BANGKOK — The rising popularity of the pygmy hippopotamus “Moo Deng” has prompted the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to organize five itineraries through five regions to visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo. The routes aim to highlight interesting tourist attractions along the way and promote inter-regional tourism.
During the recent long weekend, especially on October 13, 2024, there was a record-breaking number of 14,573 visitors to see the “Moo Deng” at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Bang Phra Subdistrict, Si Racha District, Chonburi Province. This is the highest number of visitors in the zoo’s 46-year history.
Many people drove from other provinces, enduring traffic jams for several hours. On some days, the traffic congestion stretched 3-7 kilometers from the zoo’s entrance. International tourists who flew in from various countries also joined the crowd. Everyone remained determined to queue and wait to see her, despite the zoo limiting viewing sessions to only 5 minutes per group.
Meanwhile, in the nearby community within 250 meters of the zoo, a new business opportunity emerged: car parking services charging 50 baht per vehicle. Tuk-tuks and motorcycles were also available to shuttle visitors to and from the zoo.
Nithee Seeprae, deputy governor for marketing communications at TAT, said that nowadays travelers often plan their own trips and choose routes, sights, accommodations, and restaurants themselves. This leads to a real distribution of revenue to local communities, as tourists can choose where to spend their money.
The TAT, therefore, will focus on marketing and advertising through various channels such as print media, online platforms, and social media. Tourists will also have the opportunity to share their own travel experiences with others. The target groups are especially families and Generation Y (21-37 years old), who are expected to be interested in traveling to Chonburi and the surrounding areas.
This is expected to increase hotel occupancy, restaurant spending, and visits to various attractions in districts such as Si Racha, Bang Saen and Bang Phra by no less than 5-10 percent.
Nithee explained that the itineraries to visit Moo Deng cover five regions across the country:
- Northern region: Singha Park in Chiang Rai, Chae Son National Park in Lampang, Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum and Doi Soi Malai Petrified Wood National Park in Tak.
- Northeastern Region: Khon Kaen Zoo in Khon Kaen, Museum of Natural History in Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo and Khao Yai National Park.
- Central region: Forest Learning Center in Bangkok, Bang Kachao Tourism Community in Samut Prakan and Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachinburi.
- Southern region: Ratchaprapha Dam in Surat Thani, Sirinart Rajini Mangrove Ecosystem Learning Center in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Sirindhorn International Environmental Park in Phetchaburi.
- Eastern Region: Ban Nam Chiao Community-Based Tourism in Trat, Namtok Phlio National Park in Chanthaburi and Space Inspirium in Chonburi.
In addition to the adorable Moo Deng, there are other equally cute animals at Khao Kheow Open Zoo. The zoo’s attractions include the penguin parade, feeding tigers and lions and elephants swim in a specially designed large pool.
Besides Moo Deng, TAT is also capitalizing on the popularity of the horror film “Death Whisperer 2,” which has just released its second installment in theaters and has already grossed over 300 million baht ($9 million).
Nithee Seeprae, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications at TAT, stated that this year, the Thai film industry has shown remarkable growth and prominence. Many Thai films have achieved success and won global awards, bringing pride to the industry. This has also motivated people to travel to film locations. TAT therefore sees an opportunity to implement a MOVIE Marketing strategy.
The first “Death Whisperer” film grossed 500 million baht ($15 million) and was screened in over 20 countries across Asia, ASEAN, and CIS regions. The return of “Death Whisperer 2” is now linked to tourism, showcasing Uttaradit province as an attractive destination and the film’s location.
TAT is promoting activities related to forest and environmental conservation, as well as donating necessary items to rural schools. This is coupled with the presentation of local culture, aiming to inspire film-location tourism and boost domestic market. The target audience is quality tourists, particularly Gen Y-Z and movie enthusiasts.
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