sri Lanka's rich culture and breath-taking landscapes make it an ideal budget destination. The food is delicious, and you can find inexpensive guesthouses everywhere. Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before heading out to Sri Lanka. While the country is very close to India, it is a great way to ensure your safety from many emergencies.

Nepal

India’s friendly neighbour, Nepal, offers brilliant experiences to all kinds of visitors. For students, Nepal can be a great place to either party or explore nature. Nepal is budget-friendly, accessible and offers a lot of fun activities. It is also among the countries to take an international road trip from India. If you are on a college break, then this can be a great experience, combined with endless things to do in Nepal.

• Visa: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 11,000-22,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Hostels, hotels etc., start at INR 600 per day on a sharing basis. 
• Attractions: Trek to Everest Base Camp, explore the Kathmandu Valley and visit the serene town of Pokhara.
• Activities: Go trekking in the Himalayas, experience Nepali cuisine, and participate in adventure sports.

Nepal offers a unique blend of adventure and spirituality. Trekking in the Himalayas is an unforgettable experience, and the cost of living is very low. Nepal is among the best places to visit for students who don’t want any visa or document formality. However, if you plan to trek or hike, then mandatory travel health insurance policy will be required. It will also keep you safe from any emergency costs due to cancelled hotels, delayed flights or medical care in Nepal.

Malaysia

A wholesome mix of modernity and tradition, Malaysia is another neighbouring country that Indians love visiting. From tall skyscrapers to breath-taking beaches and plantations, Malaysia is perfect for students who want to have an international holiday without breaking the bank.

• Visa: Indian citizens can get an eVisa for Malaysia, which is usually processed within 48 hours. Single entry eVisa for Malaysia for Indians allows a stay for up to 30 days. The eNTRI is valid for 15 days to 3 months.
• Average Flight Price: INR 26,000-44,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Hostels, shared hotels and guesthouses start at INR 1,500 per night.
• Attractions: Visit the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, explore the UNESCO-listed George Town, and relax on the beaches of Langkawi.
• Activities: Sample Malaysian street food, go shopping in Kuala Lumpur and explore rainforests.

You May Also Like to Read: Travel Insurance for Malaysia

Cambodia

With a valid Indian passport, you can easily plan a vacation in Cambodia from India. This is another charming country full of historical monuments, beautiful villages, happening cities and sunny beaches. Any student who wants a full package of nature, fun, food, shopping and weather can head straight to Cambodia!

• Visa: Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival in Cambodia for 30 days.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 22,000-37,600
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget hostels start at INR 600 per night.
• Attractions: Visit the Angkor Wat complex, explore Phnom Penh's history, and relax in the coastal town of Sihanoukville.
• Activities: Discover the Khmer cuisine, explore local markets, and engage in cultural experiences.

The temples of Angkor Wat are simply mesmerising. Cambodia is a budget-friendly destination with affordable accommodations and cheap, tasty street food.

Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a dream destination for students who simply want a sunny summer vacation. The country has a lot of unexplored areas, along with well-developed areas offering all amenities. Don’t forget some iconic temples and historical sites amidst all that beach hopping!

• Visa: Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival for 30 days if visiting Bali.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 29,000-44,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget accommodations start at INR 1,100 per night and cheaper accommodation is available through hostels and homestays.
• Attractions: Explore Bali's beaches, visit the temples in Yogyakarta, and discover the culture of Jakarta.
• Activities: Enjoy water sports in Bali, experience Indonesian cuisine, and visit the Komodo dragons in Flores.

Dubai, UAE 

While the UAE feels a bit too expensive for students, Dubai is one state that offers affordable getaways if done right. Thanks to huge Indian diaspora, Dubai is a welcoming place for Indian college students who want a taste of great infrastructure and luxury.

• Visa: Indian citizens can apply for a tourist visa for the UAE, which is usually processed within 3-4 working days.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 18,700-51,000.
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget hotels start at INR 3,700) per night. However, see if you have any friends, relatives or acquaintances who can host your stay!
• Attractions: Visit the Burj Khalifa, explore the historic Al Fahidi district, and shop in Dubai's famous malls.
• Activities: Go on desert safaris, experience Middle Eastern cuisine, and indulge in luxury experiences.

While Dubai is known for luxury, you can still enjoy it on a budget. Explore the city's many free attractions, dine at local eateries, and take advantage of the city's efficient metro system.

You May Also Like to Read: Travel Insurance for Dubai

Turkey

For a true Mediterranean experience, Turkey is like a dream for history buffs. The country also has unique natural attractions to offer, including the mud baths of Dalyan and the Cotton castles of Pamukkale. While this country will tip towards expensive, some savings and elaborate planning will make this an experience you will never forget!

Visa: Indian citizens can get an eVisa for Turkey, which is processed within 48 hours.

• Average Flight Price: INR 36,200-51,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget hotels start at INR 1,500 per night. You can look up homestays, hosts and hostels.
• Attractions: Visit the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, explore the ancient city of Ephesus, and relax in Cappadocia.
• Activities: Savor Turkish delights, explore local markets, and indulge in Turkish baths.

Quick note, if you plan to head to Turkey, then don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Turkey from India. It is required as per the government guidelines and will keep you protected from a lot of financial emergencies during your stay in Turkey.

Egypt

Home to the Pharaohs is definitely a distant but great destination for students who have some extra time on their hands. This place is a must-visit for history buffs who can’t get enough of ancient and forgotten places. For students who want to visit the country of mummies, Egypt provides a mesmerising and thrilling experience. Just buy travel insurance for Egypt before coming here, and you are ready to explore!

• Visa: Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival in Egypt for 30 days.
• Average Flight Price*: INR 31,300-49,000
• Accommodation Expenses: Budget hotels start at INR 1,500 per night.
• Attractions: Explore the pyramids in Giza, visit Luxor's temples, and sail down the Nile River.
• Activities: Try authentic Egyptian cuisine, haggle in local bazaars, and discover ancient history.

*Prices may vary depending on tourist season and time of booking.

Travel Tips for Students

Life as a student is really a great time, with a lot of time and fewer burdens at hand. Thankfully, most countries have great discounts for students, be it galleries, museums or even stays. Here are some great way to cut your cost further while going abroad on your trip:

• Flight Booking: Book flights well in advance and consider using fare comparison websites to find the best deals. Many airlines and flight-booking apps offer discounts to full-time students.
• Accommodation: Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. You can also consider couch surfing by connecting with locals.
• Local Cuisine: Try street food and local eateries for budget-friendly meals. Watch out for happy hours!
• Public Transportation: Use public transport, walk, or rent bicycles to save on transportation costs. You can also invest in travel cards if you plan to go for a week or longer.
• Use Student ID for Discounts: Carry your student ID to access discounts on entrance fees and transportation. Most countries offer concessions to student tourists.
• Plan in Advance: Create a detailed itinerary to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Over to You, 

By choosing one of these budget-friendly destinations and following the provided tips, you can have an amazing and affordable semester break abroad. Explore the world, make memories, and broaden your horizons without breaking the bank. Just don’t forget to buy a suitable international travel insurance plan for wherever you are headed. It will protect you from any abrupt money-draining emergencies that may affect you during the trip!