How to Visit Mount Abu on a Budget Under ₹15,000

TL;DR Summary (Short Verdict)

• Explore Mount Abu under ₹15,000 for 5 days.
• Save big with budget buses and shared autos.
• Enjoy free lakeside views and cheap street eats.
• Stay in homestays for under ₹1,000 per night.
• Discover hidden trails without pricey guides.
• Affordable itinerary packed with local hacks.

Introduction to Budget Travel in Mount Abu

I still remember my first trip to Mount Abu over a decade ago, clutching a tattered map and a budget of just ₹5,000 for a long weekend. I hitchhiked part of the way, slept in a ₹300-per-night guesthouse, and gorged on piping hot dal baati from a roadside stall for ₹50. That trip taught me Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station, is a haven for frugal travellers. Nestled in the Aravalli range, it offers stunning views, serene lakes, and ancient temples without the hefty price tag of more touristy hill stations. It’s underrated, often overshadowed by Udaipur or Jaipur, but perfect for backpackers seeking peace and affordability. In this guide, you’ll discover how to explore Mount Abu on a shoestring budget under ₹15,000 for a 5-day trip, with practical tips on travel, stays, food, and hidden gems from my 20+ years of wandering India’s budget trails.

Why Visit Mount Abu on a Budget? (Key Highlights)

• Mount Abu’s entry to most natural spots like Nakki Lake is free, saving ₹500+ compared to ticketed attractions elsewhere.
• Local buses and shared autos cost under ₹50 per ride, slashing transport expenses.
• Street food like pyaaz kachori and dal baati is filling at just ₹30–₹50 per meal.
• Budget accommodations start at ₹800 per night, even during peak seasons.
• Off-season travel (July–September) offers 30–40% discounts on stays and tours.
• Free hiking trails in the Aravalli hills replace expensive guided treks.
• Minimal tourist traps mean your money goes further on authentic experiences.

Top Budget Things to Do & See

Nakki Lake

This serene lake, surrounded by lush hills, feels like a postcard come to life.

Budget Tip: Skip pricey boat rides (₹200+); enjoy free sunset views from the shore.

Dilwara Temples

These 11th–13th-century Jain temples boast intricate marble carvings rivaling the Taj Mahal.

Budget Tip: Entry is free; visit early morning to avoid crowds and guides.

Guru Shikhar

At 1,722 meters, this highest peak offers panoramic views of the Aravalli range.

Budget Tip: Take a shared jeep for ₹50 instead of private taxis costing ₹500.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

A haven for leopards, sloth bears, and birds, perfect for nature lovers.

Budget Tip: Entry is ₹50; trek solo on marked trails to save on guides.

Toad Rock

A quirky rock formation resembling a toad, offering stunning lake views.

Budget Tip: It’s free to visit; pack snacks to avoid overpriced nearby stalls.

Achalgarh Fort

A historic fort with ancient temples and sweeping vistas of the plains below.

Budget Tip: Entry is free; use local buses (₹30) instead of cabs to reach.

How to Reach Mount Abu on a Budget

Mount Abu is well-connected despite being a hill station, and reaching it cheaply is entirely doable. The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, about 185 km away, with flights from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai starting at ₹3,000 if booked early. However, for true budget travellers, trains and buses are the way to go. The nearest railway station is Abu Road, 28 km away, with trains like the Ahmedabad–Delhi Ashram Express (sleeper class ₹150–₹200) connecting to major cities. From Abu Road, shared autos or local buses to Mount Abu cost ₹30–₹50 and take about 45 minutes.

