Without Passport Visiting Countries from India in 2025 Guide

The issue of traveling to without passport visiting countries from India is a subject that constantly puzzles travelers when they are in India. Much is written in blogs and videos that such countries are 40+, but the reality is much easier. By January 2025, only Nepal and Bhutan will officially accept Indian citizens without a passport. These countries remain passport-free destinations amongst Indians, with special bilateral arrangements accepting other IDs such as voter ID and Aadhaar as alternatives.

Latest Countries to Visit Without Passport from India: The Real List

Countries to visit without passport from India in the year 2025 has only two spots: Nepal and Bhutan. All these Himalayan neighbours have special bilateral agreements with India that are long-term and normalise the movement of their citizens across the border through alternative identification, like that of a valid voter ID, Aadhaar card (in certain instances), or other identifications provided by the government, instead of a passport, and hence no passport is required. This special relationship can be based on several decades of cultural, economic, and political relationships, which promote free movement for tourism, trade, and visiting family members.

What all countries to visit without passport from India? Numerous online materials indicate that Indians can go to dozens of passport-free destinations, but mostly, this information is deceptive. Most of the time, these destinations involve visa-free countries- there is no need to obtain a visa, but one still must carry a valid passport to enter. Being familiar with this difference is vital to avoid confusion, not struggle with the travel process, and not get into unneeded trouble at foreign borders.

Nepal - The Himalayan Adventure

Without passport visiting countries from India includes Nepal:

Entry Requirements:

• Election Commission issued photo ID (Voter ID, original colored, laminated card is preferable).

• OR a valid Indian passport (handy should you want to extend your stay to a third country).

• Duration: Indian citizens are permitted no official time limit. There is no need to leave after a specific period because you can stay as long as you want. However, if you plan to stay longer, the local Indian Embassy in Kathmandu recommends that you be registered.

Border Crossings:

• By Road: Sunauli, Raxaul, Jogbani, and Banbasa are major entry points worth noting. They are meticulously linked to cities of India through buses and trains.

• If you come by Air: Flights can be taken directly to Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) from major Indian cities and Delhi.

Key Attractions:

• Durbar Square, Kathmandu, is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of historical palaces and temples.

• The Phewa Lake in Pokhara is ideal for boating, mountain appreciation, and adventure sports.

• Lumbini is a spiritual and peaceful place. It is the birthplace of Buddha.

• Everest Base Camp treks- One of the bucket-list experiences of trekkers all across the globe.

Travel Tips for Without Passport Visiting Countries from India: 

• Indian currency is accepted worldwide, specifically the INR 100 note.

• Do not take 500 and 2000 rupee notes as they can be limited.

• Indians can enter without a visa: have your voter ID/passport ready.

• Always carry photocopies of your passports when getting into hotels and movement permits in restricted areas.

Bhutan - The Land of Happiness

The information of without passport visiting countries from India for Bhutan is:

Entry Requirements:

• Admissible on entry are an Indian voter ID, an Aadhaar card, and a valid passport.

• Aadhaar is only acceptable when one enters through particular authorised entry points, like Phuentsholing.

• Carry your voter ID (if possible), since it is most accepted and hassle-free.

Duration:

• Indians are not limited on how long they can stay in Bhutan.

• There is; however, a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) paid each night of your stay, which is meant to help Bhutan in its ecotourism and infrastructural development.

Entry Points for without Passport Visiting Countries from India: 

• Phuentsholing: The Western side entry point to the mainland is most suitable for people travelling by road.

• Paro Airport: A Single international airport in Bhutan, served by direct flights arriving in Indian cities of Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.

Cultural Experiences:

• Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), eight hundred years old, is the most recognisable Bhutanese sight, fighting adversity and doing so spectacularly, as it is built on a cliff.

• Local festivals ( tshes chu )-Go wild is a wealthy source of traditional dances, colourful masks, and blessings.

• Punakha Dzong is an exquisite castle and former Bhutan capital with rivers and green scenery.

