With long periods of Thailand’s History, according to evidences and studies, Sukhothai was the first kingdom of Thailand. At that time, an early Thai script was invented by King Ramkhamhaeng, the great king of Sukhothai, and there also were records about events in the king’s reign. After Sukhothai period, the new kingdoms arose that are Ayuthaya, Thonburi and Rattanakosin which is the present kingdom of Thailand. Each period owns its important Historical events and interesting cultural changes.
In Sukhothai period, King Sri Indraditya founded Sukhothai in 1238 governed by the monarchy system. The glorious era was in the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great and after his death, it came to the fall of Sukhothai Kingdom.
In Ayuthaya Period, King U Thong founded the kingdom in 1350, and the kingdom then became powerful in politics and economy of southeast Asia.
Ayuthaya became stronger by firmly gathering groups of Thai and connecting to foreign countries such as Portugal, France, Netherlands, China, and Japan.
In 1569, Ayuthaya’s glories fell to Burmese, then King Naresuan regained the city’s independence and expanded more territories.
In the era of King Narai was the rise of international relations, but later because of the big war, Ayuthaya Kingdom was destroyed by Burmese troops in 1767.
That was the end of Ayuthaya period.
After the destruction of Ayuthaya period, King Taksin collected his troops to defeat Burmese troops and chose Thonburi as the new capital.
After his death, King Yot Fa (Rama I) founded Chakri dynasty and decided to move the capital to Bangkok, so it was beginning of Rattanakosin period.
King Rama I was the first king of Rattanakosin. In the early period, there was an invasion from Western countries.
The kings at that time solved the problems by trading and making agreements with the Western countries for preserving the independence even the country lost some territories.
In 1932, Thailand had a big change of the country’s government system, from the absolute monarchy system to the present democratic system with the King as the Head of State.
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06 Mar 24
Partner News
News from Team ThailandSawasdee ka, ! Welcome to your March update from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. ...Read more -
02 Jan 24
NEWS
Thailand cuts tax on booze to boost tourismIn a boost for tourism, the Thailand government has approved a tax cut on alcohol ...Read moreThailand cuts tax on booze to boost tourism - News & announcementsIn a boost for tourism, the Thailand government has approved a tax cut on alcohol and for entertainment venues. Taxes on wine will be halved from 10% to 5% while the 10% tax on spirits will be scrapped. Also, the excise tax levied on entertainment venues will be halved to 5%. They are temporary measures which will last until the end of 2024. It is the latest move to boost the night time entertainment industry after opening hours were extended to 4am recently in major tourism areas. Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit said additional spending by tourists will offset any cut in the tax revenues. The government said it reached the amended tourist arrivals target of 29 million in 2023. It is forecasting 34 million tourist arrivals for 2024. -
15 Nov 23
NEWS
Thailand’s sustainable tourism strategy explainedSpeaking on the sidelines at World Travel Market, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot Deputy Governor for International Marketing. ...Read moreThailand’s sustainable tourism strategy explained - News & announcementsSpeaking on the sidelines at World Travel Market, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot Deputy Governor for International Marketing. Europe Africa Middle East and Americas, exclusively speaks about Thailand’s focus on meaningful people-to-people connections. This underpins Thailand tourism’s ‘Meaningful Relationship’ campaign, which encompasses immersion in local communities, food and experiences. “Thailand always begins with the local people and their hospitality. That is why Thais are a very important resource,” he said. Siripakorn also shared the philosophy behind the Responsible Thailand Awards and the implementation of its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs). This awards tourism businesses with a STAR rating for their ‘sustainable approach and management.’ Siripakorn said there are currently more than 250 businesses with a STAR rating. -
13 Nov 23
NEWS
Thailand tourism presents ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing conceptThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently rolled out its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to ...Read moreThailand tourism presents ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept - News & announcementsThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently rolled out its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to tourism industry delegates during World Travel Market 2023. The Amazing Thailand Press Conference was presented by TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, along with fellow TAT executives. Ms. Thapanee said: “The new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ concept is designed to encourage travellers to engage in a meaningful connection with local communities and Thailand.” This encompasses nature, the Thai people and the country itself. “When travellers form a relationship with the people they meet and the place they visit, they will have an opportunity of creating lifelong friends” The concept will be incorporated into TAT’s ongoing promotion of Thailand as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. To this end, TAT has partnered with the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) to promote its sustainable travel messaging to the UK market. During 2023 Ms Thapanee cited a biggert focus on Thai food and cultural activities as a way to increase people-to-people connections. TAT has developed and implemented its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations Development Programme. TAT’s STGs encompass the entire tourism industry in a Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) system. Businesses that comply with goals attain a corresponding number of stars. Currently, there nearly 300 businesses with STAR certifications in Thailand. Meanwhile, TEATA, in collaboration with Tourlink, has developed seven carbon-neutral travel routes for travellers to explore Thailand. Featured destinations include Bangkok, Ratchaburi, Phangnga, Trat, Phetchaburi, and the three Isan provinces of Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Loei. For the UK market, TAT will place a focus on luxury, wellness and responsible travel segments to boost spending and to encourage longer stays in local areas. For 2024, Thailand is targeting over 900,000 UK tourist arrivals. -
07 Nov 23
NEWS
