Indians have rediscovered Thailand as one of the hot spots of global tourism with more people visiting the Southeast Asian nation which is known for scenic beaches and heritage sites.

With the objective to cash in on renewed interest among Indians, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has organised a roadshow in Chennai on Tuesday with nearly 25 exhibitors consisting of travel agents, resorts, theme parks, hotels, resorts and tour operators putting up stalls to woo people to visit Thailand.

Speaking to media persons, TAT deputy governor Santichai Euachongprasit said the Visa fees for Indian tourists have been waived till March 2010 in order to encourage them to visit his country as a holiday destination.

‘There is a positive growth in the arrival of Indian tourists this year despite recession. Compared to 5.40 lakh Indians who had visited Thailand in 2008, we have seen a 5 per cent growth in the number so far this year,’ he said. While the flow of global tourists in 2008 reached 14.5 million, TAT official said he was hoping this year, the number would touch at least 13 million.

Further, Euachongprasit pointed out exotic locations have been developed to host wedding ceremonies in a typical Indian tradition for lover couples and their families who could feel the ambience of their own country in Thailand. ‘Thai hotels cost much less than those in Malaysia and Singapore. Besides, we offer attractive tour packages offering a range of products and services for Indian tourists,’ he said.

Newly created beaches in Pukhet and Krabi in southern Thailand along with a number of cultural events being hosted in northern Thailand would offer a visual treat for Indians, he said. It may be noted the Tourism Authority of Thailand used to stage at least 80 roadshows across the world in a year.

Royal Thai Consulate General Suphot Yanthukij informed on a day the Chennai office issued Visas to nearly 300 persons, while Delhi ranked top by processing 600 Visas per day. ‘Nearly 20 per cent of Indian tourists are made up of business class and South India contributed nearly 20 per cent of the annual flow to Thailand,’ he said.

Further, the period from February to May was the peak season which attracted a spurt in tourist arrivals. With Thai Airways, Air India, Jet Air and Cathay Pacific operating direct flights from Indian metros to Bangkok travelling to this scenic country is made easier now than before.