CHIANG MAI, March 29 – Total spending of up to Bt1 billion will circulate in this northern province during the annual Songkran festival next month, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
Wisut Buachum, Director of TAT Chiang Mai Office, said the northern province will organise extravagant celebrations highlighting the northern Lanna culture as Thais nationwide welcome the traditional Thai New Year on April 13-16.
He said 85 per cent of Chiang Mai’s hotels have been booked during Songkran, assuring that province will have sufficient accommodation for visitors.
Chaing Mai is one of the most significant and lively provinces to celebrate the century-old tradition. It has planned a series of activities from early next month to April 17.
At least 150,000 tourists from China are expected to join the fun-filled festival in Chiang Mai which will be highlighted by a procession, where Phra Buddha Sihing, the most revered local Buddha image, will be carried around town, as most temples will open their gates to welcome visitors.
Mr Wisut said authorities have prepared facilities to provide convenience and safety to tourists.
The number of visitors to the northern province during this year’s Songkran is expected to be 5-10 per cent higher than last year, he said.
