BANGKOK-
Thailand looks to welcome an unprecedented number of Indian tourists in 2025, building on the record-breaking 2.1 million visitors from India in 2024, which marked a 30% surge from the previous year. With India now Thailand’s third-largest tourism market, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is doubling down on strategies to sustain this momentum.
The current extension of Thailand’s visa on arrival exemption policy for Indian travelers, allowing stays of up to 60 days, remains a big part of this growth. Introduced in November 2023, the policy has made Thailand an increasingly attractive destination for Indians. Enhanced flight connectivity, with airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Thai VietJet adding routes and boosting weekly flights, is expected to further ease travel in 2025. Popular destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya are gearing up for another busy year, with Indian tourists drawn to Thailand’s beaches, festivals like Songkran, and famous nightlife.
In Pattaya, increased focus on festivals that attract Indians like Holi and Diwali are also a key part of the growth, while also being increasingly popular with Thais and local residents.
“India is a priority market for us,” said TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool. “Their enthusiasm for Thailand’s culture and experiences aligns perfectly with our goal of sustainable, high-value tourism in 2025.” Last year, Indian visitors contributed significantly to Thailand’s 1.66 trillion baht ($47 billion) tourism revenue, a figure expected to grow as the country rolls out new marketing campaigns targeting Indian families, honeymooners, and millennials. Collaborations with Indian influencers and tie-ins with popular media are planned to maintain Thailand’s appeal.
However, the influx of tourists brings challenges. Overtourism concerns in Phuket and environmental strains have prompted calls for greener initiatives. For 2025, Thailand is promoting lesser-known destinations like Chiang Mai and Krabi to Indian travelers, alongside eco-conscious travel packages. Industry experts predict India could send over 2.5 million visitors this year.
TPN Media notes that there have been some proposals to reduce the 60 day visa on arrival, as we mentioned here, to various nationalities and countries but tourism experts have said this would not greatly impact Indian tourism, as the majority of actual tourists often only stay a few days to a week or two from India, due to the close proximity of the two countries.
