Last-minute travel plans can often be complicated by visa requirements, especially when visiting the Americas or Europe. However, this long weekend, you can still explore exciting destinations that offer visa on arrival or visa-free entry for Indian nationals. According to the Passport Index, as of July 3, 2024, 43 countries provide visa on arrival for Indian passport holders, and 26 countries allow visa-free travel. With the necessary documents, fees, and travel insurance in hand, you can pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable holiday.
Here’s a quick guide to 8 nearby countries you can visit with visa-on-arrival or visa-free access:
Mauritius:
- Visa Information: Visa on arrival for up to 60 days with no visa fees.
- Flight Time: 7.30 hours from Delhi to Port Louis, with direct flights available.
- Things to Do: Visit Apravasi Ghat, Penny Museum, and Sugar Museum; hike the Black River Gorges; explore the Mountains of Chamarel and Île aux Aigrettes; visit Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens and the Rodrigues Coastal Walk; climb Le Morne Brabant; shop at the Port Louis market, and try Creole cuisine.
Seychelles:
- Visa Information: Visa-free entry for Indian nationals, with a 30-day maximum stay visitor’s permit on arrival.
- Flight Time: 4.20 hours from Mumbai to Mahe, with direct flights available.
- Things to Do: Explore Anse Source d’Argent, Beau Vallon, Vallée de Mai, and various stunning beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Intendance; take a walking tour of Mahé; visit Curieuse & St. Pierre and Sainte Anne Marine Park.
Vietnam:
- Visa Information: Visa on arrival is available for Indian nationals, but an online application and processing fee are required before flying.
- Flight Time: 5 hours from Delhi, 4.50 hours from Mumbai, and 2.50 hours from Kolkata.
- Things to Do: In Ho Chi Minh City, visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, The Reunification Palace, Nguyen Hue Street, City Hall, Ben Thanh Market, and the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Sri Lanka:
- Visa Information: Obtain a double-entry visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days.
- Flight Time: 4.30 hours from Mumbai to Colombo, with direct flights available.
- Things to Do: Explore Colombo’s National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple, and local shopping spots; enjoy day trips to Galle, Sigiriya Lion’s Rock Fortress, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.
Also read: Opt for Direct Flights and Eco-Friendly Hotels: Tips for Responsible and Sustainable Travel
Qatar:
- Visa Information: Visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days, provided hotel reservations are made through the Discover Qatar website.
- Flight Time: 3.40 hours from Mumbai to Doha, with direct flights available.
- Things to Do: In Doha, visit Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art, Katara Cultural Village, Banana Island Resort, Corniche, and the Falcon Souq; explore local landmarks like the Imam Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Wahhab Mosque, Pearl Monument, and Doha Fort.
Indonesia:
- Visa Information: Visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days.
- Flight Time: 6.40 hours from Mumbai to Jakarta, with direct flights available.
- Things to Do: In Bali, visit Tegalalang Rice Fields, Bali Swing & Bali Bird Nest, Ubud Traditional Art Market, and Mount Batur; in Jakarta, explore Old Jakarta, Merdeka Square, Chinatown, and the Thousand Islands.
Jordan:
- Visa Information: Visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 15 days.
- Flight Time: 8 hours from Mumbai to Amman, with no direct flights.
- Things to Do: Enjoy Red Sea diving and snorkeling, visit the Lost City of Petra and the Baptism Site, dip in the Dead Sea, explore Mount Nebo and ancient cities like Jerash and Madaba, and tour the Ummayad Castles.
Thailand:
- Visa Information: Visa on arrival for Indians, with required documents including a valid passport, application form, recent photos, hotel confirmation, credit card and bank statements.
- Flight Time: 4.25 hours from Mumbai to Thailand, with direct flights available.
- Things to Do: In Bangkok, visit Jim Thompson House, Lumphini Park, the Flower Market, The Grand Palace, and Wat Pho; explore Phuket, Pattaya, or Koh Samui Island; shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market.