Travel Tips for Without Passport Visiting Countries from India: 

• SDF Indians: Rs. 1,200≥ per night (last update in 2025).

• Reservations should be made early in the hotels at both Paro and Thimphu, particularly during festivals where hotels get booked fast.

• It is also important to dress decently as one goes to see monasteries and dzongs, and remember to take off footwear before visiting the religious rooms.

• Take some Bhutanese Ngultrum or low denominations of Indian currency to buy goods in rural areas.

Current Essential Documents for Passport-Free Travel from India in 2025

Carrying the correct identification is essential when without passport visiting countries from India. Immigration officers at border checkpoints and airports will carefully verify your documents before granting entry. While you don't need a passport to enter Nepal or Bhutan, you must still present a valid, government-issued ID to confirm your nationality and age. Carrying the proper paperwork ensures a smooth entry process, prevents delays, and makes other aspects of travel easier—such as hotel check-ins, obtaining local permits, or accessing emergency services. Always carry originals and keep photocopies or digital scans as backup for security and convenience.

Also Read: Normal vs Tatkal Passport: Fees, Diff & Time Guide

Accepted Identity Documents

Remember to take one of the following documents, which are recognised identity cards, to have a pleasant and trouble-free without passport visiting countries from India. All these are official entry documents in Nepal and Bhutan, and in some cases, they are needed for hotel check-ins or permits in the country.

• Indian Voter ID: This is issued by the Election Commission of India as the most preferred document to travel passport-free. Carry the original laminated card to be verified easily.

• Aadhaar Card: This card will be accepted at the entry points into Bhutan and only at select entry points. A digital copy should not represent the new government-issued physical card.

• School/ College ID: Minors must be accompanied by a proper birth certificate when verifying age and identity.

• Birth Certificate: They must present a Birth Certificate as a requirement; a Birth Certificate is mandatory for children under 15. It should be either an original or a government-certified copy in English or have an official translation.

Document Requirements by Age Group

The documents should be relevant for the respective age groups to facilitate free movement without passport visiting countries from India. Always carry original documents and photocopies to check in at the hotel or local permit.

1. Children who are Below 15 Years:

• Birth Certificate: This is the crucial document issued by government agencies to verify age.

• Photo ID: School photo ID will help identify and be used with the birth certificate.

• Adults (15 65 years):

• Voter ID: This is the primary identification card used by Indian citizens who travel without passports.

• Passport- not necessary but advisable, whether you intend to travel further or take an international flight to/from Nepal or Bhutan.

2. Adults Older than 65 Years:

• Voter ID: This is the most popular and preferred.

• Aadhaar Card: Can be deployed as an alternative or substitute in Bhutan, specifically at specific entry points.

Common Misconceptions About Passport-Free Countries in 2025

Many travelers from India come with the misconception that Indians can travel to dozens of without passport visiting countries from India. This is not the case and can lead to confusion or travel inconveniences.

• Visa-free does not equate to passport-free. Just because a country is visa-free does not imply that one can get in without a passport. Your identity and nationality must be confirmed with a valid passport.

• Nepal and Bhutan are the only two truly passport-free countries for Indian citizens. Such nationals have a special bilateral agreement to enter with an alternative ID card, such as a voter or Aadhaar card.

• Destinations like Thailand, the Maldives, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka might permit Indians to enter without a visa. Still, without a valid passport, going anywhere would not be easy.

This difference is essential to understand to avoid travel problems, delays at customs entries, or rejected access. It is always suggested that you consider the latest travel advisories before visiting the without passport visiting countries from India.

Also Read: Where to Find Passport Book Number on an Indian Passport?

Latest Step-by-Step Travel Guide for Nepal and Bhutan for Indians in 2025

Planning your without passport visiting countries from India is simple once you understand the proper steps. From preparing the correct documents to crossing the border smoothly, having a clear and organised plan ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from transportation options, accommodation booking, and local customs, to insider tips on exploring Nepal and Bhutan like a seasoned traveller. These steps will help you save time, avoid unnecessary stress, and maximise your journey. Whether trekking in the Himalayas, exploring cultural landmarks, or enjoying local cuisine, being well-prepared allows you to experience these Himalayan neighbours fully and safely.

Planning Your Nepal Trip from India

Going on vacation to Nepal, one of the few without passport visiting countries from India is easy as long as you have a plan. And here is how an easy trip can be achieved:

Border Crossing:

• Via Road: Bring an ID card/ voter identification/ Aadhaar card. Personal effects such as luggage, clothing, or even electronics do not attract a customs hassle. It is straightforward; take a copy of your ID with you.

• Air: Your voter ID or passport is required at the immigration counter inside the Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). Be sure that you have valid documents and carry originals.

Transportation:

• Buses: Low-cost bus services operate between Indian cities such as Gorakhpur and Siliguri and Indian border towns such as Sunauli and Raxaul. Long distances have sleeper buses.

• Taxi Cabs: Most towns bordering the country have taxis and shared taxi cabs, which are convenient to reach in cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Chitwan.

Accommodation Booking:

• Budget accommodation can be booked using local booking applications or websites in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and regional towns.

• Their walk-in bookings are also available, particularly in the small towns, although the peak season or festivals might only be booked in advance.

Currency & Payments for Without Passport Visiting Countries from India:

• Some denominations of Indian Rupees (INR) are used commonly, the smaller ones in particular (10, 20, 50, 100).

• It is better not to have massive 500 and 2000 rupee notes since not all stores or transportation service providers can accept them.

Planning Your Bhutan Trip from India

It is hard to forget Bhutan, one of without passport visiting countries from India. An enjoyable trip is achieved by proper preparation. This is how to go about it:

The Procedure of Acquiring an Entry Permit:

• Get your entry permit at Phuentsholing (road entry point in West Bengal) or at Paro Airport (flights bring you in Indian cities).

• You should have your voter ID, Aadhaar card, or passport, and the cards should be verified.

• The permit is essential for all travellers, including Indians, to enter towns on the other side of the border.

Investment Law (4/91): Sustainable Development Fee (SDF):

• Indian citizens must pay an SDF of 1,200 rupees per night (2025).

• The amount helps foster Bhutan ecotourism activities and sustainable development projects in Bhutan.

• You can pay at the entrance points or via your booking agent/hotel.

Guided Tours for Without Passport Visiting Countries from India: 

• In cultural areas and monasteries, it is advisable to use guided tours as well as trekking routes.

• Tour guides can give historical information, maintain the etiquette, and direct people through hard-to-reach places.

Cultural Etiquette:

• Wear decent clothes when visiting monasteries, dzongs, and temples. The long sleeves and long legs should be favoured.

• When in a religious building, remove shoes.

• Do not act in disrespect when it comes to festivals, taking photographs, or during religious ceremonies.

Travel Tips for Without Passport Visiting Countries from India: 

• Make reservations for bookings in Paro and Thimphu, particularly on dates when Tshechu festivals are in process.

• It can be carried to make local purchases in rural areas in small notes of Indian rupees or Bhutanese Ngultrum.

• Have copies of entry permits and IDs when checking the hotels or trekking permits.

Also Read: Passport Types in India: Expert's Latest Guide

Why Other Countries Require Passports Despite Visa-Free Entry in 2025?

Although a country may be without a visa requirement, international regulations require a valid travel document, often a passport, to prove identity and nationality. A passport is a universally accepted means of identification that guarantees safety and appropriate documentation at borders.

This is why most of the destinations still require passports and are not included without passport visiting countries from India: 

• Nationality Verification: Visa-free entry does not exempt those countries from granting you entry, but the entry requirements will have your nationality verified by those countries.

• International Law Observance: Because of international law, borders are governed by international law, and a country must keep adequate records of visiting foreigners.

• Narrow Exceptions: Other forms of ID, such as the Indian voter ID or Aadhaar card, will be accepted on special bilateral agreements only, i.e., India-Nepal, India-Bhutan. Other places where Indians can legally enter without a passport do not exist.

