10 places you can travel to this Christmas and New Year without breaking the bank

It is December and the more we get into the holiday mood, the more we want to go out. Now, if you haven't yet planned your Christmas and New Year break, here are a few destinations you can consider visiting, without worrying about your savings. 

First, take a look at the places within India (because, let's face it, visiting any place that requires a visa is out of the question at this short a period of time): 

• Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Often underrated and ignored, the Northeast is one of the best locations you can look at when you are on a budget. Tawang is a delightful place to consider for your Christmas/New Year break. 

• Mawlynnong and Dawki, Meghalaya 

Mawlynnong is the cleanest village in the country. The weather is good, the places abound in scenic views, you can opt for rafting, see the waterfalls, the living root bridge; and the Dawki river, which is 33 km away from Mawlynnong, is the cleanest river you will ever see.  

• Goa

This list (or any Christmas/New Year vacation list, for that matter) would be incomplete without the 'Las Vegas of India', which generally turns pretty wild during December. There are parties in every nook and cranny of the state (and if you spend your money cautiously, it might not be that expensive after all).

• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 

The place is known as the Golden City for a reason. It has the sand dunes and forts. Some of the must-see attractions in Jaisalmer include the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a vibrant desert national park, the historic Kuldhara village, exquisite Jain temples, the surreal Gadisar lake, and the list goes on...

• Mukteshwar or Nainital, Uttarakhand 

If you want to spend this December in a hill station and don't want to burn a crater in your pocket, try Mukteshwar or Nainital in Uttarakhand. The air is clean, the weather is crisp, and the last week of the year is generally pretty here.

• Pondicherry

One of India's eight Union Territories, Pondicherry is known for its beautiful streets, mustard-yellow French-era buildings, and massive bougainvillaea-covered walls. It also has an excellent blend of traditional Indian and French architecture with cafes and stores giving you a taste of both the cultures. 

Pro tip: If you are travelling solo or with friends, instead of spending money on expensive hotels, try dorms and hostels, which will save you a lot of money. You might also end up making some good friends.  

Now, if you want to spend a little more and want to travel outside India (yet don't want to break your FDs), here are a few places that you can travel to: 

• Vietnam

Vietnam is a backpacker's paradise with cultural wonders that can be seen on a budget. Its beautiful villages, beaches, and unique cities have a lot to offer. It can be an excellent year-end vacation spot if you are travelling alone or with your family.

Indian passport holders can apply for an e-visa (which is not too much of a hassle).

• Bhutan

Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom, is an exotic country to travel to for many reasons, including the fact that it is cheaper than your average European country. Bhutan provides a unique glimpse into a different culture, and then there's the allure of the spectacular Himalayas, of course.

Indian passport holders can travel to Bhutan visa-free.

• Thailand

Thailand, one of Asia's most popular tourist destinations, is a must visit. Whether you prefer to party or relax by the sea, there is something for everyone. There are various amazing destinations in the country to choose from. And above all, you must also try the Thai cuisine; especially the flavourful street food.

Indian passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Thailand.

• Bali, Indonesia

It would be a shame to discuss budget international trips from India and not including Bali. One of the most gorgeous and, more importantly, inexpensive getaways; Bali is heaven for people who love the sea, the sand, and architecture and culture.

Indian passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Bali.

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