1. Hong Kong
Up to 14 days, Hong Kong allows Indian citizens to stay visa-free. A shopper’s paradise, it has Disneyland, night markets, awesome food and is full of futuristic skyscrapers.
When here, visit the top sightseeing attractions to make the most of your trip. Go to The Peak for an uninterrupted view of the whole of Hong Kong. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions for a reason! If you are a party animal, head to Lan Kwai Fong which is popular for its nightlife and is home to over 90 pubs, clubs and restaurants. And no matter how old you are, don’t miss going to Disneyland.
2.Bhutan
This place is known as the land of happiness, and ranks the highest in terms of Gross National Happiness. You can take a short flight or directly hit road and enjoy the beauty en routes. After landing at Paro, head straight to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, which will take you about an hour. Visit Budhha Point for a majestic view of the valley. Next, head to Punakha which is about three hours away. En route, halt at the Dochula Pass where you get a glimpse of the Himalayan ranges. Admire the architectural marvels of the Punakha Dzong and Wangdue Phodrang and leave for Paro. End your trip with a trek to the Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
3. Nepal
The Embassy of Nepal allows Indians to enter with either their passport or any photo identity card issued by the government. You can even drive your way to Nepal.Nepal has several sightseeing attractions for the discerning tourist. The Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of Bagmati River is a sacred temple for Hindus. Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a plaza where you can soak in the art, history and culture of Nepal and the Bhaktapur Kingdom. For adventure seekers, there is the Annapurna Circuit that takes about 15-20 days and is one of the best treks in the world. October-November is the best time to complete this circuit. Surely Nepal is a holiday destination you shouldn’t miss.
4. Jordan
The Arab nation is home to a number of ancient monuments and ruins but that’s not all. Jordan also has the sun, sand and sea and nature reserves. While the archeological site of Petra is the first thing you’d want to see when in Jordan, don’t miss other attractions like the Dana Biosphere Reserve which is the largest one in the country. Montreal, a castle, is another archeological site steeped in history. Temple of Artemis, built at the highest point of the city of Jerash is another remarkable monument.
5. Mauritius
To truly discover the beauty of Mauritius on your vacation, make sure to see some of the best sights it has to offer. Not just beaches, the island nation is home rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails and ample wildlife. Visit the Black River Gorges National Park for a spectacular display of flora and fauna. Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano while La Preneuse is a beach in the Black River village. For a lesson in history about Mauritius’ colonial past, visit the Eureka House.
6. Maldives
The land of beaches, blue lagoons and coral reefs, no wonder Maldives is the ultimate Honeymoon destination. It provides free visa upon arrival and lets you stay for upto 30 days. The country boasts some of the best resorts in the world.
Maldives is a favorite vacation destination of the celebs too. While there is not much sightseeing to do in Maldives, the idea is to have a relaxing trip soaking in nature’s beauty. Most resorts here offer water sports activities like snorkeling, sailing, underwater diving and more. To enjoy to the fullest, stay in a water villa. Some of the top resorts in Maldives are Cocoa Island by COMO (+9606641818), Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas (+9606644111) and Jumeirah Vittaveli (+9606642020).
Maldives is a favorite vacation destination of the celebs too. While there is not much sightseeing to do in Maldives, the idea is to have a relaxing trip soaking in nature’s beauty. Most resorts here offer water sports activities like snorkeling, sailing, underwater diving and more. To enjoy to the fullest, stay in a water villa. Some of the top resorts in Maldives are Cocoa Island by COMO (+9606641818), Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas (+9606644111) and Jumeirah Vittaveli (+9606642020).
7. Bolivia
Bolivia grants a 30 day visa on arrival for Indian passport holders. Home to a part of the Amazon jungles, this country is home to 6 of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites.
While it is still an offbeat destination for Indians, the beautiful sights will leave you mesmerized. One of its most popular tourist attractions is the Witches’ Market where you will find yatiris (local witch doctors) wearing black hats selling potions, powders and amulets to enhance your beauty, luck and fertility. Used in Bolivian culture, these trinkets can be a good souvenir to take back home. Don’t miss a trip to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat.
