Chiang Mai rallies to spruce up the old city ahead of UNESCO assessment

 | Mon 30 Mar 2026 13:29 ICT
With just 50 days on the clock, Chiang Mai Governor Ratapon Naradit led a mass volunteer effort yesterday around the moat area to prepare the city for UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage assessment, scheduled for June 2026.

Joining the governor at Chang Phueak Gate were Provincial Administrative Organisation President Pichai Lertpong-adisom, government officials, royal volunteer representatives, private sector figures and residents. Together they cleaned, collected rubbish, pruned trees and repainted walls and shopfronts along the city’s four main gates — Chang Phueak, Tha Pae, Chiang Mai and Suan Prung — as well as throughout the surrounding moat area.

Key temples were also included in the beautification drive: Wat Chiang Man, Wat Umong, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Jet Yod and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The aim is to present the historic quarter as clean, well-maintained and befitting an international cultural heritage destination.

All preparation work must be completed by 19th May, ahead of the UNESCO inspection team’s arrival the following month.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​