List of Countries Where Indian Currency is stronger in 2024

In 2024, Indian travelers are increasingly looking for destinations where their rupees can go further, offering great value for money and unique travel experiences. From scenic landscapes to vibrant cultures, some of the top countries where the Indian currency is stronger are a delight to stay when you don't have to spend much of your currency and have luxurious stay. Some of those countries that you can visit by paying relatively lower prices are as below:

Countries Where Indian Currency is stronger in 2024

1. Vietnam

Vietnam continues to be an attractive destination for Indian travelers. In fact, it has been titled World's Leading Heritage Destination 2023 by World Travel Awards. Here, 1 Indian Rupee equals 304.44 Vietnamese dong* which makes Vietnamese dong significantly weaker than the Indian rupee, making everything from street food to accommodation very affordable.

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• Cost of Living: Vietnam offers a low cost of living. A decent meal can cost as little as INR 75-350, while mid-range accommodations range at INR 750– 1,500 per night (Leapscholar, 2024).
• Top Attractions: Must-visit places include the bustling city of Hanoi, the historic town of Hoi An, and the scenic Halong Bay.

It should be no wonder that Vietnam was the most googled travel destinations by Indians in 2023 (Google Trends, 2023) when Vietnam's beauty is a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.The country's natural beauty extends to its pristine beaches, like those found in Phu Quoc. From the picturesque rice terraces of Sapa to the vibrant streets of Hanoi, each place offers a unique charm. HaLong Bay's limestone karsts and Hoi An's ancient town add to Vietnam's allure, delicious cuisine, and the resilience and warmth of its people, making it a truly enchanting destination. making it a must-visit destination. 

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2. Indonesia

Indonesia, with its myriad islands, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, offers great value for Indian tourists. 1 Indian Rupee equals 196.78 Indonesian Rupiah.* Indonesian rupiah (IDR) offers a favorable exchange rate. Moreover Indonesia has been looking out for Indian tourists' comfort and has been aiming to look for more tourists by adding extra flights for commuting (Hindu Business Lines, 2024). This added with visa free access makes it the perfect destination for you. 

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• Cost of Living: Meals can be as cheap as INR 130-180 at local warungs (small family-owned restaurants), and decent hotel rooms can be found for INR 1,000-2,000 per night (Leapscholar, 2024)
• Top Attractions: Bali's beaches, Ubud's cultural heart, and the temples of Yogyakarta are popular among travelers.

It is Indonesia’s tapestry of tropical landscapes, diverse cultures, and stunning wildlife. From the lush jungles of Bali to the pristine beaches of Lombok, each island offers a unique charm that has attracted 11.67 million visitors in 2023, almost double the number in 2022 (Economic Times, 2024). Bali alone received 5.23 million visitors, accounting for nearly half of Indonesia's total tourism arrivals. You must visit Indonesia's vibrant cultural festivals, such as Bali's Nyepi and Java's Jember Fashion Carnaval. Its underwater beauty in places like Raja Ampat offers stunning diving experiences, adding to Indonesia's diverse appeal.

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3. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, just a short flight from India, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This makes SriLanka an accessible foreign nation to visit for everyone, in fact, the majority of its tourism is from India only. Here, 1 Indian Rupee equals 3.66 Sri Lankan Rupee.* The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) has seen favorable exchange rates for Indians.

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• Cost of Living: A 5-day budget trip to this country costs around Rs 55,000 to Rs 75,000 per person. For a lavish trip, on the other hand, you're looking at spending between Rs 2,00,000 to Rs 4,00,000 per person.(India Today, 2024)
• Top Attractions: Explore the beaches of Mirissa, the historical city of Kandy, and the lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya.

With a free travel visa, you can be part of Sri Lanka’s harmonious blend of pristine beaches, lush tea plantations, and ancient ruins. Rich in history and culture, it boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the ancient city of Anuradhapura and the sacred city of Kandy. Wildlife sanctuaries like Yala National Park offer glimpses of leopards and elephants, while the warm hospitality and flavorful cuisine make it a must-visit destination. The country's colonial architecture, bustling markets, and spicy cuisine add to its colorful tapestry of experiences.

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4. Nepal

Nepal, with its stunning Himalayan backdrop and rich culture, is a favorite among Indian tourists. 1 Indian Rupee equals 1.60 Nepalese Rupee.* The Nepalese rupee (NPR) is closely linked to the Indian rupee, offering excellent value. India sharing its border with Nepal comforted itself as the top tourist market for Nepal in February 2024 itself (CNBCTV18, 2024)

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• Cost of Living:The modest meal of 320–640 NPR is available at 200–400 INR. The average price of a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu is currently around ₹ 7,828 per night. And the cheapest 5-star hotel we found is ₹ 211 per night (MakeMyTrip, 2024).
• Top Attractions: Visit Kathmandu’s temples, embark on a trek to the Everest Base Camp, or relax by the lakeside in Pokhara.