Thailand tourism showcases ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing conceptThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is using the WTM 2023 as a platform to ...Read moreThailand tourism showcases ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept - News & announcementsThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is using the WTM 2023 as a platform to launch its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to a worldwide tourism industry audience. The Amazing Thailand Press Conference was helmed by Minister of Tourism and Sports, H.E. Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, and TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, as well as TAT executives. Ms. Thapanee said:“ The new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ concept is designed to encourage travellers to engage in a meaningful connection with Thailand.” “When travellers form a relationship with the people they meet and the place they visit, they will have an opportunity of creating lifelong friends” The concept will be incorporated into TAT’s ongoing promotion of Thailand as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. TAT has developed and implemented its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations Development Programme. TAT’s STGs encompass the entire tourism industry in a Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) system. Businesses that comply with goals attain a corresponding number of stars. Currently, there are 251 businesses with STAR certifications in Thailand. TAT also held the annual Responsible Thailand Awards. They recognise sustainable Thailand tourism in six categories such as Animal Welfare, Nature, Community-based Tourism and Hotel, Eco Lodge/Eco Hotels. This year, the winners are Mahouts Elephant Foundation, New Heaven Reef Conservation Programme, Kao Thep Pitak Community Restaurant, Devasom Khao Lak Resort, Elephant Hills, and Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary. TAT’s partner, the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) in collaboration with Tourlink, has developed seven carbon-neutral travel routes for travellers to explore Thailand. while helping reduce the impact on the environment. Featured destinations include Bangkok, Ratchaburi, Phangnga, Trat, Phetchaburi, and the three Isan provinces of Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Loei. For the UK market, TAT will place focus on potential segments with higher spending, a tendency to stay longer, and those wanting to explore local areas. These segments include luxury, wellness and responsible travel. From 1 January - 31 October 2023, Thailand recorded over 21.6 million arrivals and generated over THB927 billion. The top five markets are Malaysia, China, South Korea, India and Russia. The UK market contributed 617,017 tourists. -
18 Sep 23
NEWS
Thailand grants tourist visa exemption for Chinese travelersIn a big move to boost Thailand tourism, Chinese tourists will get a visa exemption. ...Read moreThailand grants tourist visa exemption for Chinese travelers - News & announcementsIn a big move to boost Thailand tourism, Chinese tourists will get a visa exemption. It is a temporary measuring kicking off from 25 September 2023 to 29 February 2024. It is also valid for nationals of Kazakhstan. Chinese and Kazakhstani travellers will be given the tourist visa exemption for a stay of up to 30 days. “This stimulus visa scheme forms measures to boost the Thai economy through travel and tourism,” the Ministry of Tourism said. “Ultimately, it will help revive Thai tourism and reach the revenue target set for this year.” During the five-month tourist visa exemption period, Thailand is targeting up to 2.8 million Chinese tourists It forecasts about 130,000 from Kazakhstan. As of 10 September 2023, Thailand has so far welcomed 2.2 million Chinese visitors, the number two source market behind Malaysia. The visa exemption period starts just before the busy Golden Week holidays in China. -
27 Apr 23
Partner News
The Amazing Thailand UK Roadshow Returns Next Month After 3 Year HiatusTourism Thailand is bringing 24 Thai suppliers to meet UK travel agents in May ...Read moreThe Amazing Thailand UK Roadshow Returns Next Month After 3 Year Hiatus - News & announcementsTourism Thailand is bringing 24 Thai suppliers to meet UK travel agents in May The Amazing Thailand Roadshow will return this year, for the first time in three years, visiting Manchester (16th May) and Glasgow (18th May) for two fun and informative evenings. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites frontline agents to be transported to the Land of Smiles as they taste delicious food and drink and meet with a selection of Thai suppliers. 24 suppliers are joining the roadshow from Thailand and between them represent a range of hotels across the Kingdom. From the capital city of Bangkok to the popular islands of Phuket and Koh Samui as well as unsung destinations such as Khao Sok National Park and the island of Koh Samet. The table top sessions allow agents to discover new products and establish new business connections. Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) UK office, Sadudee Sangnil, said: "This is TAT's first UK roadshow since lockdown. The UK market remains key to Thailand's tourism recovery and since Thailand opened its borders, with no travel restrictions, we have seen a sharp return in traveller numbers to 85% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels. We are thrilled 24 suppliers are joining us from Thailand to build business opportunities and we have ensured a range of suppliers, from established brands to brand new openings, to provide variety for agents." One lucky agent, at each event, will win a holiday to Thailand for two including flights with Etihad and accommodation. "We're excited to be partnering with and promoting Etihad Airways on this roadshow who have increased their capacity, doubling their flights to Thailand since 26th March 2023" added Sangnil. Etihad now flys twice daily from Abu Dhabi to Bangkok with connections from London and Manchester. In Manchester, a panel discussion will take place ahead of the evening event, where key tour operator partners including representatives from dnata and Travel Counsellors, will brief the Thai exhibitors on the current market situation in the UK. -
18 Apr 23
Partner News
Thailand April UpdateHappy Songkran Thai New Year Happy Songkran Thai New Year! Traditional Thai ...Read moreThailand April Update - News & announcementsHappy Songkran Thai New Year
Happy Songkran Thai New Year! Traditional Thai new year is a time in which family is honored and seniors are deeply respected. Celebrations span across Thailand and beyond between April 13-15. You can also get a taste of this enchanting festival in the U.S., from Minnesota's Songkran Festival (May 27 & 28), Houston Asian Culture Festival (May 20 & 21), to Thai Festival Chicago (June 10 & 11).
