Arunachal Pradesh, nestled between the mighty Himalayas, lies in the farthest corner of India. The geography of Arunachal Pradesh makes it almost cut off from the buzz, making it challenging to accumulate information about the region. Things get tricky when someone opts for tour packages due to a lack of information, as these packages often turn out to be expensive and may not live up to expectations (at least based on my experience). So, the question arises: how can you figure out your own budget and plan a perfect trip according to your preferences in Arunachal Pradesh?
Well, the answer lies in this blog. Here, I provide the complete details of my 15-day journey to Arunachal Pradesh (I visited in 2019 along with a friend). Read this article thoroughly to avoid headaches and smashing calculators for hectic calculations and estimations. If you're unsure how to plan your trip, check out the detailed guide for backpacking in Arunachal Pradesh as well.
Here's How Much It Costs to Travel Across Arunachal Pradesh
It is important to note that we didn't cover the entire Arunachal Pradesh during our trip.
Total spent backpacking in Arunachal Pradesh for 15 days:
- For two people: ₹21,588
- Per person: ₹10,794
Average Cost Per Person
- Total per day: ₹1,103 / €15.75 / $17
- Food and drinks per day: ₹200 – 400 / €2.90 – 5.70 / $3.10 – 6.15
- Accommodation per day: ₹700 – 1,200 / €10 – 17.15 / $10.80 – 18.50
- Long-distance sumo ride: ₹500 – 750 / €7.15 – 10.70 / $7.70 – 11.55
Detailed Breakdown of the Costs
Accommodation
Accommodation in Arunachal Pradesh can range from budget hotels to homestays. We primarily stayed in budget hotels and a few homestays. Here's an estimate:
- Budget hotels: ₹700 – 1,200 per night
- Homestays: ₹800 – 1,200 per night
Food and Drinks
The cost of food and drinks can vary based on where you eat. We mostly ate at local eateries, which were both delicious and economical.
- Average meal: ₹100 – 200 per person
- Drinks: ₹50 – 100 per person
Transportation
We traveled primarily by long-distance sumo rides, which are a common mode of transportation in Arunachal Pradesh. Here's an estimate of the costs:
- Long-distance sumo rides: ₹500 – 750 per ride
- Local transportation: ₹50 – 100 per trip
Tips for Budget Travel in Arunachal Pradesh
- Plan Ahead: Research and plan your itinerary in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Travel Off-Season: Consider traveling during the off-season to get better deals on accommodation and transportation.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for public transport like sumo rides instead of private cabs to save money.
- Stay in Homestays: Homestays are not only economical but also provide a chance to experience the local culture.
- Eat Local: Eating at local eateries will save money and give you a taste of authentic Arunachali cuisine.
Conclusion
Traveling in Arunachal Pradesh can be a rewarding experience, both culturally and visually. By planning carefully and budgeting wisely, you can explore this beautiful state without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you're an adventurer or a peace seeker, Arunachal Pradesh has something for everyone. Happy traveling!