5 scenic and affordable international destinations to visit this summer vacation, all under 50 k

Plan an international trip this summer easily. Destinations close to India provide a memorable experience, from cultural immersion to amazing nightlife.

As the days grow longer, loo sets in, temperatures climb high enough to make headlines everyday, the urge to break away from the usual routine, from household chores, office work or university lectures, becomes stronger and almost irresistible. Visuals of floating breakfasts, lounging in hammocks, sipping mimosas, sunset beach walks, poolside naps and quaint cafe hopping, coastal scooty rides all occupy your daydreams.ALSO READ: Last-minute trip? 13 secret light packing hacks that can save your day

Enjoy summer in tropical locations with easy hacks that won't burn a hole in your wallet. (Picture credit: Freepik)

But just as you start scrolling through beachwear and tickets, a sense of hesitation settles, will your wallet allow it, especially when it comes to international travel? After all, the usual narrative places such gateways firmly in the expensive bracket.

In reality, however, a rejuvenating tropical International trip does not always have to come with a hefty price tag that will cost you an arm and a leg. With the right planning, timing, and choices, there are several International destinations close to India that meet all your summer trip needs, all within ₹50,000 per person.

In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Hari Ganapathy, co-founder of Pickyourtrail, India’s leading international holiday brand, shared which destinations are possible. He acknowledged that, “there are indeed getaways that are easy and within reach. You don’t have to go far or spend a lot to find them. They are perfect for the summer." This means travel can also be accessible, not solely for luxury seekers.

Thailand is full of amazing island location! (Picture credit: Freepik)

• Food to try: Pad thai, mango sticky rice, Thai green curry
• Ideal for a mix of high-energy city life and relaxed beach downtime

2. Colombo and Sri Lanka Hill Country: Beaches, tea trails, and wildlife

• Travel time: ~1.5–2 hours | Visa: Free ETA
• Close to India and easy to explore within a short duration.
• Start in Colombo for its colonial charm and coastal promenades before heading to the misty hill country regions of Ella or Nuwara Eliya.
• Go for scenic train journeys through the tea plantation, also considered among the most beautiful rail routes in the world
• Mirissa, on the southern coast, offers seasonal whale-watching experiences along the way
• Food to try: Hoppers, kottu roti, fresh seafood

3. Bali, Indonesia: Private villas and cultural Retreats

• Travel time: ~8–9 hours | Visa: On arrival
• As Bali’s dry season begins, travellers can take advantage of some of the most affordable villa stays of the year
• Known for its laid-back atmosphere

• Explore temples such as Uluwatu and Tanah Lot
• Wander through the rice terraces of Ubud, or unwind at beach clubs in Seminyak and Canggu
• Food to try: Nasi goreng, mie goreng, satay

4. Bhutan: Serene travel in the Himalayas

• Travel time: 5-7 hours | Visa: No visa required (permit needed)
• Ideal for slow, mindful travel
• Bhutan, known for its focus on Gross National Happiness, has monasteries and mountain landscapes
• Visit Thimphu, Paro, and Tiger’s Nest monastery
• Food to try: Ema datshi (chilli and cheese), red rice, local stews

5. Hanoi & Da Nang, Vietnam: Culture, and coastal beauty

• Travel time: ~5–6 hours direct | Visa: E-visa
• Rising favourite due to affordability and rich experiences
• In Hanoi, visit the Old Quarter, markets, and historic architecture like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature
• Check out lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, the dramatic limestone landscapes of Ha Long Bay in Da Nang
• Food to try: Pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, egg coffee (in Hanoi)