The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has completed a technical familiarisation trip for its overseas marketing representatives, offering an exclusive preview of the upcoming Blue Jasmine Luxury Rail Journey. Held from 22 to 24 July 2025, the trip welcomed 39 TAT executives from European and American offices, following their Annual Plan Meeting in Bangkok.

The familiarisation tour was organised to provide first-hand exposure to Thailand's soon-to-be-launched high-end rail tourism product. The initiative is part of TAT's broader strategy to position Thailand as a destination for premium cultural travel experiences.

Developed by DTH Travel, the Blue Jasmine: A Timeless Rail Journey Through Thailand is a nine-day tour designed to promote the country's rich historical and cultural heritage. The route travels from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station to Chiang Mai, with stopovers in Ayutthaya, Uthai Thani, and Sukhothai, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the ancient cities of Ayutthaya and Si Satchanalai.

Passengers will travel aboard a meticulously restored 1956 Japanese sleeper train, retrofitted with private en-suite cabins, panoramic lounges, and a dining car featuring Thai culinary experiences. The trial journey included curated activities to immerse guests in Thai traditions, such as a dawn almsgiving ceremony by the Sakae Krang River, visits to the ornate Wat Chantharam temple complex, and cultural workshops on Sangkhalok ceramics and silk weaving.

A traditional Lanna dance performance by the Yom River was among the many highlights experienced during the trip.

The official launch of the Blue Jasmine Rail Journey is scheduled for 16 November 2025, with additional scheduled departures planned throughout 2026 in January, February, March, July, November, and December.

According to TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool (as previously reported in The Nation Thailand, July 2025), the luxury rail tour reflects Thailand's evolving tourism strategy, which now includes niche, sustainable, and experience-based travel products. "This journey offers an opportunity to engage visitors on a deeper level with our culture, while promoting low-carbon tourism and supporting local economies," she stated.

DTH Travel, the operator behind the journey, aims to attract high-value travellers seeking authentic and environmentally conscious experiences. The initiative supports Thailand's National Tourism Development Plan, which emphasises decentralising tourism income to secondary cities and cultural hotspots.

As the global tourism industry continues to recover post-pandemic, TAT expects that the insights gained from this familiarisation trip will help refine promotional strategies for key international markets, reinforcing Thailand's status as a premier cultural and luxury destination.

For more information, visit the official TAT website or follow DTH Travel's updates on the Blue Jasmine project.