Indians Flock to Singapore in 2025, Over 1.2 Million Visitors Recorded

 

Singapore skyline Marina Bay

India’s Growing Travel Demand Drives Singapore Tourism

India continues to be one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets, and Singapore remains a top destination for Indian tourists. In 2025, more than 1.2 million Indians visited Singapore, showing steady growth and strong demand for international travel.

This trend highlights how Indian travellers are increasingly choosing short-haul international destinations for leisure, business, and events.

Singapore Sees Steady Rise in Indian Visitors

Singapore welcomed over 1.2 million Indian visitors in 2025, marking a slight increase compared to 2024. This confirms India’s position as one of Singapore’s key source markets for tourism.

Overall, Singapore recorded around 16.9 million international visitors in 2025, showing steady recovery and growth in global travel demand.

Indian Tourist Spending on the Rise

Indian tourists are not only traveling more but also spending more. Tourism receipts from Indian visitors reached about S$1.17 billion during the first three quarters of 2025, representing a noticeable increase compared to the previous year.

This growth is supported by better air connectivity, marketing campaigns, and partnerships with airlines, hotels, and travel companies targeting Indian travelers.

Marketing Campaigns and Partnerships Boost Travel

Singapore launched major campaigns and collaborations with airlines, travel agencies, and retail partners to attract Indian tourists. These initiatives offered special deals, incentives, and experiences for leisure and corporate travellers, including MICE tourism.

The year 2025 also marked 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore, strengthening tourism ties between the two countries.

What This Means for Indian Travellers

The rising number of Indian visitors shows strong demand for international travel, especially to nearby Asian destinations. Singapore continues to attract Indian tourists due to visa-friendly policies, connectivity, shopping, family attractions, and business opportunities.

With outbound travel from India expected to grow further, Singapore is likely to remain a top destination for Indian travellers in the coming years. Also Read: Economic Times

Related News from Travel Man Today: Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa Extended & Tourist Visa Updates for 2026

India Budget 2026: Major Boost for Travel, TCS Cuts & Tourism Growth

 

TCS cut announcement on overseas tour packages

India Budget 2026 Unveils Big Wins for Travel and Tourism

India’s Union Budget 2026–27 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has placed strong emphasis on strengthening the travel and tourism industry, making significant policy changes that benefit travellers and bolster sector growth. The new measures include lower taxes on foreign travel, enhanced infrastructure plans, hospitality skilling, and new tourism initiatives to attract both domestic and international visitors.

TCS Reduction: More Affordable International Travel

A major highlight for travellers is the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) cut on overseas tour packages. Under Budget 2026, the TCS rate on international travel and related services has been simplified to a flat 2 %, replacing the previous tiered system of 5 % and 20 % slabs. This change immediately reduces the upfront tax burden for Indian travellers booking foreign holidays and related services, making overseas trips more affordable and easier to plan.

New Tourism Infrastructure and Connectivity Projects

High-Speed Rail Corridors and Waterways

The budget outlines ambitious infrastructure expansions to grow long-distance travel connectivity. Seven high-speed rail corridors will link major cities and act as “growth connectors”, reducing intercity travel time and boosting tourism engagement across regions. Additionally, 20 new national waterways are planned to elevate water transport and support tourism development in coastal and riverine areas.

Medical Tourism and Travel Hubs

To further promote tourism, the government proposed the creation of five regional medical tourism hubs in collaboration with state governments and private partners. These hubs are designed to integrate healthcare with hospitality and attract global medical travellers. 

Hospitality Skilling and Digital Tourism Initiatives

National Institute of Hospitality

To professionalise the travel and tourism workforce, Budget 2026 proposes establishing a National Institute of Hospitality by upgrading the existing National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology. This institution will link education, industry, and skill development to raise service standards nationwide.

Tourist Guide Upskilling

A pilot scheme has been announced to upskill 10,000 tourist guides through hybrid training at 20 iconic destinations. Enhanced guide training will enrich visitor experiences and create more employment opportunities.

