Thailand sees rising Indian tourist arrivals despite Nipah virus concerns

Indian tourist arrivals in Thailand are on the rise despite the Nipah virus outbreak in India. Thailand's Tourism Authority reports a significant increase in visitors from India. Enhanced health screenings are in place at airports to ensure travel...

Agencies
Nipah virus outbreak in India has not significantly affected the Thailand’s overall tourism, according to Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT), as reported by Nation Thailand. Between January 1–25, 2026, tourist arrivals from India rose by 20% compared with the same period last year, according to TAT data. The agency also noted that enhanced health screening measures have been implemented at key international airports to reassure travellers.

Indian tourism remains strong
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool told Nation Thailand that the agency is closely monitoring Nipah virus reports in West Bengal, India, and the containment measures being implemented. “Thailand has not detected any infections to date, but the situation could have a psychological impact on travelers who feel anxious after widespread reporting and social-media discussion,” she said. Key airports including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket have increased health screening for travelers from affected areas.


During the week of January 20–26, when the outbreak received heavy media attention, Indian arrivals still increased by around 35% year-on-year. For the entire month of January, TAT projected arrivals from India to reach approximately 200,000, up about 8% from last year. Phuket International Airport recorded a 51% increase in Indian arrivals, Suvarnabhumi saw a 33% rise, and Don Mueang 15%.

While no material impact has been seen overall, TAT warned that markets sensitive to health concerns, such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan, may delay travel decisions over the next one to two weeks. The authority said swift containment measures in India and airport screening in Thailand should help limit potential disruptions and maintain traveller confidence.

9 best things to do in Thailand with family
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Thailand is one of Asia’s most family-friendly travel destinations, offering beaches, wildlife, culture, food and easy transport. The country has activities suitable for all age groups, from young children to seniors. Short travel distances, affordable experiences and well-developed tourist facilities make Thailand a practical option for family holidays.

Thailand is one of Asia’s most family-friendly travel destinations, offering beaches, wildlife, culture, food and easy transport. The country has activities suitable for all age groups, from young ch..
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Island tours are among the most popular family activities in Thailand. In places like Krabi and Phuket, families can visit multiple islands by longtail boat or speedboat in a single day. These tours usually include calm beaches, shallow swimming areas and lunch. Children can enjoy boat rides and beach play, while adults relax or swim.

Island tours are among the most popular family activities in Thailand. In places like Krabi and Phuket, families can visit multiple islands by longtail boat or speedboat in a single day. These tours ..
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For families with teenagers, Thailand offers ziplining, snorkeling and light safari experiences. Locations like Koh Tao and Koh Samui provide supervised adventure activities with safety equipment. These experiences add excitement while remaining suitable for family travel.

For families with teenagers, Thailand offers ziplining, snorkeling and light safari experiences. Locations like Koh Tao and Koh Samui provide supervised adventure activities with safety equipment. Th..
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Elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai focus on animal care rather than performances. Families can feed elephants, walk alongside them and learn about conservation. Many sanctuaries offer half-day or full-day programmes, making them suitable for children. Guides explain elephant behaviour in simple terms, adding an educational element.

Elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai focus on animal care rather than performances. Families can feed elephants, walk alongside them and learn about conservation. Many sanctuaries offer half-day or ful..
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Muay Thai is Thailand’s national sport and is presented in stadiums with organised seating and safety arrangements. Families can watch short bouts that showcase technique and tradition. The experience helps children understand Thai culture while enjoying a live sporting event in a controlled setting.

Muay Thai is Thailand’s national sport and is presented in stadiums with organised seating and safety arrangements. Families can watch short bouts that showcase technique and tradition. The experienc..
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Beaches like Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay are known for clear water and soft sand. Family tours often schedule stops during calmer hours and include safety briefings. Shallow waters allow children to swim under supervision, while adults can relax or take photos of limestone cliffs.

Beaches like Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay are known for clear water and soft sand. Family tours often schedule stops during calmer hours and include safety briefings. Shallow waters allow children to..
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Floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak give families a glimpse of traditional Thai trade. Vendors sell fruits, snacks and souvenirs from boats. Children enjoy the colours and movement, while parents experience local food culture. These markets are usually combined with short day trips from Bangkok.

Floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak give families a glimpse of traditional Thai trade. Vendors sell fruits, snacks and souvenirs from boats. Children enjoy the colours and movement, while parents..
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National parks such as Doi Inthanon and wildlife tours around Chiang Mai offer nature trails, waterfalls and birdwatching. These trips are paced for families and include rest stops. Children learn about forests and animals, while adults enjoy cooler climates and scenic views.

National parks such as Doi Inthanon and wildlife tours around Chiang Mai offer nature trails, waterfalls and birdwatching. These trips are paced for families and include rest stops. Children learn ab..
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Thai cooking classes are available in cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok and often include market visits. Family-friendly classes allow children to help with simple tasks like mixing or decorating dishes. This activity introduces Thai ingredients and food habits in an interactive way.

Thai cooking classes are available in cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok and often include market visits. Family-friendly classes allow children to help with simple tasks like mixing or decorating di..
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Cruises on the Chao Phraya River combine sightseeing with food. Families can see landmarks like temples and bridges while dining. The slow pace suits children and older travellers, making it a relaxing evening activity after a day of sightseeing.

Cruises on the Chao Phraya River combine sightseeing with food. Families can see landmarks like temples and bridges while dining. The slow pace suits children and older travellers, making it a relaxi..
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TAT also clarified that there have been no travel bans, flight cancellations, or reductions linked to the outbreak, and most reporting has focused on facts rather than creating fear among prospective visitors.
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