Thailand Expands India Market Focus at SATTE 2026 in New Delhi
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) strengthened its engagement with the Indian market during the 2026 South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE), held from February 25 to 27 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi. Now in its 33rd edition, SATTE attracted over 35,000 participants and featured 1,400 exhibitors.
TAT participated for the 17th time, facilitating business discussions between Thai tourism operators and Indian buyers at a 312-square-meter Thailand Pavilion.
The pavilion’s design embodies the theme “Palette of Wellness, Your Ultimate Healuxe,” in line with TAT’s global campaign, “Healing is the New Luxury,” which emphasizes wellness-focused, value-driven travel experiences.
It was officially opened on February 25 by H.E. Ms. Chavanart Thangsumphant, Thailand’s Ambassador to India, alongside Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and South Pacific; Mr. Chuwit Sirivajjakul, TAT Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning; and senior executives of TAT.
Fifty Thai tourism operators are showcased at the pavilion, including hotels, resorts, tour companies, and attractions. Over 5,000 pre-arranged business meetings are anticipated during the three-day event. Participants include Thai AirAsia, Thai Vietjet Air, Thai Lion Air, the Phuket Tourist Association, the Samui Tourism Promotion Association, and the Association of Thai Travel Agents.
On 25 February, Ms. Pattaraanong also conducted a media briefing to present Thailand’s India market strategy under the “New Thailand” vision. The strategy highlights balanced tourism growth, emphasizing value creation in wellness, culture, and sustainability.
“India remains a strategic market for Thailand,” Ms. Pattaraanong said.
“Through SATTE and our ongoing partnerships, we aim to strengthen long-term collaboration and promote travel experiences that deliver meaningful value for visitors and local communities.”
Under its “Amazing 5-Economy” framework, TAT aligned tourism development with trends in wellness, culture, shopping, and digital travel services.
India continues to be one of Thailand’s key source markets. In 2025, Thailand welcomed 2,487,319 Indian travellers, representing a 16.82 per cent increase over the previous year and generating 93.86 billion Baht in revenue. From 1 January to 23 February 2026, Thailand recorded 382,768 arrivals from India, making it the fourth-largest inbound market after China, Malaysia and Russia.
For 2026, TAT has set a target of over 2.55 million Indian visitors and 97.86 billion Baht in revenue.
Air connectivity between the two countries has also expanded. In 2025, 10 airlines operated direct services between India and Thailand, offering 19,132 flights and more than 3.8 million seats. Direct routes connect major Indian cities with Bangkok, Phuket and Krabi. Visa-exemption measures allow Indian passport holders to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days.
TAT’s offices in New Delhi and Mumbai continue to implement joint campaigns with travel partners, corporate and wedding segment promotions, trade engagement initiatives and media familiarisation trips to support steady growth from the Indian market.
TAT also confirmed that the recent Nipah virus cases reported in West Bengal are under control, with no new cases. Travel and tourism operations across India continue without disruption.
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