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Oct 29, 2025 | 20 minute read
Top 20 Visa-free Countries for Indians to Visit
Nigel Seah profile picture
Nigel Seah

Top 20 Visa-free Countries for Indians to Visit

Visas? Too much stress, yaar. Forms, queues, and endless waiting? Hard pass. This list is all about visa-free countries where your Indian passport gets stamped with zero drama.

I’ve chased sunsets on island beaches and slurped noodles in buzzing cities and these spots truly welcome Indian travellers (with proper mehmaan-nawazi!). 

They’re budget-friendly too, and a local eSIM keeps you connected minus the roaming panic.

We’ll save visa-on-arrival details for another day. For now, it’s all about “no paperwork, no problem”.

Below: costs, what to pack, what to expect—basically, how to have an epic time without overthinking it. Chalo, let’s go!


Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Indian Nationals

Africa

  • Burundi — VOA — up to 30 days
  • Comoros — VOA — up to 45 days
  • Djibouti — e-Visa preferred, limited VOA at select ports — typically 30 days
  • Guinea-Bissau — VOA/e-Visa — up to 90 days
  • Madagascar — VOA/e-Visa — 15 or 30 days (tourist)
  • Malawi — VOA/e-Visa — up to 30 days
  • Mozambique — VOA — up to 30 days
  • Seychelles — Visitor’s Permit on arrival — up to 90 days
  • Sierra Leone — VOA — up to 30 days
  • Somalia — VOA — up to 30 days
  • Tanzania — VOA/e-Visa — up to 90 days
  • Togo — VOA — 7 days (extendable)
  • Zimbabwe — VOA — up to 30 days (tourist)

Asia

  • Cambodia — VOA/e-VOA — 30 days
  • Indonesia — VOA/e-VOA — 30 days (extendable once)
  • Jordan — VOA/e-Visa — usually 30 days
  • Laos — VOA — 30 days
  • Malaysia — special case — current policy offers short-stay entry without a prior visa for many Indian travellers; historical VOA limited to arrivals from SG/TH/BN/ID for 15 days. 
  • Maldives — Visa on arrival — 30 days
  • Myanmar — e-Visa preferred; limited VOA at some ports — typically 28–30 days
  • Sri Lanka — eTA/VOA framework — typically 30 days (check current promo/fee status)
  • Timor-Leste — VOA — 30 days
  • Thailand — currently visa-free for many Indian tourists for 60 days; the legacy VOA (15 days) applies only if/when the visa-free window is not in force. 
  • United Arab Emirates — VOA (conditional) — 14 days for Indians holding a valid US visa/green card or UK/EU residence permit (extendable once by 14 days)
  • Kuwait — VOA (conditional) for GCC residents meeting eligibility — typically up to 30 days

Oceania

  • Marshall Islands — VOA — usually 30 days
  • Samoa — Entry permit on arrival — up to 60 days
  • Tuvalu — VOA — 30 days

Americas

  • Bolivia — VOA/e-Visa — typically 30 days (tourist)
  • Guyana — VOA (conditional with approval/onward docs) — typically up to 30 days
  • Saint Lucia — VOA — up to 6 weeks

Top Visa-Free Countries We Recommend You Go

Asia 

1. Nepal

View of the Annapurna Sanctuary with snowy mountains and a clear blue sky during the day

Source: Unsplash

Nepal is hands-down one of the most accessible destinations when you want that instant mountain adventure feeling. 

The Himalayas are pure magic, with snow-capped peaks, ancient temples, and that famous Nepalese hospitality that makes you feel like family the moment you arrive.

Kathmandu is where most Indians start, and it's filled with colourful temples and friendly locals. If you're looking for adventure, visit Pokhara for its lakeside views and mountain treks, or consider the famous Everest Base Camp. 

The best part is you don't even need a passport; just your Aadhaar card or any valid Indian ID will do.

  • Things to bring: Nepal eSIM or Asia eSIM, warm layers, trekking boots, water purification tablets, power bank, and a good camera
  • Distance from India: Direct border access - you can literally walk or take a bus
  • Average travel time: 1-2 hours by road from major border points
  • Cheapest transport: Bus tickets from Delhi to Kathmandu start at ₹800
  • Visa requirement: No visa needed for Indians, just valid ID
  • Best times to visit: October to December and March to May
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.6 Nepalese Rupee
  • Budget per day: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 covers comfortable stays, meals, and local transport

2. Bhutan

A mountain with a tall brown and white building on top of it, surrounded by trees during daytime

Source: Unsplash

If you want a trip that’s close to home but feels straight out of a fairy tale, Bhutan is it. 

