5 easiest countries for Indians to visit 2026 visa rules and costs

For the Indian traveler, the concept of going abroad may carry with it one big problem: the process of obtaining a visa. While this may be a tedious process involving lengthy forms, appointments at the embassy, financial checks, and approvals, some nations have opted to make things easy for the visiting Indians. In fact, many nations, especially those in South and Southeast Asia, have eased entry procedures for Indians. This includes nations where Indians can enter without any visas, others where visas are available on arrival, and some where visas can be procured within a day or two.

Visa Status (2026): No visa required
Visa Cost: INR 0
Nepal is, without any doubt, one of the easiest international destinations for Indian citizens to visit. Due to cordial diplomatic ties for many years, Indian citizens can enter and roam freely without any visa. It is almost like traveling within your country! You can even enter Nepal with any government-issued ID (though carrying your passport is recommended but not mandatory in many situations while traveling by air and land). Just take a short flight from India and experience the beauty of the Himalayas, spiritual destinations like Kathmandu and Pashupatinath, and adventure destinations like Pokhara.

Visa status (2026): Visa-free entry for Indians
Visa cost: INR 0 (under the existing Visa-Free scheme)
One of the most accessible international destinations for Indians is Thailand, and this has become possible with the introduction and subsequent extension of its Visa-Free entry regime for Indians. As of 2026, Indians can travel to Thailand for short-term purposes without requiring any visa in advance. However, Indian tourists need to ensure that they carry all required documents such as valid passports, return tickets, accommodation, and sufficient funds (10,000 THB per person).
One of the major advantages of Thailand as a tourist destination is that it is one of the most easily accessible international tourist spots for Indians.

Visa Status (2026): Visa on Arrival (for up to 30 days, extendable)
Visa Cost: INR 0 (Free Visa on Arrival)
One of the few luxury tourist spots in the world is the Maldives, which is open to Indian tourists without any hassles. The visa is available on arrival at Malé International Airport. The procedure is simple, although the tourist has to ensure they carry documentation such as hotel reservations, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds (USD 100 + USD 50 for each day). The immigration procedures are smooth.

Visa Status (2026): Visa on Arrival (Valid for 30 Days, extendable once)
Visa Cost: IDR 500,000 (Approx. INR 2,600 – INR 2,800)
Indonesia, especially Bali, continues to be one of the favourite destinations for Indian tourists due to the ease and simplicity of the ‘Visa on Arrival’ process. While this destination is not ‘Visa-Free,’ it is not too complicated either, and tourists can easily get this ‘Visa on Arrival.’ All they will be required to carry is a valid passport for at least six months, a return ticket, and the payment for the ‘Visa on Arrival.’ The ‘Visa on Arrival’ can also be extended once for 30 days. Indonesia offers a broad range of experiences for tourists, including temples and beach clubs in Bali, rice fields and volcanic environments in Ubud, etc.

Visa Status in 2026: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to be obtained before arrival.
Visa Cost: USD 20 - USD 50 (INR 1600 - INR 4200 approximately,
Sri Lanka has one of the fastest and most efficient electronic visa processes for Indian travelers. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) can be applied online and is processed within 24 to 48 hours. In some situations, it can be done even sooner. The information that is required for the visa is basic and includes passport information and accommodation and arrival dates. Once processed, the ETA is electronically attached to your passport. Sri Lanka is located near India and is best for short trips. It has a lot to offer in terms of heritage sites, scenic train rides, beaches, and wildlife.