India’s Tourism Boom: Thailand and Malaysia Lead the Charge for Visa‑Free Getaways!

Published on February 16, 2026

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In a significant move to strengthen tourism ties between India and Southeast Asia, Thailand and Malaysia have extended visa‑free access for Indian passport holders, opening up new opportunities for leisure and business travel. With this change, Indian nationals can now visit both countries without the need for prior visas, making it easier and faster for travellers to explore these popular destinations. The announcement has sparked a surge in tourism interest, especially among those seeking seamless travel experiences in 2026. This initiative is expected to have a transformative impact on tourism flows, benefiting not just these countries but the broader regional tourism landscape.

Thailand and Malaysia Lead the Way for Indian Travellers

India has long been one of the largest sources of international travellers to Southeast Asia, and the easing of visa restrictions will undoubtedly increase the number of Indian tourists flocking to both Thailand and Malaysia. According to official government statements, Indian passport holders can now travel to Thailand for up to 60 days without needing a visa, while Malaysia offers visa‑free entry for up to 30 days. This development comes as both countries aim to tap into the rapidly growing Indian outbound market, which has seen substantial growth in recent years. The decision to remove visa barriers is part of broader strategies by both governments to foster closer economic and cultural ties with India.

The Government of Thailand has formally announced the extension of its visa exemption scheme for Indian travellers until the end of 2026. The announcement comes as Thailand seeks to capitalize on the Indian market’s increasing interest in short‑haul vacations, from bustling city tours in Bangkok to relaxing beach holidays on Phuket and Koh Samui. The ease of travel, coupled with Thailand’s affordable tourism options, makes it an attractive choice for Indian tourists. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s government has followed suit, announcing a similar extension, with Indian travellers being able to enter the country visa‑free for up to 30 days. Malaysia offers a rich cultural mix, from the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil islands of Langkawi, all easily accessible to Indian tourists without the hassle of obtaining a visa.

A Rising Trend in Search Behaviour

Recent data from travel platform Agoda reveals a surge in accommodation searches for both Thailand and Malaysia among Indian travellers. The rise in searches indicates a growing interest in these countries, particularly for the February to March 2026 travel window. In January 2026, searches for Thailand topped the list of visa‑free destinations for Indian travellers, with Malaysia following closely behind. The easing of visa requirements has clearly prompted more Indian tourists to consider these countries as ideal vacation spots, reinforcing the trend of Southeast Asia being a preferred travel region for Indian nationals.

Beyond just easing entry requirements, these visa exemptions come at a time when India is seeing a rise in disposable income and a shift in travel preferences. With more people opting for international travel, destinations like Thailand and Malaysia are stepping up to meet this demand. For many Indian families, solo travellers, and even business tourists, the removal of visa barriers will be a game changer, offering them the flexibility to travel on short notice.

Southeast Asia Set to See a Tourism Surge

The move to extend visa‑free access comes at a time when Southeast Asia is becoming one of the most sought‑after regions for Indian tourists. Beyond the immediate boost in tourism, this change is expected to benefit other sectors such as hospitality, retail, and local tourism infrastructure. Hotels, airlines, and local attractions in Thailand and Malaysia are likely to see a rise in bookings, as more Indian tourists plan their holidays without the bureaucratic hurdles that often accompany visa applications.

Industry analysts suggest that Indian travellers’ growing appetite for easy travel will lead to a shift in regional tourism dynamics. The simplicity of visa‑free access means more people can plan spontaneous trips, helping to increase the number of repeat visitors and encouraging them to spend more on local experiences. For instance, the extended visa exemptions allow Indian tourists to explore more regions within Thailand, from Chiang Mai’s cultural richness to the untouched beauty of Krabi.

A Bright Future for Indian Tourism to Southeast Asia

The policy change represents a win for the tourism industries in both Thailand and Malaysia, as well as for the wider Southeast Asian region. By offering Indian nationals easier access, both countries are laying the groundwork for sustained growth in their tourism sectors. The new visa‑free regulations not only simplify travel logistics but also signal both nations’ intent to deepen their relationship with one of Asia’s largest and fastest‑growing travel markets. As the global tourism sector rebounds in 2026, Thailand and Malaysia will continue to benefit from this expansion of tourism flows, attracting millions of Indian travellers eager to experience everything these countries have to offer.

The move to grant visa‑free access to Indian travellers marks a pivotal moment for Southeast Asia’s tourism industry. Thailand and Malaysia are positioning themselves as key players in the Indian outbound market, offering easy entry and unforgettable travel experiences. As more Indian tourists venture to these destinations in 2026, both countries are set to see not only an increase in visitor numbers but also a significant boost to their economies, marking a bright future for tourism in the region. The removal of visa barriers is just the beginning of an exciting era of growth and collaboration between India and Southeast Asia.