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How to Travel Offbeat India Without Breaking the Bank : Abir Patel

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At The Diffr Show, we had an inspiring conversation with Abir Patel, the founder of Ghumo India Community, a travel movement redefining how people explore India. Forget your typical Goa or Manali trip – Abir takes travelers to hidden gems like Gurez Valley, Bangaz Valley, and offbeat Chhattisgarh that most Indians haven’t heard of. If you’ve ever wondered how to travel sustainably, explore India on a budget, and experience true adventure, this blog is for you!

Who is Abir Patel?

A UPSC dropout turned travel entrepreneur, Abir Patel took the road less traveled literally! He started the Ghumo India Community to change the way people experience India. Instead of commercialized itineraries, his focus is on offbeat, sustainable, and experiential travel.

How to Travel India Without Money?

You might think traveling requires a big budget, but Abir disagrees. According to him, India is a country where everything is possible for free if you know how to travel smartly. From hitchhiking with truck drivers to staying in Gurudwaras and eating at langars, Abir shares how anyone can explore India without spending a fortune.

Key Takeaways for Budget Travelers:

  • Hitchhiking – Learn the art of getting free rides safely.
  • Community Stays – Choose homestays over hotels for a richer experience.
  • Free Meals – Explore temple offerings, local feasts, and community kitchens.
  • Slow Travel – Instead of rushing, spend weeks in one place and truly absorb the culture.

The Problem with Commercial Travel

Most travelers in India follow the same itinerary: Manali, Goa, Rishikesh, and Udaipur. But real travelers seek adventure beyond tourist traps. Abir realized that India has so many untouched locations where even locals haven’t set foot.

How Ghumo India is Bringing Change:

  • Remote Destinations – Trips to unknown villages, ancient forests, and unexplored valleys.
  • Festival-Based Travel – Experiencing India’s rich culture through events like Theyyam in Kerala, Rath Yatra in Odisha, and the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland.
  • Kashmir Border Trips – Exploring military-controlled regions like Gurez Valley and Kiran Border.

Sustainable Travel – The Future of Tourism

Abir strongly believes in eco-friendly tourism. Ghumo India Community ensures that travelers don’t contribute to pollution. They eliminate plastic use, opt for homestays, and support local vendors instead of big commercial chains.

The Rise of Digital Nomad & Caravan Travel

With remote work on the rise, more people are opting for slow travel and digital nomad lifestyles. Abir shared that caravan trips are gaining traction, where travelers explore places like the coastal route from Mumbai to Kerala while living in a moving home!

Foreign Travelers vs. Indian Travelers – A Mindset Shift

According to Abir, foreign travelers love to explore hidden places, whereas most Indian travelers still stick to mainstream destinations. However, a new wave of adventure-seekers and backpackers is emerging in India, choosing experiences over luxury.

Music & Travel – The Perfect Pair

One of the most interesting parts of the podcast was how music influences travel. Abir believes that every place has a soundtrack. For instance, listening to Rajnigandha’s theme song while sitting on a Banaras ghat enhances the experience!

Conclusion

If you’ve been planning your next trip using MakeMyTrip or Goibibo, it’s time to rethink your travel plans. India is full of untouched beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures beyond what commercial tourism offers.

With the Ghumo India Community, Abir Patel is building a travel revolution that is raw, real, and rooted in experience. So, if you want to ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary,Watch the full podcast on The Diffr Show to hear Abir Patel’s insane travel stories, revolutionary ideas, and expert travel hacks, which will inspire you to pack your bags right now!

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