Everyone deserves a break from their daily routine to spend time with their family, friends, and themselves. During the festive season, a cosy, beautiful, and enjoyable vacation is all you need. In India, people tend to enjoy a hassle-free travel experience outside India, which means visa-free countries. Here are some beautiful countries that you can visit with your loved ones during the long Diwali weekend, and the best part is that they are all visa-free.
10 Visa-Free Countries You Can Visit During Your Diwali Long Weekend
1. Bhutan
One of the nearest visa-free countries to India is Bhutan. Bhutan is a country amidst the peaceful atmosphere of the Himalayas. It is a Buddhist kingdom that is popularly known for its monasteries, fortresses, and scenic landscapes. You will also find a lot of things to explore in Bhutan, from magnificent Dzongs to architecture. Bhutan’s wildlife is renowned for its diverse range, including the golden langur.
Visa: Free
Top Attractions:
- Enjoy delicious Bhutanese cuisine and interact with locals.
- Take a 3-km cliffside hike to Paro Taktsang.
- Explore historical sites like Punakha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, Dochula Pass, and many more.
- Visit various valleys like Hao Valley and Phobjikha Valley and also explore various temples like Chimi Lhakhang Temple and Changangkha Lhakhang.
2. Fiji
Fiji, officially called the Republic of Fiji, is an island country in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean. It’s like an island chain with more than 330 islands, out of which 110 are permanently inhabited. However, the interesting thing about Fiji is that it was formed by volcanic activity starting around 150 million years ago. Fiji is abundant in minerals, fish resources, and forests.
Visa: Free up to 120 days
Top Attractions:
- Explore beautiful Fiji island chains like the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.
- Experience natural hot springs and mud pools, which are believed to have therapeutic properties.
- Visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, which is known as the largest botanical garden of Orchids in Fiji.
- Explore the Fijian village called Navala Village, one of the few villages in the country that still maintains a traditional lifestyle.
- Sawa-i-Lau, a limestone cave located on Yasawas island, is a must-visit destination accessible by boat.
3. Maldives
The Maldives, also known as the Republic of the Maldives, is a South Asian country. You can spot the Maldives on the southwest side of Sri Lanka and India. It is one of the smallest Asian countries and the world’s most geographically dispersed sovereign states as well. The culture of the Maldives is influenced by different people coming from different ethnicities.
Visa: Free visa on arrival for 30 days
Top Attractions:
- The most famous thing you can do in the Maldives is to stay at the water villas.
- Have a chill and relaxing time at magnificent beaches.
- Enjoy fascinating water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling.
- Explore the beautiful ocean and also swim with whale sharks and manta rays.
4. Mauritius
Mauritius is the Indian Ocean’s tropical paradise island with beautiful coral reefs, beaches, rainforests, and mountains. From dolphins to rich culture to hiking, there is a lot to explore. Also, Mauritius is a country with a rich blend of Indian, African, and European cuisine, music, and traditions. Out of so many visa-free countries, Mauritius possesses a distinctive beauty, charm, and diversity.
Visa: Free up to 90-days
Top Attractions:
- Take a dive and explore marine life and coral reefs on the West Coast.
- Have a fun hiking experience at the Black River Gorges while enjoying a scenic view and waterfalls.
- Explore untouched wilderness on Île aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve with rare animals and plants.
- Taste delicious Mauritian Creole cooking and try street food.
- Take a walk through the sugarcane fields on the mainland.
Also Read: These Countries Are Most Likely To Grant Schengen Visa To Indians
5. Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for travellers as it’s one of the visa-free countries. Its destination can captivate you as it offers a great blend of culture, adventure, and especially nature. Explore anything and everything in Thailand, including temples, nightlife, streets, food, and history. Thailand has something to offer everyone and has an interesting history to explore. Thailand also has the power to enchant you with its wonders.
Visa: Free till November 11, 2024
Top Attractions:
- Visit the vibrant city of Bangkok and explore huge, shiny, and beautiful temples and monasteries.
- Try authentic street food and also relax at glorious Thailand beaches and islands.
- Explore so many different types of water sports, like snorkelling, kayaking, and even swimming around.
- Learn about its history by visiting the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kew temple, and also Thailand’s rural charm.
- Explore the wildlife and interact with elephants.
6. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation in South Asia that was historically known as Ceylon. It’s a developing country with its history spanning over 3,000 years. Sri Lanka is a small country, surrounded by natural beauty like mountains, jungles, and sandy beaches, and its abundance of wildlife will captivate its visitors. However, it has a lot to offer, from remarkable train rides to fine dining and whatnot.
Visa: Free up to 6-months
Top Attractions:
- Watch a beautiful sunrise over Little Adam’s Peak.
- Go for a bird-watching trip at Bundala National Park.
- Ascend Pidurangala to witness a sunrise over the jungle.
- Camp in the misty mountains of Haputale.
- Take a train to Colombi for mountain views, tea gardens, and British colonial-era railway stations.
7. Tunisa
One of the unique visa-free countries is Tunisia, a northernmost African country that blends modern culture and ancient history in a scenic landscape. You will find plenty of heritage and charm in Tunisia, with lots of natural beauty from beaches to dunes. Tunisia is a destination that will leave you in awe and surprise you with its diversity and richness.
Visa: Free for 3-months
Top Attractions:
- Visit La Medina, which is known for narrow maze-like streets, and do some boutique shopping.
- Visit one of the most beautiful Tunisian places called Sidi Bou Said, which is also known for blue and white houses and cobblestoned streets.
- Know the culture and history of Tunisia by visiting the Bardo National Museum.
- Drink the famous Tunisian coffee offered by thousands of cafes there.
- Take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
8. Qatar
Qatar is a small desert country with high tourism value. It has a number of must-see, mind-blowing places to see filled with beauty and diversity. It also offers a mix of everything from ancient history to modern-day essentials to adventure. Qatar also has beautiful Arabic art, making it a must-go destination for a vacation.
Visa: On arrival up to 30 days
Top Attractions:
- Visit one of the oldest markets in the city of Doha called Souq Waqif, which offers spices, clothing, and textiles.
- Katara Cultural Village is a must-visit Greek-style amphitheatre for entertainment and culture.
- Explore the museum of Islamic arts for rich and religious Qatari history.
- Visit the Villaggio Mall, which gives a different shopping experience as it features a long indoor canal.
9. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is Africa’s natural wonder. From wildlife to forests to cultural heritage, Zimbabwe is a place deeply rooted in a powerful civilisation. Zimbabwe offers a very beautiful collection of attractions for travellers and an escape to an adventurous yet relaxing place.
Visa: On arrival for 30-days
Top Attractions:
- Exciting dinner cruise on the Zambezi River, enjoying a closer look at iconic Victoria Falls.
- Victoria Falls offers a scenic day tour from the ground or by helicopter.
- Visit the Chobe National Park to see Zimbabwe’s wildlife and enjoy safari activities.
- Visit the Devil’s Pool for a dip.
- Go camping at the National Park.
10. Seychelles
One of the visa-free countries is the Seychelles, an island republic in the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles has only 115 islands. It is known for its lush tropical vegetation, beautiful marine life, and wide beaches. However, each island in this region has its own unique identity, attractions, and beaches, yet all share a perfect, peaceful environment.
Visa: Free
Top Attractions:
- Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden is in the high hills above Anse Royal. You will enjoy the sight and vibe of the Seychelles in the garden.
- Visit the Baie Ternay Marine National Park, which is known as a hub for snorkelers and scuba divers.
- There are various options available for island tours.
Also Read: 8 Smallest Countries In The World By Area
So, which of these visa-free countries are you travelling to this Diwali?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro
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