As the year-end travel season begins, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites everyone with remaining holiday days, as well as those planning to gather friends, loved ones and family to embark on new adventures, to pack your bags and explore destinations in Thailand that can be enjoyed all year round. TAT has curated a list of must-visit attractions for this festive season, which marks the peak of Thailand’s travel calendar. There are countless hidden gems waiting for travel enthusiasts to broaden their travel experience.
To inspire travellers, TAT has curated comprehensive information on recommended destinations and activities across the five regions of the country, guaranteeing a new 360-degree travel experience under the concept titled “5 Must-Do’s in Thailand”. This initiative allows everyone to engage in activities and enjoy the diverse lifestyles that local communities offer, including:
- Must-Taste: Savour signature dishes you simply must try.
- Must-Try: Dive into thrilling activities and adventures.
- Must-Buy: Shop for unique artistic items.
- Must-Seek: Discover breathtaking views and hidden scenic spots.
- Must-See: Immerse yourself in the lifestyle of local communities.
If you are a travel enthusiast, these experiences are a must-add to your checklist because they guarantee absolute joy. Get ready to be energised this year-end and embark on unforgettable travel adventures to these destinations and activities recommended by TAT:
Northern Thailand
- Nakhon Sawan 7th Lantern Festival: “Light of Blessing”Experience the grandeur of illuminated sculpted lanterns at “The 7th Lantern Sculpture Festival” under the concept “Light of Blessing”. Marvel at the spectacular “Nakornsawan Lantern Festival”, where you will enjoy sculpted lanterns combining art, lights, colours, music and nature into breathtaking displays. Key highlights include Three Worlds Lanterns, lantern contests, a tree of desire, and a tunnel of light, colour and sound. Available from 21 December 2024 until 1 January 2025, 17:30 – 22:00 hrs, at Utthayan Sawan, Nakhon Sawan.
- Balloon Festival 2024Enjoy live music amidst scenic mountain views, savour delicious dishes from over 100 food vendors, and take part in exclusive giveaways from TAT, where lucky visitors may win a free hot-air balloon ride. Available from 20–22 December 2024, 16:00–22:00 hrs, at Rai Rim Khao, Lan Sak District, Uthai Thani.
- Chiang Rai Flower and Art Festival 2024: “The Magical Garden”This festival blends a unique flower garden with technology, creating a magical world of flowers presented in four thematic zones:
- Magic Crystal
- Magic Spells
- Enchanted Flowers
- Mythical Creatures
Marvel at dazzling light and sound shows every night, enjoy creative youth performances in the “Chiang Rai Talent” exhibition, and savour local delicacies at the Food Truck Zone by the Kok River. Immerse yourself in authentic Lanna culture and over 17 ethnic cultural displays while shopping for handcrafted products and rare floral species. Available from 16 December 2024 until 5 January 2025, at the Garden of Reeds (Suan Mai Ngarm Rim Kok), Chiang Rai Provincial Administrative Organisation, Rim Kok Sub-District, Muang District, Chiang Rai.
- Winter at Khao Kho, PhetchabunKhao Kho offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a winter escape. Must-visit viewpoints include:
- Khao Kho Sea of Mist: Located above the Rattanai Reservoir, this accessible spot offers stunning views of mist-laden hills.
- Itti Base Viewpoint: The highest viewpoint in Khao Kho, offering expansive scenic views.
- Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint: Ideal for panoramic vistas of rolling hills.
- Khao Takhian Ngo Viewpoint: Known for its 360-degree views of merging mists.
- Pha Sorn Kaew Viewpoint: Famous for its mountain ranges and serene ambiance.
No trip to Northern Thailand is complete without sampling its gastronomic delights. Savour local culinary gems such as Yum Khai Nam Rae from Lampang, Long-Lin Durian from Uttaradit, Hung Lay Longan Curry from Lamphun, and Makwaen Fried Chicken from Nan. Take home unique handicrafts such as silverware from Chiang Mai and Nan, flowing water pattern textiles from Nan, or Yok Dok cotton woven fabrics from Lamphun.
Central Thailand
Be mesmerised by the Nasatta Light Festival - Winter Illumination 2025, themed “Heroines in Thai Literature and the Flora in Thai Folklore”. This dazzling light festival brings to life marvellous visual narratives crafted from the imagination of designers and the dedication of engineers. Tales and legends unique to Thai culture transform the forest at Nasatta Park into a breathtaking visual display featuring millions of lights, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Available at Nasatta Park, Bang Phae District, Ratchaburi Province, from 21st November until 27th April 2025 (open Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays).
