Visa demand surges; here are the top international destinations Indians are visiting
Outbound travel from India in 2024 shows a significant rise, with visa applications increasing by 11% year-on-year and surpassing 2019 levels by 4%. Popular destinations include Canada, the US, and the UK. VFS Global advises applicants to apply ea...
According to VFS Global, Indian travelers showed high demand for destinations such as Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
“India continues to show a strong demand for international travel, and it's clear that this robust momentum will persist in 2025. We encourage applicants to apply for their visas well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure a smooth travel experience,” said Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global.
Talwar also cautioned applicants against fraudulent websites and fake social media pages posing as VFS Global. “Appointments are free and available only through VFS on a first-come, first-served basis. We continue to raise awareness about this issue and urge applicants to plan their travel early.”
20 up-and-coming travel destinations you need to visit before the tourists flock in
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Best Time to Visit: June–September (for hiking), December–March (for skiing) Approximate Budget: Rs 80,000–Rs 1,20,000 per person (5 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Tbilisi Arrival & Transfer to Mestia
Flight from India to Tbilisi (~Rs 35,000 round-trip) Overnight sleeper train or shared taxi to Mestia (~Rs 2,500
Day 2: Explore Mestia Visit Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography Hike to Chalaadi Glacier Enjoy local Svan cuisine (~Rs 1,500/day for meals)
Day 3: Day Trip to Ushguli UNESCO-listed highest inhabited village in Europe See medieval stone towers and Lamaria Church 4x4 car rental (~Rs 3,500 per person)
Day 4: Koruldi Lakes Hike Trek to panoramic alpine lakes (~6-hour round trip) Relax at Mestia’s cozy cafés
Day 5: Return to Tbilisi & Fly Home Shared taxi back to Tbilisi (~Rs 2,500) Evening flight to India
Accommodation: Rs 3,000–Rs 5,000 per night (guesthouses) Local Transport: Rs 5,000 for shared taxis
Best Time to Visit: June–September (for hiking), December–March (for skiing)Approximate Budget: Rs 80,000–Rs 1,20,000 per person (5 days)ItineraryDay 1: Tbilisi Arrival & Transfer to MestiaFlight fro..
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Best Time to Visit: February–August Approximate Budget: Rs 60,000–Rs 90,000 per person (5 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi & Transfer to Phong Nha Flight from India to Hanoi (~Rs 28,000 round-trip) Overnight bus or train to Phong Nha (~Rs 1,800)
Day 3: Hang En Cave or Dark Cave Adventure Hang En trek & camping (~Rs 15,000) OR Zip-lining & mud bath in Dark Cave (~Rs 2,500)
Day 4: Cycling & Relaxing by the River Cycle through Bong Lai Valley (~Rs 500 for rental) Relax at Mooc Springs (~Rs 800)
Day 5: Return to Hanoi & Fly Home Overnight bus (~Rs 1,800) Flight back to India
Accommodation: Rs 2,500–Rs 4,500 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 1,200/day
Best Time to Visit: February–AugustApproximate Budget: Rs 60,000–Rs 90,000 per person (5 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Hanoi & Transfer to Phong NhaFlight from India to Hanoi (~Rs 28,000 round-trip)..
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Best Time to Visit: May–September Approximate Budget: Rs 65,000–Rs 90,000 per person (6 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Lombok Flight from India to Lombok via Bali (~Rs 35,000 round-trip) Relax at Kuta Beach and explore local markets
Day 2: South Lombok Beaches Visit Tanjung Aan, Selong Belanak, and Mawun beaches (~Rs 1,500 for rental bike)
Day 3: Trek to Mount Rinjani Start a 2-day guided trek (~Rs 12,000 per person including meals and camping)
Day 4: Summit & Descend Rinjani Witness sunrise from the crater Return to Senaru and relax at a guesthouse
Day 5: Gili Islands Day Trip Snorkeling in Gili Trawangan (~Rs 3,000 for boat & gear rental)
Day 6: Return to India Flight from Lombok to India via Bali
Accommodation: Rs 2,500–Rs 5,000 per night Food & Transport: Rs 1,500/day
Best Time to Visit: May–SeptemberApproximate Budget: Rs 65,000–Rs 90,000 per person (6 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrival in LombokFlight from India to Lombok via Bali (~Rs 35,000 round-trip)Relax at Kuta ..
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Best Time to Visit: March–May, September–November Approximate Budget: Rs 35,000–Rs 50,000 per person (5 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati & Drive to Bomdila Flight to Guwahati (~Rs 10,000 round-trip) Taxi to Bomdila (~Rs 5,000 shared ride)
Day 2: Drive to Tawang Stop at Sela Pass and Jaswant Garh War Memorial Explore Tawang town
Day 3: Explore Tawang Visit Tawang Monastery, India’s largest Check out Nuranang Falls and Tawang War Memorial
Day 4: Visit Bum La Pass & Madhuri Lake Requires ILP permit (~Rs 500) Private taxi (~Rs 3,500 per person)
Day 5: Return to Guwahati & Fly Home Shared taxi (~Rs 5,000)
Accommodation: Rs 1,500–Rs 4,000 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 1,000/day
Best Time to Visit: March–May, September–NovemberApproximate Budget: Rs 35,000–Rs 50,000 per person (5 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrival in Guwahati & Drive to BomdilaFlight to Guwahati (~Rs 10,000 round-..
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Best Time to Visit: June–September, December–March (for skiing) Approximate Budget: Rs 75,000–Rs 1,00,000 per person (5 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Almaty Flight from India (~Rs 40,000 round-trip) Stroll around Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral
Day 2: Medeu & Shymbulak Visit Medeu Ice Rink & Shymbulak Ski Resort (~Rs 2,500 for cable car)
Day 3: Charyn Canyon Day Trip Guided tour (~Rs 4,500 per person)
Day 4: Big Almaty Lake & Kok-Tobe Hill Visit the turquoise lake (~Rs 2,000 taxi ride) Ride cable car to Kok-Tobe Hill
Day 5: Return to India
Accommodation: Rs 3,000–Rs 6,000 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 1,500/day
Best Time to Visit: June–September, December–March (for skiing)Approximate Budget: Rs 75,000–Rs 1,00,000 per person (5 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in AlmatyFlight from India (~Rs 40,000 round-trip)St..
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Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November Approximate Budget: Rs 1,20,000–Rs 1,50,000 per person (7 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon & Drive to Evora Flight from India (~Rs 70,000 round-trip) Rent a car (~Rs 3,500 per day)
Day 2: Explore Evora Visit the Roman Temple, Chapel of Bones, and Evora Cathedral
Day 3: Visit Monsaraz & Vineyards Wine tasting at a local vineyard (~Rs 3,000) Explore the medieval town of Monsaraz
Day 4: Costa Vicentina Beaches Visit Porto Covo and Odeceixe Beach
Day 5: Marvao & Castelo de Vide Explore hilltop castles and scenic countryside
Day 6: Drive Back to Lisbon Explore Lisbon before the flight back
Accommodation: Rs 4,000–Rs 7,000 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 2,500/day
Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–NovemberApproximate Budget: Rs 1,20,000–Rs 1,50,000 per person (7 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrival in Lisbon & Drive to EvoraFlight from India (~Rs 70,000 round-..
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Best Time to Visit: June–September (hiking), November–March (Northern Lights) Approximate Budget: Rs 1,50,000–Rs 1,80,000 per person (6 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Bodø & Ferry to Lofoten Flight from India (~Rs 80,000 round-trip) Ferry to Svolvær (~Rs 3,500)
Day 3: Hike to Reinebringen One of Norway’s most scenic hikes
Day 4: Visit Henningsvær & Nusfjord Explore charming fishing villages
Day 5: Northern Lights Tour or Kayaking Guided Northern Lights tour (~Rs 8,000)
Day 6: Return to India
Accommodation: Rs 6,000–Rs 12,000 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 3,500/day
Best Time to Visit: June–September (hiking), November–March (Northern Lights)Approximate Budget: Rs 1,50,000–Rs 1,80,000 per person (6 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Bodø & Ferry to LofotenFlight fro..
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Best Time to Visit: May–September Approximate Budget: Rs 1,10,000–Rs 1,40,000 per person (5 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam & Travel to Terschelling Flight from India (~Rs 70,000 round-trip) Train to Harlingen & ferry to Terschelling (~Rs 3,500)
Day 2: Explore West-Terschelling Visit Brandaris Lighthouse Walk along Groene Strand (Green Beach)
Day 3: Bike Across the Island Rent a bicycle (~Rs 1,200 per day) Explore Boschplaat Nature Reserve
Day 4: Mudflat Hiking & Seal Watching Guided mudflat hike (~Rs 2,500) Boat tour to see seals (~Rs 3,000)
Day 5: Return to India
Accommodation: Rs 6,000–Rs 10,000 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 3,000/day
Best Time to Visit: May–SeptemberApproximate Budget: Rs 1,10,000–Rs 1,40,000 per person (5 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Amsterdam & Travel to TerschellingFlight from India (~Rs 70,000 round-trip)Tr..
