Thailand’s Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary in Chaiyaphum, Nam Nao National Park in Phetchabun and Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei were declared ASEAN heritage parks at the ASEAN senior environmental officials meeting in Bogor, Indonesia, on August 1st.

This brings the number of ASEAN heritage parks in Thailand to nine. They are Khao Yai, Tarutao and Surin Islands national parks, the Similan Islands and Phang-nga bay, Kaeng Krachan forest complex, which includes Kaeng Krachan National Park, Kui Buri National Park and Phachi River Wildlife Sanctuary, Hat Chao Mai National Park, the Libong Islands non hunting area and Ang Thong Islands and Khao Sok national parks.

About 96.65% of the Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary and Nam Nao National Park are forested, rich in bio diversity and home to many rare plant and wildlife species, such as the clouded tiger marbled cat.

Phu Kradueng National Park is 98% forested and is also home to many rare plant and wildlife species, such as red and white roses, serows, yellow turtles, spectacled langur and white-handed gibbons. It highest elevation is 1,316 metres above sea level, at Khao Moei.