Si Thep's UNESCO Status: A Triumph for Thai Heritage

Si Thep's UNESCO Status: A Triumph for Thai Heritage

By Author

Published on September 28, 2023

Hey, fellow adventurers! Get ready to embark on a journey through time and history as we introduce you to Thailand's latest UNESCO World Heritage Site, Si Thep. Located about 340 kilometres north of bustling Bangkok, in the serene Phetchabun province, Si Thep is a true treasure waiting to be explored.

UNESCO Recognition and Unique Features:

Si Thep has officially earned its spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list, adding to Thailand's impressive collection of seven World Heritage Sites. Its full name, "The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments," hints at the rich history that unfolds within its boundaries.

Imagine a twin-town site, with an Inner and Outer Town encircled by majestic moats, the imposing Khao Klang Nok ancient monument, and the enigmatic Khao Thamorrat Cave ancient monument. Si Thep isn't just a destination; it's a portal to an ancient world where history and natural beauty collide.

A Journey into the Past:

The roots of Si Thep trace back to the Dvaravati period, spanning from the 6th to the 11th century CE. During these ancient times, Si Thep thrived as a bustling regional trading hub. It's here that the foundations of a unique regional culture and art were laid, a testament to the vibrant history of this town.

Archaeological Marvels:

For history enthusiasts, Si Thep is a goldmine. The well-preserved archaeological sites house ancient ruins, temples, and statues that have been meticulously restored and maintained. As you explore these sites, marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures, showcasing the incredible skill and creativity of the artisans from centuries past.

Historical Significance:

Si Thep once stood as one of the largest city-states in central Thailand. However, as history evolved, cities like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya emerged as more influential cultural centres, eventually leading to Si Thep's abandonment. Much of its development and cultural blossoming took place between the 8th and 10th centuries CE, a period coinciding with Buddhism's zenith.

Khao Khlang Nai and Khao Khlang Nok:

Two prominent features within Si Thep are the historic Buddhist sanctuaries, Khao Khlang Nai and Khao Khlang Nok. Khao Khlang Nai's central stupa is a fine example of Dvaravati architectural style, dating back to the 6th–7th century CE. Meanwhile, Khao Khlang Nok, though it may appear as a simple laterite mound today, once held great historical significance in the 8th–9th century CE.

Easy Access and Tips for Visitors:

Good news for travellers – Si Thep is easily accessible from major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. When planning your visit, consider the cooler months between November and February for a more comfortable experience. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and a hat, and engage with the friendly locals who often have captivating stories to share.

Preserving Si Thep's Legacy:

With its newfound UNESCO status, Si Thep's preservation becomes a global responsibility. As you explore this ancient town, remember to be a responsible traveller – leave no trace and respect the environment and cultural sites.

Si Thep isn't just another destination; it's a time machine that allows you to step back in history. It's a chance to connect with a culture and heritage that has left an indelible mark on Thailand's past. So, when you find yourself in this beautiful country, make sure Si Thep is on your must-visit list. Prepare to be awed, inspired, and transported through the annals of time.

Image Source: Virtual Historical Park, Tourism Thailand


Green signal for ₹136cr city-side hub at Thiruvananthapuram airport

Green signal for ₹136cr city-side hub at Thiruvananthapuram airport

By Hariharan U

Published on September 15, 2025

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is moving closer to a major transformation, with the Union environment ministry’s expert appraisal committee (EAC) recommending environmental clearance for a ₹136 crore city-side development project. The initiative, planned by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) at Chackai within the airport grounds, aims to reshape the capital city’s gateway into a modern hospitality and commercial hub.

The project will feature a 240-room luxury hotel, expansive food and beverage areas with over 600 seats, and world-class infrastructure across nearly 34,000 sq. m. Spread over two basements, a ground floor and four upper floors, the complex will rise up to 23 metres. Once clearances are finalized, the hotel is expected to come under a global five-star brand such as Marriott, Hilton or Intercontinental.

This city-side facility is part of the larger terminal expansion plan, "Project Anantha" The project faced delays after the state environment impact assessment authority (SEIAA) sought changes in the basement design, citing environmental risks. The revised proposal has now cleared hurdles, and with pending cases moved to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the project is finally back on track.

Construction could begin within three months. Alongside enhancing airport facilities, the project is expected to generate around 300 direct jobs and nearly 900 indirect employment opportunities. “The project will not just address rising accommodation needs but also give a strong push to Kerala’s hospitality sector,” said a source close to the airport.

The EAC has attached strict environmental safeguards. Construction will rely on recycled water and rainwater harvesting. Once operational, the complex will need 318 KLD of water, with nearly half supplied by an in-house sewage treatment plant. Solid waste, expected at 418 kg daily, will be processed sustainably—biodegradable waste will be converted on-site while non-biodegradable material will be handed over to authorized vendors.

