Thailand Tourism News — Koh Lanta & Andaman Travel Updates
Two rocks off Koh Lanta rank among Thailand's best dives, and the national park shuts them for six months a year
Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, Red Rock and Purple Rock, lie about 80 to 90 minutes by boat from Koh Lanta inside Mu Ko Lanta National Park, which closes them from 16 May to 15 November. Operators quote depths from 5 to 70 metres and disagree on the manta and whale shark season.
Yala Aims to Become GI Metropolis Boosting Local Produce
Yala, Thailand’s southernmost province, is known for its slogan, “The southernmost of Siam, a beautiful border city”. But beneath its mountains, fresh air and fertile land lies a natural advantage that the municipality hopes will help transform its economy. Mineral-rich soil, clean air and fresh water are among the factors that Yala City Municipality says […]
Nan Province Launches Slow Life Night Run for Winter Tourism
Nan Province is set to host the Slow Life Night Run on 23‑24 October, expecting over 2,000 runners to enjoy a night‑time tour of the city’s landmarks. The event includes a fancy‑dress competition, free concerts and festive lighting, aiming to boost winter tourism and promote sports‑based travel. Officials launched the initiative at a press conference attended by the governor, tourism officials and local celebrities.
Thai Tourism Groups Oppose Outbound Travel Tax Over Revenue Loss
Thai tourism groups, led by ATTA, have protested a proposed 1,000‑baht outbound travel tax, warning it could cost the country 75 billion baht in lost revenue. They say the tax would add to existing cost increases, such as higher airport fees and a planned tourist surcharge, at a time when foreign visitor numbers are already declining. If implemented, the tax could cut arrivals by about 1.5 million and push total tourism earnings below the 30‑million‑visitor target.
Cool Weather Boosts Chiang Mai Tourism at Doi Inthanon
CHIANG MAI — Tourism is beginning to pick up in Chiang Mai as temperatures fall, with Doi Inthanon and the Bua Tong Waterfall and Seven-Coloured Spring Forest Park among the most popular destinations. On 16 October, conditions at Doi Inthanon summit and the Kew Mae Pan viewpoint in Chom Thong district were clear, with very […]
Central Pattana Teams With Universal Music For Halloween Fest 2026
Central Pattana and Universal Music Thailand are launching Thailand’s Halloween Fest 2026 Monster Beats from October 23‑31 at Central malls nationwide. The event features haunted houses, special deals, a music playlist, and the return of the Spooky Boo giant ghost at Central World, aiming to create Thailand’s largest monster music festival.
KGH Launches Affordable Hotel Brand Amid Thailand Tourism Recovery
KGH, operator of the Kokotel hotel brand, manages 56 hotels with over 4,000 rooms across Thailand, the Philippines, and Japan. It plans to launch an affordable new brand in November, use AI to cut costs, and partner with KKP for funding, even as Thailand’s tourism recovery remains incomplete. The firm sees the challenging market as an opportunity to improve hotel management efficiency and expand its portfolio.
Public Objects to Kaeng Krachan Trail Run Citing Wildlife Concerns
Residents and environmental groups have submitted a petition opposing the Wild Race trail run event scheduled for November 1 in Kaeng Krachan National Park, citing fears that the large influx of participants could disturb wildlife and damage the UNESCO World Heritage site. Organizers, including the National Parks Association and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, argue that the proposed routes are already used by the park for regular patrols and bird‑watching, and will not harm the ecosystem. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s deputy permanent secretary is set to hear the public’s concerns.
Bangkok Bids to Host WorldPride 2030 at Cultural Center
Bangkok has launched its bid to host WorldPride 2030, unveiling a bid book at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Deputy Governor Poraphan Na S. Vikitset said the city is ready to become a global centre of love and equality, citing Thailand’s equal‑marriage law and various Pride initiatives. The bid pits Bangkok against Barcelona as it seeks to host the international LGBTQ+ festival in 2030.
ThaiBev Promotes Bangkok as Global Art Hub via Biennale 2026
Thai Beverage (ThaiBev) announced the fifth Bangkok Art Biennale 2026, running from October 29, 2026 to February 28, 2027, under the theme “Angels and Mara.” The festival will feature over 200 contemporary artworks from 72 artists of 29 nationalities displayed at 11 venues across central Bangkok, including Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and One Bangkok. Organizers expect the event to draw around 1.2 million visitors and generate about 3.54 billion baht for Thailand’s tourism sector.
Culture Ministry Promotes Five End‑of‑Lent Traditions to Boost Tourism
The Ministry of Culture is promoting five regional end‑of‑Buddhist Lent traditions across Thailand from October 16‑31, 2026, to preserve cultural heritage and stimulate local tourism. Events include merit‑making ceremonies, boat races, bee‑castle offerings, and almsgiving processions in Bangkok, Surat Thani, Uthai Thani, and Kalasin. Minister Sabieda Thai‑set said the activities reflect local lifestyles and provide opportunities for merit‑making and community income.
TAT Launches Third Year of ASEAN India Shoppers Project 2026
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched the third year of its ASEAN India+ Shoppers in Thailand 2026 project, aiming to boost travel and spending from ASEAN, India, and South Asian markets. Under the 'More Value More Thailand' concept, over 50 partners provide vouchers, discounts, and gifts to enhance visitor experiences and promote Thailand as a regional shopping destination. TAT expects the initiative to attract about 30,000 participants and generate at least 244 million baht in tourism revenue.