The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Narit) has joined hands with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to promote "astronomical tourism", with 18 stargazing locations designated as dark sky reserves this year.
Narit director Saran Poshyachinda said the institute and TAT launched the Amazing Dark Sky in Thailand Season 2 project to introduce 18 stargazing locations nationwide that have been registered as dark sky reserves where artificial light can't reach.
The TAT and Narit initiated the Amazing Dark Sky in Thailand project in 2020 to promote dark sky tourism, raise awareness of light pollution, and the preservation of quiet and dark skies, which are perfect photography spots for stargazers, he said.
Narit had held astronomical activities more than 150 times, attended by at least 100,000 stargazers over the past three years.
This year, 26 locations across the country were proposed for endorsement as dark sky reserves, but only 18 met the criteria, Mr Saran said.
They consist of five national parks and 13 properties.
The parks are Mae Wong National Park in Kamphaeng Phet, Ta Phraya National Park in Sa Kaeo, Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima, Si Nan National Park in Nan and Namtok Pha Luang Forest Park in Ubon Ratchathani.
The 13 properties include Khon Kaen Zoo, Mela Garden Retreat Cottage Resort in Saraburi, Khirimala Eco Camp in Ratchaburi, Saengsuk Farm in Rayong, Rai Khao Noi Sawana in Nakhon Ratchasima and Ao Toh Li Viewpoint in Phangnga.
There are also seven properties in Chiang Mai, which are Ton Khao Hom Ban Aom Doi (Chill Chiang Dao), Villa De View Chiang Dao, Chiang Dao Farm Stay, Ban Suan Pa Pong Doi, the Teak Resort, Putoh Chiang Dao and the Summit Green Valley Chiangmai Country Club.