Let’s face it – while your New Year’s resolution to eat healthier is already gathering dust in the corner, your travel dreams are still burning bright! The good news? Unlike your abandoned gym membership, these budget-friendly international destinations won’t leave you crying into your empty wallet.
According to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2025 report, one in three Indian travellers (31%) are inspired by affordable travel destinations, while almost one in four (23%) are motivated by knowing the cheapest places to visit.
In 2024, high costs were a key barrier for Indian travellers, with 32% citing it as the reason for taking fewer holidays. So pack your bags as we explore 5 international destinations that prove you don’t need to sell a kidney to see the world!
Abu Dhabi Skyline; Photo- Wikipedia1. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Average one-way airfare from India: Starting from Rs. 12,262
Cambodia’s bustling capital, Phnom Penh, offers a blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and affordable experiences. Beyond the wallet-friendly airfare, Phnom Penh delivers exceptional value with accommodation starting from as low as $10 per night in budget-friendly hostels and local street food meals costing under $3.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia; Photo- WikipediaPlaces to Visit
The Royal Palace of Cambodia showcases Khmer architecture with its golden roofs and intricate spires. The complex houses the Silver Pagoda, where a floor made of 5,329 silver tiles tells stories of royal grandeur.
For history enthusiasts, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum provides crucial insights into Cambodia’s past, while the spiritual Wat Phnom Daun Penh Buddhist Temple offers peaceful respite atop the city’s founding hills.
Food Delicacies
Food lovers will find paradise in Phnom Penh’s street food scene. From steaming bowls of fish amok (Cambodia’s national dish) to fresh spring rolls and strong Cambodian coffee, every meal is an adventure.
Siem Reap, Cambodia; Photo: Andy Enero | Flickr2. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Average one-way airfare from India: Starting from Rs. 17,425
Malaysia’s dynamic capital, Kuala Lumpur, seamlessly blends towering skyscrapers with lush greenery, creating an urban paradise that won’t drain your savings. The city offers excellent value with budget hotels under $20 per night and diverse food courts where a hearty meal costs less than $5.
Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur; Photo- Wikimedia CommonsPlaces to Visit
The iconic Petronas Twin Towers dominate the skyline, offering breathtaking city views from the sky bridge and observation deck. At their base, the Suria KLCC shopping mall and KLCC Park provide world-class retail therapy and green spaces.
The mystical Batu Caves, just 30 minutes from the city centre, feature a golden statue of Lord Murugan and ancient limestone caves housing colourful Hindu temples.
History buffs will appreciate Independence Square (Merdeka Square), surrounded by colonial buildings including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building with its distinctive clock tower.
Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Photo- PexelsFood Delicacies
Kuala Lumpur’s food scene reflects its multicultural heritage beautifully. Jalan Alor transforms into a food paradise after dark, serving everything from char kuey teow to satay sticks.
3. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Average one-way airfare from India: Starting from Rs. 22,588
The UAE’s capital proves that Arabian luxury doesn’t have to break the bank. While Dubai grabs headlines, Abu Dhabi offers similar experiences at more modest prices, with budget accommodations under $40 per night and affordable dining options in local areas.
Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi; Photo- Abu DhabiPlaces to Visit
The magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as Abu Dhabi’s architectural masterpiece, accommodating over 40,000 worshippers with its stunning white marble construction and intricate Islamic art. Entry is free, making it accessible to all travellers. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum in the Arab world, showcases art from across civilisations under its distinctive dome architecture that creates a “rain of light” effect.
Yas Island serves as the entertainment capital, home to Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and the Yas Marina Circuit, where Formula 1 races take place. Budget travellers can enjoy the island’s beaches and public areas without expensive theme park tickets. The Emirates Palace allows visitors to explore its public areas and enjoy traditional afternoon tea in surroundings of gold and marble.
Photo: Warner Bros World Yas Island Abu Dhabi4. Muscat, Oman: Arabian Peninsula’s Hidden Gem
Average one-way airfare from India: Starting from Rs. 22,588
Oman’s capital, Muscat, offers an authentic Arabian experience away from the glitz of neighbouring Dubai, with reasonable accommodation prices and traditional markets where haggling is part of the cultural experience.
Sultan Qaboos Street in Muscat, Oman; Photo- WikipediaPlaces to Visit
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque impresses visitors with its massive hand-woven carpet (once the world’s largest) and stunning chandelier made of Swarovski crystals. Its contemporary Islamic architecture represents modern Oman’s spiritual side.
Mutrah Corniche offers scenic walks along the harbour, where traditional dhows (boats) bob alongside modern vessels against a backdrop of dramatic mountains. The Royal Opera House Muscat represents Oman’s commitment to arts and culture, hosting world-class performances in a building.
Qurum Beach provides a perfect escape with golden sand and clear waters, while nearby Qurum Natural Park offers green spaces and bird-watching opportunities.
Offshore Sailing in Muscat; Photo- Wikipedia5. Davao City, Philippines
Average one-way airfare from India: Starting from Rs. 23,557
The Philippines’ largest city by land area, Davao City, combines urban sophistication with natural wonders, offering budget travellers pristine beaches, unique wildlife experiences, and delicious cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.
Peoples Park, Davao City; Photo- WikipediaPlaces to Visit
The Philippine Eagle Centre stands as a world-renowned conservation facility dedicated to protecting the endangered Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird. Visitors can observe these magnificent raptors up close while learning about conservation efforts in an educational and inspiring environment. Mount Apo, the Philippines’ highest peak, attracts hikers and nature lovers, leading to breathtaking summit views.
Malagos Garden Resort offers bird watching, chocolate-making workshops using locally-grown cacao, and interactions with various animals in a sustainable environment. The resort produces award-winning chocolates that visitors can sample and purchase.
Davao Crocodile Park provides exciting encounters with saltwater crocodiles, colourful birds, and other wildlife in well-maintained facilities that prioritise animal welfare and education.
Food Delicacies
The city’s food scene celebrates both Filipino favorites and international influences, with must-try dishes including durian (the notorious “king of fruits”), fresh seafood at Roxas Avenue Night Market, and authentic Filipino dishes at incredibly reasonable prices.
Mount Apo Rainforest, Davao City; Photo- WikipediaBottom Line
So there you have it – 5 destinations where your money stretches longer than your patience during airport security checks.
Whether you’re drawn to Cambodia’s historical depths, Malaysia’s multicultural flavours, the UAE’s desert luxuries, Oman’s authentic charm, or the Philippines’ tropical wonders, each destination offers wallet-friendly airfares and unforgettable experiences.
Remember, the best time to book that budget flight is now – before your practical side reminds you that you probably should save money for something “sensible” like groceries or rent. After all, memories of watching Philippine Eagles soar over Mount Apo will last much longer than that fancy coffee you didn’t buy this morning!
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
10 Famous Destinations in the World Might Not See Tourists
The post 5 Cheapest International Travel Destinations in 2025 appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
