Thailand Tourism News — Koh Lanta & Andaman Travel Updates
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.
TAT Promotes 2026 Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession
TAT highlights the 2026 Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession, taking place from 16–27 October, with the main spectacle on 26 October. The Mekong celebration brings together Buddhist traditions, illuminated craftsmanship, longboat races, Isan cuisine and vibrant cultural performances, supporting local communities and inviting visitors to explore Thailand’s distinctive living heritage.
Thailand Opens Andaman Sea Tourism Season with Safety Measures
Thailand's Andaman Sea national parks reopened for tourism on October 15, 2026, after a seasonal closure to let ecosystems recover. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suwat Chomglin emphasized strict safety measures and urged visitors to follow conservation guidelines. The reopening covers major parks including Similan, Surin, Phi Phi, Lanta, and Phang Nga Bay, with controls on visitor numbers and boat traffic.
Thailand Hosts International Dragon Boat Festival in Rayong
The Thai Rowing Sports Association announced the Thailand International Dragon Boat Festival 2026 will take place on 5–6 December in Rayong, expecting over 1,100 athletes and officials from 11 countries. The event, supported by EGAT and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, aims to boost sports tourism and showcase Thailand as a sports destination. Officials said the competition will strengthen international ties and provide economic benefits to local businesses.
Nong Nooch World Pattaya Renews Nine Prayer Flags For Safety
Nong Nooch World Pattaya in Chonburi held a ceremony on October 10, 2069 to replace nine Himalayan-style prayer flags, praying for safety from natural disasters. Led by President Kumphon Tansajja and nine monks, the ritual included blessing the flags with powder, gold leaf, and holy water. The event aimed to preserve cultural traditions while expressing solidarity with those affected by recent natural hazards.
Thai Team Aims for Flag Record With Skydive Over Pattaya
SuperToom and the ONE FLAG THAILAND team plan to set a new world record by unfurling a 448‑square‑metre Thai flag while skydiving over Pattaya on Dec 5, 2026. The announcement was made at a press conference in Bangkok, with support from Pattaya city officials, Siriraj Hospital and various sponsors. The event aims to promote national unity and raise Pattaya’s profile as a sport‑city destination.
Cape Fan Koh Samui Hotel Wins 1 Michelin Key 2026
Cape Fan Koh Samui hotel has been awarded a 1 Michelin Key for 2026, recognising its outstanding architecture, service and luxury experience. The accolade underscores the resort’s blend of Gulf of Thailand natural beauty with high‑end hospitality, and highlights its facilities including private villas, gourmet dining and a world‑class spa. Hotel officials say the award motivates them to continue delivering meaningful stays for guests.
Eight Top Vegetarian Eateries Highlight Muang Thong Thani Food Festival
Nonthaburi’s Muang Thong Thani venue is hosting its 26th annual Vegetarian Food Festival, running until October 18, 2026. Nearly a hundred stalls serve over 300 vegetarian dishes, with eight standout eateries highlighted for visitors. The festival also includes merit‑making activities such as Guanyin worship, attracting both food lovers and spirituality enthusiasts.
Marine Department Promotes Koh Man Nai's Unique Sea Parting
The Marine Department is promoting Koh Man Nai in Rayong as a hidden paradise featuring the longest sea‑parting sandbar in the Eastern Gulf. Visitors can explore the island’s turtle conservation centre, rare migratory bird habitat, and vibrant coral reefs suitable for snorkeling and diving. The best time to visit is from October to May, especially February to April when seas are calm and clear.
TAT Promotes High-Value Tourism at CNN Global Perspectives Event
Inaugural Asia edition held alongside IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings gives TAT a global platform for wellness, Visitor Economy and Thai-ness
Phuket Marriott Resort Launches Festive Christmas and New Year Programme
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach is inviting travellers to spend the festive season at the resort, with holiday dining and seasonal experiences on offer. Set along Tri-Trang Beach, the resort says its setting offers families, couples and friends a tropical place to gather for Christmas and the New Year in Phuket. The programme … The story Celebrate the magic of Christmas and New Year at Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach as seen on Thaiger News.