Agoda reports that the range of destinations for Indian passport holders is currently expanding thanks to the growing number of Southeast Asian nations relaxing their visa policies.
This shift is not only breaking down logistical barriers but also encouraging an increase in international travel, particularly to destinations that have recently simplified entry requirements.
Recent information from the online travel platform reveals that Indian travellers are responding enthusiastically to these changes.
Comparing accommodation searches made on Agoda between July to December 2024 for check-ins between January to May 2025, against the same timeframe a year earlier, Malaysia, Palau, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, all of whom have eased visa requirements, have seen a clear rise in interest.
Commenting on the trend, Agoda country director for India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal Gaurav Malik said: "The easing of visa restrictions across Southeast Asia is a welcome move that resonates strongly with Indian travellers. As barriers to entry fall, we're seeing a direct impact on travel interest and planning. This new era of accessibility is helping travellers discover not just tourist-favourites like Malaysia, Philippines and Sri Lanka but also hidden gems like Palau. Agoda remains committed to making travel seamless and affordable, and we're excited to see where this heightened accessibility takes Indian tourists next."
Where Indian travellers are headed
Malaysia, which introduced visa-free entry for Indian citizens in 2023, recorded a 47 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase in accommodation searches.
Cities like Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, and the Highlands have all seen a significant increase, indicating renewed enthusiasm for Malaysia's diverse travel offerings.
Similarly, the Pacific Island nation of Palau, despite being a lesser-known gem, witnessed a 49 percent increase in interest, alongside its recent announcement of visa-free entry for Indian passport holders.
The Philippines, a long-time favourite for sun-soaked escapes, also joined the club of visa-friendly destinations for Indians in April of this year.
Agoda observed an upward trend in accommodation searches among Indian travelers for the Philippines, contributing to a YoY increase of 26 percent, with Manila, Palawan, and Cebu among the top gainers.
Sri Lanka has also seen a nine percent overall YoY increase following the country's decision to grant visa-free access to Indian passport holders.
An increased interest in destinations like Mirissa and Nuwara Eliya suggests Indian tourists are eager to explore beyond familiar favorites such as Colombo and Kandy.
