Month: February 2026

Thai Pavilion unveils “Healing is the New Luxury” campaign under the “New Thailand” strategy to attract premium Indian travellers

New Delhi, 26 February 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is further strengthening tourism collaboration with India through an impactful cultural and business showcase at the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2026. The event is being held from 25–27 February at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi.

Celebrating its 33rd edition, SATTE hosts more than 35,000 attendees and over 1,400 exhibitors. Marking its 17th participation, TAT is facilitating extensive business discussions between Thai tourism suppliers and Indian travel buyers within a 312-square-metre Thailand Pavilion. Designed around the concept “Palette of Wellness, Your Ultimate Healuxe,” the pavilion reflects Thailand’s global “Healing is the New Luxury” campaign, positioning the country as a leading high-value wellness and restorative travel destination.

The pavilion officially opened on 25 February and was inaugurated by H.E. Ms. Chavanart Thangsumphant, Ambassador of Thailand to India, alongside Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Asia and South Pacific); Mr. Chuwit Sirivajjakul, Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning; and senior TAT executives. The occasion reaffirmed Thailand’s dedication to deepening tourism cooperation with India through a quality-focused growth approach.

A total of 50 Thai tourism businesses are participating, including hotels, resorts, tour operators, and leisure attractions. Over 5,000 pre-arranged business meetings are scheduled across the three-day exhibition.

The pavilion also features participation from Thai AirAsia, Thai Vietjet Air, and Thai Lion Air, as well as key industry organisations such as the Phuket Tourist Association, Samui Tourism Promotion Association, and the Association of Thai Travel Agents.

On the opening day, Ms. Pattaraanong hosted a media briefing outlining the objectives of the “Healing is the New Luxury” campaign. Joined by senior executives, she highlighted Thailand’s commitment to generating higher-value tourism growth rooted in wellness, culture, and sustainability—core pillars of its India market strategy.

She emphasised that India remains a strategically important and high-potential source market. Through the “New Thailand” vision, the country is transitioning towards a balanced tourism ecosystem that prioritises value over volume. The campaign invites Indian travellers to experience transformative journeys that promote well-being, meaningful connections, and long-term benefits for local communities and the tourism industry.

Under this vision, TAT is advancing its “Amazing 5-Economy” framework, aligning tourism offerings with global lifestyle trends in wellness, culture, shopping, and seamless digital travel experiences.

India continues to rank among Thailand’s top inbound markets, fuelled largely by Millennials and Gen Z travellers seeking customised, restorative travel experiences. Prominent segments include family travellers, wellness seekers, wedding groups, golfers, women travellers, seniors, and emerging niche audiences focused on rejuvenation and adventure.

While established destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai remain popular, Thailand is also encouraging exploration of secondary cities including Kanchanaburi, Khao Yai, Chiang Rai, and Sukhothai. This strategy aims to inspire repeat visits and foster deeper destination engagement.

TAT’s participation at SATTE forms part of a comprehensive India-focused strategy managed by its New Delhi and Mumbai offices. These offices implement targeted promotions for corporate and wedding travel, collaborate with major Indian travel platforms on joint campaigns, participate in trade and consumer exhibitions, and organise media familiarisation trips—collectively strengthening Thailand’s brand positioning in the Indian market.

The results remain strong. In 2025, Thailand welcomed 2,487,319 Indian visitors, representing a 16.82% year-on-year increase and generating 93.86 billion Baht in tourism revenue. Between 1 January and 23 February 2026, 382,768 Indian travellers visited Thailand, making India the fourth-largest source market after China, Malaysia, and Russia.

For 2026, Thailand is targeting over 2.55 million Indian arrivals and approximately 97.86 billion Baht in revenue, reinforcing India’s importance within Thailand’s tourism landscape.

Air connectivity continues to boost competitiveness. In 2025, 10 airlines operated direct routes between India and Thailand, offering 19,132 flights and more than 3.83 million seats. Improved connectivity from major Indian cities to Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi, along with visa-exemption policies allowing Indian passport holders to stay up to 60 days, further supports travel growth.

TAT’s India offices have also been closely monitoring the recent Nipah virus cases reported in West Bengal. Authorities confirmed the situation remains under control with no new cases, and travel activity across India continues without disruption to tourism or trade participation.

Source: https://www.tatnews.org/2026/02/thailand-strengthens-india-tourism-ties-at-satte-2026-in-new-delhi/ 

The Tourism Ministry applauds Thai para athletes for dominant performances at regional and global competitions, reaffirming government commitment to long-term para sports development and international excellence.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has praised Thai para athletes for their exceptional performances at major international sporting events. Permanent Secretary Natthriya Thaweevong extended congratulations to athletes, coaches, sports associations, and officials who contributed to Thailand’s success at the 13th ASEAN Para Games, the 5th Asian Youth Para Games, as well as recent world and Asian championships.

Speaking at a ceremony held to award prize money and formally recognize the achievements, Natthriya conveyed appreciation on behalf of the government and the Thai public. She noted that the athletes’ performances brought pride to the nation and highlighted Thailand’s strong capabilities on the international sporting stage. Their success, she said, was driven by discipline and determination, supported by close cooperation among coaches, officials, and partner organizations.

Thailand emerged as the overall top medal-winning nation at the 13th ASEAN Para Games, securing 175 gold, 155 silver, and 156 bronze medals. More than 128 million baht in prize money was distributed among four national sports associations. Meanwhile, at the 5th Asian Youth Para Games, Thai youth para athletes finished fourth overall, earning 36 gold, 36 silver, and 33 bronze medals.

Additional prize money was also awarded for strong performances at world and Asian championship events across various sports. The permanent secretary expressed hope that this recognition would motivate athletes and their support teams to further elevate their performance, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to the long-term, systematic development of para sports in Thailand.