Digital Tourism Grid

Budget 2026 also includes plans to develop a National Destination Digital Knowledge Grid, a digital repository documenting cultural, heritage, and spiritual sites across India, improving planning and promotion of destinations.

Boost for Heritage, Adventure & Experiential Tourism

The government intends to develop 15 archaeological sites into vibrant cultural attractions with curated walkways, storytelling experiences, and digital interpretation. Budget 2026 emphasises eco-tourism development including mountain trails in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, and wildlife-linked tourism routes across coastal states.

What These Changes Mean for Travellers

• Lower overseas travel costs: With the TCS cut to 2 %, Indians face reduced upfront costs when planning international trips.

• Better connectivity: High-speed rail and waterways improve access to remote regions and new destinations.

• Enhanced travel skills: Professional training for hospitality and tourist guides boosts service quality.

• Richer experiences: Development of heritage, adventure, and cultural sites invites diverse travel interests.

These initiatives aim to position India as a more attractive travel destination, stimulate job growth, and drive foreign exchange earnings through tourism. Also Read: NDTV India

China Visa for Indians 2026: New Rules, Fees, Photos & Approval Process Explained

 

China Visa for Indians: What Has Changed in 2026?

If you are planning to apply for a China visa from India, be careful. The process has changed completely, and following old YouTube videos or outdated blogs can lead to automatic rejection.

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the latest China visa rules, explained in simple language so you don’t make costly mistakes.

Pre-Application Step: Pay First or Get Rejected

This is the biggest and most important change.

You can no longer fill the China visa application form first.

New Mandatory Rule

You must pay the VFS logistics or service fee online first.
Only after successful payment will the system allow you to access the visa application form.

If you skip this payment, your application is automatically rejected.
There is no correction and no second chance.

Choose Service Type Carefully

During payment, you must select:

• Normal service, or

• Express service

Once selected, this cannot be changed later.

Proof of Payment

You must keep:

• A screenshot of the payment success page

• The payment confirmation email

You will need both during the process.

Photo Requirements: The Silent Reason for Rejection

Many China visa applications fail because of photo mistakes.

Photo Size Rules

• File size must be more than 40 KB

• Anything smaller leads to instant rejection

Exact Photo Dimensions

• 354 x 472 pixels
  Not approximate. Not close. Exact dimensions only.

Dress Code Matters

• Wear a dark-colored shirt or T-shirt

• Light clothes on a white background can cause rejection

Strict Warning on AI Photos

Do not use AI-generated photos.
China’s system is very good at detecting them.

If detected, your application can be flagged or rejected.

Visa Validity vs Stay Period: Don’t Get Confused

Many travellers overstay because they misunderstand this rule.

Single Entry Visa

• Validity: 3 months

• Stay allowed: 30 days

Double Entry Visa

• Validity: 6 months

• Stay allowed: 30 days per entry

Multiple Entry Visa

• Validity: 12 months

• Stay allowed: 30 days per entry

Visa validity is not your stay duration.
Your stay resets only after you exit and re-enter China.

Tourist (L) Visa vs Business (M) Visa Explained

Tourist Visa (L)

You do not need an invitation letter if you have:

• Confirmed hotel booking

• Confirmed flight tickets

Business Visa (M): Common Mistake

For the Address of Stay, do not use the company address.

You must enter the hotel address only.
Company details are added in a different section, not under stay address.

Financial Details and Sponsorship Rules

If Your Company Is Sponsoring the Trip

Mention the relationship as Employer.

If You Are Self-Funded

Upload:

• 6 months to 1 year of bank statements

Make sure the name matches exactly with your passport.
Even a small mismatch can cause delays or queries.

Document Upload Stage: What to Upload

This stage directly affects how fast your visa is processed.

Legal Status Proof

Upload one of the following:

• Aadhaar Card, or

• Valid rental agreement

Travel History

You can upload up to three previous Chinese visas.
This is highly recommended if available.

Business Visa Applicants Must Upload

• Invitation letter from the Chinese company

• Business registration document of the Chinese company

Final Submission and Processing Timeline

Once you click Submit, the application is locked.
No edits are allowed.

