Thailand is actively working to bring Indian tourists back to pre-Covid levels, as India is a significant source market for the country. Before the pandemic, nearly 2 million Indian tourists visited Thailand, making India the third-largest source market in 2019. The Tourism Authority of Thailand recently hosted over 8,000 incentive visitors from India and aims to receive at least 1.7 million Indian visitors this year.
In 2023, over 1.6 million Indian travelers visited Thailand, spending more than THB 63 billion. India is also the fastest-growing source market for Thailand, ranking fourth in terms of visitor numbers in 2023. By February 2024, India was ranked fifth among source markets, with over 300,000 tourists traveling to Thailand during that period. Bangkok was the second most popular foreign destination for Indians after Dubai.
Thailand has introduced various schemes to attract Indian travelers, including a visa waiver program that was put on hold due to Covid. Thailand’s tourism governor considers India a high-quality and high-spending market, and the country is evaluating the possibility of permanently extending visa-free facilities to Indian travelers. Other strategies to attract Indian tourists include subsidy schemes for incentive groups, joint promotions with airlines and travel agents, and focusing on repeat visitors and golfers.
The Thailand minister of tourism is focused on making Thailand a quality and safe destination that offers a valuable experience to Indian visitors. The country aims to attract over 1.7 million Indian travelers in 2024 and expects tourism receipts of over INR 185 billion. Thailand is marketing itself to various segments in India, including families, millennials, golfers, luxury travelers, incentive groups, and wedding and celebration groups. In addition to popular destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, Thailand is also promoting other destinations like Hua Hin, Kanchanaburi, and Khao Yai.
Thailand plans to launch special initiatives for senior citizens, women travelers, Gen Z, and LGBTQIA+ travelers to attract a diverse range of visitors. The country will also focus on wellness tours and adventure sports as key segments to attract Indian tourists. Thailand aims to become an all-year-round destination and deliver a valuable experience to visitors from India through its soft powers. Overall, Thailand is optimistic about reaching its tourism goals for 2024 and continuing to attract Indian tourists to the country.
