Visa issue is a major hurdle which prevents travellers from visiting many countries. Elaborate procedures are involved in obtaining visa from most nations and there have been numerous incidents where dream trips have been cancelled over delay in the process.
Travellers have often wished to travel abroad without a visa. Such people can now visit some countries which allow Indians to travel there even without this document. Another advantage is that most of these places are noted for their scenic beauty.
Onmanorama takes a look at six of these countries.
Nepal
India's neighbour with quite a large number of tourist spots. Visitors from India do not need a visa. Instead, they should carry their passport or any other identity card.
Nepal is accessible by air and road. The country flaunts several stunning destinations, including the Pasupathinath Temple on the banks of the River Bagmathi. The temple is a revered pilgrimage spot for Hindus.
Another major attraction is Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is on the list of UNESCO’s world heritage sites. Visitors can learn about the history, art, and culture of the Bhaktapur dynasty at the place.
Nepal is an ideal place for adventurous travellers too. The Annapurna circuit in the country is among the top trekking paths in the world. The trekking season is during October-November.
Nepal is indeed one of the best holiday destinations on the Earth.
Bhutan
Bhutan is among the nations with the lowest per capita income, but when it comes to happiness quotient, the country scores very high. It allows Indian citizens to visit without a visa.
The country is connected to India by air as well as road. Capital Thimphu is about an hour's drive from the airport, Paro.
Among the most stunning locations in Thimphu is Buddha Point. A three-hour trip takes travellers to Punakha. Being in the lap of the mighty Himalayan mountain ranges, Bhutan presents a bouquet of scenic spots like Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong which flaunts stunning architecture, Wangdue Phodrang, Taktsang where trekking facilities are available and Tiger's Nest Monastery.
Hong Kong
Indian citizens can stay in Hong Kong with a free visa up to 14 days. It is among the places which witness the highest tourist footfalls in the world. Attractions include numerous high-rises, night markets, Disneyland and sumptuous food.
Hong Kong is referred to as a shoppers' paradise with its markets displaying an amazing variety of wares.
Travellers are drawn to the place by the skyscrapers which offer a stunning panoramic view, Lan Kwai Fong with its 90 pubs and clubs where partying takes place round the clock and Disneyland which offers fun and excitement for people of all ages.
Maldives
It is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Maldives, which lures travellers with its pristine beaches, allows Indians a stay of up to 30 days on a free visa. All that needs to be carried while travelling to Maldives are passport and the return ticket.
Visitors love to stay at the beach resorts in the country which are rated as among the most beautiful in the world. To enjoy the Maldives experience the best, a stay in the water villas is a must.
Celebrities, including top film stars, reach Maldives to spend their holidays. The stunning landscape, beaches and facilities for water sports keep visitors engaged. Snorkelling, sailing and underwater diving are among the adventure activities that thrill visitors.
Mauritius
This is another picturesque location in India's neighbourhood. Travellers from India can avail the visa-on-arrival facility for which only passport and return ticket need to be carried. Mauritius allows a stay of up to 60 days for Indian citizens through this procedure.
The highlights of a Mauritius trip are the beaches, among the best in the world, and the cuisine, which includes the most delectable fish dishes.
Apart from the stunning beaches, the island nation is known for its rainforests, waterfalls and unique fauna. Black River Gorges, the most important national park, hosts several plant and animal species which cannot be observed anywhere else.
Other attractions include Trou aux Cerfs, an inactive volcano and Eureka House which is a reminder of the colony rule.
Cambodia
The country is famous for the amazing Angkor Wat temple complex. Indian citizens can stay up to 30 days without major procedures. The most popular attraction is indeed Angkor Wat, classified a world heritage site by UNESCO.
Another interesting site is the Royal Palace at Phnom Penh which is a fine example of Khmer architecture. Visitors can also get an idea about the monarchies who ruled over Cambodia at the palace.
A cultural village in the form of a theme park and the Siem Reap Museum present displays which give visitors a peep into Cambodia’s life, culture, and history.
The country also entices visitors with its scenery.
