UBON RATCHATHANI - A Senate committee has pledged support for improving transport links, tourism infrastructure and public information in Ubon Ratchathani, to raise the profile of Pha Taem National Park and strengthen Ubon Ratchathani Geopark's bid for Unesco Global Geopark status.
The committee inspected tourist sites in Ubon Ratchathani this past week and was briefed on tourism promotion, challenges and development opportunities, Senator Phisut Ratanawong, chairman of the Senate committee on tourism and sports, said on Sunday.
During its visit to Pha Taem National Park in Khong Chiam district the committee was brought up to date on the area's tourism potential and development needs.
Rhe park's main attractions include Pha Taem viewpoint, one of the first places in Thailand to greet the sunrise each day. Visitors can also access a three-kilometre nature trail leading to a cliff face featuring 180 metres of prehistoric rock paintings dating back 3,500-4,000 years.
- Geopark bid gains momentum-
The committee later travelled to Sam Phan Bok, part of Ubon Ratchathani Geopark, to review preparations for the area's proposed inscription as a Unesco Global Geopark, a key objective in promoting both provincial and national tourism.
The visit comes after the cabinet last month approved Thailand's plan to nominate Ubon Ratchathani Geopark for Unesco recognition. If successful, it would become the country's third Unesco Global Geopark, following Satun and Korat, while Khon Kaen Geopark remains under review.
Local tourism officials noted that Sam Phan Bok, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Thailand", is open to visitors only during the dry season, typically from November to June. During the rainy season, rising Mekong River levels submerge much of the site, precluding normal tourism activities.
Mr Phisut said clearer communication was needed to ensure visitors understand the site's seasonal nature and can plan their trips accordingly.
- Transport challenges -
Officials also highlighted accessibility issues affecting tourism growth. Travellers arriving at Ubon Ratchathani airport or the provincial bus terminal still face an additional one and a half to two-hour journey to reach major attractions. For solo visitors, car rental and taxi costs can be relatively expensive, potentially discouraging travel.
The area nevertheless boasts a range of natural and community-based attractions, including Pak Bong, the narrowest section of the Mekong River between Thailand and Laos at just 56 metres wide, a century-old rain tree, and community-run tourism services that provide transport, boat tours, local guides and traditional woven products, generating income for local residents.
Local agencies urged the government to accelerate the development of public transport links between Ubon Ratchathani city and tourist sites, improve directional signage and provide more accurate tourism information, particularly regarding seasonal attractions such as Sam Phan Bok.
According to Mr Phisut, stronger transport infrastructure, accurate public information and community-based tourism development alongside environmental conservation are crucial to securing Unesco recognition for Ubon Ratchathani Geopark.
Committee members said the initiative could help position Ubon Ratchathani as an internationally recognised destination for nature and geological tourism while creating income, spreading economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for local communities in a sustainable manner.
