Leading the revenue generated was Nopparat Thara Beach – Phi Phi Islands National Park, which recorded B500.87 million in revenues during the period, reports state news agency NNT.
Similan National Park placed second with B243.66mn followed by Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park with B127.82mn.
Ao Phang Nga National Park, on Phuket’s doorstep, recorded B114.23mn in revenue, even outpacing Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, rated as one of the country’s most popular national parks, which recorded B100.55mn
“Nopparat Thara Beach National Park, home to the Phi Phi Islands, remains the most popular destination among foreign tourists. In the past nine months, it has collected over B500 million, a major increase from the previous period’s B300mn”, said the NNT report.
The park saw more than 4.5 million foreign visitors, a 41.5% increase compared with last year, the report added.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) stated that most of the revenue would be allocated to developing infrastructure and facilities within the parks.
The remaining funds will cover staff wages, personnel development, and contributions to local government organizations surrounding the parks, the DNP said.