Uttarakhand, which is known as Devbhoomi, is one of the famous beautiful cities of India. If you are a nature lover or you believe in spirituality or want to satisfy your passion for adventure, then Uttarakhand is the best destination for all these things. The month of December is the best to experience the snow-clad mountains, calm mountains and the peaceful attraction of hill stations of Uttarakhand. If your financial condition prevents you from traveling, then you can travel here with affordable destinations. In this article, we will give you travel tips on how you can travel to Uttarakhand on a low budget even in the month of December and how you can save your money.
1. Travel Planning
If you are planning to travel to Uttarakhand in the month of December, then you must plan for it in advance. You can also get discounts on booking trains, buses or flights in advance. The best option for you is the train which will save your cost.
- Train Travel: There is a good arrangement of railway routes to go to Uttarakhand, due to which you can reach major stations like Haridwar, Dehradun, Kathgodam very easily. Sleeper class on the train is the best option keeping in mind your budget.
- Bus Travel: To reach most of the hill stations of Uttarakhand, there are government and private buses available which are budget friendly. If you want to catch a bus, you can take a direct bus from ISBT Anand Vihar which will be helpful in going to Dehradun, Nainital, Mussoorie and Rishikesh.
2. Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Staying is an important part of our travel in which we have to look at our budget. But, in Uttarakhand you get an affordable stay along with an affordable destination.
- Homestays: Homestays are a very economical and good option for you, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. In places like Mussoorie, Nainital, Almora, you will find many homestays which will be available to you in the range of just ₹500-₹1000 per night.
- Guesthouses and Dharamshalas: If you are looking for a religious or peaceful place for your stay, then many Dharamshalas and guest houses are available for you in Haridwar and Rishikesh at very affordable rates.
- Backpacker Hostels: In modern environments, today’s generation of backpackers prefer hostels, which are available in the range of ₹300-₹700 per night. You will find chains like Zostel, goSTOPS at affordable rates in Dehradun, Rishikesh and Mussoorie.
3. Cheap Destinations to Explore in Uttarakhand
There are many cheap travel destinations in Uttarakhand where you can travel on a low budget. Whether you want to explore the valleys or enjoy the snow or enjoy nature, you can get all these in a budget-friendly way in the month of December.
a) Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known as “The Yoga Capital “ and people who visit here like to travel here for mental peace and spiritual growth. The weather here is a bit chilly in December but the experience here is no less than magic. Here one can experience rafting, trekking and staying in ashrams at very affordable rates. Options for staying in ashrams are available at very cheap rates and there are also budget-friendly restaurants in the city that provide you affordable food.
b) Mussoorie
Mussoorie which is known as “The Queen of Hills” is best to experience a magical snow in the month of December. It is one of the most popular affordable destinations of Uttarakhand, where you can easily get hotels and homestays at budget-friendly rates. You can explore places like Gun Hill Point, Kempty Falls and Mall Road here at an affordable cost.
c) Nainital
Nainital is a popular tourist destination but the charm of Nainital becomes more attractive in the month of December when it snows here. If you want to enjoy boating near Naini Lake or explore points like eco cave gardens, all this can be done at a very cheap cost. The rates of guesthouses and hotels for stay here are high in December but if you book in advance then you can get a good discount in rates.
d) Almora
If you are thinking of exploring offbeat and peaceful destinations of Uttarakhand, then Almora will be the best choice for you. This is a small town, where beauty and cultural heritage are the center of attraction. Budget-friendly hotels and lodges are easily available in Almora. The temperature here is quite low in the month of December, so you can enjoy peace and solitude here.
e) Auli
Auli is famous as a skiing destination, and if you are fond of adventure then this place would be best for the month of December. Auli is one of the best affordable destinations in Uttarakhand, where you can easily explore budget-friendly accommodations. You will also get skiing lessons and equipment rent in a low budget.
4. Local Transportation
When you are travelling on a low budget, the cost of local transportation is also a very important deal. In Uttarakhand, local buses are quite cheap and convenient. You can also choose the option of travelling by public buses between Dehradun, Nainital, Mussoorie and Haridwar, which is much cheaper than taxis or private cabs.
- Shared Cabs: If you want to travel around hill stations then shared cabs are a good and best option, which will help you manage your budget through cost-sharing.
- Walking and Trekking: Uttarakhand is quite famous for trekking, and there are many travel destinations where you can do long walks or short treks without any extra expense. This is not only a budget-friendly option, but also brings you closer to nature.
Read more… Best Affordable Destinations for Travel in December 2024
5. Food on a Budget
You get very cheap and tasty local food from Uttarakhand. Local dhabas and street food stalls provide you a complete meal in less money. At places like Rishikesh and Haridwar, you will get healthy and fulfilling meals for ₹100-₹150.
- Thalis: Vegetarian thali available in local restaurants and dhabas gives you delicious meals at a low cost. These are available in the range of ₹50-₹100 which will be budget-friendly for you.
- Street Food: In places like Mussoorie and Nainital, you can enjoy street food like chaat, momos and maggi at low cost.
Conclusion: Explore Uttarakhand on a Budget
If you want to travel to Uttarakhand in December without spending too much, this is absolutely possible. With the right planning, affordable accommodation options and local transportation, you can explore Uttarakhand at a budget-friendly cost. These cheap travel destinations and affordable destinations will give you a memorable experience, without putting too much pressure on your wallet.