Made a Mistake?

You can cancel the application and start a fresh one from the Personal Center.

Processing Timeline

• Online approval: Around 15 to 20 days

• Approval is sent by email

Only after approval do you visit the visa centre.

At the Visa Centre

• Carry hard copies of all uploaded documents

• Visa stamping fee is paid at the centre

• Payment mode: Cash or Demand Draft (not online)

Final Visa Stamping

• Takes an additional 4 to 5 working days

Final Takeaway

China visa rules for Indians have changed completely.
Following old information will almost certainly lead to rejection.

If you follow the new process step by step, you can avoid delays, mistakes, and unnecessary stress.

If you want a China visa checklist PDF, comment “China Visa” and it can be shared next.

India Raises Duty-Free Allowance to ₹75,000 Under New Baggage Rules

 

India duty-free allowance increase

India Boosts Duty-Free Allowance with New Baggage Rules 2026

India has unveiled major changes to its Baggage Rules 2026, bringing notable benefits for international passengers arriving by air or sea. Effective from February 2, 2026, the updated customs regulations raise the duty-free allowance and introduce new traveler-friendly measures designed to modernise luggage processing at entry points.

The revised framework, formally notified by the Ministry of Finance and included in the Customs Baggage (Declaration and Processing) Regulations, 2026, replaces the decade-old rules, reflecting rising travel volumes and global economic conditions.

Higher Duty-Free Allowance for Various Travellers

One of the most impactful updates is the increase in general duty-free limits for passengers arriving in INDIA:

Passenger Category	Previous Limit	New Duty-Free Limit
Indian residents	₹50,000	₹75,000
Tourists of Indian origin	₹50,000	₹75,000
Foreign nationals	₹50,000	₹75,000
Foreign tourists	₹15,000	₹25,000
Crew members	₹1,500	₹2,500

Simplified Jewellery Allowance

The new baggage framework also revamps jewellery import rules:

• Female travellers may bring up to 40 grams of jewellery duty-free.

• Other travellers can carry up to 20 grams duty-free.

These limits replace older value-based caps, streamlining customs procedures and aligning allowances with current gold prices.

New Benefits: Laptops, Pets, and More

Under the updated rules, several long-standing concessions have been formally recognised:

• One laptop duty-free for travellers aged 18 and above.

• Pets can be declared without confusion under the new regulations, easing travel for animal owners.

• Temporary imports and re-imports are now easier to process with official certificates, helping professionals and frequent flyers.

Digital Declarations & Faster Customs

A major component of the Baggage Rules 2026 is the focus on digital processing and faster clearance:

• Advanced electronic baggage declarations reduce manual paperwork.

• Standardised procedures across airports mean less confusion and quicker exit times.

• The consolidation of older circulars brings consistency to how customs officials handle passenger imports.

What This Means for Travellers

In practical terms, the updated rules make travel into India:

• Less stressful for international visitors.

• More predictable with higher duty-free limits.

• Simplified at customs counters with weight-based jewellery rules.

• Better aligned with global travel practices and inflation.

These changes not only benefit residents returning from abroad but also boost convenience for tourists and business travellers worldwide. Also Read: The Hindu

Related News from Travel Man Today: Sri Lanka Introduces Digital Nomad Visa and 180-Day Tourist Stay in 2026

Is Thailand Becoming More Expensive? New Fees, Events & Travel Costs

Is Thailand Becoming More Expensive? New Fees, Events & Travel Costs

Thailand has long been known as one of Asia’s most affordable travel destinations. From budget hotels and cheap street food to low-cost domestic travel, it built its reputation on value-for-money tourism.

But recently, travelers have started asking a serious question: is Thailand becoming more expensive, or is this just online panic?

With mega projects, global festivals, rising airport charges, and a strengthening Thai baht, the cost structure of traveling to Thailand is clearly shifting. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s changing and what it really means for travelers.

Thailand’s Shift Toward Mega Tourism Projects

Disneyland-Style Theme Park Plans

Thailand is exploring the idea of a large-scale, Disneyland-style theme park, potentially the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.