Nepal's beauty lies in its breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, including the iconic Mount Everest. The country's rich culture and heritage are evident in its ancient temples and monasteries, such as Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. Nepal's warm hospitality and diverse wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros, add to its allure, making it a unique and captivating destination. This diversity supports a wide array of flora and fauna, including the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and elusive snow leopard.

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5. Cambodia

Cambodia, with its ancient temples and vibrant cities, offers a rich travel experience at a fraction of the cost. 1 Indian Rupee equals 49.42 Cambodian riel.* The Cambodian riel (KHR) is another currency where the Indian rupee performs strongly.

• Cost of Living: Multiple websites offer a multitude of offers for the trip to Cambodia in the range of 54,000INR to 3,00,00 INR. Though before making payments in such offers one must validate the identity of the organization with identity proof etc. (MakeMyTrip, 2024).
• Top Attractions: Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and the coastal town of Sihanoukville are top attractions.

On June 16, Cambodia began its first direct flights between Phnom Penh and New Delhi. Marking 2024 as the Cambodia-India Tourism Year, both nations are trying to boost the tourism aspect already so you may benefit through such policies (Economic Times, 2024). You can explore the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country's rich history can be explored in the capital, Phnom Penh, with its Royal Palace and museums. Cambodia's natural beauty includes pristine beaches, lush jungles, and the tranquil Tonle Sap Lake, offering a diverse range of experiences that you'd never forget.

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6. Laos

Laos, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning landscapes, is another great destination where the Indian rupee is stronger. 1 Indian Rupee equals 263.25 Laotian Kip Offering good value to Indians.*

Due to ongoing inflation in Laos the price keeps varying and the cost of living is rising yet its tourism will be it's important source of revenue giving it economic growth by 4% (World Bank, 2024). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang Prabang, explore the capital city of Vientiane, and cruise along the Mekong River.

The best time to visit here is between November and February. Luang Prabang, the ancient capital, famous for its royal palaces and monasteries, nestled amid lush landscapes along the Mekong River. Laos is a landlocked country known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, and hill tribe settlements. The capital, Vientiane, showcases Buddhist temples like Wat Si Saket, and the Patuxai war memorial. 

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7. Hungary

While Hungary is known for its spa towns and hot springs can also find great value. 1 Indian Rupee equals 4.44 Hungarian Forint.* The Hungarian Forint (HUF) offers favorable exchange rates for the Indian rupee.

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• Cost of Living: Being an European Country it's budget is slightly higher than other mentioned countries. Here with an approximate Budget of INR 11,000 per day & Visa Cost: INR 7,290 in addition to VFS Global Service Charges, one may experience luxurious treatment (Forbes, 2024).
• Top Attractions: Explore historic Budapest, including the stunning Buda Castle, thermal baths, and vibrant ruin bars.

Hungary's tourism board is partnering with BRANDit to strengthen its presence in India by engaging travel agencies, tour operators, and wedding planners through various activities (Economic Times, 2023). Hungary's central location in Europe makes it easily accessible from India, with convenient flight connections. The country offers a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes, making it an ideal destination for cultural exploration and relaxation.

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Practical Tips visiting Foreign Countries 

1. Currency Exchange: Before exchanging currency, compare rates from different vendors, such as banks and exchange counters, to get the best value for your money. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they often offer less favorable rates.
2. Travel Insurance: It's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. This ensures you're financially protected against unforeseen circumstances during your trip.
3. Local Culture: Research and respect local customs and traditions to show appreciation for the local culture. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to facilitate communication and enhance your interactions with locals.
4. Health Precautions: Check if any vaccinations are recommended or required for your destination. Carry necessary medications and a first-aid kit, and drink bottled or boiled water to avoid health issues.
5. Safety Tips: Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of common scams targeting tourists.
6. Travel Documents: Carry copies of your passport, visa, and other important travel documents, and store them separately from the originals. This ensures you have backup copies in case of loss or theft.

Exploring these countries where the Indian currency is stronger can lead to memorable and affordable travel experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations offer incredible value for your rupee in 2024.

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*Remark: All the currency rates provided in this blog are accurate as of the date 21 June 2024 provided by Google Finance.

Also read: Visa-Free Travel Unlocked: Top Countries for Indian Passport Holders

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Sources:

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1. Leapscholar.
2. Google Trends. 
3. Leapscholar.
4. Economics Times.
5. Economics Times.
6. Hindu Business Lines.
7. Economic Times.
8. CNBCTV18:
9. Economics Times.
10. World Bank.
11. India Today.
12. MakeMyTrip Data.
13. MakeMyTrip Data.
14. Economic Times
15. Forbes.
16. India Today.