Fifteen new dark sky sites named for astrotourism in Thailand
Fifteen sites were chosen from 40 applicants for appropriate lighting management, dark skies and the potential to accommodate visitors and support local tourism.
- Thailand has named 15 new locations as official dark sky conservation areas for 2026 to promote astrotourism.
- The initiative is a collaboration between the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) as part of the "Amazing Dark Sky in Thailand" project.
- The new sites were selected for managing light pollution effectively, making them suitable for astronomical observation, and for their potential to accommodate tourists.
- The 15 locations are categorized as Dark Sky Parks, Communities, Properties, and Suburbs, and include national parks, resorts, and a science park.
The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Public Organisation), or NARIT, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have announced 15 new stargazing locations registered as dark sky conservation areas in Thailand for 2026, paving the way for a growing form of astrotourism worldwide.
The Amazing Dark Sky in Thailand project was launched to raise public awareness of the effects of light pollution, promote energy conservation and encourage appropriate lighting practices while reducing the impact on ecosystems.
A tangible result is the return of truly dark skies, which are becoming new destinations and supporting creative tourism that draws both stargazers and other tourists to rural areas and local communities.
This year, 40 sites across the country applied to join the project.
NARIT selected 15 that manage lighting appropriately, keeping their skies dark enough for astronomical observation.
The sites also have the potential to accommodate visitors and encourage local astrotourism activities, ranging from night-time stargazing to development as new local tourism landmarks.
The 15 locations registered as dark sky conservation areas in Thailand for 2026 under Amazing Dark Sky in Thailand Season 5 are:
Dark Sky Park
- Hat Chom Tawan, Thap Lan National Park, Prachin Buri
- Khun Sathan National Park, Nan
- Nam Phong National Park, Khon Kaen
- Phu Pha Thoep National Park, Mukdahan
- Phu Ruea National Park, Loei
- Dark Sky Communities
- Non Khan Mak (Bo Phan Khan area), Roi Et
Dark Sky Properties
- Koh Phaluai Beach Bungalow, Surat Thani
- Khun Khao Tamnan Phrai Resort, Ratchaburi
- Yatika Boutique, Chiang Mai
- Plai Laem Camp, Songkhla
- Pa Ngam Camp, Prachin Buri
- Suan Theppana, Chaiyaphum
- Serene Ville Mae Rim Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai
- Sompor Village, Chiang Mai
Dark Sky Suburbs
- King Mongkut Memorial Park of Science and Technology at Wa Ko, Prachuap Khiri Khan
NARIT has invited tourists and stargazing enthusiasts to experience star-filled skies at dark sky conservation areas across the country.
Those interested can find a nearby stargazing location or apply to have a site registered as a dark sky conservation area in Thailand at https://darksky.narit.or.th/.
