10 visa-free destinations for Indian citizens

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Indian travellers may rue the declining rupee but there are other perks to being an Indian citizen. Holders of Indian passports have visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to about 52 countries and territories around the world. At least 28 of these nations allow Indian passport holders to visit without a pre-issued visa. 

In many cases, an Indian citizen's country of residence determines the degree of access to other countries. Indian citizens holding permanent resident (Green Card) status in the United States do not require visas to visit Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean islands. Indians of particular professions with a residency in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are exempt from visas to enter the United Arab Emirates. Indian citizens do not, similarly, need a visa to enter Nepal or Bhutan.

Do note, however, that getting to some of these destinations might involve a significant air travel cost. Also bear in mind that visa-free access, though it may be permitted, is not necessarily a right. Permission to enter a country is granted subject to the decision of border and immigration officers. Visiting for reasons other than tourism may require a pre-issued visa.

1. BHUTAN

Bhutan, the happiest little nation in the world, is among the most sought-after Himalayan destinations for tourists but the Himalayan mountain kingdom is very conservative when it comes to tourism. Travel writer Pico Iyer mentioned it in his book, Falling off the Map, as one of the world's remotest places. Until recently, Bhutan restricted tourist numbers. Though that has changed, the country still requires foreign tourists to pay for their entire holiday in advance and travel on a pre-issued tourist visa. Flying into Bhutan's solitary airport at Paro is possible only through the national carrier Druk Air, which operates flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok and Yangon. 

2. BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Most Indians need to look up the British Virgin Islands on a map. They lie in the Caribbean Sea, and include over 60 islands and keys, of which about 43 are uninhabited. Indian citizens are granted a 31-day visa-free stay in the British Virgin Islands for tourism purposes. One of the best ways to visit the islands is by cruise ship, as many cruises operate from the United States to the nearby US Virgin Islands. There are no direct flights between India and the British Virgin Islands.

3. COOK ISLANDS

The Cook Islands lie in Polynesia, off the coast of New Zealand. They are named after Captain James Cook, who discovered them for the western world in 1770. Since 1965, the islands have been self-governed with free association to the government of New Zealand, which controls the islands' defence, foreign affairs (including passport control) and currency. Immigration is strictly controlled. Indian citizens are allowed to stay for up to 200 days without a visa, but must show proof of reserved accommodation and are not exempt from paying the departure tax of NZ$55 for adults and NZ$15 for children. Rarotonga International Airport, the main port of entry to the Cook Islands, is connected to Auckland via daily flights and weekly flights from Sydney, Fiji and Los Angeles.

4. DOMINICA

Not to be confused with the Caribbean nation known as the Dominican Republic, the island of Dominica was the last of the Caribbean islands to be colonized by the British. It has beautiful hiking trails, rainforests and beaches with great opportunities for snorkelling. Indian citizens are allowed to stay for 22 months without a visa. Approximate cost of round trip flight: INR 2,00,000 (via Paris and Saint Maarten)

5. EL SALVADOR

El Salvador, the most densely populated country in Central America, lies between Guatemala and the Honduras. Volcanoes, mountains and cloud forests offer plenty of nature discovery and hiking opportunities. Old colonial towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites beckon heritage tourists. Indian nationals are permitted to stay for a maximum of three months without a visa. Approximate cost of round trip flight: INR 1,44,000 (via Paris and Miami)

6. GRENADA

The beautiful Caribbean islands of Grenada offer much to tourists in the form of beaches, waterfalls, historic forts and spice gardens. Indian tourists can travel visa-free in Grenada for up to 90, but must show proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of their travel.Approximate cost of round trip flight: INR 1.60,000 (via London and Miami)

7. HAITI

Haiti is off the travel map for most tourists owing to the devastation left by the 2010 earthquake. One of the poorest countries in the Western hemisphere, its current political situation and concerns over the safety of tourists has prompted many countries to issue strict travel advisories. That said, Indian tourists are welcome without a visa for a maximum stay of three months.Approximate cost of round trip flight: INR 1,52,000 (via Dubai and New York)

