Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Prom Poolpat Reveals Behind-the-Scenes of Intense Confrontation Scenes, Praises Gant Natcha's Full-Commitment Performance

Actor Prom Poolpat reveals how intense confrontation scenes in drama "Omen of Mystery" unfold as his character Jiracin discovers he's been deceived about his sister's death, praising co-star Gant Natcha's commitment to their emotional excha

10 May Khaosod

Omen of Mystery continues to intensify, and Prom Poolpat keeps audiences in suspense. Although one revenge plot has been resolved, the game of vengeance is far from finished. Gant Natcha delivers impressive performances in fiery confrontation scenes that flow perfectly together.

The drama generates strong continuous momentum, keeping fans constantly discussing it. Omen of Mystery, produced by DaraVideo for Channel 7HD, grows more intense as the story progresses, with revenge plots, secrets, and truths gradually being revealed. It stars Thanwa Suriyajak and Gant-Natcha Ratchayangkanont.

Another character currently receiving significant attention is Jiracin, portrayed by Prom-Poolpat Atthapanya, an actor who masterfully conveys the emotions of pain, revenge, and guilt in ways that deeply resonate with viewers.

Particularly in an important scene where Jiracin discovers the truth that Banana (Gant Natcha) is not responsible for his sister Lakkhana's (Gant Menissa) death, but rather that Ameena (Chompoonut Phuengphol) and Dech (Somit Skulpongchai) deceived him with lies all along.

This scene has become another tear-jerking moment fans are discussing, as it marks the moment Jiracin confronts the truth and sincerely apologizes to Banana with genuine remorse.

Regarding this, Prom opened up about it: "The story is intensifying more and more now. Jiracin's plot is starting to unravel. He now knows that Banana isn't the one who caused his sister's death, but that he's been deceived all along. For me, this role is really fun because Jiracin loves his sister so much. His misunderstanding drives him to relentlessly seek revenge, like a time bomb ready to explode at any moment."

Prom also praised his collaboration with Gant-Natcha, saying she conveys emotions extremely well: "In this story, we're constantly clashing emotionally, but she's incredibly talented. She's bright and charming outside scenes, but the moment we step into character, she's immediately in the role. In confrontation scenes, she tells us to give our all. So when we send emotions out, she receives them and sends them back, making our scenes flow naturally. It's enjoyable to work with because we both commit fully."

Although many plot points are beginning to be revealed, the game of vengeance is not yet over, and many more secrets await viewers to uncover. Will Jiracin continue on his current path?

"I hope everyone keeps following to see which direction Jiracin will take. Will he continue helping Aunt Anong (Sutthida Kaemsan Na Ayuthaya) seek revenge against the Vanitchaya family? There are still many unresolved plot points in the drama," Prom said. "I want everyone to have fun and follow Omen of Mystery through to the conclusion together."

Follow the intense conclusion and solve the mystery together in "Omen of Mystery," airing every Wednesday and Thursday at 8:30 PM on Channel 7HD (TV Guide channel 35). Stay updated on all developments on Facebook, IG, X, TikTok, and YouTube: Ch7HD

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Patchr Naripattaband Highlights Thailand's Energy Transition Opportunity Under the 2025 Borrowing Decree

Thailand's energy sector restructuring under the 2025 borrowing decree presents an opportunity to modernize outdated infrastructure and attract foreign investment through competitive renewable energy pricing, avoiding Vietnam's costly mista

10 May Khaosod

On May 10, 2025, Patchr Naripattaband, a commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), discussed Thailand's impending energy sector restructuring under the 2025 Decree authorizing the Finance Ministry to borrow funds to address energy crisis impacts and drive the country's energy transition.

He emphasized that Thailand's energy prices are not higher than regional peers due to resource scarcity, but because infrastructure designed in a different era continues operating in a fundamentally changed world. Soaring electricity costs, volatile oil prices driven by geopolitics, and declining reliance on dwindling natural gas reserves in the Gulf of Thailand are clear warning signals that serious reform is overdue.

Thailand is not an energy-poor nation. Vietnam, starting its renewable journey only years ago, has already become Asia's largest solar producer, despite Thailand possessing superior resources and geographic advantages as a regional hub. The problem lies not with resources but with non-competitive structures.

Patchr noted that the world is competing fiercely for future industry investments. Lego announced a $1 billion investment to build the world's first carbon-neutral factory in Vietnam using 100% solar power—a clear signal that access to affordable clean energy has become a primary factor in multinational investment decisions.

