India on a budget

Cheapest months to go

Peak is November, December, January, February, March. The weeks either side of that window usually carry most of the weather with much less of the price.

Getting around for less

Realistic options in India:

• Indian Railways covers the country cheaply and comprehensively; book reserved classes well ahead
• Domestic flights are inexpensive and save days on long north–south legs
• Hired car with driver is the standard way to cover Rajasthan or Kerala comfortably
• Ride-hailing apps and auto-rickshaws handle city travel; agree fares or use the meter
• Overnight trains and buses are normal for long routes but allow buffer time for delays

Where to base yourself

Fewer bases means fewer paid transfers. Delhi, Agra & the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan cover a lot between them.