Finding the right place to celebrate New Year within your budget can feel overwhelming.
With so many options to choose from, the endless scrolling and price checking can take the fun out of planning. But don’t worry – your search ends here! If you’re dreaming of a pocket-easy yet memorable 2026 New Year celebration, these five Indian spots are perfect for all – solo travellers, couples, and groups.
Below are the top 5 budget-friendly New Year destinations in India under ₹50,000, ideal for your year-end getaway.
1. Meghalaya
Budget: ₹35,000 – ₹45,000 per person
Ideal for: Solo travellers, nature lovers, adventure seekers
For someone looking for a calm and scenic New Year escape, Meghalaya is one of the best places to be. Popularly known as the ‘Abode of Clouds’, this Northeastern state offers chill mornings, green hills, and a lively Christmas-New Year atmosphere.
Why Visit Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is perfect for travellers who want a festive energy filled with music, culture, and natural beauty. Shillong lights up beautifully during Christmas, and places like Dawki and Cherrapunji offer peaceful retreats surrounded by nature.
Highlights:
- Explore Laitlum Canyon, Krang Shuri Falls, and Nohkalikai Falls
- Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village and experience the famous living root bridges in Cherrapunji.
- You can do Kayaking and riverside camping at Shnongpdeng and enjoy the live music in cafes in Shillong, the ‘Rock Capital of India’.
Travel Tips:
- You should book a month or two in advance, as Christmas and New Year dates fill fast.
- Carry warm layers, especially for Cherrapunji and carry sufficient Indian currency for remote villages.
- Try the local delicacies and Khasi cuisine dishes of the region.
2. Himachal Pradesh
Budget: From ₹30,000 per person
Ideal for: Adventure lovers, couples, groups
Himachal Pradesh is one of the best budget destinations for New Year 2026 if you love snow, mountains, and adventure. Whether it’s paragliding in Bir or café-hopping in McLeod Ganj, Himachal offers something special for every kind of traveler.
Why Visit Himachal?
From the quiet spiritual monasteries to snowy valleys, Himachal blends adventure and peace beautifully. December-January also makes it perfect for experiencing fresh snowfall.
Highlights:
- Paragliding in Bir, India’s paragliding capital and the Tibetan monasteries of McLeod Ganj
- Scenic drives through the iconic Spiti Valley and a trek to Serolsar Lake.
- Explore the towns of Manali, Kasol, and Tosh
Travel Tips:
- Pack proper thermals, gloves, and good shoes for trekking
- Keep cash for small hill cafés and book the paragliding in advance
- Try the local Himachali dishes -‘Siddu’ and ‘Thukpa’
3. Andaman Islands
Budget: From ₹37,000 per person
Ideal for: Couples, friends, solo travellers
If you’re dreaming of a tropical New Year under ₹50,000, the Andaman Islands is a perfect choice. With white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and exciting water sports, this paradise gives you all the holiday vibes without burning a hole in your pocket.
Why Visit Andaman?
From the goregous coral reefs to sunset points, Andaman promises a peaceful and photo-perfect New Year celebration, for all kinds of travel junkies. It’s also great for first-time solo travelers because of its safety and slow pace.
Highlights:
- Sunset views at Radhanagar Beach and Chidiyatapu, and snorkelling at Elephant Beach
- Explore Baratang’s mysterious Limestone Caves
- Visit the historic Cellular Jail and chill plenty on the Havelock Island beachside.
Travel Tips:
- Carry cotton clothes, quick-dry wear, and sunscreen
- Use waterproof pouches for gadgets and don’t forget to pre-book the ferries for smooth travel
- Try local seafood and some refreshing cocktails.
4. Goa
Budget: From ₹35,000 per person
Ideal for: Couples, friends, solo travellers
Goa remains arguably as one of the most popular and best New Year destinations under ₹50,000 – for all the right reasons. With golden beaches, fun nightlife, music festivals, and delicious seafood, Goa gives you the perfect balance of relaxation and party energy.
Why visit Goa?
Whether you want peaceful mornings by the beach or dancing under the stars, Goa has something for everyone. Christmas celebrations here are also vibrant and culturally rich.
Highlights:
- Sunsets along the Palolem, Anjuna, and Baga beaches and a visit to the Aguada & Chapora Fort
- Mandovi River cruise, Water sports and relaxing massages
- Explore Portuguese churches & flea markets
- Enjoy Goan cuisine, seafood & Feni cocktails
Travel Tips:
- Book stays & flights months in advance
- Rent a scooter for easy local travel
- Carry sunscreen, flip-flops & light clothes
- Don’t litter beaches and respect the local norms
5. Munnar
Budget: From ₹35,000 per person
Ideal for: Couples, families, nature lovers, Solo enthusiasts
If you want a relaxing and peaceful New Year getaway, Munnar is a wonderful choice. Its vast tea gardens, cool climate, and quiet atmosphere make it an idea place for relaxing and starting the year on a positive calm note.
Why visit Munnar?
The rolling hills, fresh mountain air, and scenic viewpoints make Munnar one of the best budget-friendly destinations for a slow and soothing holiday.
Highlights:
- Visit lush tea plantations & the Tata Tea Museum along with boating at Mattupetty Dam
- Enjoy views from Echo Point & Top Station and explore the Eravikulam National Park
- Scenic treks, tea tasting & local market shopping
Travel Tips:
- Carry warm clothes for chilly evenings
- Book stays early for New Year week
- Try Kerala cuisine & spice garden tours
- Prefer cab rentals for steep hill roads.
Start Your New Year the Right Way
As the year comes to an end, give yourself the gift of travel. Whether it’s snowy peaks, peaceful rivers, colorful beaches, or music-filled hill towns, India has endless experiences waiting for you— all under ₹50,000, as a solo traveler.
Pack your bags, pick your favourite destination, and start your New Year with memories that last a lifetime!