1 / 13Indian travellers are showing a strong appetite for short-haul international holidays that offer value, easy access, and cultural variety. According to the India Holiday Report by Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, 85% of travellers are planning multiple getaways in 2025. (Image: Shutterstock)
2 / 13With improved connectivity, visa free/easy visa entry, and demand for personalised and flexible travel experiences, short-haul markets are seeing a marked resurgence. Here are our top recommended destinations for Indian travellers in the upcoming season, post monsoon. (Image: Shutterstock)
3 / 13No 1. Vietnam | Vietnam remains a value-driven market with high repeat interest. Phu Quoc in particular is emerging as a favourable alternative to over-touristed Southeast Asian beach destinations, offering cleaner beaches, mid-segment resort developments, and direct regional access. For Indian travellers, there’s an added advantage—Phu Quoc is visa-free, provided the stay is limited to the island and not extended to the Vietnamese mainland. The destination is gaining strong traction among young couples and FIT travellers seeking quieter coastal experiences and immersive travel opportunities. City dwellers, meanwhile, have a multitude of options to explore—from the heritage charm of Hoi An and Hue to tourism hotspots like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
4 / 13No 2. Nepal | Just a short flight or drive away, Nepal offers Indian travellers visa-free access, breathtaking landscapes, and deep spiritual experiences. Places like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini are ideal for nature walks, monastery visits, and scenic lake retreats. Nepal works well for couples, solo travellers, and short-format spiritual or wellness getaways. (Image: Shutterstock)
5 / 13No 3. Bhutan | Bhutan is emerging as a favourite among Indian Travelllers. With no visa requirement (only a Sustainable Development Fee for Indians), this Himalayan kingdom offers peaceful monasteries, misty treks, and vibrant local culture. Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha are perfect for a 4–5 day nature and culture break.
6 / 13No 4. Thailand | Thailand continues to be a top draw when it comes to short-haul travel, but preferences are shifting from commercial hotspots such as Bangkok and Pattaya to lesser-known destinations such as Phuket and Krabi, given their appeal for both premium and mid-range leisure travellers. These destinations are perfect for lovers of the outdoors who are seeking natural beauty, marine excursions, immersive cultural and culinary experiences, all with improved hotel infrastructure catering to Indian families and honeymooners. (Image: Canva)
7 / 13No 5. Malaysia and Singapore | This combination continues to perform well due to reliable infrastructure, indoor attraction-heavy itineraries (ideal for monsoon and post monsoon travel), and family-centric offerings. These destinations benefit from repeat Indian traffic, clear visa processes, and robust seasonal deals — especially for school holiday windows and MICE travellers. (Image: Reuters)
8 / 13No 6. Japan | Interest in Autumn travel (October–November) to Japan is growing, especially among culturally inclined travellers. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka offer high cultural value, and Japan’s efficient infrastructure enables multi-city itineraries. This shift beyond cherry blossom season is driven by evolving consumer awareness and greater air access.
9 / 13No 7. South Korea | The resurgence of K-pop and Korean entertainment has significantly enhanced South Korea’s appeal, particularly among Gen Z and millennial travellers. Seoul, Busan and Jeju Island are now top inclusions in experiential travel packages, with shopping, food, and pop culture as major drivers. (Wikimedia Commons)
10 / 13No 8. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan | Both destinations are emerging as cost-effective and culturally rich alternatives to more established Eurasian routes. With easy e-visa access, increasing air capacity, and unique architectural and natural assets, they are suitable for first-time international travellers and heritage-focused groups. (Image: Tourism Uzbekistan)
11 / 13No 9. Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka is back on the radar, thanks to short cruises from Indian ports (3–4 nights) and its dual positioning for beach and spiritual travel. This is particularly relevant for travellers seeking short-format itineraries or cruise-based holiday extensions, while still benefiting from affordability and proximity. (Image: Shutterstock)
12 / 13No 10. UAE (Dubai/Abu Dhabi) | UAE continues to perform strongly in the premium and luxury segment, with new product offerings such as gaming tourism, theme parks, and fine-dining experiences. Its visa ease, frequency of flights, and diversified itineraries make it a core short-haul recommendation for both leisure and incentive travel.
13 / 13No 11. Mauritius | Although, not a short haul destination, it is visa-free for Indian travellers and makes for an ideal five to six day tropical escape post monsoon. With direct flights from India, the island offers crystal-clear lagoons, lush hiking trails, luxury beach resorts, and activities like snorkelling, dolphin watching, and cultural tours of Chamarel and Port Louis. Its year-round pleasant weather and romantic vibe make it perfect for couples, honeymooners, and families seeking a relaxed yet enriching holiday.
