With New Year 2025 around the corner, Thailand is witnessing a surge in Indian tourists heading to destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. This trend isn’t limited to New Year’s Eve; Thailand remains a year-round favorite for Indian travelers. But what makes Thailand such a popular choice? Let’s explore the reasons behind this growing preference.
Bachelors’ First Preference
Thailand has long been a hotspot for bachelors, offering vibrant nightlife, scenic beaches, and affordable travel options. Cities like Bangkok and Pattaya are known for their buzzing party scenes, making them ideal for solo travelers or groups of friends seeking an exciting New Year celebration.
We visited Thailand this year with my family of three, opting for a pre-booked tour package to Phuket that cost us around Rs 1.2 lakh for five days.
Ashish Srivastava, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Family Travelers: A Practical Choice
For families, Thailand is an international destination that balances affordability with an enriching experience. Ashish Srivastava from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, shared his story:
“We chose Thailand over Indian destinations like Goa or the Andaman Islands because the expenses were similar, so we thought, why not go international?”
Thailand offers family-friendly attractions, such as theme parks, cultural sites, and pristine beaches, making it a versatile destination for travelers of all ages.
Group Tourists: Fun and Budget-Friendly
Group travel is another key driver for Thailand’s popularity among Indians. Tour operators offer attractive group packages, often including airfare, accommodation, and guided tours, making it a hassle-free option for friends or extended families. Group travelers also benefit from shared expenses, making the trip more economical.
Visa-Free Entry and E-Visa Convenience
Thailand’s decision to extend visa-free entry for Indian travelers for up to 60 days has significantly boosted its appeal. Starting January 1, 2025, Thailand will implement an electronic visa (e-visa) system for stays exceeding 60 days. This system simplifies the application process, eliminating the need for passport submission at embassies.
The Thai embassy in Delhi clarified, “The 60-day visa exemption for tourism and short business purposes for Indian ordinary passport holders remains effective until further announcement.” This initiative underscores Thailand’s commitment to prioritizing India as a key source market.
Cost-Effective International Travel
For many Indians, Thailand offers an international travel experience at a cost comparable to popular domestic destinations like Goa. The availability of budget airlines, affordable accommodations, and reasonably priced food makes Thailand an attractive option.
India as a Major Source Market
India is the third-largest source market for Thailand, contributing nearly 6% of its 28.8 million visitors annually, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. This statistic highlights the growing bond between Indian tourists and Thailand.
Thailand’s unique blend of affordability, accessibility, and diverse attractions makes it a top choice for Indian travelers during New Year and beyond. Whether it’s for bachelors seeking adventure, families looking for a balanced vacation, or groups wanting a fun and economical trip, Thailand continues to charm its visitors.
