New Delhi: As international travel sees a resurgence in 2026, many indian tourists are increasingly choosing Thailand and Malaysia as their top destinations for holidays and business trips. Both countries offer visa-free entry or e-visa facilities, making them highly attractive to travelers looking for convenience, affordability, and a rich cultural experience.

Let’s explore why these destinations are gaining popularity among indian tourists.

1. Visa-Free or E-Visa Ease: A Major Factor

One of the biggest draws for indian tourists is the visa-free access or easy visa processes offered by both countries.

· Thailand: indian nationals can travel to thailand for up to 30 days without a visa for tourism purposes. This makes it a perfect getaway for those looking for a quick escape. thailand also offers easy e-visas for longer stays and business purposes.

· Malaysia: malaysia offers a visa-free entry for indian passport holders for up to 30 days for tourism, which is perfect for short trips. The e-visa facility for tourists is another reason why malaysia is a favorite, allowing a hassle-free entry process for business and leisure travelers.

Both countries have made travel easier for indians, allowing them to plan spontaneous holidays without the long wait for visa processing.

2. Affordable Travel Options

Both Thailand and Malaysia offer affordable travel options, especially compared to many other international destinations. The cost of living in these countries is lower, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

· Thailand offers a variety of options for every type of traveler, from budget-friendly street food and accommodation to luxurious resorts. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday in Phuket, exploring cultural attractions in Bangkok, or diving into adventure activities in Chiang Mai, thailand caters to a wide range of budgets.

· Malaysia is similarly affordable, especially for tourists coming from India. The public transport system is affordable, and shopping is cheaper compared to many Western nations. Kuala Lumpur and Penang offer a mix of modern amenities, local culture, and history — all at pocket-friendly prices.

Both countries offer a great value proposition for travelers seeking a balance between affordability and quality experiences.

3. Proximity to India

Both Thailand and Malaysia are geographically close to India, with relatively short flight times. This proximity makes these countries ideal for both short and long-term trips. The flight duration to thailand is approximately 4 to 6 hours, while flights to malaysia generally take about 5 to 7 hours, making them ideal for quick weekend getaways.

Their strategic locations in Southeast Asia also make these countries perfect gateways for travelers planning to explore the broader region. Many indian travelers often opt for these destinations as starting points for backpacking trips across Southeast Asia.

4. Rich Cultural and Natural Diversity

Both thailand and malaysia offer a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique travel experiences.

· Thailand is renowned for its beautiful beaches like those in Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui. It also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with ancient temples such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, as well as its well-known festivals like Songkran (the Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong.

· Malaysia offers a more diverse mix of culture and nature, from the modern skyline of Kuala Lumpur to the serene rainforests of Borneo. malaysia is famous for Petronas Towers, its Malay, Chinese, and indian cultural fusion, and natural attractions like Langkawi and Cameron Highlands.

For many indian travelers, the blend of nature and culture in these destinations provides a well-rounded vacation experience.

5. Food and Culinary Delights

Food is an essential aspect of both countries' appeal, especially for indian tourists who appreciate spicy, flavorful meals.

· Thailand offers a wide variety of street food and regional dishes, with favorites like Pad Thai, Som Tam (green papaya salad), and Tom Yum soup. thailand is also famous for its fresh seafood.

· Malaysia has an equally diverse culinary scene, drawing influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. Nasi lemak, char kway teow, and roti canai are just a few examples of the popular food items that travelers flock to enjoy.

Both countries’ cuisines are easily accessible and offer delicious, affordable meals for all budgets.

6. Entertainment and Shopping

Both countries are popular for shopping, nightlife, and entertainment.

· Thailand offers everything from luxury malls in bangkok to street markets in Chiang Mai. Nightlife in thailand, especially in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya, is famous for its vibrant clubs and bars.

· Malaysia is home to luxury shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur and night markets offering everything from traditional handicrafts to modern fashion. The Batu Caves and the Petronas Towers also serve as major tourist draws.

Both countries provide tourists with multidata-faceted entertainment, from shopping and night markets to adventure sports and cultural shows.

7. Safety and Hospitality

Both thailand and malaysia are generally considered safe for indian tourists. With hospitable locals and a significant presence of indian expatriates, indians feel comfortable and welcome.

· Thailand is considered very tourist-friendly, with well-developed infrastructure for travelers.

· Malaysia has also built a reputation for great hospitality and safe travel experiences, with many establishments offering services in multiple languages, including Hindi and English.

Conclusion: Why Choose thailand and malaysia in 2026?

As visa-free destinations, both Thailand and Malaysia offer affordable, culturally rich experiences that attract indian tourists. Whether you are looking for beach holidays, adventure, shopping, or simply a quick getaway, these countries have something to offer every traveler.

With easy visa processes, budget-friendly travel options, rich cultural diversity, and unique landscapes, thailand and malaysia are set to remain at the top of indian travelers' destination lists in 2026.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.