Celebrate the New Year and usher in the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025 with exciting activities and performances, including mini-concerts by famous artists at the Bangkok Countdown 2025, hosted across three key locations: Nagaraphirom Park, ICON Siam, and Central World on 31st December 2024.
Enjoy the grand light-and-sound show at the Yor Yos Ying Fah Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair 2024, commemorating the 33rd anniversary of Ayutthaya Historical Park’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This event runs from 13th until 22nd December 2024 at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.
Experience the Special Sightseeing Train (Floating Train), giving the impression of gliding over water. The route runs between Bangkok and Pasak Chonlasit Dam every Saturday and Sunday until January 2025. Enjoy the cool breeze as you travel across the Pasak Chonlasit Dam in Lopburi Province. Tickets are available at all stations nationwide or via the D-Ticket system. For inquiries, call the 24-hour hotline at 1960.
Visit the Winter Festival at Mrigadayavan Palace, marking the 100th anniversary of this iconic palace. Enjoy live music every Saturday afternoon in December 2024 and shop for unique items from the Mrigadayavan Palace’s store, with proceeds supporting the palace’s preservation and restoration. Available at Sewakamat Club, Mrigadayavan Palace, Cha-Am District, Phetchaburi, every Saturday throughout December.
Food lovers! Don’t miss the street food on Yaowarat Road and Banthat Thong Road in Bangkok. Savour grilled river prawns from Ayutthaya, “Pla Chon Mae La” (snakehead fish) from Sing Buri, fermented shrimp paste with fried mackerel and samphire leaves from Samut Songkhram, and traditional chilled rice from Phetchaburi. Before heading home, shop for Thai textiles such as Khomapastr fabric from Prachuap Khiri Khan, Tai-Yuan woven fabric from Ratchaburi, gold handicrafts from Phetchaburi, Black Spinel from Kanchanaburi, or Don Kai Dee Benjarong ceramics from Samut Sakhon.
Eastern Thailand
Another must-see event is the 5th Rhythm of Life, featuring a symphony performance by Kasetsart Winds, a traditional Khon dance by cadets from Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, and a special concert by renowned singer Gun Napat. Savour delicious food from over 100 local vendors and food trucks, along with family-friendly activities. Don’t forget to wear vintage outfits and dance amidst giant floral decorations. Available from 5th–8th December 2024 at the Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, Nakhon Nayok.
Follow in the footsteps of King Rama V at the 17th Chulalongkorn Memorial 2024, held annually in December to honour King Rama V’s grace towards the people of Trat and Koh Chang. King Chulalongkorn visited Trat and Koh Chang over 17 times to ensure peace and order on the eastern seaboard as a bordering city. The event includes sacred waterfall ceremonies at Than Mayom Waterfall, a procession of sacred water to the pier and onto government ships, and a maritime procession from Salak Khok Bay. The event culminates in a ritual honouring the late King Rama V. Held from 26th–27th December 2024 at Wat Watchakam Kotchataweep, Koh Chang, Trat.
Welcome the New Year with joy at Pattaya Countdown 2025, themed “The Fantastic Beach”. Pattaya Beach will be transformed into a hub of entertainment featuring marvellous light and sound productions and activities. The three-day event concludes on 31st December 2024 at Central Pattaya Beach.
In Rayong, reminisce at the 18th Phum Buri Sri Rayong Festival, featuring traditional Rayong cuisine, student performances, local exhibitions, and a dialect-speaking competition at Yomjinda Road, Mueang District. Explore the eastern region’s culinary delights, such as fresh seafood from Chonburi and Rayong, “Kaeng Som Phak Krachap” from Rayong, “Pla Yam Sawat” from Trat, and durians from Chanthaburi. Shop for unique processed seafood from Chonburi, herbal products from Abhaibhubejhr Herbs in Prachinburi, Chanthaburi gemstones, Bang Bo dried fish from Samut Prakan, and second-hand treasures at Rong Kluea Market in Sa Kaeo.
Northeastern Thailand
Delve into the fascinating world of geology and the prehistoric geography of Isan before the dawn of humanity with the “Palaeontological Tourism Route” in Kalasin Province. Key attractions include:
- Pha Daeng Phu Singh and Phu Kum Khao (Sirindhorn Museum) in Sahatsakhan District
- Phu Faek Forest Park in Na Khu District
- Phu Nam Chan Forest Park in Kuchinarai District, home to ancient fish fossils
- Phu Noi Dinosaur Fossil Site in Kam Muaeng District
These sites reveal how the Isan region was once submerged under the sea before rising to form mountains and volcanoes, with some areas subsiding into fertile river valleys and lakes. They offer a unique blend of fun and education, making them must-visit destinations for both adventure and learning.
