Thai Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation's (DNP) income has increased by almost 50% to THB2.2 billion ($66.36 million) in the fiscal year 2024.

As reported by the Bangkok Post, Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi in Krabi brought in the largest revenue of THB629 million, and the most popular park is Khao Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima.

Attapon Charoenchansa, DNP director-general, said the department plans to open more tourist attractions to stimulate the economy, including new nature study trails, more botanical gardens and some wildlife sanctuaries.

He said the 133 national parks and nine forest parks generated a total revenue of THB2.2 billion from October 1 last year to September 30 this year, up from THB1.4 billion the previous year, or a 49.9% increase. The total number of tourists to the parks was 18.6 million (12.6 million Thai and 5.9 million foreign tourists), a 17.7% increase from fiscal year 2023's 15.8 million tourists.

Attapon said DNP expects its revenue to reach 2.4 billion baht in the fiscal year 2025 and will upgrade infrastructure and facilities to take greater tourist numbers.

The DNP will also allow travellers to book accommodation inside national parks 60 days in advance, instead of the current 30 days. It will provide online tickets to six popular parks: Khao Yai National Park, Inthanon National Park, Ao Phangnga National Park, Mu Koh Similan National Park, Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, and Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi.

The e-ticket sales system for all national parks would be ready within the next two years, the official added.