8. Macau
One of the richest countries in the world, Macau has the Macau Tower, the ruins of St. Paul’s, the Senado Square and many more places to mesmerize you.
For party animals and shopaholics, Macau is a great destination to visit thanks to the number of casinos and malls it has. It is in fact termed the Las Vegas of Asia for this very reason. Nightlife of Macau glitters with lights along its Cotai Strip. The Venetian Macao is a Vegas-style, Venice-themed resort and casino where you can gamble away. For a lesson in Macau’s history, visit Museum of Macau which is on a hill in a 16th century fort.
For party animals and shopaholics, Macau is a great destination to visit thanks to the number of casinos and malls it has. It is in fact termed the Las Vegas of Asia for this very reason. Nightlife of Macau glitters with lights along its Cotai Strip. The Venetian Macao is a Vegas-style, Venice-themed resort and casino where you can gamble away. For a lesson in Macau’s history, visit Museum of Macau which is on a hill in a 16th century fort.
9. Cambodia
While the highlight of your Cambodia trip will undoubtedly be a visit to Angkor Wat, here’s what else you can see when here. Visit the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh to admire the splendid Khmer architecture and learn more about the king of Cambodia. Cambodian Cultural Village is a theme park and museum in Siem Reap that gives you a peak into the art, culture and history of the nation.
10. Haiti
This Caribbean country allows you to enter on a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. You can stay for as long as 3 months without a visa, following which you require to apply for one. The Citadelle de Ferriere is a mountain-top fortress here that you just don’t want to miss while here.
Not many Indians are familiar with this beautiful country and may have heard of it in 2010 when it suffered a massive earthquake. Even so, its prominent landmarks that date back to the nineteenth century are still intact. The Sans-Souci Palace is a sight to beacon for its marvelous architecture so is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. Art aficionados can visit the National Museum of Art and for nature lovers, there is Étang Saumâtre, the largest lake in Haiti.
11. British Virgin Islands
For up to a month, you can stay here with a visitor bona fide acquired at the port of entry. This place has sailing, water sports, museums, fishing, national parks- you name it!
These islands are a part of the volcanic archipelago in the Caribbean and are known for their beaches that are lined with reefs and offer yachting opportunities. Virgin Gorda is popular for its beaches and marinas and has several high street shops. You can also go sailing and snorkeling here. If surfing is what interests you, visit Josiah’s Bay which also has sugarcane plantations. Horseshoe Reef is the largest coral barrier reef in the Caribbean and is in Anegada Island.
These islands are a part of the volcanic archipelago in the Caribbean and are known for their beaches that are lined with reefs and offer yachting opportunities. Virgin Gorda is popular for its beaches and marinas and has several high street shops. You can also go sailing and snorkeling here. If surfing is what interests you, visit Josiah’s Bay which also has sugarcane plantations. Horseshoe Reef is the largest coral barrier reef in the Caribbean and is in Anegada Island.
12. Jamaica
The country that gave us Bob Marley and Reggae also happens to be full of cultural history. Relax on its serene beaches with your music, or go adventure sporting like Zip-lines, Jeep Safari, and a lot more!
The Caribbean island nation is home to rainforests, beaches, mountains and music. It is also known for its snorkeling and diving sites and its architecture that depicts British-colonial style. Hike to the Blue Mountains, play with dolphins at the Dolphin Cove Jamaica or go surfing at the Long Beach Bay. For a dose of Jamaican history, head to National Heroes Park or the National Art Gallery of Jamaica to soak in its art. Go rafting at Rio Grande River or chill with a drink at the James Bond Beach.
13.Fiji
A holiday full of sun, sand, beaches and over 300 islands, is all promised here without a visa! You will surely find your happiness here.
If you are in Fiji to make the most of your time, head to Denarau Island which is famous for its activities like snorkeling, golfing, shopping and its nightlife. Couple who are on their honeymoon can visit Mamanuca Islands and those who love wildlife can check out the Kula Eco Park. Nananu-i-Ra is popular for its safaris and kite surfing, while Fiji Museum takes you back in time with its collection of archeological artifacts that are over 3,000 years old.
