Asia is one of the most fascinating continents to explore, full of diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories. For travelers on a budget, Asia offers some of the most affordable yet rewarding destinations in the world. Whether you’re looking for tropical beaches, mountainous retreats, or bustling cities, there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the cheapest countries to travel in Asia, with an estimated budget to help you plan your trip.
Vietnam
Vietnam has become a favorite among budget travelers due to its affordability and range of experiences, from the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay and the lantern-lit city of Hoi An. It’s known for delicious street food, historical sites, and picturesque landscapes at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $5–$20 for hostels and budget hotels.
- Food: $2–$10 for street food or budget-friendly restaurants.
- Transportation: $0.50–$10, depending on mode (buses, motorbikes, taxis).
- Activities: $5–$15 for entrance fees, tours, etc.
Total: $12–$55 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Hanoi: Affordable street food and cultural spots.
- Hoi An: Historic architecture and affordable shopping.
- Ha Long Bay: Budget-friendly tours if booked through local agencies.
Vietnam’s unique landscapes and culture mean you can travel widely while keeping your budget minimal. Look for local guesthouses and “phở” vendors to keep costs low.
Cambodia
Known for the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is a fantastic country for budget travelers, combining affordability with deep history and natural beauty. Despite its popular sites, Cambodia remains accessible even for those on a tight budget.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $4–$15 for budget hostels or guesthouses.
- Food: $1–$6 for local dishes and street food.
- Transportation: $1–$10 (tuk-tuks, buses).
- Activities: $2–$15, with temple passes adding to the cost.
Total: $10–$46 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor Wat and vibrant local markets.
- Phnom Penh: Museums and the Royal Palace on a shoestring.
- Sihanoukville: Cheap seaside relaxation with budget beach accommodations.
If you’re planning on exploring temples, consider spreading visits over a few days to avoid extra costs. A three-day pass for Angkor Wat costs around $62 but is well worth the investment for history lovers.
Laos
Laos offers tranquil natural settings and a laid-back lifestyle. This landlocked country is often overlooked, but it’s incredibly budget-friendly with its mountains, rivers, and stunning Buddhist temples.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $5–$20 for dorms and basic guesthouses.
- Food: $1.50–$5 for meals at local eateries.
- Transportation: $1–$10 for buses, tuk-tuks, and bikes.
- Activities: $5–$15 for attractions, trekking, and cave visits.
Total: $12.50–$50 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Luang Prabang: Affordable temples, waterfalls, and markets.
- Vang Vieng: Stunning landscapes, tubing on the river, and hiking trails.
- Vientiane: Laid-back capital with budget-friendly cultural sites.
With a strong backpacking culture, Laos is one of the easiest places to stretch a budget, especially with its street markets and abundant local cuisine.
India
India is a destination where you can travel on a tight budget yet still enjoy an incredibly rich experience. From bustling cities to rural villages, and from beaches to mountains, India offers some of the world’s most economical travel options.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $3–$15 for budget hotels or hostels.
- Food: $1–$5 for local food at street stalls or dhabas.
- Transportation: $1–$8 (trains, buses, tuk-tuks).
- Activities: $2–$15, with entrance fees to some historic sites.
Total: $7–$43 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Goa: Beach paradise with cheap stays and affordable nightlife.
- Rajasthan: Explore the Pink City (Jaipur) and Udaipur on a budget.
- Himachal Pradesh: Mountain towns like Manali are accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Train travel, local guesthouses, and street food will help stretch your money here, while cities like Delhi and Mumbai offer an affordable gateway to both history and urban life.
Nepal
Nepal is an ideal choice for adventurous travelers on a budget. Known for its Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest, Nepal is inexpensive and offers outdoor adventures and vibrant local culture.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $3–$10 for budget stays or trekking lodges.
- Food: $2–$5 at local eateries or trekking teahouses.
- Transportation: $1–$10 (buses, taxis).
- Activities: $2–$20, with trekking permits adding to costs.
Total: $8–$45 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Kathmandu: Affordable guesthouses, temples, and markets.
- Pokhara: Lakeside city popular with trekkers and adventure seekers.
- Trekking Routes: The Annapurna Circuit offers inexpensive teahouses along the trail.
Trekking permits range from $20 to $50 depending on the region. With low-cost accommodation and food options, Nepal’s expenses remain moderate, especially if you travel during off-peak trekking seasons.
Indonesia
Indonesia’s 17,000 islands offer limitless adventure at reasonable prices. Bali is popular, but other areas, like Java and Sumatra, are even more affordable, making Indonesia a cheap destination for those looking to island-hop on a budget.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $5–$15 for guesthouses or hostels.
- Food: $1–$5 for local street food and warungs (local diners).
- Transportation: $1–$8 for buses, ferries, and motorbike rentals.
- Activities: $2–$15 for national parks, temples, and beaches.
Total: $9–$43 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Yogyakarta: Historic sites like Borobudur with cheap stays and meals.
- Bali (outside tourist hubs): Affordable beach towns away from the main tourist hotspots.
- Sumatra: Diverse nature experiences, including orangutan trekking.
Sticking to local eateries and using budget accommodation options will ensure that even popular islands like Bali remain budget-friendly.
The Philippines
The Philippines is a tropical paradise that’s surprisingly affordable if you plan carefully. While some areas are geared toward tourists, lesser-known islands offer incredible experiences without the price tag.
Estimated Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $5–$20 for budget hostels or guesthouses.
- Food: $2–$6 for meals at local eateries.
- Transportation: $1–$15 for ferries, buses, and jeepneys.
- Activities: $2–$20 for diving, island-hopping, and entrance fees.
Total: $10–$61 per day
Top Affordable Destinations
- Cebu: Great for beaches, diving, and budget-friendly street food.
- Palawan: Islands like Coron and El Nido offer affordable beach getaways.
- Siargao: Ideal for surfing and nature at affordable rates.
Island-hopping and public transport are affordable here, while local food keeps dining expenses low.
Estimated Budget Summary
| Country | Low-End (Daily) | High-End (Daily) |
|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | $12 | $55 |
| Cambodia | $10 | $46 |
| Laos | $12.50 | $50 |
| India | $7 | $43 |
| Nepal | $8 | $45 |
| Indonesia | $9 | $43 |
| The Philippines | $10 | $61 |
These budget ranges will help you enjoy a meaningful and affordable trip through some of Asia’s most fascinating countries. Remember, choosing local accommodations, traveling during off-peak seasons, and embracing street food are surefire ways to stretch your travel budget even further.