Ultimate Pattaya New Year 2026 Guide: Free Fireworks, Cheap Food & Budget Tips

Planning a Pattaya trip for New Year’s Eve 2026? If so, remember this: fireworks viewing is totally free, hotel prices triple, and one wrong move on transport can ruin your night. In this guide, we’ll show you where to watch the show, where to stay affordably, what to eat, how to get around, and the best exit strategy most visitors overlook.

What Is Pattaya Countdown 2026?

Pattaya Countdown 2026 – Monomax is a large, multi-day New Year festival running December 29–31, 2025. The party stretches along Pattaya Beach Road and Bali Hai Pier, featuring massive stages, international DJs, live performances, and fireworks along the entire bay — completely free for all.

Free Shuttle Buses

To help with congestion, Pattaya City offers free shuttle buses from Lotus’s South Pattaya to the event zone from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM. If you’re staying in Jomtien, take a Baht bus to South Pattaya and then catch the free shuttle from Lotus’s car park.

Koh Larn Countdown

A parallel celebration, Koh Lan Pattaya Countdown 2026 Monomax, will take place at Na Baan Pier on December 31 — a great alternative if you’re staying on Koh Larn Island.

Other Nearby Events

• Central Pattaya x MY Always Connected Countdown 2026
  Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026
  Beachfront Zone, Central Pattaya

• Sriracha Bay Countdown Fireworks 2026
  Dec 31, 2025
  Sriracha Bay, Pattaya

Best Spots to Watch Fireworks

Pratumnak Hill – Panoramic Viewpoint

Free entry and open all day. Get here before sunset, as it fills up fast. This spot offers sweeping views of the entire Pattaya Bay. ⚠️ No shops or toilets — bring water and snacks.

Jomtien Beach – Budget Favorite

This quieter beach spot sees fewer crowds but still delivers excellent baywide fireworks views. Perfect if you want space, peace, and zero entry cost.

Where to Stay Without Breaking the Bank

Hotels near Beach Road often surge in price during New Year — rates that normally might be THB 2,600 can jump to over THB 10,000 between Dec 29–Jan 1.

Budget Tip: Stay in Jomtien

Rooms in Jomtien remain much more affordable through the New Year period, and you’re still just a short trip away from the celebration. This area strikes the best balance between cost and convenience.

Daytime Plans & Cheap Eat

Free or Low-Cost Attractions

• Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) – Free entry with fantastic views near Pratumnak Hill.

• Sanctuary of Truth – While tickets are pricey, you can watch and photograph the wooden temple from the beach for free.

Budget Food

Expect great local meals for roughly:

• Thai dishes: THB 60–150

• Indian snacks: THB 60–150

• Budget Indian thali: THB 150

Top affordable food spots include Bua Khao Night Market and street stalls around Soi Buakhao & Walking Street.

Transport, Road Closures & Safety

Beach Road will close from 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM on December 31, so plan accordingly.

Getting to Pattaya from Bangkok

Option A: Budget Bus (Our Pick!)

• Cost: THB 140–200 per person

• From Suvarnabhumi (BKK): ~THB 168–200

• Tickets sold at Level 1, Gate 8

• From Don Mueang (DMK): ~THB 155 (may require a quick transfer to Suvarnabhumi)

Option B: Private Taxi (Fastest, More Expensive)

• From BKK: ~THB 1,200–1,400 for a sedan (up to 3 passengers)

• From DMK: ~THB 1,500–1,800
  Tip: Book in advance to avoid higher rates at the airport.

Local Travel: Baht Buses (Songthaews)

• Jomtien to Central Pattaya or Naklua: ~THB 20

• Within Pattaya: ~THB 10
  Don’t ask the driver for prices upfront — it could turn into a private hire with fees of THB 100–300 or more.

Baht Bus Route:
Jomtien Beach Road → Thappraya Road → under Third Road → Pratumnak Road → South Pattaya Road/Second Road (get off near the event area, then walk ~1 km due to closures).

