Thailand Seeks ASEAN Heritage Park Recognition for Doi Inthanon

Thailand Seeks ASEAN Heritage Park Recognition for Doi Inthanon

Thailand is seeking ASEAN Heritage Park status for Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, with regional biodiversity experts scheduled to assess the area from September 16 to 18. The park covers nearly 297,000 rai and is approximately 89.5% natural forest, including important headwaters feeding the Ping and Chao Phraya river systems. Government figures list at least 1,271 plant species and 393 wildlife species in the park, including rare and endangered animals such as goral, serow and white-handed gibbons. Officials say the designation could strengthen conservation efforts while supporting research, environmental education, ecotourism and surrounding communities. Following the on-site assessment, the proposal must still pass several ASEAN environmental bodies before Doi Inthanon can officially receive Heritage Park status.