Travel from India: Where Indians Go and Why

When people talk about travel from India, the movement of Indian citizens to destinations abroad for leisure, pilgrimage, or adventure. Also known as outbound tourism from India, it’s no longer just about honeymoon trips or visa runs—it’s a growing, diverse wave of travelers seeking experiences that match their interests, budgets, and cultural ties. In 2023, India ranked among the top 20 countries for international tourist departures, with millions choosing destinations not just for luxury, but for meaning.

What drives these trips? For many, it’s the Maldives, a top beach destination for Indian travelers due to its proximity, visa-free access, and all-inclusive resorts. Others head to Thailand, a budget-friendly hub with great flight deals and familiar food options. Then there’s the spiritual pull—Nepal, home to Mount Everest and sacred Hindu sites like Pashupatinath, where Indian pilgrims make up the largest group of visitors. Even places like Goa, though in India, often serve as a cultural bridge for travelers testing international vibes before crossing borders. These aren’t random choices. They’re shaped by cost, ease of travel, cultural comfort, and social media influence.

Indian travelers aren’t just chasing sun and sand. They’re exploring ancient temples in Cambodia, trekking the Himalayas in Bhutan, and diving into street food scenes in Malaysia. The rise of budget airlines, simplified visa processes, and travel influencers have opened doors that were once locked. You’ll find families from Punjab booking multi-week trips to Europe, students from Chennai heading to Australia for short courses, and retirees from Bangalore taking slow trains through Italy. What connects them? A hunger for something beyond the familiar.

Behind every trip is a story: a couple saving for years to see the Northern Lights, a group of friends choosing Bali over the Maldives because it’s cheaper and has better yoga retreats, or a solo traveler from Delhi finding peace in a monastery in Nepal. These aren’t just vacations—they’re personal milestones. And that’s what makes travel from India so rich. It’s not one type of journey. It’s hundreds of thousands of different reasons, routes, and revelations.

Below, you’ll find real guides from travelers who’ve been there—whether they’re asking if Indian tourists need a visa for Everest, wondering why flights to the Maldives cost so much, or comparing the vibe of Goa’s hippie spots to international alternatives. These aren’t theoretical tips. They’re lived experiences. And they’ll help you plan your next step, wherever that may be.