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Best Time to Visit: May–October Approximate Budget: Rs 80,000–Rs 1,10,000 per person (6 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Podgorica & Travel to Kotor Flight from India (~Rs 50,000 round-trip) Bus from Podgorica to Kotor (~Rs 800)
Day 2: Explore Kotor Old Town Visit St. Tryphon Cathedral & Maritime Museum Hike to San Giovanni Fortress (~Rs 400 entry fee)
Day 3: Day Trip to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks Boat tour (~Rs 2,000 per person)
Day 4: Lovcen National Park & Njeguši Village Visit Mausoleum of Njegoš & taste local cheese (~Rs 3,000 for taxi tour)
Day 5: Relax at Kotor Bay & Beach
Day 6: Return to India
Accommodation: Rs 3,000–Rs 6,000 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 1,500/day
Best Time to Visit: May–OctoberApproximate Budget: Rs 80,000–Rs 1,10,000 per person (6 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Podgorica & Travel to KotorFlight from India (~Rs 50,000 round-trip)Bus from Podg..
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Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–October Approximate Budget: Rs 85,000–Rs 1,20,000 per person (6 days)
Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Bucharest & Travel to Sibiu Flight from India (~Rs 55,000 round-trip) Train or bus to Sibiu (~Rs 2,500)
Day 2: Explore Sibiu Old Town Visit Brukenthal Palace & Council Tower
Day 3: Astra Open-Air Museum & Dumbrava Forest Entry fee (~Rs 500) Horse carriage ride (~Rs 1,500)
Day 4: Day Trip to Transfagarasan Highway & Balea Lake Private tour (~Rs 5,000 per person)
Day 5: Relax & Try Local Cuisine
Day 6: Return to India
Accommodation: Rs 3,000–Rs 5,500 per night Food & Local Transport: Rs 1,500/day
Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–OctoberApproximate Budget: Rs 85,000–Rs 1,20,000 per person (6 days)ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Bucharest & Travel to SibiuFlight from India (~Rs 55,000 round-..
A growing trend in visa processing services has been the rising demand for the Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service. This premium offering allows applicants to complete their visa process, including biometric enrolment, from their preferred location. In 2024, VAYD bookings in India increased more than six-fold compared to 2019, reflecting a 21% rise over 2023. VFS Global currently offers this service for 16 countries within India.
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VFS Global, a partner for 52 governments in India, facilitates visa applications through a network of over 560 centers across 19 cities. The company manages front-end administrative tasks, including collecting visa application forms, required documentation, and biometric enrolment if applicable. However, it does not influence visa approval decisions.
Things to keep in mind when applying for a visa
1. Apply in Advance: It is recommended to apply for visas as early as booking flights and accommodation. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before the travel date. Under the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective February 9, 2020, applicants can apply for a Schengen visa up to six months in advance. With increasing demand and limited appointment availability, early application is advised.
2. Do Not Fall For Fraud: Visa applicants should be cautious of fraudulent entities charging fees for scheduling appointments or offering unauthorized services. However, some governments require pre-payment of service fees at the time of booking, which is reimbursed or deducted during the application process. This measure ensures the system remains secure from misuse.
10 Southeast Asian travel itineraries under ₹1 lakh for a week
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Exploring multiple destinations in Southeast Asia on a budget can provide a diverse and enriching travel experience.
Here are ten itineraries that blend cultural immersion, natural beauty, and urban exploration, all within a week and under ₹1 lakh.
Exploring multiple destinations in Southeast Asia on a budget can provide a diverse and enriching travel experience. Here are ten itineraries that blend cultural immersion, natural beauty, and urban ..
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Begin your journey in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital. Spend the first day visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, then dive into the bustling nightlife of Khao San Road.
On the second day, take a day trip to Ayutthaya, known for its ancient temples and ruins.
Next, fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia, to explore the iconic Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm. Consider a visit to the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake for a unique cultural experience.
Return to Bangkok on the final day to enjoy shopping at the Chatuchak Market before heading home.
Key Highlights: - Ancient temples in Ayutthaya and Angkor Wat. - Cultural immersion at Tonle Sap Lake. - Shopping at Bangkok’s bustling markets.
Begin your journey in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital. Spend the first day visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, then dive into the bustling nightlife of Khao San Road. On the second day, take ..
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Start your adventure in Kuala Lumpur, where you can marvel at the Petronas Towers and enjoy the tranquility of KLCC Park.
The following day, explore Batu Caves and Chinatown for a mix of natural and cultural sights.
A quick flight to Penang brings you to George Town, known for its vibrant street art and heritage architecture. After exploring Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple, travel by bus or train to Singapore.
Discover the modern wonders of Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, and spend a day at Universal Studios or Sentosa Island.
Wrap up your trip with shopping at Orchard Road and exploring Little India.
Key Highlights - Iconic cityscapes of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. - Street art and cultural heritage in Penang. - Entertainment at Universal Studios or Sentosa Island.
Start your adventure in Kuala Lumpur, where you can marvel at the Petronas Towers and enjoy the tranquility of KLCC Park. The following day, explore Batu Caves and Chinatown for a mix of natural and ..
