Top 5 Visa-Free Destinations To Celebrate Diwali Outside India

Diwali is among the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India and across the world. Known as the 'festival of lights', it symbolises the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness—a time of joy, renewal, and togetherness. While many choose to celebrate it the traditional way, this year’s long weekend offers the perfect excuse to take the festivities beyond borders.

As of 2025, Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 countries and territories, ranking 77th globally on the Henley Passport Index. Out of these, 26 reportedly offer visa-free entry, while 47 extend visa-on-arrival privileges. Keeping that in mind, we’ve handpicked five of the best visa-free destinations you can travel to this Diwali—whether you’re craving beaches, mountains, or a cultural escape.

Thailand

For Indian travellers, Thailand remains one of the most accessible and welcoming destinations in the world. With its ancient temples, floating markets, and sun-drenched beaches, Thailand offers a diverse range of attractions. Indians can make the most of visa-free entry for up to 60 days, making it an effortless getaway. Whether you’re celebrating Diwali under the lantern-lit skies of Chiang Mai or by the turquoise waters of Krabi, Thailand offers the perfect mix of culture, comfort, and adventure.

• Visa rule: Visa-free entry for Indians for up to 60 days.

• How to get there: Direct flights from multiple Indian cities; the main airports in Thailand are Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, along with major international hubs like Phuket International Airport (HKT) and Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

What You Need

• A valid Indian passport with a minimum of six months validity and two blank pages 

• Confirmed return/onward flight ticket 

• A completed Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) form 

• Proof of accommodation 

• Proof of sufficient funds 

• Two recent passport-size photos

Bhutan

Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan welcomes Indian travellers without a visa, though a travel (entry) permit is required. It’s a land where Gross National Happiness is more than just a phrase—a place to slow down, reflect, and connect. What makes Bhutan the ideal getaway during Diwali is its breathtaking Himalayan scenery, rich Buddhist culture with numerous monasteries, and traditional festivals like the Tshechu. It boasts being the world's only carbon-negative country, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental conservation. Visitors can also explore important sites like the Tiger's Nest monastery and immerse themselves in the local celebration of Tihar, also known as Diwali, especially where there are Hindu populations.

• Visa rule: Visa-free entry for Indian travellers, though an Entry Permit needs to be obtained upon arrival 

• How to get there: Direct flights are available from multiple Indian cities. The only international airport in Bhutan is the Paro International Airport.

What You Need

• A valid passport with six months validity or Voter ID card 

• Two passport size photographs 

• Travel insurance 

• Your hotel reservation or itinerary 

• A receipt for the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is INR 1,200 per person

Mauritius

From being culturally familiar to having convenient travel policies, Mauritius remains a tropical paradise for Indian travellers—and an especially inviting destination during Diwali. The festival, known locally as Divali, is a public holiday celebrated across the island with lamps, sweets, and community gatherings that reflect its deep Indian heritage. Nearly 70 per cent of the Mauritian population has Indian roots, making the celebrations feel warmly familiar yet distinct in their island flair. With visa-free entry for up to 90 days, pleasant tropical weather in October–November, and stunning beaches, lagoons, and cultural experiences to explore, Mauritius is one of the best Diwali getaways for Indians—a place where the festival of lights meets the glow of the Indian Ocean.

• Visa rule: Visa on arrival at no cost for stays up to 60 days 

• How to get there: Direct flights are available from major Indian cities. The main airport in Mauritius is the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU).

What You Need

• A valid passport with six months validity 

• Proof of accommodation; hotel reservation 

• Confirmed return or onward tickets 

• Proof of sufficient funds 

• Two recent passport size photographs 

• Travel insurance 

• Financial proof like bank statements

Malaysia

If you’re looking for a home away from home this Diwali, Malaysia makes for a perfect festive destination. With visa-free entry for Indian travellers, the country offers easy accessibility and a vibrant cultural familiarity. Home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in Southeast Asia, Malaysia celebrates Diwali, or Deepavali, with great enthusiasm, especially in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, where streets glow with lights, sweets, and temple festivities. A must-visit during this time is the iconic Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur—a limestone hill with Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Murugan, illuminated beautifully during the festival. Beyond the celebrations, Malaysia’s lush rainforests, tropical islands, and diverse street food scene make it an ideal mix of spirituality, comfort, and exploration.

• Visa rule: Visa-free entry for short tourist or business stays up to 30 days 

• How to get there: Direct flights are available from major Indian cities. Three significant airports in Malaysia are Senai International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport and the busiest one, Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

What You Need

• A valid passport with six months validity 

• A completed online form submitted at least three days before arrival 

• Proof of confirmed return or onward travel ticket 

• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay 

• Hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation if staying with friends/family

The Philippines

If you’re looking for a visa-free Diwali getaway, the Philippines stands out as one of the most accessible and exciting destinations for Indian travellers. With visa-free entry for short stays, it’s an easy escape into a world of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and warm island hospitality. Whether it’s island-hopping in Palawan, diving in Cebu, or soaking in the urban buzz of Manila, the Philippines offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. While Diwali isn’t traditionally celebrated here, the country’s welcoming spirit and vibrant nightlife make it a wonderful place to mark the festive season in your own unique way—perhaps with a beach bonfire, a sunset cruise, or a candle-lit dinner by the sea.

• Visa rule: Visa-free entry to Indian travellers for a non-extendible and non-convertible period of 14 days 

• How to get there: Direct flights are available from major Indian cities. The main international airports in the Philippines are Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), Clark International Airport (CRK), and Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) in Davao.

What You Need

• A valid passport with six months validity 

• Confirmed hotel accommodation/booking 

• Proof of financial capacity 

• Return or onward ticket to the next country of destination

FAQs

1. Which countries can Indians visit visa-free in 2025? 

As of 2025, Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to over 25 countries, including Thailand, Bhutan, Mauritius, Malaysia, and the Philippines. 

2. How long can Indian travellers stay in Thailand visa-free? 

Indians can stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. 

 3. Is Bhutan visa-free for Indian travellers? 

Yes. Indians do not need a visa for Bhutan but must obtain an entry permit upon arrival and pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). 

 4. Is Mauritius visa-free for Indians? 

Yes. Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival in Mauritius for up to 60 days, free of cost. 

 5. What documents do Indians need for visa-free travel? 

Travellers must carry a valid passport, proof of return tickets, accommodation details, and sufficient funds to cover their stay.