The proposed location falls within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), covering Chonburi, Rayong, and Pattaya. The nearest airport would be U-Tapao Rayong–Pattaya International Airport, which is already being positioned as a future aviation hub.

This project is still in the planning and feasibility stage. There has been no official confirmation from Disney. Thai authorities have also stated that if a global brand does not come onboard, the country may build a similar licensed theme park independently.

Public opinion is divided. Some question the climate and feasibility, while others believe it could work if delays and corruption are controlled.

Why This Matters for Travel Costs

If such a project moves forward, it would significantly increase tourist demand. Family travel, long-stay tourism, and premium visitors would rise, pushing up hotel prices, rental costs, and transport fares in the Pattaya–Rayong region.

This would not cause instant price hikes, but it creates long-term upward pressure on travel costs. The focus clearly shifts toward premium tourism rather than ultra-budget mass travel.

Tomorrowland Thailand: A Confirmed Global Festival

Thailand has officially announced Tomorrowland Thailand, one of the world’s biggest music festivals.

• Dates: December 11–13, 2026

• Location: Wisdom Valley, Pattaya

• Plan: Multi-year recurring event

Global festivals bring international crowds, and with them come hotel price spikes, higher flight fares, and surge pricing across nearby cities.

Even travelers not attending the festival can feel the impact if they are visiting Pattaya or nearby areas during the event period. This marks Thailand’s move toward event-driven tourism, which boosts revenue but creates seasonal cost surges.

Infrastructure Built for High-Value Tourism

Thailand is also investing heavily in infrastructure aimed at premium travelers.

One major project is the high-speed rail line connecting three airports:

• Don Mueang

• Suvarnabhumi

• U-Tapao

This rail link is part of the Eastern Economic Corridor master plan, designed to support mega attractions, business zones, and seamless travel.

While the convenience is undeniable, premium infrastructure often leads to premium pricing. Areas around major stations usually see rising hotel rates, increased rents, and higher local living costs. Improved quality rarely comes with lower prices.

Airport Fees Are Increasing Across Thailand

Thailand has approved a significant increase in international airport charges.

The Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for international flights will rise from 730 baht to 1,120 baht, an increase of 390 baht per passenger. This change will take effect in early 2026, with full implementation by Q1 2026.

Airports affected include:

• Bangkok Suvarnabhumi

• Don Mueang

• Phuket

• Chiang Mai

• Chiang Rai

• Hat Yai

The increase is intended to fund new terminals, capacity expansion, and long-term growth. For travelers, however, this is a direct and unavoidable cost increase.

Additional Aviation Fees Add Up

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has also raised its aviation fee from 15 baht to 25 baht, applicable to both arrivals and departures, effective February 1, 2026.

At regional airports such as Krabi and Surat Thani:

• International PSC has increased from 400 to 425 baht

• Domestic PSC has increased from 50 to 75 baht

These may seem like small changes, but combined with other fees, they add up, especially for travelers flying domestically or through multiple airports.

The Hidden Cost: A Stronger Thai Baht

Beyond official fees, currency strength plays a major role in travel costs.

The Thai baht has been strengthening, which directly impacts Indian travelers, Southeast Asian tourists, digital nomads, and budget visitors.

A stronger baht means hotels, food, transport, and daily expenses feel more expensive in foreign currencies. Unlike one-time airport charges, currency strength affects every single day of your stay.

For long-stay travelers and remote workers, this is often the biggest cost factor.

So, Is Thailand Becoming Unaffordable?

Thailand is not suddenly expensive, but the direction is clear.

With mega attractions, global festivals, premium infrastructure, higher aviation fees, and a stronger currency, Thailand is moving away from ultra-cheap mass tourism toward high-capacity, high-value tourism.

Budget travel still exists, but it now requires better timing, smarter planning, and more flexibility than before.

Final Verdict

Is Thailand becoming more expensive?
Slowly, yes.

