logo
Henley Passport Index: List of 59 countries where Indians can travel visa-free; check the 2 NEW destinations here

Henley Passport Index: List of 59 countries where Indians can travel visa-free; check the 2 NEW destinations here

Mint3 days ago
The Indian passport has strengthened its position globally, jumping eight spots to rank 77th on the Henley Passport Index 2025. While Indian passport holders now have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 destinations, the climb is notable, especially after a five-rank drop last year.
The Henley Passport Index ranks 199 countries based on the number of destinations their citizens can travel to without a prior visa. Despite adding only two new destinations to its visa-free tally, India's upward move signals improving global mobility.
Among the most popular countries that do not require a visa for Indian travellers:
Several others offer a visa-on-arrival (VOA):
According to the full list, Indian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free or VOA access to 59 destinations, including: St. Vincent and the Grenadines
St. Lucia
St. Kitts and Nevis
Zimbabwe
Sri Lanka
Vanuatu
Somalia
Sierra Leone
Seychelles
Senegal
Tuvalu
Samoa
Trinidad and Tobago
Qatar
Timor-Leste
Rwanda
Tanzania
Thailand
Philippines
Madagascar
Haiti
Macao (SAR China)
Dominica
Guinea-Bissau
Djibouti
Grenada
Cook Islands
Laos
Kiribati
Kenya
Kazakhstan
Comoro Islands
Jordan
Fiji
Jamaica
Cape Verde Islands
Ethiopia
Cambodia
Iran
Indonesia
Burundi
Angola
Barbados
Bhutan
Bolivia
British Virgin Islands
Malaysia
Maldives
Marshall Islands
Mauritius
Micronesia
Mongolia
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nepal
Niue
Palau Islands
While India is slowly improving, Asian countries dominate the top ranks on the Henley Index: Singapore holds the top position with visa-free access to 193 destinations.
Japan and South Korea follow with access to 190 destinations.
European passports from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others rank third with entry to 189 destinations.
At the bottom of the list is Afghanistan, with visa-free access to only 25 destinations.
Interestingly, China has seen a sharp rise over the years—from 94th in 2015 to 60th in 2025—though it still lacks access to Europe's Schengen region.
India's rise in the global passport index may be modest, but it reflects growing diplomatic reach and international cooperation. As more countries open their borders to Indian travellers without stringent visa policies, global access continues to expand, albeit slowly.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Where Wellness Meets The Ocean: The Future Of Healing Holidays
Where Wellness Meets The Ocean: The Future Of Healing Holidays

News18

time34 minutes ago

  • News18

Where Wellness Meets The Ocean: The Future Of Healing Holidays

Last Updated: Wellness tourism has witnessed a spike. Amidst this, destinations such as Thailand that offer opportunities for holistic wellness and slow travel are emerging as a top choice. The world of travel is evolving, moving beyond mere sightseeing toward a more meaningful pursuit of well-being. In the post-pandemic world, holidays have become more than just a break; they're a conscious journey toward rejuvenation, mental reset and balance, and inner connection. This shift has sparked a growing demand for wellness-led escapes, where travellers seek curated experiences that restore the mind, invigorate the body, and uplift the soul. The Indian travel industry, mirroring global trends, is at the forefront of this wellness revolution. Discerning Indian travellers are increasingly seeking luxurious, immersive wellness experiences, a shift underscored by recent global data. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the wellness tourism market is poised to nearly double, from $651 billion in 2022 to an estimated $1.4 trillion by 2027. In Asia, this transformation is even more pronounced. A 2025 report reveals that 90% of travellers across the Asia Pacific now consider wellness offerings a key factor in their travel decisions, up from 80% the year before. As wellness travel evolves, nature-led therapies are taking centre stage, with the ocean emerging as a particularly potent source of healing. More than a scenic backdrop, the ocean delivers tangible health benefits. The practice of thalassotherapy, which uses seawater and marine ingredients, is gaining traction for its revitalising effects. Rich in essential minerals, seawater is believed to improve circulation, soothe inflammation, and elevate serotonin levels. Thailand's Koh Samui Leads the Way Among Asia's leading wellness destinations, Thailand continues to shine. Its ancient healing traditions, pristine coastlines, and immersive hospitality have made it a sanctuary for seekers of holistic transformation. Between 2022 and 2023, Thailand's wellness tourism spending more than doubled, signalling one of the fastest-growing segments in the region. Explaining this trend, Jasjit Singh Assi, General Manager at Four Seasons Resort, Koh Samui, notes, 'At the heart of this resurgence is Koh Samui, an island where lush tropical landscapes meet tranquil beaches, and where the art of well-being is woven into every experience. Long regarded as a haven for detox and rejuvenation, the island has become a global epicentre for oceanfront wellness." 'Among its standout destinations is Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, a luxurious retreat that captures the essence of healing by the sea. Nestled within a secluded cove along the Gulf of Thailand, the resort offers a deeply immersive journey shaped by nature, tradition, and thoughtful care," adds Assi. At Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, wellness is rooted in the ancient Thai philosophy of the four elements, brought to life through personalised rituals like sound healing, Reiki, and Nam Vibration, where water-filled singing bowls awaken chakras. Guests can also engage in open-air Muay Thai training overlooking the Gulf for a powerful blend of movement and mindfulness. The rise of healing holidays is more than a trend; it's a reflection of a collective realisation that well-being is paramount. In a world that constantly demands our attention, these purpose-driven luxury experiences are no longer an indulgence but a necessity. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

India To Open Cho La For 'Battlefield Tourism': Top Sikkim Official
India To Open Cho La For 'Battlefield Tourism': Top Sikkim Official