Pattaya Free Shuttle

From Lotus’s South Pattaya to the countdown zone (4:00 PM – 1:00 AM). From Jomtien, take a Baht bus to South Pattaya and then the shuttle.

⚠️ Motorbike taxis surge heavily on NYE — always negotiate before riding.

Exit Strategy (5:40–6:00

Don’t rush out right at midnight — transport queues can last hours. Instead, celebrate a bit longer and leave once the crowds thin after midnight or early morning. That decision alone saves you time, money, and stress.

Recent News from Travel Man Today: Bangkok Tightens Fireworks Rules for New Year 2026 Celebrations  

Bangkok New Year 2026 on a Budget: Free Fireworks & Smart Itinerary

 Bangkok New Year 2026: Smart Planning Beats Expensive Parties

Bangkok New Year 2026 looks expensive at first glance. Luxury cruises, rooftop parties, and hotel packages can easily burn a hole in your pocket. But here’s the truth most tourists don’t realize.

Some of the best fireworks, biggest street parties, and most electric New Year vibes in Bangkok are absolutely free.

This guide explains exactly how Indian travelers can celebrate New Year 2026 in Bangkok on a budget, avoid tourist traps, and still experience the city at its festive best.

Top Free New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Street Parties in Bangkok

CentralWorld Countdown – Asia’s Times Square

CentralWorld hosts Thailand’s largest free New Year countdown, featuring live concerts, celebrity performances, and a massive midnight fireworks display.

It does get extremely crowded, but there’s a smart workaround.

Budget tip:
Stand on the Ratchaprasong Skywalk or the footbridge near Gaysorn Village. You’ll get the same fireworks view and atmosphere without being stuck in packed crowds—and it costs nothing.

ICONSIAM Fireworks – Best Riverside View for Free

ICONSIAM is famous for hosting Thailand’s most expensive and eco-friendly fireworks show. Many visitors assume paid river cruises or mall seating are necessary, but that’s not true.

Budget hack:
Watch the fireworks from Public Pier 4, the Khlong San side, or nearby riverbanks. You’ll see the exact same show for zero Baht.

One Bangkok Countdown 2026 – New & Trending

One of the newest New Year hotspots is the One Bangkok Countdown, located near MRT Lumpini.

Outside viewing areas are completely free and offer a 360-degree fireworks experience, along with live performances by international artists and K-pop stars.

Important warning:
Front-stage zones require spending up to 50,000 THB. Stick to the public areas for the same vibe without the massive cost.

Khao San Road – Budget Party Chaos

If you want neon lights, loud music, street dancing, and a no-rules party atmosphere, Khao San Road delivers every time.

It’s ideal for solo travelers and friend groups who don’t want to pay club entry fees. Just keep your phone in a zipped front pocket due to crowds.

Optional Paid Event: NEON Countdown Music Festival

For travelers who want a large-scale music festival experience, the NEON Countdown at Rajamangala Stadium offers a world-class lineup.

A one-day pass costs around 4,500 THB, making it a splurge—but worth it for music lovers.

Bangkok Budget Guide: Food, Transport & Accommodation

Street Food Costs During New Year

Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world for eating well on a budget.

Average meal cost: ₹150–₹300

During New Year’s Eve, many sit-down restaurants add a 10% service charge and 7% VAT. Always check menus for “++”, which means extra charges.

New Year tip:
Visit Jodd Fairs, Siam Square, and nearby night markets for festive snacks and better prices.

Accommodation Reality Check for Dec 31

New Year’s Eve is peak season in Bangkok, and prices jump sharply.

On December 31:
• Budget 3-star hotels often rise to ₹4,500–₹6,000 per night
• Rooms below ₹4,000 are rare in central areas
• Expect ₹9,000–₹12,000 for a decent 2-night stay

Recommended budget-friendly areas with good MRT/BTS access include Onnut, Ari, and Phra Rama 9. These are slightly outside Sukhumvit but well connected.

BTS & MRT: Your New Year Lifeline

Public transport is the smartest way to move around Bangkok during New Year.

