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

Tianjin, Sep 1 (KNN) On the side lines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Leaders’ Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with President Xi Jinping in Tianjin, China on Sunday.

Concerning economic and trade relations, the two leaders recognized the role of their economies in stabilizing world trade. They underlined the need to proceed from a political and strategic perspective to expand bilateral trade and investment ties and reduce the trade deficit. 

They acknowledged the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties through direct flights and visa facilitation, building on the resumption of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and tourist visa. 

Prime Minister noted that India and China both pursue strategic autonomy, and their relations should not be seen through a a third country lens. 

Both leaders deemed it necessary to expand common ground on bilateral, regional, and global issues and challenges in multilateral platforms. They welcomed the positive momentum and steady progress in bilateral relations since their last meeting in Kazan in October 2024. 

They reaffirmed that the two countries were development partners and not rivals, and that their differences should not turn into disputes. A stable relationship and cooperation between India and China and their 2.8 billion people on the basis of mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity are necessary for the growth and development of the two countries, as well as for a multipolar world and a multi-polar Asia befitting the trends of the 21st century.

Prime Minister underlined the importance of peace and tranquility in the border areas for continued development of bilateral relations. 

The two leaders noted with satisfaction the successful disengagement last year and the maintenance of peace and tranquility along the border areas since then. They expressed commitment to a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question proceeding from the political perspective of their overall bilateral relations and the long-term interests of the two peoples. They recognized the important decisions taken by the two Special Representatives in their Talks earlier this month, and agreed to further support their efforts.

Prime Minister expressed support for China’s Presidency of the SCO and the Summit in Tianjin. He also invited President Xi to the BRICS Summit that India will be hosting in 2026. 

President Xi thanked Prime Minister for the invitation and offered China’s support for India’s BRICS Presidency.

(KNN Bureau)