Thailand is looking to improve its connectivity with India by introducing direct flights between Chiang Mai and Indian cities, while also expanding maritime and road transport links. Want to know more about this? Read on!
Thailand To Introduce Direct Flights Between India & Chiang Mai
As per a report by National Thailand, the proposal was addressed during a meeting between Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and India’s Ambassador to Thailand, Puneet Agrawal. According to Thai officials, regular flights to Chiang Mai are scheduled to make travel easier for Indian tourists and encourage visitors to explore destinations beyond Bangkok. Officials are also working with airlines to add more routes between major cities in both countries.
The suggestion arises as Indian tourism to Thailand is expected to grow. Between January and May 2026, Thailand welcomed over 1.05 million Indian visitors, marking a 7.98% rise compared to the same period last year.
Phiphat stated that the Thai government is devoted to ensuring safe and seamless travel for all visitors, while Agrawal credited Thailand’s visa-exemption policy for Indian tourists as a key reason behind the steady rise in tourist arrivals. He added that discussions are ongoing with Indian airlines to keep up flight capacity and introduce new services, including routes to Chiang Mai.
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Better Road & Marine Connectivity On The Agenda
Beyond air flights, the two countries talked about boosting maritime trade through existing agreements linking Thailand’s Ranong Port with Chennai, Visakhapatnam and Kolkata ports. Authorities said the move could strengthen cargo movement and logistics between Thailand and India by utilising Thailand’s Andaman coast.
The meeting also evaluated progress on the proposed India-Myanmar-Thailand Motor Vehicle Agreement, which seeks to establish a seamless road transport corridor connecting South and Southeast Asia. The deal is expected to improve trade, reduce logistics costs and boost regional connectivity.
Both sides confirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in transport, trade, tourism and investment ahead of the 80th anniversary of India-Thailand diplomatic relations in 2027. Officials said improved connectivity across air, sea and road networks would create new opportunities for businesses, tourists and communities in both countries.
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The ambassador also conveyed hope that the two sides would meet again at a future BIMSTEC meeting in India.
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons, Pexels/Maksim Shiriagin
FAQs
Is Thailand a visa free for India?
Yes, Thailand offers visa-free entry for Indian passport holders for tourism and short-term business engagements.
Is TDAC free for Indians?
Yes, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is absolutely free for Indians.
What is Chiang Mai best known for?
Chiang Mai is best known as the cultural capital of northern Thailand.
