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The great Indian getaway: New travel trends for 2025

Indian travelers are demonstrating an unprecedented enthusiasm for international journeys, as evidenced by a 68% surge in tourist visa applications for summer 2025 compared to the previous year.
Indian travelers are embracing a new era of global exploration, with rising interest in diverse destinations, shorter trips, and experience-driven journeys—fueled by a surge in visa applications and a growing trend among Gen Z to make travel a lifestyle, not just a luxury. Photo: shankar s., Flickr CC BY 2.0
Indian travelers are embracing a new era of global exploration, with rising interest in diverse destinations, shorter trips, and experience-driven journeys—fueled by a surge in visa applications and a growing trend among Gen Z to make travel a lifestyle, not just a luxury. Photo: shankar s., Flickr CC BY 2.0

This substantial increase underscores a shift in perception, with international travel evolving from a luxury to a lifestyle priority among Indians. This is according to The Times of India.


Preferred destinations

The latest data from visa processing platform Atlys highlights that Schengen countries, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are among the most sought-after destinations for Indian travelers planning their summer 2025 vacations. This trend aligns with the growing interest in diverse cultural experiences and the appeal of destinations offering streamlined visa processes. Azerbaijan and Bali have emerged as hotspots for Indian tourists. Azerbaijan's unique blend of Eastern European and Western Asian cultures, particularly in its capital city Baku, has captivated travelers. Bali continues to allure with its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.


This infographic highlights the top 10 most visited countries by Indian travelers in 2023–2024, with the UAE, USA, and Thailand leading the list. The data reflects growing demand for both short-haul getaways and long-haul family or business trips, marking a diverse shift in India’s outbound travel trends. Credit: Chat GPT
This infographic highlights the top 10 most visited countries by Indian travelers in 2023–2024, with the UAE, USA, and Thailand leading the list. The data reflects growing demand for both short-haul getaways and long-haul family or business trips, marking a diverse shift in India’s outbound travel trends. Credit: Chat GPT
Seeking diverse cultural experiences

Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys, remarked they are seeing a surge not only in the number of applications but also in the diversity of destinations Indians are curious about.

–This uptick reflects a collective desire to explore cultures, try new experiences, and make the most of their vacation time.

Additionally, an Atlys spokesperson noted that they witnessing a remarkable transformation in travel patterns.

–The surge isn't just about numbers—it's about Indians actively seeking diverse cultural experiences and making international travel an integral part of their lives.


Emerging trends

A notable trend is the rise of Generation Z travelers leading this travel renaissance. They show a preference for experience-focused journeys and shorter stays, with destinations like Indonesia, Egypt, and Japan ranking as top choices for immersive cultural experiences.

Generation Z travelers are people born roughly between 1997 and 2012 who are now in their teens to late 20s. They are the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age, and their approach to travel reflects that background.


Furthermore, there's an increasing inclination towards multi-country European trips facilitated by Schengen visas. Travelers are strategically planning itineraries that encompass multiple destinations such as France, Spain, and Italy, optimizing their travel budgets and experiences.


Visa facilitation and accessibility

The appeal of destinations with simplified visa procedures is evident among first-time international travelers. Countries offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access, including Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan, have become increasingly popular. These nations provide accessible entry requirements coupled with rich cultural offerings, making them attractive options for those new to international travel.


This surge in outbound travel reflects a broader transformation in the aspirations and behaviors of Indian travelers, emphasizing a growing desire to explore and engage with the global community.


Among the top-ranked in the region

The Indian passport is moderately strong compared to other Asian countries—but not among the top-ranked in the region. It offers access to a fair number of countries without requiring a visa, but still trails behind several of its Asian neighbors.


As of 2025 (Henley Passport Index and other sources)
Indian passport

  • Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access: 62 countries

  • Global ranking: Around 80th

  • Notable visa-free countries: Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, Seychelles, Maldives, and some Caribbean and African nations

Comparison with other Asian countries

  1. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Shopping, short flights, family visits

  2. United States – Tourism, education, business

  3. Thailand – Budget-friendly, beaches, nightlife

  4. Saudi Arabia – Religious tourism (Hajj/Umrah)

  5. Singapore – Clean, modern, family-oriented

  6. Malaysia – Affordable, multicultural, easy access

  7. Qatar – New stopover destination

  8. United Kingdom – Family ties, heritage, education

  9. Canada – Family visits, students, work visas

  10. Sri Lanka – Proximity, nature, now visa-free


  • The Indian passport is stronger than many South Asian neighbors like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

  • It is weaker than East and Southeast Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.

  • Indian travelers still often require visas for Europe, the US, and many developed countries, but demand for visa reforms and better bilateral agreements is growing.


Where Indians can travel without a visa in 2025

Indian travelers are exploring the world more than ever in 2025—and the good news is, there are many countries that welcome Indian passport holders with visa-free, visa-on-arrival, or e-visa options. Here's a helpful guide to where Indians can travel easily this year.

Visa-free countries for Indian passport holders

These countries allow Indians to enter without a visa for tourism, making travel simple and fast:

  • Bhutan

  • Nepal

  • Indonesia (up to 30 days)

  • Maldives (30 days)

  • Barbados (90 days)

  • Fiji (120 days)

  • Jamaica

  • Trinidad & Tobago

  • Vanuatu

  • El Salvador

  • Senegal

  • Serbia (check length of stay allowed)

  • Tunisia

Countries offering visa on arrival for Indians

Indian passport holders can get a visa on arrival in these destinations—often just by paying a fee and filling a form at the airport:

  • Thailand (30 days, with conditions)

  • Laos (30 days)

  • Cambodia (30 days)

  • Jordan

  • Mauritius (60 days)

  • Seychelles (visitor permit on arrival)

  • Tanzania

  • Bolivia

  • Rwanda

  • Madagascar

  • Zimbabwe


Countries that offer e-visas to Indian travelers

Many countries now provide easy online e-visas—no need to visit an embassy. Apply in advance, get approval, and travel:

  • Turkey

  • Azerbaijan

  • Kenya

  • Uzbekistan

  • Vietnam

  • Georgia

  • Russia

  • Zambia

  • Oman

  • Myanmar


Travel tips for Indian citizens

  • Plan ahead Even visa-free or VOA countries may ask for return tickets, hotel bookings, and proof of funds.

  • Use smart apps like Atlys or iVisa for real-time updates and applications.

  • Carry travel insurance, especially in countries that require it on entry.


With over 60 destinations offering relaxed entry for Indians, 2025 is the perfect time to plan your dream trip. Whether it’s the beaches of Bali, the mountains of Georgia, or the safaris of Kenya—your Indian passport can take you there.


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