From the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery to Thimphu’s weekend markets, there’s a quiet spirituality everywhere. I personally love Paro’s old-school architecture and Punakha’s majestic dzongs. 

And the warmth of the locals? Next level. Bhutan’s “Gross National Happiness” isn’t just a slogan, you’ll actually feel it.

  • Things to bring: Bhutan eSIM or Asia eSIM, warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, rain jacket
  • Distance from India: Direct border access via Phuentsholing
  • Average travel time: 4-5 hours by road from Siliguri
  • Cheapest transport: Share taxis from Siliguri cost around ₹300-500
  • Visa requirement: No visa needed for Indians - entry permit issued at border
  • Best times to visit: March to May and September to November
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1 Bhutanese Ngultrum (1:1 parity)
  • Budget per day: ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 depending on accommodation and activities

3. Thailand

Five brown wooden boats in a beach with mountains in a distance during daytime

Source: Unsplash

Thailand is one of my all-time favourites and perfect if you want a top-tier adventure without breaking the bank. 

The moment you land in Bangkok, the energy hits. Night markets, street food, golden temples, and tuk-tuks everywhere. 

For something calmer, head to Chiang Mai or Pai for mountain views and laid-back cafés. 

If it’s beaches you’re after, head to the southern islands, such as Phuket and Krabi, where they deliver with coconut drinks by day and parties by night.

  • Things to bring: Thailand eSIM or Asia eSIM, breathable clothes, sturdy sandals, mosquito spray, sunscreen, and a reusable bag for market finds
  • Distance from India: About 2,300 km from Delhi to Bangkok
  • Average flight time: 4-5 hours direct from major Indian cities
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns often start from ₹15,000 during sale periods
  • Visa requirement: Visa-on-arrival for 15 days or free visa exemption for 30 days
  • Best times to visit: November to early April for pleasant weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.43 Thai Baht
  • Budget per day: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 covers comfortable accommodation, meals, and activities

4. Malaysia

Aerial view of high rise city buildings, green trees and blue clouds during daytime

Source: Unsplash

If you're looking for variety and value, consider visiting Malaysia. I've walked through the stalls of Kuala Lumpur, Penang's heritage streets and taken the cable car up Langkawi's mountains. Guess what? I did all these without burning a hole in my pocket.

The best part about Malaysia is the incredible diversity. In KL, you can shop till you drop at Bukit Bintang, then take a short trip to the Batu Caves for some spiritual vibes. 

Additionally, Penang offers a perfect blend of street art, fantastic food, and colonial architecture that'll keep your Instagram feed busy for weeks.

  • Things to bring: Malaysia eSIM or Asia eSIM, light clothing, umbrella for sudden showers, comfortable walking shoes, and universal adapter
  • Distance from India: About 3,400 km from Delhi to Kuala Lumpur
  • Average flight time: 5-6 hours direct
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹12,000 if you book early
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: December to February for drier weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.054 Malaysian Ringgit
  • Budget per day: ₹3,000 to ₹5,500 gets you great food, decent hotels, and local transport

5. Indonesia (Excluding Bali)

Person farming on rice field surrounded by trees and mountains at a distance

Source: Unsplash

There’s something magical about Indonesia that goes way beyond Bali. 

With thousands of islands across the equator, it’s a country full of surprises. 

Jakarta buzzes with chaotic energy, while Yogyakarta feels like the cultural heart of it all—and your money stretches far. 

For quieter beaches, head to Lombok, where the sand and sea feel untouched. Surabaya seamlessly blends modern and traditional life. One day you’re hiking volcanoes, the next you’re getting lost in colourful local markets.

  • Things to bring: Indonesia eSIM or Asia eSIM, lightweight clothing, mosquito repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, comfortable sandals, universal adapter
  • Distance from India: About 3,500 km from Chennai to Jakarta
  • Average flight time: 5-6 hours direct
  • Cheapest flight price: Often as low as ₹18,000 return with early booking
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: May to September for dry season adventures
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 178 Indonesian Rupiah
  • Budget per day: ₹2,200 to ₹4,000 is very doable for comfortable travel

6. Maldives

Three green palm trees on brown sand beach during daytime with clear blue sky 

Source: Unsplash

As an Indian, you can visit the Maldives on a free 30-day visa on arrival, so it's super easy to get there. With over 1,000 coral islands, there’s so much to experience. From crazy expensive resorts to decent guesthouse options on local islands.

Malé is where you fly in, but the real magic happens on the individual atolls with those insanely clear waters and perfect beaches. 

Also, it's close to India and there are cultural connections, so it doesn't feel totally foreign.

  • Things to bring: Maldives eSIM or Asia eSIM, swimwear, underwater camera, light evening wear, flip-flops, snorkelling equipment
  • Distance from India: About 1,200 km from Kochi to Malé
  • Average flight time: 1.5 hours direct
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹15,000 with local carriers
  • Visa requirement: Visa-on-arrival for Indians - free for 30 days
  • Best times to visit: November to April for dry season
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.18 Maldivian Rufiyaa
  • Budget per day: ₹8,000 to ₹25,000 depending on resort vs. guesthouse choice

7. Macao, China

A night view of a city across the water with the Macau Tower in sight

Source: Unsplash

Macao gives Indians 30 days visa-free, and it's this weird but cool mix of Portuguese colonial stuff and Chinese culture. Macao also has a compact size so you can check out old Portuguese ruins in the morning and hit the casinos at night.

If you ask, the food's the real highlight. You get to taste the famous Portuguese egg tarts and dim sum. You can also visit UNESCO World Heritage sites right next to massive casino complexes, which is quite surreal.

  • Things to bring: Macao eSIM or Asia eSIM, comfortable walking shoes, casual evening wear for casinos, camera, small backpack
  • Distance from India: About 4,800 km from Delhi to Macao
  • Average flight time: 6-7 hours with one connection
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹22,000 via Hong Kong
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: October to December for pleasant weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.096 Macanese Pataca
  • Budget per day: ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 depending on gambling and dining choices

8. Kazakhstan

Brown wooden panel on a body of water, with trees and mountains surrounding

Source: Unsplash

Kazakhstan offers Indians visa-free entry for 14 days, making it ideal for spontaneous trips. It’s massive—the ninth-largest country in the world, with loads to explore. 

Almaty feels like a cross between Moscow and Dubai, while Astana looks straight out of a sci-fi film. Despite the glam, it’s surprisingly affordable. 

And fun fact. Indian films and stars like Mithun Chakraborty, Raj Kapoor, and Aishwarya Rai have long been loved here. 

Classics like Disco Dancer and Zita and Gita still hold nostalgic value, while younger Kazakhs are now into hits like Dangal and Dabangg.

  • Things to bring: Kazakhstan eSIM, Asia eSim, warm clothes even in summer (nights get cold), comfortable walking shoes, portable charger, some basic Russian phrases downloaded
  • Distance from India: About 2,800 km from Delhi to Almaty
  • Average flight time: 4-6 hours with one stop (usually via Istanbul or Dubai)
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 depending on season
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 14 days
  • Best times to visit: May to September for decent weather, avoid winter unless you love serious cold
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 5.5 Kazakhstani Tenge
  • Budget per day: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 (surprisingly affordable for good hotels and meals)

Africa

9. Mauritius

A boat on a body of water with mountains at a distance in Mauritius

Source: Unsplash

Mauritius gives Indians 90 days visa-free, making it perfect for a proper long break. 

Sure, the beaches and resorts are stunning, but what really stands out is the massive Indian community. You’ll hear Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu alongside French and English. 

It feels familiar, yet tropical. Beyond the beach, you’ve got water sports, hikes in Black River Gorges, and a food scene that blends Indian flavours with local ingredients in all the right ways.

  • Things to bring: Mauritius eSIM or Africa eSIM, beachwear, reef-safe sunscreen, light hiking shoes, casual dinner clothes, waterproof phone pouch
  • Distance from India: About 4,000 km from Mumbai to Port Louis
  • Average flight time: 6 hours direct
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹28,000 during off-season
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 90 days
  • Best times to visit: May to December for drier weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.53 Mauritian Rupee
  • Budget per day: ₹4,500 to ₹12,000 depending on accommodation level

10. Seychelles

A small white boat on a body of water surrounded by trees and rocks during the daytime

Source: Unsplash

Seychelles gives Indians 30 days visa-free, which is perfect timing for island hopping. It has 115 islands with incredible beaches and some seriously unique wildlife.

Each island has its own vibe: Mahé has Victoria (tiny capital city), Praslin is more chill, and La Digue has the famous Anse Source d'Argent beach with its giant granite boulders.

