Planning a summer holiday can be exciting and overwhelming, especially when considering international travel with family. A significant factor in choosing a destination is the ease of obtaining a visa.
Fortunately, numerous countries offer Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) for Indian citizens, making travel planning simpler and more convenient. This article explores ten such countries, providing detailed information on what to expect, activities to enjoy, and an estimated budget for each destination.
What is a Visa-on-Arrival?
A Visa-on-Arrival is a visa that travellers can obtain upon entering their destination country rather than having to apply for it in advance. This process typically involves filling out a form, providing necessary documentation, and paying a fee at the airport or border entry point. Moreover, VOAs simplify travel plans and allow for more spontaneous trips.
Many countries let you get a visa when you arrive or apply for one online before your trip. According to the Henley Passport Index from March 2024, Indians can get a Visa-on-Arrival or travel without a visa to 62 countries.
How Many Countries Provide Visas on Arrival for Indian Citizens?
There are several Visa-on-Arrival countries for Indians, allowing them to explore diverse cultures and landscapes without extensive pre-travel paperwork. Here, we highlight ten such countries perfect for summer holidays:
1. Thailand
Thailand has long been a popular destination for Indian travellers due to its pleasant year-round weather, scenic landscapes, temples, palaces, and beaches. It offers something for everyone with a blend of modern cities and serene countryside.
Things to Do: Visit the palaces, enjoy beaches, experience the floating markets, enjoy water sports, and explore the ancient city.
Places to Visit: Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Thailand:
Day 1-2: Explore Bangkok’s cultural sites and markets.
Day 3-4: Relax on the beaches of Phuket and Pattaya.
Day 5-6: Visit Chiang Mai’s temples and nature parks.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹47,640 per person
Visa Fee: THB 2,000
2. Maldives
The Maldives, an island nation, is a beautiful destination for travellers seeking underwater adventure. Relaxing beaches, exciting water sports, and spectacular sunsets await your arrival in this tropical paradise.
Things to Do: Snorkelling and diving to explore coral reefs. Relax at luxurious beachfront resorts. Enjoy water sports such as kayaking and windsurfing.
Places to Visit: Male and Hulhumale.
Itinerary: A 5-day itinerary for the Maldives:
Day 1: Explore Male and its attractions.
Day 2-4: Relax and enjoy activities at a resort.
Day 5: Day trip to nearby islands.
Estimated Cost Per Person: Between ₹45,000 to ₹2,49,000 per person
Visa Fee: Free
3. Indonesia
Indonesia, particularly Bali, is famous for its beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. It’s a great destination for families looking to mix relaxation with adventure. It offers diverse experiences, from vibrant city life in Jakarta to serene beaches in Bali.
Things to Do: Surf and sunbathe on beaches, visit temples, and explore the monkey forest.
Places to Visit: Bali, Jakarta and Yogyakarta.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Indonesia
Day 1-2: Enjoy Bali’s beaches and temples.
Day 3-4: Explore Ubud’s cultural sites.
Day 5-6: Visit Jakarta’s attractions.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹76,820
Visa Fee: IDR 500,000
4. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a popular travel destination for Indians. Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, this island nation boasts numerous beautiful beaches, exquisite cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage, ideal for enjoying with friends or family.
Things to Do: Wildlife safaris, visit ancient cities and relax on the beaches.
Places to Visit: Colombo, Kandy and Galle.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for the Maldives:
Day 1-2: Explore Colombo and Kandy.
Day 3-4: Visit ancient ruins and wildlife parks.
Day 5-6: Relax on the southern beaches.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹52,679 per person
Visa Fee: Free
5. Vietnam
With its distinct culture, cuisine, and mesmerising landscapes, Vietnam is an excellent addition to your travel itinerary. It offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and bustling cities, making it a diverse destination for families.
Things to Do: Enjoy cruise rides, explore tunnels, ancient temples and pagodas.
Places to Visit: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Vietnam:
Day 1-2: Discover Hanoi’s historical sites.
Day 3-4: Cruise Halong Bay.
