Why Follow Budget Travel Influencers in India?
India, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and affordable travel options, is a paradise for budget travelers. In 2024, I followed several Indian travel influencers who helped me plan a 10-day trip across Rajasthan and Goa for under $300—an experience I wouldn’t have thought possible without their tips! According to a 2023 report by Statista, India ranks among the top 5 most affordable travel destinations globally, with an average daily budget of $25 for backpackers [Ref 1].
In 2025, budget travel influencers in India are more relevant than ever, sharing practical advice on how to explore the country without breaking the bank. From hidden gems to money-saving hacks, these influencers offer a wealth of knowledge for travelers. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the top budget travel influencers in India to follow in 2025, along with their best tips to make your journey affordable and unforgettable.
Top Budget Travel Influencers in India to Follow in 2025
Here’s a curated list of the top budget travel influencers in India who can inspire your 2025 adventures:
1. Shivya Nath (@shivya)
Shivya Nath is a solo female traveler and the author of The Shooting Star. She quit her corporate job in 2011 to travel the world and has since become one of India’s most influential budget travel bloggers. Based in Goa, Shivya focuses on sustainable and offbeat travel, often sharing tips on how to explore India on a shoestring budget. Her Instagram is filled with stunning visuals of lesser-known destinations like Spiti Valley and the Andaman Islands.
- Best Tip: Shivya recommends traveling during the shoulder seasons (March-April or September-October) to save on accommodation and avoid crowds. Check out her tips for budget travel in “Goa Beaches on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips for Travelers”.
- Follow Her: Instagram | Blog
2. Siddhartha Joshi (@siddharthajoshi)
Siddhartha Joshi is a Mumbai-based travel photographer and influencer known for his vibrant storytelling. He often shares budget travel itineraries for destinations like Hampi, Ladakh, and Kerala. Siddhartha’s posts are a mix of practical tips and stunning photography, making him a go-to for travelers who want to capture India’s beauty on a budget.
- Best Tip: Siddhartha suggests using Indian Railways for long-distance travel to save money. A sleeper class ticket from Mumbai to Hampi costs just $8! Learn more in “Indian Railways Budget Travel Guide: How to Get the Lowest Fares”.
- Follow Him: Instagram | Blog
3. Neelima Vallangi (@neelimavallangi)
Neelima Vallangi is a travel writer and photographer who specializes in offbeat destinations and adventure travel. Based in Bangalore, she has explored remote corners of India, from the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh to the tribal villages of Odisha. Neelima’s budget travel tips are perfect for backpackers looking to explore India’s hidden gems.
- Best Tip: Neelima recommends staying in homestays to save money and experience local culture. In Ladakh, you can find homestays for as little as $5 per night. For more budget stays, see “Top Budget Hotels in Leh Ladakh Under ₹1,300 – High Altitude Stays”.
- Follow Her: Instagram | Blog
4. Lakshmi Sharath (@lakshmisharath)
Lakshmi Sharath is a travel blogger and storyteller from Chennai who has been exploring India for over two decades. She focuses on budget travel, cultural experiences, and sustainable tourism. Lakshmi’s blog is a treasure trove of itineraries, from a $10-a-day trip in Varanasi to a budget-friendly food tour in Kolkata.
- Best Tip: Lakshmi advises eating at local dhabas and street stalls to save on food costs. A thali in Varanasi can cost as little as $2! Check out more food tips in “Best Budget Food in Varanasi: Cheap Eats for Tourists”.
- Follow Her: Instagram | Blog
5. Anjali Chawla (@travelwithanjalichawla)
Anjali Chawla is a Delhi-based budget travel influencer who shares practical tips for exploring India on a tight budget. Her YouTube channel features detailed vlogs on how to travel to places like Jaipur, Rishikesh, and the Andaman Islands for under $20 a day. Anjali’s content is perfect for first-time travelers looking for affordable itineraries.
- Best Tip: Anjali suggests booking budget hotels near major attractions to save on transport costs. For example, in Jaipur, you can find hotels near the Pink City for under $10 per night. See “Best Budget Hotels Near Jaipur’s Pink City Under ₹1000”.
- Follow Her: Instagram | YouTube
6. Dheeraj Sharma (@devilonwheels)
Dheeraj Sharma, the founder of Devil On Wheels, is a budget travel influencer specializing in road trips and Himalayan adventures. Based in Delhi, Dheeraj shares detailed guides on how to explore Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand on a budget. His tips on renting bikes and finding cheap stays are invaluable for adventure seekers.
