Published on
September 16, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has issued a comprehensive travel advisory due to heightened border safety measures across several provinces in Eastern and Northeastern Thailand. The provinces affected include Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat. These provinces are experiencing increased security and restrictions due to ongoing tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Border Closures and Martial Law Restrictions
As part of these safety measures, border checkpoints across the affected provinces are closed. Martial law continues to be enforced in specific districts of Chanthaburi and Trat, while a ceasefire between Thai and Cambodian forces is currently in effect. Despite these precautions, travel throughout the rest of Thailand remains unaffected. Major destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya continue to operate as normal, ensuring that tourists can still enjoy the rest of the country without interruption.
In addition to the border closures, the Thai authorities have imposed restrictions on drone usage in certain areas. From September 16 to 30, drone flights are permitted only under strict conditions, including advance notifications and restricted flying hours, during the daytime (06:00-18:00) and a maximum altitude of 90 metres. Drone flights remain prohibited in areas under martial law or those with ongoing military operations.
Ongoing until Further Notice
The heightened security measures will remain in place until further notice. The TAT urges travellers to avoid all border checkpoints, tourist attractions, and national parks in the affected provinces. These measures are in effect until at least the end of September 2025, and visitors should remain cautious during this period.
Affected Provinces and Specific Zones
The following areas in the affected provinces are closed to visitors:
- Ubon Ratchathani: Phu Chong Na Yoi National Park, Kaeng Lamduan, Yod Dom Wildlife Sanctuary
- Surin: Prasat Ta Muen Thom, Phanom Swai Forest Park, Huai Taptan Wildlife Sanctuary
- Si Sa Ket: Khao Phra Wihan National Park, Chong Sa Ngam, Huai Sala Wildlife Sanctuary
- Buri Ram: Ta Phraya National Park, Prasat Mueang Tam Stone Sanctuary
- Sa Kaeo: Rong Kluea Market, Prasat Sdok Kok Thom
- Chanthaburi: Ban Laem and Ban Phat Kad checkpoints, Khao Khitchakut district
- Trat: Ban Hat Lek, Ban Muen Dan, and Ban Ma Muang checkpoints
These zones, including some of Thailand’s most revered parks, ancient ruins, and border areas, are currently off-limits to all visitors as security forces maintain a strong presence in the region.
National Security and Cross-Border Tensions
The travel advisory comes as a direct result of ongoing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia along their shared border. The Thai government has prioritized the safety of both its citizens and foreign visitors. With martial law still in effect in specific areas and ongoing military operations in certain zones, the Thai government has put in place these preventive measures to avoid further escalation of cross-border tensions.
Though the situation remains stable for now, authorities urge all tourists to exercise caution and refrain from entering high-risk areas. The priority is to maintain peace and order, ensuring that the general safety of the public and visitors is not compromised.
Authorities Enforcing Strict Compliance
Visitors and residents are required to comply with local authorities’ instructions, including those from military personnel stationed in the affected zones. Travel around these areas should be avoided completely. For tourists planning to visit other parts of Thailand, domestic transport services—including air, rail, bus, and ferry—are operating normally, and visitors can continue their journey without concern in unaffected areas.
Drone operators planning to fly in restricted zones must submit an approval request via the UAS Portal, adhering to the regulations set forth by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The safety of visitors is paramount, and all drone activities in restricted areas will be closely monitored.
Travel to Thailand Remains Safe, But Exercise Caution Near Borders
While Thailand continues to welcome tourists to many of its major destinations, safety measures along its eastern and northeastern borders remain critical. The Tourism Authority of Thailand strongly advises against visiting the provinces impacted by border security issues and encourages all visitors to stay informed by checking for official updates. As Thailand remains one of the world’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations, these temporary safety measures ensure that the tourism industry can continue thriving in the long run, while security concerns are addressed appropriately.
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