Vietnam became Asia's largest solar producer in 2023, proving rapid energy transition is possible. However, success carries expensive lessons. Rapid expansion driven by subsidies exposed planning weaknesses and financial sustainability gaps. Vietnam Electricity (EVN) bears a heavy financial burden as electricity procurement costs surged from $4.5 billion in 2018 to $11.5 billion in 2023, while retail prices remained tightly controlled below actual costs, leaving EVN with losses exceeding $1 billion in 2023.

This is a trap Thailand must avoid. Vietnam's problem wasn't expanding renewables too quickly, but locking in high electricity purchase prices through long-term contracts while forcing EVN to sell below cost to contain public dissatisfaction. The difference accumulated as mounting EVN debt, eventually forcing the state to choose between major rate hikes or subsidizing losses with taxpayer funds. Either way, citizens bear the cost, merely postponed.

Vietnam is now transitioning from fixed Feed-in Tariff pricing—the root of EVN's crisis—to competitive bidding where clean energy producers offer the lowest rates to win contracts, rather than the state unilaterally setting prices. This follows India's successful model: solar prices plummeted from 9.72 cents per unit in 2014 to 3.04 cents in 2024—a 68% reduction in a decade—driven not just by better technology but by market competition pressing prices toward true costs.

Vietnam continues expanding Direct Power Purchase Agreements (DPP) as well.

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Regional

PM Cracks Down on Bang Tao Beach, Vows Zero Tolerance for Gangsters and Warns They'll Face Real Consequences

Prime Minister Anuthon Cracks down on illegal encroachments at Bang Tao Beach in Phuket, vowing zero tolerance for gangsters intimidating residents and pledging severe consequences for criminal elements operating in the area.

10 May Khaosod

At 11:20 AM on May 10, 2025, in Phuket Province, Prime Minister Anuthon Chanyaweerakul and the Minister of Natural Resources visited Bang Tao Beach in Thalang District to review reports on the prolonged illegal encroachment of public beach areas. The delegation included Deputy Minister Vorasit Leangprasit, PM Secretary Traisuli Triserngkul, and senior officials from the National Police and Phuket Provincial Government.

The Prime Minister said he came to the area with grave concern, as citizens had reported being threatened and intimidated by gangsters and criminal elements. He rejected labeling them as influential figures, stating they deserve no such title—calling them ordinary thugs instead. He warned that under his administration, there will be no room for such criminal intimidation of the public.

Anuthon declared that these elements are not truly influential and warned that if they show up, residents should report them to the subdistrict administrator, police, or local authorities. He pledged to use his full authority to protect and safeguard the public. He emphasized that solving the problem requires addressing root causes one by one, and that all parties must be honest about the fact that no legitimate land rights exist for illegal structures.

The PM noted that two years ago, he visited Bang Tao Beach and found that all unauthorized structures on government land were illegal. He stated that if business operators acknowledge this, the government can explore legitimate options for public use of the area. However, he made clear that any arrangement cannot restrict public access to the beach.

Anuthon expressed satisfaction that as Prime Minister, he now has greater authority to enforce policies across all ministries. He emphasized his top priority is eliminating influential crime gangs and mafia operations in Thailand. He warned that state officials will be the real mafia against criminal gangs, and urged citizens to have faith that gangster thugs will face serious consequences.

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Community

Fresh from the Temple – Grand Merit-Making Ceremony and Cornerstone Laying for Gratitude Chedi Kamphiro

On April 27, a cornerstone laying ceremony was held for the Gratitude Chedi Kamphiro at Wat Pa Buddharam in Kalasin Province, presided over by senior Buddhist monks and attended by government and media officials. The chedi was envisioned by Luang Pu Kamphir as a Buddhist memorial and permanent monument to the temple, also serving as a reliquary for his mother and family members. During the ceremony, a remarkable phenomenon was reported to occur at sunset, and participants received blessed amulets.

10 May Khaosod

On April 27, 2569, Chakraphad Saenphudet, head of the Northern News Center and chairman of the Online Media Club, participated in the cornerstone laying ceremony for the Gratitude Chedi Kamphiro at Wat Pa Buddharam in Ban Kham Gang, Lao Yai District, Kuchinara, Kalasin Province.

The ceremony was presided over by Luang Pu Kamphir Kamphiro of Wat Pa Buddharam, a disciple in the lineage of Luang Pu Hongsa Prommasanpanyo, along with M.R. Panidhan Jaroensroj and Anart Wattarangkul of Chiang Mai, honorary advisor to the Senate Committee on Tourism and Sports and advisor to the Online Media Club.

