Thiruvananthapuram: The ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has raised concerns among tourists and tour operators in Kerala, following a travel advisory issued by the Indian embassy. The war, now in its fourth day, has seen heavy shelling along the border between the two countries.
Despite the situation, there have been no immediate cancellations, as most travelers from Kerala typically visit Thailand destinations like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket — areas that remain unaffected by the shelling. Cambodia, meanwhile, is currently in its off-season for Kerala tourists.
Sejo Jose of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) clarified that the tourist areas flagged in the advisory are not commonly visited by people from Kerala. “Most Keralites travel to Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, which are safe,” he said. However, he added that the situation is being closely monitored, and local tour operators have reached out to counterparts in Thailand for updates on safety.
Basheer Ahemed, a committee member for the southern region of the Outbound Tour Operators Association, echoed this sentiment, stating that travel has not been affected yet. “But it could become an issue if the conflict persists,” he warned. He also confirmed that life in Bangkok and Pattaya remains normal and that feedback from local contacts in Thailand has been reassuring.
Cambodia, which has recently emerged as a popular destination, is not expected to see immediate impacts due to the timing. “Kerala tourists usually start traveling to Cambodia from mid-August, often combining it with Vietnam,” explained Jose. “If the conflict continues, travel plans could be disrupted during the peak season.”
Manjari Singhal, Chief Growth and Business Officer at Cleartrip, noted a slight dip in travel to Thailand and Cambodia since the advisory was issued during the week of July 24. However, she remained optimistic. “The recent ceasefire, coupled with upcoming long weekends and festive holidays, could help revive travel interest,” she said.
Tourists and travel companies are now hoping for a ceasefire to ensure safe and uninterrupted travel to these popular Southeast Asian destinations.
