Russia
Strategic Energy, Defense, and Connectivity Partner with Emerging AI and Logistics Hub
- Band cut
- ≥ 80
- Countries in band
- 20
The seven measures behind Russia's 83
Each is scored 0–100, where higher is always better. Open a row to read the analysis behind its number.
| Measure | Score | Position on 0–100 |
|---|---|---|
| 92 | ||
| 97 | ||
| 93 | ||
| 80 | ||
| 70 | ||
| 75 | ||
| 65 |
Bonus considerations — useful, but they do not affect the score
These two are worked out for every country as context for a trip. They are not part of the 83 above, and nothing here can move it in either direction.
Higher means cheaper for an Indian traveller.
Higher means easier to eat vegetarian.
Why Russia?
The standing assessment behind the public sentiment reading of 93, rewritten at each refresh.
Recent news and public discourse from Russia over the last 30 days affirm an exceptionally warm and robust sentiment towards India, deeply rooted in a shared history of trust and mutual respect. High-level diplomatic engagements and tangible cooperative initiatives continue to reinforce this 'special and privileged strategic partnership'. Russia consistently recognizes India as a 'trusted friend' and a crucial global player, often highlighting its independent foreign policy.
Diplomatically, the rhetoric remains highly positive. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions on July 29, 2026, confirming the ongoing development of cooperation across various sectors and on global and regional agendas. Russia and India are actively collaborating within multilateral frameworks such as BRICS and SCO, with India inviting Russia to the upcoming BRICS summit in New Delhi in September. Economic ties are deepening, with both nations aiming for full de-dollarization of mutual trade and a target of $100 billion in annual trade by 2030. Military-industrial cooperation remains a cornerstone, with discussions on licensed production of advanced fighters like the Su-57E. Crucially, President Vladimir Putin's statements from early June 2026, dismissing concerns about India's cooperation with the U.S. and emphasizing the futility of external pressure on Prime Minister Modi, strongly align with the 'India's internal matter' rule, demonstrating profound respect for India's autonomy and significantly boosting the positive sentiment. The recent ratification of a labor migration agreement by the Russian Duma further indicates broadening bilateral ties. While India did summon Russia's charge d'affaires on July 21, 2026, over the MV Golden Leo incident in the Black Sea, expressing 'serious concern' over the loss of Indian lives, Russia maintained ongoing contacts to clarify its position, indicating a contained diplomatic friction within a broader framework of cooperation.
Reasons to visit
Russia, a nation of colossal scale and profound historical depth, offers an incredibly distinctive and enriching travel experience for Indian tourists. While global perceptions regarding 'friendliness' and 'safety' can vary, it's crucial to acknowledge the deep-rooted historical alliance and mutual respect shared between India and Russia. This long-standing bilateral relationship often translates into a surprisingly warm and welcoming reception for Indian visitors, especially within cultural institutions and major urban centres. Russians, though often perceived as reserved, possess a strong sense of national pride and hospitality, often eager to share their rich heritage with respectful international guests. Furthermore, safety within the primary tourist hubs like Moscow and St. Petersburg is generally robust, with visible state presence ensuring order and security in areas frequented by international travelers, allowing for confident and unhindered exploration of its magnificent attractions.
Beyond initial perceptions, Russia's enduring appeal for those seeking profound cultural immersion and unique adventures is undeniable. It's a country that captivates with its epic grandeur and dramatic contrasts, from the glittering onion domes of St. Basil's Cathedral and the opulent halls of the Hermitage Museum, to the stoic, raw beauty of the Siberian wilderness. For Indian travelers, Russia presents a truly unparalleled opportunity to delve into a legacy of powerful empires, artistic genius, groundbreaking scientific achievement, and revolutionary spirit that has significantly shaped global history. The sheer uniqueness of the experiences available, coupled with a growing infrastructure catering to diverse tourism needs, makes it an intellectually stimulating, visually breathtaking, and remarkably different destination from the typical European itinerary, promising memories that last a lifetime.
Where Indian travellers go
- 1Moscow
- 2St. Petersburg
- 3Lake Baikal (Siberia)
Worth knowing
- Russia is the largest country in the world by landmass, spanning 11 time zones and covering over one-eighth of Earth's inhabited land area.
- Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, containing approximately 20% of the world's unfrozen fresh water.
- The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world, stretching over 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles) from Moscow to Vladivostok.
In the record
- Band
- Strategic Partner
- Trade rank
- 4
- Trade volume
- $49.4B
- Share of India’s trade
- 4.32%
- GDP
- $2.56T