Post by : Shakul

Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has launched a new initiative to transform Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya into a high-value and sustainable tourism destination. On May 6, 2026, Tourism and Sports Minister Mr. Surasak Panjaroenvorakul chaired an important tourism development meeting at the Krungsri River Hotel in Ayutthaya Province. The meeting focused on finding long-term solutions to increase tourist spending, encourage overnight stays, and improve tourism income distribution to local communities.

The meeting brought together several senior government officials, tourism executives, local administrators, and private business representatives from the tourism sector. Among those attending were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Governor of Ayutthaya Province, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and representatives from tourism development agencies. Discussions centered on creating a stronger tourism model that meets the expectations of modern travelers while protecting the city’s historical and cultural identity.

Minister Surasak explained that Ayutthaya was selected as the first province for this nationwide tourism consultation because of its strong historical importance and tourism potential. As one of Thailand’s most famous World Heritage cities, Ayutthaya attracts millions of visitors every year. However, despite its popularity, the province still faces major tourism challenges that limit economic growth for local businesses and communities.

One of the biggest concerns highlighted during the meeting was the high number of one-day tourists visiting Ayutthaya. Officials revealed that nearly 90 percent of visitors spend only a few hours in the city before returning to Bangkok or other nearby provinces. This results in relatively low tourism spending of around 1,800 to 2,000 baht per person, which is considered far below the city’s true economic potential as an international heritage destination.

To solve this problem, tourism leaders and local business associations proposed several new projects aimed at encouraging visitors to stay overnight and experience Ayutthaya’s attractions for a longer period. One major proposal is the River Night Lighting project, which plans to install solar-powered lighting at 12 important riverside historical sites. The project aims to create a beautiful atmosphere for evening sightseeing and nighttime river cruises that could become a major attraction for both Thai and foreign tourists.

Another important proposal discussed was the development of Global Muay Thai Branding. Tourism officials want to promote the famous Wai Kru Muay Thai ceremony as a world-class cultural event capable of attracting athletes, martial arts enthusiasts, and international visitors from around the globe. Officials believe this project can strengthen Thailand’s cultural soft power and create a unique tourism identity for Ayutthaya.

The meeting also focused heavily on modern tourism technology and inclusive travel development. Plans were introduced to establish a Smart Tourism and Data Center that would analyze tourist behavior and improve tourism planning using accurate data. At the same time, infrastructure improvements and universal design concepts are being considered to better support senior tourists, people with disabilities, and high-income international travelers seeking comfortable and accessible travel experiences.

Local authorities also proposed the creation of a permanent community-managed walking street and night market to increase nighttime activities and create additional income opportunities for local residents. Ayutthaya’s provincial administration is also preparing a long-term master plan that will connect tourism routes from the historical island area to surrounding districts through an electric vehicle transportation system and newly designed riverside piers to improve travel convenience and sustainability.

Minister Surasak concluded the meeting by expressing confidence that all proposed projects can be successfully implemented through cooperation between the government, private sector, and local communities. He stated that Ayutthaya has the potential to become a world-class destination where tourists stay longer, spend more, and repeatedly return in the future. According to the Minister, this new tourism strategy will play an important role in supporting Thailand’s economy while preserving the nation’s cultural heritage in a sustainable way.

#Thailand News #Asia News #tourism #Asia Travel