Typical fare: ₹40–₹140 per ride

Money-saving tip:
Buy a Rabbit Card or a One-Day Pass for ₹350–₹400.

On December 31, BTS and MRT usually operate until around 2 AM. Traffic near CentralWorld and the river becomes gridlocked, so avoid taxis and tuk-tuks after 10 PM.

Cheap “High-Life” Views Without Luxury Prices

You don’t need ₹20,000 to enjoy a rooftop view, but expectations must be realistic.

Popular options include:
• Red Square Rooftop: ~5,500 THB with drinks
• 4Monkeys Rooftop: ~2,300 THB with buffet and drinks
• Mid-range rooftops: ₹5,000–₹10,000

Budget hack:
Visit high-rise hotel bars that are not hosting ticketed events before 8 PM. Have one drink, then head to free countdown zones.

If you’re happy with Khao San Road or CentralWorld, ₹5,000 total for drinks and food is more than enough.

Budget Boat Party Option

For river views without cruise prices, docked boat parties near Chong Nonsi offer a fun alternative.

Cost range: ₹1,600–₹3,500

You still get fireworks views without paying luxury cruise rates.

What to Skip If You’re on a Budget

Luxury river cruises cost ₹11,000–₹25,000 per person and often feel overcrowded at lower prices.

Five-star rooftops like Lebua or Banyan Tree can cost ₹18,000–₹30,000 per person. These are worth mentioning mainly so budget travelers know what to avoid. 

Final Tips for Indian Travelers

• Always double-check Thailand visa-free entry rules for 2025–26 before flying.
• Carry a forex card along with at least 5,000 THB in cash.
• Bangkok is generally safe, but New Year crowds mean staying alert for pickpockets. Also Read:  Thailand Events Calendar for New Year 2026  

Big Update: New China Visa Process for Indians in 2026 Explained

 

Big Breaking News for Indian Travelers 

Indian nationals can now start their China visa application online, as Beijing and New Delhi continue efforts to normalize economic and travel ties. However, there is one important detail many applicants are misunderstanding.

Online approval does NOT mean your China visa is approved.

This updated announcement, dated December 21, 2025, has created confusion among Indian travelers, students, and business visitors. In this article, we break down the new China visa process for Indians in 2026, explain how the online system works, and clarify what happens after submission at the visa center.

 China Introduces a New Online Visa System for Indians

China has officially rolled out a new Online Visa Application System for Indian passport holders. This marks a significant shift from the earlier fully offline process, but it is not a full e-visa system.

Important clarification:
China has NOT launched an e-visa for Indians.

Instead, the country has introduced a hybrid visa application model.

Under this system, applicants must first complete the visa application online and then submit their passport physically at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC).

No passport submission means no visa processing.

How the China Visa Online Application Works

The new process begins entirely online through the official China visa application portal.

Here’s what applicants need to do:

• Create an account on the China Online Visa Application system:https://www.visaforchina.cn/DEL3_EN/ 
• Fill out the complete visa application form
• Upload a recent passport-size photograph
• Upload all required supporting documents
• Submit the application for online review

Once submitted, the application enters the online review stage conducted by Chinese authorities.

Online Review Timeline for China Visa

The online document review usually takes:

• 2 to 4 working days in normal cases
• 5 to 7 working days during high application traffic

During this period, the embassy or visa office checks the uploaded documents carefully. If anything is unclear or incorrect, applicants may be asked to edit or re-upload specific files.

Any mistake at this stage can delay the entire process.

What “Online Approved” Actually Means

This is where most applicants get confused.

Online approval does NOT mean your visa is approved.

Online approval simply means:

• Your uploaded documents are acceptable
• You are eligible to submit your passport
• You can proceed to the visa center

After approval, the application status usually changes to:
“Online review completed” or “Passport to be submitted”

At this stage, no visa decision has been made yet.

Passport Submission at CVASC

Only after receiving online approval can applicants visit a Chinese Visa Application Service Center.

