Which Country Is Most Friendly to Indians? Top Picks for Cultural Tourism

It always feels good to know you’ll get a warm smile the moment you step off the plane — and as an Indian traveler or expat, it’s smart to figure out which countries actually roll out the welcome mat. Not every place does! If you’ve ever worried about language barriers, food struggles, or even those awkward looks at immigration, you’re not alone. Some countries just get it: they make things easy for Indians, from simple visa processes to street signs in Hindi or veggie food everywhere.

I remember my own scramble at a foreign airport, hunting for a familiar snack after a long flight. It turns out, some places just know how to make you feel at home (sometimes too much — think Bollywood blaring in a distant café). So if you’re planning your next big adventure or looking for a spot to settle for a while, it helps to know where Indians are treated not just as tourists, but as honorary locals. And no, it’s not just about curry on the menu or cricket on TV — although those things help!

• What Makes a Country 'Friendly' to Indians?
• Top Travel-Friendly Destinations for Indians
• Asian Hotspots: Where Tradition Meets Hospitality
• Western Countries That Embrace Indian Culture
• Surprisingly Welcoming Destinations
• Tips to Make the Most of Your Friendly Visit

What Makes a Country 'Friendly' to Indians?

When you hear about a country being 'friendly' to Indian tourists or expats, it isn’t just marketing fluff. There are some real, practical things that make daily life and travel smoother for Indians abroad. A big one? The visa game. Places like Thailand or the UAE don't make you jump through endless hoops — they offer simple online processes, visa-on-arrival, or easy paperwork. That means less stress before your trip even starts.

Food is another dealbreaker. A country that truly welcomes Indian travelers is loaded with restaurants serving up authentic veggie and spicy food (bonus points for Bollywood music in the background). The UK and Singapore, for example, have a mind-blowing variety of Indian eateries and even support Indian festivals on a city-wide scale. It’s not the same everywhere—Lucy still jokes about my grumpy mood in countries with zero Indian restaurants.

Let’s talk about language and community. Cities with big Indian populations—like Dubai, Toronto, or Kuala Lumpur—make life easier. Need to speak in Hindi or Tamil? You’ll find folks who understand you. These places also have Indian community centers, Desi stores, and even temples or gurdwaras around every corner.

Breaking the ice is easier in some places too. Locals in Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia tend to be open, chatty, and always game for a cricket conversation. Just try mentioning Virat Kohli in Melbourne. Suddenly you’re one of the gang.

Here’s an idea of what usually makes the cut when Indians pick a destination:

• Simple visa policies and affordable fees
• Plenty of Indian food options
• Established Indian communities
• Festivals and cultural events celebrated by locals
• Safe environment with low hassle from authorities
• Educational and work opportunities for Indian expats

Your everyday experience matters. A friendly place lets you blend in, not stand out. You can celebrate Diwali on a public square, ask for chai and actually get it, and not feel out of place wearing a kurta on the street. This is the stuff that sticks with travelers and expats when they look back on their time abroad.

Top Travel-Friendly Destinations for Indians

When talking about Indian tourists and expats, a few countries pop up every time for being extra warm and hassle-free. Not only do they make the travel experience smooth, but they also offer plenty of familiar food, faces, and festivals. Here’s a breakdown of the favorites, based on actual travel trends and popular demand.

• Singapore: Straight up, Singapore feels like a home away from home. Over 9% of its population is of Indian origin. With Little India, endless vegetarian joints, and Hindi and Tamil on public signs, you won’t feel lost. Their visa process is relatively simple, and Indian snacks show up in every 7-Eleven.
• Thailand: It’s the go-to for affordable trips. Indian passport holders get visa-on-arrival, and it’s easy to see why. Indian food is everywhere in Bangkok and Phuket, and locals are used to Indian tourists thronging their temples and malls.
• UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi): With almost 3.5 million Indians living here, Indians are the largest expat group. You’ll see Bollywood billboards, Indian events across the city, and restaurants that serve up home flavors. The UAE’s recent push for longer visit visas is a huge plus.
• Malaysia: Indians have been migrating to Malaysia for generations. The Deepavali public holiday, abundance of Indian eateries, and Tamil spoken in daily life make it super welcoming. Malaysia’s e-visa is a breeze for Indian travelers too.
• Australia: With nearly 800,000 Indians calling it home, Australia has gotten pretty good at catering to Indian interests. Cricket matches with Indian fans fill stadiums, there are dozens of Indian student clubs, and Melbourne’s Indian community hosts multiple annual festivals. Plus, their tourist visa is straightforward, especially if you submit all documents clearly.

