In case you missed them, here are a few final tips for a smooth and successful trip to the Philippines. The currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP) - check the latest exchange rate of 1 INR and 0.68 PHP. You'll be more comfortable between November and May, because it's the dry season. English is widely spoken and should be easy enough to communicate. Although the Philippines is safe for tourists, in places like Manila you should stay vigilant.
Arranging a trip to the Philippines from India in 2025 is likely possible and can be budget-friendly if you prepare yourself ahead of time. It is advised that you obtain your visa early,
2025 will be an exciting year for the Philippines! What you need to know before you go - getting everything straightened out with visas and your wallet.
Let’s Dive in
Do Indians need a Visa to Visit Philippine’s
Yes!
Indian passport holders need a visa to go to the Philippines for the purpose of tourism. However, it is quite simple and in few cases, you might not need a visa for a short time if you have certain visas:
Visa Options for Indians Traveling to the Philippines in 2025
There are two main ways Indians can enter:
1. Standard Visa
Most travellers usually apply for a regular 9A tourist visa at the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in India.
Duration
Your visa will expire in 59 days but it can be extended while you are in the Philipinnes
2. Visa free entry
If you currently hold a visa or permanent residency in the US, Japan, Australia, Canada, or the Schengen Area, you may enter the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days. Your visa must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay, and you must have a valid return or onward ticket.
This option is ideal if you have further travel plans or if you are planning to visit multiple countries!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Philippines Tourist Visa (9A)
Here’s exactly how to apply:
Step 1: Gather important documents
Firstly, gather all the essential documents and keep them handy before applying for the visa. These include a completely filled out visa application form from the Philippine Embassy website, a six-month valid Indian passport from the date of departure, two passport-sized photos with a white background, a flight schedule (a round-trip ticket), proof of hotel booking or residency, bank statements from the last six months showing adequate funds of around INR 50,000 or more, a cover letter detailing your travel plans, dates, and desire to return, income tax returns are optional but advisable, and travel insurance may sometimes be necessary.
Tip: Be sure to verify the most recent checklist on the embassy’s website as small requirements could have changed.
Step 2: Book an Appointment for Citizen Services
Some Philippine consulates accept walk-ins, but it makes sense to book an appointment online to get service easier and faster.
You can apply at:
• Embassy of the Philippines, New Delhi
• Consulate General of the Philippines, Mumbai
• Other honorary consulates in Chennai, Kolkata, or Bangalore
Step 3 : submit the applications Visit the embassy or consulate is where you will be submitting all your documents. This is where you will have to pay Visa fees which could be somewhere between INR 3000–4000 for a single entry tourist visa. Also, you will have to give biometrics if that is required.
Step 4: Wait for processing
Please keep in mind that the visa processing is going to take anywhere between 5 to 10 working days, and I recommend that you apply at least 3–4 weeks before your intended travel date. Once your visa has been approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport. It is the big moment!
Travelling to Philippines on a Budget : Tips and Tricks
When you’ve sorted out your visa, it’s time to plan for a budget-friendly adventure in the Philippines. The Philippines is known as an inexpensive destination, if you plan smart.
1. Book Flights Early
How come it's so expensive to book last minute flights from India to Manila or Cebu?
Budget Tips
When booking a flight you can use a few flight trackers to avail the best fares such as Google Flights or Sky-scanner. Then, make sure to book your trip 2 – 3 months in advance. And also, try to find deals with low-cost airlines like Cebu Pacific and AirAsia.
Typical round-trip flights: INR 18,000–25,000 if booked early.
2. Use local Transport
In Manila, feel free to ride super-cheap Jeepneys and LRT/MRT trains. On the islands, you can take tricycles, ferries, and buses. Apps like Grab (that is like the Philippines’ Uber) are very helpful and cheap as well.
3. Stay in Budget Accommodations You can choose certain types of cheap accommodation to stay in, for instance Hostels in Boracay or Palawan where you can stay in for just INR 700 to INR 1200 every night. Or, you can prefer Airbnb which can be cheaper when traveling with your friends. Please look for hotels that offer free breakfasts so as to save on extra expenses.
Looking for a budget place?
Here are some recommendations for you.
• Manila: You can try out Z Hostel, or even Tambayan Capsule Hostel.
• In Cebu, you can try out the Mad Monkey Hostel.
• In El Nido (Palawan) you can check out the Spin Designer Hostel.
4. Eat like a local
Would you like to try some street food? Have Halo-Halo for dessert, Pancit noodles and our national dish, Chicken Adobo! Local meals cost about INR 100–250 at eateries there called Carinderias.
