The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with the Thai–Chinese Friendship Association, launched the Once in a Lifetime Bangkok–Beijing Friendship Caravan on Friday, August 29.

This 16-day journey commemorates 50 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. Beginning on October 10 and concluding on October 25, the caravan will cover over 5,000 kilometers, starting from Sanam Luang in Bangkok and ending at Tiananmen Square in Beijing.

The announcement was led by the former Deputy Prime Minister and president of the Thai–Chinese Friendship Association, Korn Dabbaransi, alongside Yang Xiao Long, Minister-Counsellor of the cultural section of the Chinese Embassy in Thailand and Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the TAT’s governor.

Key Remarks

Kiatphaibool stated, “This journey signifies the lasting friendship between Thailand and China. It aims to bolster cultural and tourism exchanges, celebrating our historical bonds while bridging tourism connections, inviting Thai travelers to explore China’s beauty and encouraging Chinese visitors to embrace Thailand’s warmth and diversity.”

The caravan will consist of 15 BYD Sealion 6DMH vehicles, traversing significant cultural landmarks such as Xishuangbanna, Jinhong, Kunming, and Guiyang—home to the famous Huangguoshu Waterfall.

As they journey through Hunan Province, they will visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park—also known as the “Avatar Mountains”—and proceed to Xi’an to see the Terracotta Army before finally reaching Beijing for the grand 50th-anniversary ceremony.

This initiative is anticipated to gain extensive media coverage, reaching an audience of over a billion, highlighting Thailand’s hospitality and fortifying its bonds with the Chinese tourism sector.