Pattani: The Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, has introduced a new multicultural tourism route in Pattani Province, inviting visitors to explore three distinct cultural traditions and unveiling seven "Unseen Thai Thai" attractions aimed at generating community income.
According to Thai News Agency, the initiative was inaugurated by Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture, at the "Following the Path of Faith: Pattani's Multicultural City" event. The ceremony, part of the Religious Tourism Route Project for the fiscal year 2026, took place at Sai Khao Waterfall National Park in Khok Pho District, Pattani Province. The event was attended by key figures including Ms. Patima Sadiyamu, Governor of Pattani Province, and Mr. Chaiyaphon Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs.
The project supports the government's Quick Big Win policy, which seeks to promote tourism in secondary cities by developing new cultural spaces, known as "Unseen Thai Thai." The aim is to capitalize on cultural assets to create economic value through religious tourism activities, enhancing community identities and ensuring sustainable local income.
Pattani Province, known for its cultural diversity, merges the traditions of Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Chinese culture. The "Three Cultural Ways Learning Center" offers tourists an immersive experience reflecting this diverse heritage.
As part of the 2026 fiscal year's 20 promoted religious tourism routes, Pattani's initiative aims to enhance the capability of temples and religious sites, transforming them into centers of cultural learning and economic growth.
The seven key "Unseen" highlights include Sai Khao Waterfall National Park, Wat Rat Buranaram, Yarung Ancient City, Leng Chu Kiang Shrine, Pattani Central Mosque, Krue Se Mosque, and St. Gabriel the Archangel Church. Each site offers unique historical and cultural insights, from ancient temples and mosques to significant archaeological sites.
Visitors can also enjoy the local multicultural lifestyle by sampling regional dishes like Gai Khor Lae and Khao Yam Pattani, and exploring cultural products such as Chuan Pattani fabric and batik prints. The initiative aims to transform religious sites into community centers for cultural transmission and economic stimulation.
The Ministry of Culture invites both Thai and foreign tourists to explore the 'Pattani Multicultural City Faith Route,' to experience its cultural diversity, and to contribute to the sustainable preservation of religious and cultural values. This initiative endeavors to elevate Thailand's image in religious and cultural tourism on an international platform. - 612 Thai News Agency