Thailand’s Holiday Travel Surge: Over 160,000 Travelers Head from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Beyond for New Year Festivities—Everything You Need to Know About This Holiday Rush

Published on December 31, 2025

As the year draws to a close, Thailand’s highways are witnessing an immense surge in travelers making their way home to celebrate the New Year with family and friends. With the nation’s holiday season hitting its peak, the streets and terminals are bustling as travelers flock to various regions. On December 30, Thailand’s Transport Co., Ltd., the state-run bus operator, forecasted that passenger numbers would hit a record high of 160,000 passengers. These travelers are heading to popular destinations across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, marking a high point in the nation’s travel rush for the festive season.

Record-Breaking Numbers at Thai Transport Hubs

In a display of the country’s strong holiday travel tradition, Thailand’s Mo Chit 2 terminal in Bangkok saw massive crowds of people waiting to board buses bound for both northern and northeastern regions of the country. On December 30, the Mo Chit 2 station, which is known as Bangkok’s main bus terminal for intercity travel, was crowded with passengers. The Transport Co., the nation’s bus service provider, reported that it would be running over 8,000 bus trips to meet the surge in demand. The company has also deployed around 1,000 supplemental buses, ensuring that every traveler reaches their destination in time for the celebrations.

Managing the Holiday Travel Surge

With the high demand, the bus service provider remains proactive in addressing the potential for overcrowding. On Monday, December 29, more than 126,000 passengers had already traveled across the country, with 76,000 people departing from Bangkok. This significant rise in travel comes just before the New Year festivities, a time when millions of Thai citizens travel to visit their hometowns and take part in family gatherings and traditional New Year celebrations. The Transport Co. has prepared extensively, ensuring sufficient buses, staff, and safety measures to handle the elevated passenger numbers.

In addition to the surge in domestic travelers, the festive season sees an influx of international tourists visiting popular destinations like Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. The New Year period is one of the busiest times for both domestic and international tourism in Thailand, alongside the Songkran festival in April. For many people, the year-end holiday is a time to reunite with family and explore new destinations within the country.

Tips for Travelers During the Holiday Rush

For those traveling during the peak period, planning ahead and booking transportation in advance is crucial. Here are a few tips to ensure a smoother journey during the New Year travel rush in Thailand:

1. Book Bus Tickets Early: With the surge in demand, purchasing tickets in advance guarantees a seat on the bus, especially for popular routes like Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Bangkok to Pattaya.
2. Arrive Early at Terminals: To avoid delays or last-minute stress, it is recommended that passengers arrive at bus terminals well ahead of their scheduled departure time, as high traffic congestion may lead to longer waiting times.
3. Pack Light and Stay Comfortable: Travel can be long and tiring during the peak season, so pack essentials such as snacks, water, and a good book to stay comfortable throughout the journey.
4. Check Road Conditions and Weather Forecasts: Holiday travel can be affected by weather conditions and road closures. Stay informed by checking weather updates and road closures before heading out.

The Economic Impact of the Holiday Rush

The New Year travel rush is not only a time for reunion and festivities but also plays a significant role in Thailand’s tourism economy. During the peak period, both domestic and international tourism contribute significantly to the revenue generated in various sectors such as hospitality, food services, and transportation. The Thai government expects the number of domestic tourists to rise annually, helping to boost the local economy and support businesses in major cities like Bangkok and Phuket.

The state-run bus services, along with private transportation providers, see record profits during this period, with travelers spending on tickets, accommodation, and meals. This festive rush often leads to full bookings at hotels and resorts across Thailand, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. Local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and tour operators, also experience a significant uptick in sales and services.

Thailand’s Role as a Prime Destination for Holiday Tourism

As one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia, Thailand continues to be a top destination for both international tourists and domestic travelers, especially during the New Year holiday season. The country’s vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and rich history make it an attractive location for tourists looking to escape to exotic locales for the holidays. From cultural festivals to picturesque beaches, travelers can enjoy an enriching experience during their stay.

With the world recovering from past disruptions, Thailand’s tourism industry is on track for growth, supported by strong domestic travel and increasing international visitor arrivals. The Transport Co. has played a vital role in ensuring that millions of people can travel safely and efficiently during one of the busiest periods of the year.

What’s Next for Thailand’s Travel Industry?

Looking ahead, the focus is on enhancing infrastructure and services to meet the growing demand for domestic and international travel. As more people choose to travel during the festive season, Thailand’s transport systems, including buses, trains, and planes, will continue to evolve to meet the needs of both local and international tourists.

With continuous investment in tourism infrastructure and promotional efforts by the government, Thailand is set to remain a top global tourism destination for years to come. The travel industry, including bus and transport services, will continue to play a pivotal role in driving tourism growth, contributing to the nation’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity.