Travel
Planning a last-minute trip can be challenging, particularly when navigating visa requirements for destinations in the Americas and Europe. However, for this long weekend, you can still explore captivating countries that offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for Indian nationals. As of July 3, 2024, the Passport Index lists 43 countries that provide visa-on-arrival facilities for Indian passport holders, and an additional 26 countries allow visa-free travel. With just a few documents, a travel and health insurance, and the right preparations, you can embark on an unforgettable journey.
Here’s a quick guide to 8 accessible countries where you can easily visit with visa-on-arrival or visa-free options:
Mauritius:
- Visa Information: Indian nationals can obtain a visa on arrival for up to 60 days without any visa fees.
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Delhi to Port Louis take about 7.5 hours.
- Things to Do: Explore cultural sites like Apravasi Ghat and the Sugar Museum, enjoy nature at Black River Gorges and the Chamarel Mountains, visit the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens, and discover the unique wildlife on Île aux Aigrettes. Don’t miss the local market in Port Louis and try the local Creole cuisine.
Seychelles:
- Visa Information: Indians do not require a visa; instead, a 30-day visitor’s permit is granted upon arrival.
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Mumbai to Mahé take around 4 hours and 20 minutes.
- Things to Do: Relax on stunning beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Beau Vallon, visit Vallée de Mai on Praslin, and explore the Sainte Anne Marine Park. Enjoy a walking tour of Mahé and visit various picturesque beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Intendance.
Vietnam:
- Visa Information: Indian nationals can obtain a visa on arrival by completing an online application, paying a processing fee, and receiving an approval letter via email (usually within 1 hour to 2 days).
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Delhi take about 5 hours; from Mumbai, it’s 4.5 hours; from Kolkata, it’s 2.5 hours.
- Things to Do: In Ho Chi Minh City, visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the Reunification Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market for a rich cultural experience.
Sri Lanka:
- Visa Information: Obtain a double-entry visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days.
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Mumbai to Colombo are approximately 4.5 hours.
- Things to Do: In Colombo, visit the National Museum, explore the Dutch Hospital Precinct, and sample local dishes like Watalappan. Take day trips to landmarks such as Galle, Sigiriya Lion’s Rock Fortress, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.
Qatar:
- Visa Information: Obtain a visa on arrival for up to 30 days with a hotel reservation made through the Discover Qatar website.
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Mumbai to Doha take about 3.4 hours.
- Things to Do: In Doha, explore Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy leisure activities at Banana Island Resort and the Corniche, visit the Pearl Monument, and tour the Imam Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Wahhab Mosque.
Thailand:
- Visa Information: Obtain a visa on arrival by presenting a valid passport, application form, recent photos, hotel confirmation, and proof of financial means.
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Mumbai to Thailand are approximately 4.25 hours.
- Things to Do: In Bangkok, visit attractions like the Grand Palace, Jim Thompson House, and Lumphini Park. Enjoy shopping at the Chatuchak Weekend Market and explore islands like Phuket, Pattaya, or Koh Samui.
Indonesia:
- Visa Information: Obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days.
- Flight Time: Direct flights from Mumbai to Jakarta take around 6.4 hours.
- Things to Do: In Bali, visit the Tegalalang Rice Fields, Bali Swing, and Ubud Traditional Art Market. Explore Mount Batur, Pura Lempuyang, and Sababay Winery. In Jakarta, explore Old Jakarta, Merdeka Square, and the Thousand Islands.
Jordan:
- Visa Information: Obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 15 days.
- Flight Time: Flights from Mumbai to Amman take about 8 hours, with no direct flights available.
- Things to Do: Enjoy diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea, visit the Lost City of Petra, and explore the Baptism Site. Relax in the Dead Sea, tour Mount Nebo, and visit the ancient cities of Jerash and Madaba.
With these options, you can easily plan a memorable getaway without the stress of complex visa procedures. Happy travels!
