Thailand’s tourism sector continues its strong post-pandemic rebound, as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced that over one million Indian tourists have already visited the country before the halfway mark of 2025.

This early milestone underscores Thailand’s enduring appeal for Indian travellers across leisure, luxury, wellness, and spiritual tourism segments. It also builds on the record-breaking momentum of 2024, when Thailand welcomed more than 2.1 million Indian visitors out of a total 35 million international tourists.

Several factors are fuelling this continued growth:

• A visa exemption programme allowing up to 60-day stays

• Strong air connectivity with multiple direct flights from cities across India

• The newly launched Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for smoother entry

• A broad and diverse set of tourism experiences—from beach escapes and spa retreats to food trails and festivals

What’s especially noteworthy is the surge in travellers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 Indian cities such as Surat, Rajkot, Nagpur, and Nashik, reflecting a broader shift toward high-spend, experience-led travel from emerging markets.

In response to this growing demand, TAT is ramping up its engagement efforts with India through joint promotions, customised marketing campaigns, and trade events designed to promote longer stays and higher-value travel.

These initiatives are closely aligned with Thailand’s long-term strategy of encouraging sustainable and inclusive tourism, ensuring the country remains a top choice for Indian travellers not just now—but well into the future.

After a five-year pause, the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Sikkim’s Nathula Pass has resumed, marking a moment of cultural revival and international cooperation. The first batch of 33 Indian pilgrims was officially flagged off by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, along with two nodal officers and one doctor from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).

At the flagging-off ceremony, Governor Mathur shared his pride in seeing this revered journey once again take the route through Sikkim. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reviving the pilgrimage and praised the Sikkim Government, ITBP, and Indian Army for their coordination in making it happen.

“It is a moment of immense pride for the state of Sikkim that this historic and spiritual journey is progressing through the sacred land of the state,” said the Governor, who also interacted with the pilgrims and wished them well.

The yatra, which was on hold due to the pandemic, is being seen not just as a spiritual revival, but also as a symbol of India-China goodwill. Pilgrims underwent strict medical screenings and a two-stage high-altitude acclimatisation process at the 18th Mile and Sherathang to prepare for the harsh conditions of the Himalayan region, where elevations cross 14,000 feet. An Indian Army official confirmed that all pilgrims had been medically cleared for the journey.

Sikkim’s Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia noted that this moment was historic and beneficial for regional tourism.

“After 5 years, history is being created that devotees from all over India are coming here and getting ready to start the Mansarovar yatra. It gives publicity to Nathu La and adds value to Sikkim tourism,” he said.

Pilgrims expressed deep gratitude for the arrangements. Shalanda Sharma, one of the participants, shared,

“This yatra is starting again after five years through mutual agreement between the Government of India and the Government of China. The arrangements, the hospitality, and the medical attention, we’re truly grateful.”

Another pilgrim, Indar Sharma, appreciated the efficiency of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) and supporting authorities:

“We are carrying blessings and hope this yatra strengthens India-China ties and allows more pilgrims in the future.”

As per plan, the group was expected to cross over into the Chinese side through Nathula by 9:15 AM, where immigration processes would be completed before heading toward the sacred sites of Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake.

The yatra is being jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police, ensuring a secure and smooth journey for all pilgrims.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Sotheby’s have joined forces to unveil a truly unique travel and culture experience: Masterpieces & The Mediterranean, an exclusive seven-night voyage aboard Luminara, the newest superyacht in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. This luxury experience will be auctioned during Sotheby’s Summer Marquee Sale in London, with bidding open from June 20–30, 2025.

Departing October 17, 2025, from Rome and concluding in Barcelona, the itinerary covers glamorous Mediterranean ports including Livorno, Portofino, Saint-Tropez, and Mallorca. The winning bidder and a guest will stay in the prestigious Owner’s Suite aboard Luminara, enjoying panoramic sea views, personalised service, and curated fine dining — including a modern Italian tasting menu at Seta su Luminara, helmed by award-winning Chef Fabio Trabocchi.

Elevating this voyage further is a bespoke cultural itinerary curated in collaboration with Sotheby’s specialists. Guests will gain behind-the-scenes access to private art collections and institutions, such as:

• A private tour of the founder’s residence at FAMM (Femmes Artistes du Musée de Mougins) in Florence.

• A curator-led exploration of the FAMM museum in Saint-Tropez, home to the Levett Collection.

• An exclusive visit to Fondation Maeght to view Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life.

• A Provençal lunch at the iconic La Colombe d'Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, surrounded by original works of Picasso, Matisse, and Calder.

"The Mediterranean has always been a vibrant crossroads of artistic exchange," shared Ottilie Windsor, Co-Head of Contemporary Art, London. "This initiative invites guests to experience art as a living continuum, shaped by place, memory, and dialogue."

"This extraordinary voyage reflects our passion for creating journeys that connect, inspire, and leave a lasting impression," said Gaby Aiguesvives, CMO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

George Hammer, Global Head of Luxury Marketing at Marriott International, added, “At the Luxury Group, we believe in offering guests rare access, meaningful connection, and storytelling that stays with them long after their journey ends.”

As part of the partnership, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will be the Presenting Partner of Sotheby’s Fine Art Marquee Auction and co-host a private brunch in London on June 22, 2025.

Following four previous successful auctions of bespoke travel experiences, Masterpieces & The Mediterranean affirms the shared vision of The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s: to craft luxury journeys that rival the emotional impact of great works of art.

For details or to view the listing, visit sothebys.com/MediterraneanYachtVoyage.