ICYMI: 10 Recent Travel Updates Indian Travellers Should Know About

Planning your next international getaway or looking forward to festive travel within India? There's been a lot happening in the world of travel recently that you need to know about. They include visa changes, passport-related news, unique tourism initiatives, global rankings and much more. All of these can affect your plans and future trips in different ways. The good news is that most of them can prove to be beneficial. Here's a quick round-up of a few important recent updates Indian travellers should be aware of:

1. Indian Passport's Global Ranking Improved

The Indian passport just made its biggest jump in years, moving up to the 77th position in the Henley Passport Index. Indian citizens can now travel to 59 countries either without a visa or by getting one on arrival. While it's still far from the world's most powerful passports, it is nevertheless a win for Indian travellers for several reasons. A stronger passport brings multifold benefits. Explore the lists of visa-free countries to know more.

2. GCC Visa Will Let You Visit 6 Gulf Nations With One Visa

Planning a trip to the Middle East? Keep an eye out for a soon-to-be-launched Schengen-style visa for this region. A new GCC Grand Tours Visa will allow travellers to explore six Gulf countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait) using just one visa. Expected to launch by the end of 2025 or early 2026, the GCC Visa promises to make regional travel across the Gulf cheaper and easier for tourists.

3. India Reopened Tourist E-Visas For Chinese Citizens

After a five-year break, India has officially restarted tourist e-visa services for Chinese nationals. This decision came into effect in July 2025. It is expected to bring more Chinese tourists, business travellers, and cultural visitors to India. The move is seen as a step towards improving bilateral ties and boosting tourism exchanges between the two countries.

4. Germany's Freelance Visa Could Benefit Independent Workers

If you're a freelancer, consultant, or artist looking to live and work abroad, Germany's Freelance Visa might be worth exploring. It's designed for professionals who don't need a full-time employer. This visa allows you to live in Germany while working on independent projects. It is valid for up to one year and can be extended. It seems to be a practical route for creative or remote workers from India to try working in Europe.

5. Jaipur Ranked Among The World's Best Cities

In a proud moment for India, Jaipur has been named one of the top 5 cities in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine. The city was praised for its vibrant markets, historic palaces, rich cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of its people. This accolade puts Jaipur on the global map as a city that offers an unforgettable travel experience.

6. Abu Dhabi Named The Safest City In The World Again

For the ninth year in a row, Abu Dhabi has been ranked the world's safest city, according to Numbeo's 2025 Safety Index. It scored high for low crime rates and effective public safety systems. For Indian travellers planning trips to the UAE, this is reassuring news. On a national level, Ahmedabad was named the safest city in India.

7. India's First Car Ferry Train To Run Between Mumbai And Goa

In a first for India, a car-carrying train is set to start operations between Mumbai and Goa during Ganesh Chaturthi 2025. Travellers will be able to load their cars onto a freight coach and then board the same train, making it easier to drive around once they reach Goa. This option could be especially useful for those heading home or on vacation during the festive season.

8. Special Trains Announced for Ganesh Chaturthi Festival Rush

The Indian Railways has announced 262 special trains in order to handle the heavier-than-usual travel demand during Ganesh Chaturthi 2025. These trains will run between major cities and the Konkan region, where the festival is widely celebrated. These extra trains aim to ease overall congestion, reduce waitlists, and help people travel more comfortably during this festive season.

9. India's First Mining Tourism Project To Be Launched In Jharkhand

Jharkhand is getting ready to launch India's first mining tourism experience, which will reportedly include tours of actual mining sites. This project could offer something new and educational for tourists. At the same time, it would showcase a lesser-known side of the region's economy and history. Read more about Jharkhand's mining tourism project and its current status.

10. Arunachal Pradesh May Be Declared India's 'Orchid Capital'

Nature lovers, take note! Arunachal Pradesh plans to become India's Orchid Capital. With over 600 recorded species, the state boasts many rare and exotic blooms. Tourism authorities are planning to promote orchid-based eco-tourism, develop orchid parks, and boost awareness around conservation.