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The Khorat UNESCO Global Geopark was certified by UNESCO on May 24, 2023, making it the second Global Geopark in Thailand and establishing Nakhon Ratchasima as the fourth city in the world to have three UNESCO-recognized heritage sites. The Geopark covers the Lam Takhong River Basin, spanning five districts: Sikhio, Sung Noen, Kham Thale So, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima, and Chaloem Phra Kiat.
Geological Value:
Khorat’s Questas: A unique and prominent geological feature of Khorat, the cuestas are asymmetrical ridges formed by the uplifting of the Earth's crust in the past. They serve as a significant geological evidence of the planet's historical changes, with one side of the hill being steep and the other gently sloping, resembling a knife's edge.
Fossils: This area is globally renowned as "The City of Fossils" due to the discovery of important fossils from three major epochs: the Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Quaternary periods. Notably, the area is rich in petrified wood, ancient elephant fossils, and various dinosaur species. These findings provide a deep understanding of the geological history and the evolution of life in the region.
Connection to Livelihood: The Geopark's value extends beyond its geology. It is intertwined with the local culture and way of life, where people have utilized natural resources. For instance, the clay from the cuestas is used for pottery, and various activities reflect the close relationship between the local communities and their geological environment.
Management and Tourism:
The Khorat UNESCO Global Geopark emphasizes sustainable management, with local communities playing a key role in conservation and development as a geologically-focused tourist destination. Museums and learning centers, such as the Petrified Wood Museum and Northeastern Fossil Resources, have been established to serve as educational resources for both tourists and students, making the Khorat Geopark a vital research and tourism hub.