The Songkran festival is set to significantly boost the country’s tourism revenue, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasting a total income of 24.4 billion baht from the five-day holiday period from April 12-16. This year’s festival is expected to attract 510,000 foreign visitors and account for 4.29 million domestic trips, a 49% increase in revenue compared to the previous year.
According to TAT, a major highlight is the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024, initiated by the government to enhance the festival’s appeal to international tourists through traditional water splashing activities. The event, which is expected to draw more visitors to the country, is supported by a 130 million baht budget allocated to the Tourism and Sports, Interior, and Culture ministries for nationwide celebrations.
Bangkok is anticipated to be a central hub for the festivities, hosting events at Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue from April 11-15 and expected to generate 3.7 billion baht from 635,590 domestic trips.
This year’s Songkran celebrations will extend across 21 days in April, with 20 special parades showcasing Thai culture and scores of celebrities. The extensive celebration period includes Chiang Mai’s early Songkran activities from April 1-15 and concludes with the “Wan Lai” festival in Chon Buri from April 19-21.
As of March 10, Thailand has welcomed 7.4 million foreign tourists this year, generating over 359 billion baht in revenue, with China, Malaysia, and Russia as the top sources of inbound visitors. Visa exemption schemes for tourists from China, India, Taiwan, and Kazakhstan, coupled with the recovery of international flights, are expected to further boost visitor numbers. (NNT)
