Southeast Asia’s largest waterpark is on course for a big future as the US$46m (€40.8m, £32.4m) Pattaya-based attraction in Thailand prepares to open its doors.

Designed by Hassell Architects with WhiteWater West and Pentair acting as suppliers, the Thailand Board of Investment-approved development offers 21 state-of-the-art waterslides in addition to a raft of of features including a dedicated kids zone a double wave pool, lazy river, caves, water features, spa pools and relaxation pools.

Ramayana will be one of Thailand’s premier visitor attractions, expecting to draw one million visitors in its first year, and two million per year by 2020. The 184,000sq m (45.4 acre) property – which will host events and functions for up to 3,000 people – predicts a visitor split of 60 per cent foreign to 40 per cent domestic.

“One-quarter of Pattaya’s overnight visitors are Thai,” said Johannes Pattermann, Ramayana’s director of marketing and sales, speaking to Attractions Management. “Ramayana is within the two-hour drive limitation that waterparks normally experience so it will be able to attract visitors from the huge Bangkok market.”

Owned by a group of private investors, the waterpark has received strong endorsement and support from the local Thai authorities.

“Ramayana will be much more than just a waterpark,” said Pattermann. “With its state of the art stage it will also become a major location for events in Thailand.

“It is a good time to invest in Thailand, otherwise Ramayana would not be being developed. The number of tourists coming here has been growing at an exponential rate. The new Thai government has also started some very good initiatives, which include clearing beaches and organising public transport. Improved conditions are enticing more international visitors who are coming in larger numbers than ever before.”

While there are currently no plans to expand the waterpark – which is surrounded by a picturesque scene of natural lakes and hills – Ramayana has reserved a third of its land for future expansion. “This will not only allow the growing number of visitors to enjoy the park without waiting times, but also offer the latest thrills and rides,” said Pattermann.

The waterpark has been confirmed to open this month, although no date has been officially announced by Ramayana.