Here is the 10 Key Points on India Rises to Third-Largest Market for Thailand with Visa-Free Travel:
- Thailand’s Record-High Indian Tourist Arrivals: In 2024, 2.1 million Indian tourists visited Thailand, a 30% increase from 2023 and surpassing pre-pandemic figures.
- Visa-Free Policy Boosts Tourism: Thailand’s visa waiver program, introduced in late 2023 and extended indefinitely in 2024, has been a key driver of the tourism surge.
- Expanded Flight Connectivity: Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Thai VietJet have increased flights between India and Thailand. IndiGo introduced 36 additional weekly flights, including new routes such as Pune to Bangkok.
- Airline Resumptions and New Players: Carriers like Nok Air have resumed India-Thailand services, while Air India Express, a low-cost carrier, entered the market.
- Vietnam’s Rising Popularity: Vietnam welcomed over 500,000 Indian tourists in 2024, marking a 2.6x increase from 2022 and a 297% recovery from pre-pandemic levels.
- India Becomes a Top Market for Vietnam: India ranked as the sixth-largest source of international visitors to Vietnam in 2024.
- Singapore’s Growth in Indian Tourism: Singapore crossed the milestone of 1 million Indian tourists by October 2024, with expectations to reach 1.2 million by year-end—a 12% increase from 2023.
- India’s Prominent Role in Regional Tourism: India is now the third-largest source market for Thailand and Singapore, underscoring its significance in the region’s tourism industry.
- Government Promotional Efforts: Thailand has actively promoted tourist-friendly initiatives since late 2023, boosting its appeal among Indian travelers.
- Regional Competition for Indian Tourists: Vietnam and Singapore, alongside Thailand, are emerging as top international destinations for Indian travelers, driven by accessible policies, enhanced connectivity, and unique experiences.
Indian Travelers Drive Tourism Boom in Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore
Thailand Attracts 2.1 Million Indian Tourists in 2024
Thailand has solidified its position as a favorite destination for Indian tourists, welcoming a record 2.1 million visitors from India in 2024. This marks a 30% increase compared to 2023 and surpasses pre-pandemic figures of just under 2 million. The surge is largely attributed to Thailand’s visa-free policy, introduced in late 2023, which was extended multiple times and is now in effect indefinitely.
Beyond visa waivers, Thailand’s appeal lies in its beaches, vibrant street food culture, and tourist-friendly initiatives. Increased connectivity through new and expanded flight routes has also played a pivotal role in the growth.
Also Read: Top 10 Winter Vacation Destinations in North India: From Ladakh to Rishikesh
Airlines Seize the Opportunity
The rise in Indian travelers has prompted airlines to expand services between the two countries. Thai VietJet is among the new players on the route, while carriers like Nok Air have resumed operations. Air India Express has joined the market, and IndiGo has introduced 36 additional weekly flights, including new routes like Pune to Bangkok. Enhanced flight schedules from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai further facilitate the growing demand.
Vietnam’s Growing Popularity Among Indians
Vietnam is also gaining traction as a sought-after destination for Indian tourists. The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism reported that over 500,000 Indians visited the country in 2024, a 2.6x increase from 2022, when the figure stood at 138,000. This surge represents a remarkable 297% recovery compared to pre-COVID levels.
India now ranks as the sixth-largest source market for Vietnam, drawn by the country’s cultural experiences, natural beauty, and increasingly convenient travel options.
Singapore Welcomes Over 1 Million Indian Visitors
Singapore remains a strong competitor, crossing the milestone of 1 million Indian tourists by October 2024—two months ahead of the previous year. By the end of 2024, the Singapore Tourism Board expects the number to reach 1.2 million, marking a 12% increase from 2023. India holds the position of Singapore’s third-largest source market, highlighting its importance in the region’s tourism landscape.
The Bigger Picture
The rising numbers of Indian travelers in Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore underscore a growing appetite for international travel among Indians. Visa-friendly policies, increased flight options, and targeted promotional efforts are transforming these destinations into hubs for Indian tourists, promising continued growth in the coming years.
Also Read: 10 Best Places to Enjoy Sunset in India
Check Latest Stories:
