South Korea Trip Cost from India

South Korea has become a popular destination for Indian travellers looking for a mix of modern life, natural beauty, and rich culture. From the tech-savvy streets of Seoul to the calm temples in Gyeongju, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of K-pop, K-dramas, or just curious about Korean food and history, South Korea offers a unique travel experience.

Planning a trip to South Korea involves budgeting for flights, hotels, local travel, meals, and sightseeing. The total South Korea trip cost from India may vary based on the cities you visit, the time of year, and how you prefer to travel. Knowing what to expect helps you manage your expenses and enjoy your trip without stress.

Your total travel budget depends on several key expenses. From flights and accommodation to food choices, here’s how each factor can impact your South Korea tour cost from India:

Flight Costs

Airfare is a significant part of your travel budget. Round-trip flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai to Seoul typically range between ₹35,000 and ₹55,000, depending on the airline, booking time, and season. Booking at least 6–8 weeks in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help you secure better deals.

Accommodation Costs

South Korea offers a variety of lodging options:

• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses range from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per night

• Midrange: 3-star hotels typically cost between ₹3,500 and ₹6,000 per night

• Luxury: 4 to 5-star hotels can range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 or more per night

Note: Prices may vary based on the city and proximity to tourist attractions.

Food Costs

Dining expenses can vary:

• Budget: Street food and local eateries offer meals for ₹500 to ₹800 per day

• Midrange: Casual dining restaurants may cost around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per day

• High-end: Fine dining experiences can exceed ₹2,500 per day

Transport Costs within South Korea

Getting around is convenient and affordable:

• Public Transport: Subway and bus fares start at approximately ₹90 per ride

• Taxis: Base fare is around ₹250, with additional charges based on distance

• Intercity Travel: High-speed KTX trains between cities like Seoul and Busan cost between ₹2,500 to ₹4,000

Note: Purchasing a T-money card can make public transportation more convenient and slightly cheaper.

Activities and Sightseeing

Entrance fees for attractions vary:

• Palaces and Museums: Entry fees range from ₹65 to ₹650

• Theme Parks: Tickets for places like Everland or Lotte World cost around ₹3,200 to ₹4,000

• Cultural Experiences: Hanbok rentals or traditional performances may cost between ₹650 to ₹2,000

Visa Cost

Indian passport holders need a visa to enter South Korea. The fee for a single-entry tourist visa (valid for up to 90 days) is approximately around ₹3,300. This should be considered in the travel cost to South Korea from India. Processing times and fees may vary, so it's advisable to check with the official South Korean visa application center before applying.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for international trips. Basic plans covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage loss start at ₹30 per day, totaling around ₹210 for a 7-day trip. Comprehensive plans with higher coverage may cost more.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Additional South Korea travel costs may include:

• SIM Card: Prepaid SIM cards with data plans cost between ₹2,000 to ₹4,000

• Souvenirs and Shopping: Budget around ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on your shopping preferences

• Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but appreciated in certain situations

An India to South Korea trip cost is usually high when upfront. If you don’t want to use your savings all at once, there are several ways to manage your travel expenses more easily.

Using Credit Cards 

You can use your credit card for booking flights, accommodation, and tours. Some cards offer rewards, lounge access, or international spend benefits. Cards that support forex transactions with lower mark-up fees are especially useful abroad. If your card allows, you can convert large purchases into EMIs for easier repayment.

EMI on Credit Cards

Flight tickets or hotel bookings can be expensive. If your credit card supports EMI conversion, you can break these payments into smaller monthly instalments. This is useful when booking early. Just make sure to check the interest rate and repayment duration before using this option.

Travel Loans or Personal Loans

If you're planning a longer or more comfortable holiday, a personal loan for travel may help. These loans can cover the cost of flights, hotel stays, activities, and even shopping. You can choose the loan amount and tenure based on your repayment capacity. Always compare interest rates and processing fees before applying.

Save Before You Travel

If you prefer to avoid credit or loans, you can start saving for the trip a few months in advance. Set a monthly savings goal based on your expected total South Korea tour cost. This way, you reduce last-minute stress and keep your budget under control.