Celebrate Songkran in the U.S. →
Thailand's Festivals & Events in April 2023 April brings lots of exciting events and festivals to Thailand. In addition to its 3-day celebratory events for Songkran Thai New Year, experience many other cultural and religious festivals throughout the month including: 3rd Muang Boran Light Fest 2023, Van Gogh Alive, Isan Creative Festival 2023, Phuket Bike Week 2023, and more. Discover April in Thailand → 'Rolling Loud' Hip-Hop Music Festival in Pattaya The world's top hip-hop music festival will stage its premier concert in Asia at Pattaya's Legend Siam, April 13-15. Headliners for the 3-day festival include Travis Scott, Cardi B, and Chris Brown, along with performances by rap stars Rick Ross, Waka Flocka Flame, and Soulja Boy. View the Lineup & Buy Tickets → 241st Anniversary of Bangkok's Krung Rattanakosin The ministry of culture has announced a series of celebratory events to commemorate the 241st Anniversary of Bangkok's Krung Rattanakosin - founder of the Rattanakosin Kingdom and the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty. The opening ceremony will take place at the National Museum Bangkok and the National Theatre on April 21. Celebrations will continue through April 25, featuring cultural performances, a night museum, a retro-style food market, and a fair selling cultural products from Thailand's 76 provinces and from Bangkok's 50 districts. Learn More About the Anniversary → Visiting Thailand with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide The summer travel season is right around the corner. Whether you're looking to relax, learn more about Thai culture, climb a mountain, explore a cave, fly through the sky on a zipline, or meet some new elephant friends, Thailand truly has something to enthrall everyone in the family. From intricate Buddhist temples that offer a lesson in architecture and history to breathtaking national parks and beaches, Thailand's unique alchemy is one-of-a-kind. Thailand's Family-Friendly Guide → Traveling Solo in Thailand From choosing your own itinerary (and changing it on a whim) to not having to worry about the responsibilities of pleasing a group, solo traveling has lots of perks. TAT compiled a guide to traveling alone in Thailand - including safety tips, destinations to explore, and excursions fit for singles. Check Out the Travel Guide → -
17 Feb 23
Partner News
Amazing Thailand Events and Festivals in February 2023Amazing Thailand Events and Festivals in February 2023 From the ‘Red Lotus ...Read moreAmazing Thailand Events and Festivals in February 2023 - News & announcementsAmazing Thailand Events and Festivals in February 2023
From the ‘Red Lotus Sea’ and Chiang Mai Flower Festival, to the Amazing Muay Thai Festival, Bangkok Design Week, and Concert in the Park #30, there’s plenty going on this month. February is a wonderful time of the year to visit Thailand, with the cooler climate making traveling around even more enjoyable. Flowers and foliage are in bloom in the north of Thailand, popular places such as Phuket and Krabi are as amazing as ever, and there are fantastic festivals and events to experience. Discover February in Thailand →TAT Announces “Amazing Thailand Experience Forum”
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New York and Toronto Offices – in partnership with Air Canada, THAI Smile Airways, and various partners in Thailand – facilitated the ‘Amazing Thailand Experience Forum’ in Bangkok and Khao Lak (Phang-nga) from February 5-15, 2023. The program served as an opportunity for 60 agents to experience luxury travel offerings and build relationships with over 100 luxury Thai suppliers. Read about the ‘Amazing Thailand Experience Forum’ here and find out more about how to become a certified Thailand specialist through the Thai The Knot Specialist program here. Learn More →China Airlines Adds Capacity to Thailand
China Airlines announces the launch of direct flight service from Taipei to Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand’s largest city. The addition of four weekly flights on the Chiang Mai route means China Airlines now offers 27 roundtrip flights to Thailand each week, greatly boosting convenience for business and tourist travel between the two regions. Read the latest news here and explore flights here. Take Me to Thailand →T+L World’s Best Awards Survey Closing for Votes on February 28th
The 2023 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards survey is live now through February 28, 2023 including a number of Thailand tourism partners in the Hotel Brands, Airlines, Destination Spas, Islands, and Cities categories. Cast your votes before the deadline closes by visiting the survey here. Vote for Thailand →TAT Introduced “The Michelin Experience @Isan”
