Thailand’s marine wonders reopen for adventure after six-month pause

FILE PHOTO: Thailand's corals bleaching at fast pace amid rising global temperature
FILE PHOTO: Lalita Putchim, a marine biologist of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) dives to survey in an area of bleached corals in a reef in Koh Mak, Trat province, Thailand, May 8, 2024. This year so far the country's weather recorded the highest temperature at 44.2 degrees Celsius affecting the seawater temperature as well. REUTERS/Napat Wesshasartar/File Photo
Source: REUTERS

Three iconic marine national parks have reopened in Thailand for tourists and visitors from across the world.

This comes after a previous six-month closure implemented to protect marine life from the adverse effects of rising sea temperatures and increased tourism pressure.

The Similan National Park, Surin Islands National Park, and Laem Son National Park, located in the Andaman Sea, are now open from October 15, 2024, to May 15, 2025.

These parks will be closed again next year for conservation.

This is common practice among many parks in Thailand. Among the country’s 156 parks, some parks are closed during specific times annually to preserve the ecosystem.

The reopened marine parks offer a variety of activities, including snorkelling, diving, and cultural events. Similan National Park is renowned for its clear waters and coral reefs, making it a favourite spot for divers.

 Surin Islands National Park also provides excellent snorkelling opportunities and is known for its whale sharks. Laem Son National Park, in Ranong and Phang Nga provinces, is popular for its sandy beaches and coral reefs, attracting both scuba divers and snorkelers.

The closures were part of ongoing efforts to protect marine life from the effects of rising sea temperatures and increased tourism, ensuring the long-term health of these ecosystems.

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