Fancy catching the sunrise from the iconic Pha Nok Aen viewpoint at Phu Kradueng National Park? Well, by 2027, you might be able to do so in style—riding a cable car that whisks you up to this majestic location nestled in Loei province in northeastern Thailand. It’s been a marathon journey, more than four decades in the making, and despite the long-standing debate between conservationists and the government, the dream of a cable car is inching closer to reality!
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, determined to see this through, is confident that 2027 will be the year we see not just nature enthusiasts but also curious tourists hopping aboard the new cable car. Centered around the notion of blending accessibility with sustainability, the new transport will be able to move up to 5,000 folks daily. This careful cap is a number meticulously designed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, to ensure we leave Mother Nature unruffled.
The idea of resurrecting this cable car plan wasn’t without its heated debates. Many voices, especially those of environmentalists, have continually echoed concerns. Their meritorious stand questions whether the boost in tourism bucks outweighs potential disturbances to the tranquil natural environment. However, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is resolute that his term will see its fruition, as all significant stakeholders have nodded in consensus after extensive hearings. Cheers to progress!
A neat little pile of 28 million baht has been earmarked for the planning and designing phase, courtesy of Dasta (Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration), who believe they can pull off the initial works with just a tad over 25 million. The plan is for a 4.5-kilometer route featuring 32 cars with cozy room for eight enthusiastic travelers each.
According to the laid-out blueprint, Dasta envisions wrapping up design and environmental assessment by March 2026. Post rigorous approvals from the National Environmental Board and the cabinet, construction is scheduled to kick-off by August 2026, with an impressive outlay nestled at 1 billion baht. If plans hold steady, come 2027, the skies over Phu Kradueng will witness an engineering marvel, without as much as a hiccup to the existing beloved walking trails, offering an alternative and accessible adventure for all.
This sprightly new feature is geared not only to tempt in more day trippers to Phu Kradueng—but on the bright side, it might help park management breathe a tad easier, alleviating overnight visitor congestion. Currently, Phu Kradueng lures in between 60,000 to 70,000 adventurous souls annually, a figure that the cable car’s novelty will likely bolster.
However, as Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, the steersman general at Dasta puts it, soaring visitor numbers need to be tampered with thoughtful stewardship—a firm cap of 5,000 souls daily to hush the potential clamor of overtourism. Atop the enchanting plateau, the Department of National Parks governs just a snug helping of accommodation options; we’re talking 9 to 10 housing units mingled with enough elbow room for a rambunctious crowd of 3,200 tents.
Foot of the hill, where eager journeys commence, sports a chic makeover under Dasta’s watchful eye—tourism centers primed for knowledge swapping and cozy commercial nooks prepped for memorabilia hunting. And, oh, an extra juicy tidbit—this cable car won’t be whirring through all months, rather it’ll take seasonal breaks as a courteous nod allowing the lavish greenery to recuperate. Nature always did enjoy a breather, didn’t it?
Honestly, this cable car idea sounds like a disaster for the environment. It’s just another way to commercialize nature!
But think about the accessibility it brings! More people can enjoy the beauty that is Phu Kradueng without needing a fitness level akin to a mountain goat.
Accessibility is great, but not at the cost of disturbing wildlife habitats. We need to find a balance.
I’m with GreenWarrior. Once people have a taste of this convenience, more such projects will likely follow, paving over nature’s solitude with concrete.
Exactly, we have to be cautious of opening Pandora’s box.
How much will a ride cost? I hope it’s affordable for everyone and not just for rich tourists.
I bet there will be different price tiers for locals versus tourists. It’s a strategy many parks use these days.
I trust Dasta to handle this responsibly. Thailand has done wonders with sustainable tourism before. Let’s give this a chance.
This so-called ‘sustainable’ project is laughable. I can’t believe people think adding a mechanical structure helps conservation in any way.
Have you seen the details on their environmental assessments? They’re doing their due diligence to limit impacts.
How will this affect the current hiking trails? I love the challenge of getting to the top on foot!
Apparently, the trails won’t be affected. It’s more of an alternative for those who’re unable to hike.
Just imagine the view from that cable car! I think it’s a magnificent way to see the park from above.
What about the carbon footprint of all these operations? Sustainability goes beyond managing visitors.
You have a point, but modern technologies can drastically cut emissions compared to older ones.
I hope they truly commit to using green technology then. The last thing we need is more empty promises.
I’ve been to parks that became a lot more enjoyable and safe due to such transport options. Here’s to hoping this becomes a model project!
Agreed, but preservation efforts must take precedence for this to truly be a model project.
No doubt! Conservation and tourism should always go hand in hand.
Are there any plans for paths from the cable car to disperse people evenly? Preventing overcrowding is crucial to maintaining the site’s charm.
I hope this brings more business to local communities. We could really use a boost post-pandemic.
I can’t wait until this is up and running. The tourism board should coordinate with airline companies. More flights mean more visitors to feed the economy!
Has anyone considered emergency services access to the cable car route? Safety first!