Imagine getting free domestic tickets to fly across an international destination! An offer any traveller simply can’t refuse! A Southeast Asian nation has announced a new tourism scheme that will let Indians and tourists from select countries explore domestic destinations with free tickets. Curious to know more about this offer? Read on to find out which country is making this possible.

Southeast Asian Country Offers Free Domestic Flight Tickets To Indians

When we think of travel, the flight ticket cost often limits the number of domestic destinations we can explore within a country. But what if you could fly for free? Sounds like a dream, right? Thailand has now announced a new tourism scheme which, if approved, will let visitors from specific countries explore its domestic destinations at no extra cost.

As per a report by The Indian Express, Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has proposed a new campaign called “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights.” Under this campaign, international tourists from select countries will get a minimum of two free domestic flight tickets (one for departure and one for return), along with 20kg baggage allowance. Reportedly, the scheme aims to attract at least 200,000 international tourists to explore lesser-known destinations in Thailand, beyond the famous ones. 

Also Read: Good News! Air India Is The First Indian Airline To Offer FREE In-Flight Wi-Fi Internet On Domestic Flights

Why Is Thailand Taking This Step?

According to a report by The Economic Times, the initiative will be carried out in partnership with six airlines: Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet. The Thai government will subsidise the cost of domestic tickets at 1,750 baht (₹4,785) for one-way and 3,500 baht (₹9,567) for round-trip tickets.

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has stated that they plan to submit the proposal to the cabinet next week. If approved, the policy will run from August to December 2025, with travel set between September and November.

But why would Thailand, which already sees a huge number of tourists, especially from India, introduce such a scheme? Apparently, a major chunk of travellers usually stick to destinations like Krabi and Phuket. The ministry has proposed this plan to encourage visitors to explore less popular places, ensuring a more even distribution of tourism revenue. The scheme will cover UNESCO-designated cities and other key destinations across the country.

The decision to choose September, October and November is also strategic. Since popular places like Bangkok and Krabi face heavy rainfall during these months, tourists are more likely to opt for other destinations.

Also Read: Thailand Moves Toward Eco-Friendly Tourism As First Climate Change Act Nears Final Approval

What do you think of this campaign by Thailand? Would you take the opportunity to explore lesser-known destinations at no extra cost? We think we would because there is no greater joy than discovering hidden gems instead of opting for popular spots! 

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ BiG-FOTOSKIT

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First Published: September 01, 2025 2:18 PM

September is a month filled with festivals and changing weather in India. It is also one of the best months for short trips, family gatherings, or self-care breaks. The good news is that September 2025 has multiple long weekends. This means that if you plan your leaves wisely, you can make the most of these holidays. Whether you love travelling, celebrating festivals, or spending time at home, these long weekends give everyone a chance to recharge.

1. SEPTEMBER 5–7: TEACHERS’ DAY WEEKEND

Teachers’ Day on September 5 (Friday) is the first long weekend of the month. With Saturday and Sunday following, it’s a great chance to celebrate with family or plan a short two-day trip nearby.

2. SEPTEMBER 13–15: ONAM AND GANESH VISARJAN WEEKEND

Onam falls on September 13 (Saturday), followed by Sunday, and Ganesh Visarjan on September 15 (Monday). Many states will have holidays, making it a perfect three-day break for festive celebrations.

3. SEPTEMBER 20–22: MUHARRAM LONG WEEKEND

Muharram will be observed on September 22 (Monday). On the weekend before, people will get three consecutive days off. This is an ideal time for travel or family gatherings.

4. SEPTEMBER 27–29: DUSSEHRA LONG WEEKEND

Dussehra falls on September 29 (Monday). Adding Saturday and Sunday gives another long weekend. This festive holiday is one of the biggest celebrations in India, and many families plan trips or attend cultural events.

From religious festivals to short getaways, September offers plenty of opportunities. You can plan a road trip to nearby hill stations, attend local festive events, or simply enjoy quality time with your loved ones at home.

With four long weekends in September 2025, the month is perfect for balancing work, festivals, and relaxation. Planning early will help you avoid a last-minute rush and enjoy every moment.

– Ends

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was offered a lift by Russian President Vladimir Putin in his AURUS limousine to reach the venue of their bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit here on Monday.

“The two leaders continued their one-to-one dialogue on the way to the hotel where they were to be joined by members of their teams. However, on reaching the hotel they did not deboard the Russian president’s limousine and continued their conversation for 50 minutes,” Russian national radio station VestiFM reported.

Later, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the two leaders had tet-a-tet in the car for about an hour.

Modi also took to social media to share a photo of himself and the Russian president inside the limousine.

“After the proceedings at the SCO Summit venue, President Putin and I travelled together to the venue of our bilateral meeting. Conversations with him are always insightful,” Modi said.

Commentators in Moscow say perhaps this was the most important confidential conversation between Modi and Putin during which they probably discussed issues “not for the ears of others”.

During their bilateral talks, Modi conveyed to Putin that it is humanity’s call to end the Ukraine conflict as soon as possible.

The call of humanity is to end the conflict as soon as possible and find ways to bring permanent peace to the region, he said.

Modi also said that India is waiting to receive the Russian leader.

Putin is set to travel to India in December for summit talks with Modi.