Thailand has seen robust demand growth from India (Photo: TAT)
With a fortnight still to go for the year 2024 to end, the number of Indian visitors arriving in Thailand has reached a record high of 2 million, breaking the previous record of Indian arrivals in Thailand that was set in 2019.
In a press statement, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says India is a key market that is driving Thailand’s tourism growth through year-round travel and robust air connectivity.
TAT says that to mark the historic occasion, it organised a reception at time of the arrival of this year’s 2,000,000th Indian tourist at Suvarnabhumi Airport on December 16, adding that this achievement underscores India’s vital role as a key source market for Thailand’s thriving tourism industry.
TAT adds that the welcome ceremony at the airport was attended by Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Nagesh Singh, Ambassador of India to Thailand, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor, TAT and Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, TAT as well as executives from Suvarnabhumi Airport and the flag carrier, Thai Airways International.
The statement adds that passengers arriving on flight TG324 of Thai Airways from Delhi were warmly greeted with traditional Thai garlands, symbolising the nation’s renowned hospitality. Among them was the 2,000,000th Indian visitor, Chetan Gupta, who expressed delight at the recognition.
“It is with immense pleasure that we welcome the 2,000,000th Indian tourist to Thailand this year. This milestone highlights the growing popularity of Thailand among Indian travellers and the enduring cultural and economic ties between our nations. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors as they explore Thailand’s diverse and unique attractions,” says Thienthong.
“This remarkable milestone is a testament to the success of TAT’s continuous marketing efforts and collaborations with key partners in the Indian market. Through bespoke campaigns and improved connectivity, we aim to position Thailand as the destination of choice for Indian travellers, offering experiences that cater to their varied interests while ensuring exceptional hospitality,” says Kiatphaibool.
TAT adds that India is one of Thailand’s most significant tourism markets, with arrivals surpassing the 2-million mark this year. In 2019, Thailand welcomed a record 1,961,069 Indian visitors, contributing THB 80 billion (then about USD 30 billion) in revenue. By 2023, Indian arrivals rebounded strongly, reaching 1,628,542 visitors and generating THB 61.9 billion, says TAT.
The tourism promotion organisation adds that Indian travellers are drawn to Thailand year-round, with popular destinations including Bangkok, Phuket, Chon Buri, Krabi, and Phang-nga, as well as emerging spots like Surat Thani and Kanchanaburi. Favourite activities include indulging in Thai cuisine, exploring the vibrant nightlife, relaxing on pristine beaches, enjoying massages and spas, and visiting historical landmarks.
TAT says that Thailand’s strong air connectivity with India has been instrumental in fostering this growth. As of June 2024, 342 weekly flights between the two nations offered 2.9 million seats annually, representing a 92.2 pc rebound from pre-pandemic levels. Recent additions, including Indigo’s Hyderabad-Bangkok route, Thai’s Kochi-Bangkok flights, and Thai AirAsia’s Vishakhapatnam-Bangkok service, have further enhanced accessibility.
TAT says that Thailand’s visa exemption policy, which allows Indian tourists to stay for up to 60 days, has made travel even more convenient. Combined with TAT’s targetted marketing initiatives and collaborations with travel partners, these efforts continue to elevate Thailand’s appeal, cementing its position as a premier destination for Indian travellers.