TAT introduced “The MICHELIN Experience @Isan” to promote Thai-Isan food culture, congratulating 33 entries from four representative cities of the Northeast Isan region for being included in The MICHELIN Guide Thailand’s 2023 Bib Gourmand list. “The MICHELIN Experience @Isan” shined a spotlight on Thai-Isan food culture and celebrated the inclusion of the region in the sixth edition of The MICHELIN Guide Thailand. The partnership between TAT and The MICHELIN Guide began in 2017 with the launch of The MICHELIN Guide Bangkok 2018. The success throughout the first five years resulted in the project being extended for another five years from 2022 to 2026 – guaranteeing continued promotion of gastronomy tourism to Thailand. Experience Thai Isan →TAT Strengthens “Visit Thailand Year 2023” Towards a Meaningful Travel Direction
TAT is strengthening the ongoing “Visit Thailand Year: Amazing New Chapters” campaign towards a meaningful travel direction. Underlining the kingdom’s soft power foundations and experience-based tourism, key strategies include elevating supply and sustainable standards, and raising awareness among stakeholders about the importance of being hospitable hosts to all visitors. Explore Meaningful Travel Thailand →Banyan Tree Extends Branch Of Hope To Koh Samui Students
Philanthropy lies close to the roots at luxury hotel group, Banyan Tree. Through the Banyan Tree Global Foundation, the group has sponsored hundreds of causes and projects worldwide. Most recently, Banyan Tree Samui secured funding and helped to reconstruct Wat Santi Wanaram Child Development Centre following devastation from a tropical storm. Read the story here. Read More →A Guide To Thai Spices
Hot spices have been used in recipes and cooking for over 6,000 years and on the heels of International Hot and Spicy Foods Day (January 16), we’re bringing you some fun facts from sizzling Thailand. Thailand has a rich culinary heritage and there are said to be five tastes in Thai cooking: spicy, sweet, sour, salty, and creamy – all combinations and intensity of these flavors can make their way into one dish. Read more here. Let's Get Spicy →A Bridge Not Too Far: Where Creativity Meets Innovation
Deepak Ohri is an author of the book: A Bridge Not Too Far, Where Creativity Meets Innovation. The book was released on January 10th, 2023, and it is already recognized as one of the top manuscripts in the global marketing. Explores how Deepak Ohri’s humble beginnings have fueled his innovative entrepreneurial spirit and have informed his deeply human-centered approach to business and to life. Find Out More → -
10 Jan 23
NEWS
Thailand tourism officials backtrack on vaccination requirementThailand tourism won’t be subject to any Covid restrictions after all. Thailand’s had reinstated the ...Read moreThailand tourism officials backtrack on vaccination requirement - News & announcementsThailand tourism won’t be subject to any Covid restrictions after all. Thailand’s had reinstated the need to be double vaxxed just days ago, ahead of an influx of tourists from China. In a swift U-turn on Monday, this has been dropped. Health ministry advisors have deemed it unnecessary and ‘inconvenient’ for Thailand tourism. “International travellers are not required to show proof of vaccination,” the public health ministry said. This was confirmed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand in a message to trade partners and tourists. -
26 Dec 22
NEWS
Thailand tourism ends 2022 on a highThailand tourism expects to finish the year around 15% up on its arrivals target. It ...Read moreThailand tourism ends 2022 on a high - News & announcementsThailand tourism expects to finish the year around 15% up on its arrivals target. It recently surpassed the 10 million target. Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said it will be around 11.5 million travellers by the year-end. Supasorn predicts a surge of inbound arrivals for the New Year. Thailand tourism revenue should reach about THB1.5 trillion in 2022, The TAT set a target of 20 million for 2023. -
16 Nov 22
NEWS
Teerasil Tapen of Amazing Thailand give updates at WTM22Thailand is expecting 10 million arrivals in 2022. With tourism receipts representing 20% of Thailand's ...Read moreTeerasil Tapen of Amazing Thailand give updates at WTM22 - News & announcementsThailand is expecting 10 million arrivals in 2022. With tourism receipts representing 20% of Thailand's GDP, they are now taking action to diversify and not have to rely on tourism as much.