Similan Islands Overnight Stay Ban Clarified Amid Budget Act Discussion

Bangkok: The Similan National Park Department has reaffirmed its stance on prohibiting overnight stays in the Similan Islands, a policy in place since 2018, following the recent discussions by the Special Committee on the 2027 Budget Act. This clarification comes in response to remarks made by Mr. Veera Teerapatranon, a committee member, who criticized the quality of services and accommodations based on his past experiences in a national park. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Veera's speech, delivered on August 5, 2026, highlighted various limitations he encountered, such as restricted electricity hours, uncomfortable bedding, and limited amenities. He suggested exploring private sector involvement in managing these areas to enhance service quality. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation addressed these issues, emphasizing the necessity of the overnight stay ban to mitigate environmental impacts and support sustainable tourism in the Similan Islands. The department clarified tha t since an official announcement in 2018, overnight stays have been restricted to one-day trips to preserve the islands' natural resources and minimize ecological disturbances. The Hu Yong guesthouse, once available to tourists, has been repurposed for staff use to support government missions and is no longer accessible to the public. In addressing service limitations, the department acknowledged the challenges posed by remote locations, such as restricted electricity and water supply, and highlighted ongoing efforts to manage these resources sustainably. The use of clean energy and regulated electricity schedules aim to balance human convenience with wildlife conservation. Regarding private sector involvement, the department is considering the feasibility of such partnerships under the National Parks Act B.E. 2562 (2019) while ensuring that any developments do not compromise conservation efforts or exceed the area's ecological capacity. The department expressed gratitude for the feedback and pledged to imp rove services for both staff and visitors, enhancing the overall experience while maintaining ecological integrity.