Chiang Mai to Become Sustainable Tourism Destination Through Network Collaboration on Route Design
Thailand's Tourism Authority is designing sustainable tourism routes across Chiang Mai's 18 districts to elevate products and services to international standards. The initiative aims to position the province as a green destination while str
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is advancing the Chiang Mai Prototype project to elevate tourism products and services in Chiang Mai province to international sustainability standards. Ms. Oibhlap Sripirm, Director of Tourism Products at TAT, announced that the authority will organize a "Sustainable Tourism Route Design for Chiang Mai Province" workshop to gather input and foster collaboration among partner networks from all 18 districts of the province.
TAT aims to drive Thailand's tourism industry toward Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs), strengthening the nation's competitive position as a sustainable destination across social, economic, cultural, and environmental dimensions. The authority will develop and add value to tourism products and services in the prototype area through a Sustainable Product Prototype process, while enhancing the quality and capabilities of businesses in the supply chain to meet both national and international sustainability standards.
Chiang Mai was selected for this prototype initiative due to its diverse tourism resources, distinctive Lanna identity, solid infrastructure, and regional connectivity. The province has been recognized by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its handicrafts and folk arts, and is developing into a Smart City through international partnerships.
TAT collaborates with partner networks including STGs STAR (Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating), the Thailand Tourism Awards, and CF-Hotels (Carbon Footprint Hotels) to establish international standards. The initiative focuses on creating sustainable tourism routes, raising awareness, and marketing them to attract quality-conscious travelers while expanding the prototype model into a new green destination for Thailand.
The workshop attracted 68 representatives from all 18 districts including Mueang, Samoeng, Sankampaeng, Santhisuk, Maeo-on, Kalyanaiwattana, Doisaket, Sarnphi, Omkoi, Maechaem, Chiang Dao, Wianghaeng, Chiangdao, Johmthong, Maerim, Maeai, Maewang, and Maetaeng, along with relevant government agencies.
Participants proposed sustainable tourism products and services based on principles of self-care, environmental respect, and community responsibility. Selection criteria align with Sustainable and Regenerative Tourism concepts, including commercial readiness, connections to major attractions, and offerings that reflect local identity, lifestyle, culture, and wisdom while creating valuable experiences and positive impacts on communities, society, and the environment.
