India and the Southeast Asia region share a long history of cultural and commercial relations. The classical Sanskrit and Pali texts from India carry references of the region using various names such as Kathakosha, Suvarnabhumi (the land of god) or Suvarnadvipa (the golden island).
Thailand is one of the favourite international tourist destinations for Indians. Thailand is attractive to such tourists because it is inexpensive, and its landscape is dotted with many scenic and romantic locations. Indian leisure travellers generally go shopping and sightseeing in Bangkok and Pattaya with an increasing number also heading to Phuket, Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Chiang Rai, Krabi, Ayutthaya and Ko Chang (Trat). Recently, it has been observed that the number of Indian film-makers, MICE delegates, wedding parties and honeymooners have increased significantly.
The Amazing Thailand Festival organized by the Royal Thai Consulate-General,Kolkata in association with Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), New Delhi Office, from12 – 14May, 2023 was inaugurated today at theSouth City Mall, Kolkata by H.E. Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador of Thailand to India,in the presence ofMs. Acharapan Yavaprapas, Consul-General of Thailand in Kolkata and Ms. Siriges-a-nong Trirattanasongpol, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), New Delhi Office along with a host of dignitaries and media. The three-day celebration will highlight the beautiful blend of Five Fs for which Thailand is famous for – Food, Films, Fight (martial arts), Festival & Fashion.India and the Southeast Asia region share a long history of cultural and commercial relations. The classical Sanskrit and Pali texts from India carry references of the region using various names such as Kathakosha, Suvarnabhumi (the land of god) or Suvarnadvipa (the golden island).
“This festival provides a great opportunity for our friends in Kolkata and West Bengal to have a glimpse of the essence of Thailand today. You will enjoy having first-hand experiences through the activities and workshops we have to offer. I am confident that you will learn more about our traditions and ways of life which you may surprisingly find very similar to those of India. It is my great hope that, through this festival, our relations will be even closer, and eventually paving the way to an everlasting friendship between Thailand and India”, said H.E. Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador of Thailand.
“The main purpose of the Amazing Thailand Festival is to offer a more meaningful experiences of the various features of Thailand that can enrich many aspects of your life, whether it be physical health, mental wellness, or spiritual fulfillment. We are excited to bring Thai Festival back to Kolkata for the first time in 3 years since the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only that it is back, but it comes back bigger than ever. Further, for the first time in Kolkata, people will get a feel of Muay Thai LIVE and enjoy extensive array of workshops including cooking class, massage and handicraft. Moreover, 5 luxury hotels in Kolkata; namely, JW Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, The Oberoi Grand, The Park, and The Westin Rajarhat are also participating in this Festival by organizing Thai Food Week at their own establishments during the same time period. Specially curated Thai menus such as steamed Bekti, stir-fried soft shell crab, lamb in Panaeng curry, and mango with sticky rice are being made available during this Thai Food Week”, commented Ms. Acharapan Yavaprapas, Consul-General of Thailand in Kolkata.
“The festival is aimed to attract travellers including millennials from Kolkata and the surrounding areas, including tourists, foodies, culture enthusiasts to experience this extravaganza festival in Kolkata and TAT’s partners including Air Asia, Just Holidays, Gainwell Leisure Holidays, Neptune Tours & Travels, Unique Air Travels, Aaryan Leisure Holidays, Spencer’s and South City Mall. Along with fight, food and destination, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is also promoting Thai festivals like Songkran, the Thai New Year that mostly coincides with Bengali New Year and Loi Krathong, a festival similar to Indian Diwali including many new destinations like Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta, Khao Yai, Koh Tao, and Koh Kradan”, said Ms. Siriges-a-nong Trirattanasongpol, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi office.
