As 2025 draws to a close, one of the biggest shifts in global travel for Indians has come from the surge in new direct international flights. Places that once demanded long layovers, confusing transfers, or overnight airport waits are suddenly just a single hop away.
And with many of these non-stop routes already operational, travellers can look forward to exploring them more freely and comfortably in 2026—making global holidays easier, faster, and far less stressful.
Every new route shrinks the world a little more, and next year is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years for Indian travellers yet.
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1. Delhi to Manila, Philippines — India’s First Direct Gateway to 7,000+ Islands
For the first time ever, India has a direct route to Manila, opening up seamless access to the Philippines—one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant archipelagos. With visa-free entry for Indians, the country has quickly become a top contender for travellers seeking fresh beach escapes.
From the heritage lanes of Intramuros to the powdery shores of Boracay and Palawan, Manila becomes the perfect launchpad to explore over 7,000 islands known for cliffs, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters.
Visa for Indians: Visa-free for 14 days.
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2. Kolkata/Delhi to Guangzhou, China — A Major Comeback After Five Years
Direct flights to Guangzhou are back after a five-year break, reconnecting travellers to one of China’s most powerful trade, business, and cultural hubs.
The illuminated skyline, bustling night markets, ancient temples, and iconic Cantonese cuisine now lie just one non-stop flight away—making travel to southern China smoother than ever.
Visa for Indians: China visa required.
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3. Kolkata to Siem Reap, Cambodia — A Smooth Path to Angkor’s Timeless Grandeur
The world-famous Angkor Wat complex is now far more accessible thanks to direct flights to Siem Reap. Travellers can explore ancient temples framed by jungles and moats, stroll through atmospheric ruins like Ta Prohm, and witness a golden sunrise over Angkor’s towering spires—all without the hassle of connecting flights.
Visa for Indians: Visa on Arrival.
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4. Mumbai to Seychelles — A Luxurious Island Paradise, Now Just One Flight Away
The Seychelles, once considered a distant luxury escape, is now directly connected to India. Soft white sands, turquoise lagoons, and rare wildlife await travellers who dream of untouched tropical beauty.
From Mahé’s beaches to Praslin’s Vallée de Mai and La Digue’s world-famous granite shores, this route opens the door to the Indian Ocean’s most coveted paradise.
Visa for Indians: Travel Authorisation Letter required.
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5. Mumbai to Krabi, Thailand — Adventure & Island Bliss on a New Non-Stop Route
India now has direct access to Krabi, home to Thailand’s most iconic landscapes. With its limestone cliffs, emerald pools, mangroves, and turquoise bays, Krabi is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Explore Railay’s climbing routes, kayak through sea caves, visit jungle hot springs, or simply island-hop across the Andaman Sea—no more detours via Bangkok or Phuket.
Visa for Indians: Visa-free for up to 60 days.
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6. Hyderabad/Bengaluru to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam — India’s Newest Southeast Asia Shortcut
Vietnam’s rising popularity gets another boost with direct flights from Hyderabad and Bengaluru to Ho Chi Minh City. The city offers a dynamic blend of French-colonial architecture, rooftop cafés, vibrant markets, and buzzing nightlife.
It also acts as a gateway to bucket-list sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, and onward travel to Hanoi, Danang, and Ha Long Bay.
Visa for Indians: e-Visa required (valid up to 90 days).
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7. Pune to Bangkok, Thailand — The Easiest Way to Explore Thailand’s Capital
Pune now enjoys its own direct link to Bangkok—no more flights via Mumbai or Delhi. This non-stop route offers quick access to shimmering temples, street-food heaven, floating markets, and rooftop bars.
It’s also perfect for onward escapes to Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Thailand’s famous islands.
Visa for Indians: Visa-free entry.
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8. Pune to Dubai, UAE — A Faster Route to the Middle East’s Biggest Hotspot
With direct flights from Pune to Dubai now live, travellers can reach one of the world’s most glamorous and fast-growing cities in a single hop.
From the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall to souks, beaches, and desert adventures, this route brings the Middle East’s biggest hub closer than ever.
Visa for Indians: Visa on Arrival.
(Image: Canva)
9. Mumbai to Tbilisi, Georgia — A Direct Route to Europe’s Most Underrated Capital
Mumbai is now connected directly to Tbilisi, the atmospheric capital of Georgia—often called Europe’s hidden gem. Think cobbled lanes, sulphur baths, vibrant cafés, street art, panoramic hilltop views, and some of the world’s oldest wine regions.
The new route also opens the doors to Georgia’s ski towns, mountain trails, and charming Black Sea coastline.
Visa for Indians: e-Visa required.
A New Era of Effortless Global Travel for Indians
With these nine non-stop routes now up and running—and more expected through 2026—Indian travellers are stepping into a new age of convenience. Destinations that once felt remote or complicated to reach are now comfortably within reach, perfect for vacations, last-minute trips, and international getaways.
For Indian globetrotters, the world isn’t just opening up—it’s coming closer than ever.
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