Rough daily ranges per person
These are ranges, not quotes: costs vary widely by city, season and how much ground you cover.
Backpacker
Dorms and guesthouses, sleeper trains, street and canteen food.
Mid-range
Small hotels and homestays, AC trains or budget flights, restaurant meals.
Comfort
Heritage or business hotels, private car with driver, guided visits.
Where money goes
Transport
Often the largest line item if you move every two days.
Monument entry
Two-tier pricing at many sites; keep small notes handy.
Guides
Licensed guides at major monuments charge fixed rates.
Permits
ILP and protected-area fees in the Northeast, Ladakh and the Andamans.