Not overnight, and not dramatically, but the evolution is happening. Travelers who plan ahead can still enjoy Thailand affordably, while those expecting old-school prices may feel the change.

Related News from Travel Man Today:  TAGTHAi App Review: Thailand’s VIP Travel Hack Explained 

Thailand Studies 200-Billion-Baht Rail Fund to Boost Electric Train System

Thailand Future Fund electric train concession buyback

Thailand Considers Big Fund to Finance Electric Rail Lines

Thailand is exploring a major infrastructure move to strengthen and unify its electric rail network. The State Enterprise Policy Office (Sepo) has begun studying plans for a new 200-billion-baht Thailand Future Fund, aimed at acquiring existing electric rail concessions and financing future development.

This initiative is intended to support wider transport goals, such as making rail travel more affordable, efficient, and interconnected — part of a broader strategy to improve public transport in the Bangkok metropolitan area and beyond.

What the Proposed Fund Would Do

Buying Back Electric Rail Concessions

The key idea behind the Thailand Future Fund is to purchase the operating concessions of existing electric rail lines. These concessions are currently held by private operators under contracts with the government. Acquiring them would give authorities greater control over fares, services, and network planning.

This follows recent discussions and plans to unify public transport operations and fare structures, including the highly publicized 20-baht fare policy for electric rail transit in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces.

Why the Fund Matters for Public Transit

Making Rail Travel More Affordable

One of the main motivations for creating the fund is to support fare policies that keep commuting costs low — especially for daily passengers in Bangkok. A unified fare structure, backed by state funding, could reduce dependence on private concession models that often lead to varied pricing and ticketing systems.

Supporting Transit Infrastructure Growth

If established, the fund could be used not only to buy back concessions but also to invest in network expansion, upgrades, and interoperability between lines. This aligns with longer-term objectives to make electric rail the backbone of Thai urban transport and support commuter convenience and sustainability.

Boosting Ridership and Lower Congestion

Affordable, well-integrated rail lines encourage more commuters to choose public transit — which can help reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution, and improve overall quality of life for residents. Unified fare policies and strategic financing could unlock this potential. 

How It Fits With Existing Transport Policies

20-Baht Flat Fare Initiative

The proposed fund is closely linked to Thailand’s push for a capped 20-baht fare on electric rail lines — a policy designed to make rail travel more accessible. Although implementation timelines have seen legislative challenges, the broader framework remains attractive to policymakers.

Common Ticketing and Integration

Thailand passed the Joint Ticket Management Act to unify ticketing across different transit modes — an essential step toward simplifying travel and managing subsidies efficiently.

Bringing rail concessions under state control could help accelerate ticketing integration and reduce the fragmentation that has long challenged Bangkok’s transit ecosystem.

Potential Impact on Commuters and Tourists

For Daily Riders

An infrastructure fund with the power to streamline operations and subsidize fares could mean cheaper, more reliable travel for daily commuters — particularly in one of Southeast Asia’s most congested cities.

For Tourists

Improved electric rail systems make it easier for visitors to navigate Bangkok and other major cities — with unified fares, clearer route connections, and expanded coverage.

A stronger rail network also enhances Thailand’s appeal as a smart, modern destination for international travellers.

Challenges and Considerations

Funding and Legislative Approval

Creating a 200-billion-baht fund requires final approval from multiple government stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance and the Cabinet. Discussions are ongoing about revenue sources and how to structure the fund legally.

Balancing Private and Public Roles

While state acquisition of concessions could streamline operations, it also raises questions about market competition, efficiency, and the future role of private operators in Thailand’s transit landscape. Also Read:Bangkok Post

Sri Lanka Introduces Digital Nomad Visa and 180-Day Tourist Stay in 2026

Sri Lanka Rolls Out New Visa Options for Long-Stay Travelers in 2026

Sri Lanka has announced major visa reforms for 2026, introducing its first-ever Digital Nomad Visa and extending the tourist visa stay to 180 days. These changes aim to attract long-term visitors, remote workers, and slow travelers while boosting tourism revenue without impacting local jobs.

