Songkran 2026 Expected To Generate Over 30.35 Bln Baht

By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock

BANGKOK, April 14 (Bernama) -- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects the Songkran Festival 2026 to generate more than 30.35 billion baht (RM3.74 billion) in tourism revenue, reflecting strong travel demand during the festive period.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said nationwide tourism activity has exceeded expectations across all regions during the April 11–15 period.

She said the projected revenue represents a six per cent year-on-year increase, underscoring sustained confidence among both domestic and international travellers while reinforcing Songkran’s growing stature as a world-class cultural event.

“The strong performance of Songkran 2026 highlights the global appeal of Thailand’s cultural charm and reflects close collaboration between the government, private sector and local communities in elevating the festival to an international level,” she said in a statement published on TAT’s official website on Tuesday.

During the period, Thapanee said international arrivals are projected at about 500,000 visitors, up four per cent year-on-year and generating approximately 8.1 billion baht in revenue.

She said domestic tourism is expected to reach 5.96 million trips, a seven per cent increase, contributing around 22.25 billion baht.

“Combined, these figures are projected to generate more than 30.35 billion baht in tourism revenue, marking a six per cent increase compared with the same period last year,” she added.

In Bangkok, major celebration areas such as Silom Road, Siam Square and Khao San Road recorded consistently high attendance.

She added that TAT’s flagship Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benjakitti Park attracted 108,640 visitors between April 11 and 13, including 56,368 Thais and 52,272 international visitors, generating an estimated economic impact of 283.68 million baht.

“TAT affirms that Songkran remains a key driver of Thailand’s tourism economy, supporting revenue generation, regional distribution and the country’s global reputation for high-quality cultural experiences,” she said.

Although the nationwide peak ends on April 15, celebrations in selected destinations will continue beyond the official period, helping to sustain travel momentum and extend the festival’s overall impact.

Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year observed from April 13 to 15, is marked by family reunions, paying respect to elders and ancestors, and the cleansing of Buddha images.

The UNESCO-recognised festival is also a key highlight of Thailand’s tourism calendar, attracting visitors from around the world to take part in vibrant water-splashing celebrations that showcase the country’s rich culture and heritage.

-- BERNAMA