Key points to remember:

• Appointments are generally not required
• Walk-in submissions are allowed
• CVASC locations in India include New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata

Documents required at CVASC:

• Original passport
• Printed Visa Application Certificate or QR page
• Hard copies of all uploaded documents

If you visit CVASC without online approval, your submission will be rejected.

Is the China Visa Approved After Passport Submission?

No.

Passport submission does NOT mean visa approval.

Submission only indicates that:

• The embassy has received your passport
• Final background and application verification has started

The actual visa decision is made only after this stage.

Final China Visa Processing Time After Submission

The official processing timeline starts only after your passport is submitted at CVASC.

Typical timelines are:

• Regular processing: 4 to 6 working days
• Express processing: 2 to 3 working days
• Urgent processing: 1 to 2 working days (available only in rare cases)

Your China visa is approved only when:

• You collect your passport
• A visa sticker is affixed inside the passport

Until then, the application remains under review

 Why This Update Matters for Indian Travelers

This new China visa process for Indians in 2026 is designed to reduce errors, streamline document checks, and manage application volumes more efficiently.

However, misunderstanding the term “online approval” can lead to false expectations and travel delays. Applicants must carefully follow each step, upload documents correctly, and wait for final approval before making travel plans. Also Read: China Visa Online India 2026: Business Standard

Key Takeaways for China Visa Applicants

• China has not launched an e-visa for Indians
• Online application is mandatory before passport submission
• Online approval only allows passport submission
• Final visa approval happens after CVASC submission
• Processing time starts only after passport handover

 

 

Air India & Scoot Team Up to Open 70+ Asian & Australia Destinations

Air India Scoot partnership

Air India & Scoot Team Up to Open 70+ Asian & Australia Destinations

Air India has announced a new interline partnership with Scoot, the low-cost airline owned by Singapore Airlines, giving travellers access to more than 70 destinations across Southeast Asia, North Asia and Australia. This collaboration greatly expands travel options for flyers departing from India and enhances connectivity across the Asia-Pacific region.

Through this partnership, passengers can connect smoothly in Singapore and reach many cities that were previously beyond Air India’s direct network. Book your flights with Skyscanner: Skyscanner Flights

What This Partnership Means for Travellers

More Destinations via Singapore

Under this new agreement, Air India passengers can now take advantage of Scoot’s extensive route network — providing access to popular and off-the-beaten-path locations across 18 countries.

Some of the newly reachable destinations include:

• Macau SAR (China)

• Indonesia: Padang, Labuan Bajo

• Malaysia: Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi, Ipoh, Kuantan, Miri, Sibu, Malacca, Kota Bharu

• Philippines: Davao, Iloilo City

• Thailand: Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai

• Vietnam: Nha Trang, Phu Quoc

These are added to Scoot’s already broad network, opening doors to quieter beach towns, rainforest getaways, and cultural cities that previously required multiple bookings or indirect connections.

H3: Seamless Booking & Transfers

One of the biggest advantages of this partnership is the Inter-Airline Through Check-In (IATCI) feature. Travellers booking a single ticket through Air India can now receive boarding passes for both their Air India and Scoot flights right at their departure airport in India.

This means:

• Baggage can be checked through to the final destination (where local rules allow).

• Transfers in Singapore Changi Airport are faster and easier, with less waiting time.

Air India currently operates frequent flights to Singapore from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, making Singapore the perfect hub for onward travels with Scoot.

Why This Expansion Matters

Enhanced Connectivity for Indian Travellers

Asia-Pacific has become one of the world’s fastest-growing regions for air travel demand. Air India’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nipun Aggarwal, highlighted this trend, explaining that the new partnership allows Indian travellers to explore a wider variety of locations seamlessly.

From the lush rainforests of Malaysia and the sun-drenched beaches of Vietnam to the unique cultural hubs across Indonesia and Thailand, this deal puts many exciting destinations within easier reach for leisure and business travellers alike.

Scoot’s Perspective

Scoot’s Chief Commercial Officer, Calvin Chan, emphasised that the airline is eager to welcome more passengers from India and introduce them to Scoot’s growing list of unique destinations.