13.Fiji
A holiday full of sun, sand, beaches and over 300 islands, is all promised here without a visa! You will surely find your happiness here.
If you are in Fiji to make the most of your time, head to Denarau Island which is famous for its activities like snorkeling, golfing, shopping and its nightlife. Couple who are on their honeymoon can visit Mamanuca Islands and those who love wildlife can check out the Kula Eco Park. Nananu-i-Ra is popular for its safaris and kite surfing, while Fiji Museum takes you back in time with its collection of archeological artifacts that are over 3,000 years old.
14. Vanuatu
This is the place to head to if adventure is your idea of a break. Made of roughly 80 islands, this place offers hiking trails, active volcanoes, deep sea fishing, kayaking and underwater caverns & wrecks too! Indians can arrive here without a visa and stay up to 30 days.
If you are into water sports, you should go scuba diving at Vanuatu where you will see natural beauty like coral reefs to underwater caverns and even World War II wreckage like troopship SS President Coolidge. Iririki Island is perfect for honeymooners for the privacy it offers along with its romantic views. Arore Island is another such island with water sports activities like snorkeling. Visit Mele Island for its waterfalls, gardens and cascades.
15. Saint Kitts and Nevis
If you are into water sports, you should go scuba diving at Vanuatu where you will see natural beauty like coral reefs to underwater caverns and even World War II wreckage like troopship SS President Coolidge. Iririki Island is perfect for honeymooners for the privacy it offers along with its romantic views. Arore Island is another such island with water sports activities like snorkeling. Visit Mele Island for its waterfalls, gardens and cascades.
15. Saint Kitts and Nevis
A 2-island country in the West Indies, it has tropical forests, mountains, sea side, and a population less than 50,000. As an Indian, all you need is a valid passport.
The country is known for its beaches, mountains and natural beauty. Saint Kitts is the bigger island and is home to a dormant volcano called Mount Liamuiga. It also has a crater lake, hiking trails and rainforests. Frigate Bay at Saint Kitts is another place that will charm you with its beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is also here. in Nevis, you can visit the Cottle Church and Museum of Nevis History.
The country is known for its beaches, mountains and natural beauty. Saint Kitts is the bigger island and is home to a dormant volcano called Mount Liamuiga. It also has a crater lake, hiking trails and rainforests. Frigate Bay at Saint Kitts is another place that will charm you with its beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is also here. in Nevis, you can visit the Cottle Church and Museum of Nevis History.
16. Saint Vincent and The Grenadines
Another Caribbean island, this is a cluster of 32 islands with coral reefs, lagoons, beaches and luxurious rooms at the islands. Indulge in yachting, scuba diving and staying in the best of places. Indians are provided a visitor’s permit on arrival, that is valid for a month.Many may not have heard about this nation and that’s what makes it even more special. You can be assured of a vacation where no one will disturb you and some sights that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Go to Bequia which is the second largest island here and offers several water sports activities to tourists. Botanic Gardens St Vincent are one of the oldest gardens in the tropics while Canouan is one of the smaller islands here.
17. Commonwealth of Dominica
You can arrive without a visa and stay upto 6 months! Called the Nature Isle of the Caribbean, this is a home to rare fauna and flora, rainforests, and Sisserou- a parrot only found here.
There is lots to do at Commonwealth of Dominica. Hot natural springs and tropical rainforests are some of them. Morne Trois Pitons National Park should definitely be on your list when here. It has the Boiling Lake, sulphur vents and Trafalgar Falls. Cabrits National Park is home to coral reefs and wetlands. To learn more about this place, visit the Dominica Museum in Roseau and for shopping, go to the Old Market of Roseau.
18. Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
18. Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
This is a 2 island country which welcomes Indians without a visa. Known for its colorful carnivals, this place has diverse flora and fauna and lets you stay for upto 3 months.
Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is near Venezuela and is steeped in Creole traditions which reflects on its cuisine as well. If you love birds, the island nation is home to Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve where you will find hummingbirds and Asa Wright Nature Centre where several bird species coexist. When here, do visit a secluded beach called Englishman’s Bay and Castara Bay which is only 308m in size. Emperor Valley Zoo and Yerette are other places of interest here.
19. Micronesia
Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is near Venezuela and is steeped in Creole traditions which reflects on its cuisine as well. If you love birds, the island nation is home to Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve where you will find hummingbirds and Asa Wright Nature Centre where several bird species coexist. When here, do visit a secluded beach called Englishman’s Bay and Castara Bay which is only 308m in size. Emperor Valley Zoo and Yerette are other places of interest here.
19. Micronesia
The Federated States of Micronesia is a country made up of 607 islands. Since it is remote, you can expect untouched natural beauty and stay for upto 30 days without a visa.
Spread across the western Pacific Ocean, Micronesia has four main island states. It is primarily known for its ancient ruins, beaches, sunken temples and lagoons. Nan Madol is a city in ruins on the Pohnpei Island. This was once a thriving city and the only one in the world to be built on coral reef. Leluh Ruins are another archeological site. Black Coral Island and Pakin Atoll are other places to visit when in Micronesia.
20. Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
The Federated States of Micronesia is a country made up of 607 islands. Since it is remote, you can expect untouched natural beauty and stay for upto 30 days without a visa.
Spread across the western Pacific Ocean, Micronesia has four main island states. It is primarily known for its ancient ruins, beaches, sunken temples and lagoons. Nan Madol is a city in ruins on the Pohnpei Island. This was once a thriving city and the only one in the world to be built on coral reef. Leluh Ruins are another archeological site. Black Coral Island and Pakin Atoll are other places to visit when in Micronesia.
20. Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
A vibrant nightlife, shopping areas, entertainment facilities and beaches is all TRNC has to offer you if you look forward to having a good time. You can also go cycling and birdwatching and stay up to 3 month with just a passport and a few supporting documents at the entry of port.When here, you can visit the several castles in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The Kyrenia Harbor and Castle is one of the most tourist-friendly area as it has bars, restaurants and a majestic view of the pier. However, the Beşparmak Mountains are also home to three other castles and offer breathtaking views of the coastline. The walled city of Nicosia is another gem here and shouldn’t be missed. From a 500-year-old Turkish bath to the magnificent Selimiye Mosque and the historical Bandabulya Bazaar, it is full of unique experiences.
21. Turks and Caicos Islands
A vibrant nightlife, shopping areas, entertainment facilities and beaches is all TRNC has to offer you if you look forward to having a good time. You can also go cycling and birdwatching and stay up to 3 month with just a passport and a few supporting documents at the entry of port.When here, you can visit the several castles in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The Kyrenia Harbor and Castle is one of the most tourist-friendly area as it has bars, restaurants and a majestic view of the pier. However, the Beşparmak Mountains are also home to three other castles and offer breathtaking views of the coastline. The walled city of Nicosia is another gem here and shouldn’t be missed. From a 500-year-old Turkish bath to the magnificent Selimiye Mosque and the historical Bandabulya Bazaar, it is full of unique experiences.
21. Turks and Caicos Islands
A group of 40 islands, this place boasts luxury resorts, beaches, shops and lets you go scuba diving too. The islands have a 14 mile long barrier reef for scuba diving sites and has an underwater wall too. Indians do not need a visa to enter these islands.These islands are at the tip of the Bahamas and have one of the world’s largest coral reef systems. Go island hoping to soak in the beauty of this nation and come back with a bag full of memories. Grace Bay, one of the cleanest and pristine beaches is one of the most popular tourist attraction. Dotted with hotels, it also has an underwater park which is great for snorkelers. Chalk Sound National Park is another place of interest which is home to iguanas and is a beautiful turquoise lagoon.
