Top 5 Offbeat Countries to Visit this Year
Are you a globetrotter looking for short-flight destinations from India that are quaint and not overly touristy? Or maybe a busy professional who wants to explore international destinations but has just a few days to spare?
Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here are some exciting, offbeat, and underrated short-flight destinations from India for you to explore on your next vacation.
From golden beaches, tropical forests, and picturesque hills to ancient historical sites, bustling marketplaces, and glittering nightlife, these five less-explored countries have a lot to offer to international tourists looking for a fun holiday or a steamy honeymoon getaway.
1. Picturesque Philippines
With gorgeous white sandy beaches, scintillating water sports, and captivating coastlines, the Philippines is the perfect holiday spot for outdoorsy folks and beach lovers.
The land of stunning islands is an adventure-loving traveller’s delight and a short-flight destination from India for the time-strapped.
Explore the country’s luxurious resorts, glamorous nightlife, and towering skyscrapers, and visit the vibrant marketplaces. Those of you who love nature get to immerse yourself fully in the exploration of thickly forested hills, limestone cliffs in the middle of the emerald oceans, and underground caves.
Best time to visit: November to February
Minimum duration: 5 nights
Suggested Itinerary:
a. Manila (2 nights)
Also known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Manila is a bustling historic city with a lot to see and do. Get ready to be awestruck by the stunning architecture, lavish palaces, and multiple museums, and wind up the day with a relaxing meal in one of the city’s exotic cafes offering world-class cuisines.
Top Attractions
- The National Museum of the Philippines: A centre of archaeological wonders
- Intramuros: A bustling tourist spot also called the “Walled City”
- Arroceros Forest Park: A dense, green gorgeous forest
- Manila Cathedral: An important heritage site
- Robinsons Place Mall: One of the finest malls in the country
b. Boracay (2 nights)
White sand beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and exciting water sports define the true essence of the magical place that is Boracay. Lose yourself in the joys of cliff diving, island hopping, and parasailing, and get your adrenaline rushing!
Top Attractions
- Ariel’s point: An eco-adventure spot
- White beach: A surreal stretch of tropical beach and golden sand
- Ilig Iligan Beach: A pristine beach with crystal clear water
- Mount Luho: The highest vantage point in Boracay
- D’Mall: The most popular shopping mall in the city
2. Kaleidoscopic Kazakhstan
A spectacular dream destination that’s just a short flight away from India, Kazakhstan is one of the top lesser-known countries you should explore.
A country with a rich cultural heritage and gorgeous lush landscapes, Kazakhstan is a magical haven for both history aficionados and adventure sports lovers. Love the outdoors? Go make the majestic Altai Mountains your playground for mountain biking, hiking, and skiing!
For the more introverted, there are numerous museums, art galleries, and historical sites to visit and marvel at.
Best time to visit: April to May or September to October
Minimum duration: 4 nights
Suggested itinerary:
a. Almaty
Set against the backdrop of towering snow-capped mountains, Almaty is an exotic city known for its fabulous sights and thrilling winter sports.
Explore the extraordinary museums, get your adrenaline rushing with skiing and hiking, and end the day with a relaxing Russian bath in one of the city’s luxurious spas.
Top Attractions
- Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: The biggest museum in Central Asia
- Ile-Alatau National Park: A majestic alpine forest park flanked by snow-capped mountain ranges
- Kok Tobe Hill: A popular recreation area that offers spectacular views of Almaty
- Zenkov Cathedral: A Russian Orthodox cathedral located in Panfilov Park
- Medeu: The highest skating rink in the world
3. Spectacular Jordan
Magnificent archaeological wonders, stunning UNESCO world heritage sites, and resplendent modern hotels await you in the vibrant country of Jordan.
Get ready to be awestruck by the incredible ancient palaces, temples, and tombs in this melting pot of cultures. The country’s black basalt mansions and towers, which have long inspired poets, are sure to get the creative juices flowing in your dreamy heart.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
Minimum duration: 4 nights
Suggested itinerary:
a. Amman (1 night)
A historical city with a rich cultural heritage and a friendly vibe, Amman is perfect for those looking for a quick international vacation. Being a short-flight destination from India, Amman can be easily explored over a weekend!
Top Attractions
- Roman Theater: An ancient theatre built in the 2nd century
- Temple of Hercules: A temple situated at the peak of Citadel Hill
- Wild Jordan Center: A tourist spot overlooking the old city of Amman
- Umayyad Palace: A splendid palace built in the 8th century
- Rainbow Street: A modern, trendy, and happening place
b. Petra (1 night)
An archaeological marvel, Petra is a city of grandeur constructed in pre-historic times. Located amidst rugged canyons in Jordan’s southwestern desert, the city is a treasure trove for history lovers.
Top Attractions
- Siq: A magical rocky corridor that leads to Petra
- Al-Deir Monastery: A monument carved out of rock
- Al Khazneh: An elaborate sabsstone temple
- Qasr al-Bint: The most important temple in Petra
- Petra Theater: An ancient theatre built in the 1st century
c. Wadi Rum (1 night)
Also known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a scenic desert valley cut into granite and sandstone rocks. With an astonishing, almost other-worldly ambience, exploring Wadi Rum is a mystical experience.
Top Attractions
- Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A rock formation and hiking spot
- Khazali Canyon: A peak in the centre of the Wadi Rum protected area
- Um Frouth Rock Bridge: A steep rock bridge with a picturesque view
- Siq Nuqra: A canyon with a stellar view
- Wadi Rum Reserve: A protected stretch of desert wilderness
d. Dead Sea (1 night)
Relax your body and rejuvenate your senses in the healing cobalt-blue waters of the Dead Sea. Indulge yourself with opulent spa treatments and slather your skin with the mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea while you relax by the beachside.
