The Sri Lankan cabinet has approved a groundbreaking initiative offering free visas to tourists from seven countries, including India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand, beginning on October 24. This pilot project, aimed at enhancing tourism, is scheduled to remain in effect until March 31.
This move makes Sri Lanka the 58th country where Indians can travel visa-free. As Indian travellers seek new international experiences, let’s take a look at some of the top visa-free destinations that present an attractive choice for enthusiasts seeking a hassle-free journey.
Barbados, renowned for its breathtaking beaches, offers travellers the convenience of obtaining a visa on arrival with prior confirmation, making it an accessible tropical paradise for tourists.
India's cultural and geographical neighbour, Bhutan, allows Indian tourists to enter without a visa, provided they have a valid passport or other acceptable forms of identification. For visits of seven days or less, a visa is not required.
Dominica, a mountainous Caribbean island with warm, tropical weather, extends a generous six-month visa exemption to Indian nationals visiting for both business and leisure, offering a wealth of natural beauty to explore.
Mauritius, celebrated for its white sand beaches, stunning lagoons, and coral reefs, invites Indian passport holders to stay visa-free for up to 90 days, creating an appealing option for a tropical getaway.
The Maldives, a South Asian paradise famous for its pleasant tropical weather, welcomes Indian passport holders with open arms, offering a 90-day visa exemption for tourism purposes.
The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, situated off the coast of East Africa, is an ideal destination for eco-friendly travel. It is a visa-free country, but travellers must obtain a permit on arrival from the Seychelles Immigration Department, valid for 30 days.
The Cook Islands, blessed with pleasant weather and abundant stunning beaches, extend a 30-day visa-free stay to Indian tourists. However, travellers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their departure date and have an empty page for visas, ensuring a hassle-free visit to this exotic destination.
Indian passport holders can enjoy a 90-day visa exemption in Haiti, a Caribbean nation sharing borders with the Dominican Republic.
Renowned for its rich heritage and grand temples, Nepal is a must-visit for Indian travel enthusiasts, as Indian citizens are not required to obtain a visa for entry.