22. Cook Islands
A group of 40 islands, this place boasts luxury resorts, beaches, shops and lets you go scuba diving too. The islands have a 14 mile long barrier reef for scuba diving sites and has an underwater wall too. Indians do not need a visa to enter these islands.These islands are at the tip of the Bahamas and have one of the world’s largest coral reef systems. Go island hoping to soak in the beauty of this nation and come back with a bag full of memories. Grace Bay, one of the cleanest and pristine beaches is one of the most popular tourist attraction. Dotted with hotels, it also has an underwater park which is great for snorkelers. Chalk Sound National Park is another place of interest which is home to iguanas and is a beautiful turquoise lagoon.22. Cook Islands
This place lets you stay without a visa for 31 days, following which you are needed to apply for one. Its blue lagoons and reefs make it a perfect scuba diving destination. Their Avarua market has live performances as well.Aitutaki is the main tourist hotspot in Cook Islands and the blue lagoon here is its prime attraction. From fishing, snorkeling to swimming and kayaking, you can unleash the water baby in you at this island. Muri Beach is the perfect place to go to for a relaxing lunch by the walk followed by a romantic stroll on the soft sands in the evening. For a peek of the lush greenery of Cook Islands, go for the Cross Island Walk.
23. Kish Island
Ranked amongst the 10 most beautiful islands in the world, this is a shopper’s paradise with several centres and tourist destinations to look forward to.
The population of Kish Island is only 26,000 but the number of tourists who come here are so high that The New York Times included it in its list of 10 most beautiful islands in the world. Even though it is a small island, it offers tourists plenty of things to do. The beaches here have so clean waters that you can see fish swimming in them all the time. There is also an Underground City in Kish Island which is about 1,000 years old and is partly open to tourists.
24. Montserrat
The population of Kish Island is only 26,000 but the number of tourists who come here are so high that The New York Times included it in its list of 10 most beautiful islands in the world. Even though it is a small island, it offers tourists plenty of things to do. The beaches here have so clean waters that you can see fish swimming in them all the time. There is also an Underground City in Kish Island which is about 1,000 years old and is partly open to tourists.
24. Montserrat
When here, go for a Volcano adventure which shows the destruction of the Soufriere Hills that the volcano has caused here. Usually there is a helicopter and a boat ride ready for the tour.
The northern side of Montserrat is where tourism is flourishing. From hiking in the rainforests and spotting different species of birds to snorkeling and seeing coral reefs, you can discover the rich, natural beauty of Montserrat. Rendezvous Bay is famous for swimming and snorkeling and you get here by boat. Little Bay Beach is perfect to enjoy a scrumptious seafood lunch at one of its local restaurants. Sip spring water at Runaway Ghaut as legend says that those who do that are destined to return to Montserrat.
25. Pitcairn Islands
The northern side of Montserrat is where tourism is flourishing. From hiking in the rainforests and spotting different species of birds to snorkeling and seeing coral reefs, you can discover the rich, natural beauty of Montserrat. Rendezvous Bay is famous for swimming and snorkeling and you get here by boat. Little Bay Beach is perfect to enjoy a scrumptious seafood lunch at one of its local restaurants. Sip spring water at Runaway Ghaut as legend says that those who do that are destined to return to Montserrat.
25. Pitcairn Islands
A secluded, peaceful place with a population of barely 50, this place doesn’t require you to carry your visa for up to 14 days. This island hosta a lot of thrilling adventure activities besides being home to thriving, untouched nature.
There are four main islands at Pitcairn Islands of which Henderson Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Oeno Island is untouched by development and you can camp here and explore its natural beauty. Take an eco trail to Sailor’s Hide and Christian’s Cave and discover rock formations and flora of these islands. You can also hike to Down Rope albeit with a local guide and see the only sandy beach in Pitcairn Islands.
There are four main islands at Pitcairn Islands of which Henderson Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Oeno Island is untouched by development and you can camp here and explore its natural beauty. Take an eco trail to Sailor’s Hide and Christian’s Cave and discover rock formations and flora of these islands. You can also hike to Down Rope albeit with a local guide and see the only sandy beach in Pitcairn Islands.
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