NDTV

time39 minutes ago

  • NDTV

India To Open Cho La For 'Battlefield Tourism': Top Sikkim Official

Guwahati: India will open Cho La in Sikkim to tourists as part of its Ranbhoomi or battlefield tourism initiative, a top officer in the Sikkim government said on Friday. The area near Doklam - the strategic trijunction between India, China and Bhutan that saw tension in 2017 - will also be opened for tourists under this initiative, Sikkim Additional Chief Secretary CS Rao said. The Sikkim government is working on transforming the infrastructure near these areas to support tourism, Mr Rao said. "Some 30 places have been identified across India for battlefield tourism," Mr Rao said. "We are in touch with the army for setting up infrastructure in the areas identified in Sikkim for battlefield tourism." Nathu La in Sikkim is already a popular tourist destination. Tourists will be given special permits to visit the Indian side of the Doklam trijunction, Mr Rao said. Several rounds of discussions with the army and the Ministry of External Affairs have taken place, sources said. The Bhutan government has been kept aware of the plans, they said. The army and the state government are looking to start the initiative in late September, sources added. In the initial months, only 30 vehicles will be allowed to travel to the destination daily, which may increase to 50 cars per day, taking into account road conditions and clearance by the army. The standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in Doklam in 2017 lasted for 73 days. The Doklam trijunction overlooks the narrow Siliguri corridor in north Bengal, also known as the 'Chicken's Neck', which connects the northeast region with the rest of India.

Travelling To Thailand, Cambodia Amid Clashes? Avoid These Areas
Travelling To Thailand, Cambodia Amid Clashes? Avoid These Areas

NDTV

time42 minutes ago

  • NDTV

Travelling To Thailand, Cambodia Amid Clashes? Avoid These Areas

As tensions grow along the Thailand-Cambodia border conflict, India has issued travel advisories on Saturday, urging its nationals to avoid areas near the border due to security concerns. The Embassy of India in Cambodia, based in Phnom Penh, cautioned its citizens against travelling to the border areas and also included the emergency contact details in view of the ongoing clashes. — India in Cambodia (@indembcam) July 26, 2025 On Friday, the Indian Embassy in Thailand issued a similar alert and urged Indian travellers to avoid areas near the conflict zone. "In view of the situation near Thailand-Cambodia border, all Indian travelers to Thailand are advised to check updates from Thai official sources, including TAT Newsroom," it read. In view of the situation near Thailand-Cambodia border, all Indian travelers to Thailand are advised to check updates from Thai official sources, including TAT Newsroom. As per Tourism Authority of Thailand places mentioned in the following link are not recommended for… — India in Thailand (@IndiainThailand) July 25, 2025 Places to avoid in Thailand Ubon Ratchathani: Phu Chong-Na Yoi National Park (Na Chaluai), Kaeng Lamduan (Nam Yuen), Chong An Ma Checkpoint (Nam Yuen) Surin: Prasat Ta Muen Thom/Tod, Prasat Ta Kwai, Prasat Ban Pluang, Prasat Phum Pon, Chong Chom, Phanom Swai Forest Park, Phanom Dong Rak border zones Sisaket: Khao Phra Wihan NP (Pha Mo I Daeng), Chong Sa-ngam, Border areas near Kantharalak & Phu Sing, Buriram: Chong Sai Taku, Ta Phraya NP, Border zones near Ban Kruat & Lahan Sai Sa Kaeo: Ban Khlong Luek Checkpoint & Rong Kluea Market, Prasat Sdok Kok Thom, Border zones near Aranyaprathet & Khlong Hat Chanthaburi: Ban Laem & Ban Phat Kad checkpoints, Border zones near Pong Nam Ron & Soi Dao Trat: Ban Hat Lek, Ban Muen Dan & Ban Ma Muang checkpoints ???? Travel Advisory — Updated 24 July 2025 ???? Due to ongoing unrest along the Thai–Cambodian border, please note that several attractions in 7 provinces are now not recommended for visiting: ????Ubon Ratchathani • Phu Chong‑Na Yoi National Park (Na Chaluai) • Kaeng Lamduan (Nam… — TAT Newsroom (@Tatnews_Org) July 24, 2025 How many Indians travel to Thailand and Cambodia Both Thailand and Cambodia are popular among Indian tourists, primarily for their geographical proximity and climate. Besides, the two nations are also economic getaways for Indians looking for quick honeymoons or even trips with their friends and family. In 2024, Indians emerged as the third largest group to travel to Thailand. About 2.12 million Indian tourists visited Thailand last year, according to data shared by the Embassy of India in Bangkok. Only more Chinese and Malaysian nationals travelled to Thailand, the data showed. With just around 0.13 million Thai tourists travelling to India, the number was abysmally low in comparison. As far as Cambodia is concerned, 77,632 Indians travelled to the country in 2024, an increase of 12.8% over 2023, according to a report in The Phnom Penh Post. Of these, 58,743 were tourists, while the remainder were business travellers, it added. The two countries are also connected by direct flights between Phnom Penh and New Delhi and Kolkata and Siem Reap. Thailand-Cambodia Border-dispute A long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia escalated on Thursday, following years of tensions over contested territory. The situation turned violent after Thailand claimed that Cambodia fired long-range rockets at civilian places, including a petrol pump, killing at least six people. In retaliation, Thailand sent an F-16 fighter jet to target a Buddhist Pagoda, killing one civilian, according to Al Jazeera. Thailand's health ministry has reported 15 deaths, including 14 civilians and 1 soldier, while Cambodia has reported 32 fatalities so far. The UN court settled the issue in 2013, but after a Cambodian soldier was murdered in a fresh conflict in May, the matter escalated again. Thailand also expelled Cambodia's ambassador and recalled its envoy.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store