NAKHON SI THAMMARAT — 26 July 2026, The Fine Arts Department has opened a permanent exhibition on Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat, following its recognition as Thailand’s sixth cultural World Heritage site, while Chiang Mai is being eyed as the country’s next potential addition in 2027.
Phanombut Chandrachoti, director-general of the Fine Arts Department, said Wat Phra Mahathat had put Thailand in the global spotlight as the country’s sixth cultural World Heritage site.
He said the recognition was expected to attract a surge of Thai and foreign tourists, bringing significant economic benefits to the area.
The Fine Arts Department will continue working with Nakhon Si Thammarat authorities to conserve and restore Wat Phra Mahathat and introduce measures to ensure its preservation meets UNESCO requirements.
Any new construction, including shops and other facilities, must also be carefully planned to ensure it does not diminish the site’s cultural value, he said.
“I would like to congratulate the people of Nakhon Si Thammarat and all Thais. This is the third consecutive year that we have received World Heritage recognition,” Phanombut said.
“Hopefully, we will have another piece of good news in 2027.”
Under the proposed timeline, Chiang Mai is expected to be submitted for consideration after being included on UNESCO’s Tentative List since 2015.
Phanombut said several other Thai sites have also been placed on the Tentative List and could potentially be considered in the future.
He expressed hope that the World Heritage recognition would bring more visitors to Wat Phra Mahathat and encourage everyone to help preserve the temple and its sacred relics for future generations.
