A couple working remotely from the scenic Himalayan town of Manali has captivated social media users by sharing a detailed breakdown of their surprisingly affordable lifestyle. Operating their Instagram page, 'Two Vagabond Monks,' they claim their core monthly expenses remain under ₹12,000, sparking widespread discussion about the viability of mountain living for digital nomads.
Affordable Mountain Living
The couple resides in a one-room kitchen (1RK) apartment, enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas for a modest monthly rent of just ₹5,000. While their living space is basic and furnished with items they acquired themselves, they note that fully furnished options in the area can be considerably more expensive, depending on location and amenities.
Their utility costs are also notably low, with monthly electricity bills typically staying under ₹300. By preparing most meals at home, their grocery expenses average around ₹4,000 each month. For occasional dining out or during power outages, they allocate approximately ₹1,500 monthly to local cafés and restaurants.
Minimal Transportation Costs
One significant factor contributing to their low budget is minimal transportation spending. As remote workers, they avoid daily commutes and primarily rely on walking for nearby destinations. This habit keeps their monthly travel expenses rarely exceeding ₹500.
Combined, their rent, utilities, groceries, dining, and transportation costs consistently stay below the ₹12,000 mark. This detailed account, shared in a viral video, has resonated with many social media users, who praise the couple's disciplined approach and view their lifestyle as both attainable and aspirational.