Explore the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage sites in Thailand

With its rich cultural and historical heritage, the Land of Golden Temples boasts numerous significant sites, some of which are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage sites. Let's delve into Thailand's World Heritage sites through the following article!

Discover the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage sites in Thailand

The historic city of Ayutthaya (Ancient Ayutthaya)

The historic city of Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Ayutthaya province. It served as the second capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom from 1350 to 1767 and was one of the largest urban areas during that period. Founded in 1350 by King U Thong, it remained the capital for over 400 years until it was sacked by the Burmese army in 1767.

Ayutthaya City features numerous important historical landmarks such as temples, palaces, showcasing the kingdom's rich cultural heritage. Some of the most popular sites within the city include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the most sacred temple in Ayutthaya used for royal ceremonies; Wat Phra Mahathat, home to the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots; and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, built in Khmer style with stunning architecture.

Historic town of Sukhothai

The historic town of Sukhothai is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the North Central region of Thailand. It served as the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom founded in the 13th century. The town is known for its historical significance and the remnants of ancient temples and palaces that can be found everywhere.

Today, visitors to Sukhothai can explore the ruins of the ancient city, sprawling over an area of about 70 square kilometers. The most famous site in the town is the Sukhothai Historical Park, home to over 190 ruins of temples and palaces. There are also other ruins such as Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Sawai, and Wat Sra Sri with intricate architecture and carvings.

Ban Chiang archaeological site

The Ban Chiang archaeological site is an important archaeological site, recognized as a World Heritage site in Thailand for its significant contributions to understanding prehistoric Southeast Asia. Ban Chiang was first discovered in the 1960s. The area is believed to have been inhabited since around 3600 BCE during the Bronze Age.

The most important discoveries at Ban Chiang are artifacts such as pottery, bronze items, and tools that reflect technological advancements and cultural practices of people living in this area thousands of years ago. The pottery found here is decorated with intricate patterns, showcasing advanced techniques, with evidence of the use of potter's wheels and pottery firing in kilns.

Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex

The Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex is a World Heritage site in Thailand recognized by UNESCO. This complex comprises two national parks, Khao Yai National Park and Thap Lan National Park, as well as two wildlife sanctuaries, Dong Yai and Ta Phraya. Covering an area of approximately 6,155 square kilometers, this area is known for its natural beauty and remarkable biodiversity.

The forest complex is home to numerous plant and animal species, many of which are endangered or endemic to the region. It is one of the few remaining intact forest areas in Southeast Asia and is considered an important habitat for biodiversity conservation.

This site also contains evidence of human habitation since the Neolithic period, and the Prasat Hin Phimai temple, dating back to the 11th century and one of the best-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand. Today, the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex is a popular destination for ecotourism, attracting visitors to explore the parks and sanctuaries.

Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary

The Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, located near the border with Myanmar, covers an area of approximately 6,400 square kilometers and is one of the largest protected areas in Southeast Asia. The sanctuary boasts outstanding biodiversity, including many rare and endangered species, making it an important site for scientific research.

The sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, Asian wild dogs, deer, as well as numerous bird and reptile species. Additionally, there are some unique species such as the Kitti's hog-nosed bat, the world's smallest mammal. Furthermore, Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng also contains archaeological sites related to human settlement history, such as the ruins of the ancient city of U Thong dating back to the 7th century, which was an important trading center at that time.

Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex

The Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Thailand newly recognized in 2021. It covers an area of approximately 4,000 square kilometers, including three national parks: Kaeng Krachan, Kui Buri, and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Parks.

Kaeng Krachan National Park is the largest park in the complex, covering an area of 2,915 square kilometers. It is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, gibbons, and hornbill birds. The park also features waterfalls, rivers, and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Kui Buri National Park covers an area of 969 square kilometers and is home to large herds of wild elephants. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is located on the Gulf of Thailand with an area of 98 square kilometers. Here, there are hills, limestone caves, and unique wetland ecosystems, providing habitat for many bird species, including the rare spoon-billed sandpiper.

According to Mytour

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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour