Its most populous city, Dubai, is one of the most visited places
Indian people, like many others, enjoy a well-deserved holiday to a foreign country and there are numerous holiday destinations to choose from.
For many countries, tourism is a major contributor to the economy.
Nowadays, there is so much to do on a holiday that there is something for everyone.
From exploring vibrant cities to sunbathing on a beach, it is almost guaranteed that holidaymakers will leave the country feeling happy.
For Indian citizens, some holiday destinations are preferred to others.
While some prefer relaxation, others like travelling to attractions. However, what remains the same is a liking for particular countries.
When looking at holiday destinations, here are some of the most popular among Indians.
Thailand
Thailand is a tourist’s dream holiday destination as it offers spectacular beaches, warm hospitality and authentic food.
While it is impossible to visit multiple cities in one trip, places like Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya offer a lot.
They are major tourist destinations but are well-known for different reasons. Bangkok is for those who want to experience the bustling city while Pattaya is famous for its nightlife.
Whether it is a city break with shopping, dining and relaxation or the beautiful beaches, exhilarating water sports and lounging in the sun, Thailand has it all.
You can also take a golfing holiday at one of the many hill resorts in the country.
Places to visit in Thailand include The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Indians love Thailand because there is lots to do and it is one of the cheaper holiday destinations to opt for.
The best time to visit in terms of cost is during mid-January when tourist numbers decrease. The lower price coupled with favourable weather makes Thailand an ideal place to go.
United Arab Emirates
It is no surprise that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular holiday destination among Indians.
Its most populous city, Dubai, is one of the most visited places in the world.
From what started out as an area covered in sand has been transformed into a vibrant hotspot for tourists.
Tourists have a wide variety of things to do, meaning that their trips to Dubai are always memorable.
From desert safaris to desert camping and visiting the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa, the place offers a plethora of activities to keep its travellers entertained.
Other places to visit include the world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall.
Like other complexes, different activities are in one place meaning that visitors can take part in a range of activities.
Dubai and the UAE do not just have a modernist setting. You can visit a lot of traditional areas which showcase the vast culture.
The UAE is a place that must be seen physically to be believed.
Vietnam
Tourism in Vietnam has grown over the years yet it remains unspoiled. This means that visitors can experience the authenticity of the country.
While it is mainly popular among backpackers, tourists like going to Vietnam because it is affordable.
You can actually last a whole day with just Rs. 500 (£5.40). This will provide you with accommodation, delicious food, transport and even some drinks.
The country’s capital, Hanoi has undergone many transformations but it has not strayed away from its French essence.
Holidaymakers can find authentic patisseries producing tasty croissants.
The city’s Old Quarter is a place which must be visited, especially if you want to experience a rare sense of timelessness and some peace.
For a rural Vietnamese experience, head to the French mountain resort town of Da Lat. The town is complete with flowing rice terraces and lush greenery.
Hanoi is a tourist hub where multiple motorbike tours take place. Ho Chin Minh City and Saigon are other popular cities to visit.
Vietnam may not be the first holiday destination which comes to mind but it is becoming more popular and is frequently visited by Indians.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is extremely popular among Indians. Many foreign tourists are from India.
The country is filled with sandy beaches, waterfalls and palm trees so it is surprising that it remains on the sidelines for tourists from other countries.
Sri Lanka is home to a culture that is more than 2,000 years old and is filled with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Luxury hotels like the Cinnamon Lodge in Habarana are reasonably priced and offer stunning views of the tropical Habarana Lake and is in the centre of the cultural trio of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy.
The experience can be amplified by relaxing in a private jacuzzi while sipping on champagne.
The rural setting also offers five-star hotels surrounded by sites which give you an insight into Sri Lanka’s rich culture.
Both experiences are paired with the delicious seafood specialities which will leave you wanting more.
Sri Lanka is a place which offers you the best of both worlds and is a place that Indian tourists are taking advantage of.
Nepal
Indian lovers of scenic holidays tend to choose Nepal as a holiday destination especially since it is not far.
It mainly sits in the Himalayas and travellers to Nepal can see mesmerising Indian landscapes on all sides.
Those who enjoy trekking will love the landlocked country as it offers innumerable peaks to scale.
Attractions like Pashupatinath Temple and World Peace Stupa are regularly visited by locals and tourists.
People tend to visit Nepal to connect with their spiritual self.
Its capital, Kathmandu, is situated in a valley and is the centre of Nepal’s history, art, culture and economy.
With its awe-inspiring natural beauty and strong cultural appeal, Nepal promises to be an enjoyable experience and it is a reason why Indians love this holiday destination.
Bhutan
Bhutan may sound like an odd holiday destination but it is popular among Indian tourists as it offers a unique culture and tradition.
The country is surrounded by the Indian states of Assam, West Bengal and Arunachal Pradesh.
Bhutan has lots to offer. From stunning valleys to giant forts, Bhutan has a lot for tourists but at the same time, it is minimalist which is what sets it apart from other countries.
One of the highlights is Gangkhar Puensum which is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world at 7,570 metres.
Other places to visit include the sacred site Paro Taktsang and Punakha Dzong.
Bhutan is notable for implementing the concept of gross national happiness which is used to measure the collective happiness and well-being of the population.
The combination of friendly citizens, unpolluted air and delectable cuisine will ensure that you will have a great time.
Indonesia
Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific, Indonesia is a holiday destination that is enjoyed by Indians.
Indonesia is made up of over 16,000 islands that are filled with amazing corals, sandy beaches and bright blue waters.
Some of the activities you can enjoy include water sports and safari rides.
Bali and Lombok are two Indonesian islands which are popular holiday destinations.
Coupled with appealing weather, Bali is home to several sightseeing areas which include Kuta Beach.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a scenic, terraced hillside in Bali which offers rice paddies amid lush greenery. Ziplines and jungle swings are also enjoyed.
Sacred Monkey Forest is arguably one of the most peaceful places to go to as it is a home for monkeys, as the name suggests. Over 1,000 monkeys live in the sanctuary.
Many Indians travel to Indonesia and it can only get more popular.
Malaysia
Malaysia is a mixture of tranquillity and chaotic city life. It is a pairing which makes the country extremely popular among Indian tourists.
The nation is close to Singapore and has a lot in store for tourists.
From the dazzling city of Kuala Lumpur to the quiet Langkawi, Malaysia offers a range of opportunities at a budget-friendly price.
For lovers of the city, tourists can go on shopping sprees while trekking enthusiasts can enjoy nature walks.
There is even something for food lovers as they can go on street food tours.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia is the Petronas Twin Towers. Tourists can visit the skyscrapers after purchasing a ticket.
The Genting Highlands is also an enticing attraction albeit a more scenic one.
Situated northeast of Kuala Lumpur, the site comprises of hotels, a shopping centre and restaurants, surrounded by greenery and mountain views.
The Maldives
The Maldives is a popular holiday destination and is the perfect location for those who want to relax on the beach or lounge by the pool.
With its romantic vibes, it is no surprise that it is one of the best destinations for Indian honeymoon couples.
The island offers a multitude of water sports activities, pristine beaches and mouth-watering seafood.
Hearing about what is there to offer may sound too good to be true when thinking about the price.
In actual fact, holidaymakers can plan a trip to The Maldives with a Rs. 30,000 (£325) budget.
Tourists can enjoy a diving trip at Banana Reef. The dive site ranges from five to 30 metres so it is popular for both beginners and advanced divers.
Indians enjoy travelling to The Maldives but it is especially popular among newlyweds.
Cambodia
Cambodia may be a surprising option but it is the cheap accommodation options and even cheaper food which entices Indian holidaymakers.
Once a no-go zone for tourists, Cambodia has now become a hub for tourism, even appearing on some people’s bucket lists.
Tourists with all kinds of budget range find themselves heading to this stunning country.
Hotels in Cambodia tend to be located near major attractions which is one of the reasons why many visitors head to Cambodia.
One major attraction is the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park. Tourists must visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you can, try to visit the site at dawn so that you can watch the sunrise from behind the iconic temple.
Entry costs Rs. 1,095 (£11) for a full day, though paying Rs. 2,190 (£23) for three days works out better especially when you consider the sheer number of temples that are part of the compound.
Also, consider the fact that you will need time to sit in the shade as temperatures can hit 35°C and the humidity will only make it feel hotter.
This is a holiday destination which is ideal for those who enjoy exploring the culture of a foreign country.
These countries are much loved among Indian people and it is easy to see why.
Tourism is either already established or growing in these countries, meaning that they offer so much in terms of sightseeing locations and accommodation.
As many of them can be planned on a budget, they provide the ideal getaway destination for Indian tourists. So whenever, you’re thinking about a holiday, consider these destinations.