Heading for a beach vacation in India? With their pristine shores and turquoise waters, both Goa and the Andaman Islands beckon, but the question on many budget-conscious travelers’ lips is this: Which destination is easier on the wallet? The answer is nuanced, as it is with most things, but let’s take a crack at the key costs involved.
Goa has been the symbol of affordable travel in India for many years now. Its well-established tourism infrastructure also means that all kinds of options are available, and for every budget. Accommodation options range from basic backpacker hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. There are many choices, which are driving prices down.
Food : Vegan Goan Tiffin & Cheap Eats Food in Goa, especially local Goan cuisine, is super cheap. Transportation with rental scooters and buses is also, for the most part,budget-friendly. If a sociable, vibrant atmosphere with plenty of budget-friendly options is more your thing, Goa usually comes out on top.
So while the natural beauty levels are high here, the cost of living is quite higher than Goa. The primary reason? Its remote location. The Andaman itself comes at a price, needing a flight or a long sea journey to reach, and the travel burden only adds to the overall cost. Accommodation is generally pricier and more limited in the budget department — especially on popular islands like Havelock. Dining can be less varied as well as ribs, which raises prices, and although local food could be priced reasonably. Transportation, particularly via auto-rickshaw or hired car, can further drive up costs. The activities, such as scuba diving, are also generally a little more pricey in the Andaman Islands.
Both Andaman and Goa make for a budget-friendly vacation. But overall Goa is much more budget-friendly destination than Andaman. There’s more in the way of inexpensive accommodation, food and transportation. The Andaman Islands are a little pricier but will provide a once-in-a-lifetime beautiful, relaxing break away to pristine natural beauty not seen in many coastal parts of India.
Basically, if a cheap beach holiday with an energetic crowd is what you’re after, Goa would be a good match. But if you can shell out a few extra bucks for unspoiled beauty, uncrowded beaches, and an adventure-filled getaway, try the Andaman Islands. Researching particular places within each destination and being flexible with your travel dates will ultimately go a long way in extending your rupee, whether you decide on the vibrant shores of Goa or the serene islands of the Andaman.
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