Make the most of the holiday season with a trip to these countries that offer a hassle-free visa experience for Indian passport holders

International travel has always been a pain point for Indians especially in the planning stage. More often than not, countries high on your wishlist get knocked off because getting a visa is inconvenient, stressful, and difficult to secure in time. Europe, which has always been a top destination, requires a Schengen visa, which in turn demands an incredible amount of documentation from Indian travellers with a high risk of rejection. The United States offers a visa valid for a glorious 10 years but trying to get an appointment without waiting over a year is next to impossible.

So, if you want to make the most of the upcoming festive season or plan spur-of-the-moment trips — which on our passport seems like a luxury — where can you go beyond our beloved Thailand and Nepal?

Here are a few countries that have made travel easier for Indians. While they’re not all visa-free destinations — most require an e-visa or an easy visa on arrival — the process is smooth, painless, and more importantly swift.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has seen a boom in tourism becoming a trendy and trending travel destination in the last few years. Indian travellers have discovered this Eurasian gem — more so post pandemic — and have been flocking to the capital city of Baku and then wandering further into the country to explore its beautiful landscape. Even if all you have time for is a quick quick 3- or 4-day getaway, the capital city offers much excitement with experiences like visiting volcanoes and ancient rock formations with petroglyphs, lots of shopping, fun cafes and restaurants, all making you feel like you’re visiting a European country instead of an Asian one.

Kazakhstan

Eurasian countries have started gaining popularity in recent years, and one of the most underrated destinations is Kazakhstan. You can immerse yourself in Kazakh culture in the capital city Almaty by visiting the busy Green market, exploring Zenkov Cathedral and the central mosque. Visitors who like winter sports shouldn’t miss Shymbulak, known for its ski slopes. Stop by Shymkent, the ancient crossroads of the Silk Route to indulge in some of the best Kazakh food in the country. The natural landscape in the country is stunning and it’s visa-free for Indian travellers. We suggest you make the most of it before it becomes the next tourist hotspot.

Australia

It might seem unthinkable, as most travellers equate Australia with lengthy and strict visa processes, but the truth is that Australia now has an e-visa for Indians, and a fuss free one at that. Australia is a stunning destination offering a wide range of activities and experiences for every kind of traveller. It’s foodie central for those that are looking for cuisine-based travel and immensely popular thanks to TV shows like Masterchef Australia, but also offers fun adventures and plenty of action if you’re a water baby. Experiences in Australia can range from luxury to adventure. Think a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, holding a Koala and visiting Kangaroos, dining at top hatted restaurants in major Australian cities (their equivalent to the Michelin Star) or exquisite wine tastings in the Yarra Valley. It’s all possible with a simple e-visa.

Kenya

African adventures are unlike any other. The Maasai Mara is truly one of God’s best creations and with the ease of a visa on arrival minus any grinding paperwork Indian travellers can fly to Kenya hassle free to experience the beauty.

Fly into Nairobi and spend a couple of days visiting an elephant sanctuary, feed the giraffes and visit local traditional markets. Meat lovers can dine at the city’s famous restaurant, The Carnivore, before heading out to the Maasai Mara or other national parks for an epic safari adventure of a lifetime. Most travellers associate Kenya with just wildlife but the north is home to beautiful beach towns like Watamu ideal for a couple of days of swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the beach after your safari adventures. While Indian passport holders have a visa on arrival, Indian travellers will need to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA) up to 72 hours before travel.

Mauritius

The perfect island getaway with pristine beaches that can rival any island country. Mauritius is more than just its white sandy beaches, it offers travellers a complete holiday experience especially if you’re travelling with families. You can snorkel, dive, go dolphin and whale watching, go hiking or visit botanical gardens or even an underwater submarine tour. You can also visit historical sites that have an Indian connection for an experience beyond the beach life. Experience the Creole Mauritian lifestyle with an easy, fuss-free, visa on arrival when you land.

Jordan

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ancient wonders in Petra. Sleep under the stars in the Wadi Rum desert. Indulge in traditional Jordanian cuisine and float about in the Dead Sea — the only sea you can’t actually swim in. Jordan has plenty to offer and experiences that are steeped in history. What makes the travel to the Kingdom of Jordan so convenient is that it is visa-free for Indians. Book your flights, plan your itinerary and experience the magic.