Other eco-measures include rooftop rainwater harvesting tanks, a 20% reduction target in energy use, and transplantation of 40 trees within the airport boundary. The land, currently serving as open parking, was allocated to AAHL under a 50-year concession agreement signed in 2021 with the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The EAC has clarified that the site is free from ecologically sensitive zones, coastal regulation restrictions or protected habitats.

Thiruvananthapuram airport is already handling record traffic, with nearly 4.9 million passengers between April 2024 and March 2025, and this new city-side development is expected to further elevate the airport’s standing as a gateway to Kerala.


Air India Group Adopts SITA Tech to Boost Efficiency and Cut Emissions

Air India Group Adopts SITA Tech to Boost Efficiency and Cut Emissions

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 15, 2025

Air India Group has taken a major step in its modernization journey by deploying SITA OptiFlight and eWAS, two advanced data-driven digital solutions designed to improve flight efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The rollout is aimed at tackling rising fuel costs and the growing need to reduce carbon emissions, challenges faced by airlines worldwide.

The new technology is now active across the Air India Airbus A320 fleet and the Air India Express Boeing 737 fleet, covering both domestic and international routes. Deployment on Air India’s widebody fleet is set to follow. Together, the solutions are expected to help the group cut carbon emissions by 35,000 tons annually.

“As the aviation industry navigates growing regulatory and environmental pressure, the need for intelligent, predictive solutions has never been more critical,” said Sumesh Patel, President, Asia Pacific at SITA. “Air India’s deployment of SITA OptiFlight® and eWAS is a strong example of how smart digital technologies can cut emissions, save fuel, and unlock real operational value across every flight.”

Basil Kwauk, Chief Operations Officer, Air India, added: “Sustainability and efficiency are core to our transformation into a world-class airline. With SITA OptiFlight and SITA eWAS, we’re taking meaningful steps to modernize our operations, reduce our carbon footprint.”

SITA OptiFlight® uses historical flight data, aircraft-specific performance models, and 4D weather forecasts to optimize key flight phases. At its core is OptiClimb, which provides pilots with customized climb-out schedules tailored to each aircraft. This reduces fuel burn during one of the most energy-intensive stages of flight while maintaining safety and performance.

SITA eWAS complements this by providing real-time weather updates and predictive forecasting, enabling pilots to avoid turbulence, reroute efficiently, and make informed in-flight decisions. Together, these solutions strengthen operational performance while supporting Air India’s sustainability goals.

With these tools, SITA continues to expand its footprint in Indian aviation, helping carriers achieve operational resilience, cost efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.


Historic Moment: Mizoram Joins India’s Railway Map with Bairabi–Sairang Line

Historic Moment: Mizoram Joins India’s Railway Map with Bairabi–Sairang Line

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 13, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the 51.28 km-long Bairabi–Sairang railway line in Mizoram on September 13, marking a historic moment for the northeastern state. With this, Mizoram will be connected to Kolkata by train for the first time, significantly improving accessibility and connectivity.

The Kolkata–Sairang–Kolkata express train will operate three times a week, providing a vital link between the state capital and West Bengal. In addition, the Prime Minister will also flag off two more services, a weekly Rajdhani Express to Anand Vihar and a daily express train to Guwahati, officially bringing Aizawl onto the Indian railway map through its nearest station, Sairang.

Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹8,071 crore, the Bairabi–Sairang rail line is a feat of engineering that navigates Mizoram’s challenging hilly terrain. The route passes through 48 tunnels, 55 major bridges, 87 minor bridges, five road overbridges, and six road underbridges. Among the engineering highlights is a bridge that rises to a height of 114 metres, taller than Delhi’s iconic Qutub Minar by 42 metres. Adding cultural significance, the tunnels are adorned with local artworks that reflect Mizo heritage and traditions.

Officials emphasized that the project, part of the Central government’s Act East policy, is more than just an infrastructure development. It is expected to bring multiple benefits, including enhanced trade opportunities, improved inter-state travel, and a major boost to tourism in the region. “Through this project, Mizoram, long deprived of railway service due to its difficult geographical conditions, has now been gifted with direct connectivity close to Aizawl,” a railway official said.

Experts believe that this rail link will not only make travel easier but also spur socio-economic development. Raj Basu, convenor of the Association for Conservation of Tourism, noted that increased accessibility will attract more visitors from West Bengal and beyond. He highlighted Mizoram’s reputation as a safe, welcoming destination with strong women-led entrepreneurship, especially in homestays, which is drawing all-women tourist groups to the state.

Currently, Mizoram is connected to Kolkata only by air and road. With this new railway line, the “Land of Blue Mountains” is poised to emerge as a more accessible and attractive destination, paving the way for stronger tourism and cross-border opportunities.

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