The temporary ban was announced by Sarayuth Tansathien, chief of the Nopparat Thara – Phi Phi Islands National Park, today (Jan 22) after he inspected tourist activities at various islands in the Phi Phi area.
He said a large number of tourists were taken to climb cliffs on Phi Phi Don Island without being accompanied by trained staff.
Nine firms that do not provide climb supervisors have been ordered to stop selling these tours until they get proper licences to offer rock climbing. If they do not heed the warning, they will be charged with violations under the National Parks Act.
He said rock climbing was offered legally at Railey beach in Krabi, which is reachable from Koh Phi Phi Don by a ferry.
The park chief advised tourists to check the operator’s licence before purchasing a package tour.
Mr Sarayuth also said the park had collected B30 million in entrance fees since Jan 1 this year, a big jump over the previous year. It plans to spend more funds developing facilities to provide greater convenience for future visitors.
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