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For many years, India and the Philippines lacked direct air connectivity, meaning that the beautiful archipelago, including its vibrant capital Manila, was often off the radar for many Indian travellers. But now, the Philippines has opened its doors wider to Indian tourists with two major developments this month – Air India launching non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila, and the country’s decision to offer visa-free entry for Indian citizens.
These changes are expected to significantly boost travel to the Southeast Asian country, which has long remained an unexplored destination for Indians due to connectivity challenges.
While most travelers traditionally use Manila as a transit point to reach the famous Philippine islands, the capital itself offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and urban experiences worth exploring.
On a recent hiatus, Air India The crew explored the city and shared their list of must-do experiences with ET Travel World. For first-time travelers to get an authentic flavor of the Philippine capital. Their vision reveals a city that blends Spanish colonial heritage with contemporary Southeast Asian vitality.
The Colonial Quarter attracts history lovers
Intramuros, Manila’s 16th-century walled city, remains a hotspot for history buffs. Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and landmarks like Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and San Agustin Church offer glimpses into the Philippines’ past. Local tour operators offered bamboo bicycle tours through the neighborhood, with guides providing historical context. The area also has cafés and shops selling local handicrafts including pearl jewellery, woven bags and capiz shell items.
Waterfront projects attract visitors
The city’s waterfront has witnessed significant development in recent years. Dolomite Beach, a man-made beach along Manila Bay, has become a popular place to watch the sunset. The 3.5 km-long Manila Bay Walk features palm tree-lined paths and attracts locals and tourists alike. Several rooftop bars in the vicinity offer panoramic views of the city.
Pasig River Park, a revitalized riverside trail, has also gained major attraction. The area includes landscaped paths, bike lanes and food stalls selling local snacks, such as fish balls, grilled skewers, spring rolls, and seasonal desserts, such as putu bumbong. Vendors also offer fresh calamansi lemonade, a local citrus drink.
Local transportation provides cultural immersion
Jeepneys, colorfully decorated public transportation vehicles repurposed from World War II-era jeepneys, remain an integral part of Manila’s identity. Decorated with decals and messages, these open-air vehicles provide an authentic way to experience the city’s street life and interact with locals.
Parks and museums complete the offerings
Rizal Park, a 60-hectare green space in the center of the city, houses the Rizal Monument dedicated to the national hero. The park is known for vendors selling “dirty ice cream,” a traditional coconut milk-based ice cream available in flavors such as mango, avocado, cheesecake, and yup (purple yam). Despite its name derived from traditional street vending practices, the ice cream meets hygiene standards. The park also includes Chinese gardens that contain lotus ponds.
The National Museum complex houses the country’s artistic and natural heritage. The National Museum of Fine Arts displays Filipino masterpieces, while the Natural History Museum displays the “Tree of Life” installation that highlights the archipelago’s biodiversity.
Are you planning your trip?
Air India currently operates as the only carrier with non-stop service between Delhi and Manila, with five weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The airline deploys Airbus A321neo aircraft in business class, premium economy and economy class configurations on the route.
