Toompang Archeological Site: The Archeological Learning Center for Public

03Nov 2023 by Krittayot Ritthijak

Sustainability and Stewardship

The Toompang Archaeological Site is a public historical and natural heritage landscape of cultural significance for Walailak University. It serves as an educational and historical resource, offering a rich cultural experience. It encompasses local flora and fauna, including local vegetation and indigenous birds. The Toompang Archaeological Site is open to students, scholars, and the general public interested in visiting, free of charge to all areas, every Monday to Friday from 08:30 AM to 04:30 PM.

The site is guided by students who have completed a young archaeologist program, offering tours in three languages: Thai, English, and Chinese. Additionally, visitors can download the AR Toompang application to study the archaeological structure of Toompang’s history.

Furthermore, the 3D Laser Scanner technology is used to collect archaeological data, creating an online platform for learning about history. This initiative aims to make the Toompang Archaeological Site accessible in a new format amid the changing social context. The AR Toompang Archive Application or the website https://3d.wu.ac.th can be used for free to access this information, which is the collaborative effort involves the Center of Cultural and Sports Promotion, the Bachelor of Science Program in Multimedia Technology, Animation and Game, and The 12th Regional Office of The Arts Department, Nakhonsithamarat.

In 2022, Walailak University conducted a groundbreaking ceremony at the learning center on arts and culture. This building was constructed to be a center for learning about art and culture of the upper Southern Thailand. It focuses on research, the transfer of knowledge, and the preservation of ravishing Thai traditions, thus elevating the archaeological sites within the university’s vicinity into living cultural learning centers. The process involves all stakeholders and is disseminated through modern technology, encouraging ongoing and sustainable learning about art and culture.

In the same year, Walailak University began presenting the Toompang Archaeological Site through AR Toompang technology. This service is available to students, organizations, and the public interested in visiting. Additionally, an annual merit-making ceremony has been held for over a decade. It took place on March 11, 2022, based on the belief that the Toompang Archaeological Site was once a religious center for both Brahmanism and Buddhism. The ceremony includes religious rituals and volunteer activities to clean the site, promoting a sense of responsibility for the preservation of this archaeological treasure.

Moreover, a database of local flora was created at the Toompang Archaeological Site, featuring plants with QR codes for additional online information. The surrounding forested area has been developed into a nature study trail, allowing visitors to learn about the variety and utilization of local plants.

In the fiscal year 2022, the government allocated a budget of 39.99 million baht to Walailak University for the construction of the “Walailak Abode of Culture,” the learning center on arts and culture in the southern region. This center has the goal of becoming an educational hub for students and the general public, offering formal and informal education as well as lifelong learning opportunities. It serves as a platform for academic and cultural activities, enhancing students’ life skills and providing recreational experiences in various natural and cultural settings.

The center aims to foster aesthetic appreciation and a deeper understanding of human values by showcasing the diverse arts and cultures of southern Thailand. It utilizes modern technology to present this rich heritage, drawing inspiration from the architectural design of the ancient Toompang and the historical and cultural traditions of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Starting from the fiscal year 2023, this learning center will be accessible to the public free of charge. It aligns with Walailak University’s fourth mission, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting cultural and artistic traditions, making the university a community center and a societal role model. This initiative is consistent with Walailak University’s approach to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities. Additionally, it serves as a hub for experiential learning and is expected to become a prominent tourist attraction, contributing to the development of the local community and Nakhon Si Thammarat province.

Finally, there is Walailak Botanic Park, a nature enthusiast’s haven featuring the iconic Bota Sky Tower. This colossal tower serves as a prominent landmark, offering an opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural heritage landscape. However, the Bota Sky Tower is more than just a tourist attraction; it also functions as a nature study trail, introducing visitors to the rich diversity of native and rare plants in Tha Sala District. As part of the commitment to lifelong learning outlined in SDG4: Quality Education, this trail is open to all.

Exploring the offerings that WU has meticulously cultivated over the years promises an enchanting natural encounter. While ascending the tower, visitors will encounter a wide array of native flora and fauna coexisting harmoniously within marshes and hardwood forests.

At the pinnacle of the sky tower, guests will have the privilege of witnessing various native bird species soaring through the sky, including white-rumped shamas, swallows, mynas, and more. The surrounding forest is home to an array of native animals, from cows to reptiles and lizards.

In addition to the captivating wildlife, visitors will be awe-inspired by the vast forest featuring protected tree species, including Siamese rosewood, teak, Burmese rosewood, and more.