Thailand’s Mu Koh Similan National Park (Similan Islands) will be closing for 5 months again this year, beginning on May 16, and will reopen on October 14. These months coincide with the monsoon season, which makes boat travel dangerous and beach and hiking days quite unpleasant, but the closing is happening for an even more important reason: ecological, infrastructure and reef restoration.

photo courtesy of www.similan-islands.com/

The Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters, sea turtles and dramatic rock formations, are among Thailand’s most prized natural destinations but are under increasing pressure from tourism. The fragile ecosystem has suffered greatly from mass tourism and

Conservationists have long warned that the fragile marine ecosystem is being pushed to the brink by mass tourism, waste mismanagement, and lax enforcement of rules.

Personally, I think this is a very smart move, and one that I could see being adopted in other fragile parts of the world. What do you all think? Let us know in the comments below!

And to learn more about this beautiful location, visit the official website of the Mu Ko Similan National Park of Thailand.