This hidden southeast Asian gem lets Indians travel abroad for under Rs 2,000 a day—and it’s absolutely stunning!

Travel to Laos, Southeast Asia’s hidden paradise, for under Rs 2,000/day! Discover temples, rivers, street food & serene landscapes on a budget.

Ever dreamed of travelling internationally without burning a hole in your wallet? Step into Laos, Southeast Asia’s hidden gem, where under Rs 2,000 a day lets you experience stunning landscapes, golden temples, serene rivers, and vibrant local culture. Nestled between Thailand, Vietnam, and China, Laos converts Indian Rupees into nearly 245 Lao Kip—meaning even a modest budget goes a long way. With just Rs 50,000, you can enjoy a week of affordable adventure, local flavours, and peaceful escapes.

Laos isn’t just a bargain—it’s a sensory wonderland. With emerald forests, serene rivers, timeless villages, and vibrant local culture, it’s a country that invites you to slow down, breathe, and truly soak in your surroundings. Despite having no coastline, Laos has an enchanting rhythm of life that feels worlds away from crowded tourist trails.

Laos shares deep historical ties with India. After Emperor Ashoka’s Kalinga war, migrants from southern India passed through Assam and Manipur, eventually settling in parts of Indochina. Today, many locals still claim Indian ancestry, adding an intriguing cultural layer to your travels.

(Image: Canva)

For Indian travellers, Laos is incredibly accessible. Visa-on-arrival facilities, straightforward currency exchange, and welcoming locals make it a hassle-free destination. Pair that with a cost of living rivalling Indian cities, and you get the perfect combination for a luxury-on-a-budget experience.

• Daily expenses: Rs 1,500–Rs 3,000.
• 7-day trip estimate: Rs 40,000–Rs 70,000.
• Accommodation: Dorm beds from Rs 176, guesthouses Rs 500–Rs 700.
• Food: Street meals under Rs 120; full meals in Rs 50.
• Transport: Tuk-tuks, buses, and the Laos-China Railway from Rs 12–Rs 40 per ride.

Even flights via Bangkok, Hanoi, or Kuala Lumpur are affordable. With careful planning, you can experience the beauty, adventure, and serenity of Laos for under Rs 30,000—all while living like royalty.

Laos is a street food lover’s paradise. From sticky rice and laarb to grilled pork and noodle soups, every meal is affordable, flavourful, and authentic. But Laos isn’t just about food—its slow, relaxed pace along the Mekong River, in quaint villages, or amidst misty mountains encourages travellers to pause, reflect, and soak it all in.

(Image: Canva)

Whether you’re wandering through the temples of Luang Prabang, drifting along the Mekong River, or relaxing in a hammock on the 4000 Islands of Si Phan Don, Laos effortlessly combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and stress-free luxury.

1. Luang Namtha – Jungle trekking and adventure for nature lovers.

2. Vang Vieng – Dramatic karst landscapes perfect for photography and river activities.

(Image: Canva)

3. Plain of Jars – Mysterious archaeological sites for history buffs.

4. Phongsali – Remote highlands for offbeat exploration.

5. Luang Prabang – Temples, French colonial architecture, and boutique stays.

6. Mekong River – Slow boat journeys and riverside serenity.

7. Si Phan Don (4000 Islands) – Relax in a hammock amid island charm.

8. Elephant Conservation Centre, Sainyabuli – Support wildlife conservation and meet elephants.

9. Vieng Xai – Explore caves and relics of Laos’ wartime history.

10. Nong Khiaw – Day hikes, river adventures, and authentic rural Lao life.

(Image: Canva)

High Season (Nov–Feb): Cool, dry, perfect for sightseeing, though slightly pricier.

Shoulder Season (Mar–Apr): Warm, fewer crowds, moderate costs.

Low Season (May–Oct): Rainy but beautifully green, with discounted hotels and tours.

Laos is Southeast Asia’s most underrated gem. With a cheap currency, pocket-friendly food and accommodation, and landscapes ranging from emerald jungles to golden temples, it’s the perfect place for Indian travellers to feel like royalty on a budget. Whether it’s a solo escape, a friends’ adventure, or a peaceful cultural trip, Laos promises authentic, immersive experiences without the hefty price tag.

(Image: Canva)