Thailand Faces Tourism Backlash After Destruction of a Statue, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 27, 2025

Recently surfaced footage of the destruction of a Hindu deity statue has led to widespread anger on various social media platforms against Thailand to boycott their tourist destination. This video shown on various platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, is apparently showing a Lord Vishnu statue being damaged by heavy machinery in the region of the Thailand-Cambodia border. The video triggered a phenomenal reaction on social media platforms, especially those belonging to Indian Internet users, as the act has been seen to be an infringement of the sensitivities of their religion.

The Growing Trend of Boycotting Thailand and Pattaya
Following the video’s spread, several social media users began using hashtags like “Boycott Thailand” and “Boycott Pattaya” to call for a cessation of tourism to Thailand. The viral backlash led to multiple posts urging Indian tourists to cancel their trips to Thailand, specifically targeting tourist hotspots like Pattaya, a popular destination among international and Indian visitors.

The online movement paints the demolition of the statue as an affront to Hindu heritage and calls for economic pressure on Thailand. Many users voiced frustration, accusing the Thai government of disrespecting Hindu beliefs. The incident has sparked broader discussions about the role of religion in tourism and the responsibility of governments and businesses to protect sacred sites and religious symbols, especially in areas with diverse religious communities.

As the movement gained traction, tourism-related businesses in Thailand, particularly those dependent on Indian visitors, began to take notice of the growing discontent. While these calls to boycott are largely driven by social media, they have the potential to impact tourism flows, especially from India, which is one of the largest sources of international visitors to Thailand.

Thai Authorities Respond to Backlash
Amid the rising uproar, Thai authorities quickly issued a public statement to clarify the situation. The Thai–Cambodian border press center released an official response, asserting that the actions depicted in the video were not meant to target any religious symbols or beliefs. Thai officials emphasized that the demolition was part of an area management operation and was conducted for security purposes. The authorities expressed regret over the misunderstanding and reassured the public that the incident should not be seen as an act of disrespect toward Hinduism or its religious icons.

The Thai government also highlighted that the statue had been constructed on disputed land, which falls under Thailand’s claimed jurisdiction. The operation, according to officials, was in line with maintaining order and security in the region. However, despite these clarifications, the damage had already been done, and many continued to view the incident as a violation of cultural and religious sensitivity.

Cambodian Response: Cultural Significance of the Statue
Cambodian officials, however, rejected Thailand’s explanation. A spokesperson for the Preah Vihear authorities, which oversees the area, strongly condemned the destruction of the statue, stressing its cultural importance. The statue of Lord Vishnu, located within Cambodian territory, holds great religious and cultural value for both Hindus and Buddhists. Cambodian authorities asserted that the act was a disrespectful move toward the statue, which had long been a revered symbol for multiple religious communities.

The situation escalated tensions between the two nations, which already have a history of territorial disputes along their shared border. The disagreement over the statue’s demolition is seen as another chapter in the ongoing tension between Thailand and Cambodia over contested lands, such as the area surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple.

The Impact of Regional Tensions on International Travel
The incident and subsequent calls for a boycott are a reminder of how regional disputes can quickly spill over into international public reactions, especially in today’s digital age. While no official travel advisories have been issued by either the Thai or Indian governments, the online movement has highlighted the power of social media in shaping travel decisions. The backlash against Thailand could have a ripple effect on the country’s tourism sector, particularly in light of the increasing number of Indian travelers to Thailand in recent years.

India has become one of the largest sources of international visitors to Thailand, and a boycott by Indian tourists could have significant economic implications, particularly for regions like Pattaya, which are popular among Indian holidaymakers. Indian tourists, who account for a substantial portion of Thailand’s overall international visitor numbers, contribute greatly to the country’s tourism revenue, including hotel bookings, flights, and local experiences.

Tourism and Cultural Sensitivity in a Globalized World
The incident underscores the growing need for greater cultural sensitivity in tourism, particularly in countries with diverse religious and cultural populations. With the rise of social media, incidents that would have previously remained local can now become global issues within hours. The backlash against Thailand highlights the delicate balance tourism boards and governments must strike when managing cultural sites and the expectations of international visitors.

For tourists, travel is not just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the culture and respecting the local customs and traditions. As tourism grows globally, it’s important for countries to be mindful of how they manage sacred or culturally significant sites. In this case, the demolition of the statue has brought to light the importance of preserving cultural heritage and maintaining respectful relationships with religious communities.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tourism Relations

In the short term, the incident may deter some Indian tourists from visiting Thailand, especially those who view the demolition as a deliberate attack on their heritage. However, with diplomacy and outreach, Thailand has the opportunity to repair its relationship with India’s tourism market and rebuild trust. The incident serves as a reminder of how tourism and politics can intertwine, shaping perceptions and travel decisions across borders.