8. JAMAICA

Jamaica is the most populous of the English-speaking Caribbean countries and its easygoing culture, cuisine and music, besides its many beaches, are attractive to tourists. Indian tourists can stay without a visa on producing a passport valid for six months and sufficient proof of funds and onward travel. Approximate cost of round trip flight: 1,53,000 (via Dubai and New York/ Toronto)

9. MONTSERRAT 

Not to be confused with the Spanish region of the same name, Montserrat is an island in the Caribbean southeast of Puerto Rico and once a popular resort. Since 1989, hurricanes and volcanic eruptions forced its closure but the island is slowly limping back. Indian citizens must show proof of citizenship but can travel visa-free on furnishing proof of onward travel and adequate funds. Approximate cost of round trip flight: 1,30,000 (to Antigua, via London) and a 15-minute air-hop from Antigua to Montserrat (about INR 5,000)

10. MICRONESIA 

The far-flung Federated States of Micronesia are a group of 607 islands in the Western Pacific Ocean, comprising the states of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae. It is considered one of the most remote and beautiful places in the world, with pristine coral reefs, quaint cultures, exotic food and picturesque islands. Indian citizens can travel visa-free for 30 days upon producing proof of sufficient funds, onward travel and accommodation. Approximate cost of round trip flight: 2,04,000 (via Hong Kong, Guam and Truk) 

all content from:- yahoo.com 

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Sydney’s Top Tourist Attractions

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Millions of visitors descend on Australia’s capital of tourism every year, and with plenty of fantastic attractions, it’s not hard to see why Sydney is one of the world’s most visited cities. Whatever your budget or taste, there’s plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained, so whether you’re travelling on a shoestring or enjoying a truly lavish getaway, be sure to check out our picks of Sydney’s top tourist attractions.

Sydney Opera House

Undeniably one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera house is a must-see for any tourist. This World Heritage site offers magnificent views of Sydney Harbour and its excellent location near the popular Botanic Gardens make it the perfect place to explore with the family. If you don’t fancy parting with your cash to see one of the popular shows inside, a walk around the outside of the Opera House is completely free.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Known locally as ‘the Coathanger’, The Harbour Bridge is another of Australia’s iconic landmarks and it’s perfect for anyone exploring on a budget. You can walk over the bridge for free as well as visiting the Pylon Lookout for some spectacular views.

Sydney Harbour

It would be a real crime to be in Sydney and not pay a visit to the Harbour which doubles up as a National Park. Known as one of the most stunning harbours in the world, there’s plenty to see and do here that will keep the whole family entertained. Ride the inexpensive ferry to Manly, Taronga Zoo or Watsons Bay or just enjoy exploring. You’ll also find a 16 mile Harbour Walk where you’ll be able to see some of the city’s best attractions without spending a cent.

City Centre                         

It’s easy to spend a whole day at the City Centre which is home to The Art Gallery of NSW, the Museum of Sydney, St Mary’s Cathedral, Town hall, State Theatre, the Strand Arcade, Martin Place, Sydney Westfield and the Queen Victoria Building to name but a few. Nearby you’ll also find Hyde Park, the Hyde Park Barracks, the Anzac Memorial, the Australian Museum and the highly recommended Macquarie Street precinct.

Darling Harbour

No visit to Sydney would be complete without a visit here as there’s so much to do for kids and adults alike. Free attractions for kids are available every day at the Australian Maritime Museum and you’ll find a whole host of attractions nearby including the Powerhouse Museum, Pyrmont bridge, Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Paddys Market and Sydney Wildlife World. If you fancy a flutter, be sure to visit the Star City Casino complex or just check out some of the area’s hip Japanese and Korean boutiques and sample some delicious cooking in Chinatown.