This partnership also supports travellers who are looking for affordable, multi-city Asia travel with the convenience of one-ticket booking — a big plus for both holidaymakers and frequent flyers.

Popular Destinations Now Easier to Reach

Thanks to this partnership, travellers can now plan trips to:

Southeast Asia

• Thailand: Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai

• Malaysia: Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching

• Indonesia: Labuan Bajo, Padang

• Vietnam: Nha Trang, Phu Quoc

• Philippines: Davao, Iloilo City The Economic Times

Beyond Asia

Although this specific partnership covers Asia and parts of Australia, Air India continues to expand reach globally through other partnerships and codeshare agreements with airlines such as Singapore Airlines and more — offering connections to Europe, Africa and beyond. Also Watch: Latest international flights update

Thailand Entry Rules Updated: Why Tourists Are Calling for Clearer Guidance

 

Yaowarat, Bangkok Thailand

Thailand Entry Rules Updated: Why Tourists Are Calling for Clearer Guidance

Thailand remains one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, but recent changes to entry procedures have prompted travel operators to ask the government to make entry rules clearer and more widely publicised.

As travellers report unexpected refusals at immigration checkpoints, the tourism sector is pushing for clearer communication on updated entry requirements, especially for visa-free visitors and frequent border crossers.

What Changed in Thailand’s Entry Rules?

Thailand’s immigration authorities recently tightened entry controls to curb misuse of visa-free stays and visa runs — a practice where travellers exit and re-enter the country repeatedly to extend short stays. globe.co.th

Stricter Limits on Visa-Free Entries

One of the key changes is limiting how often foreign visitors can enter under the visa exemption scheme without returning to their home country. In many cases, travellers are now allowed only two visa-free entries, after which they may be refused entry if they cannot justify further visits.

This move aims to prevent travellers from exploiting tourism exits for extended stays without proper long-term visas. However, some legitimate tourists have been caught off guard, leading to confusion and social media posts about entry refusals.

Concerns from Hotels and Tourism Operators

Hotel associations have reported instances where guests were turned away under the current visa-free policy. These incidents, even if relatively rare, can create uncertainty for visitors planning trips to Thailand.

Operators argue that if entry rules are not communicated clearly and regularly, many travellers may unknowingly breach policies and face denial at arrival.

Why Tourism Operators Want Better Publication

Preventing Misunderstandings and Misuse

Tourism leaders believe that greater transparency will reduce cases of travellers being surprised by new enforcement actions. They want the government to update entry guidelines frequently and ensure that information reaches tourists well before they plan to fly.

Suggesting Pre-Screening and Tech Solutions

Some private sector representatives have also encouraged the adoption of pre-screening systems and automated immigration gates — similar to electronic travel authorisation systems used in places like South Korea and Europe. This could help separate low-risk arrivals from cases that need further scrutiny. 

Since Thailand already requires the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) submitted online before arrival, immigration authorities already have basic traveller data well in advance.

Digital Arrival Cards and Entry Documentation

From May 1, 2025, Thailand introduced the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), replacing older paper forms for all foreign visitors entering by air, land, or sea.

This digital pre-arrival registration requires travellers to submit passport details and travel plans at least 72 hours before landing. The system helps streamline processing and supports efforts to improve immigration screening and border security. Also Read: Bangkok Post

What Travellers Should Know

If you are planning a trip to Thailand in 2025 or beyond:

• Check updated entry requirements before booking your flight.

• Prepare your TDAC at least three days before arrival.

• Know your visa-free limits and how many times you’ve entered Thailand under the scheme.

• Keep copies of proof of onward travel, accommodation, and funds to reduce the risk of denial.

• Monitor official government or airline websites for the most current guidance.

Staying informed helps avoid surprises at immigration and ensures a smooth travel experience. Also Watch:  

Thailand Visa-Free Entry Warning: 20,000 Baht Cash Check for Tourists

 

A view of Wat Arun Bangkok

Thailand Tightens Entry Checks: Tourists Asked to Show 20,000 Baht Cash

Travellers arriving in Thailand—especially those entering under the visa-free Thailand for Indians 2026 arrangement—are facing strict financial checks at immigration. Multiple passengers have reported being stopped, questioned, and in several cases, sent back directly from the airport for failing to show 20,000 Baht in cash.

If you’re travelling to Thailand soon, this update is extremely important.

🔍 What Exactly Is Happening at Immigration?

Over the past few weeks, several travellers shared similar experiences:

• Immigration officers are demanding physical cash only—specifically 20,000 Thai Baht per person.

• Card statements, screenshots, bank apps, or credit cards are often not accepted.

• Passengers unable to show the cash have been labelled as “high-risk travellers.”

• Some were immediately denied entry despite having confirmed hotel bookings and return tickets.

This is causing major concern for Indian tourists planning visa-free travel in 2026 and those currently entering Thailand.

⚠️ Why Is Thailand Doing This?

Thailand has intensified its crackdown on “pseudo-tourists”—people who enter visa-free but secretly stay longer, overstay, or work illegally.

Immigration has reported:

• A rise in overstays

• Increase in unauthorized work by foreigners

• Frequent “border runs” or repetitive entries

Due to this, officers have been instructed to:

• Increase interviews

• Check funds strictly

• Screen suspicious or unclear travellers more carefully

The result: more random checks and higher refusal rates.

💰 Understanding the Controversial 20,000 Baht Rule

Traditionally, the official requirement has been:

• 10,000 Baht per person, or

• 20,000 Baht per family

However, immigration officers at multiple airports are now enforcing:

➡️ 20,000 Baht per person (cash only)

Important points:

• There is no new announcement in the Royal Gazette.

• But officers are legally allowed to refuse entry if they feel a traveller cannot fund their stay.

• This is why even travellers with full bookings were still turned away.

To avoid risk, travellers are being advised to treat 20,000 Baht cash as mandatory.

🎯 Who Is Being Checked the Most?

According to recent traveller reports, these groups face the highest scrutiny:

• Solo male travellers

• Passengers carrying only hand luggage

• Tourists staying with friends rather than in hotels

• Frequent long-stay visitors

• Budget or low-fare flyers

• Travellers with unclear travel plans while answering questions

These travellers must be especially careful and well-prepared.

🧾 What You MUST Carry (Especially Indian Travellers)

To avoid being denied entry, ensure you carry:

• ✔️ 20,000 Thai Baht cash

• ✔️ Return flight ticket

• ✔️ Confirmed hotel booking or stay proof

• ✔️ Printed bank statement

• ✔️ Debit/credit card with sufficient funds

• ✔️ A clear travel plan

Also recommended:
Avoid Don Mueang Airport for now, as most reported cases are coming from there.

🛑 Final Message: Stay Prepared, Stay Safe

There is no new official law, but Thailand’s immigration checks have become much stricter. Until this situation stabilizes, you should:

• Treat the 20,000 Baht requirement as compulsory

• Carry all supporting documents

• Be honest and confident during questioning

Many tourists have already been denied entry within minutes. Don’t let this happen to you. Watch the video here:

India’s New Direct Flights: 14+ Routes You Can Book Right Now (2025 Update)

The video explains:

Are you a travel enthusiast eager to explore the world in 2025-2026? Look no further! Our breaking news video reveals the latest international flight updates for India, giving you exclusive insights into the most exciting destinations and routes to look forward to. Stay ahead of the game and watch the video now to plan your next adventure with the most up-to-date information available.

Why You Should Care: Flight Connectivity Just Got a Big Boost

If you’ve been postponing that international getaway due to long layovers or complicated routing — now’s the time to re-check your dream destinations. Several airlines have recently launched new direct flights from Indian cities to international destinations. From Southeast Asia’s beaches to bustling metropolises and cultural hotspots, these fresh routes make travel easier, faster, and often more affordable. 

Key New Direct Routes — Where You Can Fly Non-Stop

Here are some of the most notable fresh routes now open for booking. (Schedules and fares may vary, so always check with the airline.)