Mix Multiple Options

You don’t need to rely on just one method. For example, you could use your savings for the visa and insurance, a credit card for flights, and EMIs for accommodation. Combining options lets you manage spending without putting pressure on a single source of funds.

Planning your South Korea trip becomes much easier when you know what to expect in terms of costs. A budget planner helps you map out expenses clearly, so you can decide where to save and where to spend. It also prevents unexpected costs from affecting your travel plans.

Here's a sample budget for a 7-day trip to South Korea, ideal for a budget-conscious traveller:

South Korea offers a mix of ancient palaces, bustling cities, scenic mountains, and coastal beauty. Whether you enjoy culture, shopping, nature, or technology, there’s something for every kind of traveller. 

Here are some must-visit places to consider:

Seoul

Seoul is the capital city and the heart of modern South Korea. This city alone is worth the cost of a South Korea trip from India. You can visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, or shop in Myeongdong and Hongdae. Don’t miss the Lotte World Tower for panoramic views or the immersive Starfield Library. It’s a city where tradition meets modern life.

Busan

Located on the southern coast, Busan is known for its beaches, seafood, and temples. Visit Haeundae Beach, explore the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, or take a cable car ride near Songdo Beach. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built by the sea, is a peaceful and scenic spot.

Jeju Island

Jeju is a volcanic island known for its natural beauty. You can hike up Hallasan Mountain, walk along lava tubes, or relax at Hamdeok Beach. Other attractions include Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) and Jeju Folk Village. Jeju is perfect for couples, families, or solo travellers looking for a quiet escape.

Gyeongju

Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is rich in history and traditional Korean architecture. You can explore Bulguksa Temple, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and royal tombs scattered across the city. It’s a peaceful destination ideal for history lovers.

Incheon

Often used as a transit city, Incheon offers more than just an airport. Visit Chinatown, explore Songdo Central Park, or walk around Wolmido Island. The city is close to Seoul and makes for a good day trip.

DMZ (Demilitarised Zone)

For a unique experience, take a day tour to the DMZ, the border between North and South Korea. South Korea travel packages from India usually include stops at Dora Observatory, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, and the Joint Security Area (JSA). It offers insight into Korea’s divided history.

Suwon

Suwon is famous for its well-preserved Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to the Samsung Innovation Museum, which tech enthusiasts may enjoy.

South Korea offers a rich mix of cultural, natural, and modern experiences. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or a fan of contemporary attractions, there's something for everyone. 

Here are some activities you might enjoy:

Explore Seoul’s Royal Palaces

Visit the grand palaces of Seoul, such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. These historic sites offer a glimpse into Korea's royal past and are perfect for cultural exploration.

Hike in Seoraksan National Park

If you enjoy nature, consider hiking in Seoraksan National Park. The park features scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and beautiful mountain landscapes, especially vibrant during autumn.

Experience Traditional Hanok Villages

Discover traditional Korean architecture by visiting hanok villages like Bukchon in Seoul or Jeonju Hanok Village. Walking through these areas provides insight into Korea's cultural heritage.

Enjoy Korean Street Food

Try local delicacies at street markets. Popular options include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and various skewered meats. Markets like Myeongdong and Gwangjang in Seoul are great places to start.

Visit Jeju Island

Jeju Island offers natural attractions like waterfalls, volcanic craters, and beaches. It's a great destination for relaxation and exploring unique landscapes.

Attend a Cultural Performance

Experience Korean culture through performances such as traditional music, dance, or contemporary shows. Venues in Seoul often host a variety of performances catering to different interests.

Explore Modern Attractions

For a taste of modern Korea, visit areas like Gangnam in Seoul, known for shopping and entertainment. Attractions like Lotte World Tower offer panoramic city views.

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. However, for comfortable weather and vibrant scenery, certain times of the year stand out.

