What if your next international holiday could be closer, easier, and way more exciting than you think? Manila, Philippines is that sweet spot—vibrant, friendly, and full of surprises that feel both familiar and new. At Touracle, we’re always searching for destinations that fit Indian travelers like a glove. Manila checks every box for families, honeymooners, and luxury seekers. It’s a quick hop from India, it’s wallet-friendly, and it serves up big-city buzz with island calm nearby. Here’s everything we love about Manila—and why it should be your next international choice from India.
Why Manila Philippines Is a Top International Destination From India
Manila doesn’t try too hard. It just wins you over with warm people, lively streets, and deep history. It’s modern, yet soulful. You get the best of Southeast Asia without long travel times or heavy budgets.
- Short flight times from major Indian cities
- Great value for hotels, dining, and shopping
- English widely spoken, easy to get around
- Family-friendly attractions and romantic spots for couples
- Luxury stays in Makati and BGC with world-class service
From Intramuros to Manila Bay, from art museums to mega malls, the city packs a lot into a few days. And if you want islands or volcano views—Tagaytay and Batangas are just a drive away.
Best Time to Visit Manila From India
Manila has two main seasons: dry and rainy. The weather can shape your plans, so timing matters.
- Best months (dry season): November to April – pleasant, less rain, perfect for city exploring and day trips.
- Shoulder months: May and early June – warm, some showers, good deals on hotels.
- Rainy/typhoon season: June to October – expect downpours; still doable if you plan indoor activities.
For honeymoon couples and families with kids, we recommend December to March for the most comfortable weather and smooth sightseeing.
How to Reach Manila From India: Flights and Routes
Getting to Manila is simple. Most travelers fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). You’ll find daily connections via Southeast Asian hubs.
- Direct/one-stop routes: From Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, or Hong Kong.
- Airlines to check: Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, AirAsia, Scoot, Indigo (via codeshares), and Philippine Airlines on select routes.
- Flight time: Around 8 to 10 hours total with one stop depending on layover.
Tip: Land at NAIA Terminal 3 if possible—it’s modern and has easier transfers. Check the official airport site for updates and terminals: NAIA Official.
Manila Itinerary Ideas for Family, Honeymoon, and Luxury Travelers
Use these simple, flexible plans to build your Manila travel itinerary from India.
2-3 Days: Manila Highlights
- Intramuros: Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, cobblestone lanes
- Rizal Park and National Museum Complex
- Manila Bay sunset from Baywalk or a dinner cruise
- Makati or BGC for cafes, art, and nightlife
- Mall of Asia (MOA) for shopping and options for kids
4-5 Days: City + Day Trip
- Tagaytay for Taal Volcano views
- Corregidor Island for World War II history
- Binondo (Chinatown) food crawl
- A museum morning + a spa afternoon in Makati
For Families
- Interactive museums and science centers
- Oceanarium or parks for easy downtime
- Safe, central stays in Makati or BGC
For Honeymoon Couples
- Sunset at Manila Bay
- Rooftop dinners in BGC/Makati
- Weekend extension to Tagaytay or a beach in Batangas
For Luxury Travelers
- 5-star hotels with spa suites
- Fine dining at Greenbelt or The Fort
- Private guided tours of Intramuros and museum districts
Top Things to Do in Manila for First-Time Visitors
Start with culture, end with a sunset, and fill the gap with food and fun.
- Intramuros and Fort Santiago: Walk or take a bamboo bike tour through Spanish-era walls and churches.
- San Agustin Church & Museum: Stunning heritage site with art and history.
- Rizal Park (Luneta): Relaxing green space with national history.
- National Museum Complex: Art, anthropology, and natural history in one area.
- Manila Ocean Park: Family-friendly, with shows and exhibits.
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC): Murals, cafes, high-end shopping, and nightlife.
- Makati & Greenbelt: Elegant malls, restaurants, and serene church gardens.
- Sunset at Manila Bay: Iconic view, best in dry season.
Where to Stay in Manila: Best Areas and Luxury Hotels
Choose an area based on your vibe and plans.
- Makati: Classic business district, safe, central, top hotels and malls.
- BGC (Taguig): Modern, walkable, artsy murals, great dining and nightlife.
