TAT Targets 3.6M Visitors, 32 Billion Baht from Udon Thani Flora Expo
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is leveraging the Udon Thani World Flora Expo (November 2026–March 2027) to attract 3.6 million visitors and generate over 32 billion baht for the Northeast economy. Three promotional campaigns — discounted domestic flights, 70 inter-provincial tour routes, and a singles-focused travel package — aim to extend visitor stays and spread spending across Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Bueng Kan. Early booking data shows strong uptake, with nearly 69,000 discounted flight seats sold in the first weeks.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool revealed that the agency is moving to stimulate tourism for the final quarter of 2026 by using the Udon Thani World Flora Expo, scheduled from November 1, 2026 to March 14, 2027, as a draw for visitors to the Northeast. "We expect about 3.6 million visitors, generating over 32 billion baht in economic circulation," she said. TAT has partnered with tourism operators on three major campaigns: "Fly Thailand, Heal Every Trip" with seven airlines offering a 500-baht domestic flight discount via code FLYTODOM, bookable until December 15, 2026 for travel through January 15, 2027; "Amazing Thailand Travel with Tours" featuring 70 routes connecting Udon Thani with neighboring provinces from October 2026 to January 2027; and "Single Journey 2026" targeting solo travelers on a two-day, one-night Udon Thani–Khon Kaen route. As of November 6, 68,934 discounted seats had been sold and 23,742 passengers had already flown, though some airlines have reached their quota. The tour program has already drawn 3,300 travelers. Additional promotions include a 100-baht discount on Red Lotus Sea boat tours (500 baht per boat, limited to 1,000 boats until February 28, 2027) and support for tour groups of 30 or more staying at least two nights in Udon Thani, Nong Khai, or Bueng Kan with activity funding up to 500 baht per person. In the first nine months of 2026, Udon Thani welcomed over 3.97 million tourists, up 4.5%, generating 11.095 billion baht, a 3.62% increase. Foreign tourist revenue reached 2.658 billion baht, ranking first in the Northeast. TAT expects the Flora Expo to further boost travel and distribute income to local operators.