The construction of the Gratitude Chedi Kamphiro originated from Luang Pu Kamphir's vision to commemorate the Buddha and serve as a permanent sacred monument for Wat Pa Buddharam. Subsequently, it will serve as a memorial and reliquary housing the relics of his mother, who donated the land and founded Wat Pa Buddharam in service to Buddhism, as well as relics of his elder and younger brothers. This project continues Buddhist tradition and represents the significant contributions of Thanaporn and Songphorn Setthi Mongkol Nyan, advisors to the Online Media Club.

The cornerstone was blessed by Sommdet Phra Phutthajaew (Sanit Chawanpanyo), member of the Supreme Sangha Council, eastern regional chief abbot, and abbot of Wat Trimit Witthayaram Worawihan, who inscribed auspicious mantras as the primary blessing.

According to Buddhist belief, those who participate in building or pay respects to the chedi will be spared from hell for hundreds of lifetimes, be reborn in the celestial realm with strong health, beautiful appearance, and be beloved and respected, enjoy abundant prosperity and wisdom, and create important conditions for achieving Nirvana.

During the cornerstone laying ceremony and the consecration ritual led by Luang Pu Kamphir and numerous distinguished monks, a miraculous phenomenon occurred at sunset, creating great wonder among the participants.

Following the ceremony, Wat Pa Buddharam, under Luang Pu Kamphir's direction, distributed amulets and sacred objects to all participants.

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Community

New Amulet Release: Coins of Luang Pho Phrom from Wat Chong Khae

Wat Chong Khae has released commemorative coins honoring Luang Pho Phrom Thawaro, a revered meditation master who founded the temple in Nakhon Sawan and served as abbot for 54 years until 1971. The first-edition 1964 amulets feature copper

10 May Khaosod

Luang Pho Phrom Thawaro was a revered meditation master known for his compassionate nature and ascetic lifestyle. Born April 12, 1883, in Ayutthaya, he was ordained at Wat Khian Lai on March 15, 1903. He studied Khmer language and meditation techniques under senior monks before embarking on a long pilgrimage through Myanmar, visiting sacred sites including the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. Upon returning to Thailand through Mae La Mao in Tak province, heavy rains forced him to take shelter in a small cave at Khao Chong Khae in Tak Kli district, Nakhon Sawan. Impressed by his austere practice, local villagers invited him to establish a permanent monastery there, which became Wat Chong Khae. He served as the temple's first abbot for 54 years until retiring in 1971, passing away peacefully on January 30, 1975, at age 91. Among his many revered amulets, the first-edition coin from 1964 is particularly prized. Created by the temple's committee to fund the ordination hall, these oval-shaped amulets feature copper with gold plating or burnished copper finishes. The front depicts Luang Pho Phrom in meditation posture wearing monastic robes, with ancient characters above and his name inscribed below. The reverse bears the inscription 'Age 79, Vassa 59' along with the temple's name and location details. When acquiring these amulets, collectors should verify the clarity of the imagery and sharpness of the lettering.

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Community

The Sixth Realm of Merit – Luang Pho Wan Kusalachitta of Wat Khlong Khun, Phichit Province

Luang Pho Wan Kusalachitta, the revered former abbot of Wat Khlong Khun in Phichit Province, is remembered five years after his passing on May 11, 2564. He was widely respected as a leading Buddhist scholar and teacher who became famous throughout Thailand for his sacred amulets, talismans, and blessing ceremonies. Born in 2478, he served as abbot for decades and received a royal ecclesiastical title in 2545, earning deep reverence from devotees across the region.

10 May Khaosod

Monday, May 11, 2569 marks the fifth anniversary of the passing of Phra Kru Phipidhammatra, or Luang Pho Wan Kusalachitta, the former abbot of Wat Khlong Khun in Tapan Hin District, Phichit Province, who was revered as one of the leading Buddhist scholars and teachers of Phichit.

Born as Wan Pannet on September 2, 2478 at Khlong Khun Village in Tapan Hin District, Phichit, to parents Nai Meuk and Nang Khot Pannet, his childhood was spent immersed in rural nature with a calm and peaceful spirit. He regularly attended temple activities with his parents and helped them raise chickens and pigs according to his abilities.

As he grew older, he received his education at Wat Khlong Khun School, completing the fourth grade of compulsory education. He then left school to assist his family by raising cattle and buffalo, continuing the agricultural tradition passed down through generations of his family.

