Over 5,300 Visitors Flock to Thai Nature Parks for Royal Birthday

Over 5,300 Visitors Flock to Thai Nature Parks for Royal Birthday

On July 30, 2024, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin announced the success of his conservation-focused tourism initiative, which offers the public access to natural attractions while promoting forest preservation. The ministry tasked the Forestry Department with developing all 37 national recreation forests nationwide into quality nature tourism destinations and waived entrance fees at seven facilities during the royal birthday period to encourage families to spend time in nature.

Suchat revealed that the 37 national recreation forests across Thailand welcomed a combined 5,315 visitors and tourists during the July 28 royal birthday celebration, demonstrating the success of conservation tourism policies and appropriate public access to natural areas. The three most popular recreation forests were Bok Luek in Ubon Ratchathani, Hin Sam Wale in Bueng Kan, and Khao Ito Waterfall in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Other acclaimed natural attractions drawing steady visitor interest include Aiyerweng Sea Mist in Yala, Khao Soon in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Bo Sip Song in Phayao, and Dong Roi Thao Arkhosawr in Phetchabun, all serving as distinctive and resource-rich natural learning sites.

Suchat emphasized that conservation tourism not only provides recreation and ecological education but also generates income, stimulates grassroots economies through local goods and services, and enables community participation in sustainable resource management. "The ministry will continue promoting conservation tourism to ensure Thai citizens can access natural sites under management that balances ecosystem health with sustainable resource use, creating prosperity for people and strength for local communities alike," he said.