- Photo: The Nation/ANN
BANGKOK: Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital and a Unesco World Heritage Site, is hosting a spine-chilling horror festival to boost tourism.
The five-day “Ayutthaya Horror Festival”, which wraps up on Monday (Oct 14), sees Wat Worachettharam temple transformed into a spooky venue, where visitors get to experience terror with a backdrop of the ancient architecture.
The festival showcases Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, featuring stories of beliefs, ancestors and traditional practices.
Through the “Charm of Thailand” initiative, the event highlights the unique experiences that Thailand has to offer, including five “must-do” activities.
Meanwhile, at the fest, eight captivating activities await visitors:
Auspicious Amulets: Explore a space dedicated to prosperity, charms, and jewellery
Eats: Indulge in delicious street food and speciality dishes, including the "Talisman Meatballs"
Prayer: Seek blessings and good fortune at the prayer area.
Good Deeds: Make donations to earn merit
Horoscope: Consult a famous fortune teller
Fun: Enjoy traditional temple activities and games
Scary: Experience intense horror at the Mae Nak Temple Court, watch a ghost movie, and participate in a chilling ghost game
Dancing: Have fun and appreciate Thai cultural performances
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) believes that such events offer unforgettable experiences and word-of-mouth buzz, enhancing Ayutthaya’s legendary status.
The festival aims to promote night-time tourism, encourage longer stays and generate economic value for both local and regional businesses.
Travellers that fall under the “faith and belief” category are a particularly promising target market as they are known for their longer travel durations and higher spending power.
This festival is expected to provide a significant boost to entrepreneurs in the Central region before the start of this year’s high season.
Admission is free and visitors can register to receive an auspicious thread from Luang Pu Sila Sirichanto at Wat Phra That Muen Hin.
Additionally, participants who dress up as ghosts will receive free rides at the festival. - The Nation/ANN