The new visa options position Sri Lanka as an emerging destination for digital nomads and extended-stay tourists in South Asia.

Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa 2026: Key Details

Sri Lanka has officially launched a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, designed for remote workers who earn income from outside the country.

Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Must be 18 years or older

• Must work remotely as an employee, freelancer, or business owner

• Income must come only from outside Sri Lanka

• Business or employer must not be registered in Sri Lanka

• Must meet a minimum income threshold set by the Sri Lankan government (exact amount yet to be clarified)

Visa Validity and Fees

• Valid for up to one year

• Renewal is allowed

• Government visa fee: USD 500 per applicant for the first year

What the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa Allows

Holders of the digital nomad visa can:

• Live long-term in Sri Lanka

• Enroll children in international or private schools

• Open and use local bank accounts

• Rent or lease property

• Access utilities such as electricity, water, and internet

• Use co-working spaces

• Attend local tech, startup, and tourism events

Activities Not Allowed on the Digital Nomad Visa

Digital nomad visa holders cannot:

• Work for Sri Lankan companies

• Take local employment

• Earn income from within Sri Lanka

• Engage in domestic commercial activities

The visa is strictly for foreign income earners.

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Extended to 180 Days

Sri Lanka has also expanded its traditional tourist visa duration from 90 days to up to 180 days, making it more attractive for long-stay tourists and slow travelers.

How to Apply

• Applications can be submitted online

• Use the Sri Lanka Tourist Mobile App

• Processed via the Electronic Tourist Visa Activation System

• No embassy or consulate visit required

Tourist Visa Fees by Nationality

Visa fees for the extended tourist stay vary:

• SAARC countries: USD 70

• Non-SAARC countries: USD 85

• Countries under bilateral agreements (such as Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles): USD 50

Work Rules for Tourists in Sri Lanka

Tourist visa holders:

• Cannot work locally

• Cannot earn income inside Sri Lanka

• May only represent or promote an overseas business without formal employment or local income generation

Why Sri Lanka Is Making These Visa Changes

Sri Lanka’s visa reforms aim to:

• Encourage longer stays

• Increase local spending by foreign visitors

• Support tourism recovery

• Attract remote workers without affecting domestic employment

With a dedicated digital nomad visa, Sri Lanka becomes one of the first countries in the region to formally welcome remote professionals under a clear legal framework. Also Read: Economic Times 

Related News from Travel Man Today: TAGTHAi App Review: Thailand’s VIP Travel Hack Explained 

TAGTHAi App Review: Thailand’s VIP Travel Hack on a Budget

 

TAGTHAi App Review: Travel Thailand Like a VIP on a Budget

Want to travel Thailand like a VIP while still sticking to a backpacker’s budget? From private London-style taxis to free travel insurance and cash-free QR payments, Thailand’s official tourism super app — TAGTHAi — promises it all.

But is TAGTHAi truly the ultimate travel hack, or just clever marketing hype? Let’s break it down honestly.

What Is TAGTHAi? The Basics Explained

TAGTHAi is a joint initiative between the Thai government and private partners, designed to create a single “Super App” for tourists visiting Thailand.

It’s not just for luxury travelers. It’s built for everyone, including budget travelers, solo backpackers, and families.

You can download the app before landing in Thailand, and think of it as three tools rolled into one.

1. Travel Marketplace

Book individual tours, attractions, food experiences, spa sessions, and activities instantly from verified partners.

2. Attraction Pass System

This is where most travelers save serious money. The passes bundle high-value attractions into one price.

3. Utility Tool

The app also helps with:

• VAT refund tracking

• Cash-free QR payments

• Emergency assistance features

TAGTHAi “Superpowers”: Benefits That Matter

Before talking about pricing, it’s important to understand the real perks. TAGTHAi is not just a booking app — it’s a travel utility belt.

VIP Upgrade: Private London-Style Cabs

In Bangkok, TAGTHAi gives you access to CABB Taxis.

These are private, London-style black cabs that are:

• Clean

• Professional

• Far superior to standard ride-hailing options

For travelers who value comfort without paying luxury hotel prices, this feature alone is a big win.

