Thailand Leads Push to Strengthen Two-Way Travel Between India and ASEAN

Thailand

As part of the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted the ASEAN-India Forum from 22–25 July in Bangkok.

Thailand, acting as the Lead Country for Promotion and Marketing, is driving efforts to enhance two-way travel between India and ASEAN member states, aiming to position the region as a premier destination for Indian tourists.

Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and South Pacific, emphasized: “Within the ASEAN-India cooperation framework, tourism has long been a pillar of mutual growth. Thailand sees tremendous potential in strengthening two-way travel between India and ASEAN—delivering shared benefits across the region.”

The forum, held on 23 July under the theme “Journey of Opportunities: Ignite Indian Travel to ASEAN,” aligned with the ASEAN-India Cooperation Work Plan 2023–2027 and brought together senior policymakers and tourism leaders for a day of strategic dialogue.

Opening remarks from TAT were followed by a keynote session featuring Ms Verna Eseralda C. Buensuceso, Chair of ASEAN NTOs; H.E. Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN; and H.E. Mr Nagesh Singh, Ambassador of India to Thailand. Speakers underscored the importance of regional cooperation and adapting to evolving traveler preferences.

Two panel discussions shaped the forum’s agenda. The morning session focused on the rising influence of Indian Millennials and Gen Z, featuring insights from Booking.com, Thai AirAsia, Radisson Hotels and Resorts, and a well-known Indian travel influencer. Speakers highlighted the increasing demand for personalized, socially-driven experiences and culturally immersive, event-based travel.

In the afternoon, attention turned to the booming Indian wedding and honeymoon market, valued at over US$130 billion. Tourism stakeholders from across ASEAN discussed the region’s ability to host grand, multi-day celebrations requiring culturally specific services such as vegetarian catering and high-end hospitality.

The forum concluded with a collaborative workshop on “Partnership Marketing Promotion.” ASEAN and Indian participants addressed shared challenges and explored strategies to enhance visa processes, improve connectivity, create appealing travel packages, and develop niche tourism products—key steps to boosting two-way travel and market readiness.

Following the forum, delegates took part in a technical tour to Pattaya in Chon Buri Province, a popular destination for Indian travelers. The visit highlighted Thailand’s readiness to deliver customized, high-quality tourism experiences.

In 2023, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia were among the top 15 destinations for Indian travelers. By 2024, Thailand welcomed over two million Indian visitors, securing India’s place among its top three inbound tourism markets.