This is good news for Thailand, as the 216th executive board of UNESCO recently endorsed "Korat Geopark" in Nakhon Ratchasima Province as a UNESCO Global Geopark. This makes it the fourth such park worldwide, following sites in Italy, South Korea, and China.

     The heart of a Geopark, or geo-park, is an area of geological and geomorphological value of international significance, combined with other natural sites and culturally significant locations. These are tied to geological and managed in an integrated manner, including conservation, education, and sustainable development initiatives, with local communities participating in management from the bottom up, reinforcing the local identity.

     After UNESCO's endorsement of "Korat Geopark", Nakhon Ratchasima is now recognized as the land of "3 UNESCO Crowns (Korat The UNESCO Triple Heritage City)" comprising of the following: 

1. The Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex, a world heritage site
2. The Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve
3. The Korat Geopark, a region encompassing the Lam Takhong River Basin, which features the Cuesta mountain landscape (also known as the Eto mountain), and fossils from three eras, connected with the dry evergreen forest ecosystem and the lifestyle of people dating back more than 4,000 years in the geographical area around the middle to lower Lam Takhong River Basin.

     This recognition promotes geological conservation and generates economic benefits in the form of geotourism, creating sustainable income for local communities.

     As for Thailand, it now boasts two Global Geoparks. The first is the “Satun Geopark”, covering four districts in Satun Province, namely Mueang, Thung Wa, Manang, and La-ngu. The second is "Korat Geopark", encompassing five districts in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, namely Sikhio, Sung Noen, Kham Thale So, Mueang, and Chaloem Phra Kiat.

Data updated on May 22, 2023
Source: Office of the Prime Minister, Government House
Tel. +66 2280 9000

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