Automatic 24-Hour Travel Insurance

This is one of TAGTHAi’s most underrated benefits.

The moment you scan your first ticket in the app, you are automatically covered by 24-hour travel accident insurance.

No extra paperwork.
No additional cost.
Just instant peace of mind.

Cash-Free Payments With TAGTHAi Easy Pay

Thailand runs on PromptPay QR codes, which most tourists normally can’t use without a Thai bank account.

TAGTHAi Easy Pay changes that.

You can pay for:

• Street food

• Souvenirs

• Small local markets

Simply by scanning a QR code.

No heavy coins.
No card rejections.
No foreign transaction fees from your bank.

Faster VAT Refunds for Tourists

Claiming Thailand’s 7% VAT refund is usually paperwork-heavy and time-consuming.

TAGTHAi digitizes the process.

You track eligible purchases inside the app and avoid long manual queues at the airport.

Online VAT Refund: How It Works

When you spend 2,000 baht or more at a “VAT Refund for Tourists” store:

1. Ask for the e-P.P.10 form

2. Upload it into the TAGTHAi app

3. The app tracks your total refund automatically

You still need to visit the Customs Office before check-in, but because your data is already digital, the process is much faster than the traditional paper route.

TAGTHAi Easy Pay: The Secret Weapon

This may be the most powerful feature of the app.

How to Activate Easy Pay

1. Visit a Kasikorn Bank (K-Bank) booth at the airport or a mall

2. Show your passport

3. Load cash onto the PAY & TOUR card

4. Link it to the TAGTHAi app

Why This Matters

• Small stalls often don’t accept cards

• Almost all accept QR payments

• You can freeze the card instantly if lost

• K-Bank offers guaranteed buyback at the same exchange rate

If you have leftover balance at the end of your trip, K-Bank buys it back at the same rate, so you don’t lose money on currency fluctuations.

Choosing the Right TAGTHAi Pass (Very Important)

TAGTHAi passes are valid for 24 hours from your first scan.

Pro tip:
Do not scan a low-value item late in the evening if you plan to use the pass for a big tour the next morning.

City-Wise TAGTHAi Pass Comparison

Bangkok: Luxury vs Culture

If you want the elite experience, the Premium Pass is the best option.

It includes:

• VIP CABB taxis

• Live Muay Thai at Rajadamnern Stadium

• PAÑPURI Wellness luxury onsen

The Day Pass works for budget explorers but relies more on public transport.

Pattaya: Theme Parks & Planning

Pattaya is about big attractions.

The Premium Pass includes:

• Ramayana Water Park

• Tiffany’s Cabaret Show

Important note:
Attractions like the Sanctuary of Truth must be reserved 24 hours in advance via the app.

Chiang Mai: Nature vs Tradition

Chiang Mai offers:

• A “Good Morning Pass” for almsgiving tours

• A Premium Pass covering ziplining and elephant sanctuaries

These premium activities alone often cost more than the pass, making everything else — food and massages — feel almost free.

Phuket: The Big Three Rule

Phuket passes focus on:

• Hanuman World Zipline

• Banana Beach

• Elephant Sanctuary

If you plan to do any two of these, the pass becomes highly profitable.

Boat transfers to Koh Hey are also included, saving time and money.

Ayutthaya: History & Heritage

Ayutthaya keeps it simple with a single Day Pass.

It includes:

• Thai dessert cooking class

• Viral 3D Temple Ice Cream experience

Perfect for history lovers and Instagram travelers.

Honest Verdict: Is TAGTHAi Worth It?

TAGTHAi isn’t perfect.

Some travelers may find certain tours slightly cheaper when booking directly.
Phuket and Pattaya passes require good planning due to advance reservations.

But if you value:

• Convenience

• Automatic insurance

• Cash-free payments

• VIP taxis

• Luxury experiences at discounted prices

TAGTHAi is a powerhouse app.

It’s like having a Thai travel agent in your pocket — 24/7. Download: Tagthai