If you’re coming by bus, Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates regular services from Udaipur (3.5 hours, ₹120), Ahmedabad (5 hours, ₹200), and Jaipur (7 hours, ₹300). Book non-AC buses for cheaper fares. A hack I’ve used often is to travel overnight on buses to save on a night’s accommodation. Once in Mount Abu, rely on shared autos or walk—most attractions are within 2–3 km of the town center.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travellers

For the best deals, aim for the off-season, which runs from July to September (monsoon) and late March to early June (summer). During these months, hotel rates drop by 30–40%, with budget stays available for as low as ₹600–₹800 per night. Crowds are thinner, so you’ll haggle better for transport and food. The monsoon brings lush greenery, though trails can be slippery—carry sturdy shoes. Summers are warm (25–30°C), but evenings are pleasant for lakeside strolls. Avoid peak seasons like October–February and major festivals (Diwali, Christmas) when prices for stays and taxis double, and booking in advance becomes essential. I’ve saved hundreds by visiting in August, enjoying misty views without the tourist rush.

Where to Stay – Cheap Homestays & Hostels

Mount Abu has plenty of budget-friendly accommodations under ₹1,500 per night, especially if you avoid touristy areas near Nakki Lake and opt for quieter neighborhoods. Near Polo Ground, guesthouses like Hotel Maganji’s offer clean rooms for ₹800–₹1,000 per night with basic amenities. In the Delwara area, homestays start at ₹600–₹900, often including home-cooked breakfast if you negotiate. For solo travellers or backpackers, hostels near the main bazaar charge ₹300–₹500 per dorm bed—look for places like Backpacker’s Hub on platforms or ask locals.

A pro tip: Book directly with owners by walking in during off-season for discounts, and always check for hot water availability if travelling in winter. Browse budget-friendly stays on Unpaqd: Browse Unpaqd stays in Mount Abu

Trip Cost Breakdown (5-Day Trip for 1 Person Under ₹15,000)

Category	Cost (₹)	Notes
Transport (to & fro)	1,500	Return bus from Udaipur/Ahmedabad
Local Transport	500	Shared autos, buses (₹50–₹100/day)
Stay (5 nights)	5,000	₹1,000/night in budget guesthouse
Food	2,500	₹500/day (street food, small eateries)
Activities/Entry Fees	500	Minimal fees for temples, sanctuary
Miscellaneous	1,000	Snacks, water, small purchases
Total	11,000	Buffer included for emergencies

*Note: Costs are approximate and based on 2023 prices. Adjust based on your starting point and travel style.

Suggested Budget Itineraries

3-Day Quick Trip

• Day 1 (Arrival & Nakki Lake): Arrive by morning bus from Udaipur (₹120, 3.5 hours). Check into a ₹800/night guesthouse near Polo Ground. Spend the evening at Nakki Lake (free) and grab dinner at a roadside stall (₹50–₹70).
• Day 2 (Temples & Toad Rock): Visit Dilwara Temples (free) in the morning—reach by shared auto (₹30). Hike to Toad Rock (free) post-lunch for lake views. Return to town for cheap eats (₹100).
• Day 3 (Guru Shikhar & Departure): Take a shared jeep (₹50) to Guru Shikhar for sunrise views. Return by noon, shop for souvenirs at the bazaar (₹200), and catch an evening bus back (₹120).

5-Day Full Experience

• Day 1 (Arrival & Settle In): Reach via bus from Ahmedabad (₹200, 5 hours). Check into a ₹1,000/night homestay near Delwara. Relax at Nakki Lake (free) and eat local dal baati (₹50).
• Day 2 (Dilwara Temples & Toad Rock): Explore Dilwara Temples (free) from 8–10 AM via shared auto (₹30). Trek to Toad Rock (free) for panoramic views. Dinner at a small dhaba (₹80).
• Day 3 (Guru Shikhar & Sunset Point): Shared jeep to Guru Shikhar (₹50) for morning views. Return by noon, rest, and walk to Sunset Point (free) in the evening. Budget meal (₹70).
• Day 4 (Wildlife Sanctuary & Achalgarh Fort): Visit Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary (₹50 entry) for a half-day trek. Afternoon trip to Achalgarh Fort (free) by local bus (₹30). Street food dinner (₹60).
• Day 5 (Bazaar & Departure): Stroll through the main bazaar for affordable souvenirs (₹300). Enjoy a final lakeside view before catching an evening bus (₹200).

