The Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kolkata, in collaboration with Tourism Authority of Thailand, New Delhi Office (TAT New Delhi), proudly participated in Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) 2024, the largest tourism promotion event in eastern India, held from 12 – 14 July 2024, at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangran, Kolkata. As part of the TTF, the Consulate-General and TAT New Delhi established a captivating “Amazing Thailand Pavilion” showcasing the vibrant essence of Thailand. Thai business operators from various sectors, including Thai Airways, ITC Bangkok (tour operator), Andaman Phuket and Vana Nava, participated in the event, presenting their services and engaging with tourism operators in India. The Consulate-General also provided information on visas and related tourism details to all visitors at the pavilion.

At the event, the Consul-General highlighted several reasons why Thailand remains a top destination for Indian tourists during the inauguration ceremony and media session. Key factors contributing to this preference include Thailand's proximity, ease of travel facilitated by the visa exemption for Indian tourists, incredible convenience, and the affordable luxury experience. Additionally, Thailand offers diverse attractions such as cultural tourism, culinary delights, beautiful beaches, vibrant festivals, bustling shopping, lively nightlife, and much more. She reiterated that India is a leading source of tourism market for Thailand. In the first half of this year, over 1 million tourists from India visited Thailand, making it the third-largest source of international tourists to Thailand in 2024. She also expressed confidence in the positive trend of tourism between India and Thailand, with expectations that the number of Indian tourists will increase to 2 million by the end of this year.

To align with the government’s “IGNITE TOURISM THAILAND” policy, the Consulate-General has actively implemented various activities and projects aimed at positioning Thailand as a premier tourism hub and global destination. These efforts include supporting the ongoing initiatives of the TAT New Delhi Office, such as promoting new tourist destinations, providing VISA information and fostering collaboration with tourism operators in India. The Indian market is recognized for its significant potential to enhance tourism and revitalize Thailand's economy, given its geographical proximity, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, the visa exemption for Indian tourists has further contributed to the increasing number of visitors to Thailand.