South Korea, a country that has enraptured the world with its K-pop culture, stands out as amongst one of Asia’s most fascinating tourist destinations. It boasts modern architecture that rivals Japan, historical sites that compete with Turkey, Buddhist temples reminiscent of China, and volcanic geology similar to Indonesia. And let’s not forget the unique Korean cuisine, a treasure trove of delicacies you absolutely won’t find anywhere else.
However, embarking on a journey to South Korea is an adventure that requires careful planning. You need a solid financial plan to make the most of your trip. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive breakdown of the South Korea trip cost from India for couple.
1. Visa Costs
You require a tourist visa to visit South Korea. Hence, the visa costs constitute the first item on the list of South Korea trip cost from India.
To visit South Korea, you must apply for a short-term tourist visa. This visa is single-entry and valid for 90 days from the issue date. The visa charges are INR 3200 per person. However, if you apply through an agency, you can expect to pay more for their service.
The documents required for a South Korean tourist visa include:
- Passport with more than six months validity.
- Two passport-size photographs.
- Filled online visa application form.
- Employment proof.
- One year salary slip.
- Income tax returns of last two years.
- Bank statement for the previous six months.
- Health condition form.
For a typical application, the visa processing time is at least 10 days in Chennai and 12 days in Bangalore.
2. International Flight Costs
The next item on the South Korea trip budget is the cost of international flights. Flights are available from all major Indian cities to Seoul in South Korea. Depending upon the season, time, and type of booking, a round-trip flight from India to South Korea can cost anywhere between INR 30000 to 70000.
By booking your South Korea flight tickets in advance, you can take advantage of airline offers to get a good flight price deal and avoid last-minute hassle.
3. Accommodation Costs
Accommodation costs are another significant part of a South Korea travel budget. These costs vary depending on the type of hotel, room, and travel season. Available accommodation options in South Korea with average prices include:
- Dorm beds in well-reviewed hotels: INR 1500 to 2000 per night.
- Private rooms in hostels: INR 2500 per night.
- Guesthouses: INR 5000 per night.
- Four-star hotels: INR 12000 to 17000 per night.
- Five-star hotels: INR 20000 to 30000 per night.
During the peak travel months from June to August and December, accommodation costs can shoot up 30 to 50%. You should make reservations at least three months in advance for the best deals.
4. Transportation Costs
Transportation costs are the next component of South Korea tour cost.
To travel between cities in South Korea, you can consider the Korea Train Express (KTX), which is fast and reliable. It costs INR 3000 on average, depending upon the distance and type of booking.
To travel within a city, you can consider subway trains for convenience and efficiency, especially in urban areas. A subway train ticket will cost you INR 90 to 200 on average, depending upon the distance.
You can also consider general and private taxis for intra-city travel. General taxis (usually in orange, silver, or white) cost INR 200 for 1.6 km. On the other hand, premium taxis (typically black) will cost INR 400 for the first three km. These are comparatively more spacious, and most of the drivers are English-speaking.
5. Food Costs
Next, we consider the food costs segment of South Korean travel costs. South Korean cuisine is truly unique and one of the highest points of a South Korean trip. The food options available in South Korea with average prices include:
- Street food: INR 90 to 400 per dish.
- Mid-range restaurants: INR 400 to 1200 per person.
- Casual BBQ restaurants: INR 1200 to 2000 per person.
- High-end restaurants: INR 4500 to 8500 per person.
- Cafes: INR 500 to 700.
6. Cost of Attractions
The cost of attractions is next in South Korea travel prices. When it comes to things to see and do, South Korea truly offers a wide range of choices. Some activities and attractions that you must experience in South Korea, along with their average prices, include:
- Museums and palaces: Either free or INR 200 to 400 per person.
- Amusement parks: INR 3000 to 4000 per person.
- Activities (cooking, wine brewing, K-pop dance classes): INR 4000 to 7000.
Conclusion
This completes the breakdown of South Korea travel cost. If you’re a first-time visitor to South Korea, this guide can help you effortlessly plan your finances.
Once you have finalised your plan, you must decide how you will fund the cost to travel to South Korea. A trip abroad can be expensive and strain your savings. Keep your savings for your future and consider the convenience of travel loans. For a reliable lender, look no further than Tata Capital.
Tata Capital’s personal loan for travel with minimal paperwork, zero collateral, and flexible repayment has helped numerous travellers realise their travel goals without worrying about finances at every step.
FAQs
The cost of living for Indians in South Korea is INR 1.5 Lakhs approx.
South Korean visas are not free for Indians. The cost of a South Korean single-entry tourist visa for Indians is INR 3550.
The minimum bank balance required for a South Korean travel visa is INR 70000 per person.
If your Indian debit card has an international usage option, you can use it in South Korea. Contact your bank for more information.
The cost of a South Korean single-entry tourist visa for Indians is Indian rupees 3550.
29 January 2025
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