- Pasay/MOA area: Close to the bay, big malls, events, and family fun.
- Intramuros/Ermita: Best for history lovers; quieter nights, museums nearby.
Luxury picks include international brands and stylish boutiques. Expect world-class service at values better than many other Asian capitals. If you want help choosing the right stay for your style, contact Touracle and we’ll match you with the perfect hotel.
Food Guide for Indians in Manila: Vegetarian and More
Filipino food is hearty and comforting. It blends Spanish, Malay, Chinese, and American influences. And yes, you can find Indian or vegetarian options easily in Manila’s popular districts.
- Must-try Filipino dishes: Adobo, Sinigang, Kare-Kare, Pancit, Halo-Halo dessert
- For vegetarians: Many restaurants offer vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and salads; look for Asian eateries in Makati and BGC
- Indian restaurants: You’ll find North Indian, South Indian, and fusion spots in Makati, BGC, and near major malls
- Cafes and brunch: The coffee scene is strong, with artisanal bakeries and specialty cafes
Tip: Ask for “no meat, no fish, no shrimp paste” if ordering vegetarian Filipino dishes. Staff are friendly and will try to help.
Nightlife and Shopping in Manila for Indian Travelers
When the sun goes down, Manila shines. And when it comes to shopping, it’s easy to find both deals and designer labels.
- Nightlife hubs: Poblacion in Makati for bars and live music; BGC for classy lounges and rooftops
- Shopping hotspots: Greenbelt/Glorietta (Makati), Mall of Asia (Pasay), Uptown and SM Aura (BGC)
- Souvenirs: Local coffee, dried mangoes, woven crafts, pearls (buy from trusted stores)
Dress smart casual for rooftops. Carry a light wrap for air-conditioned malls and restaurants.
Day Trips From Manila Worth Your Time
Need a nature break? Manila serves perfect day trips for families, couples, and luxury travelers.
- Tagaytay: Cool weather, lake and Taal Volcano views, garden cafes, zipline parks for kids
- Corregidor Island: Guided WWII history tour by ferry
- Batangas beaches: Anilao for snorkeling and diving; Nasugbu for quiet coves
- Las Casas Filipinas (Bataan): Heritage homes and photo-ready streets
We can arrange private cars, licensed guides, and curated meals for a smooth day out. Talk to Touracle for custom day trips.
Manila Travel Tips for Indians: Visa, Currency, SIM, Safety
Make your Manila trip smooth with these key tips.
Visa and Entry
- Most Indian passport holders need a visa for the Philippines. An e-visa system exists for some applicants.
- Some travelers with valid visas or resident permits for the US, UK, Schengen, Japan, Australia, Canada, or Singapore may be eligible for short visa-free entry under certain conditions. Rules change, so verify before booking.
- Complete the Philippines eTravel registration before arrival: eTravel Portal.
- Check the latest rules with official sources: Bureau of Immigration and Department of Tourism.
We’re happy to guide you through current requirements and paperwork. Reach out early so we can plan timelines together.
Money and Payments
- Local currency: Philippine Peso (PHP).
- ATMs and cards are common in malls and hotels; keep some cash for small shops.
- Exchange at banks or trusted counters; check live rates on your app.
SIM, Transport, and Getting Around
- Buy a local SIM (Globe or Smart) at the airport or malls. Data plans are affordable.
- Use Grab app for safe, fair rides. Metro LRT/MRT works for short hops.
- Traffic can be heavy—plan buffers, especially for airport transfers.
Safety and Etiquette
- Stick to central areas like Makati, BGC, Intramuros, and Pasay.
- Keep valuables secure; use hotel safes; avoid flashy displays.
- Dress modestly in churches and heritage spaces.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa.
Power, Water, and Health
- Power: 220V; plug types A/B/C. Carry a universal adapter.
- Drink bottled or filtered water. Many hotels provide it daily.
- Consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
Cost of a Manila Trip From India: Budgets and Upgrades
Manila fits many budgets. Here’s a simple, ballpark idea for 4 nights, excluding shopping. Actual costs vary by season and deals.
Flights
- Economy return from major Indian cities: approximately INR 28,000 to 48,000 per person with one stop. Book early for better fares.
