The park's landscape is characterized by its islands, which have steep, sheer sides. This topography has contributed to the area becoming a sought-after tourist destination.[4] In addition to its geological features, Ao Phang Nga National Park is significant for its environmental conservation efforts. It is recognized for protecting the largest expanse of native mangrove forest remaining in Thailand. [2]
Rivers and mangrove forest at sunset
History
Ao Phang Nga National Park was established by a royal decree, as documented in the Royal Gazette under proclamation number 98, section 64, dated 29 April 1981. The park spans an area of approximately 250,000 rai, equivalent to around 400 square kilometres (150 sq mi).[5]
Environment
In response to the environmental impacts of mass tourism, Fodor's Travel included Ao Phang Nga National Park in their "No List" for 2018. This inclusion was part of a recommendation for tourists to temporarily avoid visiting the park. The intent behind this recommendation was to facilitate environmental recovery and mitigate the effects of over-tourism, which was described as 'loving the park to death.'[6]
Geology
The mountain range within the region, according to geological studies, is believed to have originated in the period spanning from the Cretaceous to the early Tertiary, approximately 136 to 36 million years ago. This formation is attributed to structural geological features, notably faults, including the 'Khlong Marui fault' and 'Phang Nga fault.' The region also exhibits a combination of sedimentary and metamorphic rock formations, particularly evident in the limestone mountains. Over time, these geological changes have led to the formation of numerous caves and holes in the natural landscape.
In 1987, archaeological research at Khao Tao within the Phang Nga Bay National Park uncovered prehistoric human burial sites, providing evidence of early human habitation in the area. Further studies, including the examination of shell fossils in caves and on islands within Phang Nga Bay, indicate significant fluctuations in sea levels. During the Pleistocene and early Holocene epochs, around 11,000 years ago, sea levels were considerably lower due to the Ice Age. The current islands, mostly upland rocky mountains at that time, witnessed a gradual rise in sea level around 7,500 to 8,500 years ago, reaching approximately 4.5 meters above the present level. Subsequent fluctuations occurred, with sea levels rising and falling interchangeably around 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. Approximately 2,700 to 3,700 years ago, the sea level stabilized but remained 1.5 to 2.5 meters higher than today. Around 1,500 years ago, the sea level was about 1.5 meters higher than current levels.
Flora and Fauna
Ao Phang-nga National Park is home to one of Thailand's largest and most well-preserved mangrove forests.[7] This ecosystem plays a crucial role in the coastal environment, serving as a natural barrier against storms and as a vital breeding ground for various marine species.
A 1991 inventory of the park's wildlife identified 206 species, including 17 mammal species, 88 bird species, 18 reptile species, 3 amphibian species, 24 fish species, and 45 other marine animals. Notably, the lar gibbon and serow once found in the area, are now extinct in the region.
Among the endangered mammal species in Ao Phang-nga are the smooth-coated otter, leaf monkeys, smoky leaf monkeys, and the crab-eating macaque.[7] Birdlife in the park includes the brahminy kite, pacific reef heron, white-bellied sea eagle, various species of kingfishers, the asian dowitcher, and the edible-nest swiftlet.
Reptiles and amphibians, such as mangroves snakes, rhacophoridae frogs, and saltwater frogs, are also present in this diverse habitat.[7]
