Travel Conditions Improve in Southern Thailand: Phuket, Krabi and Surat Thani Now Fully Operational, Get the Details Here

Published on December 9, 2025

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has provided another progress report on the most recently flood-affected southern regions. While the initial disruption created havoc on travel and day-to-day activities, TAT has indicated that most travel destinations are back to normal. The previously affected areas continue to improve, with travel restrictions to these areas having been lifted.

TAT has, and continues to, work with the local authorities, embassies, and tourism industry stakeholders to ensure that affected travelers receive the support and assistance they require. TAT has also been focused on assisting Support staff with confirmed updates on the sequestration of affected areas. In the absence of administrative restrictions, TAT continues to provide travelers with ongoing updates on the impact of severe weather on travel.

Temporary Fine Exemptions for Affected Foreign Nationals

To assist foreign nationals who found themselves stranded due to flooding, the Immigration Bureau has provided a temporary exemption for overstay fines. This exemption applies to foreign visitors whose stays expired between November 20 and December 31, 2025, in the eight southern provinces of Thailand. The affected provinces include Songkhla, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Trang, Satun, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.

Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of this exemption, ensuring they are not penalised for circumstances beyond their control. TAT‘s collaboration with the Immigration Bureau highlights Thailand’s commitment to supporting tourists during this difficult time.

Tourist Destinations Fully Accessible, Some Sites Under Maintenance

Most of Southern Thailand’s popular tourist destinations have returned to normalcy. Travel to areas like Phuket, Phang-nga, Krabi, Surat Thani (including Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao), and Chumphon is now fully operational. Visitors to these regions can expect to find attractions, transport services, and airports all functioning as usual.

Despite the overall recovery, some locations remain temporarily closed for routine annual closures or essential restoration works. These sites may require additional time to fully reopen and return to their previous status. Tourists planning to visit these areas are advised to check with the Tourism Authority of Thailand or local offices for updates before finalising their travel plans.

Recovery Efforts Continue in Key Areas

While most destinations in the southern provinces are accessible, a few regions are still undergoing recovery. The most notable improvements can be seen in the Songkhla province, specifically in Hat Yai, where accessibility has largely returned to normal. Travel in and out of the area is stable, and hotels such as The Signature Hotel Airport, PS Sriphu Hotel, River Hotel Hatyai, and U Hatyai Hotel have resumed operations.

For the latest updates on accommodations, travellers are encouraged to visit the Hatyai Songkhla Hotels Association Facebook page, where hotels in Hat Yai and Songkhla city update their operational status in real-time.

In Narathiwat, Yala, and Pattani, recovery efforts are progressing. While these provinces are still in the midst of restoration, key districts are gradually reopening, and essential services, including transportation, are stabilising. However, a few attractions remain temporarily closed as the authorities focus on necessary repairs and restoration.

Travel Impact: Transportation Updates for Tourists

Tourists planning to visit the region are advised to keep a close eye on transportation schedules, as some services may continue to be affected by weather conditions. Airports in Southern Thailand, including those serving popular destinations like Phuket and Krabi, have returned to full operational status, with regular domestic and international flights running as scheduled.

However, travellers should note that occasional weather disruptions could still impact flight schedules. TAT recommends that visitors reconfirm their flight status with airlines or airports before heading to the terminals to avoid any last-minute delays or cancellations.

For those travelling by train, the Southern Line operations of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) are running normally. Major long-distance routes, such as the services to Hat Yai Junction and Padang Besar, are operational. The SRT reports that full restoration of the services is expected by Sunday, December 14, with only a few local routes still undergoing repair work, causing minor adjustments.

Marine Transport: Confirm Ferry Schedules Due to Weather

Marine transport, including ferry services to the popular islands of Ko Samui, Ko Tao, and Ko Pha-ngan, may experience schedule changes due to ongoing weather conditions. Travelers planning to take ferries or boats to these islands should confirm ferry timings directly with the transport operators to avoid any disruption to their plans.

TAT advises all visitors to be vigilant of changes in transportation schedules and to stay updated on weather conditions. As marine transport remains subject to weather-related fluctuations, reconfirming departure times is essential for ensuring smooth travel.

What Travellers Need to Know: Essential Tips for the Coming Weeks

Although conditions are rapidly improving in most southern regions of Thailand, the effects of the flood are still being felt in some areas. Here are a few essential tips for travellers planning to visit:

1. Check for Service Updates: Always confirm the operational status of tourist attractions, hotels, and transportation services before arriving at your destination.
2. Stay Informed About Weather Conditions: Tropical storms and seasonal weather disruptions can cause sudden changes to travel schedules. It’s vital to follow official channels like the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the latest updates.
3. Reconfirm Flights and Transfers: With occasional disruptions to air and marine transport, travellers should reconfirm flight and ferry schedules in advance to avoid potential delays.
4. Support Local Tourism Recovery: As many southern provinces are recovering, visitors are encouraged to support local businesses and tourism partners by booking their stays and experiences in these areas. Your visit helps accelerate recovery efforts in the region.
5. Follow Local Guidelines and Updates: Some areas may still be under temporary closures or have limited access to certain attractions. It’s crucial to stay updated on these changes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Steady Recovery and Encouraging Travel Conditions in Southern Thailand

Since the last floods, Southern Thailand is slowly but surely returning to normal. Most tourist attractions have opened again. Some areas are still recovering but the airports in Phuket, Krabi, and Ko Samui are fully operational. Tourists are encouraged to visit official websites to get updates and have the most enjoyable and uncomplicated trip to Thailand.