Top Attractions
- Temple Mount: A holy city for Muslims and Jews
- Mount Nebo: A significant religious site for both Christians and Muslims
- Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: A natural reserve with abundant flora and fauna
- Mujib Nature Reserve: A spectacular spot for hiking and swimming
- Dead Sea Panoramic Complex: A popular tourist spot with a breath-taking view
4. Magnificent Oman
A land of ancient oases, splendid historical sites, magnificent mosques, and awe-inspiring natural beauty, Oman is the perfect international destination for a quick weekend trip.
Take a 4-hour flight to land in the kaleidoscope of rich culture, modern amenities, and natural wonders. Lose yourself in the magic of the rugged mountain ranges and fruit-laden orchards and rediscover your senses with Oman’s mouth-watering, delicious traditional cuisine.
Best time to visit: October to April
Minimum duration: 5 nights
Suggested itinerary:
a. Muscat
A city of historic splendour juxtaposed with modern development, Muscat is a dreamy retreat for those who love history, culture, and art. It’s a gorgeous international destination for water sports lovers as well!
Top Attractions
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: The main mosque in the Sultanate of Oman
- Mutrah Corniche: A promenade along the waterfront with a glorious view
- Al Jalali Fort: A fort dating from the Portuguese period of Oman’s history
- Al Bustan Palace Hotel: One of the world’s most lavish hotels
- Al Qurum Park: The largest natural park in Oman
b. Wadi Shab
Wadi Shab is a water-sports lover’s haven, a narrow canyon with crystal clear blue water and a secret waterfall inside a cave. Dive into the pools from the cliff top or simply relax by the poolside, taking in the stellar view.
Top Attractions
- Bimmah Sinkhole: A natural sinkhole filled with emerald-green water
- Wadi Tiwi: A scenic gorge with a lush landscape
- Majlis al-Jinn: One of the world’s largest cave chambers
- Pebble Beach: A spellbinding beach with golden sands and clear blue water
- Ras Al Shajar Natural Reserve: A safe haven for endangered turtles and migratory birds
c. Wahiba Sands
Mesmerizing sand dunes with gorgeous contours stand amidst the ocean of dunes and glitter gold in the afternoon sun. Take a peaceful cruise on the endless stretch of shimmering sands to relax your restless mind.
Top Attractions
- Wahiba Sands Tour: Join an excursion to explore the sands
- Wild Camping: Camp on the beach or the mountains to enjoy nature
- Dune Bashing: A thrilling way to enjoy sand sports
- Sand Boarding: An exhilarating adventure for extreme sports lovers
- Quad Bike Adventures: Get your adrenaline pumping with a quad bike adventure
d. Nizwa
A lash of lush fruit orchards, fragrant date plantations, and exotic walnut cultivation, Nizwa is also home to splendid forts and architectural wonders that wait to spellbind you with their grandeur.
Top Attractions
- Jebel Akhdar: An exciting mountain ride through orchards and plantations
- Nizwa Fort: A famous 17th-century monument
- Jabreen Castle: A majestic castle that once served as a centre for learning
- Tanuf Ruins: A city famous for its historical ruins
- Nizwa Souq: An ancient architectural wonder
5. Tantalized by Turkey
With a rich cultural heritage influenced by the Ottoman Empire, glorious natural landscapes, and a balmy Mediterranean climate, Turkey is the ultimate international destination to check out for the time-strapped traveller.
One of the most enticing short-flight destinations from India, Turkey is the land of majestic mountains, lush gorges, stunning architectural wonders, and vibrant bazaars.
Adventure lovers can dive into surfing, water sports, and swimming in the clear aquamarine seas, while the more traditional tourist can go for leisurely walks in the gorgeous pine forests, take a relaxing sea cruise, and delight their senses with Turkish cuisine’s tantalizing spread of aromatic delicacies.
Best time to visit: April to May and September to October
Minimum duration: 5 nights
Suggested Itinerary:
a. Istanbul
Architectural marvels, stellar museums, historic sites, and resplendent mosques make Istanbul a spectacular holiday destination for history lovers. For those drawn to the opulent, lavish bazaars and glittering nightlife will make you want to spend a lifetime here!
Top Attractions
- Galata Tower: A Genoese tower built in the 14th century
- Istanbul Archaeological Museum: An impressive historical site
- Basilica Cistern: The largest underground cistern in Istanbul
- Blue Mosque: A 17th-century historic mosque also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Sophia: A marvellous cathedral turned into a museum
b. Cappadocia
The moonscaped region of Cappadocia, with its surreal beauty, historic ruins, and natural grandeur, is the perfect spot for dreamy travellers. Don’t forget to hike in fairy chimneys and go on hot balloon rides!
Top Attractions
- Cappadocia Cave Dwellings: Ancient cave houses carved centuries ago
- Pigeon Valley: A popular hiking destination
- Goreme Open Air Museum: A unique open-air museum
- Uchisar Castle: A high point that offers panoramic views of the magical surroundings
- Kaymakli Underground City: One of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia
Wrapping Up,
Just because you’re strapped for time doesn’t mean you can’t plan an exciting international vacation. There are so many breathtaking short-flight destinations from India you can choose from!
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a connoisseur of fine cuisine, or a busy professional looking for a short, exciting break, we’ve covered these five splendid international vacation destinations that’ll surely be a delight to explore.
We understand that vacation planning is no easy task, and we’re here to help you create the perfect vacation plan to meet your unique needs. Get in touch with the travel experts at GoTraveLab to plan your next vacation!