Thailand Expands Diwali Festival to Three Major Cities

Thailand Expands Diwali Festival to Three Major Cities

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is expanding the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2026 to Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket from November 3 to 29. Celebrating India's Festival of Lights, the event will feature traditional ceremonies, cultural performances, music, Indian cuisine, and shopping promotions to attract visitors and boost tourism spending.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool announced the festival on October 30, alongside representatives from the Indian Embassy, Indian community organizations, and public and private partners. This marks the fifth consecutive year TAT has supported the celebration, which also promotes cultural ties between Thailand and India ahead of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.

Bangkok's festivities will take place at Central Bang Rak, ICONSIAM, the Phahurat–Ong Ang Canal district, and EmQuartier. On November 8, activities will include traditional lamp-lighting ceremonies, Bollywood performances, cultural displays, and fireworks over the Chao Phraya River. Pattaya will host beachfront celebrations and festive markets, while Phuket will offer an Indian food festival at Central Patong.

The festival also helps promote Thailand as a leading destination for international events. According to TAT, more than 1.91 million Indian tourists visited Thailand between January 1 and October 29, spending an average of 41,009 baht per trip and staying approximately six days. The agency hopes to welcome at least 2.5 million Indian visitors by the end of 2026.

Source: NBT World