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Kick off this itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, known for its bustling Old Quarter and historic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Spend a full day cruising Halong Bay, famous for its emerald waters and limestone islands. Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos, for a change of pace.
Here, you can visit the stunning Kuang Si Falls and explore ancient temples like Wat Xieng Thong.
The city offers a serene environment, perfect for exploring its night markets and the Royal Palace Museum.
Key Highlights - Natural beauty of Halong Bay and Kuang Si Falls. - Cultural experiences in Hanoi's Old Quarter and Luang Prabang. - Historical sites like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Kick off this itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, known for its bustling Old Quarter and historic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Spend a full day cruising Halong Bay, famous for its emerald..
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This itinerary begins with relaxation on Bali's beautiful Seminyak Beach. Explore Ubud's Tegalalang Rice Terraces and visit the Sacred Monkey Forest.
A day trip to Nusa Penida Island allows you to enjoy some of Bali’s most stunning beaches and viewpoints.
Then, fly to Kuala Lumpur, where you can explore the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves.
A quick day trip to Genting Highlands offers a different kind of adventure with its cool climate and entertainment options.
Key Highlights - Beach relaxation and cultural exploration in Bali. - Urban sights in Kuala Lumpur. - Scenic getaway to Genting Highlands.
This itinerary begins with relaxation on Bali's beautiful Seminyak Beach. Explore Ubud's Tegalalang Rice Terraces and visit the Sacred Monkey Forest. A day trip to Nusa Penida Island allows you to en..
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Start in Bangkok, exploring the city's famous temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Experience the vibrant local culture at the floating markets.
Then, fly to Phuket for a couple of days of relaxation and adventure on Patong Beach and island hopping to the Phi Phi Islands.
From there, head to Hanoi, Vietnam, to delve into its rich history and culture, with a day trip to the breathtaking Halong Bay.
Key Highlights - Blend of city life, beach relaxation, and natural beauty. - Cultural experiences at Bangkok's temples and Hanoi's Old Quarter. - Adventure activities like island hopping in Phuket.
Start in Bangkok, exploring the city's famous temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Experience the vibrant local culture at the floating markets. Then, fly to Phuket for a couple of days of rela..
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Begin in Siem Reap, exploring the incredible temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.
After a couple of days, fly to Phnom Penh to visit the Royal Palace and learn about Cambodia's history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Your journey continues in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where you can explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and take a tour of the Mekong Delta.
Key Highlights - Historic sites like Angkor Wat and the Cu Chi Tunnels. - Insight into Cambodia's history and culture in Phnom Penh. - Exploration of the Mekong Delta’s unique waterways.
Begin in Siem Reap, exploring the incredible temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. After a couple of days, fly to Phnom Penh to visit the Royal Palace and learn about Cambodia's history at the Tuol ..
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Start in Singapore, experiencing its modern attractions like Marina Bay Sands and the vibrant neighborhoods of Little India and Chinatown.
Spend a day at Sentosa Island or Universal Studios for some fun and entertainment.
Then, take a ferry to Bintan Island in Indonesia for a relaxing beach getaway. Enjoy water sports, spa treatments, and serene beachside relaxation.
Key Highlights - Modern city exploration in Singapore. - Entertainment and adventure at Sentosa Island. - Beach relaxation on Bintan Island.
Start in Singapore, experiencing its modern attractions like Marina Bay Sands and the vibrant neighborhoods of Little India and Chinatown.Spend a day at Sentosa Island or Universal Studios for some f..
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Fly into Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. Spend the first day exploring the historical sites like Intramuros and Rizal Park.
The next day, fly to Palawan and head to El Nido, known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs. Enjoy island-hopping tours around Bacuit Bay, visiting places like Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon.
Spend the final day relaxing on the beach before returning to Manila for your flight home.
Key Highlights - Historical exploration in Manila. - Natural beauty and island hopping in El Nido. - Relaxation on Palawan’s pristine beaches.
Fly into Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. Spend the first day exploring the historical sites like Intramuros and Rizal Park. The next day, fly to Palawan and head to El Nido, known for it..
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Begin in Chiang Mai, Thailand, exploring ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and enjoying a day with elephants at an ethical sanctuary.
Fly to Vientiane, Laos, to see the famous Patuxai monument and That Luang stupa.
Continue to Luang Prabang to experience the peaceful atmosphere, visiting Kuang Si Falls and partaking in the morning alms-giving ceremony with local monks.
Key Highlights - Cultural and historical sites in Chiang Mai and Vientiane. - Natural beauty and serene environment in Luang Prabang. - Unique experiences like the alms-giving ceremony.
Begin in Chiang Mai, Thailand, exploring ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and enjoying a day with elephants at an ethical sanctuary. Fly to Vientiane, Laos, to see the famous Patuxai monument and ..
