Travel Budget for Himachal Pradesh Visit Himachal Pradesh on a Budget or Travel in Style

Himachal Pradesh, India
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Himachal Pradesh is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Himachal Pradesh?

You should plan to spend around $492 (₨42,067) per day on your vacation in Himachal Pradesh. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $222 (₨18,983) on meals
  • $38 (₨3,276) on local transportation
  • $390 (₨33,291) on hotels

A one week trip to Himachal Pradesh for two people costs, on average, $6,892 (₨588,938). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $492
    ₨42,067
  • One Week Per person
    $3,446
    ₨294,469
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $6,892
    ₨588,938
  • One Month Per person
    $14,769
    ₨1,262,010
  • One Week For a couple
    $6,892
    ₨588,938
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $13,785
    ₨1,177,876
  • One Month For a couple
    $29,539
    ₨2,524,020
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Himachal Pradesh cost?

A one week trip to Himachal Pradesh usually costs around $3,446 (₨294,469) for one person and $6,892 (₨588,938) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Himachal Pradesh on average costs around $6,892 (₨588,938) for one person and $13,785 (₨1,177,876) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Himachal Pradesh will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Himachal Pradesh on average costs around $14,769 (₨1,262,010) for one person and $29,539 (₨2,524,020) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Himachal Pradesh expensive to visit?

Himachal Pradesh is a smaller destination that charms visitors with a variety of travel styles, expenditure habits, and budgetary considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

Although Himachal Pradesh can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $136 (₨11,653) per day, mid-range travelers spend $492 (₨42,067) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $2,092 (₨178,751) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Himachal Pradesh.

Within Asia, Himachal Pradesh is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in Asia for its travel costs. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Himachal Pradesh.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Himachal Pradesh Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Himachal Pradesh?

The average Himachal Pradesh trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Himachal Pradesh travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Himachal Pradesh cost?

Himachal Pradesh on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$52
(₨4,416) 		$195
(₨16,646) 		$861
(₨73,570)
Local Transportation1 $10
(₨848) 		$38
(₨3,276) 		$173
(₨14,777)
Food2 $65
(₨5,554) 		$222
(₨18,983) 		$894
(₨76,363)
Entertainment1 $24
(₨2,032) 		$99
(₨8,447) 		$473
(₨40,376)
Alcohol2 $2-7
(₨195-586) 		$9-28
(₨788-2,363) 		$43-129
(₨3,681-11,044)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Himachal Pradesh with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $136 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. It's common for visitors to Himachal Pradesh to seek out the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $492 per person, per day.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

If you envision a trip that covers everything with high-end amenities and top-tier service, be ready for a daily expense near $2,092. Enjoying nicer hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, participating in extravagant activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination will require a premium budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Luxury Family Adventure + rafting by the Ganges - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Himachal Pradesh

In Himachal Pradesh, hotel prices can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more amenities and luxury, but come at a higher price tag, especially during the peak season. Off-season prices average around $, but in peak season, they can average around $. Prices generally range from $ to $, and hostels remain the cheaper option. Booking early or traveling during the low season can save you money, and you might find special deals along the way.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Himachal Pradesh for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $390 (₨33,291). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $195 (₨16,646) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $195
    ₨16,646
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $390
    ₨33,291

Hotels in Himachal Pradesh

Looking for a hotel in Himachal Pradesh? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Himachal Pradesh

If you plan your trip outside of and during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better accommodation rates and fewer tourists.



Transportation Budget in Himachal Pradesh

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $38 (₨3,276) per person, per day, on local transportation in Himachal Pradesh. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Himachal Pradesh is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $38
    ₨3,276

The geographical location of the state makes transportation somewhat difficult. By plane, the main airports in Himachal Pradesh include the Kangra Airport (serving Dharamsala), Shimla Airport, and Kullu-Manali Airport - all which offer flights to and from Delhi.

There is very little rail connection except for the Kalka-Shimla railway track which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bus is probably the most practical and cheapest way to enter the region with three routes coming from Delhi:

Delhi-Chandigarh-Shimla-Kaza

Delhi-Chandigarh-Bilaspur-Mandi-Manali-Keylong-Leh

Delhi-Chandigarh-Kangra-Dharamsala or -Chamba

A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Affordable Chandigarh to Manali Transfer for $98 details
  • Affordable Dehradun Airport Transfer. For $15 details
  • Affordable transfer from Rishikesh to Dehradun Airport for $20 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Himachal Pradesh
How much does it cost to go to Himachal Pradesh? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Himachal Pradesh
The price of renting a car in Himachal Pradesh will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Himachal Pradesh

Cuisine is one of the main reasons people travel, so don't miss out on the local fare.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Himachal Pradesh can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Himachal Pradesh is $222 (₨18,983) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $222
    ₨18,983

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Himachal Pradesh is around $222 (₨18983) per person, with previous travelers spending from $65 to $894. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Himachal Pradesh are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $22 to $67
  • Lunch: $33 to $89
  • Dinner: $67 to $156
  • Coffee: $18
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $33

