Long vacations are not always available. Sometimes, only 3-4 days of vacation are available, but that is enough for a short international trip. Luckily for Indians, there are a few countries, very close by, where visa-free entry or easy visa facilities are available. If you want to taste the mountains, sea, food and culture, these countries are perfect for a weekend trip.
1. Sri Lanka Tea and the Islands of the Sea
You can reach Sri Lanka in a two and a half hour flight from India. Starting from the urban life of Colombo to a safari in Yala National Park or tea gardens in the hill country, everything can be explored in 3-4 days. Indian travelers can easily enter by getting an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online.
2. Bhutan The Kingdom of Happiness
Bhutan is completely different for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, mountainous natural beauty and traditional monasteries. Be it Paro Taksang or Thimphu Bazaar, the travel experience is always special. No visa is required for Indians here, just an entry permit is enough.
3. Maldives The address of sea and sun
For those who love the sea, Maldives is the ultimate weekend destination. You can reach it by direct flight from Delhi, Mumbai or Kochi in 2-3 hours. You can get a 30-day on-arrival visa on arrival. All you need is a return ticket and hotel booking.
4. Thailand Parties, food and beaches/
Be it the crowded streets of Bangkok, the beaches of Phuket or the temples of Chiang Mai, Thailand has endless diversity. The best news is that from 2025, Indians will be able to stay here for up to 60 days without a visa. Shopping, street food and beach parties are all available here in a 4-5 day trip.
5. Indonesia The meeting of temples, beaches and
It takes about 6-7 hours to reach Bali, but the journey is worth it. Sand temples, rice fields, surfing spots and beaches all combine to make for an exciting tour. Both on-arrival visas and e-visas are easy for Indians.
6. Vietnam, the land of food and nature
Be it the old city of Hanoi or the beautiful scenery of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam is a place to explore. The flight time is 5-6 hours and the online e-visa system is fast and approved within 24-72 hours. No trip is complete without trying pho, banh mi and spring rolls.
7. Mauritius, the fairy tale of the Indian Ocean
Mauritius, full of white sand beaches, lagoons and cultural diversity, is a bit of a journey, a 6-7 hour flight. However, it is ideal for those who want to relax. Indians can enter here without a visa, and the travel period is valid for up to 60 days.
Here are some tips for short vacations and big trips
- Check your documents-Even in visa-free countries, you may be asked for hotel bookings or return tickets.
- Take a red-eye flight -Choosing a night flight increases travel time.
- No extra sightseeing-Choose just one city or island.
- Keep an eye on the weather-Especially if you are planning during the monsoon season.
FAQs
Which countries can Indians travel to without a visa?
Bhutan, Maldives, Mauritius and Thailand will be visa-free (from 2025).
What are the best international trips for 3-4 days?
Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives and Thailand. If you have 4-5 days, Bali, Vietnam and Mauritius are also good options.
How to get an e-visa?
Countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Bali can get an e-visa quickly by applying online.
Which are the most budget-friendly destinations?
Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Thailand—flight, food and accommodation costs are comparatively low.
How to make a weekend trip work?
Pack light in advance, book flexible flights and choose one destination instead of multiple places.
Hi readers. I’m Piyali Batabyal, a passionate blogger who loves to share her thoughts, ideas, and experiences across a variety of topics—from lifestyle and beauty to personal growth and creativity. With a curious mind and a love for words.
Alongside my writing, I am also a professional makeup artist with a flair for enhancing natural beauty and creating transformative looks.