He was ordained as a Buddhist monk on July 7, 2499, with Phra Kru Phiset Thammaratana of Wat Had Tangmo as his preceptor, Phra Bai Tikaanon of Wat Phai Luang as his ordination witness, and Phra Wachajarn and Phra Thammathornsang of Wat Sai Longkhon as his instructors. He received the monastic name Kusalachitta, meaning "one with a mind rooted in merit and virtue."

After three years of monkhood, he gained the trust of villagers and the sangha, who entrusted him with training junior monks. In 2503, he was appointed acting abbot, and in 2505, he was officially installed as the abbot of Wat Khlong Khun, a position he held for many years.

He studied ancient Buddhist texts and sacred knowledge from various masters, including Luang Pu Chan of Wat Khlong Khun and Luang Pu Pho of Wat Wang Ma Nao. He became renowned for his exemplary conduct and strict observance of monastic discipline, earning the deep respect and reverence of people throughout Tapan Hin District and neighboring provinces.

His daily routine involved receiving visitors with warm hospitality, performing auspicious ceremonies, and blessing devotees. He provided various services including astrological consultations, blessing of new homes, ordination ceremonies, and daily ritual baths for people seeking blessings and good fortune.

In 2545, he was granted a royal title elevation to the rank of Phra Kru Sanyabaht Chani Aek with the ecclesiastical name Phra Kru Phipidhammatra.

His reputation grew extensively, and he became well-known throughout the region, receiving invitations to consecrate sacred objects and preside over important Buddhist ceremonies across the central provinces and throughout Thailand. The amulets and talismans he created were highly sought after, including Buddha images bearing his likeness and commemorative medals. He was also famous for his powerful magical objects such as sacred knives and protective talismans.

On March 21, 2564, due to age-related decline, he was admitted to Wang Sai Phoon Hospital for medical care. On Tuesday, May 11, 2564, he developed fever, low blood pressure, reduced oral intake, and diminished urine output, with an increasing lung infection. Tests revealed acidosis and electrolyte imbalance in his body.

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Community

Buddhist Amulet World – First Edition Luang Pho Charn Coins and Luang Pho Kuay Coins from Wat Nong Iduk

First-edition commemorative Buddhist amulet coins from Thai monasteries, including pieces from Wat Nong Iduk and other temples, were created to raise funds for hospitals and construction projects while honoring respected monks and spiritual

10 May Khaosod

This article explores several notable Buddhist amulets and their histories. It begins with a dharma message from Luang Pho Cha Subhadto of Wat Nong Pa Phong in Ubon Ratchathani, warning against reading medicine prescriptions while forgetting to take the medicine itself. The piece then details various commemorative coins created for charitable purposes, including the 'Udom Khwamsuk Edition' coins created in 1997 by Thangchai Udomkhwamsuk and Dr. Pisanu Raksagulkant to raise funds for Ban Suan Pa Tong Hospital in Chiang Mai. These coins were produced in multiple materials including gold, brass, silver, and copper, featuring the image of Luang Pu Kamphan Khosapanyo in meditation pose with nagas on the sides. The article also discusses coins of Luang Pho Charn Inmutoto from Wat Bang Bo in Samut Prakan, created in 1970, featuring a half-body frontal image with a distinctive protruding forehead mark. Additionally, it covers Luang Pho Kuay Chutinthro's coins from Wat Khositaram (Wat Ban Khaen) in Saiyok, Chai Nat, minted in 2016 in various metals to support monastery construction. Finally, the article mentions coins from Wat Phra Song in Nakhon Phanom, originally created in 1976 by a military development unit, featuring ancient Khmer art imagery of a 2,000-year-old sandstone Buddha statue.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Tragedy: 39-Year-Old Woman Killed by Wild Elephant While Mushroom Foraging in Phu Wua Forest

A 39-year-old woman from Ban Na Jan in Bueng Kan Province was fatally attacked by a wild elephant while mushroom foraging in Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary on May 10, 2025. Rescue officials recovered the victim's body and conducted an investigation, with authorities warning the public to exercise extreme caution when entering forest areas bordering wildlife sanctuaries.

10 May Khaosod

A tragedy struck when a 39-year-old woman from Ban Na Jan was fatally attacked by a wild elephant while foraging for mushrooms in Phu Wua Forest. Authorities are warning residents who venture into forest areas to take extra precautions.

At 7:50 AM on May 10, 2025, rescue volunteers from the Saang Sri Wilai Foundation received a report from community leaders in Ban Na Jan, Bung Khla District, Bueng Kan Province about a fatal elephant attack in the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary area, which borders the residential community. Rescue personnel from the Bung Khla station, along with volunteer responders, investigated the scene and found one female victim identified as Ms. Rungnapa (surname withheld), 39 years old, from Ban Na Jan.

