Khlung-Kraben Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Chanthaburi Province is located just 15 kilometers from Tha Mai District. About 40 years ago, this area was heavily encroached upon and its forests were severely degraded. Today, reforestation efforts have restored the area with replacement trees, revitalizing the ecosystem. The sanctuary features four types of forests coexisting in the same area: dry evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest, beach forest, and mangrove forest. Additionally, a nature trail has been established, passing scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic views of Chao Lao Beach and Khaem Nu Creek, with a walking duration of approximately one hour.

 

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives’ announcement in 1999, Khlung-Kraben Bay Wildlife Sanctuary was designated as an area under the operation of the Khlung-Kraben Bay Development Study Center under the Royal Initiative. The center manages approximately 11,370 rai of land, encompassing dry evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest, beach forest, and mangrove forest, covering Khlong Khut and Ramphan Subdistricts of Tha Mai District, as well as Sanam Chai Subdistrict of Na Yai Am District, Chanthaburi Province. The center conducts research to develop sustainable management practices suitable for the coastal areas of Chanthaburi and provides opportunities for the public to study the natural environment, understand the mangrove ecosystem, and learn to use natural resources efficiently.

 

One of the center’s key projects is the Khlung-Kraben Bay Mangrove Nature Study Bridge, located opposite the development center. The 1,600-meter trail takes approximately 30–45 minutes to complete and features interpretive signs along the route, highlighting natural food sources and medicinal plants essential for surrounding communities. Through systematic budget management, forest restoration, and collaboration with local communities and organizations, the previously degraded forests have recovered, and endangered wildlife such as mouse deer and barking deer have increased in number.

 

The conservation and restoration efforts at Khlung-Kraben Bay Wildlife Sanctuary have positively impacted the local ecosystem, the livelihoods of nearby residents, and the community’s attitudes toward protecting natural resources. Conservation clubs, including the Kraben Conservation Club, Coral Conservation Club, and Environmental Protection Villages, have been established to ensure ongoing protection. These achievements led to the sanctuary receiving the “Outstanding Wildlife Management and Conservation Award” in 2006, demonstrating its significance in conservation, research, and community engagement.

 

Thanks to these efforts, visitors not only experience the natural beauty and wildlife but also gain insight into ecosystems and sustainable resource use. Moreover, the project inspires neighboring communities to recognize the value of nature and actively participate in its preservation, making Khlung-Kraben Bay Wildlife Sanctuary a prominent example of forest restoration and coastal ecosystem development in Thailand.