Thailand Travel Surges with Extended Visa Exemption for Indians

Thailand has become a hotspot for Indian tourists, with a nearly 50 percent surge in travel bookings following the recent extension of the visa exemption program. The Thai government’s decision to allow visa-free entry for Indian tourists until November 11, 2024, has fueled this boom in vacation plans to Thailand, coupled with stable airfare prices showing a modest 5 percent increase.

Online travel platforms are witnessing a remarkable uptick in interest for Thailand trips. According to ixigo, a leading travel aggregator, searches for Thailand vacations soared by an impressive 90 percent in May 2024 compared to the same period last year. Experts attribute this surge directly to the extended visa exemption, which translates into significant cost savings for travelers.

Rajiv Kale, President and Country Head of Holidays, MICE, Visa at Thomas Cook (India) Limited, emphasized the impact of this policy change on travel demand. He highlighted that the combination of visa-free entry and stable airfares to popular Thai destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi is a major advantage for value-conscious Indian travelers, especially families and groups.

The visa exemption has also prompted a rise in spontaneous bookings. SOTC Travel reported a surge of over 30 percent in last-minute bookings, reflecting the appeal of hassle-free travel to Thailand.

Moreover, there is growing interest in exploring lesser-known destinations beyond the usual tourist circuits. Daniel D’souza, President and Country Head of Holidays at SOTC Travel, noted increasing demand for places like Koh Samui, Chiang Mai/Rai, Koh Phangan, and historical sites such as Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.

While budget-conscious millennials and Gen Z travelers are drawn by cost savings, families and luxury travelers are seeking premium stays and resorts, indicating Thailand’s broad appeal across diverse travel preferences and budgets.

Visa-free travel offers a streamlined experience, eliminating the need for visa applications and saving both time and money for tourists. MakeMyTrip, a leading online travel agency, highlighted a 33 percent growth in bookings to newly visa-free and e-visa destinations for Indians, including Thailand.

Overall, the extended visa exemption for Indian tourists is reshaping travel dynamics, making Thailand an even more attractive and accessible destination. As summer unfolds, Thailand beckons with its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, promising unforgettable experiences for Indian travelers seeking a rejuvenating getaway.