• Visit to Third Countries: If you intend to travel to third-world countries further after your initial visa-free location, you will require a valid passport.

This difference helps avoid confusion in travel and guarantees a comfortable crossing of the international border.

Current Travel Tips and Safety Guidelines for Visiting Countries Without a Passport from India

When visiting without passport visiting countries from India, following the practical safety and preparation tips is essential for a smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable trip. Even though travel is simpler without a passport, being well-prepared with the correct documents, health precautions, and local knowledge can prevent unexpected issues and delays at border crossings or during your stay. This guide covers everything from pre-travel planning, health and insurance considerations, to on-ground safety measures, ensuring you can travel confidently. By following these tips, you can focus on exploring Nepal and Bhutan's beauty, culture, and adventure while staying safe and prepared throughout your journey.

Also Read: How to Change Passport Appointment Date? Experts Guide

Pre-Travel Preparation

Visiting without passport visiting countries from India is a good idea, but preparation is necessary before visiting the country. With good preparation comes easy entry, less stress, and a safe enjoyment of your trip.

• Verify Document Authentication: Ensure that your voter identification card, Aadhar card, or passport (where applicable) is valid and current. Out-of-date IDs or those in bad condition may cause difficulty at the checkpoints.

• Maintain Photocopies and Digital Scans: Have several physical copies of your documents in photocopies, and have digital copies on your phone and in cloud storage. This may aid in incidents of loss or theft.

• Purchase Travel Insurance: However, Nepal and Bhutan are relatively safe, it is advisable to get some form of insurance to cover emergencies, trip cancellations, or any other unforeseen event.

On-Ground Safety Tips

Travelling without passport, visiting countries from India, it is essential to note the local culture, be alert and ready, and enjoy a safe trip. Knowing the cultural customs and being prepared with emergency contacts will allow you to make it through any awkward circumstances with smooth sailing.

• Show Locals Respect: Cover up in religious places, observe temple culture, respect social customs and traditions.

• Try to Avoid Politics: It is a sensitive topic in local politics. It is good to be neutral and polite to prevent misunderstanding.

• On Hand Emergency Contacts: You never know when you will need emergency contacts:

• Indian Embassy in Kathmandu: To get help in Nepal.

• Indian Embassy in Thimphu: When in need in Bhutan.

• Other: Keep your local SIM or international roaming, carry low denominations in cash, and be aware when walking through congested places.

Latest Alternative Options: Visa-Free Countries Requiring Passports for Indians

If you're willing to carry a valid Indian passport, there are several popular visa-free destinations that Indian travellers can explore. While these countries still require a passport for entry, and do not allow entry without a passport from India, they waive the visa requirement, making short trips easier and more convenient. These destinations offer diverse experiences—from tropical beaches and vibrant cities to cultural landmarks and adventure tourism. Knowing which countries allow visa-free access with a passport can help you plan your next international getaway efficiently and avoid unnecessary visa applications.

Also Read: How to Change Passport Appointment Date? Experts Guide

Latest Facts and News

• Breaking: As of January 2025, only Nepal and Bhutan officially allow Indian citizens to travel without a passport

• Recent Update: Kenya introduced visa-free travel for Indians in January 2024, but it still requires a valid passport

• Important Clarification: Many websites incorrectly list 40+ countries as "passport-free" - these are visa-free destinations that still require passports

• Travel Alert: Sri Lanka extended visa-free entry for Indians to 6 months in October 2024, but a passport is mandatory

• Document Update: Indian Election Commission voter ID remains the primary alternative to a passport for travel to Nepal and Bhutan.

Conclusion

In 2025, there are only two countries, Nepal and Bhutan, which are without passport visiting countries from India. These are the most appropriate destinations when travelling abroad in a budget-friendly and hassle-free way. Take the proper documents, adhere to the rules of entering the country, and make travelling to the Himalayan neighbours pleasant and stress-free.

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