Cuisine of the Himachal Pradesh region is simple but nutritious, consisting largely of chicken and mutton with vegetables which include pumpkins, potatoes, beans, and beetroots. Some staple meals of the region include thukpa (noodle soup usually with chicken and vegetables), skyu (thumb-sized pieces of kneaded dough cooked in a kind of soup), and momos (dumplings). Other specialties comprise of khambir (a whole wheat local bread baked into a pan shape), butter tea (salty tea churned with butter), and chang (a light local brew of beer). These dishes are common throughout the mountainous regions of the Himalayas. Momos are a popular street food, served steamed or fried and stuffed with spiced potato, cabbage, spinach, radish, or carrot with chili sauce on the side. Any of the noodle dishes are also staples. Any of the popular destinations will have a variety of dining options from traditional to international flavors.

Food & Dining Tips

Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.

Instead of constantly buying drinks, bring along a water bottle. It's also great for the planet.

If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.

If you want to experience the culture in Himachal Pradesh, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Sattvic Cooking Classes - Cook & Eat Indian Food Like a Local! For $50 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Himachal Pradesh

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Himachal Pradesh typically cost an average of $99 (₨8,447) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $99
    ₨8,447

With its close proximity to the Himalayas, the state of Himachal Pradesh is not lacking in striking mountain scenery with charming hills and valleys. Dalhousie, located in the western part of the state, is a hill station famed for such a backdrop. The area actually consists of five hills called Balun, Tehra, Kathlog, Patreyn, and Bakrota - all with churches and quaint colonial architecture. Kullu Valley is also known for its scenery, situated along the banks of the Beas River. Also known as "Vally of the Gods," Kullu is home to a number of ancient temples and festivals as well as a handicraft culture of woven wool products. Spiti Valley and Lahul Valley are also very scenic with rolling foothills and temples of their own.

There is plenty to see in the urban areas of the state as well. Shimla, the state capital, is best known for Jakhu Temple which offers mountain views from its location just above town. This temple, populated by monkeys, is said to be the place in the Ramayana where the monkey god, Hanuman, rested during his journey to the Himalaya Mountains. The Ridge offers another view over the city, and is also a hub for the cultural and social scene. Another popular center of activity is The Mall, which has shops, restaurants, bars, and more.



At the base of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a popular base camp region for trekking, climbing, and skiing amidst the rugged terrain of the tallest mountains in the world. Visitors are also attracted to the region to learn about the Buddhist religion. There are many cultural and religious sites to visit, where anyone can attend worship or even classes about Buddhism. Some of the cities, like Dharamsala, offer lessons in the studies of yoga, meditation, healing practices, paragliding, cooking, and thangka painting. Many others also come to Dharamsala to meet, or at least see, the Dalai Lama. To meet "His Holiness" is a spiritual experience for Buddhists and memorable to all who respect the religion. It is not always easy to have this chance as the Dalai Lama travels frequently and private audiences are carefully chosen (applicants must supply detailed information about themselves and why they wish to see "His Holiness"). He does give scheduled public teachings, though they are often crowded.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Himachal Pradesh. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • All Inclusive Private Taj Mahal & Agra Tour from Delhi by Car for $4 details
  • Hilloferry - a guided cycling tour for $12 details
  • Private Walking Tour in Rishikesh for $18 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Himachal Pradesh

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $18 (₨1,575) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Himachal Pradesh per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $18
    ₨1,575
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.



Travel cost data last updated: Feb 25, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Himachal Pradesh

  • Prices often increase and the destination becomes more congested during peak season in . For a more affordable and less crowded experience, consider traveling in the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Traveling at a more relaxed pace can save you money while you take in the stunning beauty around you. When you fill each day with activities, your expenses can soar. But by slowing down and enjoying the journey, you usually spend less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • There aren't many public transportation options in Himachal Pradesh. Organizing another form of transport, like a tour or private driver, might be necessary. Just know that this could stretch your budget in other places.
  • There aren't many hostels in Himachal Pradesh, so if you're hoping for a budget dorm, it's best to rethink your plans. Instead, look for inexpensive hotels or an apartment rental.
Traveling in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh

With a name that translates to "abode of snow," Himachal Pradesh is a state in north-western India with opportunities for experiencing the Himalaya mountain range. Visitors come to the region to experience the mountain scenery, engage in Tibetan culture, and learn about the region's ancient past.



Regions

Himachel Pradesh is generally divided into twelve districts - Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Lahul and Spiti, Mandi, Sirmaur, Shimla, Solan, and Una. Its state capital is Shimla, a popular summer destination nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Other popular hubs include the small town of Bir for its Tibetan community and Buddhist monasteries, Dalhousie for its Victorian charm, Dharamsala as the home of the Dalai Lama and India's largest Tibetan communtity, and Manali as a hill station close to the mountains. Jogindernagar, Keylong, and Bilaspur are also well-visited locations in Himachel Pradesh as well as Sundernagar and Mandi.

Related:

Looking for a hostel in Delhi or Goa? Heading to Kathmandu or want a party in Tel Aviv?

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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