Route	Airline / Frequency / Notes
Kolkata → Guangzhou, China	Daily service by IndiGo, flight 6E 1703 — overnight departure & early morning arrival.
Kolkata → Siem Reap, Cambodia	3-times weekly via IndiGo from 13 Nov 2025 — convenient access to Angkor Wat & culture.
Delhi → Manila, Philippines	Operated by Air India from Oct 2025 — ideal for beach lovers, island-hoppers.
Delhi → Guangzhou, China	Daily non-stop flights by IndiGo starting Nov 2025 — reconnecting India–China air travel post-pandemic.
Pune → Bangkok, Thailand	New bi-weekly routes; easy visa-free access for Indians makes this a quick getaway option.
Pune → Dubai, UAE	Daily flights by IndiGo and other carriers — convenient for Gulf-bound travellers and Indians abroad.
Mumbai → Tbilisi, Georgia	Tri-weekly IndiGo flights launched Aug 2025: a new gateway to the Caucasus and Eastern Europe.
Mumbai → Manchester, UK	Non-stop thrice-weekly flights from July 2025 — first of its kind, opening easy access to UK from India.
Mumbai → Amsterdam, Netherlands	3-times per week — a new European link directly from India.
Mumbai → Almaty, Kazakhstan	Service by Air Astana thrice weekly — visa-free up to 14 days for Indians, opens Central Asia for a quick trip.
Mumbai → Krabi, Thailand	Daily flights started March 2025 — great for beach holidays and tropical escapes.
Mumbai → Seychelles	4-times weekly flights, started March 2025 — perfect for Indian travellers looking for island vacations.
Hyderabad → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam	Twice-weekly from March 2025 — good for culture, history, and Southeast Asia tours.
Bengaluru → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam	Tri-weekly from March 2025 — expanding flight options in South India.

 These flights dramatically expand India’s international connectivity — whether you’re seeking city breaks, beach holidays, cultural adventures, or business travel.

What This Means for Travellers

✅ Easier, Faster Travel

No more long layovers or multiple connections. Direct flights cut down travel time significantly, which means more time enjoying the destination and less time stuck in airports.

💸 Budget-Friendly Options

With low-cost carriers entering international routes and competitive fares starting around ₹17,000–₹27,000 (for one-way, depending on destination), many of these direct flights are more affordable than you might expect. Condé Nast Traveller India

🧭 New Horizons for Indian Travellers

From the temples of Siem Reap to the beaches of Seychelles, or the snow-capped peaks of Georgia and the vibrant streets of Manila — these routes open up a range of new travel possibilities for Indians.

🔄 Better Visa & Travel Convenience

Many of these destinations offer visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or visa-free access for Indians, enhancing convenience when combined with direct flights. Always check official visa requirements before booking.

Travel Tips Before Booking

• Book early: With new flights and limited seats, fares can spike fast — especially for holidays and weekends.

• Check visa norms: Even with direct flights, ensure your visa or e-visa status is sorted before booking.

• Be flexible: Direct flights may open more travel windows — consider mid-week travel for cheaper fares.

• Watch for offers: Airlines often run introductory discounts — sign up for alerts or newsletters.

• Compare direct vs connecting flights: For some long-haul trips, direct flights may be slightly more expensive but save hours — worth comparing total cost vs travel time.

Who Should Consider These New Routes?

• Frequent flyers seeking low-connectivity, quick travel

• Weekend or short-trip travellers looking for easy escapes

• Budget-conscious travellers hunting for value-based international travel

• First-time international travellers wanting simple, direct routes

• Digital nomads/business travellers needing efficient India–Europe/Asia connectivity

Conclusion: A New Golden Era of International Travel from India

With 14+ new direct international flights from India now bookable, 2025–2026 is shaping up as a great time for global explorers from India. Whether it’s Southeast Asia’s beaches, Europe’s historic cities, or remote islands — travel just got easier.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, that moment is here. Check visa requirements, pick your destination, and pack your bags — the world is suddenly much closer to home.