Amid the ongoing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia due to the border dispute, the Indian Embassy in Bangkok has released a new advisory. All Indian travellers have been advised to check updates from Thai official sources, including the TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok has been a preferred choice for many Indian travelers over the years. Of late, India has moved up to become the third-largest source market for Thailand in 2024, as per data reported by Skift.com.

In 2024, a record 2.1 million Indians visited Thailand, nearly 3% more than in 2023. The 2024 figures surpassed the pre-pandemic high of less than 2 million. The visa-free policy has been a major attraction for Indian tourists. In 2023, Thailand announced its visa waiver program.

Here’s What The Dispute Is All About

The dispute dates back more than a century, to a time when France ruled Cambodia until 1953 – upon gaining freedom, Cambodia first mapped the land border. There have been disagreements over the border ever since. The border stretches over 817 km, and disputes regarding it have flared up multiple times in the past.

The most recent incident began in May, when troops briefly exchanged fire due to a disputed area. The clash led to the death of a Cambodian soldier, sparking a series of counterfires and rising tensions. Amid the unrest, Thailand imposed border restrictions on Cambodia, while Cambodia retaliated by banning the import of fruits and vegetables and the broadcast of Thai films.

Tensions escalated further when five Thai military personnel were injured by landmines while patrolling near the border. Following the incident, Thailand shut down its northeastern border crossings with Cambodia, withdrew its ambassador, and expelled the Cambodian ambassador in protest. Cambodia soon recalled all its staff from the embassy in Bangkok and denied planting the landmines.