Visa policy relaxations across South-east Asia are driving a rise in outbound travel among Indian passport holders, according to data from Agoda.
Accommodation searches by Indian users between July and December 2024 for travel between January and May 2025 showed notable year-on-year increases in destinations offering eased entry.
Malaysia, which introduced visa-free entry for Indian citizens in 2023, saw a 47 per cent increase in searches. Langkawi recorded the largest spike at 118 per cent, followed by Kuala Lumpur (28 per cent) and the Highlands (27 per cent).
Palau, which recently lifted visa requirements for Indian travellers, saw a 49 per cent rise in interest.
The Philippines, which began offering visa-free access in April 2025, recorded a 26 per cent increase. Manila searches rose by 43 per cent, Palawan by 30 per cent, and Cebu by 25 per cent.
Sri Lanka reported a nine per cent increase following its visa waiver for Indian citizens. Search volumes rose significantly for Mirissa (31 per cent) and Nuwara Eliya (16 per cent).
The figures point to a correlation between simplified visa processes and travel interest from India.
Gaurav Malik, country director India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal at Agoda, commented: “The easing of visa restrictions across South-east 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, the Philippines and Sri Lanka, but also hidden gems like Palau… we’re excited to see where this heightened accessibility takes Indian tourists next.”
