Taiwan: East Asia’s Most Rewarding Under-the-Radar Destination
Taiwan is consistently rated among Asia’s best destinations for food, natural beauty, and cultural depth, yet it remains less explored by Indian tourists than Thailand or Japan. Taiwanese tourism authorities recorded a significant increase in Indian visitors post-pandemic, with a 38% increase in 2023-24, though total numbers remain modest compared to Western or Southeast Asian arrivals (Taiwan Tourism Bureau, 2024). The absence of direct flights from India and the visa requirement are the main friction points, but both are manageable with planning.
TL;DR: Taiwan requires a visa for Indian nationals (30-day single entry). No direct flights from India; connect via Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. Return fares range ₹35,000-₹90,000. Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge, and the night markets are unmissable. Book connecting flights at happyfares.in.
How to Fly from India to Taiwan
There are no direct flights between India and Taiwan (Taipei) as of 2026. All routes involve at least one connection. The most common transit points for Indian passengers are Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), and Hong Kong (HKG).
Common Routing Options to Taipei (TPE)
- Via Bangkok (BKK): IndiGo or Air India to Bangkok, then Thai Airways or EVA Air to Taipei. Total journey: 9-13 hours.
- Via Singapore (SIN): IndiGo or Air India to Singapore, then Singapore Airlines, Scoot, or China Airlines to Taipei. Good for those wanting a Singapore stopover.
- Via Kuala Lumpur (KUL): IndiGo to KUL, then AirAsia X or Malaysia Airlines to Taipei. Budget-friendly option.
- Via Hong Kong (HKG): Cathay Pacific from India to HKG, then onward to Taipei. Works well from Mumbai and Delhi.
Search multi-city itineraries at happyfares.in for the best combined fare.
Return Fare Ranges from India to Taiwan
- Economy (budget, booked ahead): ₹35,000-₹55,000 return
- Economy (standard): ₹55,000-₹80,000 return
- Business class: ₹1,80,000-₹4,00,000 return
Taiwan Visa for Indian Nationals
Indian nationals require a visa to enter Taiwan. There is no visa on arrival. The standard tourist visa for Indian passport holders is a 30-day single-entry visa, applied for at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in New Delhi or Mumbai (Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs, 2024).
Taiwan Visa Application Process
- Apply at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC): New Delhi or Mumbai offices
- Documents required: Valid passport (6 months validity), photographs, completed application form, bank statements (last 3 months), employment/income proof, flight itinerary, hotel bookings
- Visa fee: Approximately ₹2,800-3,500 (varies by visa type)
- Processing time: 3-7 working days for standard applications
- Multiple-entry visas available for frequent travellers
Fast-Track Option: Automatic Visa Exemption
Indian nationals who hold a valid US, UK, EU/Schengen, Japan, or certain other country’s visa or residence permit may qualify for visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to 30 days under the Automatic Visa Exemption (AVE) program. Confirm eligibility on the TECC website before relying on this route.
Best Time to Visit Taiwan
October to December is ideal: cooler temperatures (18-25°C in Taipei), clear skies, and the autumn colours in mountainous areas. Spring (March-May) is also pleasant. July-September is typhoon season with potential disruptions, particularly in eastern Taiwan. Taipei in summer is hot and humid (30-35°C).
Top Things to Do in Taiwan
Taipei
- Taipei 101: Once the world’s tallest building. The observation deck at 89F gives spectacular views of the city and mountains.
- National Palace Museum: Home to the world’s largest collection of Chinese artefacts, including pieces from the Imperial Palace collection.
- Jiufen Old Street: Mountain village with tea houses, lanterns, and views over the coast. Said to have inspired the look of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
- Night markets: Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market for street food (scallion pancakes, stinky tofu, bubble tea, oyster omelettes).
Beyond Taipei
- Taroko Gorge (Hualien): One of Asia’s most dramatic marble gorge landscapes. Easy to reach by train from Taipei (2.5 hours).
- Sun Moon Lake: Scenic lake in central Taiwan. Cycling the lakeside trail is a popular activity.
- Alishan (Chiayi): Mountain forests, sea of clouds, and a century-old forest railway. Sunrise from Alishan is remarkable.
- Tainan: Taiwan’s oldest city with excellent street food and historic temples.
Travel Tips for Indian Visitors to Taiwan
- EasyCard (transit card): Buy at the airport on arrival. Covers MRT metro, buses, and YouBike (city bike rental) in Taipei. Very convenient.
- New Taiwan Dollar (TWD): 1 TWD is approximately ₹2.7 INR (2026). ATMs available everywhere.
- Vegetarian food: Taiwan has an excellent tradition of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Look for restaurants marked with 素食 (vegetarian). Excellent options exist across all price ranges.
- SIM card: Buy a prepaid data SIM at Taoyuan Airport arrivals from Chunghwa Telecom or Taiwan Mobile. Coverage is excellent nationwide including mountain areas.
- Train network: Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) connects Taipei to Kaohsiung in 90 minutes. The conventional TRA (Taiwan Railways) reaches scenic spots the HSR doesn’t. Both are reliable and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions: Taiwan from India
Do Indian nationals need a visa for Taiwan?
Yes. Most Indian nationals need a visa for Taiwan. Apply at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in New Delhi or Mumbai. Those holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may qualify for visa-free entry under the Automatic Visa Exemption program. Confirm eligibility before travel.
Are there direct flights from India to Taiwan?
No. As of 2026, there are no direct non-stop flights between India and Taiwan. All routes connect via Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, or other Asian hubs.
How many days do I need for a Taiwan trip?
A week (7 days) covers Taipei comfortably with a day trip or two (Jiufen, Taroko Gorge or Sun Moon Lake). 10-12 days allows a fuller Taiwan experience including Alishan and southern Taiwan.
Is Taiwan good for vegetarian Indian tourists?
Yes. Taiwan has a very well-developed vegetarian and vegan food culture rooted in Buddhist practice. Finding vegetarian meals, including Indian-style options in Taipei, is straightforward.
What is the best transit hub for India to Taiwan flights?
Singapore and Bangkok are the most common and efficient transit points. Singapore Airlines, Scoot, and Thai Airways all offer good connections to Taipei. Compare options on happyfares.in for the best combined fare.
Book India-Taiwan Connecting Flights on HappyFares
Search connecting itineraries from your Indian city to Taipei via Singapore, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur at happyfares.in and set a price alert for your preferred dates.
