Thailand continues to strengthen its position as a favourite destination for Indian travellers, with seamless entry, enhanced connectivity, and curated experiences tailored to evolving preferences. From sustainable tourism and eco-conscious initiatives to world-class wedding and MICE offerings, the country is shaping itself as both aspirational and accessible.
Voyager’s World speaks to Mr. Nattachit Oonsiam, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, in an exclusive interview to understand how Thailand is redefining travel for Indian visitors and what the future holds.
What percentage of Thailand’s international tourists currently come from India, and how do you see this number evolving?
India contributed roughly 6% of our visitors last year, about 2.1 million out of 35.5 million total international arrivals, making India our third-largest market. We expect this share to rise with seamless entry with the new digital arrival card (TDAC) and stronger air connectivity from different cities in India to Thailand; our focus is to promote Thailand as a destination for high-value traveller segments, HNI families, weddings and celebrations, as well as MICE travel, which should increase both volume and spend from India.
New Heaven Reef Conservation Program
How is Thailand promoting sustainable and eco-friendly travel experiences, especially since younger travellers are more conscious about this?
The Tourism Authority of Thailand, in collaboration with regional departments, has set key initiatives in place to encourage eco-friendly and responsible tourism, including community-based projects like the Trash Hero, Spotlight Koh Tao, and New Heaven Reef Conservation projects.
Our ‘New Thailand Vision’ prioritises value over volume and builds sustainability as an integral pillar of everything we do, and not just as a separate segment. We will be working with both media and trade partners to showcase and spotlight certified low-impact stays, community experiences, and nature routes throughout Thailand. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has also very recently launched the Thailand Green Tourism Collections, a flagship initiative under the Thailand Sustainability programme. This collection will feature 20 sustainable travel routes across 10 designated Green Cities. The campaign aligns with Thailand’s commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Tourism Goals and The New Thailand Vision 2026.
Additionally, we are proud to highlight the Krabi Prototype for Responsible Tourism, one of our flagship efforts to implement sustainable practices at a destination level and create models that can be replicated across the country.
Weddings at Phuket
With weddings and MICE tourism growing, how is Thailand positioning itself to attract this segment?
Thailand is purpose-built for big Indian celebrations and business events. The warmth of Thai hospitality, various regions to explore, and world-class hotels and amenities make Thailand a favourite for Indian weddings. India’s proximity to the country allows for shorter flight durations, making it an easy journey. With the TDAC, it is now easier to start a new chapter of your life in Thailand, accompanied by your loved ones. In addition, Thailand has a plethora of trusted and professional wedding planners, caterers, and vendors who support all wedding styles and take care of the planning and managing from start to finish, providing complete 360° support.
We also offer the Weddings and MICE Benefits Scheme, carried forward over the past few years under our initiative “Celebrations with Care,” designed to support events with trusted planners, caterers, and vendors who offer complete 360° assistance for all wedding styles, from planning to execution. Top venues and destinations such as Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui are especially popular among Indian travellers for their picturesque settings, seamless services, and ability to craft unforgettable celebrations.
Chiang Mai
Beyond Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, what hidden gems or emerging destinations would you recommend?
For quieter luxury and nature, we recommend Koh Chang–Trat for jungle-meets-marine-park escapes and Khao Lak/Phang Nga for reef-rich marine parks and laid-back beaches. We are also championing Isan for its vibrant food culture, festivals, and heritage experiences.
In addition, destinations like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Khao Yai offer rich cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and authentic local lifestyles that make for perfect off-the-beaten-path escapes, complementing the more well-known beach spots.
Amata Spring Country Club
How is Thailand tailoring its tourism strategy to meet the needs of Indian travellers?
We are deepening our partnerships with airlines, tour operators, wedding planners, and corporates to ensure Thailand remains top-of-mind for every type of traveller. This translates into family-friendly itineraries, vegetarian and vegan dining options, curated wellness and cultural circuits, event-friendly hotels and venues, and tie-ups with global and local events that resonate strongly with Indians. Alongside hassle-free entry and expanded air connectivity, we are streamlining every step of the journey. The goal is simple: to make Thailand both accessible and aspirational for high-intent Indian traveller segments.
We are also focusing on niche segments—such as wellness seekers, eco-conscious travellers, adventure enthusiasts, golfers, luxperience seekers, and cultural explorers—by curating experiences that go beyond conventional tourism and offer meaningful, authentic engagements. At the same time, we are addressing the preferences of millennials, currently the largest market in India, by designing tailored experiences like gastronomy tours, lifestyle activities, and offbeat adventures that align with their desire for discovery, self-expression, and shared experiences.
We prioritise creating deeper, more rewarding travel experiences rather than simply increasing visitor numbers. Our strategy also highlights Thailand’s soft powers through the 5 MUSTS—Must See, Must Eat, Must Experience, Must Stay, and Must Share—guiding travellers toward curated experiences that resonate with their interests. Looking ahead, we are preparing for exciting collaborations with global lifestyle events such as Tomorrowland in 2026, ensuring Thailand remains a top destination for younger, experience-driven travellers seeking substance, connection, and memorable moments.
Bangkok Marriott, Rooftop Bar
Where do you see tourism in Thailand heading in the next few years for Indian travellers—what will feel new and exciting?
From our end, you’ll see more curated, low-impact journeys into cities beyond the regular, richer wellness and culinary circuits, sports-led trips during Thailand’s Grand Tourism & Sports Year, and even smarter planning tools. It’s Thailand you love, but with clearer sustainability standards, more authentic community touchpoints, and a deeper welcome for Indian travellers, wedding groups, and corporate incentives.