Looking for a mountain trip that doesn’t cost much? These places in Uttarakhand give you clean air, great views, and peaceful time – all under ₹3000. If you’re tired of city noise and looking at screens all day, these weekend spots are a great way to relax. Going alone, with friends, or just need some quiet time – this guide shares 9 low-cost trips with easy travel tips and smart ways to save money.
Here is the Ultimate List of 7 Budget-Friendly Uttarakhand Weekend Getaways
1. Lansdowne
Travel Cost: ₹500 (Bus) + ₹700 (Stay) + ₹400 (Food)
This charming little cantonment town is surrounded by pine trees and old British-era bungalows. With less crowd and more calm, it’s ideal for travelers who just want to sit, walk, and breathe in peace. Visit Bhulla Tal for boating, enjoy sunset at Tip-in-Top, and explore the old St. Mary’s Church. Direct buses run regularly from Kashmere Gate, Delhi. Stay in a basic homestay or guesthouse for under ₹700 and have simple local food at small dhabas.
2. Rishikesh
Travel Cost: ₹500 (Bus) + ₹700 (Dorm or Camp) + ₹400 (Food)
Rishikesh offers everything – adventure, spirituality, and budget living. Rafting in the Ganges, café hopping, and attending the peaceful Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is enough to refresh your weekend. Stay options like ashrams, hostels, and riverside camps often include meals. Shared buses are available 24×7, and local food stalls serve delicious parathas and chai at low cost.
READ ALSO: 10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Rishikesh That Foodies Will Love
3. Chakrata
Travel Cost: ₹600 (Bus via Dehradun) + ₹700 (Stay) + ₹300 (Food)
Tucked in the Garhwal region, Chakrata is a peaceful town with beautiful forests and clear skies. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy offbeat paths and raw nature. The trek to Tiger Falls is a must, and so is sipping tea while watching the clouds roll over the valley. Stay in a local lodge or homestay, which are quite affordable if booked early. Shared jeeps from Dehradun help keep travel costs low.
4. Nainital
Travel Cost: ₹500 (Train + Bus) + ₹600 (Guesthouse)/₹1200 (Hotel) + ₹400 (Food)
Nainital is one of the most loved hill stations in North India and you can explore it on a budget too. Stroll around Naini Lake, visit Snow View Point, and take a peaceful walk on Thandi Sadak. Reach Kathgodam by train, then hop on a shared taxi or local bus. Budget hotels and guesthouses are available near Mallital and Tallital. Try the local food at Tibetan Market or Bhutia stalls.
READ ALSO: I Spent 3D/2N in Nainital in Just Rs. 3000 | Complete Travel Guide
5. Mukteshwar
Travel Cost: ₹600 (Train + Bus) + ₹800 (Stay) + ₹400 (Food)
With Himalayan peaks in the distance and forests all around, Mukteshwar gives you postcard-perfect views without the crowd. The town is known for its scenic cliffs, ancient temples, and fruit orchards. Take a walk to Chauli Ki Jali for incredible sunsets or simply sit and enjoy the breeze. After reaching Kathgodam by train, shared taxis or local buses go straight to Mukteshwar. There are affordable home stays that include meals and local experiences.
6. Khirsu
Travel Cost: ₹500 (Bus till Srinagar Garhwal + Taxi) + ₹600 (Stay) + ₹400 (Food)
Khirsu is one of those places where the crowd doesn’t reach, but peace surely does. With stunning views of snow-covered peaks and apple orchards nearby, it’s ideal for quiet weekend breaks. There’s not much “to do” here and that’s the beauty of it. Take a book, or your camera, and let the place work its magic. Shared cabs go up till Pauri or nearby. Stay in a forest rest house or small guesthouse.
7. Tehri Lake
Travel Cost: ₹550 (Bus till New Tehri) + ₹600 – ₹1200 (Guesthouse or Camp) + ₹400 (Food)
If the idea of relaxing near a peaceful lake excites you, Tehri Lake should be on your list. The massive dam and water body offer boating, kayaking, and calm views of the hills. Evening walks by the lake are refreshing and perfect for photos. Budget rooms are available in New Tehri and nearby villages. Camps around the lake often provide meals, so it’s easier to save money on food.
Tips to Make These Trips Fit Under ₹3000
- Book UTC or GMOU buses in advance to save money.
- Travel at night to avoid spending extra on hotels.
- Pick homestays or dorms that include food or breakfast.
- Eat at local stalls and small restaurants – food is delicious and pocket-friendly.
- Avoid holidays or long weekends when prices shoot up.
When to Plan These Weekend Getaways
Best months are March to June for pleasant weather, and September to November for clear views and less crowd. Winters can also be magical in some spots, but carry warm layers.
The Last Thing You Need to Know
Missing weekends like these is missing out on life itself. A quick getaway can fix tired minds, inspire new ideas, and give you fresh stories to tell. The mountains are waiting, and your budget is not a barrier anymore. Each of these 9 destinations is just a bus ticket away from your next memory.
Make sure to bookmark this blog right now, so it’s ready when that sudden travel urge hits. Got your bags packed or already visited one of these spots? Comment below and tell your story – let others feel the vibe too!
