Can I use credit cards everywhere?

No. While big hotels and malls accept cards, 80% of your daily spending in India will be in cash. Always carry smaller denominations.

Is it cheaper to fly or take the train?

Trains are cheaper and more culturally immersive, but if you are short on time, budget flights between major cities can cost as little as $40 if booked two weeks out.

How do I get the best exchange rate?

Use a travel-friendly debit card with no international transaction fees. Withdraw cash from ATMs attached to reputable national banks like HDFC, ICICI, or SBI.

How to budget for backpacking India

Budget for $35 per day if you are staying in hostels, eating local street food, and taking trains. This covers a comfortable 'backpacker' lifestyle, including occasional internal flights and moderate social activities.

Set your daily baseline. Allocate $10 for a dorm bed in a reputable hostel, $15 for three simple meals and bottled water, and $10 for local transport (rickshaws, metro, and train tickets).
Factor in train travel. Book 3AC (third-tier air-conditioned) train tickets at least 2-4 weeks in advance. Budget roughly $15-$20 for a 12-hour overnight journey.
Account for entry fees and extras. India’s major monuments (like the Taj Mahal) have significantly higher foreigner entry fees, often around $15 per site. Budget an extra $5 per day to average out these costs.
Buffer for incidentals. Always keep an emergency buffer of $100 in your account for unexpected medical needs, last-minute flight changes, or private car hires when public transport fails.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?: No. While big hotels and malls accept cards, 80% of your daily spending in India will be in cash. Always carry smaller denominations.
Is it cheaper to fly or take the train?: Trains are cheaper and more culturally immersive, but if you are short on time, budget flights between major cities can cost as little as $40 if booked two weeks out.
How do I get the best exchange rate?: Use a travel-friendly debit card with no international transaction fees. Withdraw cash from ATMs attached to reputable national banks like HDFC, ICICI, or SBI.