National parks revenue soars 50%, reaching 2.2 billion baht

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) reported a significant increase in income, reaching 2.2 billion baht in the fiscal year 2024, marking a nearly 50% rise.

Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi in Krabi emerged as the top revenue generator, contributing 629 million baht (US$19 million). Khao Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima was noted as the most popular park among visitors.

Attapon Charoenchansa, the DNP Director-General, confirmed plans to open additional tourist attractions to boost the economy. These plans include new nature study trails, expanded botanical gardens, and some wildlife sanctuaries, said Attapon.

“The 133 national parks and nine forest parks generated a total revenue of 2.2 billion baht (US$66 million) from October 1 last year to September 30 this year, up from 1.4 billion baht (US$42 million) the previous year, or a 49.9% increase.”

Following Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi, the top revenue-generating parks were Mu Koh Similan National Park in Phangnga (243 million baht) (US$73 million), Khao Laem Ya-Mu Koh Samet National Park in Rayong (164 million baht) (US$5 million), Ao Phangnga National Park in Phangnga (149 million baht) (US$4.5 million), and Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima (129 million baht) (US$4 million).

Tourist visits to the parks totalled 18.6 million (12.6 million Thai and 5.9 million foreign tourists), a 17.7% increase from the previous fiscal year’s 15.8 million tourists.

Khao Yai National Park saw the highest number of visitors, followed by Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, Khao Laem Ya-Mu Koh Samet National Park, Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, and Khao Khitchakut National Park in Chanthaburi.

Attapon expressed optimism for the fiscal year 2025, expecting revenue to reach 2.4 billion baht (US$72 million). He indicated that the DNP would upgrade infrastructure and facilities to accommodate the growing number of tourists.

The DNP will also extend the advance booking period for accommodation within national parks from the current 30 days to 60 days.

Additionally, an online ticketing system will be introduced for six popular parks: Khao Yai National Park, Inthanon National Park, Ao Phangnga National Park, Mu Koh Similan National Park, Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, and Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi, reported Bangkok Post.

“The e-ticket sales system for all national parks would be ready within the next two years,” added Attapon.