Sri Lanka approves visa-free travel for India: Here’s a list of other stunning visa-free destinations for Indians

Sri Lanka has introduced a visa-free entry initiative for visitors from India and six other nations, namely China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. This development paves the way for seamless travel between these neighboring countries. While this is a significant update, it’s worthwhile to consider the broader landscape of visa-free travel options available to Indian citizens globally.

When planning international travel, the first consideration often revolves around obtaining a visa. However, there exist several countries where Indian citizens do not require a visa, and a few others where they can obtain one upon arrival. As per the 2023 Passport Index by Henley and Partners, Indian passport holders can visit 57 countries without needing a visa. Additionally, Indian citizens can also explore countries on the list below by obtaining an e-visa or entry authorization.

Here are the top 10 most exotic visa-free countries for Indian citizens with a valid passport to consider for their next international vacation:

1. Barbados: Known as the ‘Gem of the Caribbean,’ Barbados is famed for its exquisite beaches. Rockley Beach, in particular, stands out as the most picturesque. This expansive stretch of sand offers a serene atmosphere for soaking up the sun. To gain entry to Barbados, securing a visa on arrival requires prior confirmation.
2. Dominica: A Caribbean nation characterized by its mountainous terrain, boasts a warm, tropical climate. Booking flights from India to Dominica grants access to this stunning country. Indian nationals visiting Dominica for business or leisure purposes, up to six months, are exempt from visa requirements.
3. Haiti: Sharing borders with the Dominican Republic, this Caribbean nation allows Indian passport holders to enter and stay for up to 90 days without needing a visa.
4. Mauritius: Positioned in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is renowned for its ivory-white beaches, alluring lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. Indian passport holders can revel in Mauritius for a maximum of 90 days without necessitating a visa.
5. Nepal: Revered worldwide, Nepal captivates with its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and numerous mountaineering spots. While Indian citizens can enter Nepal without a visa, other nationalities require a visa valid for six months from the date of issue.
6. Maldives: The Maldives, a South Asian nation, offers a haven for basking under the sun, relishing balmy weather, and indulging in luxury resorts. Indian passport holders, visiting for tourism within a 90-day period, do not require a visa.
7. Bhutan: Given its proximity to India, entering Bhutan is relatively uncomplicated. Remarkably, Indian citizens do not need a visa to access Bhutan from India. A valid passport or equivalent identification suffices, especially for stays of seven days or less.
8. Hong Kong: As one of China’s most renowned regions, Hong Kong presents a fusion of natural splendor and architectural marvels. Indian passport holders do not need an Indian visa for a visit, with a maximum stay of 14 days.
9. Seychelles: An archipelago of 115 islands off the East African coast in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a prime destination for eco-conscious travel. It is a visa-free nation; however, a permit is necessary upon arrival from the Seychelles Immigration Department, valid for 30 days.
10. Cook Islands: A picturesque island nation in the Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands are a part of New Zealand, boasting delightful weather, enchanting beaches, and a warm, welcoming culture. A visa is not mandated for stays up to 30 days, provided that the passport is valid for at least six months beyond the departure date and has a blank visa page.

Numerous other countries extend visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges to Indian travelers. This includes destinations like Bolivia, British Virgin Islands, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoros, Djibouti, El Salvador, Fiji, Gabon, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macao (SAR China), Madagascar, and numerous others.

While the visa itself may be complimentary, it is crucial to thoroughly review the guidelines and prerequisites for your journey, including the allotted duration of your visa-free stay, prior to finalizing your travel arrangements. Being well-informed about specific regulations is essential for any traveler.

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