According to interviews with family members, the victim had entered the forest to search for mushrooms with relatives when she encountered a wild elephant and was fatally attacked at the scene. Subsequently, rescue officials from Saang Sri Wilai, along with investigators from Bung Khla Police Station and emergency medical staff from Bung Khla Hospital, examined the scene and conducted a forensic autopsy before returning the body to Ban Na Jan for religious ceremonies.

Multiple rescue units from Saang Sri Wilai Foundation participated in the operation, including the headquarters and stations in Bung Khla, Sok Kam, and Muang Bueng Kan.

Authorities are urging residents who forage or conduct activities in forest areas adjacent to wildlife sanctuaries to exercise heightened caution, as large wild animals still inhabit these regions.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Sacred News: Luang Pho Tanchai Medal from Sri Maharaj Temple, Chonburi

This article honors Luang Pho Phiu Panantho (Phra Kru Pariyatti Varathorn), the deeply respected former abbot of Sri Maharaj Temple in Sri Racha, Chonburi, who served the monastic community for 51 years and left a lasting legacy through temple construction and spiritual guidance. Known for his selfless dedication and tireless development work, he earned the reverence of thousands of disciples from all social levels before passing away in 1994 at age 81. Commemorative medals, including the notable 'Luang Pho Tanchai Medal,' were created to honor his memory and spiritual contributions to the community.

10 May Khaosod

Phra Kru Pariyatti Varathorn, also known as Luang Pho Phiu Panantho, former abbot of Sri Maharaj Temple in Sri Racha District, Chonburi Province, was a venerable monk deeply respected by the local community. Originally named Phiu Ratanjinda, he was born on Thursday, March 24, 1913, in Semet Subdistrict, Muang District, Chonburi.

As a child, he studied at Putthayakam School at Khao Bang Thray Temple and completed junior secondary education. At age 15, he ordained as a novice, and at age 20, he took full monastic vows at Khao Bang Thray Temple under Somdej Phra Phutthakhos Acharya (Charoen Yanavaro) of Thepsirin Temple as his preceptor, along with other senior monks in supervisory roles.

He excelled in his monastic studies, earning top honors in Dharma studies and Pali scripture examination, eventually returning to Khao Bang Thray Temple where he taught Buddhist studies for many years. He was deeply grateful to his preceptor and faithfully followed his exemplary conduct.

In 1943, when the abbot position at Sri Maharaj Temple became vacant, his preceptor appointed him as abbot. He served in this role for 51 years, becoming a model for monks and laypeople alike and earning great respect throughout Sri Racha.

During his tenure, he received several ecclesiastical ranks and titles. He was known for his selfless dedication, wisdom, and development work. His major accomplishments included constructing the main ordination hall (costing 20 million baht and taking over a decade to complete) and numerous other temple buildings and structures at both Sri Maharaj Temple and Koh Loy Temple.

He had many disciples from all walks of life, including high-ranking government officials, military personnel, police, and ordinary citizens. Despite his advancing age, he remained diligent in both material development and spiritual reformation of the temple and its congregation.

As he approached 80 years old, his health deteriorated from overwork and lack of rest. In late 1991, he was admitted to Somdej Hospital in Sri Racha with emphysema. He passed away peacefully on January 18, 1994, at age 81 in his 60th year of monastic life.

To commemorate his legacy, devotees created sacred amulets, including the famous 'Luang Pho Tanchai Medal from Sri Maharaj Temple, First Edition,' created in 1970 to commemorate the casting of the main Buddha image. The medal features an oval shape with an attached loop and depicts Luang Pho Tanchai on the front in a meditation posture with the inscription 'Special Edition, Luang Pho Tanchai 1970' on the base. The reverse side displays a water yantra design surrounded by Khmer script. These medals were produced in three versions: 20 gold medals, silver medals, and others.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Lucky and Unlucky Days – Which Zodiac Signs Shouldn't Expect Windfalls and Which Ones Always Face Financial Loss

This daily horoscope for May 11, 2025 provides astrological predictions for all 12 zodiac signs. While signs like Aries and Cancer can expect positive financial developments, Sagittarius and Scorpio are warned to prepare for financial challenges and obstacles in their endeavors.

