BANGKOK, Thailand – The Cabinet has approved the submission of documents to UNESCO proposing Wat Arun Ratchawararam’s central pagoda for inclusion on the World Heritage Tentative List. The nomination, titled “The Central Pagoda of Wat Arun Ratchawararam: Icon of Rattanakosin,” is scheduled to be submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre in Paris by the end of April 2025.
The nomination presents Wat Arun’s central pagoda as a unique example of Thai Buddhist architecture that represents both national identity and cultural exchange within Asia. Developed from earlier pagoda forms seen during the Ayutthaya period, the structure evolved in the Rattanakosin era into a distinctive architectural style defined by intricate design, balanced proportion, and refined craftsmanship.
Thailand is putting forward the temple under UNESCO’s cultural heritage criteria (i) and (ii), which address both creative achievement and cultural interchange. If accepted, the proposal will be added to the agenda for the upcoming World Heritage Committee General Assembly, expected between June and July this year.
The Ministry of Culture has directed the Fine Arts Department to provide technical support to Wat Arun to ensure the site complies with the requirements for future full inscription. Preparations will include conservation planning and coordination with the temple and local authorities.
Public engagement and data collection are also being carried out to support the nomination. The final Nomination Dossier will include input from researchers, heritage professionals, and local communities. (NNT)
