Agoda: Thailand and Malaysia top visa-free choices for Indian travellers - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Digital travel platform Agoda identifies Thailand and Malaysia as the most sought-after visa-free international destinations among Indian travellers. Indonesia remains the leading choice among visa-on-arrival (VOA) markets. The findings are based on accommodation search patterns and point to rising interest in Asian destinations offering simplified entry requirements.

Visa accessibility shapes destination demand

Agoda analysed accommodation searches generated in India between 1 and 18 January 2026 for check-in periods spanning February and March 2026. The data indicates that travellers increasingly favour destinations combining uncomplicated entry policies with leisure and cultural appeal.

Among all visa-free and VOA destinations, Thailand ranked first, followed by Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Thailand and Indonesia maintain strong positions, supported by their mix of beaches, cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Malaysia continues to attract interest with its combination of urban experiences and nature-based tourism.

Sri Lanka records strong growth

Sri Lanka emerged as one of the fastest-growing destinations, registering a 61 percent increase in accommodation searches compared with the previous year. Agoda attributes this growth to geographic proximity and a broad spectrum of travel experiences.

The Maldives remains a consistent draw for Indian travellers, particularly among those seeking premium island holidays and short-haul luxury stays.

Emerging destinations gain visibility

Beyond the top five, several destinations recorded notable search growth. The Philippines ranked sixth, showing a 73 percent year-on-year increase, driven largely by demand for beach and adventure travel.

Kazakhstan and Bhutan also featured among the most searched destinations, reflecting growing curiosity for culturally distinctive and nature-focused experiences. Laos ranked tenth overall and recorded the strongest growth rate, with accommodation searches rising by 97 percent compared with last year.

Changing travel preferences

“Indian travellers are becoming increasingly intentional about their travel choices, with ease of visa accessibility playing a decisive role,” said Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda.

He noted that Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report showed that visa restrictions significantly influence travel frequency. According to the study, a large majority of Indian respondents indicated they would travel more often and explore new destinations if visa barriers were reduced.

Shift toward hassle-free international travel

The data underscores a broader shift in outbound travel behaviour. Indian travellers are demonstrating stronger interest in destinations that balance value, accessibility and experiential diversity. Visa-free and VOA markets across Asia continue to benefit from this trend.

Agoda currently offers access to more than six million accommodation listings worldwide, alongside extensive flight and activity options.

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