Hey, road trippers and thrifty travelers, listen up! As the Songkran holidays approach, why not hit the road on a scenic, cost-free adventure? The Thai government has a special treat this year to celebrate the festivities without weighing on your wallets. Feast your eyes on the delightful M6 motorway, stretching for a whopping 85 kilometers from Hin Kong in Saraburi all the way to the lovely Pak Chong in Nakhon Ratchasima, which will be open for a complimentary cruise. Yes, you heard that right—absolutely toll-free!
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has announced this generous gesture, making it easier for you to indulge in your wanderlust from April 11 through April 17. Whether you’re planning a getaway to the enchanting landscapes of Pak Chong or anticipating a relaxed return to the scenic roads of Hin Kong, these dates are key to your hassle-free journey.
From April 11 to April 13, the outbound lanes zipping toward the attractions of Pak Chong in Nakhon Ratchasima are all yours without the inconvenience of toll booths. And once you’ve basked in your Songkran escapades, starting April 14 through April 17, you can make your way back on the inbound lanes toward Hin Kong in Nong Khae district of Saraburi without shelling out a single baht.
Now, if you’re wondering about the legitimacy of this offer, rest assured. Apirat Chaiwongnoi, the wise and well-informed director of the Department of Highways, assures us that this worthwhile Pak Chong-Nakhon Ratchasima section has been tested since the New Year holidays, ensuring safety and convenience.
Mark your calendars! The picturesque Hin Kong-Pak Chong stretch will be open for your vehicular pleasures just as the clock strikes a minute past midnight on April 11, inviting carefree explorers until the last stroke of midnight on April 17.
Before you rev your engines in excitement, take note, only four-wheeled comrades are invited on this journey, cruising at a measured speed limit of 80km per hour, ensuring that you can soak in the views responsibly.
So adjust those rearview mirrors, pack your bags, and crank up your favorite road trip tunes. With ideal timing, exhilarating destinations, and costs kept to a delightful zero, your Songkran holiday could be one for the books, all thanks to a stretch of road that opens its arms wide and welcomes you with free passage!
Wow, this is amazing! A free toll road just for Songkran. Can’t wait to experience the scenic drive without worrying about tolls.
Sure it’s free, but I bet there’s a catch. I wouldn’t be surprised if they jack up gas prices.
I guess, but even if they did, it makes a huge difference for those who drive a long way.
Songkran is such a beautiful holiday, and this makes it even better. It shows that sometimes governments can do something right for the people.
More cars on the road means more pollution. And for what? Some free tolls for a week?
Right! Why is everyone celebrating more cars? This should be biking time.
Bikes are not practical for long distances during holidays. Plus, people want to travel with family.
Make sure you check your car’s condition before heading out. Free or not, breaking down on a busy road is no fun.
Great point, Clark! Always a smart move to get a maintenance check before hitting the road.
I work at a toll booth, and I think this is unfair to toll workers. Will we still be paid for the week?
Hopefully, the government has something planned for you guys. Employees shouldn’t lose income over something like this.
With more people on the road, maybe this will highlight the need for better infrastructure across the country.
True. Let’s hope it doesn’t lead to disasters before they get the hint.
This is reminiscent of the Autobahn excuses in Germany post-WWII promoting travel. Economics over everything, I guess.
Well, I’m just thrilled at the opportunity to see more of Thailand. Life is to be enjoyed, right?
Exactly! Carpe diem and all that. Seize the free road while you can!
This might make the roads super crowded. Planning trips at odd hours might be helpful to avoid congestion.
Good plan, Sai. Starting early in the morning usually helps beat the crowd.
I’m new to Songkran! Can someone recommend cool spots to visit along this route?
Free toll road is a recipe for an endless traffic jam if you ask me!
Better to focus on the positive. A little patience goes a long way.
Tolls might be free, but accommodation won’t be! Plan accordingly, fellow travelers.
Great timing! Kids would love the trip without constant stops at toll booths.
I hope authorities are prepared for the possible road rage incidents. Free roads during a major holiday might spell chaos.
As long as everyone stays calm and respectful, it should be fine. Let’s hope for the best.
Gotta love a government that understands the people’s need for affordable leisure! Kudos.
Free things always come with a hidden cost somewhere down the line. Let’s wait and see.
Despite the concerns, I think this is an exciting opportunity. It’s not every day such a gift is given to the general public.