When the colours of Holi begin to fill the air and the calendar begins to tease you with a long weekend, the travel itch becomes almost impossible to ignore.
However, between rising airfares and peak-season hotel prices, international trips seem like a distant dream. But what if we told you that a round-trip ticket under Rs 25,000 is still very much possible, and that too to stunning international destinations which are just a few hours away from India? Okay, think of it like this: Celebrating Holi one day and waking up by the turquoise waters the next day. From tropical escapes, which are perfect for a quick reset to culturally rich neighbours that feel both familiar and fascinating, these are the destinations that deliver big on experience without demanding a big budget.
Nepal
- Price: Delhi-Kathmandu flights from Rs 13,322
- Mumbai-Kathmandu flights from Rs 24,566
- Bengaluru-Kathmandu flights from Rs 23,354
Visa: Visa-free entry for Indians
Nestled between the towering Himalayas and the lush jungles of the Terai, Nepal is a country of contrasts with ancient temples and bustling bazaars standing tall with serene lakes and the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. Whether you're a trekker looking to conquer the Annapurna Circuit or a culture lover chasing pagodas in Kathmandu - Nepal will consume you in ways you never expected.
Thailand
- Price: Delhi-Bangkok flights from Rs 23,220
- Mumbai-Bangkok flights from Rs 21,844
- Bengaluru-Bangkok flights from Rs 20,696
Visa: Visa-free entry for Indians
Thailand boasts a plethora of experiences for every type of traveller. From the turquoise waters and pristine beaches of Phuket and Krabi to the bustling streets and historical temples of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand offers something for everyone. You can immerse yourself in Thailand's rich cultural heritage by visiting magnificent temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, witnessing traditional dance performances, or exploring vibrant local markets. There are adventure activities for adrenaline chasers as well, such as hiking, snorkelling, kayaking and deep sea diving.
Oman
- Price: Delhi-Muscat flights from Rs 24,990
- Mumbai-Muscat flights from Rs 15,289
- Bengaluru-Muscat flights from Rs 21,829
March in Oman is like a well-kept secret. It is sunny but not searing, warm without tipping into summer's extremes. It is the month to trace the curves of the Hajar Mountains. The grand arches of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque glow softly in the gentler light. This is also prime time for desert nights in the Wahiba Sand. Along the coast, you can see turtles lingering at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. And if you are craving cooler air, the high-altitude plateaus of Jebel Akhdar begin to hint at rose season.