10 May Khaosod

Lucky and Unlucky Days Monday, May 11, 2025 Astrological Forecast

Aries You'll receive unexpected income today and pleasant news, letters, and messages from relatives. You'll benefit from your partners and enjoy advantages in your studies. However, existing work problems won't ease or find solutions.

Taurus You'll show increased interest in multiple areas of personal and social life. You may become more devoted to religious principles, the arts, or antiques, and will work on these pursuits vigorously. Romantic prospects face no obstacles, though "slow and steady wins the race."

Gemini Avoid sharing opinions with those who gossip about others. Despite previous laziness, you'll become surprisingly industrious today. People will greet you everywhere and request partnerships. Don't bring strange figurines into your home.

Cancer You'll gain benefits from new friends and relatives through negotiations and retail business. Various commercial activities will flourish. You may accept losses to build networks for future benefits, but avoid expecting windfall profits. Relatives will engage in activities with foreigners.

Leo When leaving home, remain alert and observant for anyone following you. Those who follow closely may be planning theft or harm. Be suspicious of things that seem too good. Don't pursue romance or invest too much affection during this period.

Virgo You'll find suitable housing. Household members may face harassment from thugs or stress. Avoid intoxication. Antique furniture often has good quality. This is ideal for antique enthusiasts.

Libra Be cautious with non-family members of the opposite sex. Partners may change behavior. Avoid processions without necessity. Don't overwork or compete excessively. Don't confront authority figures.

Scorpio You'll face financial delays and shortages. Unexpected expenses will arise suddenly. Financial disagreements with partners will resolve easily. Enemies may temporarily cease harming you.

Sagittarius Your endeavors face numerous obstacles. Help seekers disappear. Missed appointments and misunderstandings occur frequently. Travel in big cities is often delayed. Avoid wearing valuable jewelry. You constantly face financial loss.

Capricorn You'll pursue forgotten knowledge and may profit through unique methods. Income comes from currency exchange or online activities.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Diverse Tourism – Koh Similan's Ao Kuek Bay in Phang Nga Ranks Among World's Top 10 Beaches

Ao Kuek Bay in Phang Nga's Similan Islands has been ranked the world's 10th best beach for 2026 by global tourism experts, recognizing its pristine waters and strict conservation practices including daily visitor limits and mandatory coral-

10 May Khaosod

Thailand remains a destination that travelers worldwide must visit at least once in their lifetime, and the country's beautiful southern seas proved their worth again when Ao Kuek Bay in Similan Islands National Park, Phang Nga Province, was ranked 10th best beach in the world for 2026.

The ranking comes from "The World's 50 Best Beaches 2026," compiled by a global network of over 1,000 tourism experts whose votes were tallied on May 4, 2025. Artthapol Charoenchunsa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, explained that the ranking was determined by sea and nature tourism influencers, and that beyond Ao Kuek's striking beauty, the ranking also considered conservation efforts and area management practices.

"This success reflects Thailand's pride and demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive management measures," said Artthapol. "These include limiting visitor numbers according to carrying capacity, seasonal resource restoration closures, and strict waste management, resulting in high levels of integrity in marine and coastal ecosystems."

The director-general noted that the park limits daily visitors to Ao Kuek Bay to no more than 1,700 people. Around the bay, there are four deep diving spots: Donald Duck Bay, Turtle Rock, Turtle Gully, and Snapper Alley, all subject to strict diving regulations and conservation measures. Divers must hold an Advanced certification and tour operators must employ park-registered Dive Masters. Sunscreen must be coral-safe, and tourists must take all waste back with them or dispose only of easily biodegradable items.

About 80% of current visitors are foreigners who typically book through tour operators, giving tour businesses a critical role in enforcing visitor limits and educating tourists about regulations. Artthapol emphasized that this success serves as a model for upgrading national parks nationwide to promote Thailand's sustainable conservation tourism.

According to Similan Islands National Park's Facebook page, "Similan" comes from the Malay word meaning "nine" and consists of nine islands arranged north to south: Ko Huuyong, Ko Payang, Ko Payran, Ko Meang, Ko Ha, Ko Hok, Ko Payu, Ko Similan, and Ko Bangu. Later, Koh Tachai and Koh Bon were added, bringing the total to 11 islands.

Ao Kuek Bay, located on Koh Similan (Island Eight) about 70 kilometers offshore, is the largest island in the archipelago. Its distinctive features include pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear water revealing the sandy bottom and fish schools below, and colors that shift from light blue near the shore to deep blue in deeper waters. The bay's northern end features the iconic "Sailing Rock" landmark, a massive boulder perched on a cliff to the left of the bay.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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