- Best Tip: Dheeraj recommends renting a bike for $10 a day to explore Ladakh’s rugged terrain affordably. For more budget travel tips in Ladakh, check out “Ladakh on a Shoestring Budget in 2025: Tips for Backpackers”.
- Follow Him: Instagram | Blog
7. Tanya Khanijow (@tanyakhanijow)
Tanya Khanijow is one of India’s most popular travel vloggers, known for her cinematic videos and budget travel guides. Based in Mumbai, Tanya has explored destinations like Kerala, Darjeeling, and the Andaman Islands, often sharing how to travel for less. Her YouTube channel has over 1 million subscribers as of 2025.
- Best Tip: Tanya suggests island-hopping in the Andaman Islands on a budget by using local ferries instead of private boats. A ferry ticket costs just $5! Learn more in “Andaman Travel Guide for Backpackers: Budget-Friendly Tips and Itinerary”.
- Follow Her: Instagram | YouTube
How These Influencers Can Help You Plan Your 2025 Trip
Following these influencers can transform your travel experience in India. Here’s how they can help:
- Budget Itineraries: Influencers like Anjali Chawla and Lakshmi Sharath provide detailed itineraries for destinations like Jaipur and Varanasi, helping you plan affordable trips.
- Money-Saving Hacks: From using Indian Railways (as suggested by Siddhartha Joshi) to eating at local dhabas, these influencers share practical tips to keep your expenses low.
- Inspiration for Offbeat Destinations: Neelima Vallangi and Shivya Nath highlight hidden gems like Zanskar Valley and Turtuk Village, perfect for travelers seeking unique experiences.
- Photography and Vlogging Tips: Tanya Khanijow and Siddhartha Joshi offer advice on capturing India’s beauty, whether you’re shooting in Hampi or the Andaman Islands.
Tips to Maximize Your Budget Travel Experience in India
Here are some additional tips inspired by these influencers to make the most of your 2025 trip:
- Follow Local Recommendations: Influencers often share local eateries and stays that are cheaper than tourist traps. For example, a meal at a local stall in Delhi can cost $1, as highlighted by Lakshmi Sharath.
- Use Social Media for Real-Time Updates: Follow these influencers on Instagram for real-time stories and updates on deals, festivals, and travel conditions.
- Travel Light: Most budget airlines in India charge for checked baggage. Pack light to save $10-$20 per flight, a tip often shared by Tanya Khanijow.
- Engage with Their Communities: Many influencers host Q&A sessions or respond to comments, so don’t hesitate to ask for personalized advice.
FAQ: Budget Travel Influencers in India
Why Should I Follow Budget Travel Influencers in India?
They provide practical tips, affordable itineraries, and inspiration for exploring India on a budget, helping you save money and discover hidden gems.
Which Platforms Are Best to Follow These Influencers?
Instagram and YouTube are the best platforms for real-time updates, vlogs, and visual inspiration. Blogs are great for detailed guides and itineraries.
Can These Influencers Help with Offbeat Destinations?
Yes! Influencers like Neelima Vallangi and Shivya Nath specialize in offbeat destinations like Zanskar Valley and Spiti, offering budget-friendly tips.
How Can I Connect with These Influencers?
Follow them on Instagram, YouTube, or their blogs, and engage with their content by commenting or messaging them directly for advice.
Start Your Budget Travel Journey in 2025
Following these budget travel influencers in India will not only save you money but also inspire you to explore the country in a meaningful way. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway in Goa, a cultural immersion in Jaipur, or an adventure in Ladakh, their tips will help you make the most of your 2025 trip. I’ve personally used their advice to plan affordable trips, and I can’t wait to see where their recommendations take me next!
Ready to dive deeper? Check out these related guides:
- “Andaman Travel Guide for Backpackers: Budget-Friendly Tips and Itinerary”
- “Best Budget Food in Varanasi: Cheap Eats for Tourists”
Which influencer are you most excited to follow? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
References
- “Most Affordable Travel Destinations,” Statista – Statistics on India as a budget travel destination.
- “Indian Railways Booking,” IRCTC – Official website for booking train tickets in India.
- “Sustainable Travel in India,” UNWTO – Information on sustainable travel practices in India.
- “Digital Nomad Trends 2025,” Nomad List – Trends for digital nomads and budget travelers in India.