Satun gets new ring as ‘geopark’

A large area in Satun province has been approved by Unesco as the first Global Geopark in Thailand in recognition of its 550-million-year-old geological structure and cultural diversity.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) endorsed the application yesterday during a meeting in Paris. The decision was made after the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment nominated the site in 2016.

Covering almost 2,500 square kilometres of primeval forest, sea and limestone mounts, the geopark extends over four of the province’s seven districts comprising Thung Wa, Manang, Langu and part of Muang district. It also takes in the Thuek Kao Ban Tad Wildlife Sanctuary and two marine national parks — Patra and Taruta, the latter of which comprises Lipe Island, dubbed “the Maldives of Thailand” by its fans.

Unesco defines global geoparks as areas “where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development”. Its website describes the area in Thailand as “a peaceful place with renowned natural beauty, where cultures and religious groups live together in harmony”.

Narongrit Thungprue, the Satun geopark director, said the geopark status would spur local tourism, especially on land.

PHOTO BY SATUN GEOPARK/RATH JITRATTANA The spectacular natural arch of Ko Khai, often referred to as ‘Lover’s Gate’, is used as a tourism symbol for Satun province. Couples who pass through the arch will remain in love forever, so the legend goes.