Here’s the perfect time to visit the country:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit South Korea. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 18°C. Cherry blossoms bloom across the country, especially in cities like Gyeongju and Seoul, creating picturesque landscapes. This season also hosts various festivals and events, making it an ideal time for cultural exploration.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn rivals spring as the best time to visit. The weather remains pleasant, with average temperatures between 19°C and 21°C. The country is adorned with vibrant fall foliage, particularly in national parks and mountainous regions. This season is also less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in South Korea is characterised by high humidity and temperatures often exceeding 30°C. The monsoon season, known as "jangma" occurs during this time, bringing heavy rainfall. While this season offers lush green landscapes, the heat and humidity can be challenging for some travelers.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings cold and dry weather, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, this season offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, especially in regions like Gangwon-do. Winter festivals and snow-covered landscapes provide a unique charm for visitors interested in cold-weather activities.

Travelling to South Korea doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning, you can cut down on unnecessary costs and enjoy more experiences without overspending. 

Here are a few ways to save money on your trip:

Book Flights Early

Airfare can take up a big part of your travel budget. Booking your tickets at least 6–8 weeks in advance can help you get lower prices. Also, compare fares across different websites and use incognito mode when searching.

Travel During Off-season

Spring and autumn are peak seasons in South Korea. If you travel in late winter or early summer, you may get better deals on flights and hotels. Avoid long weekends and Korean national holidays.

Stay in Budget Hotels or Hostels

South Korea has clean and comfortable budget stays. Look for guesthouses, hostels, or capsule hotels that offer shared kitchens and free breakfast. You can also find dormitory-style rooms in city centres.

Use Public Transport

South Korea has a strong and affordable public transport system. Use the subway, local buses, and intercity trains instead of taxis. Buy a T-money card for cashless travel across buses and trains with discounted fares.

Eat at Local Eateries

Skip fancy restaurants and try local food at street stalls or small family-run eateries. You’ll find delicious meals like Bibimbap, Kimbap, and Korean pancakes at lower prices than tourist cafés.

Get a City Pass

In cities like Seoul or Busan, you can buy a city pass that covers transport and discounted entry to popular attractions. These passes are useful if you plan to visit multiple sites in a short time.

Avoid Excess Shopping

Korean skincare, souvenirs, and fashion can be tempting. But prices may be higher in tourist areas. Set a shopping limit, and avoid impulse purchases unless you’ve compared prices first.

Use Free Attractions

Many parks, temples, museums, and cultural centres have free or low-cost entry. You can plan your day around such places to balance your budget without missing out on experiences.

South Korea is a safe and tourist-friendly country. However, being aware of a few common tricks can help you avoid unnecessary expenses or inconvenience during your trip.

Here are the scams you need to be careful about:

Overpriced Taxi Rides

While South Korea is generally safe, there have been reports of taxi drivers, particularly in tourist-heavy areas, not using meters and overcharging passengers. To avoid this, it's advisable to use the Kakao T app (also known as Kakao Taxi) for booking rides. 

This app allows you to request taxis with transparent pricing and is available in English. For tourists without a Korean phone number, the app offers a "pay to the driver" option, enabling you to pay in cash or card directly to the driver .

Unofficial Tour Operators

Some people near tourist spots may offer low-cost private tours or entry passes. These may not be genuine or may skip important sites. Book tours only through verified apps, hotel desks, or trusted travel platforms to avoid poor service or hidden costs.

Fake Goods at Local Markets

You may come across shops selling branded products at very low prices. Many of these items may be fake. Stick to official stores or well-reviewed outlets if you’re planning to buy electronics, skincare, or fashion items.

Card Skimming at ATMs

Although rare, there have been cases of card skimming at isolated ATMs. Use ATMs inside banks, malls, or airports. Always shield the keypad when entering your PIN, and avoid ATMs that look tampered with.

Overcharging at Tourist Restaurants

Some restaurants near major attractions may overcharge, especially if there is no menu with prices. Always ask for the menu first or confirm the price before ordering, especially if the place seems touristy.

Your total South Korea trip cost depends on how you prefer to travel. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for a more comfortable or premium stay, here’s a simple comparison to help you plan: