CHIANG MAI – The vice-chair of the Chiang Mai Provincial Cultural Council has criticised images showing a group of young foreign women sunbathing in bikinis by the city moat, close to a temple entrance.
He said the behaviour was unacceptable, especially where some were lying with their feet pointing towards the temple. While he understands this may be normal in their home countries or in certain tourist spots, he said it doesn’t fit a city with Chiang Mai’s long-standing culture and traditions.
He also urged the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and related agencies to do more to explain local customs and respectful behavior to foreign visitors, to help prevent similar incidents.
Photos shared widely on social media
The issue began after the Facebook page “Exposing Chiang Mai V2” posted photos of a group of teenage foreign tourists wearing bikinis and sunbathing on grass beside the moat near Wat Ratchamon Thian. The post included comments pointing out cultural differences and criticising the lack of awareness shown by the group.
The post spread quickly and drew a large number of reactions. Many people said sunbathing in swimwear in front of a temple, in a busy public area, was disrespectful and not suitable for Chiang Mai.
On January 8, 2026, Wanthlop Namwongphrom, vice-chair of the Chiang Mai Provincial Cultural Council, stated that he had seen the images online. The photos showed the women sunbathing in bikinis by the moat opposite a temple, with pedestrians and traffic nearby.
Visitors Should Learn Thai Customs
He said clearly that the behaviour was not appropriate and could not be accepted. He repeated that, while this might be seen as normal in other countries or at some well-known tourist locations in Thailand, it is not suitable in Chiang Mai. He stressed that this was a central public space where people pass through all day, and it sits close to temples and other religious sites.
The vice-chair said visitors should learn about local customs before travelling to Chiang Mai, so they understand what is acceptable in public spaces, especially near temples. He called on TAT and everyone involved in tourism, both public and private, to share clear, accurate guidance with tourists to help avoid actions that upset local people who care deeply about their culture and traditions.
He also said police and municipal officers should keep an eye on key areas. If they see behaviour like this, they should step in, give a warning, and explain what’s appropriate, so it doesn’t happen again.
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