If you&rsquore an art connoisseur and the world of historical architecture and classical sculptures is your calling, Russia&rsquos cultural capital St. Petersburg is right up your alley. Architectural marvels here like the Winter Palace and Kazan cathedral are definitely worth repeated visits and with the new free e - visa policy for Indian tourists, experiencing the vibrancy of St. Petersburg is not a far fetched dream anymore.

As per the new directive, Indians can now enter St. Petersburg through free e-visa. This visa is valid only for the Leningrad region for a period of 30 days and allows visitors to stay for 8 days. Indians can obtain single-entry tourist, business and humanitarian visa without even leaving their homes or offices. 

The facility has been put into effect since October 1, 2019. All one needs to do is fill up an e-form and upload a digital photo. Since the online application takes four days to process, tourists are advised to apply 20 days prior to the stipulated date of departure. 

These new visa rules will apply to 53 other countries in addition to India. Reports suggest that this move is an attempt to encourage Indian tourists to explore the Russian culture and also strengthen bilateral ties. 

If you&rsquore planning a trip to the land of the Tsars, especially to Saint Petersburg and Leningrad region, there has never been a better time than now. So book your tickets and get exploring