June 20, 2025 | Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2025, welcoming over one million Indian tourists by mid-June, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This surge underscores Thailand’s enduring appeal as a top travel destination for Indian travelers, driven by visa-free policies, enhanced air connectivity, and diverse attractions. With India ranking among Thailand’s top three tourism markets, this achievement signals robust bilateral travel growth and sets the stage for a record-breaking year. Here’s why Thailand continues to captivate Indian tourists and what’s fueling this tourism boom.

A Milestone in India-Thailand Tourism

By mid-June 2025, Thailand surpassed the one-million mark for Indian tourist arrivals, a feat that highlights the kingdom’s growing popularity among Indian travelers. Building on a stellar 2024, when Thailand welcomed 2.1 million Indian visitors among 35 million international tourists, this early 2025 milestone reflects a steady rise in outbound travel from India. The TAT attributes this success to strategic initiatives, including visa exemptions, digital innovations, and targeted marketing campaigns aimed at Indian audiences.

“Thailand’s appeal as a year-round destination for Indian travelers is stronger than ever,” said TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. “We are thrilled to welcome over one million Indian tourists by mid-June 2025, a testament to our shared cultural ties and Thailand’s diverse offerings.”

Key Drivers of the Tourism Surge

Several factors have contributed to the unprecedented influx of Indian tourists to Thailand in 2025:

1. Visa-Free Access for Indian Nationals

Thailand’s visa exemption program, allowing Indian tourists to stay up to 60 days without a visa, has significantly reduced travel barriers. Extended indefinitely after its initial rollout in November 2023, this policy has made Thailand an accessible and hassle-free destination for Indian travelers. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a digital system streamlining immigration processes, further enhances the arrival experience by reducing wait times at airports.

2. Enhanced Air Connectivity

Improved air links between India and Thailand have played a pivotal role in boosting arrivals. As of June 2025, over 350 weekly flights connect major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and emerging hubs like Surat, Rajkot, and Nagpur to Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai. Indian carriers such as IndiGo and SpiceJet, alongside Thai Airways and Thai AirAsia, offer competitive fares and convenient schedules, making travel more affordable and accessible.

3. Diverse Attractions for Every Traveler

Thailand’s multifaceted appeal caters to a wide range of Indian tourists. From the bustling streets of Bangkok and the serene beaches of Phuket and Krabi to the cultural richness of Chiang Mai and the wellness retreats of Koh Samui, Thailand offers something for everyone. Indian travelers are particularly drawn to:

• Cultural Experiences: Shared Buddhist heritage attracts visitors to iconic temples like Wat Arun and Wat Pho.
• Culinary Delights: Thailand’s vibrant street food scene and fine-dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants, resonate with Indian foodies.
• Luxury and Wellness: Spa retreats, Ayurvedic resorts, and private island stays appeal to high-value travelers seeking relaxation.
• Adventure and Shopping: From water sports in Pattaya to world-class shopping in Bangkok’s malls, Thailand delivers diverse experiences.

4. Rise of Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities

While metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru continue to drive tourism, emerging cities such as Surat, Rajkot, Nagpur, and Nashik are fueling a new wave of travelers. These regions show growing interest in luxury travel, wellness holidays, and curated experiences, prompting TAT to expand outreach through localized marketing and regional travel expos.

5. Targeted Marketing and Promotions

TAT’s tailored campaigns, including roadshows, influencer collaborations, and partnerships with Indian travel agencies, have deepened engagement with the Indian market. Events like the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign highlight Thailand’s unique offerings, encouraging longer stays and higher spending. These efforts align with TAT’s focus on high-value, sustainable tourism.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The influx of Indian tourists has significantly boosted Thailand’s economy, with tourism accounting for nearly 20% of the country’s GDP. In 2024, Indian arrivals generated over 80 billion baht in revenue, and 2025 is expected to surpass this figure. Beyond economics, the surge strengthens cultural ties, with shared Buddhist heritage and historical connections fostering people-to-people bonds. Indian businesses operating in Thailand and growing trade relations further enhance this relationship.

Posts on X reflect the excitement surrounding this milestone, with users noting the affordability, visa-free entry, and direct flights from Tier-2 cities as key drivers. One user remarked, “India is truly Thailand’s tourism engine this year!”

Looking Ahead: A Record-Breaking Year

With the peak travel season approaching, TAT anticipates Indian arrivals could reach 2.5 million by the end of 2025, surpassing the 2024 record of 2.1 million. Thailand’s ambitious goal of welcoming 39 million international tourists in 2025, generating 2.8 trillion baht in revenue, is well within reach, with India playing a pivotal role. Initiatives like eco-tourism promotion in lesser-known regions such as Koh Chang and Kanchanaburi aim to sustain this growth while preserving Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage.

Why Thailand Remains a Top Choice for Indian NRIs

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Thailand’s proximity, affordability, and diverse experiences make it an ideal getaway. Whether planning a family vacation, a wellness retreat, or a cultural exploration, Thailand’s seamless travel policies and warm hospitality ensure a memorable trip. NRIs can take advantage of visa-free entry and direct flights from India to plan spontaneous holidays or extended stays.

Conclusion

Thailand’s milestone of welcoming over one million Indian tourists by mid-June 2025 cements its status as a premier destination for Indian travelers. With visa-free access, robust air connectivity, and a rich tapestry of experiences, Thailand continues to captivate Indian hearts. As bilateral tourism ties flourish, NRIs and Indian travelers alike can look forward to exploring the “Land of Smiles” in 2025 and beyond. Stay tuned to NRI Globe for the latest travel updates and tips for your next Thai adventure.