Indian passport holders have a growing list of destinations where they can travel without the hassle of applying for a visa in advance. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extensive holiday, knowing which countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options can save time and money. With 2025 just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to plan your next adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top visa-free and visa-on-arrival destinations for Indian travelers in 2025.

Visa-Free Destinations for Indian Travelers

Traveling without needing a visa is the dream for many, and for Indian passport holders, there are a surprising number of countries that allow hassle-free travel. Here are some of the top destinations where you can enter without a visa:

  1. Bhutan Bhutan remains one of the most sought-after visa-free destinations for Indian travelers. No visa is required for Indians traveling to Bhutan, but you will need to carry a valid passport or an Aadhaar card for identification. The country’s stunning landscapes, unique culture, and sustainable tourism initiatives make it a must-visit destination in the Himalayas.
  2. Nepal Nepal, our friendly neighbor, offers visa-free travel for Indian citizens. You can travel there with either your passport or voter ID. Whether you’re trekking the famous Annapurna Circuit or soaking in the culture of Kathmandu, Nepal is an adventure waiting to unfold.
  3. Indonesia While most of the world needs a visa to visit Indonesia, Indian passport holders are granted a 30-day visa-free entry. You can explore the famous beaches of Bali, the cultural richness of Yogyakarta, or trek through the jungles of Sumatra without any visa-related concerns.
  4. Mauritius Indian passport holders can visit Mauritius without a visa for up to 60 days. Known for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and luxury resorts, Mauritius is an ideal vacation destination for relaxation and exploration.
  5. Maldives The Maldives offers a visa-on-arrival option for Indians, but the good news is you don’t have to worry about lengthy paperwork. You can enter the country without prior approval and stay for up to 30 days, making it an ideal beach destination for a tropical getaway.
  6. Sri Lanka Indians can easily travel to Sri Lanka with an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which can be obtained online. Although it’s technically not a visa-free country, the ease of obtaining an ETA makes it a hassle-free option for travelers. You can explore ancient temples, stunning beaches, and the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka with minimal fuss.
  7. Thailand Thailand allows Indian citizens to enter without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days if they are entering by air. Thailand’s rich culture, food, and beautiful beaches make it one of the most popular travel destinations for Indians.

Visa-on-Arrival Destinations for Indian Travelers

For those who are not lucky enough to find visa-free destinations, there are still plenty of countries that offer visa-on-arrival facilities for Indian passport holders. These destinations often have a relatively quick and easy entry process. Here are the top visa-on-arrival destinations for Indian travelers in 2025:

  1. Kenya Indian travelers can apply for a visa on arrival at Kenya’s international airports. The visa is granted for stays up to 90 days. Kenya is known for its rich wildlife and safaris, including the famous Masai Mara National Reserve.
  2. Tanzania Similar to Kenya, Tanzania offers a visa-on-arrival option for Indian passport holders. You can stay for up to 90 days, giving you ample time to explore the iconic Serengeti National Park and the beautiful island of Zanzibar.
  3. Cambodia Cambodia offers visa-on-arrival for Indians at various entry points, including Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports. A 30-day stay is granted, which is perfect for visiting the majestic Angkor Wat temple complex or experiencing Cambodia’s vibrant history and culture.
  4. Jordan Jordan’s visa-on-arrival policy makes it easy for Indian travelers to visit iconic sites like Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum. You can get a visa upon arrival at most entry points, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
  5. Zimbabwe Indian passport holders can apply for a visa-on-arrival when visiting Zimbabwe, which is valid for up to 90 days. Zimbabwe is home to incredible natural beauty, including Victoria Falls and numerous wildlife reserves, offering an unforgettable experience.
  6. Sri Lanka As mentioned earlier, although Sri Lanka technically requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), this system works similarly to a visa-on-arrival, making it easy for travelers to enter the country without complicated procedures.
  7. Bolivia Bolivia provides visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders, and it’s one of the best places to experience the Andes, salt flats, and rich cultural history. Stay up to 90 days and immerse yourself in Bolivia’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
  8. Malawi Malawi offers a visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens, making it easy for those interested in experiencing the beauty of Lake Malawi and its wildlife. With a valid passport, you can explore this hidden gem in southern Africa.

Tips for Smooth Visa-on-Arrival Travel

When traveling to visa-on-arrival destinations, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind to ensure a smooth travel experience:

  • Travel Documents: Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and enough blank pages for your visa stamp.
  • Visa Fees: Some countries may require payment of visa fees on arrival. It’s always a good idea to carry some local currency or U.S. dollars for this purpose.
  • Return Ticket: Some countries may ask for proof of onward or return travel as part of the visa-on-arrival process.
  • Health and Safety: Make sure you’re aware of any vaccination requirements or travel advisories before embarking on your journey.

Explore Hidden Gems

While these visa-free and visa-on-arrival destinations are popular and convenient, there are also numerous hidden gems that often go unnoticed by travelers. If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, check out Hidden Gems: Best Destinations on Planet Earth Holidays for some unique and lesser-known spots around the globe.

Conclusion

In 2025, Indian travelers have more options than ever when it comes to visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Africa, the temples of Southeast Asia, or the tropical islands of the Indian Ocean, there’s a destination for every traveler. Be sure to check the latest visa requirements and make travel arrangements accordingly. And remember, the world is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered – so pack your bags and get ready for your next adventure!

For more travel inspiration and tips, don’t forget to visit Planet Earth Holidays. Safe travels!