'Kingdom of Lights' dazzles travelers in world's first Thai carnival park
For travelers who have been to Phuket and are looking for something new, Carnival Magic — the world's first Thai carnival theme park which opened in November — is no doubt sitting at the top of the recommendation list.
With a total investment of $150 million, the park will impress visitors with its magical "Kingdom of Lights". Located in Phuket's Kamala Beach area, it offers spectacular Thai-style carnivals augmented by modern technology.
Kittikorn Kewkacha, president and CEO of Carnival Magic Co, said the park is inspired by the fun and colorful parades, carnivals and temple fairs across Thailand. It features many interesting and unique attractions and dazzling lights that match international standards.
The theme park is divided into four parts, namely Kingdom of Lights, Carnival Fun Fair, River Palace and Bird of Paradise Buffet Restaurant.
The Kingdom of Lights, built as an illumination park, is the most attractive site in the park with more than 40 million lights, creating a dazzling world that sparks visitors' imagination.
In this area, travelers can enjoy stunning illuminated decorations and sculptures. The centerpiece is the River of Lights where millions of lights glitter from uniquely designed steel plates called the luminaries, which are installed around a lake and stretch more than 50 kilometers.
In the Carnival Fun Fair, people can go through a shopping street and enjoy the atmosphere created by a huge array of bright and colorful shops. Apart from snacks and desserts, entertainment is available on the street, including carnival performances, VR games and carnival games.
Indoor parade show
The River Palace, which looks like a palace of the ancient Kamala Kingdom, is an indoor show theater — it is one of the largest in Thailand and among the largest in the world. It can accommodate 2,200 spectators and showcases the world's biggest indoor parade show called the River Carnival.
The 50-minute show blends fantasies, festivals and traditional parades of Thailand using modern technology and special effects. Among the highlights are more than 88 gigantic floats with millions of lights, automation and special effects.
Dining in the park's Bird of Paradise Buffet Restaurant is a must after enjoying the attractions. The restaurant, which looks like a colorful paradise guarded by two giant peacocks fanning their tails, provides more than 100 options for visitors, including Indian, vegetarian and Halal dishes.
The park has achieved nine Guinness World Records, including the world's longest single chassis parade float and the world's largest popcorn machine, making it one of the most record-breaking theme parks in the world.
"We believe that Phuket's tourism industry will remain the country's main income-generating destination for years to come," Kittikorn said. "We intend Carnival Magic to become a landmark for this special island and to play a major role in attracting more tourists to support growth in Phuket."