Day 5-6: Explore Ho Chi Minh City.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹58,985
Visa Fee: US$ 25
6. Myanmar
Myanmar, a small country in the western part of Southeast Asia, is renowned for its temples and diverse culture, which are seamlessly integrated into its natural landscape. The colonial architecture bathed in warm sunlight invites tourists from around the world year-round.
Things to Do: Visit pagodas, explore ancient cities and enjoy the cruise ride.
Places to Visit: Yangon, Bagan and Mandalay.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Myanmar:
Day 1-2: Explore Yangon’s cultural sites.
Day 3-4: Visit Bagan’s temples.
Day 5-6: Discover Mandalay.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹54,999 per person
Visa Fee: US$ 50
7. Jordan
Jordan, situated near the Red and Dead Seas, also offers Indians a Visa-on-Arrival. The country's natural attractions provide an opportunity to pause and explore its impressive historical heritage.
Things to Do: Red Sea diving & snorkelling, exploring ancient cities and visiting Roman ruins.
Places to Visit: Petra, Amman and Wadi Rum.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Myanmar:
Day 1-2: Discover Amman’s historical sites.
Day 3-4: Explore Petra.
Day 5-6: Experience Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹70,000 per person
Visa Fee: US$ 97
8. Iran
Iran boasts a rich cultural history in arts, literature, poetry, cuisine, and architecture, offering captivating attractions. The country holds great potential, and visiting its cities is truly worthwhile.
Things to Do: Visit historical cities and ancient ruins and explore museums and bazaars.
Places to Visit: Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Iran:
Day 1-2: Explore Tehran’s cultural sites.
Day 3-4: Visit Isfahan’s historical landmarks.
Day 5-6: Discover Shiraz and Persepolis.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹27,00 to ₹43,000 per person
Visa Fee: US$108
9. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is known for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and the magnificent Victoria Falls, making it a great destination for families. It offers a range of activities for people who love adventure.
Things to Do: Visit the world’s largest waterfalls, enjoy a safari and explore the Great Zimbabwe ruins.
Places to Visit: Victoria Falls, Great Zimbabwe and Hwange National Park.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Zimbabwe:
Day 1-2: Experience Victoria Falls.
Day 3-4: Safari in Hwange National Park.
Day 5-6: Explore Great Zimbabwe.
Estimated Cost Per Person: ₹1,71,366 per person
Visa Fee: US$ 30
10. Ethiopia
With its rich history and diverse landscapes, Ethiopia offers a unique travel experience. From ancient ruins to stunning natural beauty, it's a destination worth exploring.
Things to Do: Visit churches and explore national parks and ancient cities.
Places to Visit: Addis Ababa, Lalibela and Aksum.
Itinerary: A 6-day itinerary for Bahrain:
Day 1-2: Explore Addis Ababa.
Day 3-4: Visit Lalibela’s churches.
Day 5-6: Discover Aksum’s historical sites.
Person: ₹44,075 per person
Visa Fee: ₹7,050
Things to Have When Travelling Abroad
When travelling abroad, especially with family, it is essential to be well-prepared. Here are some important items to pack:
Passport: Your passport is your primary identification document abroad. Keep it safe and carry copies for added security.
Visa: Always check the visa requirements for your destination and ensure you have the documentation to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Travel Insurance: Overseas Travel insurance covers costs and losses related to travel, protecting you from medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events.
Clothing: Pack appropriate clothing based on the climate of your destination and planned activities. Include a mix of casual and formal wear.
Universal Travel Adapters: A universal travel adaptor is crucial for charging devices in different countries with varying plug types.
Debit or Credit Cards: Ensure you carry a debit or credit card for easy transactions and emergencies. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid card blocking.
Medicines: Carry essential drugs along with a prescription. This is crucial for managing health conditions while travelling.
Toiletries: Basic toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and personal hygiene items should be packed to maintain your daily routine.
Travelling to a new country with a Visa-on-Arrival simplifies the travel process, allowing more time to enjoy the journey. These ten countries offer families a wide range of experiences, from historical explorations and cultural immersion to natural beauty and adventure. As you plan your summer holiday, ensure you have all the necessary travel items and documentation to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
