Thailand Leads Effort to Boost Two-Way Travel Between India and ASEAN

ASEAN-India Forum

ASEAN-India Forum Highlights Strategic Tourism Cooperation

From 22 to 25 July 2025, Bangkok hosted the ASEAN-India Forum, a key event under the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025. As the Lead Country for Promotion and Marketing, Thailand spearheaded discussions focused on strengthening two-way travel between India and ASEAN countries, aiming to unlock new market opportunities and enhance regional tourism readiness.

Uniting Policymakers and Industry Leaders

The forum, themed “Journey of Opportunities: Ignite Indian Travel to ASEAN,” gathered senior policymakers, tourism leaders, and industry experts to explore evolving traveller trends and strategic collaboration. Keynote speakers included ASEAN officials and the Indian Ambassador to Thailand, who underscored the importance of tourism as a pillar for regional growth and cultural exchange.
Rising Influence of Indian Millennials and Gen Z Travellers

Discussions spotlighted the growing Indian Millennial and Gen Z traveller segments, known for seeking personalised, social media-driven, and culturally immersive experiences. Representatives from Booking.com, Thai AirAsia, Radisson Hotels, and leading Indian travel influencers shared insights on catering to this dynamic audience with innovative, event-focused tourism offerings.

Tapping Into the Booming Indian Wedding and Honeymoon Market

The forum also highlighted the lucrative Indian wedding and honeymoon market, valued at over US$130 billion. ASEAN and Thai tourism leaders discussed developing multi-day destination weddings with culturally sensitive services, including vegetarian cuisine and luxury hospitality, positioning ASEAN as a top choice for Indian couples.

Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai

Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and South Pacific, stated: “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.”

Partnership Marketing and Market Readiness

A workshop on Partnership Marketing Promotion focused on overcoming visa, connectivity, packaging, and niche market challenges. The collaborative approach aims to improve bilateral tourism flows, enabling seamless, high-quality travel experiences between India and ASEAN countries.

Showcasing Thailand’s Tourism Infrastructure in Pattaya

Following the forum, delegates toured Pattaya, a top destination for Indian travellers, highlighting Thailand’s capacity to deliver tailored and premium tourism experiences. Thailand’s success is evident—by 2024, it welcomed over two million Indian visitors, ranking India among its top three inbound markets.

Thailand’s Role as a Leading ASEAN Destination for Indian Travellers

ASEAN-India Forum

Thailand, alongside Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, consistently ranks within the top 15 destinations for Indian tourists. The strengthened ASEAN-India cooperation underlines Thailand’s pivotal role in expanding and enriching this high-potential market through innovative strategies and meaningful partnerships.

For more information, visit:
Tourism Authority of Thailand

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