Traveling on a budget is not just about saving money. It teaches patience and smart planning. It also teaches how to enjoy the little things in life. This time, I took a budget trip. I traveled from Gurgaon to McLeodganj. The experience was full of surprises, challenges, and valuable lessons.
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The Original Plan vs. Reality
I initially thought of taking a direct Volvo bus from Delhi to Dharamshala. It would have been comfortable, quick, and cost around ₹1500 per person. But my father, who was traveling with me, had a different plan. He suggested taking a mix of trains and buses, which would save us money and add some adventure. I was unsure at first, but I agreed.
Train Journey from Gurgaon to Pathankot
We chose not to take a direct bus. Instead, we took a passenger train from Gurgaon to Old Delhi. This train ride cost just ₹20 per person. It was crowded, hot, and slow, but we managed. Once we reached Old Delhi Railway Station, we had some extra time before our next train. My father suggested we sit at a local tea stall and enjoy chai and samosas.
He smiled and said, “Life is not always about rushing. Sometimes, you should sit and enjoy small moments.” That hit me differently. I always focused on saving time, but he taught me how to enjoy it.
At 8:10 PM, we boarded the Jammu Mail Express from Old Delhi to Pathankot. The ticket cost ₹350 per person in sleeper class. The train was decent, and we got a comfortable berth. But, as expected in budget travel, there were challenges:
- Unclean Washrooms – I checked two washrooms, and both were dirty with no water. Budget travel means adjusting to such things.
- Loud Co-passengers – A group of travelers talked loudly the whole night, which disturbed my sleep. But instead of getting irritated, I used my earphones and watched a movie. Lesson: Always carry earphones for peace.
We reached Pathankot at 6:00 AM.
The Next Ride: Pathankot to Dharamshala
From Pathankot, we took a local HRTC bus to Dharamshala, which cost just ₹100 per person. The ride was bumpy but scenic. The fresh mountain air and green valleys made it worth it.
An important lesson here: Luxury travel may give you comfort, but budget travel gives you stories.
Final Stretch: Dharamshala to McLeodganj
After reaching Dharamshala, we took another local bus to McLeodganj, which was just ₹30 per person. The journey took 30 minutes. Finally, we arrived in the beautiful hill town. It was surrounded by monasteries, mountains, and peace.
Total Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Cost (per person) |
|---|---|
| Gurgaon to Old Delhi (Train) | ₹20 |
| Old Delhi to Pathankot (Sleeper Class) | ₹350 |
| Pathankot to Dharamshala (Bus) | ₹100 |
| Dharamshala to McLeodganj (Bus) | ₹30 |
| Total Cost | ₹500 |
Comparing to a Direct Bus Trip:
- Volvo Bus (Delhi to Dharamshala): ₹1500 per person
- Train + Local Transport: ₹500 per person
- Total Savings: ₹1000 per person
By choosing this route, we saved ₹1000 each and also enjoyed different travel experiences.
Final Thoughts & Real-Life Lessons
- Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean suffering. It means being smart. Instead of spending extra money on luxury, we experienced real travel.
- Sometimes, the journey is more beautiful than the destination. Our train ride, chai-samosa break, and mountain bus ride made the trip memorable.
- Travel teaches patience and flexibility. From crowded trains to delayed buses, you have to adjust and enjoy.
After reaching McLeodganj, we stayed in a budget hostel, explored monasteries, and enjoyed the calmness of the hills. In the end, it was a trip filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable moments.
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