If the sound of that is making you want to jet off right now, you can find a great deal on your flight to Sydney at cheapflights.com.au .

The Rocks and Circular Quay

Situated on the harbour, this scenic area is home to a number of galleries, historic houses, the ferry wharf, boutiques, restaurants and an observatory. The area can be seen on foot in just one full day and highlights include the Museum of Contemporary Art and the weekend Rocks Market.

content Source:-http://www.travelycia.com/sydneys-top-tourist-attractions/

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Top Tourist Places In India For Summer

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1. LADAKH

I cannot think of any place on earth that can be more breathtaking, challenging and fascinating than Ladakh. There is beauty in its barrenness. The colours are stark. The Indus River beckons you, curving along the path, taking you to lands forgotten. Clothed in snow, the mountains encircle you as you climb the steps to monasteries perched precariously on cliffs. Watch the lakes change colour every minute as you drive through the land of high passes, and feel humbled in the barren landscape. My favourite is Pangong Tso, although Tso Moriri comes a close second. If you are up to it, cycle or hike up to Khardung La or lose yourself in the colours of the Nubra Valley.

2. DIRANG

An obscure little hill station, Dirang is located in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India. Quiet and sleepy, the town is my favourite stopover en route to Tawang. Walk around and you will find houses huddled along the banks of a small stream. You could drive up to see ancient monasteries or visit the ruins of the 17th century fort.

3. NAINITAL

It may be crowded and filled with loud tourists but my vote goes for Nainital. The Himalayas circle you and, on a clear day, you can see the peaks of Nanda Devi and Trishul if you take the cable car up to the Snow View. The colonial atmosphere takes you to the days of the Raj, but Nainital also has its bit of mythical influences. Be it the grace of the Goddess Naini Devi who gives the town its name or the eye-shaped lake, Nainital is both mystical and magical.

4. MASHOBRA 

Barely a few kilometres away from Shimla, Mashobra is an escape from the touristy capital. Wake up to a Himalayan sunrise, do a bit of birding, admire the contours of the mountains, drive up to Chail to see the palace or just lose yourself in the verdant forests around – Mashobra is an ideal getaway to beat the heat.

5. SIKKIM

Imagine sitting outside your little homestay , sipping chai and losing yourself in a misty sky and then all of a sudden, the mist parts ways just to give you that little glimpse , for a few seconds of the mighty Kanchenjunga. That is Sikkim for you. You will be walking up a knoll and suddenly you see an old monastery. I prefer Pelling to Gangtok as it is quieter and offers better views of the mountain. And while you are there, visit Yuksom, the old capital of the state. Tsango Lake and Nathu La can be visited from Gangtok but if you want to visit Gurudogmor Lake, give yourself a few more days to travel up north.

6. KODAIKANAL

Call it the Gift of the Forests or the Princess of the Hill Stations, Kodaikanal is nestled high up in the Western Ghats. Dense shola forests, grasslands, tall eucalyptus groves – Kodaikanal is drenched in fog and mist most of the time. Caves, hidden waterfalls, lakes tucked away inside lush forests – Kodaikanal is indeed nature’s own destination.

7. COORG

They don’t call it the Scotland of the East for nothing. The fabric of green is only interrupted by waterfalls, rivers and streams. The mist comes calling – be it at Talacauvery where the River Cauvery has its origins or at Raja’s Seat in Madikeri, which offers some spectacular views. The Western Ghats are covered with forests, while coffee and spice plantations fill their slopes. If you haven’t been to Coorg, then you surely have no idea what bliss is.

8. MUNNAR

Located at the confluence of the three rivers on the Western Ghats in Kerala is Munnar. Wrapped in a fabric of tea plantations, Munnar is a biodiversity hot spot surrounded by wildlife sanctuaries, although its habitat is now fragmented. If you are a wildlife enthusiast or a birder or just a pantheist, Munnar is the place for you.

source:-yahoo.com

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