Ideal For

• Backpackers seeking affordable hill station getaways.
• Solo travellers looking for safe, low-cost exploration.
• Budget couples wanting scenic escapes without splurging.
• Nature enthusiasts on a tight budget.
• Small friend groups aiming for cheap group travel.

Safety, Permits & Local Etiquette on Budget

Mount Abu is generally safe for budget travellers, even solo women, but stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid isolated trails after dark. No special permits are needed for most attractions, though the Wildlife Sanctuary may require a nominal entry fee (₹50) and basic ID checks. Keep cash handy as ATMs can be sparse, and mobile network is spotty in remote areas—download offline maps or carry a physical one. Bargain politely for autos and souvenirs; locals are friendly but expect negotiation. Dress modestly near temples (cover shoulders and knees), and don’t litter—carry a small bag for trash. A hack I’ve used is to befriend local shopkeepers for safety tips and cheaper deals on food or transport.

Hidden Budget Tips from 20+ Years of Travel

• Visit Nakki Lake early morning for free yoga sessions by locals—great for mind and wallet.
• Bargain for souvenirs at the main bazaar; start at 50% of the quoted price.
• Carry a reusable water bottle—refill at guesthouses to avoid ₹20/bottle costs.
• Skip touristy cafes; eat at dhabas near bus stands for meals under ₹60.
• Walk to nearby spots like Sunset Point instead of paying ₹50 for autos.
• Join locals for free evening aarti at temples for a cultural experience.
• Buy snacks from grocery stores near Polo Ground, not overpriced tourist stalls.
• Travel mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) for lower bus fares and stay discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Mount Abu affordable for budget travellers?

Absolutely, Mount Abu is a gem for budget travellers. With stays starting at ₹800 per night, meals under ₹100, and free attractions like Nakki Lake, you can easily explore on a shoestring. My trips have often cost less than ₹3,000 for a weekend. Just stick to local transport and street food to keep expenses low.

Q: How much does a budget trip to Mount Abu cost?

A 5-day budget trip to Mount Abu costs around ₹11,000–₹15,000 per person. This includes transport (₹1,500), stays (₹5,000), food (₹2,500), and minimal entry fees (₹500). Costs vary based on your starting point and travel style, but my breakdown keeps it frugal. Always leave a buffer for unexpected expenses.

Q: What's the best time for cheap travel to Mount Abu?

The best time for cheap travel is the off-season, from July to September (monsoon) or March to June (summer). Rates for stays and transport drop by 30–40%, and crowds are minimal, making bargaining easier. I’ve visited in August and enjoyed misty views with discounted rooms. Just pack for rain or heat accordingly.

Q: How to reach Mount Abu cheaply?

The cheapest way is by RSRTC buses from Udaipur (₹120, 3.5 hours) or Ahmedabad (₹200, 5 hours). Trains to Abu Road (₹150–₹200 sleeper class) followed by a ₹30 shared auto work well too. Overnight buses save a night’s stay cost. Avoid private taxis or flights unless you snag early deals.

Q: Are there safe budget stays in Mount Abu?

Yes, Mount Abu has safe budget stays like guesthouses and homestays for ₹600–₹1,500 per night. Areas like Polo Ground and Delwara are secure and close to attractions. I’ve stayed in family-run places with warm hosts who ensure safety. Always read reviews or ask locals for trusted recommendations.

Q: Which is better for budget — Mount Abu or Udaipur?

For a tighter budget, Mount Abu wins over Udaipur. Mount Abu offers cheaper stays (₹800 vs. ₹1,200) and free natural attractions, while Udaipur’s palaces and boat rides add up quickly (₹500+ daily). I’ve found Mount Abu quieter and easier to explore on foot. However, Udaipur suits those craving royal vibes if you can stretch your wallet.