Expanding astronomical tourism in Thailand via the establishment of 16 dark sky conservation areas across the country.
Thailand Expands Dark Sky Conservation Areas for Stargazing and Sustainable Tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) have announced the addition of 16 new dark sky conservation areas across the country as part of "AMAZING DARK SKY IN THAILAND #Season 4". This initiative aims to promote astronomical tourism, raise awareness about light pollution, and encourage energy conservation.
The new stargazing locations include Thung Non Pa Ko, Khao Phra Wihan, Phu Suan Sai, Phu Hin Rong Kla, and Mae Ping. These sites are strategically located in various regions of Thailand, enhancing the country’s dark sky network and appealing to astronomy enthusiasts, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers.
In addition to these national park locations, the project also includes dark sky properties, which are privately owned venues that follow dark sky standards for stargazing. Examples include Golden Cliff Beach Resort (Trat), Daraga Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai), Dara Cuisine Phuket (Phuket), Baan Rai Nai Khieo (Khon Kaen), Fountain Tree Resort (Nakhon Ratchasima), Phu Phrom Dao Farmstay (Chaiyaphum), Wanatara Resort (Phitsanulok), Mae Lamao Forest Plantation (Forest Industry Organisation, Tak), and Mae Fah Luang Garden (Doi Tung Development Project, Chiang Rai).
Over the past three years, 48 locations across Thailand have been designated as official dark sky conservation areas. These sites offer excellent opportunities for stargazing and provide a unique experience for travelers seeking a connection with nature.
The dark sky tourism guidebook is available for download at https://shorturl.at/CC75X. The initiative also includes dark sky suburbs, conservation areas located in suburban environments, such as Elephant Kingdom (Surin) and Walai Rukhavej Botanical Garden (Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham).
The event was co-presided by Apichai Chatchalermkit, TAT Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, and Assoc Prof Dr Viphu Rujopakarn, Deputy Director of NARIT. The collaboration between TAT and NARIT emphasizes sustainable tourism and connecting visitors with the natural night environment.
For more information and to apply for registration as a dark sky conservation area in Thailand, organisations can visit https://darksky.narit.or.th/. The project not only promotes tourism but also raises awareness about light pollution and encourages responsible lighting practices.
- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) have expanded the dark sky conservation areas in Thailand to inspire sustainable tourism and address light pollution.
- The addition of 16 new stargazing locations, such as Thung Non Pa Ko and Phu Suan Sai, caters to astronomy enthusiasts, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers, enriching the country's dark sky network.
- Apart from national park locations, privately-owned venues like the Golden Cliff Beach Resort and Fountain Tree Resort adhere to dark sky standards, contributing to the project's success.
- With 48 designated dark sky conservation areas over the past three years, Thailand offers exceptional opportunities for stargazing, providing a memorable experience for travelers in tune with nature.
- The dark sky tourism guidebook is available for download, while dark sky suburbs like Elephant Kingdom and Walai Rukhavej Botanical Garden promote responsible lighting practices and environmental awareness.
- TAT and NARIT's collaboration focuses on sustainable tourism, connecting visitors with the natural night environment, thereby balancing tourism growth, economy, and the environment in the space and astronomy, education, business, and lifestyle sectors.
