Pattaya – A recent viral video claiming that nearly 100 Indian tourists were sleeping on and trashing Pattaya Beach has been debunked by officials and members of local Indian associations.
The video, which was widely shared on Thai media and some foreign media, appeared to show dozens of people sleeping or resting on Pattaya Beach. However, it’s not clear when it was shot, such as if it was during a major festival like New Years or Fireworks when many people do stay on the beach, and there was no clear evidence of the nationality of the people present. TPN media briefly did a prior article on the video but removed it to confirm further details with local Indian community associations investigating the incident.
The online world had strongly criticized over 100 foreign tourists, for seemingly taking over Pattaya Beach, drinking alcohol, and leaving trash. Mr. Boon-anan Pattanasin, President of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, urged an inspection to address the issue and maintain a good image for Pattaya City’s tourism.
On February 7th, 2025, Mr. Poramese Ngampiches, the mayor of Pattaya City, clarified that Pattaya City welcomes tourists to use Pattaya Beach, a public area for various activities. While using the beach for sleeping or other activities is not technically illegal, and there is no closure time of the beach, activities must be conducted appropriately. City officials emphasized cleanliness and avoiding disturbances to nearby tourists.
The mayor mentioned discussions with the local Indian Associations to inform travel companies and tour groups of proper behavior, enhancing the image of Indian tourists and fostering good relationships with Pattaya residents.
Dr. Deo Kumar Singh, President of the Chonburi Indian Association, revealed to the media that the individuals sleeping on Pattaya Beach were not Indian and certainly not tourists. They appeared to be migrant workers from nearby countries using the beach as a temporary camp while transporting workers, though the specific country could not be confirmed. Mr. Singh stated that the investigation revealed that the group camped overnight and went to Bangkok the next morning. They were not, however, Indian tourists.
As Mr. Singh explained, most Indian tourists traveling to Thailand buy tour packages with specified round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations, with everything arranged by local travel agencies. However, despite confidence in the people in the video not being Indian tourists, the Chonburi Indian Association plans to collaborate with the government to educate Indian tourists on local rules and conduct beach cleanup activities to improve Pattaya’s image.
An unidentified Pattaya beach umbrella and bed entrepreneur stated to the media that in years of operation, he had never seen Indian tourists camp overnight on Pattaya Beach. They typically visit to walk, enjoy the view, and take pictures, then return to their accommodations. He believes the released images were inappropriate and urged authorities to inspect the area for the country’s good image.
TPN media notes that Pattaya Beach has considered closing times before like some western beaches but so far had decided not to move forward with this proposal.