Some folks are surprised to learn that countries like Sri Lanka and Nepal are practically next door for Indians, not just geographically — Indians don’t even need a pre-arrival visa for Nepal, and can travel with just a voter ID card. Sri Lanka offers an easy e-visa and recognizes many Indian festivals officially.

These spots all check the big boxes for cultural tourism—familiarness, food, language, and easy entry. So when folks ask, "Where will I be treated well as an Indian abroad?"—these places usually top the list for good reason.

Asian Hotspots: Where Tradition Meets Hospitality

When it comes to Indian tourists getting the royal treatment, a few Asian countries stand out every single time. Thailand tops almost every list, and it’s not just about the beaches. Thai hotels and local tour guides go out of their way to help Indian families—most even know a few words of Hindi (which can be hilarious, by the way). Indian restaurants are everywhere, and if you’re craving homemade chapatis or biryani, you’re sorted in places like Bangkok and Phuket. Thailand even has religious sites important to Indians, like the Erawan Shrine, making it feel even more welcoming.

Singapore is ridiculously easy to get around and the visa process for Indian tourists is super smooth. The Little India district is a sensory overload—in a good way. You’ll find temples, chaat stalls, and Tamil shopkeepers who’ll chat with you like an old friend. And festivals? Deepavali in Singapore seriously rivals any celebration back home.

Malaysia is another sleeper hit. English is spoken almost everywhere, which makes everyday stuff less stressful. Kuala Lumpur hosts massive Indian communities, so spotting a saree shop or grabbing dosas is no sweat. There are also direct flights from most Indian cities, so you skip the awkward long-haul layovers.

For the more adventurous, Indonesia is full of hidden gems. Bali, for example, boasts Hindu temples and ceremonies that feel oddly familiar if you grew up in India. Jakarta’s Indian community means easy access to home food, and local markets often sell Indian spices without you having to search all over town. Plus, tourist police and hotel staff usually go above and beyond to help Indian families out.

If you want numbers, here’s a quick look at Indian tourism to a couple of these spots:

These numbers say it all—Indians are not just passing through, they’re flocking to these countries for good reason. The mix of tradition, friendly faces, and easy access to everything Indian make these Asian hotspots a no-brainer for anyone craving both culture and comfort.

Western Countries That Embrace Indian Culture

Ask almost any Indian tourist or expat which western countries feel surprisingly comfortable, and a few big names always pop up: the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. These countries aren’t just friendly to visitors from India — they go out of their way to bring a bit of India right to their cities.

Take the UK, for example. Indian food is practically a national passion there. You can find proper butter chicken in London, and stores in Southall sell everything from Diwali lights to Bollywood DVDs. Plus, you’ll spot signs for Indian festivals and even see local mayors joining Holi runs. According to a 2023 report, Indians made up the largest group of international students in the UK, and one of the fastest-growing expat communities.

Canada is another top pick for Indian expats. Nearly every major city has its own mini-India — Brampton, Mississauga, and Surrey feel as close to Punjab as you can get without leaving North America. Finding a vegetarian restaurant is never a struggle; even Tim Hortons has started adding spicy options just for the Indian crowd. Laws here are very welcoming for skilled Indian workers and students, and permanent residency comes with clear, affordable pathways.

The US might look a little scattered at first, but you’ll find massive Indian festivals happening coast to coast. Large pockets of Indian communities — like Edison in New Jersey or Fremont in California — turn into festival hotspots every year for Diwali and Navratri. Even mainstream supermarkets stock up on samosas, because local demand is that high. According to the Migration Policy Institute, more than 2.8 million people of Indian origin live in the States as of 2024, making them one of the most successful immigrant groups in the country.