5. Plan Island Hopping Smartly
How can one plan to island hop smartly? Is island hopping the thing to do on El Nido and Coron? Did you know many island hopping tours (especially in El Nido and Coron) are a must-do? Do you have any budget tips for me? What about booking shared tours instead of private boats? Is it a great idea to compare rates at local tour offices, don’t pre-book expensive tours online? What’s the most you might have to pay for just one day of island hopping? How about INR 1500 to 2500 per island-hopping day, including lunch?
6. Buy a local Sim
Stay connected in the Philippines easily with a Globe or Smart SIM card. Data packages are cheap; around INR 300 for a week’s internet.
7. Travel insurance is incredibly important. This is true even for short trips that you wish to take on a budget. Medical costs abroad can be very high.
You can get a starting quote for travel insurance at around 600-800 INR for a trip on a budget.
Travel Insurance is Important
Even on a budget trip, don’t skip insurance. Medical emergencies abroad can be expensive.
Affordable plans start from INR 600–800 for a short trip.
Estimated Travel Budget Breakdown:
Round-trip flight: 20,000 INR
Visa fees: 3,500 INR
Accommodation: 7,000 INR
Food: 3,000 INR
Local transport: 2,000 INR
Island tours and activities: 5,000 INR
Miscellaneous (SIM, insurance, shopping): 2,000 INR
Total Estimate Budget: 42,500 INR
watch flight offers and join the local culture for a once-in-a-lifetime island holiday — all without spending too much money.
Best Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in the Philippines
This is a dream for Indian travellers who want stunning beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant cities — without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best affordable destinations for Indian travellers
1. Cebu
Cebu is known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls (like Kawasan Falls), and historical sites.
• Stay in guesthouses in Moalboal or Oslob and use local buses (“Ceres” buses) to get around cheaply.
Must-Do: Swim with sardines at Moalboal, visit the historical Magellan’s Cross, and hike to Osmeña Peak.
2. Siquijor
• Why visit: This island is called the “Island of Fire” and it is enchanting with its pristine beaches, waterfalls and mysterious attractions, and what’s more, hardly any tourists.
• Budget advice: Only costs about ₹400- ₹600 to lease a motorbike for an entire day and it is your own best way to go around the island.
• Don't miss: Don’t miss a stop at Cambugahay Falls, Salagdoong Beach and its famous cliff diving spot, and in addition you simply must visit the Spanish colonial churches.
3. Bohol
Bohol is the ideal destination for those who enjoy the beauty of nature and history. There you’ll behold the incredible Chocolate Hills and meet the amazing tarsiers, the world’s smallest primates. However, you can enjoy a cheap trip from Cebu to Bohol by using the local ferries. Sites fees are only ₱50-₱150 so attractions will be really cheap. Meanwhile, Loboc River Cruise, Panglao Island beaches and visiting Baclayon Church are some of the must-dos.
4. Palawan
If you want the world’s most beautiful islands, you need to go to Palawan. It is true that El Nido is well known, but you could find the nearby Port Barton a bit cheaper and much quieter. Book island-hopping tours in groups for discounts and eat at local karinderyas (small eateries) if you want to save money. Island hopping (Tour A & C), Nacpan Beach, and snorkeling in Port Barton are must-do activities.
5. Dumaguete
This is a laid-back coastal city great for diving, snorkeling, and daily spots. You’ll find plenty of cheap cafes, restaurants, and hostels full of students because it’s a university town. Don’t miss your chance to swim with turtles in Apo Island, visit Casaroro Falls, or take a walk along Rizal Boulevard.
6. Want to know all about Siargao?
•Why Siargao: It is known for its relaxed vibes and natural beauty- and it’s still much cheaper compared to other places like Boracay.
•Minding your budget: Accommodation is more affordable in homestays, and renting a motorbike is also cheap.
•Must Do: Guyam, Daku, Naked Islands hopping, Sugba Lagoon, and Cloud 9 surfing.
7, Manila and Intramuros
This should be at the top of your list; offering glimpses of the historical and urban life of the Philippines. For a mere ₹15 to ₹30 per ride, use the Jeepneys, which are colorful local busses, to get around. To make the most of your time here, don’t miss the opportunity to walk around Intramuros, a town which was a Spanish colonial stronghold, Rizal Park and try the local street food like Lumpia and Halo-Halo.
In case you missed them, here are a few final tips for a smooth and successful trip to the Philippines. The currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP) - check the latest exchange rate of 1 INR and 0.68 PHP. You'll be more comfortable between November and May, because it's the dry season. English is widely spoken and should be easy enough to communicate. Although the Philippines is safe for tourists, in places like Manila you should stay vigilant.
Arranging a trip to the Philippines from India in 2025 is likely possible and can be budget-friendly if you prepare yourself ahead of time. It is advised that you obtain your visa early,
Therefore, pack your bags, your snorkelling gear, and a big smile — because your Philippine paradise awaits!
