Evaluation and Geopark Perspective of the Geoheritage Resources in Chiang Mai Area, Northern Thailand

Abstract

Chiang Mai is located in the northern part of Thailand and is known as the most famous Thai Lanna cultural area. Based on its inventory, characterization, classification, and assessment, Chiang Mai has many outstanding landforms such as mountains, gorges, and waterfalls, as well as cliffs, river, and hot springs. There is also an old quarry, which could be suitably developed to geosites as well as geopark. This area can be divided into seven main geosites based on their location, identity, rock type, morphology, and geologic phenomena, including Doi Suthep Mountain, Ob Khan Gorge, Muang On Cave, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, Mae Kampong Waterfall, Grand Canyon Chiang Mai, and Mae Ping River. There is significant geodiversity in the region, which has evolved since the Pre-Cambrian (> 550 million years ago) to Quaternary (recent) periods. The national park always protects and preserves the biodiversity in the area, which includes many species of both flora and fauna, especially in the Mae Sa-Kog Ma Huai Khok Ma Biosphere Reserve. Prepared by scientists as well as the local guides, there are many basic geology and botany training courses for both students and general people. Furthermore, Thai Lanna and the hill tribe people in Chiang Mai have a culture and historical identity that is exhibited by temples and archaeological sites such as Doi Suthep Temple, Wiang Kum Kam Historic Site, and the Great Wall of Chiang Mai. The main goal of geotourism research is to evaluate the potential of geotourism and georesources in the context of geopark establishment. Understanding by the local people concerning the value and origin of their geologic monuments as well as the geopark concept is also significant. In addition, there are local as well as national advantages, especially for sustainable development.