consists of the main natural forest which includes evergreen forest, swamp forest and
mangrove forest. These areas should be considered in order to develop the successful
ecotourism in Surat Thani province.
Based on the results of the analysis, the areas of highly suitable for ecotourism are
mostly located in the park which involves the most prominent in the study area. The
characteristic of this area is endowed with lush green forests, wildlife sanctuary as well
as rich cultural heritage. It could serve as main ecotourism attractions but with the use
of certain limitations and guidelines. According to some limitation of those areas such
as containing outstanding natural resources or heritages, therefore the areas should be
preserved, unless the existing ecotourism resources in sensitive areas are still usable.
The total preserved areas are 4,995.43 ha (or 0.40 %) of total areas. They are mainly
located at the districts of Khiriratnikom and Ban Nasan. Therefore, these areas can be
used for education as well as conservation, in order to protect and preserve
environmental condition in ecotourism areas. Secondly, the areas of moderately suitable
for ecotourism are mainly located at the districts of Ban Takhun and Phanom. It is
largely free from urban settlements with a unique natural resources and a great tourism
potential. The total areas are 361,525.77 ha (or 28.90 %). Most of which are located in
the protected areas with active recreation as boating, park and natural zoological park.
Therefore, these areas can still be considered as moderately attractions for ecotourism.
While, the area of marginally suitable for ecotourism involves the areas are validating
for usage. They are the most appropriate areas for development. The approximated
areas of marginally suitable are 873,507.55 ha (or 33.52 %) of total areas. The most
appropriate areas are mainly located in urban area at Punpin, Karnjanadit and Tha