The country also has strong historical ties with India, so you'll find Indian influences in the local Creole cuisine.

  • Things to bring: Seychelles eSIM or Africa eSIM, snorkelling gear, waterproof camera, light cotton clothing, hat, biodegradable sunscreen
  • Distance from India: About 3,800 km from Mumbai to Mahé
  • Average flight time: 4.5 hours direct
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹32,000 in shoulder season
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: April to May and October to November
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.16 Seychellois Rupee
  • Budget per day: ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 depending on island and accommodation

The Carribean

11. Jamaica

An aerial view of palm trees, resorts and a large body of water during daytime

Source: Unsplash

Jamaica gives Indians 30 days visa-free, so it brings Caribbean culture within easy reach. The main highlights are the Blue Mountain coffee and jerk chicken that'll blow your mind.

The whole island has this super chill vibe that's the complete opposite of Indian city life. You can check out Dunn's River Falls, Seven Mile Beach in Negril or  Kingston's music scene. You’ll also meet some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

  • Things to bring: Jamaica eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, light tropical clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof bag, comfortable sandals, reggae playlist
  • Distance from India: About 16,000 km from Delhi to Kingston
  • Average flight time: 18-20 hours with connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹65,000 with multiple stops
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: December to April for dry season
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.88 Jamaican Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 depending on accommodation

12. Barbados

A beach with two palm trees and several people sitting and standing on the shore during day time

Source: Unsplash

Barbados grants Indian visa-free access for 90 days, which is perfect for those seeking a long Caribbean adventure. It has this interesting mix of British colonial heritage and Caribbean culture that works really well.

You can swim with sea turtles, explore caves, tour rum distilleries, or catch some world-class cricket. 

The local Bajan food is also quite amazing. It mixes Indian, African, and British flavors in ways that taste familiar but different at the same time.

  • Things to bring: Barbados eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, cricket gear if you're a fan, snorkelling equipment, light layers, insect repellent
  • Distance from India: About 16,500 km from Mumbai to Bridgetown
  • Average flight time: 20-22 hours with connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹70,000 via European hubs
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 90 days
  • Best times to visit: December to April for optimal weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.024 Barbadian Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 for comfortable island living

13. Trinidad and Tobago

Paved road lined with coconut trees and vegetation during the day

Source: Unsplash

Trinidad and Tobago gives Indians 90 days visa-free, and it has the biggest Indian population in the Caribbean. So, you'll feel cultural connections everywhere you go.

Port of Spain comes alive during carnival, while Tobago has great beaches and rainforest hikes. The food scene is interesting too. 

The Indo-Caribbean culture means you'll find familiar foods like roti and curry with calypso music and Caribbean spices. It's like discovering a piece of India that took root in the Caribbean centuries ago.

  • Things to bring: Trinidad eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, carnival costume if visiting during season, comfortable dancing shoes, tropical clothing
  • Distance from India: About 16,800 km from Mumbai to Port of Spain
  • Average flight time: 22-24 hours with connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹75,000 via New York or London
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 90 days
  • Best times to visit: January to May, especially for carnival
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.081 Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹4,500 to ₹9,000 depending on activities and accommodation

14. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Aerial view of Young Island with a large body of water, trees and houses

Source: Unsplash

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines gives Indians 30 days visa-free. This Caribbean nation comprises the main island of Saint Vincent and a chain of smaller islands known as the Grenadines. 

Each of the islands has different experiences. Some are great for hiking volcanoes while others are perfect for sailing.

Not many Indians go there, so you get more authentic experiences without the tourist crowds. The culture also mixes African, European, and indigenous Caribbean influences with reggae and calypso music everywhere.

  • Things to bring: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, sailing clothes if you're into boats, hiking gear for La Soufrière volcano, light tropical wear
  • Distance from India: About 16,200 km from Mumbai to Kingstown
  • Average flight time: 20-22 hours with connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹68,000 via European cities
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: December to May for dry season
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.032 Eastern Caribbean Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 depending on island choice

15. Dominica

Whale tail showing above a body of water during daytime

Source: Unsplash

If you love nature, you’ll love it even more when you visit Dominica. Dominica offers Indians 21 days of visa-free travel, and it's essentially the Caribbean for nature lovers. 

It’s known as the "Nature Island", and it's not just marketing. They have rainforests, waterfalls, and whale-watching opportunities that rival many eco-destinations.