Pha Mo I Daeng is a scenic viewpoint along the route to Khao Phra Wihan. Spanning approximately 300 metres, this cliff offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cambodia's lowlands. At sunset, visitors can witness flocks of bats, adding a magical touch to the experience. Nearby, there are nature trails and an ancient twin stupa with a cubic base and rounded top, made from red sandstone. The hollow interior was likely used for storing sacred items, symbolising abundance. This site is located within Khao Phra Wihan National Park, in Sao Thong Chai Subdistrict, Kantharalak District, Si Sa Ket Province.
Pha Taem National Park lies along the border of Laos, separated by the majestic Mekong River. Witness Thailand's longest prehistoric cliff paintings, fascinating rock formations, and colourful wildflower fields that bloom during the late rainy season and early winter. Pha Taem is also celebrated as one of Thailand's most beautiful sunrise viewpoints. Visitors can stay in the park’s accommodations or camp at various sites, including the park’s headquarters near Pha Taem, Soi Sawan Waterfall, and Dong Na Tham Forest. The main visitor centre is situated on the sandstone plateau of Phu Pha Kham, where a welfare shop and a café are also available. For more information, call 0 4525 2581.
Tracing the Path of Khmer Faith and Civilisation: Explore the ancient Khmer civilisation through a tour of stone temples across Southern Isan, a region rich with historical charm and heritage. This area, encompassing the provinces of Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani, is home to remarkable Khmer relics portrayed in stone temples and religious sites. Key highlights include:
- Phimai Historical Park in Nakhon Ratchasima
- Phanom Rung Historical Park and Muang Tam Sanctuary in Buriram
- Ta Muen Temple Complex and Sikhoraphum Sanctuary in Surin
Phra That Si Song Rak: Located on the banks of the Man River in Dan Sai District, Loei Province, this stupa symbolises mutual assistance and friendship between the kingdoms of Ayutthaya (during the reign of King Maha Chakkraphat) and Lan Xang (modern-day Vientiane, Laos). Every year, on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, locals hold a grand celebration in honour of the stupa, presenting Ton Phueng (wax trees) as part of a sacred annual tradition.
Phra That Phanom: Located at Wat Phra That Phanom Woramahawihan in That Phanom District, Nakhon Phanom Province, this revered Buddhist stupa represents the enduring prosperity of Buddhism in the region. Visiting Phra That Phanom seven times is believed to grant the title of “Child of the Stupa” and bring great blessings.
While exploring Isan, indulge in local delicacies like Pad Mee Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima), grilled chicken (Buriram, Si Sa Ket, Khon Kaen, Yasothon), Dong Mafai Coffee (Nakhon Ratchasima), and Som Tam (spicy papaya salad). Don’t forget to pick up unique souvenirs such as Khon Kaen’s Mudmee Silk, Chaiyaphum Fabrics, and Thung Kula Rong-Hai Jasmine Rice.
Southern Thailand
Discover the Joy of Travel: Following in the Footsteps of the King
Experience the charm of Narathiwat with a tram tour starting at the Pikun Thong Royal Development Study Centre, a royal initiative, to the Narathiwas Peace Memorial Roundabout. Witness iconic landmarks like the Ku sculptures (Narathiwat’s City Gate), Narathiwat Governor’s Residence, Tha Phraya Sai Dam, and Sino-Portuguese buildings. Available on 21st December 2024 at Pikun Thong Royal Development Study Centre, Muang District, Narathiwat.
Sounds of Earth @ Krabi
Join us for the “Thailand's Forest Festival (Artistic Hearts)”, celebrating nature, art, and culture through sustainable tourism. Enjoy local delicacies and shop for eco-inspired products on 25th January 2025 at Nopparat Thara Beach National Park, Krabi.
TRANG Food FestiWOW: Season of Love
Celebrate Valentine’s month at Trang Food FestiWOW. Indulge in a romantic Tubtiang Garden, designed with fairy-tale zones like Love Garden and Food Paradise. Savour local cuisine such as Flowing Stream Tilapia Fish, Kanom Jeen (Rice Noodles), oysters, and Trang’s iconic grilled pork. Explore souvenir shopping for treasures like Phumriang Silk, Salted Fish, and Juantani Fabrics. The event runs from 12th–16th February 2025 at Tubtiang Garden, Mueang District, Trang.
Pack your bags and prepare for unforgettable travel experiences blending nature, culture, and cuisine. With the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s recommendations, every day is a travel day!
