Thailand’s national parks smash revenue records

Thailand’s national parks achieved a monumental milestone, breaking revenue records by collecting a whopping 1.785 billion baht between October 1 last year, and June 20 this year. This incredible sum surpasses the total amount collected in the whole of 2023, which stood at 1.467 billion baht.

Leading the charge is the Nopparat Thara Beach National Park, Phi Phi Islands, raking in an impressive 500.87 million baht. This park, a magnet for foreign tourists, has seen a dramatic increase in visitors, recording over 4.5 million foreign arrivals, a 41.5% rise from the previous year. In the past nine months, the park’s revenue surged from 300 million baht to over 500 million baht.

Similan National Park follows with 243.66 million baht, renowned for its breathtaking underwater beauty. Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park garnered 127.82 million baht, attracting visitors with its stunning coastal views. Ao Phang Nga National Park, famous for its dramatic limestone karsts, brought in 114.23 million baht. Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak, completed the top five with 100.55 million baht.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) revealed that the bulk of this revenue would be channelled into improving infrastructure and facilities within these natural treasures.

“Most of the funds will be allocated to developing the parks’ infrastructure and facilities.”

The remaining funds will be used to cover staff wages, enhance personnel development, and support local government organisations in areas surrounding the parks, reported Pattaya Mail.

In related news, a pre-wedding photoshoot at Khao Yai National Park sparked widespread criticism after a couple and their photographer ignored warning signs and ventured into a restricted area. The incident occurred near the Nong Pak Chi Wildlife Watching Tower.

In other news, the DNP reported a significant reduction in wildfires within Thailand’s Western Forest Complex, attributing the success to integrated efforts from various sectors which reduced wildfires by over 40%. Director of Forest Fire Prevention and Suppression, Narupon Thipmonta revealed that the most affected area was the Srinakarin Dam National Park in Kanchanaburi Province.