Thailand Confirms Tourism Remains Normal in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Samui, Krabi and Pattaya as Security Measures Apply Near Cambodia Border

Published on December 14, 2025

Thailand’s tourism sector continues to operate smoothly nationwide, with travel activities across the country remaining open, accessible, and largely uninterrupted. Visitors can still enjoy Thailand’s major cities, beach resorts, cultural landmarks, and transport networks as normal. However, enhanced security arrangements have been introduced in limited areas along the Thailand–Cambodia border, prompting authorities to issue updated travel guidance for those planning journeys near these zones.

While the overall travel environment remains stable, heightened security measures are currently in force across selected districts in seven provinces located in eastern and northeastern Thailand. These include Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The measures are precautionary and geographically specific, designed to manage border security while allowing everyday life and tourism in other areas to continue without disruption.

In parts of Chanthaburi, Sa Kaeo, and Trat, martial law has been implemented in certain districts, accompanied by temporary curfews during evening and early morning hours. In Sa Kaeo, curfew restrictions apply nightly from 7:00 pm to 5:00 am starting 10 December 2025, while similar restrictions are in effect in selected districts of Trat from 14 December 2025 until further notice. These measures apply only within designated areas and do not affect the rest of the provinces.

Despite these localized controls, Thailand’s national transport system remains fully operational. Domestic and international flights, long-distance trains, intercity buses, and marine services continue to run on regular schedules. Popular destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya in Chon Buri, and Ayutthaya are welcoming visitors as usual, with no restrictions on travel or tourism-related activities.

Some temporary adjustments have been made to transport services serving the affected border regions. Certain rail services operating toward the Thai–Cambodian frontier have been shortened, with trains now running only between Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station and Aranyaprathet. Services that previously extended to border checkpoints have been suspended until further notice. Passengers planning rail journeys to eastern border areas are advised to check updated schedules before departure.

Bus services in parts of Si Sa Ket have also been modified. The Kantharalak Bus Terminal has been temporarily closed, resulting in revised boarding and drop-off arrangements for routes connecting Bangkok with Ubon Ratchathani, Kantharalak, and Buntharik. Travelers using these routes must now use an alternative intersection designated as a temporary terminal. Long-distance bus services elsewhere in the country remain unaffected.

Road travelers are advised to exercise caution when driving near border districts. Specific routes, including sections leading to Non Din Daeng District in Buri Ram Province, should be avoided, with motorists encouraged to follow alternative roads recommended by local authorities. Clear signage and local guidance are in place to assist travelers in navigating safely around restricted areas.

Several border checkpoints, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and heritage sites located close to the frontier have been temporarily closed as part of the security measures. In Ubon Ratchathani, access points near Nam Yuen and areas within protected forest zones are off-limits. In Surin and Si Sa Ket, multiple border temples, conservation areas, and crossing points remain closed, including sites near Kantharalak and Phu Sing.

Restrictions are also in effect in Buri Ram, where border crossings and park areas near Ban Kruat and Lahan Sai are closed. In Sa Kaeo, key crossings near Aranyaprathet, sections of Rong Kluea Market, and historic sites close to the border are under access control. Chanthaburi and Trat have similarly closed specific checkpoints and border zones, including crossings near Pong Nam Ron, Soi Dao, and coastal frontier areas.

Travelers are strongly advised to avoid restricted zones, checkpoints, and border crossings where entry and exit are suspended. These closures are limited to clearly defined locations, while the majority of each province continues to function normally under local supervision. Hotels, restaurants, attractions, and essential services outside restricted areas remain open.

Visitors planning trips to eastern and northeastern Thailand are encouraged to stay informed through official updates, follow local regulations, and comply with instructions from authorities on the ground. By observing these guidelines, travelers can continue to explore Thailand safely while authorities manage security in designated border areas.