Philippines - Tours & Travel Guide
An archipelago of seven thousand islands offering pristine beaches and limestone lagoons.
About Philippines
The Philippines is a diverse island nation in Southeast Asia, known for its clear turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and world-class diving spots. For Indian travellers, it offers a tropical alternative to more commercial regional destinations, with a unique blend of Spanish colonial history and indigenous culture.
Most itineraries focus on the islands of Palawan, Cebu, and Boracay. While Manila serves as the primary gateway, the true appeal lies in island-hopping tours, underground rivers, and the hospitality of the local Filipino people who are widely fluent in English.
Tours in Philippines
- Alpine Japan Summer Experience - 9N/10D, from ₹1,19,999
- Finland & Sweden Arctic Escape - 10N/11D, from ₹1,99,999
- Japan Summer Highlights - 9N/10D, from ₹1,39,999
- Classic Japan Explorer - 7N/8D, from ₹1,20,000
Highlights
- El Nido Lagoons - Explore the Big and Small Lagoons by kayak, where towering limestone cliffs meet emerald waters.
- Coron Shipwreck Diving - Visit one of the best wreck diving sites in the world, featuring well-preserved Japanese ships from WWII.
- Chocolate Hills of Bohol - View over 1,200 symmetrical brown hills that look like giant chocolate drops during the dry season.
- Boracay White Beach - Relax on four kilometres of powdery white sand, known for its vibrant sunset sailing and water sports.
- Puerto Princesa Underground River - Take a boat through one of the world's longest navigable subterranean rivers and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Best time to visit Philippines
The dry season from December to May is the most reliable time for island hopping and diving.
- December - February
- March - May
- June - November
Travel essentials
- visa: Indian passport holders with a valid US, UK, Schengen, Australian, or Japanese visa can enter visa-free for up to 14 days.
- currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- language: Filipino and English
- best season: December to May
Good to know before you go
- - Purchase a local SIM card (Globe or Smart) at the airport as hotel Wi-Fi can be inconsistent in remote islands.
- - Carry sufficient cash (Pesos) when visiting smaller islands like El Nido, as ATMs are limited and often run out of cash.
- - Island hopping often requires domestic flights. Book in advance with carriers like Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines.
- - Pure veg restaurants are rare outside Manila. Expect to rely on rice, tropical fruits, and customized vegetable stir-fries.
- - Type A and B plugs (flat pins) are standard; carry a universal adapter.
Philippines FAQs
Are there direct flights from India to the Philippines?
Currently, there are no direct flights. Most travellers connect through Singapore, Bangkok, or Ho Chi Minh City to reach Manila.
Is the Philippines safe for Indian tourists?
Yes, major tourist hubs like Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu are very safe. Standard precautions should be taken in crowded areas of Manila.
How do I get around between islands?
Major islands are connected by domestic flights. For shorter distances, like Cebu to Bohol, fast ferries are the most efficient option.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes, English is one of the official languages and is spoken fluently by most people in the tourism industry, making navigation easy.