The entire island is dedicated to sustainable tourism and the conservation of its natural resources. So, hiking trails actually lead to hidden waterfalls, and the coastal waters are great for diving. You can go whale watching and spot sperm whales, which is pretty special.

  • Things to bring: Dominica eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, hiking boots, rain gear, binoculars for whale watching, insect repellent, waterproof gear
  • Distance from India: About 16,400 km from Mumbai to Roseau
  • Average flight time: 22-24 hours with multiple connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹72,000 via Caribbean hubs
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 21 days
  • Best times to visit: February to May for optimal weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.032 Eastern Caribbean Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹4,500 to ₹8,500 for nature-focused travel

16. Haiti

Three white-brownish rocks and a man riding a boat on the sea during daytime

Source: Unsplash

Haiti allows Indians to stay 90 days visa-free access, but trust me, this is not your typical Caribbean vacation. It’s one of the Caribbean's most culturally rich destinations. As the first successful slave rebellion that led to independence, the culture is intense and authentic.

Port-au-Prince has amazing art, music, and Creole culture, but the country faces real economic challenges. But you need to go with the right mindset: that it’s about genuine cultural experiences, not luxury resorts. 

Also, the people are incredibly hospitable and resilient.

  • Things to bring: Haiti eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, modest clothing, basic French phrases, small gifts for local families, flexible expectations, cultural sensitivity
  • Distance from India: About 16,600 km from Mumbai to Port-au-Prince
  • Average flight time: 24+ hours with connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹75,000 via US or Caribbean routes
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 90 days
  • Best times to visit: November to March for cooler, drier weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.58 Haitian Gourde
  • Budget per day: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 for basic to moderate comfort

17. St. Kitts and Nevis

Coastal view with winding roads, vegetation, surrounded by a large body of water and distant mountains

Source: Unsplash

St. Kitts and Nevis offers Indians a generous 6-month visa-free stay. 

This tiny twin-island nation is renowned for its natural beauty and laid-back island vibes. 

St. Kitts has a scenic railway that’s easily one of the best train rides in the region, while Nevis is quieter, with cloud forest hikes and peaceful shores like Pinney’s Beach. 

What really sets it apart? It’s way less crowded than other Caribbean spots, so you can often have entire beaches to yourself and truly switch off.

  • Things to bring: Saint Kitts and Nevis eSIM or Caribbean eSIM, light tropical clothing, hiking shoes for volcano trails, snorkelling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, rain jacket for brief showers
  • Distance from India: About 16,400 km from Mumbai to Basseterre
  • Average flight time: 20-24 hours with connections via London or New York
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹75,000 via European or North American hubs
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 90 days
  • Best times to visit: December to April for dry season and fewer hurricanes
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.032 Eastern Caribbean Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹8,000 to ₹20,000 depending on accommodation and dining choices

Oceania

18. Fiji

A large swimming pool, near a tropical ocean surrounded by tall palm trees

Source: Unsplash

Indians can visit Fiji and stay for up to 120 days without a visa. That's four whole months of being in paradise.

 Approximately 37% of the population is of Indian descent, so you'll hear Hindi, find Indian cuisine, and even catch Bollywood films at local cinemas.

Over 300 islands means there's something for everyone: luxury resorts on private islands, budget backpacker hostels, fantastic diving, and traditional village stays. 

The famous Fijian greeting "Bula!" and genuine smiles make you feel welcome, and the Indian cultural presence makes it feel familiar too.

  • Things to bring: Fiji eSIM or Oceania eSIM, snorkelling gear, light cotton clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, flip-flops, underwater camera
  • Distance from India: About 10,500 km from Mumbai to Nadi
  • Average flight time: 12-14 hours with one stop
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹45,000 via Singapore
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 120 days
  • Best times to visit: May to October for dry season
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 0.026 Fijian Dollar
  • Budget per day: ₹3,500 to ₹12,000 depending on island and accommodation choice

19. Vanuatu

Person snorkelling in the turquoise beach water

Source: Unsplash

Vanuatu gives Indian passport holders 30-day visa-free. Vanuatu is a Pacific island nation and it has some of the world’s most accessible volcano experiences. You can actually get close to active ones safely, which is pretty rare.

Port Vila's the main city, but Tanna Island is where you go for volcano viewing that's both safe and incredible. 

Also, the country’s official language includes English and French, plus the local Bislama, so communication is not a problem. 

Fun fact: Bungee jumping was invented here, and you can swim with dugongs if that's your thing.

