Paraguay, the heart of South America, offers Indian travelers an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Landlocked between Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia, Paraguay boasts Jesuit ruins, vast wetlands, and a unique blend of indigenous and colonial cultures. As one of South America's least visited countries, Paraguay provides adventurous Indian tourists with genuine cultural encounters and unspoiled natural beauty.
This guide covers everything Indian travelers need to know about visiting Paraguay - from visa requirements and health precautions to must-see attractions and cultural insights in this hidden gem of South America.
Why Paraguay is an Interesting Destination for Indian Tourists
- Authentic Experience: Few tourists mean genuine cultural interactions
- Jesuit Missions: UNESCO World Heritage ruins from 17th-18th centuries
- Natural Wonders: Pantanal wetlands, Iguazu Falls nearby
- Unique Culture: Blend of Spanish and Guarani traditions
- Affordable Prices: One of South America's most budget-friendly countries
- Indian Community: Small but established Indian diaspora in Asunción
How to Travel from India to Paraguay
Flight Options
There are no direct flights from India to Paraguay. Common routes include:
- Via Europe/US: Air Europa (via Madrid), American Airlines (via Miami)
- Via South America: LATAM via São Paulo or Buenos Aires
- Main Airport: Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) in Asunción
- Alternative Entry: Fly to Buenos Aires or São Paulo and take bus
Travel Tip: Consider combining Paraguay with visits to Brazil or Argentina to make long flights worthwhile.
Approximate Flight Duration & Cost
| Route |
Duration |
Cost (Round-trip) |
| Delhi/Mumbai to Asunción |
24–30 hours (including layovers) |
₹80,000–₹1,40,000 (varies by season) |
Best Time to Visit Paraguay
| Season |
Months |
Pros & Cons |
| Dry Season (Winter) |
May–September |
Pleasant temperatures, best for travel |
| Wet Season (Summer) |
October–April |
Hot and humid, some areas inaccessible |
Festivals to Experience:
- Nanduti Festival (July): Celebrates Paraguay's famous lace
- Trans-Chaco Rally (September): South America's toughest motor race
- San Juan Festival (June): Traditional bonfires and games
Paraguay Travel Budget for Indian Tourists
Paraguay is relatively affordable compared to neighboring countries:
| Expense |
Budget (₹) |
Mid-Range (₹) |
Luxury (₹) |
| Accommodation (per night) |
₹2,000–₹3,500 (Hostels/guesthouses) |
₹4,000–₹7,000 (3-star hotels) |
₹10,000+ (5-star hotels) |
| Food (per day) |
₹500–₹1,000 (Street food/local eateries) |
₹1,500–₹2,500 (Restaurants) |
₹3,500+ (Fine dining) |
| Transport (local) |
₹300–₹800 (Buses) |
₹1,500–₹2,500 (Taxis) |
₹4,000+ (Private driver) |
| Attractions (per day) |
₹500–₹1,500 (City sights, markets) |
₹2,000–₹4,000 (Guided tours) |
₹6,000+ (Private excursions) |
Total Estimated Cost for 10 Days:
- Budget Traveler: ₹60,000–₹90,000
- Mid-Range Traveler: ₹1,20,000–₹1,80,000
- Luxury Traveler: ₹2,50,000+
Where to Stay in Paraguay
1. Asunción (Capital City)
- Budget: Black Cat Hostel (₹2,500/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Chaco (₹6,000/night)
- Luxury: Bourbon Conmebol Asunción (₹12,000/night)
2. Encarnación (Jesuit Missions)
- Mid-Range: Hotel de la Misión (₹5,500/night)
3. Ciudad del Este (Shopping/Iguazu Access)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Munich (₹5,000/night)
Top Attractions & Must-Do Activities
- Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad: UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Itaipu Dam: One of the world's largest hydroelectric plants
- Asunción City Tour: Palacio de los López, Costanera riverfront
- Chaco Region: Wildlife spotting in the vast dry forests
- Monday Market in Asunción: Traditional crafts and street food
- Ybycuí National Park: Waterfalls and subtropical forests
- Paraguayan Cuisine: Try chipa, sopa paraguaya, and tereré (cold herbal tea)
Paraguayan Food Guide for Indians
Paraguayan cuisine is hearty with corn, meat, and cheese as staples. Vegetarian options are limited:
- Chipa: Cheese bread made from cassava (vegetarian)
- Sopa Paraguaya: Cornbread with cheese (vegetarian)
- Asado: Paraguayan barbecue (non-veg)
- Mbejú: Cassava pancake (vegetarian option)
- Tereré: National drink - cold herbal tea (vegetarian)
- Indian Food: Few options - mainly in Asunción
Tip: Learn to say "soy vegetariano/a" (I'm vegetarian) as many dishes contain hidden meat products.
Visa Requirements for Indian Travelers
Do Indians Need a Visa for Paraguay?
✅ Yes, Indian passport holders require a visa.
Types of Visas
- Tourist Visa: Up to 90 days stay
- Business Visa: For commercial purposes
How to Apply
- Application: Submit at Paraguayan embassy in Delhi or consulates
- Processing Time: 10-15 working days
Required Documents
- ✔ Passport (6 months validity + blank pages)
- ✔ Completed application form
- ✔ 2 passport photos
- ✔ Flight itinerary
- ✔ Hotel reservations
- ✔ Bank statements (minimum ₹1 lakh balance)
- ✔ Travel insurance
- ✔ Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Visa Fees
Tourist Visa: ₹6,000–₹8,000 (single entry)
Important: Some nationalities can enter Paraguay via land borders without visa, but Indians must obtain visa in advance.
Important: If you need help with your Paraguay Visa application, please visit our website and fill out the assistance form. (👉
www.executivevisaservices.in)
FAQs for Indian Travelers
1. Is Paraguay safe for Indian tourists?
Generally safe, but exercise normal precautions against petty theft in cities. Rural areas are very safe.
2. What's the currency in Paraguay?
Guaraní (PYG). 1 PYG ≈ ₹0.012 (check current rates). US dollars accepted in tourist areas.
3. Do people speak English in Paraguay?
Limited English outside tourist areas. Spanish and Guarani are official languages. Learn basic Spanish phrases.
4. What vaccinations do I need?
Yellow fever recommended. Also consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines.
5. How's the Indian community in Paraguay?
Small but established, mainly in Asunción. A few Indian restaurants available.
6. What's the best way to travel within Paraguay?
Long-distance buses are comfortable and affordable. Domestic flights connect few cities.
Final Thoughts: Visiting Paraguay as an Indian Traveler
Paraguay offers Indian tourists an authentic South American experience away from the crowds. While it requires some effort to reach, the country rewards visitors with warm hospitality, fascinating history, and unspoiled natural beauty. The blend of indigenous Guarani culture with Spanish colonial influences creates a unique national identity found nowhere else.
For Indians seeking an offbeat destination with affordable prices, Paraguay's Jesuit ruins, vast wilderness areas, and vibrant street markets provide memorable experiences. Combine your visit with neighboring Brazil or Argentina to make the most of your South American adventure.