Hotels (Per Night)
- Good 3-star: INR 4,500 to 7,500
- Stylish 4-star: INR 7,500 to 12,000
- Premium 5-star: INR 12,000 to 25,000+
Daily Spend
- Meals: INR 1,200 to 3,000 per person (more for fine dining)
- Transport and tickets: INR 800 to 2,000 per day
- Day trips: INR 4,000 to 12,000 per person depending on distance and private tours
Families can look for connecting rooms and suite deals. Honeymooners can add spa days, rooftop dinners, and a Tagaytay escape. Luxury travelers can book club floors, private transfers, and VIP guides. Tell us your style and we’ll craft it smartly around your budget.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Manila
Manila is easy with kids. Short walks, lots of indoor attractions, and big open spaces.
- Interactive museums and galleries in Makati and the museum district
- Manila Ocean Park and bay cruises
- Safe walking in BGC with parks and public art
- Malls with play zones, aquariums, and cinemas
- Day trip to Tagaytay for cool weather and kid-friendly activities
We can set up family rooms, car seats, and child-friendly guides for stress-free days.
Honeymoon in Manila Philippines: Romantic Spots and Ideas
A Manila honeymoon is fresh and unexpected. You get charming culture, great food, and stunning sunsets—without long travel time.
- Sunset at Manila Bay with a private dinner
- Rooftop cocktails in Makati or BGC
- Couples spa day and poolside time at a luxury hotel
- Intramuros by night with a guided walk and candlelit meal
- Tagaytay morning with Taal Lake views and brunch in a garden cafe
Want to pair Manila with an island? Add 2-3 nights in Palawan or Boracay after the city. We’ll time flights so it feels seamless.
Luxury Travel in Manila: Suites, Spas, and Private Guides
Manila knows how to pamper. Think large suites, club lounges, rooftop pools, and spa rituals that melt away jet lag.
- Butler service and private airport transfers
- Tailored art and heritage tours with expert guides
- Chef-led dining, wine pairings, and curated bar hopping
- Designer shopping with personal stylists in Greenbelt and BGC
Tell us your wish list. We’ll design a Manila luxury escape that is both stylish and relaxed.
Responsible and Sustainable Travel in Manila
Travel kindly and your experience gets better too.
- Choose hotels that focus on energy and water savings
- Carry a refillable bottle; many cafes offer filtered water
- Support local artisans and ethical pearl dealers
- Use public transport or shared rides when possible
- Respect heritage sites and local customs
Sample 5-Day Manila Travel Itinerary From India
Here’s a simple plan you can tweak for families, couples, or luxe escapes.
- Day 1: Arrive at NAIA, check into Makati/BGC, relax with a spa and early dinner
- Day 2: Intramuros + Fort Santiago, San Agustin, lunch in the old city, sunset at Manila Bay
- Day 3: National Museum morning, café stop, mall time at Greenbelt or MOA, rooftop drinks
- Day 4: Day trip to Tagaytay for Taal views; return for a fine-dining dinner
- Day 5: Free day for shopping, Ocean Park with kids, or Poblacion food crawl; fly back at night
Want more beach time? Swap Day 4 for Batangas or extend your trip to an island.
Practical Manila FAQs for Indian Travelers
- How many days are enough? 3 to 5 days is ideal for first-timers.
- Is English widely spoken? Yes. It’s easy to communicate almost everywhere.
- Is Manila safe? Stick to well-known areas, take normal precautions, and use registered taxis or Grab.
- What should I wear? Light, breathable clothes; a light jacket for malls; modest wear for churches.
- Can I find Indian food? Yes, especially in Makati, BGC, and near major malls.
Manila Philippines From India: Why We Love It at Touracle
Manila is warm and real. It’s a city that greets you with a smile and invites you to explore. For families, it’s safe and simple. For couples, it’s romantic and full of character. For luxury travelers, it’s polished and private. All at a pace—and price—that makes sense for a short international break from India.
When you’re ready, we’ll help you turn this idea into a thoughtful plan. We’ll find the right flights, the right neighborhood, and the right touches to make your Manila story feel special.
Ready to craft your Manila holiday? Contact Touracle to start planning a personalized itinerary, compare hotel options, or get clarity on visas and travel timings. Our team will guide you end to end—quietly in the background—so you can simply enjoy the journey.