The preliminary geotourism study in Phetcahbun Province, Thailand

Abstract

Phetchabun Province is situated in the lower northern region of Thailand. This province has many natural attractions with interesting cultures and traditions as a popular tourism destination. The geological signification of this area is in the collision zone between Shan-Thai plate and Indochina plate. Resulting in many outstanding geological diversities. This research focuses on geological features or geosites as natural tourist attractions. Sixteen geosites were selected in Phetchabun Province consisting of waterfalls, potholes, cliffs, caves, columnar jointing, fossils localities, and many scenic viewpoints arising from tectonic plate evolution, weathering and erosion. Guidelines for geotourism development were analyzed. This is the first geotourism research study in this area, and presents geological data, recommended travel routes, an overview of the current situation and possible problems of promoting geosites as tourist attractions. Sustainable development of geotourism in Phetchabun Province will provide employment opportunities for the local population, respond to the currently increasing global ecotourism sector and increase geopark potential to be a national geopark.