For decades, the story of Indian travel to Thailand was written in volume. In 2025, that story hit a record-breaking chapter as 2.48 million Indian tourists crossed the border—a 17% year-on-year increase that solidified India as one of the kingdom's top three global source markets.
But as the 2026 travel season approaches, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is shifting the narrative. The goal is no longer just how many people arrive, but how they experience the destination.
“Our approach for 2026 is firmly centered on value-led growth,” says Nattachit Oonsiam, Director of the TAT Mumbai Office. “We expect tourism to grow by a minimum of 10% year-on-year, but with a stronger focus on quality, length of stay, and experience depth rather than volume alone.”
The Pivot to 'Secondary' Gems
A major pillar of the 2026 strategy is a deliberate move to ease pressure on hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. While these hubs remain the primary gateway for the millions of travelers arriving via direct flights from Indian metros like Delhi and Mumbai, the TAT is now steering visitors toward "secondary destinations."
The initiative aims to promote "slow travel"—longer itineraries that immerse travelers in local heritage while ensuring tourism revenue reaches smaller communities.
“Travelers are becoming more intentional,” Oonsiam explains. “We expect stronger demand for wellness, regional exploration, and hidden places, particularly among millennials and families.”
Hidden Gems to Add to Your 2026 Itinerary
For those looking to venture beyond the neon lights and crowded shores, Oonsiam highlights ten destinations that offer "depth, character, and a strong sense of place":
- Nan: A sanctuary for heritage lovers known for its ancient temples and a townscape that seems frozen in time.
- Mae Hong Son & Ban Rak Thai: Nestled in the mountains, this region offers a slow-paced life and a Yunnan-influenced tea culture.
- Lampang: A hub of preserved architecture and traditional horse-drawn carriages.
- Chiang Rai & Doi Tung: Beyond the famous White Temple, these regions offer Royal Gardens and sweeping hill-country vistas.
- Trat (Koh Kood, Koh Mak, and Koh Chang): A trio of islands focused on low-impact stays and community-led tourism.
- Trang Islands: For those seeking pristine, underdeveloped beaches and turquoise waters.
- Khao Sok National Park: An ancient rainforest landscape featuring towering limestone cliffs and freshwater lakes.
- Kanchanaburi: A blend of somber history and spectacular nature, famous for its waterfalls and river-side caves.
