Loy Krathong festivals across five regions are projected to generate 6.9 billion baht in tourism revenue from 1.9 million domestic trips, with the North expected to attract the highest number of visitors, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that the number of tourists this year is anticipated to grow by 9% compared to last year, while revenue is expected to rise by 12%.
In the northern provinces, an estimated 568,740 domestic trips are projected, marking a 7% increase from the previous year, with expected revenue reaching 2.5 billion baht, up by 9%. The combined central and western regions are forecasted to see 380,440 trips, generating approximately 797 million baht, according to Ms. Thapanee.
The highlight event for Bangkok, the “Amazing Night of Lights: Loy Krathong Festival,” will take place over four days from November 13 to 16. It is projected to help the capital earn 1.37 billion baht from 330,450 local trips, boasting a high occupancy rate of 72%.
The eastern and northeastern regions are expected to attract similar numbers of local trips, with 285,660 and 284,860 respectively, representing year-on-year growth of 19% and 12%, as reported by the TAT.
In terms of revenue, the eastern provinces are forecasted to earn 1.12 billion baht, an increase of 22%, while the Northeast is estimated to generate 582 million baht, slightly surpassing the South, which is projected to achieve the lowest revenue of 561 million baht from 148,850 local trips.
Ms. Thapanee noted that the five most-visited provinces known for their unique Loy Krathong traditions—Sukhothai, Tak, Chiang Mai, Samut Songkhram, and Roi Et—are expected to see a combined total of 330,400 local trips, generating over 1.3 billion baht.
According to the agency, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai are anticipated to lead in trips, with 147,330 and 87,330 respectively. Chiang Mai is expected to fully recover from recent flooding, with average occupancy during this period projected to surge to 87%.
Ms. Thapanee remarked that the cool weather this month has positively influenced tourism sentiment, particularly in the North and Northeast, while Loy Krathong events should encourage travel to other provinces over the weekend.
However, challenges may arise from high household debt levels and the recurring issue of PM2.5 pollution.
