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With a nip in the air and winter vacations coming in, December becomes the perfect time for Indian travellers to head out for new experiences. Whether you're looking to southeast or preparing for long-haul vacations, many countries have now made it easier for Indian passport holders to visit; in fact, some are even visa-free. From Malaysia’s street food to Maldives’ azure lagoons, here are five countries to consider for your December getaway, and exactly what visa you’ll need (or not). Malaysia: Visa-Free For Indians Until 2026Malaysia is a dream mix of food, nature and shopping, and this year, it’s also visa-free for Indian tourists. Indian passport holders can enter without a visa for 30 days until December 2026. However, nearly all visitors must submit the MDAC, an electronic arrival card introduced in January 2024 to streamline entry. It must be completed within three days of arrival on the official IMIGRESEN portal, and is completely free. What to see in Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers, Langkawi’s beaches, Penang’s street art and food markets. Good to know: Carry proof of funds and return tickets for smooth immigration clearance. India To Malaysia Flights: There are direct flights to Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi from cities like Delhi and Bangalore. Thailand: 60-Day Visa-Free Entry For IndiansThailand remains one of the easiest and most popular destinations for Indian travellers, now even more so with its visa-free policy extended till May 2026 for stays up to 60 days. However, from 1 May 2025, all travellers have to get a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which must be applied for at least three days prior to arrival in the country. Travellers wishing to stay beyond the initial 60-day visa-free period may apply for a one-time extension of up to 30 days through the Immigration Bureau during their stay. What to see in Thailand: Bangkok’s street food, Chiang Mai’s lantern-lit old town, and Phuket’s beaches. India To Thailand Flights: There are direct flights to Thailand's Bangkok and Phuket from cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. Maldives: Visa On Arrival For IndiansA favourite of Bollywood celebrities, the Maldives continues to top Indian travellers’ wish lists, and for good reason. You can visit Maldives for 30 days with a visa that you get on arrival. Plus, the country is accessible in under-four-hour flights from India. What to see in Maldives: Snorkel at Maafushi, try a sea plane ride, or unwind at a overwater villa. Travel tip: Carry confirmed accommodation and return flight tickets. India to Maldives Flights: Maldivian Airline and IndiGo run direct flights from Kochi, Trivandrum to Malé while Air India runs direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai. Mauritius: 90 Days Visa-Free For IndiansMauritius is that postcard island where you can mix beach time with mountain hikes. Indian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days, making it perfect for long holidays. What to see in Mauritius: Chamarel’s Seven-Coloured Earth, Le Morne mountain, and Port Louis. Travel tip: Even if it’s visa-free, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. India To Mauritius Flights: You can reach Mauritius on a nonstop 7-hour Air India flight from Mumbai, or a 7 hour 40 minute Air Mauritius flight from Delhi (bi-weekly). Philippines: Visa-Free For 14 Days In a new update this year, Philippines now allows Indians visa-free entry for up to 14 days, or 30 days if you already have a valid US, UK, Schengen, or Japanese visa. Plus there are new direct flights that take you to this island nation! What to see in Philippines: Palawan’s island lagoons, Cebu’s coral reefs, and Manila’s lively old town. Travel tip: You can extend your stay by applying for an e-visa or longer tourist visa online. India to Philippines Flights: Air India has launched non-stop flights from Delhi to Manila in October. Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
