More than 13,000 tourists from Malaysia and Singapore crossed into Thailand via the Sadao border checkpoint in a single day as Songkran celebrations began, officials said. The Sadao checkpoint in Samnak Kham subdistrict recorded heavy traffic from early morning on 11 April, with tour buses and private vehicles entering in large numbers, creating congestion at the crossing point. On 10 April alone, about 13,000 visitors crossed, with authorities expecting the figure to rise to around 15,000 on 11 April, reflecting strong cross-border travel demand during the holiday period.
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The surge is driven by Songkran festivities in Thailand, particularly in Dan Nok, where celebrations are being held from 10 to 14 April. The influx resulted in long traffic queues stretching up to 4 to 5 kilometres into Malaysia. Most visitors are expected to stay in Sadao district before travelling onward to Hat Yai and Muang Songkhla to visit well-known tourist attractions.
Immigration police at the Sadao checkpoint said additional officers have been deployed to manage the increased volume of travellers and ensure smooth passport checks and processing and maintain flow. Samnak Kham mayor Satit Liewwattanachotinan said this year’s festival aims to boost local tourism and revive the local economy following recent flooding that affected several areas. Sitthiphong Sitthiphatprapa, president of the Hat Yai-Songkhla Hotel Association, said hotel bookings have reached 70% in Hat Yai and 80% in Samnak Kham, with an additional 20% expected from walk-in guests during the period from 10 to 14 April.
Khaosod reported that he estimated that the festival could generate 250 to 300 million baht in tourism revenue. Authorities expect tens of thousands of tourists throughout the Songkran period as cross-border travel continues to increase throughout the Songkran period.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 12 Apr 2026
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