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While planning a trip abroad, we don&rsquot bat an eyelid when someone suggests touring a European country. Instead of preparing ourselves for an extensive amount of packing and scheduling, one can invest that energy into heading to a country closer to home to avoid a long journey in a cramped airplane. Here are some countries you can head to when time is precious and your budget is limited.
Sri Lanka
If gorgeous beaches, ancient forts, Buddhist temples and scrumptious seafood are your jam, head down to Sri Lanka where the culture and climate will make you feel right at home. This tiny country is perfect for a weekend trip when you&rsquore short on time but want to explore to your heart&rsquos content. Whether it&rsquos shopping at the vibrant Pettah market or sampling delicious Sri Lankan food at Dutch Precinct, this country has it all.
Flight time 1 hr 30 min flight from Chennai to Colombo
Nepal
Surrounded by the high walls of the Himalayas and a scenic view, visit Nepal for a quick getaway from the chaos of life and step into a place filled with spirituality and mountains. The city of Kathmandu is a perfect blend of old and modern apart from being a hub of mountaineering enthusiasts. Get some peace of mind by strolling through lush forests and several heritage sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Durbar square and Boudhanath Stupa, all within a radius of 15 km. All you need to have is your Indian passport and a return flight home.
Flight time 1 hr 30 min flight from New Delhi to Kathmandu
Oman
Although it&rsquos the oldest independent state in the Arab world, Oman is a modern country yet retaining its core culture and heritage which makes it the perfect travel destination. On one hand you have the latest fashion and electronic gadgets and on the other hand you have lovely traditional hand-made jewelry sold in souks. This country is breathtaking with its natural beauty complemented with a kaleidoscope of history and legends. Muscat with its souks and busy fish market makes for an enchanting destination.
Flight time 2 hr 30 min flight from Mumbai to Muscat
Bhutan
A relatively unexplored pocket of Asia, this neighboring country must be visited for its untouched beauty and natural wonders. Named one of the happiest countries in the world, this &lsquoland of the thunder dragon&rsquo with its rich flora and fauna coupled with a strong Buddhist culture has become an increasingly popular destination among Indian travellers.
Flight time 1 hr from Kolkata and 2 hours from New Delhi to Paro
Thailand
This highest visited country is on everyone&rsquos list. Its fascinating nightlife, pristine beaches and delicious food is unmatched with any other. Tickets can be purchased quite cheap from any major Indian city. Thailand&rsquos lovely floating markets, picturesque temples and mouth watering food is nothing short of heavenly. Indians can avail the visa-on-arrival facility at the Bangkok Airport and make their travel smoother.
Flight time 3 hr 30 min flight from New Delhi to Bangkok
Malaysia
A great place to sign up for street food tours, Malaysia is considered a popular shopping destination especially for its stunning white sand beaches, pleasant climate and gorgeous tourist destinations. Whether you&rsquore travelling with family or colleagues, you will never find a dull moment here. A mix of rapidly expanding cities full of skyscrapers and cultural attractions, Malaysia welcomes a steady stream of visitors every year. Be it the colorful and vibrant markets of Kuala Lumpur or the tasty and cheap food found all over the country, there is something for everyone here.
Flight time 4 hr flight from Chennai to Kuala Lumpur
Dubai
Dubai is a city no one can ignore. Its glimmering streets and high rise buildings will have you swooning over it for days. But Dubai has much more to offer than its glamour if you look closely. While it&rsquos zero crime rates makes it the perfect spot for tourists, get away from the traffic and crowds to indulge in a desert safari or take a walk down the old Bastakiya district. With its several striking monuments and attractive malls, Dubai is a hub for international tourists. This cosmopolitan city definitely has something for everyone.
Flight time 4 hr flight from Cochin to Dubai
Seychelles
Basically an island nation, this African country nestled in the Indian Ocean is known for its natural beauty. Its turquoise sea, white sand beaches and quaint hills come together to form a picturesque travel destination.
Flight time 4 hr 30 min flight from Mumbai to Mahe Island
Singapore
A sunny little island with a glitzy interior, Singapore is the ideal destination if you have a tight budget and limited time. Visit the zoo, enjoy the night safari and spend an evening at the Marina Bay. This location is perfect for a little family getaway. This alluring city boasts of being the economic hotspot of the world. Soak in the culture at Chinatown Heritage Centre, or take a cruise on the Singapore River, and revel in its pristine beauty.
Flight time 4 hr 30 min flight from Bengaluru to Singapore