If you’re itching for home comforts, the west can deliver. From cricket matches in American baseball stadiums to grocery stores filled with Maggi and masala chai, it’s hard to feel homesick for long. Getting a visa can be trickier here compared to Asia, but tons of travel tips from other Indians can help you avoid common pitfalls. My friend Ray found joining local WhatsApp groups for Indians in Vancouver way more useful for settling in than any travel guide.

So if your next stop is in the west, you’re in luck — these countries don’t just tolerate Indian culture, they celebrate it. You’ll find Indian music on local radio, festivals taking over public parks, and probably someone nearby who knows exactly where to find that one comfort food you miss from home.

Surprisingly Welcoming Destinations

When you think of the go-to friendly countries for Indians, you picture Singapore, Dubai, maybe even the UK. But let’s talk about the places you wouldn’t expect — the offbeat gems that treat Indian tourists better than you’d guess.

Mauritius is a perfect example. Almost 70% of its population has Indian roots, which leads to a real sense of belonging the moment you arrive. Street food vendors sell samosas, and there’s a good chance the local language sounds a lot like home. Indian festivals are national holidays here, and you’ll spot temples at almost every turn. Not only do Indians get visa-free access for up to 60 days, but you’ll also likely get offered a cup of masala chai before you touch your luggage at the guesthouse.

Next is Thailand. The country makes it super easy, with visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders. Street food carts do a booming business with vegetarian options (think spicy tofu and coconut curries), and the Indian expat community in Bangkok is huge, with Bollywood nights not just limited to the touristy spots. Honestly, you’ll find Indian restaurants open late—sometimes later than the clubs.

Then there’s Georgia, the one in Europe, not the US. Indians can get a free e-visa, and the growth in Indian visitors has led to businesses doing everything to keep tourists happy—from Hindi menus in Tbilisi restaurants to heaps of Instagrammable spots where “…but is there vegetarian food?” isn’t even a question anymore. The hospitality here is next level, and people are genuinely curious about Indian culture.

If you really want to surprise the family back home, Serbia gives free entry (no visa needed for up to 30 days!) and openly welcomes Indian expats. Serbian cities like Belgrade have little Indian grocery stores, and Dussehra parties thrown by Indians sometimes draw in curious locals looking to join the fun. You might not always find a dosa on the menu, but the openness and warmth make up for it.

Here’s a quick look at a few key perks of these destinations:

So, if you’re itching to visit somewhere a little different but want to make sure you won’t feel lost or out of place, definitely keep these spots on your radar. For Indian tourists who like comfort but want a twist with their travel, these places offer just that—warmth, food, and maybe even a surprise Bollywood song on the city bus.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Friendly Visit

You’ve picked a friendly country for Indians, packed your bags, and now the fun starts. But even in the best spots, a few smart moves can upgrade your experience from good to amazing.

• Embrace local customs while keeping your own. For instance, in Thailand and Singapore, taking off your shoes before entering someone’s home is a must. But don’t worry—you can still carry your favorite masala snacks for comfort.
• Use language apps early. While English is often enough, learning a few local phrases (like terima kasih in Malaysia or sawasdee in Thailand) makes locals light up.
• Scope out Indian restaurants online before you fly. Places like Dubai, London, and Kuala Lumpur have huge Indian food scenes. Trying the local version of your fav North or South Indian dish is half the fun—sometimes you’ll be surprised how good it is.
• Take advantage of visa perks. Countries like Indonesia and Mauritius offer visa on arrival for Indian passport holders. No endless paperwork, no headaches. Always double check the rules before you travel—they change!
• Celebrate your festivals together. Some destinations go all out for Indian events. Did you know Diwali is a public holiday in Singapore, Fiji, and Malaysia? Jump in—often the local Indian community throws open invites, so you’ll never feel left out.
• Stay connected without breaking the bank. Buy a local SIM or global eSIM as soon as you land. It’s usually way cheaper than international roaming and saves you from awkwardly searching for Wi-Fi outside the airport.
• Mix up the itinerary. Hang out at Indian favorite hotspots (like Dubai’s Burj Khalifa or London’s Southall) but also step beyond to see what locals do in their free time. Try hawker food in Singapore, night markets in Bangkok, or free museum days in Toronto.

A little planning with these tips can help you get the best out of your cultural tourism adventures. Whether you’re there for a week or a year, blending in a bit and standing out for the right reasons works wonders.