Thailand travel is booming again. But this time, it’s not the Chinese or Japanese leading the way. It’s India.
Flights from India to Thailand have jumped by over 30% this summer, making India Thailand’s second-biggest international airline market — right after China.
Before COVID hit in 2019, India was only the sixth-largest market. Back then, countries like Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore were ahead. But now, India has overtaken all of them.
China Falls, India Rises
According to a report by global research firm OAG, Thailand’s travel connection with China is still weak.
China once sent over 7.4 million seats to Thailand in summer 2019. This year, that number is down to just 4.1 million. That’s even 20% less than last year.
But while China slowed down, India stepped up.
India Sends 2.2 Million Seats
This summer, India alone offered about 2.2 million airline seats to Thailand. That’s a big jump.
To compare, Vietnam only saw a 21% rise in travel. Japan and Taiwan grew only a little. Countries like Singapore, South Korea, and Hong Kong actually sent fewer travellers this year.
But India? It’s the only major country besides China to grow strong.
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Why India Loves Thailand
There are three big reasons for this growth:
- Visa-free travel for Indians makes it easy and cheap.
- India’s growing middle class wants fun, budget-friendly holidays abroad.
- 2025 is ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, and promotions are everywhere.
Thailand is close, affordable, and full of beaches, food, and nightlife. Perfect for young Indians looking for quick getaways.
India Saves Thai Tourism
Thailand’s travel industry depends a lot on tourists. So the fall in Chinese visitors could have been a big problem.
But thanks to India (plus smaller boosts from Japan and UAE), Thailand actually added 0.4 million more seats overall this summer compared to last year.
India is the MVP of Thai Tourism in 2025
India didn’t just show up — it showed up big. From sixth place to second in just a few years, Indian travellers are now a major force in Thailand travel.
So if you’re planning your next trip and want a beach, street food, and fun on a budget — Thailand’s calling. And India’s already answering.