  • Things to bring: Vanuatu eSIM or Oceania eSIM, sturdy hiking boots, heat-resistant clothing for volcano visits, diving gear, adventure spirit
  • Distance from India: About 8,500 km from Mumbai to Port Vila
  • Average flight time: 14-16 hours with connections
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹55,000 via Australia
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 30 days
  • Best times to visit: April to October for drier weather
  • Currency exchange rate: 1 INR ≈ 1.4 Vanuatu Vatu
  • Budget per day: ₹5,000 to ₹9,000 for moderate comfort

20. Cook Islands

People on a beach with clustered palm trees on the shore during daytime

Source: Unsplash

Indians can stay up to 31 days on a visa-free entry. Rarotonga is the main island with this protected lagoon, but Aitutaki’s lagoon is often called the world's most beautiful.

They keep their Polynesian traditions strong but use New Zealand dollars and speak English, so it's not too complicated. Here, you’ll experience traditional dancing, local crafts, super friendly people and way fewer crowds than the more popular destinations.

  • Things to bring: Oceania eSIM, snorkelling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, light tropical clothing, underwater camera
  • Distance from India: About 12,500 km from Mumbai to Rarotonga
  • Average flight time: 16-18 hours via New Zealand
  • Cheapest flight price: Returns from ₹65,000 via Auckland
  • Visa requirement: Visa-free for Indians for up to 31 days
  • Best times to visit: May to October for dry season
  • Currency exchange rate: Uses New Zealand Dollar - 1 INR ≈ 0.018 NZD
  • Budget per day: ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 for island living

Ready for Your Next Visa-Free Trip with Airalo?

Bas, ho gaya. No paperwork, no drama. From Pacific islands to chic European cities, your Indian passport opens more doors than you might think, yaar.

The magic of visa-free travel is spontaneity. Decide on Friday to chase Belgrade nightlife, or book a last-minute flight to Thailand for epic street food. Bilkul stress mat lo, chalo nikalte hain.

Wherever you visit, just make sure you have your internet connectivity sorted before you go. Having an Airalo eSIM is your best bet, and again, here’s why:

  • Skip Wi-Fi hunts and costly roaming.
  • Connect instantly without  scrambling at SIM shops
  • Reliable data across borders and islands
  • Stay safer online—no sketchy public Wi-Fi
  • No surprise bills weeks later
  • Solid connection, even when locals drop out

Pro tip: Stay reliably online, especially if you are a digital nomad like me, so you can book, navigate, and vibe check on the fly. 

Safe travels, shubh yatra. We may cross paths at a visa-free stop soon.


FAQs About Visa-Free Travel for Indians

Which countries can Indians visit without a visa?

Indians can visit 35+ countries without a visa or with visa-on-arrival facilities. These include popular destinations like Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius, Seychelles, Nepal, Bhutan, and several Caribbean nations. The exact number changes as diplomatic relations evolve, so always check current requirements before booking.

How long can Indians stay in visa-free countries?

Stay durations vary by country. Nepal and Bhutan have no time limits for Indians, Fiji allows 120 days, while most countries offer 30-90 days. Countries like Thailand (15 days visa-on-arrival) and Dominica (21 days) have shorter periods, so plan accordingly.

Do I need travel insurance for visa-free countries?

While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for all international travel. Some countries may ask for proof of insurance at immigration, and medical costs abroad can be prohibitive without coverage. It's a small investment for a huge peace of mind.

Can I extend my stay in visa-free countries?

Extension policies vary by destination. Some countries, like Thailand and Malaysia, allow extensions through local immigration offices, while others require you to leave and re-enter. So, research specific extension policies and fees for your chosen destination before travelling.

What documents do I need for visa-free travel?

Besides a valid passport (usually with 6+ months' validity), many countries require proof of onward travel, hotel reservations, and sufficient funds. Some countries may ask for vaccination certificates or travel insurance. Always carry digital and physical copies of important documents.

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Nigel Seah
Nigel is an avid Singaporean traveller and adventurer, with a strong curiosity for tech. During his one-year stay in Brazil, Nigel journeyed across South America, soaking in the wonders of the Amazon rainforest and the raw beauty of Patagonia. As an SEO consultant, his work with diverse clients, from global tech companies to niche SMEs, brings him on travels across Asia including China, Laos and the far-flung islands of South-East Asia. Expect practical, insightful travel advice grounded in real-world experience and a love for the road less traveled.
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