The Ministry of Culture is advancing initiatives to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for Chiang Mai, aligning with the government’s strategy to boost Thai tourism and strengthen its global soft power.
This year, the ministry is implementing its strategy through four policies, three approaches, and two frameworks, all aimed at establishing Thailand as a leading destination for cultural, artistic, and religious tourism.
Plans are underway to enhance services at museums, historical sites, historical parks, national libraries, and cultural learning centers across the country.
Recent discussions with Nirat Pongsitthavorn, the governor of Chiang Mai, have focused on advancing the city’s candidacy for World Heritage recognition.
Chiang Mai was added to UNESCO’s Tentative List in 2015, and the nomination documents have been under development since then, with continuous updates to meet UNESCO’s requirements.
Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Minister of Culture, highlighted Chiang Mai’s importance as the cultural heart of the Lanna Kingdom, with a rich history spanning 730 years. This heritage includes iconic temples and landmarks, with Doi Suthep Temple serving as a key spiritual and cultural center.
The minister stated, “Provincial authorities and relevant agencies are working tirelessly to complete this report. The Ministry of Culture, through the Fine Arts Department, will collaborate with Chiang Mai Province to finalize and submit the documents to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre in Paris.”
“Success is achievable with the collective effort of all stakeholders, especially the people of Chiang Mai,” she added.
Thailand is currently home to five cultural World Heritage sites, and the ministry aims to ensure that each region in the country has at least one, recognizing their cultural and economic value.
This year, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat has also been nominated for UNESCO recognition, while Chiang Mai remains a top priority for the next potential World Heritage designation.
For Chiang Mai, the plan includes identifying key heritage zones and promoting historical landmarks such as Doi Suthep Temple, Wat Chedi Yot, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Umong.