Cycling through Khorat Geopark:
Discovering the Wonders of Cuesta and Ecotourism
21 April 2025
Have you ever heard that Khorat (Nakhon Ratchasima Province) has mountains shaped like cleavers? This is no coincidence—it is a geological phenomenon called Cuesta, one of the wonders of Khorat Geopark which has been recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
The Uniqueness of Khorat Geopark
Khorat Geopark covers five districts in Nakhon Ratchasima Province: Mueang, Sikhio, Sung Noen, Kham Thale So, and Chaloem Phra Kiat. What sets it apart from other geoparks worldwide is its reputation as “The Land of Cuesta and Fossils,” where fossils from three major geological periods, namely the Cretaceous, Neogene, and Quaternary, have been discovered.
Renewable Energy Combined with Conservation
Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, operated by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), has played a key role in developing this area, guided by the principle of Social Enterprise (SE), which focuses on long-term sustainability and community growth. EGAT transformed the area around the upper reservoir of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, originally built for electricity generation, into a major viewpoint of Khorat Geopark. EGAT has also initiated the Khao Yai Thieng Cyclo-tourism Project since 2014, combining ecotourism with clean electricity generation from wind turbines and pumped storage hydropower.
“Developing the community alongside natural resource conservation”
Cycling to UNESCO Site Project
This project aims to support local employment through tourism. EGAT has recognized the potential of the upper reservoir and the wind farm as a tourist attraction due to the pleasant atmosphere, cooling breeze throughout the year, and the area’s suitability for exercise. When Khorat Geopark was designated a UNESCO Global Geopark for its geological significance, the upper reservoir area at Khao Yai Tieng and Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, located within the Khorat Geopark, were identified as areas with development potential. EGAT has then partnered with various sectors, including the community, government, and private enterprises to develop the area. With the professional management, the project has been well-received by tourists, generating local employment and sustainable income for the community. This has established a value chain that benefits social, economic, and environmental aspects.
Establishing a value chain that benefits social, economic, and environmental aspects
EGAT and the local community have worked together to develop a transparent and efficient management system by establishing a local committee to oversee the distribution of income from tourism activities. They have also developed training programs for local guides on Geotourism and have implemented safety and environmental management systems that meet international standards. Moreover, they have created a mechanism to ensure that the benefits are fairly distributed to the community.
The Joyful Adventure at Khao Yai Tieng
At Khao Yai Tieng, you will experience a unique tourism adventure. A highlight activity is cycling along a panoramic route that stretches across the beautiful cuesta ridge. The tourists will be able to appreciate the stunning natural scenery, including the wind farm and the upper reservoir of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, which stand straight on the mountaintop. They are sources of clean energy that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings.
Sustainable Community Development
When you visit Khao Yai Tieng, you are not only engaging in tourism, but also contributing to the sustainable development of the community. The income generated is used to improve the quality of life for the locals, such as providing scholarships for children and youth, supporting local cultural events, assisting with medical expenses for community members, and developing public infrastructure. Additionally, the Khao Yai Tieng Cyclo-tourism Project can support and assist neighboring communities.
Why Visit Here?
- Experience ecotourism that meets international standards
- Be part of sustainable community development
- Enjoy the beauty of nature alongside clean energy innovations
- Learn about ecotourism management
Systematic management through collaboration between the community and EGAT
The Cycling to UNESCO Site Project was initiated through the collaboration of all sectors. It not only fosters local economic growth alongside tourism, but also shows the power of collaboration, following the principles of social enterprise. The project began with a small initiative and has been systematically developed, enabling the community to generate income and give back to society, ultimately contributing to the sustainable improvement of the quality of life in the Khao Yai Thieng community.
