Thailand has emerged as a top international travel destination for Indian tourists, attracting a staggering 2.1 million visitors in 2024. This represents a nearly 30% increase from 2023 and surpasses pre-pandemic numbers of under 2 million. The surge is largely credited to Thailand's visa-free policy, coupled with strategic promotional campaigns and increased flight connectivity.
Thailand Aims to Welcome 40 Million Tourists by 2025 with Tourist-Friendly Policies
Thailand has set an ambitious goal of attracting 40 million international tourists in 2025, riding on the momentum of a strong tourism rebound in 2024. Last year, the country welcomed 35.5 million visitors, marking a significant 26% increase from 2023. This surge was driven by relaxed visa policies and strategic measures aimed at revitalizing the tourism sector.
Record Growth in Tourist Arrivals and Spending
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, tourists contributed approximately 1.67 trillion baht (around $66 billion) to the economy in 2024, reflecting a 34% growth in spending compared to 2023. The final week of 2024 alone recorded over 900,000 visitors, the highest weekly figure since 2020.
The top five countries sending tourists to Thailand in 2024 were:
Indian Tourists Driving Growth
India has emerged as a key market for Thailand's tourism growth, thanks to several initiatives:
Visa-Free Entry: Introduced in November 2023, Indian tourists can now stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, with the option to extend their stay by an additional 30 days. Initially set to expire in 2024, this scheme has been extended indefinitely.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Launched in January 2025, the ETA system simplifies visa applications for Indian travellers who require permits, making the process quicker and more convenient.
Tourism’s Vital Role in Thailand’s Economy
Tourism plays a pivotal role in Thailand’s economy, contributing 12% to the country’s GDP and supporting nearly 20% of jobs nationwide. For 2025, the government anticipates tourism revenue to hit 2.8 trillion baht (approximately $78.4 billion), driven by an expected 40 million international arrivals and 200 million domestic trips.
To further enhance its tourism appeal, Thailand has launched the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025" campaign. This initiative focuses on promoting new attractions, vibrant cultural festivities, and stronger international partnerships. Additionally, the global spotlight will shine on Thailand with the release of the third season of The White Lotus, set in the country’s luxury hotels.
A Destination for All
Thailand continues to enhance its image as an inclusive and welcoming travel destination. The legalisation of same-sex marriage has strengthened its appeal among LGBTQ tourists, solidifying its position as one of the world’s most popular and inclusive travel hotspots.
Visa-Free Policy: A Game-Changer for Indian Tourists
The Thai government introduced a visa waiver program in November 2023 to boost tourism. Initially slated to end in May 2024, the program was extended indefinitely, enabling Indian tourists to enjoy visa-free travel. This policy, alongside Thailand’s renowned beaches, vibrant street food culture, and affordability, has made it an irresistible choice for travelers from India.
Airlines Capitalize on Growing Demand
The rise in Indian tourists has opened opportunities for airlines to expand their operations between the two countries. New players like Thai VietJet have launched flights on the route, while Nok Air has resumed services. IndiGo and Air India have increased their schedules, with IndiGo adding 36 additional weekly flights, including new routes such as Pune to Bangkok. Air India Express has also joined the thriving corridor.
Vietnam: Another Rising Star for Indian Tourists
Vietnam is quickly becoming a preferred destination for Indian travelers. According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, over 500,000 Indians visited the country in 2024, a remarkable jump from just 138,000 in 2022. This surge signifies a 2.6-fold growth in two years and a 297% recovery compared to pre-Covid figures. The cultural richness and affordability of Vietnam are key attractions for Indian tourists.
Singapore: A Consistent Favorite
Singapore continues to draw a significant number of Indian visitors. By October 2024, Indian tourist arrivals had already surpassed the 1 million mark, two months earlier than in 2023. The Singapore Tourism Board projects 1.2 million Indian tourists by year-end, making India the third-largest source market for Singapore. This represents a 12% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the enduring appeal of Singapore's attractions.
As Indian travelers increasingly explore international destinations, countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore are actively catering to this growing market. With visa-free policies, expanded airline routes, and targeted promotions, these destinations are not only witnessing record-breaking growth but also strengthening their ties with India’s vibrant tourism sector.
