Shore thing: Viral video shows Indian tourists sleeping on Pattaya Beach
A video circulating on Instagram showing what appears to be a mass takeover of Pattaya Beach by Indian tourists has set social media on fire.
Shared with the not-so-subtle caption “Indian Tourists in Pattaya,” the clip reveals around 100 holidaymakers lounging on mats. Some are seen knocking back beers while surrounded by unsightly piles of litter.
The footage has ignited a firestorm of criticism from local and international keyboard warriors alike. Many are baffled by the tourists’ choice of sandy seafront over plush hotel accommodation, questioning if their beach antics might tarnish Pattaya’s global image.
In response to the uproar, Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet shed light on the situation, noting a noticeable influx of Indian tourists, particularly during the bustling high season.
He pointed out that the recent beach expansions have turned the area into a 24/7 relaxation hub. As a public space, Pattaya Beach cannot enforce strict opening or closing times.
“Our municipal authorities and tourist police are keeping a close eye on Pattaya Beach around the clock. While we cannot stop visitors from sleeping on the beach if they aren’t breaking the law, any noise, rowdiness, or unruly alcohol consumption will be quickly addressed under existing regulations.”
As for the rubbish left behind, Pattaya has slapped fines of up to 2,000 baht for litterbugs. To ramp up security and deter illegal activities, the city has also rolled out high-mast lighting and CCTV surveillance.
While Pattaya continues to roll out the red carpet for tourists worldwide, local government officials are urging visitors to respect local rules to maintain the city’s charm. Any breaches, like causing disturbances or littering, will be met with strict enforcement, reported to SiamRath.
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Stories of India tourists regularly make headlines in Pattaya. Only two weeks ago, three Thai ladyboys offered an Indian man a seemingly friendly hug before stealing his gold necklace, worth about 132,000 baht, from him on Pattaya Beach in the early hours of today.
The 42 year old Indian businessman, Pravin Manik Tavada, filed a complaint at Mueang Pattaya Police Station at around on January 20. Tavada reported that he had lost a 40-gramme gold necklace while enjoying the atmosphere on Pattaya Beach.