Aurora in Thailand? Green glow stuns at Kaeng Krachan

PHETCHABURI – A striking green glow resembling the northern lights appeared in the night sky above Phanoen Thung mountain in Kaeng Krachan National Park on Sunday (1 November), coinciding with the reopening of the popular tourist destination after a three-month closure.

National park officials captured images of the unusual green light above the Phanoen Thung viewpoint in Phetchaburi province, within the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The sighting came on the first night of the 2026 tourist season, when visitors were once again allowed to access the mountain and camp overnight. The area had been closed from 1 August to 31 October to allow ecological recovery and ensure visitor safety during the rainy season.

A similar phenomenon was recorded in 2023. At the time, Wimut Wasalai, an academic representative of the Thai Astronomical Society, explained that the green glow was likely caused by lights from squid-fishing boats in the Gulf of Thailand reflecting off clouds.

He said the large number of squid-fishing vessels operating in the gulf could produce enough green light to illuminate clouds, making the glow visible from elevated locations such as Phanoen Thung.

Phanoen Thung is among Phetchaburi’s popular natural attractions, known for its morning sea of mist, mountain scenery and rich forest ecosystem. The reopening is expected to attract visitors seeking cooler weather and camping opportunities towards the end of the year.